cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
mGluR6 Transcripts in Non-neuronal Tissues

To study mGluR6 expression, the authors investigated two transgenic mouse lines that express enhanced green fluorescent protein (GFP) under control of mGluR6 promoter. In retina, GFP was expressed exclusively in all ON bipolar cell types, either uniformly across all cells of this class (line 5) or in a mosaic (patchy) fashion (line 1). In brain, GFP was found in certain cortical areas, superior colliculus, axons of the corpus callosum, accessory olfactory bulb, and cells of the subcommissural organ. Outside the nervous system, GFP was seen in the corneal endothelium, testis, the kidney's medulla, collecting ducts and parietal layer that surround the glomeruli, and B lymphocytes. Furthermore, RT-PCR showed that most tissues that expressed GFP in the transgenic mouse also transcribed two splice variants of mGluR6 in the wild-type mouse. The alternate variant was lacking exon 8, predicting a protein product of 545 amino acids that lacks the 7-transmembrane domains of the receptor. In cornea, immunostaining for mGluR6 gave strong staining in the endothelium, and this was stronger in wild-type than in mGluR6-null mice. Furthermore, calcium imaging with Fura-2 showed that application of L-AP4, an agonist for group III metabotropic glutamate receptors including mGluR6, elevated calcium in endothelial cells.
Sexually transmitted infections among pregnant heroin- or cocaine-addicted women in treatment: the significance of psychiatric co-morbidity and sex trade

Psychiatric co-morbidity and sex trade were tested as correlates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among 76 pregnant heroin- or cocaine-dependent women. Participants were recruited from a drug treatment programme and attended a clinician-administered assessment including the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV (SCID-IV-TR) and self-report questionnaires about lifetime histories of sex trade and STIs (i.e. gonorrhoea, syphilis, chlamydia, herpes, genital warts or trichomonas). Lifetime and six month rates of STIs were 53.9% and 18.4%, respectively. The majority of women also had lifetime histories of psychiatric co-morbidity (61.8%) and/or sex trade (60.5%). Participants with psychiatric co-morbidity (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.9; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.3-11.6) and/or sex trade (AOR 3.2; 95% CI 1.1-9.5) were more likely to report STIs during their lifetime compared with those without such histories while controlling for age, education and race/ethnicity. Results suggest that as many as one-in-five pregnant heroin- or cocaine-dependent women in treatment have one or more STIs that are concurrent with their pregnancy and may contribute to risk for contracting HIV and pregnancy complications; psychiatric co-morbidity and/or sex trade were associated with greater STI risk. Findings underscore the importance of identifying and addressing co-morbid psychiatric disorders and sex trade behaviour in this population.
Multiple development in strip and circular chromatography.

Abstract Some conditions have been derived from which it appears that in multiple development the distance of separation between two spots on strip and circular chrormatograms should increase or decrease according as the sum of their R F values is less than or greater than unity. When the sum equals unity, there should be no change. Experimental evidence has been put forward in support of the above generalizations. The deviations of the theoretical from the experimental values are largely due to the changes in R F values in successive developments.
Big effects from tiny vessels: imaging the impact of microvascular clots and hemorrhages on the brain.

Improvement in clinical imaging technologies has made it possible to resolve small, previously invisible lesions in the brains of elderly humans. Initially, these lesions were called silent strokes because they do not present with dramatic acute symptoms like major stroke. It was later shown that these small lesions have cognitive consequences and are a contributing factor to age-related mental decline and dementia.1–3 In analogy to large strokes, these microscopic lesions are thought to be caused by disruptions of small blood vessels. The lesions are small simply because the territory covered by a small vessel is limited in size. There are 2 categories of vascular events that could lead to these lesions. First, occlusions of small vessels can prevent blood flow from reaching a region of brain tissue leading to ischemic damage. In addition, microscopic deposits of red blood cell lysis products found in postmortem human studies suggest that microvessels might also hemorrhage.4 Understanding the causes and effects of these small lesions is complicated by the small size of the vessels thought to be involved, resulting in a limited number of animal models that reflect the human pathology. Recent advances in optical tools, both in chronic, high-resolution imaging with multiphoton microscopy and in the innovative use of laser ablation and photothrombosis to generate targeted vascular lesions, have enabled controlled studies of how clotting or hemorrhage of small vessels affect the health and function of brain cells.5,6 Femtosecond laser ablation, in which a high-power laser pulse can be used to selectively ionize a portion of a blood vessel even when it is below the surface of brain tissue, can be used to generate both occlusions and hemorrhages in microvessels (Figure 1).5 Combined with 2-photon imaging in transgenic animals that express fluorescent proteins in …
The Keap1 BTB/POZ dimerization function is required to sequester Nrf2 in cytoplasm.

Transactivation of phase II detoxification enzymes and antioxidant proteins is mediated by the Cap'N′Collar transcription factor, Nrf2, which is sequestered in the cytoplasm by the actin-binding protein Keap1. Mutation of a conserved serine (S104A) within the Keap1 BTB/POZ domain disrupts Keap1 dimerization and eliminates the ability of Keap1 to sequester Nrf2 in the cytoplasm and repress Nrf2 transactivation. Disruption of endogenous Keap1 dimerization using BTB/POZ dominant negative proteins also inhibits the ability of Keap1 to retain Nrf2 in the cytoplasm. Exposure to an electrophilic agent that induces Nrf2 release and nuclear translocation disrupts formation of a Keap1 complex in vivo. Collectively, these data support the conclusion that Keap1 dimerization is required for Nrf2 sequestration and transcriptional repression. Furthermore, exposure to inducing agents disrupts the Keap1 dimerization function and results in Nrf2 release.
Organization of cerebellar cortex secondary to deficit of granule cells in weaver mutant mice.

This study deals with some consequences of the early postnatal abnormalities of cerebellar Bergmann glial fibers and granule cell neurons. (1) Cerebellar size is mildly reduced in heterozygous weaver (+/wv) mice and markedly reduced in homozygotes (wv/wv), but the pattern of fissures is essentially normal. Comparison with other mutants displaying small cerebella suggests that cell proliferation rate in the external granular layer is a key deteminant of cerebellar cortical folding. (2) Mossy fiber terminals differentiate on schedule despite the reduced number and abnormal positions of granule cells. However, many of them enter the modified molecular layer, and as noted especially in noninbred wv/wv mice one to two years old, form synapses with dendrites of aberrant granule cells. Where granule cells are absent, mossy fibers form more than the normal number of synapses with dendrites of Golgi type II neurons. (3) Purkinje cells are only mildly affected by the disorder of neighbouring cells. Their dendrites grow abnormally into the territory occupied by external granule cells, reach the external surface, and may turn inward. They form few tertiary branches. Dendritic spines are present in profusion and show membrane thickenings akin to normal postsynaptic elements. Although they receive no axonal contacts, the spines persist, enveloped by glial processes, for at least two years. Apart from the absence of parallel fiber contacts, afferent and intrinsic axons form the normal classes of synaptic connections with Purkinje cells. (4) Interneurons of the molecular layer are generated on schedule. At the time of their earliest recognition, they reside in the external granular layer, where they receive synaptic contacts from climbing fibers and other interneurons. In the absence of parallel fibers, interneurons differentiate in situ but their dendrites are abortive and randomly oriented. Growth of their dendrites, in contrast to that of Purkinje cell dendrites, appears to be markedly influenced by the organization of the local cellular milieu.
Not) yet another policy for scalable video delivery to mobile users

In this work, we provide a methodology to analyze optimal adaptation policies for scalable video delivery in mobile environments. Typically, download policies for adaptive video are tuned to very specific system settings. The aim of this work is not to propose a new policy, but instead to understand how the optimal policy changes according to the operating environment and the system characteristics of a mobile video client. Armed with this insight, we can design or adapt policies for SVC adaptive video delivery for a broader range of settings.Using a semi-Markov decision process (SMDP), we find optimal video retrieval policies for a single user, subject to different limits on buffer capacity and different wireless environments. We apply a decision tree classifier to the output of the SMDP to derive simple approximate policies for 55 scenarios and use these to derive high-level rules on the relationship between optimal download policy and the underlying channel settings. For example, we show that the optimal policy is more conservative in slowly varying channels, and becomes more greedy in fast changing channels, and that instantaneous channel state is relevant to the decision-making process only in a setting with a very limited buffer capacity and slow-varying channel.
Inhibition of protein kinase A fails to alter mast cell adenosine responsiveness.

Adenosine activates adenylate cyclase and phospholipase C in mast cells and potentiates stimulated mediator release. To determine whether activation of adenylate cyclase is necessary for the effects of adenosine on the mast cell secretory process, a specific inhibitor of cAMP-dependent protein kinase, KT5720, was used. Antigen and adenosine each induced a rapid increase in mast cell cAMP-dependent protein kinase activity within 30 s. Preincubation with KT5720 (100 nM–10 μM) suppressed cAMP-dependent protein kinase activity and inhibited antigen-stimulated β-hexosaminidase and leukotriene C4 releases. Adenosine retained its ability to potentiate β-hexosaminidase release in antigen- and A23187-stimulated cells even in the presence of complete cAMP-dependent protein kinase inhibition. Mast cells rendered unresponsive to adenosine-related signals by preincubation with adenosine analogs maintained this hyporesponsiveness after incubation with KT5720. It appears that the abilities of adenosine to augment mast cell degranulation and induced receptor hyporesponsiveness are independent of changes in cAMP.
Diagnostic value of fasting capillary glucose, fructosamine and glycosylated haemoglobin in detecting diabetes and other glucose tolerance abnormalities compared to oral glucose tolerance test

New diagnostic criteria for diabetes mellitus recommend lowering of the fasting plasma glucose to 7.0 mmol/l. In contrast to recommendations of the American Diabetes Association (AA). WHO recommends using the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in clinical practice. In this study, based on OGTT results and WHO 1998 criteria, we determined if measuring fasting capillary glycaemia (FCG) along with fructosamine and/or glycosylated haemoglobin allows the detection of glucose tolerance abnormalities better than FCG alone. OGTT was performed in 538 patients. Serum fructosamine was determined in 480 of the patients, and glycosylated haemoglobin in 234 of the patients. According to WHO 1998 criteria, the patients were divided into groups due to glucose tolerance abnormalities. Fructosamine correlated stronger with 2-h post-load glucose concentrations than with FCG. HbA1c correlated stronger with FCG than with 2-h post-load glucose. Combined use of fructosamine and FCG predicted 2-h post-load glucose better than combined use of FCG and HbA1c. Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses showed that FCG was the best criterion in discriminating diabetes. Combined use of FCG and fructosamine slightly improved the ability to discriminate glucose tolerance abnormalities from normal glucose tolerance. FCG is the most effective predictor of 2-h post-load glucose and the best criterion for discriminating diabetes and other glucose tolerance abnormalities from normal glucose tolerance. Fructosamine is a potentially useful post-load glycaemia index. OGTT is irreplaceable in identification of patients with high post-load glycaemia.
Serine protease inhibitors (SERPINS): where mechanism meets medicine.

Recent research expands our understanding of the biology of an important class of enzyme inhibitors.
Application of wavelet analysis for monitoring the hydrologic effects of dam operation: Glen Canyon Dam and the Colorado River at Lees Ferry, Arizona

Wavelet analysis is a powerful tool with which to analyse the hydrologic effects of dam construction and operation on river systems. Using continuous records of instantaneous discharge from the Lees Ferry gauging station and records of daily mean discharge from upstream tributaries, we conducted wavelet analyses of the hydrologic structure of the Colorado River in Grand Canyon. The wavelet power spectrum (WPS) of daily mean discharge provided a highly compressed and integrative picture of the post-dam elimination of pronounced annual and sub-annual flow features. The WPS of the continuous record showed the influence of diurnal and weekly power generation cycles, shifts in discharge management, and the 1996 experimental flood in the post-dam period. Normalization of the WPS by local wavelet spectra revealed the fine structure of modulation in discharge scale and amplitude and provides an extremely efficient tool with which to assess the relationships among hydrologic cycles and ecological and geomorphic systems. We extended our analysis to sections of the Snake River and showed how wavelet analysis can be used as a data mining technique. The wavelet approach is an especially promising tool with which to assess dam operation in less well-studied regions and to evaluate management attempts to reconstruct desired flow characteristics. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Bayesian model of group polarization

Abstract The group polarization hypothesis states that individual attitudes tend to become more extreme, “more polarized,” as a result of group discussion. The hypothesis was developed as a generalization of the well-known risky shift effect: the fact that individuals tend to make riskier decisions after group discussion than before group discussion. The group polarization hypothesis is supported by much experimental evidence. The principles of Bayesian decision theory are used to model how individual attitudes will change after group discussion. The model predicts the group polarization effect. Thus (1) it is shown that the group polarization effect can be viewed as arising from individual rationality, (2) a model of how much individual attitudes change after group discussion is derived.
Programmability in DDD Pacing

Safe and reliable DDD pacemakers with multiple programming capabilities have now been developed. Certain programmable parameters are basic, including mode, voltage (or current) output, pulse width, sensitivity and refractory periods in each chamber. Upper rate response as well as low rate settings and A-V delays are equally important. In certain models, the ability to program the blanking period has proven quite useful. The interrelationship between all these functions will assure the smooth overall performance of these sophisticated devices.
Need for treatment and New York's revised commitment laws: an empirical assessment.

In recent years, psychiatric and law journals have been concerned with the nature and impact of “the new commitment laws.” The emphasis in these laws is alleged to be on patients’ civil liberties, alternatives to hospital commitment, and community based treatment resources (Shore, 1978; Cockerham, 1981; Gove et al., 1982). These laws appear to be informed in part by the following elements of the 1972 American Psychiatric Association position statement: (1) most persons who need hospitalization should be admitted voluntarily; (2) community based outpatient facilities should be used in place of inpatient hospital admissions as far as possible; (3) involuntary care should be reserved for persons who may harm themselves or others; and (4) involuntarily committed persons who are hospitalized should be provided full legal rights of due process. Despite these aims, which have not always been incorporated perfectly in the new laws, the most recent theoretical literature indicates that the criteria for involuntary hospitalization and due process are so vague that they are ultimately unworkable and ill-advised (Diamond, 1974; Arons, 1977; Schoenfeld, 1977; Toews et al., 1980; Langman, 1980; Shah, 1981a, 1981b; Wexler, 1981). Furthermore, most of the empirical studies of the impact of the new laws indicate, first, that a sizable portion of involuntarily committed patients are not admitted to inpatient care following the mandatory observation period; second, that involuntary commitments continue to outnumber voluntary admissions; third, that patient recidivism is increasing; and finally, as Hiday (1983, p, 114) recently put it, “there is still lingering deference to psychiatric recommendation, commitment without evidence of facts of dangerousness, and passive or nonadversary counsel.” These generalizations may be drawn from the Gudeman et al. (1976) study of Hawaii patients; Luckey & Berman’s (1979, 1981) studies in Nebraska; Miller & Fiddleman’s (1981, 1982) and Hiday’s (1982) studies in North Carolina; Haupt & Ehrlich’s (1980) study of Pennsylvania patients; Lipsitt & Lelos’ (1981) study in Massachusetts, Shore et al. (1981) study of Oregon patients, and Hiday’s (1983) recent review of studies in mental health law. New York State’s revised commitment laws have not yet been empirically
OPTIMAL FUEL REPLACEMENT IN REACTIVITY LIMITED SYSTEMS.

Abstract As a step in the development of an optimal fuel replacement scheme for a large pressurized water reactor, it was shown that the operating parameters and constraints for individual fuel subassemblies can be expressed in terms of one time dependent parameter, burnup, as long as the gross neutron flux distribution does not change radically with time. The required constraints on the empirical model are therefore adequately satisfied for the intuitively attractive case of scatter (or Roundelay) refueling. As a result, it was possible to investigate analytically a “quaziequilibriumr” cycle for both direct replacement and shuffle refueling. Whereas direct replacement showed little advantage over the equilibrium cycle, shuffling of the fuel to a more optimum configuration at each fuel replacement cycle indicated potential savings of several hundred thousands of dollars a year for a 1000 MWe pressurized water plant.
Japanese and US engineering careers compared

The author was looking forward to hearing the presentations given by James T. Clemons, ATT now, all he owns are made in Japan. All he once owned were engineered in America; all he now owns are engineered in Japan. He buys the Japanese products because they are better; in some cases, he couldn't buy American because his country has lost the ability to manufacture competitive products.
Changes During the Last Half Century in Student Personnel Services

(1959). Changes During the Last Half Century in Student Personnel Services. Religious Education: Vol. 54, No. 2, pp. 94-96.
Torsade de pointes due to quinidine: observations in 31 patients.

We performed a mail solicitation and obtained the records of 31 patients with documented torsade de pointes (TDP) due to quinidine. All 31 patients had heart disease: ischemic = 11 patients (36%), rheumatic = five patients (16%), hypertensive = four patients (13%), cardiomyopathic = four patients (13%), other = seven patients (22%). Quinidine was administered to these patients for the following reasons: atrial fibrillation or flutter = 22 patients (71%), ventricular premature beats = six patients (19%), ventricular or supraventricular tachycardia = three patients (10%). The 31 patients were receiving quinidine, 650 to 2400 (mean 1097) mg/day, and 14 patients had serum quinidine levels of 1.4 to 10.6 (mean 3.7) μg/ml. TDP occurred within 1 week of initiation of quinidine therapy in 23 (74%) of the patients. Twenty-eight (90%) of the 31 patients were receiving digoxin, and 5 (24%) of 21 patients had hypokalemia at the time of TDP. Off of quinidine therapy, corrected QT (QTc) intervals in 24 patients ranged from 390 to 580 (mean 470) msec and were prolonged in 17 patients (71%). On quinidine therapy, QTc intervals in 23 patients ranged from 390 to 630 (mean 510) msec and were prolonged in 21 patients (91%). In summary, patients with TDP due to quinidine usually had heart disease complicated by atrial fibrillation, were receiving digoxin, and were receiving moderate dosages of quinidine for less than 1 week prior to TDP. Approximately two thirds of patients with TDP due to quinidine had long QT intervals while off of quinidine.
Echo-based screening of rheumatic heart disease in children: a cost-effectiveness Markov model

AbstractObjectives:To project the cost-effectiveness of population-based echo screening to prevent rheumatic heart disease (RHD) consequences.Background:RHD is a leading cause of cardiovascular mortality and morbidity during adolescence and young adulthood in low- and middle-per capita income settings. Echocardiography-based screening approaches can dramatically expand the number of children identified at risk of progressive RHD. Cost-effectiveness analysis can inform public health agencies and payers about the net economic benefit of such large-scale population-based screening.Methods:A Markov model was constructed comparing a no-screen to echo screen approach. The echo screen program was modeled as a 2-staged screen of a cohort of 11-year-old children with initial short screening performed by dedicated technicians and follow-up complete echo by cardiologists. Penicillin RHD prophylaxis was modeled to only reduce rheumatic fever recurrence-related exacerbation. Quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and soc...
Assessment of the knowledge of graduating American dental students about the panoramic image

Abstract The objective of this study was to assess the capability of graduating dental students to identify the causes of undiagnostic panoramic images and to interpret anatomic landmarks on panoramic films. Seventeen dental schools were represented by 311 students. A radiology faculty member at each institution completed a questionnaire that addressed lecture time and experience provided to students in panoramic radiography. The faculty member administered a test instrument comprised of several panoramic radiographs that demonstrated one or more labeled anatomic structures, technical errors, or projection artifacts and multiple choice questions that addressed each entity. The mean percentage correct for the tested population on the entire test instrument was 72.9%. The mean percentage correct for questions addressing anatomy, error and artifact recognition, and error correction was 84.0%, 61.4%, and 45.2%, respectively. Factors that significantly ( p
The discourse function of floated quantifiers

Abstract English floated quantifiers (FQs) all , both , and each , although associated with a subject nominal, occur after modals, have , and be . This paper argues that these expressions serve as exhaustive discourse partitives, evoking a universal representation of an accessible discourse group, usually central to the discussion, and that in FQ position, this function is localized to the predicate. Evidence includes: distributional parallels with overt partitives and intensive reflexives and interpretive patterns for nonfloated and floated all and the interpretation of FQs with indefinite conjoined hosts, etc. The localized interpretation of FQs, triggering a re-evaluation of the subject with respect to the predicate, is shared by overt partitives and intensive reflexives in float position.
Distribution of neuropeptide Y-containing perikarya and axons in various neocortical areas in the macaque monkey.

The laminar and areal distribution of neuropeptide Y (NPY)-containing perikarya and their processes was analyzed immunocytochemically in Brodmann's neocortical areas 17, 18, 7, 22, 3, 4, 24, and 9 (Walker's area 46) in seven macaque monkeys. Most NPY-containing cells are distributed in two broad bands in layers II–III and V–VI in all areas; relatively few cells can be found in layer I and virtually none in layer IV. Numerous NPY-containing cells are situated in the white matter immediately subjacent to the cortical gray. Severalfold regional and individual differences in the density of NPY-positive somata were found in supra- and infragranular layers. However, the interareal variations in the density of NPY-containing somata do not conform to a universal pattern, because of either individual variability or inherent difficulties in standardizing immunocytochemical labeling. In contrast, the laminar differences in the distribution of NPY-containing axons among cortical areas are consistent in all animals. In general, primary sensory and motor areas have a lesser density of NPY-containing axons than association and limbic areas. Within this general pattern, area-specific laminar segregation of NPY-containing axons occurs. The regional differences in the distribution of NPY-like immunoreactivity in the neocortex may reflect innate characteristics of local neuronal circuits serving specialized functions.
Dissolved vanadium on the Louisiana Shelf: effect of oxygen depletion

Abstract New measurements of dissolved vanadium in waters of the Louisiana Shelf affected by outflow from the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River system are presented here. These measurements complement previously published estuarine vanadium data and allow a reexamination of prior conclusions. In estuarine and coastal regions it appears that the most significant vanadium depletions occur in association with reducing conditions. These reducing conditions are frequently driven by anthropogenic eutrophication. Sedimentary inputs also appear to be a factor in affecting the flux of vanadium to the ocean in certain environments. In contrast to previous results we find no compelling evidence of biological removal of vanadium from estuarine surface waters. Given the uncertainties, it is difficult to accurately estimate the natural flux of dissolved vanadium from the land to the open ocean. Nonetheless, increasing coastal anthropogenic eutrophication could substantially alter the natural fluvial vanadium input as well as possibly shift the primary locus of oceanic vanadium removal.
The Greek enigma: Is development of the Aegean orogene dominated by forces related to subduction or obduction?

Abstract Numerous papers have been published in the past decade which attribute the Neogene geodynamic evolution of the Aegean to subduction by the African plate (or by a platelet of African affinity). New data put these hypotheses in doubt. The Aegean orogene is characterized by (1) narrow and relatively shallow, sediment-starved “trenches”; (2) a volcanic arc of widely spaced, small volume, high-K calc-alkaline complexes with ages decreasing toward the “trenches” (arc-tholeiitic and low-K calc-alkaline suites are absent); (3) a highly seismic upper lithosphere, which is separated from a non-descript Benioff zone by an aseismic wedge of asthenolithic material (deformation in the upper lithosphere is dominated by N-S extension, and that in the Benioff zone by NE-SW compression), and (4) extensive magmatism with shoshonitic and high-K calc-alkaline affinity in the stretched (submerged) hinterland (hinterland volcanism significantly predated that of the volcanic arc and decreases southwestward, towards the later trenches.) The model proposed for the Cenozoic geodynamic evolution of the Aegean orogene includes subduction in the Late Cretaceous Eocene, strike-slip deformation (and oblique subduction) in the Oligocene, and obduction (as a result of the emplacement of a mantle diapir along the paleosubduction zone) in the Neogene and Quaternary. This model supports an earlier observation ∗ that obduction (caused by mantle diapirism) may represent the latest process in the geodynamic evolution of a Mediterranean-type collision zone.
Left Ventricular Assist Device–Associated Infections

The left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is a mechanical pump that supplements or replaces the function of a damaged left ventricle. Although LVAD support is associated with improved survival and quality of life, infectious complications remain a major limitation. The authors examine the epidemiology of LVAD-associated infections and review current diagnostic, treatment, and management strategies. Novel evidence-based approaches to infection prevention remain critical because the number of patients receiving long-term mechanical support continues to burgeon.
String Like Solutions in the Skyrme Model

Abstract The equations of motion of the Skyrme model with a mass term are studied, and a variety of new solutions found, including a string-like solution having cylindrical symmetry, and a slab-like solution. In addition, it is demonstrated that the hedgehog (skyrmion) solves the equations. The new solutions are classically unstable, having vanishing topological winding density. The string-like solutions may be relevant to nuclear physics since one may speculate that these solutions are related to the QCD string. The string tension of the cylindrical solution is found to be approximately 0.85 GeV/fm. Although the slab-like solutions appear less experimentally accessible, they might be relevant to high-energy nuclear collisions. The slab-like solution has a counterpart in 2 + 1 dimensional Skyrme models, where it appears as a string-like object. In this context, this solution may have applications in solid-state physics.
An improved scattering potential for He*(2 3S) + Ar

Abstract Differential scattering experiments in crossed atomic beams in the energy range 0.5–2.8 kcal mol -1 (0.02–0.12 eV) are used to derive an optical potential for He * (2 3 S) + Ar based on a highly constrained, realistic model potential function. The potential gives a good account of other cross section and rate data.
Race, Ethnicity, Language, Social Class, and Health Communication Inequalities: A Nationally-Representative Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND: While mass media communications can be an important source of health information, there are substantial social disparities in health knowledge that may be related to media use. The purpose of this study is to investigate how the use of cancer-related health communications is patterned by race, ethnicity, language, and social class. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: In a nationally-representative cross-sectional telephone survey, 5,187 U.S. adults provided information about demographic characteristics, cancer information seeking, and attention to and trust in health information from television, radio, newspaper, magazines, and the Internet. Cancer information seeking was lowest among Spanish-speaking Hispanics (odds ratio: 0.42; 95% confidence interval: 0.28-0.63) compared to non-Hispanic whites. Spanish-speaking Hispanics were more likely than non-Hispanic whites to pay attention to (odds ratio: 3.10; 95% confidence interval: 2.07-4.66) and trust (odds ratio: 2.61; 95% confidence interval: 1.53-4.47) health messages from the radio. Non-Hispanic blacks were more likely than non-Hispanic whites to pay attention to (odds ratio: 2.39; 95% confidence interval: 1.88-3.04) and trust (odds ratio: 2.16; 95% confidence interval: 1.61-2.90) health messages on television. Those who were college graduates tended to pay more attention to health information from newspapers (odds ratio: 1.98; 95% confidence interval: 1.42-2.75), magazines (odds ratio: 1.86; 95% confidence interval: 1.32-2.60), and the Internet (odds ratio: 4.74; 95% confidence interval: 2.70-8.31) and had less trust in cancer-related health information from television (odds ratio: 0.44; 95% confidence interval: 0.32-0.62) and radio (odds ratio: 0.54; 95% confidence interval: 0.34-0.86) compared to those who were not high school graduates. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: Health media use is patterned by race, ethnicity, language and social class. Providing greater access to and enhancing the quality of health media by taking into account factors associated with social determinants may contribute to addressing social disparities in health.
Electronic Specific Heat of Dilute Alloys

The incoherent emission and re-absorption of phonons at impurity sites in dilute alloys is shown to give rise to a contribution to the electronic specific heat ${C}_{e}$ that in a free-electron model is proportional to the resistivity. This formalism is then generalized to a Bloch-electron model and is applied to the case of dilute AgPd and AgCd alloys. This mechanism is shown to account adequately for the observed discontinuity in the derivative of ${C}_{e}$ with respect to electron concentration.
Stromal progenitor cells promote leukocyte migration through production of stromal-derived growth factor 1α: a potential mechanism for stromal progenitor cell–mediated enhancement of cellular recruitment to wounds

Abstract Background/Purpose Stromal progenitor cells (SPC) enhance tissue repair in a variety of injury models. However, the mechanisms by which SPCs facilitate tissue repair remain poorly understood. We hypothesized that SPC-enhanced tissue repair is, in part, because of SPC-mediated recruitment of circulating cells to areas of tissue injury. To test this, we examined the migration of leukocytes in response to SPC in vitro. Methods Leukocyte migration was assessed in response to SPC, SPC + transforming growth factor (TGF)- β 1, or SPC + AMD3100 using a Transwell assay system (Corning, distributed by Fisher Scientific, Pittsburgh, PA). Supernatants were collected from lower chambers and analyzed for leukocyte content, leukocyte viability, and stromal-derived growth factor (SDF)-1 α concentration. Results Stromal progenitor cells increased leukocyte migration compared to media alone (450 ± 70 vs 112 ± 17 cells/ μ L; P β 1 resulted in a 36% increase in leukocyte migration and correlated with an increase in SDF-1 α production. Treatment with AMD3100 resulted in inhibition of leukocyte migration. Conclusions Stromal progenitor cells promote leukocyte migration, and this appears to be mediated through SDF-1 α production. The SPC production of SDF-1 α may be modulated by other cytokines present in the microenvironment during wound healing. Together, these observations provide a potential mechanism by which SPC may augment healing through enhanced recruitment of inflammatory cells and tissue progenitor cells to areas of tissue injury.
Pulsed gradient NMR diffusion measurements with a microcomputer

Abstract We have adapted a microcomputer for NMR diffusion measurements using the pulsed field-gradient method, making possible reduced experimenter workload, higher precision, and use of samples with faint spin echoes. We describe hardware implementation and software design.
ALTERNATIVE CONCEPTIONS OF WISDOM: AN ONION‐PEELING EXERCISE

Contexualistic and integrative approaches to the concept of wisdom are discussed. The evolution of the concept of wisdom from an independent construct of intelligence to a component of intelligence (i.e., practical intelligence) is presented. It is argued that wisdom can be operationalized as the ability to integrate cognition and affect. In other words, both logical, rational and affective, experiential modes of knowing are recognized as equally valid and taken into consideration in social reasoning contexts. A methodological illustration of the integrative approach is presented in the form of an ongoing study investigating real‐world problem solving in adolescents as well as young, middle‐aged, and older adults. Implications for adult education are discussed.
The Effect of a Diuretic (Hydrochlorothiazide) on Tear Production in Humans

The effect of an orally administered diuretic, hydrochlorothiazide, on tear production in 11 normal young human subjects (five men and six women, 18 to 35 years old) was measured in a single-masked study. Schirmer tests with topical anesthetic showed a significant (P = .02) decrease in basal aqueous tear production on days when these subjects were taking the diuretic. The average decrease was 2.1 mm of wetting in five minutes.
Static universality class implied by the critical exponents of Gd

Structural characteristics and available critical exponent measurements fail to distinguish clearly between Ising and Heisenberg critical behavior in Gd. In this context we present a new perturbed \ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{\gamma}-angular correlation measurement of the exponent \ensuremath{\beta} which appears to resolve the ambiguity. From our result, \ensuremath{\beta}=0.399(16), we conclude that Gd is described by Heisenberg critical behavior for reduced temperatures \ensuremath{\epsilon}${g10}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}3}$. This does not exclude crossover to another value for smaller \ensuremath{\epsilon}.
PREDICTING SUICIDAL IDEATION FROM THE RORSCHACH: AN ATTEMPT TO CROSS-VALIDATE.

Abstract This study was an attempt to replicate an earlier study which demonstrated a significant relationship between suicidal ideation and response to the D6 area of Rorschach Card VII. From a population of 299 hospitalized psychiatric patients, 53 Ss had responded to this area. These were matched on a man-to-man basis for age and sex with non-responders. The two groups were closely equated for diagnosis, total number of Rorschach responses and per cent of small detail responses. When compared for the presence of suicidal ideation, the groups were not found to differ significantly. Separate comparisons of sub-groups of schizophrenics, depressives, and neurotics also failed to confirm the prediction.
TRMM observations of the global relationship between ice water content and lightning

[1] This study uses TRMM lightning and radar observations to study the fundamental relationship between precipitation ice mass and lightning flash density. The results indicate that the physical assumptions of precipitation-based charging and mixed phase precipitation development are robust and that on a global scale, the relationship between precipitation ice water path and lightning flash density is relatively invariant between land, ocean and coastal regimes. Hence lightning data may be a useful variable for inclusion in combined space borne algorithms designed to retrieve ice water content.
Arc Flash Calculations for Exposures to DC Systems

Electrical systems with AC voltage have been shown to exhibit arc flash incident energy during faults. Are there arc flash hazards related to dc systems, such as battery banks for UPS or drives, or dc buses used in chemical processes? Methods are available to estimate arc flash energy of ac exposures, but not dc. This paper will show the basic equations for maximum power from a dc arc and the resulting estimated arc flash incident energy. Research is required to find accurate values, but until research is completed, these equations can help the engineer provide a preliminary estimate of the thermal energy values for applying protective clothing for these exposures.
Pollution prevention possibilities for small and medium‐sized industries: Analysis of the WRITE projects

This paper summarizes the results of the Waste Reduction Innovative Technology Evaluation Program (WRITE), an EPA pilot program with six (6) states and one (1) local government, to identify priority needs at the respective governmental level, find promising waste minimization technologies and perform an evaluation to determine performance, pollution prevention (P2) impact and costs. The research concentrated on environmental problems and P2 opportunities for small to medium-sized industries, technology at pilot- or full-scale, and use of voluntary business/state/EPA partnerships. A total of 41 technologies were tested and evaluated. The types of industries and processes included were coating, depainting, electronics, metal plating and finishing, printing, surface cleaning, steel, and a number of miscellaneous categories. Many of the technology applications evaluated were able to list cost savings coupled with reduced or eliminated waste streams. It was found that technology benefits are largely application specific. However, favorable (or even unfavorable) findings for one application can be useful as a beginning for estimating other beneficial uses.
A novel perfusion-based method for cochlear implant electrode insertion.

Abstract A cochlear implant (CI) restores partial hearing to profoundly deaf individuals. CI electrodes are inserted manually in the cochlea and surgeons rely on tactile feedback from the implant to determine when to stop the insertion. This manual insertion method results in a large degree of variability in surgical outcomes and intra-cochlear trauma. Additionally, implants often span only the basal turn. In the present study we report on the development of a new method to assist CI electrode insertion. The design objectives are (1) an automated and standardized insertion technique across patients with (2) more apical insertion than is possible by the contemporary methods, while (3) minimizing insertion trauma. The method relies on a viscous fluid flow through the cochlea to carry the electrode array with it. A small cochleostomy (∼100-150 um in diameter) is made in scala vestibuli (SV) and the round window (RW) membrane is opened. A flow of diluted Sodium Hyaluronate (also known as Hyaluronic Acid, (HA)) is set up from the RW to the SV opening using a perfusion pump that sets up a unidirectional flow. Once the flow is established an implant is dropped into the ongoing flow. Here we present a proof-of-concept study where we used this technique to insert silicone implants all the way to the cochlear apex in rats and gerbils. In light-microscopic histology, the implantation occurred without cochlear trauma. To further assess the ototoxicity of the HA perfusion, we measured compound action potential (CAP) thresholds following the perfusion of HA, and found that the CAP thresholds were substantially elevated. Thus, at this point the method is promising, and requires further development to become clinically viable.
Facilitation of immune function, healing of pressure ulcers, and nutritional status in spinal cord injury patients.

Multiple communicative pathways among nervous, endocrine, and immune systems facilitate physiological immunoregulation. Spinal cord injury (SCI) patients had strikingly decreased natural and adaptive immune responses by 2 weeks post injury. While NK-cell function was decreased, plasma ACTH and urine-free cortisol levels were increased. T cell function and activation were both diminished. With rehabilitation therapy, NK and T function increased; without rehabilitation, NK levels remained depressed. When rehabilitation ceased, NK function decreased. Cervical SCI patients had less NK and T function than thoracic injury patients. SCI patients also had reduced levels of cellular adhesion molecules (CAMs) that participate in immune function and wound healing. SCI patients with pressure ulcers were compared to those without pressure ulcers. LFA-1, VLA-4, and other surface markers were decreased on the lymphocytes of all SCI patients. SCI patients with pressure ulcers had lower CAM levels than did patients without pressure ulcers. Nutritional status was determined by zinc, albumin, and prealbumin levels. SCI patients had decreased albumin levels. Those with pressure ulcers had decreased prealbumin levels and zinc levels.
Problems with the claim of ecotype and taxon status of the wolf in the Great Lakes region.

Koblmuller et al. (2009) analysed molecular genetic data of the wolf in the Great Lakes (GL) region of the USA and concluded that the animal was a unique ecotype of grey wolf and that genetic data supported the population as a discrete wolf taxon. However, some of the literature that the researchers used to support their position actually did not, and additional confusion arises from indefinite use of terminology. Herein, we discuss the problems with designation of a wolf population as a taxon or ecotype without proper definition and assessment of criteria. Koblmuller et al. (2009) wrote ‘The GL wolf is morphologically distinct from both western grey wolves (Canis lupus) and coyotes (Canis latrans) (Nowak 2002)’. However, Nowak (2002) did not draw this conclusion nor did his plots of the first and second canonical variables show this (Nowak 2002: Figures 6 and 8). Nowak’s (2002: Figure 8) could be interpreted as indicating either overlap between western C. lupus and wolves from Michigan or a continuum between the two types. Furthermore, similar analyses by Nowak (2009: Figures 15.1 and 15.2) show complete overlap between Minnesota wolves and western wolves and partial overlap between Michigan wolves and Minnesota and western wolves. Regardless, skull morphology (size and dimensions) is influenced by genetics and environment. Morphological variation is not a definitive indicator of phylogenetic ancestry (and hence taxonomy) or local adaptation (and hence ecotype status) without controlled experimentation. Morphology may indicate ancestry (and be useful in taxonomy—e.g. domestic animal breeds differ in morphology because of ancestry) or environment (and
Parasol and GreenSwitch: managing datacenters powered by renewable energy

Several companies have recently announced plans to build "green" datacenters, i.e. datacenters partially or completely powered by renewable energy. These datacenters will either generate their own renewable energy or draw it directly from an existing nearby plant. Besides reducing carbon footprints, renewable energy can potentially reduce energy costs, reduce peak power costs, or both. However, certain renewable fuels are intermittent, which requires approaches for tackling the energy supply variability. One approach is to use batteries and/or the electrical grid as a backup for the renewable energy. It may also be possible to adapt the workload to match the renewable energy supply. For highest benefits, green datacenter operators must intelligently manage their workloads and the sources of energy at their disposal.In this paper, we first discuss the tradeoffs involved in building green datacenters today and in the future. Second, we present Parasol, a prototype green datacenter that we have built as a research platform. Parasol comprises a small container, a set of solar panels, a battery bank, and a grid-tie. Third, we describe GreenSwitch, our model-based approach for dynamically scheduling the workload and selecting the source of energy to use. Our real experiments with Parasol, GreenSwitch, and MapReduce workloads demonstrate that intelligent workload and energy source management can produce significant cost reductions. Our results also isolate the cost implications of peak power management, storing energy on the grid, and the ability to delay the MapReduce jobs. Finally, our results demonstrate that careful workload and energy source management can minimize the negative impact of electrical grid outages.