cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The thrombin receptor modulates astroglia-neuron trophic coupling and neural repair after spinal cord injury.

Excessive activation of the thrombin receptor, protease activated receptor 1 (PAR1) is implicated in diverse neuropathologies from neurodegenerative conditions to neurotrauma. PAR1 knockout mice show improved outcomes after experimental spinal cord injury (SCI), however information regarding the underpinning cellular and molecular mechanisms is lacking. Here we demonstrate that genetic blockade of PAR1 in female mice results in improvements in sensorimotor co-ordination after thoracic spinal cord lateral compression injury. We document improved neuron preservation with increases in Synapsin-1 presynaptic proteins and GAP43, a growth cone marker, after a 30 days recovery period. These improvements were coupled to signs of enhanced myelin resiliency and repair, including increases in the number of mature oligodendrocytes, their progenitors and the abundance of myelin basic protein. These significant increases in substrates for neural recovery were accompanied by reduced astrocyte (Serp1) and microglial/monocyte (CD68 and iNOS) pro-inflammatory markers, with coordinate increases in astrocyte (S100A10 and Emp1) and microglial (Arg1) markers reflective of pro-repair activities. Complementary astrocyte-neuron co-culture bioassays suggest astrocytes with PAR1 loss-of-function promote both neuron survival and neurite outgrowth. Additionally, the pro-neurite outgrowth effects of switching off astrocyte PAR1 were blocked by inhibiting TrkB, the high affinity receptor for brain derived neurotrophic factor. Altogether, these studies demonstrate unique modulatory roles for PAR1 in regulating glial-neuron interactions, including the capacity for neurotrophic factor signaling, and underscore its position at neurobiological intersections critical for the response of the CNS to injury and the capacity for regenerative repair and restoration of function.
Mechanistic insights into selective oxidation and corrosion of multi-principal element alloys from high resolution and in situ microscopy

Abstract Multiple principal element alloys (MPEAs) have drawn significant recent interest from the metallurgical research community. These novel alloys have the potential to replace traditional alloys with a range of tailored mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and radiation tolerance enabled by complex compositions. The broad alloy design space of MPEAs presents a great opportunity to discover new forms of oxidation and corrosion resistance in extreme environments that break away from conventional alloy design criteria. However, understanding the oxidation and corrosion response of MPEAs can be a challenging task due the complex compositional, structural, and chemical state changes occurring in the oxide or corrosion film and at its interface with the base alloy. This perspective discusses the utility of high resolution and in situ microscopy techniques for revealing unique aspects of MPEA oxidation and corrosion behavior at the atomic and near atomic scales. Challenges of studying oxidation and corrosion response of these alloys and several open questions are presented.
Nrf2-BDNF-TrkB pathway contributes to cortical hemorrhage-induced depression, but not sex differences.

Post-stroke depression, observed in 30-50% of stroke patients, negatively affects quality of life and mortality. The pathogenesis of post-stroke depression is complex, but heightened reactive oxyge...
The 2021 Neurosurgery Match: An analysis of the impact of virtual interviewing and other COVID-19 related changes

Abstract Given safety concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic, residency programs suspended away rotations in 2021 and the interview process transitioned to a virtual video format. In this study, we assessed the extent to which these changes affected match outcomes and if medical school ranking, international graduate status, or affiliation with a home neurosurgery program affected these outcomes. A cross-sectional analysis of neurosurgery match data from 2016-2021 was performed, and match outcomes were assessed based on matched program geography and program research ranking. Chi square tests were performed to identify significant differences between 2021 and 2016-2020 match results. A total of 1324 confirmed matched neurosurgery residents were identified from 2016-2021 (2016-2020: n=1113, 2021: n=211). There was no statistically significant difference in the rates of matching at a home program, within state, or within region between 2021 and 2016-2020 in the overall cohort. Proportions of international graduates and students without home programs among matched applicants were unchanged in 2021. In 2021, students from top 25 medical schools were less likely to match within their state or region (p
Mediodorsal thalamus lesions in rats impair radial-arm maze performance in a cued environment

In a previous experiment (Stokes & Best, 1988), we showed that rats lesioned in the mediodorsal nucleus of the thalamus performed poorly on a radial maze placed in a visually deprived environment. The present experiment was designed to assess performance of similarly lesioned rats on the radial maze when extramaze cues were plentiful. Sixteen rats were trained on the radial maze; 7 then received electrolytic lesion of the mediodorsal thalamic nucleus. Despite excellent preoperative acquisition of the task, postoperative performance was severely impaired in all animals given lesions. These animals made more errors, and made errors earlier in the session, than did control animals. Furthermore, animals with lesions developed stereotyped patterns of responding on the maze, as had animals in the previous study. Thus, we replicated our previous findings with respect to the effects of lesions of the mediodorsal nucleus, and extended their generality to a more usual, visually enriched testing environment. Our results indicate that the impairment in maze performance subsequent to mediodorsal thalamus lesion is nonspecific, affecting memory secondarily.
Do clinicians conceptualize DSM-IV disorders hierarchically?

Objective All classification systems of psychopathology use hierarchical categories. The purpose of the two studies in this article was to test whether clinicians think hierarchically about mental disorders. Method Seventy six clinicians were asked to sort 67 diagnostic categories into groups using different instruction sets, either to make progressively larger and smaller groups of diagnoses (Study 1) or to place similar groups next to each other (Study 1 and Study 2). Results Clinicians’ sortings of mental disorders had a hierarchical structure regardless of the methodology, profession, expertise, and instructional set used. Conclusions Given that all modern diagnostic systems have been hierarchical, it is important to know that clinicians' thinking is also hierarchical.
The impact of climate, CO2, nitrogen deposition and land use change on simulated contemporary global river flow

[1] We investigated how climate, rising atmospheric CO2 concentration, increasing anthropogenic nitrogen deposition and land use change influenced continental river flow over the period 1948–2004 using the Community Land Model version 4 (CLM4) with coupled river transfer model (RTM), a global river routing scheme. The model results indicate that the global mean river flow shows significant decreasing trend and climate forcing likely functions as the dominant controller of the downward trend during the study period. Nitrogen deposition and land use change account for about 5% and 2.5% of the decrease in simulated global scale river flow, respectively, while atmospheric CO2 accounts for an upward trend. However, the relative role of each driving factor is heterogeneous across regions in our simulations. The trend in river flow for the Amazon River basin is primarily explained by CO2, while land use change accounts for 27.4% of the downward trend in river flow for the Yangtze rive basin. Our simulations suggest that to better understand the trends of river flow, it is not only necessary to take into account the climate, but also to consider atmospheric composition, carbon-nitrogen interaction and land use change, particularly for regional scales.
Quotas as options

Quota licenses are options. Their price is given by expected discounted future value, which hangs on the possibility that the quota may bind. A number of auxiliary administrative details of quota systems are also analyzed in this context. The presence of use-it-or-lose-it requirements and of restrictions on rate of usage of the annual quota can be seen as attempts to offset the implied protection on below-limit imports. They are shown to be inefficient. Recognition of the option valuation of quota licenses is rich with suggestions for future work on evaluation of quotas and comparisons with alternative schemes for protection.
The interaction of natural and synthetic polyanions with mammalian nuclei. I. DNA synthesis

Abstract Isolated nuclei or soluble chromatin prepared from rat liver are incapable of serving in vitro as an effective template for the enzymatic synthesis of DNA with exogenous DNA polymerase. These template restrictions on nuclear DNA may be overcome by the presence of certain specific polyanions such as heparin, polyaspartic acid, and dextran sulfate. In contrast, similar types of polyanions such as chondroitin sulfate, casein, polygalacturonic acid, and hyaluronic acid are without effect. This marked specificity of certain polyanions for activating the template properties of nuclei and chromatin is not simply related to the ionic strength of the system but is a function of the molecular weight and charge distribution of the polyanion. Polyaspartic acid (20 000 mol. wt.) is a very effective activator of soluble chromatin, while the 5600 mol. wt. polymer is not effective. Some of these polyanions are potent inhibitors of DNA polymerase, thus producing a biphasic curve in the activation of the DNA template properties of nuclei and soluble chromatin.
Isolation and characterization of coumaphos-metabolizing bacteria from cattle dip.

Coumaphos, an organophosphate insecticide, is used for tick control in cattle dipping vats along the U.S.-Mexican border. Recently, several vats (problem vats) have experienced a loss of efficacy because of microbial degradation. Three morphologically distinct bacteria (designated B-1, B-2, and B-3) that metabolized coumaphos were isolated from enrichment cultures that were initiated from problem vat dip material. In general, amino acids, pyrimidines, and acetate supported growth; carbohydrates were not utilized. Only B-2 required growth factors. In resting cell experiments, coumaphos was hydrolyzed to diethylthiophosphoric acid and chlorferon by all three isolates. Chlorferon was subsequently metabolized by B-1 and B-2 to α-chloro-β-methyl-2,3,4-trihydroxy-trans-cinnamic acid. Only B-1 produced additional metabolites. Experiments with [benzo ring-labeled U-14C]coumaphos or chlorferon demonstrated that B-1 was capable of both mineralizing and incorporating into biomass the aromatic portion of the molecule. The majority of label, however, was recovered in the form of soluble products, including α-chloro-β-methyl-2,3,4-trihydroxy-trans-cinnamic acid. Although B-1 had the capacity to use chlorferon as a carbon source at low concentrations (100 μg/ml), visible growth at higher concentrations (1,000 μg/ml) was not observed. The addition of 400 μg of chlorferon per ml to B-1 cells in the mid-log phase of growth resulted in complete inhibition of growth, while the addition of 100 to 200 μg of chlorferon per ml resulted in partial inhibition. The growth of B-2 and B-3 was inhibited by 100 μg of chlorferon per ml. These data suggest that, although B-1 and, to a lesser extent, B-2 and B-3 are responsible for the primary degradation of coumaphos, other organisms in the enrichment culture may play a secondary role in coumaphos degradation by removing inhibitory products of coumaphos metabolism.
Center Pivot Design Capacities in Eastern Colorado

Design system capacities were developed for center pivot sprinklers irrigating corn in the Central Great Plains by simulating irrigations for 60 yr of climatic data collected at Akron, CO. The modified Penman equation for estimating potential ET for alfalfa as a reference crop was calibrated with lysimeter and meteorological data collected at the University of Nebraska, Scottsbluff Station. The Akron, Colo., data were adjusted to represent an irrigated environment by correlating with data collected at a weather station between three center pivot sprinkler systems. The design system capacities developed from the simulation model allow for the depletion of available soil water. An empirical procedure for determining the net system capacity for ET n e t as affected by allowable depletion levels is presented in Table 3.
Topography‐ and fracture‐driven fluid focusing in layered ocean sediments

[1] Upward fluid flow is often invoked to explain the occurrence of methane hydrate in ocean sediments, whereas one-dimensional compaction models predict downward flow relative to the seafloor. Explaining the presence of upward flow requires a more complete compaction model. We develop a two-dimensional model of compaction-driven flow to quantify the focusing of pore fluids by topography and fractures when sediments have anisotropic permeability. We use a bulk anisotropic permeability to capture the effects of lithologic layering when the grid spacing is too coarse to resolve individual layers. Even small slopes (10°) in bedding planes produce upward fluid velocity, with focusing becoming more effective as slopes increase. Additionally, focusing causes high excess pore pressure to develop below topographic highs, promoting high-angle fracturing near the crest. Magnitudes of upward pore fluid velocity are much larger in fractured zones, particularly when the surrounding sediment matrix is anisotropic in permeability. Enhanced flow of methane-bearing fluids from depth provides a simple explanation for preferential accumulation of hydrate under topographic highs.
Minority Health Perceptions in the Lower Mississippi Delta: A Grounded Theory Study Using PhotoVoice Methodology

The Lower Mississippi Delta (LMD) region has a large minority population with concentrations of poverty and health disparities much higher than other parts of the country. The purpose of this project was to assess the health perceptions of minority women living in the LMD using a combination of PhotoVoice and journal reflections. After an initial interview, 10 women were provided digital cameras and asked to take photographs that reflected the health of their communities. A final interview was conducted to glean more information from the women about their photographs. Seven Black women and two Latinas completed the study. The photographs, journal reflections, and transcripts collected during the study were analyzed using grounded theory principles. The core category identified by the researchers was Hope for a Healthy Future. The participants were optimistic about the future of the LMD and were striving to attain the Ideal Healthy Community, which consisted of five pillars: Access to Healthy Food, Nutrition Education, Physical Activity, Safety and Cleanliness, and Role Models. Participants identified barriers and facilitators to each of these pillars in their communities. The primary facilitator to health was Spiritual, Familial, and Community Ties. The primary barrier to health was Resistance to Change. Overall, striving towards the Ideal Healthy Community was a source of participants’ Hope for a Healthy Future. Findings from this study can be used to further understand the health-related needs of minorities in the LMD and to advocate for positive change in LMD communities.
Advances in AC-DC power conversion topologies for More Electric Aircraft

The purpose of the paper is to review and compare the ac-dc electric power conversion topologies from the perspective of More Electric Aircraft (MEA) utilization. Advancements in power electronics encompass many evolving technologies including power semiconductor devices, microprocessors or digital signal processors (DSPs), thermal management, EMI and corona mitigation techniques, and mechanical packaging. The weight, volume, cost, and performance are critical design criteria, as is achieving other important requirements and specifications such as power quality, EMI/EMC, reliability, vibration, and shock for more electric aircraft applications. In this paper, an introduction will be made to the traditional versus modern aircraft power distribution systems illustrating the need of ac-dc power conversion systems. Then, the various power conversion topologies for more electric aircraft will be reviewed.
Multicultural Issues and Education Relevant to School Psychology Practice

Appreciation and sensitivity toward individual differences and cultural diversity are critical attributes for school psychologists as they consult, co-ordinate and collaborate with a wide range of support personnel, teachers, administrators, parents, and the students themselves. School psychologists are uniquely positioned to encourage activities that not only reduce prejudice and stereotyping, but promote the contributions of culturally diverse groups. In order to effectively serve in these roles, school psychologists must have a multicultural knowledge base and prerequisite skills. This paper presents a framework for understanding ethnic socialization processes and the development of culturally-biased attitudes and actions. Finally, school-based intervention plans to strengthen multicultural relationships are reviewed.
Hawala: The Terrorist's Informal Financial Mechanism

Abstract : Since 9/11 investigations into the al-Qaeda financial network have led to several notable successes in the United Slates and Europe. Much of this achievement in the United States has resulted from strengthening the financial investigatory powers of domestic law enforcement agencies and coordinating them through the Treasury Department's new Foreign Terrorist Asset Tracking Center. In other countries, the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force, for example, is helping to coordinate the tracking of terrorist funds through the global banking system and cracking down on countries that fail to improve transparency and regulation. Financial investigators tracking al-Qaeda assets rely heavily on data and paper trails from commercial banks and financial regulators in pursuing and investigating leads. Unfortunately, these efforts have achieved little success to date in reaching the core of the al-Qaeda financial network. The problem is that many of the organization's funding mechanisms -- like its cells -- are small and inconspicuous, often using a traditional Muslim method of money exchange called "hawala." In essence, hawala is a transfer or remittance from one party to another, without use of a formal financial institution such as a bank or money exchange and is, in this sense, an "informal" transaction. There are several other common aspects to hawala. First, in most cases, hawala transactions go across international lines, such as with worker remittances to their home countries. Second, hawala usually involves more than one currency, although, again, this is not absolutely required. Third, a hawala transaction usually entails principals and intermediaries. To accommodate requests of the principals, the intermediaries usually take financial positions. Later, much as in the case of conventional banking practices, these transactions will be cleared among the units to balance their books.
Continuation in quasilinearization

A continuation method is described for extending the applicability of quasilinearization to numerically unstable two-point boundary-value problems. Since quasilinearization is a realization of Newton's method, one might expect difficulties in finding satisfactory initial trialpoints, which actually are functions over the specified interval that satisfy the boundary conditions. A practical technique for generating suitable initial profiles for quasilinearization is described. Numerical experience with these techniques is reported for two numerically unstable problems.
The preparation of vicinal difluoroolefinic carbonyl compounds and their application to the synthesis of difluororetinal analogs

Abstract The preparation of a novel vicinal difluorinated retinal analog is described. The key difluoroolefinic intermediate in the synthesis was prepared by the reaction of DAST with ethyl acetoacetate.
USC: MUC-4 test results and analysis

The University of Southern California is participating, for the first time, in the message understanding conferences. A team consisting of one faculty and five doctoral students started the work for MUC-4 in January 1992. This work is an extension of a project to build a massively parallel computer for natural language processing called Semantic Network Array Processor (SNAP).
HEPATIC STEATOSIS IS INDEPENDENTLY ASSOCIATED WITH HYPERREACTIVE BLOOD PRESSURE RESPONSE ON THE EXERCISE STRESS TEST

Background: Hepatic steatosis (HS) is associated with insulin resistance, the metabolic syndrome, subclinical inlammation and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Blood pressure hyperreactivity during peak exercise is associated with an increased risk of developing hypertension and with increased cardiovascular risk. Clinical predictors of hyperreactive response (HRR) are not well established. We studied the association between hepatic steatosis (HS) and HRR.
Floodplain hydraulics in a glaciated bedrock river valley

Data and one dimensional, unsteady theory document the average, seasonal, and diurnal hydraulics of an unconfined aquifer in the surficial floodplain deposit of the Neponset River, which flows through a glaciated bedrock valley in eastern Massachusetts. The 20 m thick silty sand deposit has a permeability of 1.4 × 10−11 m2, a porosity of 0.37, a 600 m halfwidth, and an infiltration coefficient of 0.39. The steady water table is parabolic with a 0.60 m value at the valley wall that implies an average 33-year travel time across the floodplain in response to an average recharge rate of 7.0 × 10−9 m/s. Seasonal hydraulics are governed by the floodplain porosity and marked by periodicity of the river (0.48 m amplitude) and recharge (1.9 × 10−8 m/s amplitude), which maintain flow from the floodplain into the river year round. Attenuation of the diurnal fluctuations suggests that the specific yield ranges from 0.05 to 0.14, and yields horizontal flow excursions of 1 m scale near the riverbank.
Local Electrogram Changes in Response to a High-Voltage Intracardiac Shock in Humans

Electrogram Changes Following ICD Shocks. Introduction: Transvenous defibrillators may have difficulty sensing ventricular fibrillation following an unsuccessful shock. This study was undertaken to characterize the changes that occur in intracardiac electrograms following a defibrillator shock that may contribute to the failure to redetect arrhythmias. Methods and Results: Unipolar and bipolar electrogram recordings were made during sinus rhythm before and following monophasic and biphasic test shocks delivered in random order through a single lead defibrillator system in 15 patients. An additional 14 patients received only a biphasic shock. Electrogram amplitude, dV/dt, and activation recovery time were determined. Following biphasic shocks, unipolar electrogram amplitude decreased by a mean of 19.6% and the bipolar amplitude by a mean of 20.8% (P = NS). The mean dV/dt in the unipolar recordings decreased by 30.7% and in the bipolar recordings decreased by 33.0% (P = NS). Time constants for recovery were approximately 60 seconds. Reduction in dV/dt was greater when the shocking coil was closer to the distal sensing electrode. There was no significant influence of shock waveform (monophasic vs biphasic), recording type (unipolar vs bipolar), or clinical variables on the change in electrogram characteristics. Conclusion: Changes in intracardiac electrograms following defibrillator shocks through transvenous leads are seen with shocks delivered in sinus rhythm and may be related to the proximity of the shocking coil to the distal sensing electrode.
Generalized Poincaré-Hopf Theorem for Compact Nonsmooth Regions

This paper presents an extension of the Poincare-Hopf theorem to generalized critical points of a function on a compact region with nonsmooth boundary, M, defined by a finite number of smooth inequality constraints. Given a function F: M → Rn, we define the generalized critical points of F over M, define the index for the critical point, and show that the sum of the indices of the critical points is equal to the Euler characteristic of M. We use the generalized Poincare-Hopf theorem to present sufficient (local) conditions for the uniqueness of solutions to finite-dimensional variational inequalities and the uniqueness of stationary points in nonconvex optimization problems.
Political Involvement in “Mobilized” Society: The Interactive Relationships Among Mobile Communication, Network Characteristics, and Political Participation

In recent years, mobile communication has emerged as a channel for political discourse among network ties. Although some celebrate new possibilities for political life, others are concerned that it can lead to network insularity and political detachment. This study examined how mobile-mediated discourse with strong ties interacts with characteristics of those ties to predict levels of political participation. Findings revealed that mobile-based discourse is positively associated with political participation, but that this relationship is moderated by the size and heterogeneity of one’s network. Participation increases with use of the technology in large networks of like-minded individuals, but declines with use of the technology in homogeneous networks that are small. Implications and future research considerations are offered in the discussion.
Multistage MIMO approach to interference cancellation

In this work multistage MIMO equalization and source separation method is adapted to operate as a successive interference cancellation (SIC) scheme to improve the quality of received signal in a high interference environment. In a 3-stage setup, after capturing the signal of interest (SOI), interference is estimated and cancelled at second stage. After cancellation of the interference, the last stage of equalization recaptures the SOI with better quality due to higher SINR at its input signals. We have shown that using this method with successful equalization at the first stage, we are able to achieve approximately 10 dB cancellation gain when interferer is as strong as signal(SIR=0) and SNR is 35 dB. A Rayleigh fading iid channel is used for simulation.
A Model for the Spectral Albedo of Snow. II: Snow Containing Atmospheric Aerosols

Abstract Small highly absorbing particles, present in concentrations of only 1 part per million by weight (ppmw) or less, can lower snow albedo in the visible by 5–15% from the high values (96–99%) predicted for pure snow in Part I. These particles have, however, no effect on snow albedo beyond 0.9 μm wavelength where ice itself becomes a strong absorber. Thus we have an attractive explanation for the discrepancy between theory and observation described in Part I, a discrepancy which seemingly cannot be resolved on the basis of near-field scattering and nonsphericity effects. Desert dust and carbon soot are the most likely contaminants. But careful measurements of spectral snow albedo in the Arctic and Antarctic paint to a “grey” absorber, one whose imaginary refractive index is nearly constant across the visible spectrum. Thus carbon soot, rather than the red iron oxide normally present in desert dust, is strongly indicated at these sites. Soot particles of radius 0.1 μm, in concentrations of only 0.3 pp...
On mechanically induced degradation of fiber-reinforced hyperelastic materials

A finite strain model for the mechanical degradation of composite materials with multiple families of fine reinforcing fibers is developed and studied. At any instant of time the matrix material may or may not be degrading with all, some, or none of the interpenetrating fibers also undergoing degradation. This multi-component description of damage is governed by coupled differential equations when more than one damage mechanism is active. These differential equations, and the threshold values of the strain invariants that activate the damage process, emerge naturally from a general framework that describes the response of dissipative systems under a maximum rate of dissipation postulate. In this context we then study uniaxial loadings when either a constant stretch or a constant force is suddenly applied to the composite. It is found that the initial type of degradation (e.g. degrading fibers in a non-degrading matrix) may transition to an alternative type of degradation (e.g. the degradation of all constituents) at some finite time into the process. A rich variety of material and load-dependent transition possibilities are systematically uncovered using a combination of asymptotic and numerical techniques. The resulting macroscopic behavior as the material weakens involves relaxation and creep phenomena that are formally similar to viscoelastic material behavior in solids even though the underlying processes are significantly different. Describing implants and tissue constructs containing biodegradable polymers is one possible area of application.
Specific G protein activation and μ-opioid receptor internalization caused by morphine, DAMGO and endomorphin I

Previous studies have shown that the agonist [D-Ala2, N-Me-Phe4, Gly-ol5]enkephalin (DAMGO) but not morphine induces mu-opioid receptor internalization [Arden, J.R., Segredo, V., Wang, Z., Lameh, J., Sadee, W., 1995. J. Neurochem. 65, 1636-1645]. In the present study we investigated the relationship between internalization of the mu-opioid receptor and the specific G proteins activated following treatment with morphine, DAMGO and endomorphin I (Tyr-Pro-Trp-Phe-NH2) (a putative endogenous mu-opioid receptor agonist) in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells. Endomorphin I and DAMGO, but not morphine, caused mu-opioid receptor internalization. Morphine, DAMGO and endomorphin I each activated Gi1 alpha/Gi2 alpha, Go alpha and Gi3 alpha to a similar extent, but not Gq alpha/G11 alpha or Gs alpha in HEK membranes. Therefore, the three ligands tested differed in their ability to internalize mu-opioid receptors even though they were similar in activating individual G proteins.
Marijuana use and cervical HPV/neoplasia

Recent research suggests that marijuana use may be positively associated with risk of human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal cancer, and the immunomodulatory effects of cannabinoids are considered a possible mechanism. Were marijuana to have systemic effects on HPV-associated tumorigenesis it would be of major concern, and might be especially harmful in immunologically susceptible populations such as HIV-positive women. We studied the effect of marijuana use on cervical HPV natural history and cervical squamous intraepithelial lesions (SIL) among HIV-positive and HIV-negative women in the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS), a large prospective cohort study. HPV DNA testing by PCR and Pap smears were conducted semi-annually. Prevalent HPV and cervical SIL were analyzed using logistic regression with GEE. Persistence of HPV was analyzed using Cox regression. Of the 3,499 women in the WIHS, 1,414 reported ever using marijuana. There were no associations between HPV prevalence and either current (OR = 0.98 95% CI = 0.90–1.07), frequent (current daily use: OR = 0.98 95 CI = 0.90–1.07), or sustained (daily use for more than 3 years: OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.90–1.19) marijuana use, controlling for age, race, HIV status, CD4 cell count, number of sexual partners in the last 6 months, tobacco use and cervical treatment. Nor were there effects on prevalence of SIL, or on the persistence of cervical HPV infection. Results were similar among HIV-negative and HIV-positive women. Our data do not support an effect of marijuana on cervical HPV infection, persistence or risk of cervical dysplasia. If there is an effect of marijuana use on oral HPV-associated tumorigenesis, it may be a local effect.
Quantitation of epinephrine- and glucagon-sensitive adenylate cyclases of rat liver implications of alterations of enzymatic activities during preparation of particulate fractions and membranes

Abstract Stimulated and basal adenylate cyclase activities from livers of young and old rats were lower in particulates than in homogenates. Particulates were compared to homogenates by reconstituting the suspensions to the volume of the homogenates from which they were derived; enzyme activities in paired homogenates and particulates therefore reflected the same amounts of membrane-bound enzyme. The magnitude of the losses of hormone-sensitive activities in particulates was dependent on the age and sex of the animals and the concentrations of hormone. Particulates from 3-month-old animals showed glucagon-( (1 · 10 −5 M) and epinephrine-sensitive (1 · 10 −4 M) activities which were 67 and 78% of homogenate activities, respectively; particulates from 24-month-old animals had activities relative to homogenates of 55% for glucagon and as low as 32% for epinephrine. The glucagon dose vs. response curve in particulates and membranes showed maximal activity at 1 · 10 −7 M glucagon while in homogenates activity increased linearly with increasing glucagon concentrations up to 1 · 10 −5 M. Losses of basal and anion-stimulated activities were similar at both ages. Fluoride and azide stimulations relative to basal activities were greater in particulates than in homogenates, while relative epinephrine activity was lower in particulates, suggesting qualitative alteration of adenylate cyclase during preparation of particulates. These studies show that adenylate cyclase activity in rat liver is presently best quantitated in homogenates and suggest caution in comparisons of enzyme activities based on particulates or membranes prepared from animals of differing physiologic states.
Control and Measurement of attosecond pulses

In this paper attosecond measurement relies on a phase "gate". The phase of attosecond pulses is easily manipulated because attosecond pulses arise in an interferometric process - the interferometer formed by an electron being removed by the atom, propagating in the laser field and re-colliding with the parent ion where the interference occurs. Slightly modifying (gating) the phase of the electron along the trajectory encodes spatial and temporal information. We also introduce a method for producing transient optical elements for attosecond pulses and high harmonics. For control we use a slightly stronger, yet still very weak control beam. We produce a diffraction grating in the nonlinear medium itself and we observe the diffracted radiation
Difference Tests for Distributions of Ratings.

Three exact probability tests, counterparts of t tests for single sample, independent samples, and dependent samples, are described for data obtained from ratings on m scales by a single rater or on a single scale by n raters. These tests, which involve computing a difference ratio (D), require fewer assumptions and restrictions than the t test or nonparametric procedures such as the Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxen tests. Tables of one-tail discrete probabilities for 2 to 7 rating categories and 2 to 10 raters or scales are provided. Formulas for computing z scores for estimating the one-tail normal curve probabilities associated with each difference ratio (D1, D2, and D3) and with the means of a sample of such ratios, are also given.
Thrombosis Prevention without Anticoagulation.

The ultimate goal for hematologists, cardiologists, and vascular medicine physicians is to find agents that prevent thrombosis without creating defects in hemostasis (the cessation of bleeding). To a great extent, this notion was considered an impossible dream. However, recent advances in understanding of the plasma contact activation, kallikrein/kinin, renin angiotensin, and other vasoregulatory systems make these dreams seem feasible. Presently, all anticoagulants prevent thrombosis by interfering with hemostasis. Physicians in clinical medicine are presently excited with the recent approvals by national regulatory agencies of several target-specific oral anticoagulants (TSOACs). These agents make the lives of patients who need anticoagulants much easier. However, the targets of the TSOACs, factors IIa and Xa, still increase bleeding risk. In fact, some of these agents are associated with specific organ sensitivity to bleeding not seen with warfarin or heparin-derived agents. Furthermore, although in late development, antidotes to these agents are not present and bleeding such as into the brain can be catastrophic. We can do better than the current array of agents in practice and about to be approved for clinical practice for thrombosis protection. In recent years, investigators have learned that many proteins influence thrombosis risk without altering the hemostatic system. For example, proteins like heme oxygenase, C-reactive protein, glutathione peroxidase-3 deficiency, peptidylarginine deiminase 4, and myeloid-related protein-14 (S100A9) alter arterial or venous thrombosis propensity in mice without influence on hemostasis (1–5). Additionally, there are several targets in the contact activation (CAS), kallikrein/kinin (KKS), and renin angiotensin (RAS) systems that influence thrombosis without causing bleeding. Better understanding of the mechanism(s) by which these proteins influence venous and arterial thrombosis may very well allow for additional targets to be recognized for the development of safer therapies. The next frontier in drug development to prevent or treat thrombosis is to translate the mechanistic observations on proteins that alter thrombosis risk without bleeding into therapeutic agents.
Electron Transit Time in Time-Varying Fields

The equations of electron acceleration, velocity, and displacement in time-varying fields are derived for the temperature-limited and the space-charge-limited diodes. These are written in a form making it possible to construct universal curves of electron displacement as a function of transit angle. Separate curves represent the direct-current and alternating-current components of electron displacement, the total displacement being obtained by adding the two components. The curves greatly expedite the solution of electron transit-time problems and aid in visualizing the physical processes at work.
Transcript and protein expression profile of PF11_0394, a Plasmodium falciparum protein expressed in salivary gland sporozoites

Plasmodium falciparum malaria is a significant problem around the world today, thus there is still a need for new control methods to be developed. Because the sporozoite displays dual infectivity for both the mosquito salivary glands and vertebrate host tissue, it is a good target for vaccine development. The P. falciparum gene, PF11_0394, was chosen as a candidate for study due to its potential role in the invasion of host tissues. This gene, which was selected using a data mining approach from PlasmoDB, is expressed both at the transcriptional and protein levels in sporozoites and likely encodes a putative surface protein. Using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and green fluorescent protein (GFP)-trafficking studies, a transcript and protein expression profile of PF11_0394 was determined. The PF11_0394 protein has orthologs in other Plasmodium species and Apicomplexans, but none outside of the group Apicomplexa. PF11_0394 transcript was found to be present during both the sporozoite and erythrocytic stages of the parasite life cycle, but no transcript was detected during axenic exoerythrocytic stages. Despite the presence of transcript throughout several life cycle stages, the PF11_0394 protein was only detected in salivary gland sporozoites. PF11_0394 appears to be a protein uniquely detected in salivary gland sporozoites. Even though a specific function of PF11_0394 has not been determined in P. falciparum biology, it could be another candidate for a new vaccine.
Treatment of Hypertension in the Presence of Coexisting Medical Conditions

Treating hypertension reduces morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, hypertension often exists in patients with other medical conditions. In these patients, the selection of an antihypertensive agent is often influenced by the presence of the coexisting condition. Conversely, the treatment of the coexisting medical condition may be influenced by the presence of hypertension. Given the vast array of antihypertensive medications available today, appropriate treatment of both hypertension and coexisting conditions can be achieved with careful selection of medications. This review discusses factors to consider when treating elderly patients with hypertension with the following coexisting conditions: dyslipidaemia, glucose intolerance, sexual dysfunction, cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease, renal disease and neuropsychiatric disorders. Hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism and various states of high cardiac output may cause hypertension. These conditions should be identified, since they are often treatable with subsequent resolution of the hypertension.
Application of ICA to realistically simulated 1H‐MRS data

Introduction 1H-MRS signals from brain tissues capture information on in vivo brain metabolism and neuronal biomarkers. This study aims to advance the use of independent component analysis (ICA) for spectroscopy data by objectively comparing the performance of ICA and LCModel in analyzing realistic data that mimics many of the known properties of in vivo data. Methods This work identifies key features of in vivo 1H-MRS signals and presents methods to simulate realistic data, using a basis set of 12 metabolites typically found in the human brain. The realistic simulations provide a much needed ground truth to evaluate performances of various MRS analysis methods. ICA is applied to collectively analyze multiple realistic spectra and independent components identified with our generative model to obtain ICA estimates. These same data are also analyzed using LCModel and the comparisons between the ground-truth and the analysis estimates are presented. The study also investigates the potential impact of modeling inaccuracies by incorporating two sets of model resonances in simulations. Results The simulated fid signals incorporating line broadening, noise, and residual water signal closely resemble the in vivo signals. Simulation analyses show that the resolution performances of both LCModel and ICA are not consistent across metabolites and that while ICA resolution can be improved for certain resonances, ICA is as effective as, or better than, LCModel in resolving most model resonances. Conclusion The results show that ICA can be an effective tool in comparing multiple spectra and complements existing approaches for providing quantified estimates.
Effects of 4 Classes of Cardiovascular Drugs on Ventricular Function in Dogs with Mitral Regurgitation

Background:There have been few trials in which dogs with mitral regurgitation (MR) have been treated with various cardioactive drugs to determine effects on left ventricular (LV) function. Hypothesis:Four classes of cardiovascular drugs may improve LV function in dogs with MR without increasing MR. Animals:Nine mature dogs were included in the study. Methods:MR was produced in 9 dogs. Five months later under butorphanol narcosis, parameters of LV function and left atrial dimension (LAD) were monitored by LV micromanometry and echocardiography/Doppler. Dogs were given (in random order) enalaprilat, nitroglycerine, ouabain, milrinone, and placebo. Results:Nitroglycerin produced no significant change; milrinone and ouabain increased contractility; ouabain decreased heart rate; and there was evidence that enalaprilat and milrinone decreased LAD. Milrinone and ouabain decreased isovolumetric contraction time and therefore the time available for MR. There was no evidence that a positive inotrope increased MR despite increasing LV contractility and stroke volume. Conclusion and Clinical Importance: This study contradicts the hypotheses that (1) strengthening the left ventricle may increase MR and (2) treatment of MR (even before symptoms of heart failure develop) may decrease LAD. It is reasonable that strengthening the force of LV contraction should increase the driving pressure for MR; however, this effect did not appear to increase MR. Although some investigators believe that treating dogs with MR with afterload reducers and decreasing hindrance to ejection of blood from the LV to aorta may lengthen life by decreasing MR, there did not appear to be a reduction in MR, at least in response to the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor.
Factors Associated with the Inappropriate Use of Antimicrobials

Antimicrobial resistance continues to grow and antimicrobial use in food animal production and to a lesser extent in human patients is under fire. Much of the criticism has to do with the misapplication of these drugs in both settings. Research indicates that patients, food animal producers, physicians and veterinarians have all played a part in misusing antimicrobials, often because of mistaken beliefs. This paper reviews this research and introduces a theoretical perspective, the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), which broadens our understanding of the motivations for misuse. In particular this approach shows that individuals making decisions about antimicrobial use take into account social pressures from and a sense of obligation to significant others in their social networks. Our own work summarized in this paper indicates that both feedlot veterinarians and feedlot managers' antimicrobial decisions are influenced by both expectations from and obligations to a variety of actors in the feedlot network (other veterinarians, feedlot clients, consumers, pharmaceutical companies, and regulatory bodies). Generally across 4 circumstances of antimicrobial use (for acutely sick cattle, chronically-sick cattle, at-risk cattle, high-risk cattle), it is largely the perception that peers and clients expect feedlot veterinarians to use antimicrobials and feedlot veterinarians sense of obligation to these groups that have the most influence on their decisions to recommend antimicrobials. Based on these findings, the question of engaging in changing the choices made by those working with food animals must start with those who influence the decision to proscribe or use antimicrobials. As our data come from the United States and may be unique relative to other countries, these efforts should begin by ascertaining who influences these decisions. The next step is to then change the beliefs of these significant others.
Gallium incorporation kinetics during gas source molecular beam epitaxy growth of GaN

Abstract The kinetics of gallium incorporation during gas source molecular beam epitaxy (GSMBE) growth of GaN are investigated for varying substrate temperature (Ts) and incident ammonia flux (JNH3). Incident Ga atoms eventually either (1) react with NH3 to form GaN, (2) accumulate on the film surface, or (3) desorb. For an incident Ga flux (JGa) of 0.30 monolayer/s and an incident flux ratio of J NH3 J Ga ∼ 10 3 , desorption of Ga is significant for Ts above ∼ 700°C, and Ga surface accumulation is significant for Ts below ∼ 750°C. Two distinct activation energies for Ga desorption are observed: 1.4 ± 0.1 eV for 625°C