cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Capitalizing on transcriptome profiling to optimize and identify targets for promoting early murine folliculogenesis in vitro

In vitro ovarian follicle culture is an active area of research towards providing fertility options for survivors of childhood cancer. Late-stage murine follicles (multilayer secondary and onwards) can be cultured successfully to maturity to obtain a meiotically competent oocyte for fertilization, but primordial and primary follicles usually die in culture because many key components of early follicle development are still unknown and difficult to mimic in vitro. To engineer a biomimetic three-dimensional culture system with high efficacy and reproducibility for the clinic, detailed mechanisms of early folliculogenesis must be uncovered. Previous studies have shown that primary murine follicles co-cultured in groups, in contrast to single follicles cultured in isolation, can reach preovulatory size and produce competent oocytes, but the factors accounting for the synergy of follicle co-culture are still unknown. To probe the underlying mechanisms of successful follicle co-culture, we conducted a time-course experiment for murine follicles encapsulated in 0.3% alginate hydrogels and compared between two conditions: groups of 5 (5X) versus groups of 10 (10X). For every 2 days during the course of 12 days, follicles were dissociated and somatic cells were isolated for microarray-based gene expression analysis (n = 380 follicles for 5X and n = 430 follicles for 10X). Gene activities in follicles co-cultured in larger groups (10X) had a distinct transcriptomic profile of key genes and pathways such as prolactin signaling and angiogenesis-related genes when compared to cells from follicles co-cultured in the smaller cohort (5X). To benchmark the results for follicles grown in culture, we compared our microarray data to data from murine follicles freshly isolated from the ovary at comparable stages of development previously published by Bernabe et al. Comparison of these datasets identified similarities and differences between folliculogenesis in the native microenvironment and the engineered in vitro system. A more detailed understanding of follicle growth in vitro will not only allow for better culture methods but also advance the field towards providing improved fertility options for survivors of childhood cancer.
Leveraging Telemedicine for Quality Improvement Video Review of Critical ICU Events: A Novel Multidisciplinary Form of Education.

The objectives of this study were to codify the events triggering bedside recording and to report the types of performance issues identified that were then used to inform dedicated ICU quality improvement efforts. Design This is a retrospective descriptive analysis of a video review program conducted at a single institution from July 2016 to November 2019. Setting Surgical and Trauma ICU at a single urban academic quaternary care center. Patients All patients admitted to the surgical and trauma ICU between July 2016 and November 2019 were eligible for the study as all ICU beds in our health system institutions are equipped with closed circuit video/audio monitoring. Through an institutional review board approved program, any event triggering the immediate bedside presence of a provider in the ICU is routinely recorded at the discretion of the care team or tele-intensivist. Interventions A database of these events was created over a 3-year period, and cases were reviewed for content, quality improvement, and educational opportunities. Select recordings were analyzed and shared at multidisciplinary/multiprofessional video review sessions. Measurements and main results There were 286 critical events video recorded and reviewed in the ICUs between July 2016 and November 2019. The most commonly recorded events included: cardiopulmonary arrests (n = 75), intubations (n = 71), and acute clinical decompensation triggered by nonreassuring vital signs (n = 57) or arrhythmias (n = 13). Of these recordings, 59 were shared at video review conferences, where quality of care was assessed and thematic opportunities for improvement were characterized. Recurrent quality improvement themes that were identified included adherence to protocols, the importance of teamwork and closed-loop communication, clearly designated team leadership, and the use of universal precautions. Conclusions Video review in the ICU is feasible and presents valuable opportunities for quality improvement and educational discussions.
Deformation Measurements of Flaming Gorge Dam

The structural action and accuracy of assumptions used for design of concrete dams can be investigated best by structural behavior tests of dams in service. Instruments to indicate length change, temperature, and deflection have been installed in Flaming Gorge Dam. The instruments consist of 912 strain meters, 61 stress meters, 116 jointmeters, 32 thermometers, 3 plumblines, and 42 triangulation targets. Readings from the instruments were recorded at scheduled intervals. The methods used to obtain deformation measurements at Flaming Gorge Dam are described. The measured deformations are presented and compared with analytical deformations. This study indicates agreement between measured deformations and analytical deformations for a particular loading condition. The particular condition is for constant reservoir water surface elevation and varying concrete temperature between October 9, 1963 and March 6, 1964. The plumbline data indicate a downstream movement of 0.88 in. and the analytical analysis indicates a downstream movement of 0.86 in. for this period.
Guiding Users to Shops Using the Near-Field Communication between Signages and Mobile Terminals

This paper proposes two algorithms for navigating users to their destinations using near-field communication between their mobile terminals and digital signage units in an underground area where GPS is not usable. One algorithm focuses on the angle to the destination while the other looks at the distance to the destination. The paper also proposes an algorithm for avoiding traffic congestion by limiting the number of mobile terminals that communicate with a signage unit simultaneously. We have built an underground mall model on a simulator, and evaluated the algorithms in terms of the rate of successful arrival at the destination and the time it takes to reach the destination.
On the decomposition of X2 for two-way contingency tables

When samples are taken independently from I populations and the subjects classified into J categories, can the Pearson's chisquare statistic X2 testing the homogeneity model on the resulting I×J two-way table be decomposed into components familiar in the analysis of variance? Will the X2 testing the homogeneity model on tables derived by collapsing columns in the spirit of orthogonal comparisons in factorial experiments be asymptotically independent? The answers to both questions are generally negative. This paper gives a theoretical justification.
Protein Interface Zinc Sites: The Role of Zinc in the Supramolecular Assembly of Proteins and in Transient Protein–Protein Interactions

New roles are emerging for zinc in protein quaternary structure and supramolecular assemblies. When zinc bridges the interfaces of proteins via ligands provided by different polypeptide chains, it is either essential for the interaction or it serves mainly as a stabilizing factor. Zinc can cross-link four, three, or more commonly, two protein monomers. Functions of protein interface zinc sites include catalysis, inhibition of enzymatic or other activity, packaging of proteins for storage, dimerization of proteins, formation of protein/receptor complexes, and construction of molecular scaffolds. Tight control of the availability of zinc and ligand-centered redox reactions in zinc/thiolate coordination environments of protein interface zinc sites suggest mechanisms for modulating transient protein–protein interactions. Keywords: protein interface zinc sites; quaternary structure; protein–protein interactions; supramolecular assemblies; zinc–sulfur interactions
Localizing specific elements bound to macromolecules by EFTEM.

Publisher Summary Quantitative 3D imaging of elemental distributions in the energy filtered transmission electron microscopy (EFTEM) provides a new approach for localizing specific components in sectioned freeze-substituted cells. This chapter contains a description of the basic principles of energy filters and their application for mapping elements in sectioned cells. Quantitative elemental distributions are obtained by subtracting a scaled image acquired at an energy loss just below a core-edge from an image acquired just above the edge. The net signal is then normalized by zero-loss intensity and divided by the ionization cross section to give the number of atoms per unit area. In addition, the energy filtered imaging of phosphorus reveals the distribution of DNA in the cell nucleus. However, it is shown that determining the phosphorus distributions in specimens of variable thickness requires a correction for plural inelastic scattering. By acquiring electron spectroscopic images in tilt series and employing established methods of electron tomography, it is possible to reconstruct the distributions of specific elements in three dimensions.
Present status of cross section data of the fissile and fertile isotopes for fast reactors

We review the status of the most relevant neutron cross sections for the design of fast breeder reactors.
European Citizenship in Crisis: Citizenship Rights and Austerity Politics

It is difficult to appreciate how much the politics and policies of the Eurozone have changed since 2008. This paper focuses on the effects of austerity politics and policy on the citizenship rights of Europeans: their political rights to choose and influence their rulers; their civil rights to expression and organization; and their social rights to basic standards of living. It finds that the changes in EU and Eurozone institutions have sharply eroded those rights. By transferring power to largely undemocratic institutions such as the IMF and ECB, it diminishes the political rights of citizens who are restricted to voting for governments that lost importance. Austerity politics, including new fiscal governance provisions in the Treaties, curtail their social rights by making it harder for governments to correct and compensate inegalitarian market out comes. In sum, changes in the structure of the EU since 1998 have eroded both social and political citizenship for Europeans.
Effect of Mitochondrial Ca2+ on Hepatic Aspartate Formation and Gluconeogenic Flux

According to current evidence, the mechanism of action of many gluconeogenic hormones involves a rise in intracellular free Ca2+ (Charestet al., 1983; Sistareet al., 1985). There is general agreement that hepatic gluconeogenesis is controlled at several sites in the pathway by Ca2+ -and cAMP-mediated phosphorylations of cytosolic enzymes (Hers and Hue, 1983; Pilkiset al., 1986). Nevertheless, there is a perception that other Ca2+ -linked sites of action may be important; in particular, those which involve mitochondrial enzymes (Leverveet al., 1986; McCormack, 1985; Staddon and Hansford, 1987). The purpose of the study was to evaluate the significance of the stimulation by Ca2+ ofα-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (McCormack, 1985) and pyruvate dehydrogenase (Oviasu and Whitton, 1984) which occurs following exposure of the liver to glucagon or phenylephrine. The dramatic decrease inα-toglutarate caused by these hormones (Siesset al., 1977) is rather convincingly due to the stimulation ofα-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase. Studies from this laboratory (LaNoueet al., 1983; Schoolwerth and LaNoue, 1983) showed thatα-ketoglutarate is a potent and physiologically important inhibitor of glutamate dehydrogenase. Stimulation ofα-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase relieves inhibition of glutamate dehydrogenase byα-ketoglutarate and, thereby, may stimulate gluconeogenesis from amino acids. Glucagon and phenylephrine are also known to stimulate gluconeogenesis from lactate (Hutsonet al., 1976; Kneeret al., 1979), and to stimulate alcohol oxidation (Ochs and Lardy, 1981) and the malate-aspartate cycle (Kneeret al., 1979; Leverveet al., 1986). These processes do not involve glutamate dehydrogenase but rather aspartate aminotransferase and the glutamate aspartate translocase (Rognstad and Katz, 1970; Williamsonet al., 1971).
The utility of silicon in organic synthesis

Abstract New annulation methodology based upon the addition of diorganocuprates to ⇌,β-unsaturated ketones and regiospecific trapping of the resulting enolate with ⇌-trimethylsilyl vinyl ketones is presented. The stereochemical details of the process have been elucidated and are discussed. Application of this methodology to the synthesis of a variety of polycyclic ketone structures is described including applications to steroid synthesis.
A GIS Toolbox for Measuring and Mapping Person‐Based Space‐Time Accessibility

This article presents a toolbox to compute and map person-based accessibility indicators, based on classical time geography concepts. The intent is to provide GIS and urban planning practitioners with a user-friendly and easily customizable tool. While it relies on well-known concepts, the toolbox implements a major innovation in person-based accessibility assessment by taking into account opening hours when measuring the accessibility of urban facilities. The toolbox can be downloaded from http://bit.ly/1h6yg5Z.
Patient-centric on-body sensor localization in smart health systems

A major obstacle in widespread adoption of current wearable monitoring systems is that sensors must be worn on predefined locations on the body. In order to continuously detect sensor locations, we propose a localization algorithm that allows patients to wear the sensors on different body locations without having to adhere to a specific installation protocol. Our approach achieves localization accuracy of 90.8% even when the sensor nodes are mis-oriented. Integration of the resulting location information as a feature in an activity recognition classifier significantly increased the recognition accuracy from 23.5% to 99.5%.
The Organization and Scope of Agents: Regulating Multiproduct Industries

Abstract A mechanism design problem with two-dimensional uncertainty is solved to derive the optimal policy for regulating a monopolist with private information about the marginal cost of producing two different goods. The paper establishes that informational economies of scope, or incentive complementarities, arise when one firm produces both goods. The regulator should weigh these economies against the benefits of relative performance incentives when choosing between integrated and decentralized organizations. Unless the marginal costs of the two products are sufficiently positively correlated, the optimal ex ante policy gives control of both markets to a single firm. Journal of Economic Literature Classification Number(s): D82, L22, L51.
On greedy algorithms for series parallel graphs

This note describes some sufficient conditions for the maximum or minimum of a weighted flow (the weights are on paths, and are derived from weights on the edges of the path), of given volume in a series parallel graph to be found by a greedy algorithm.
Web-Enabled Database Connectivity: A Comparison of Programming, Scripting, and Application-Based Access

Abstract Legacy databases represent a valuable repository of stored knowledge that could prove useful if made available to a broader audience via Internet applications. This article provides a framework that will assist managers in reviewing and selecting appropriate techniques for integrating their legacy database systems with Web technology, based on their particular needs, resources, and constraints. in general, for smaller organizations with lower levels of expertise, relatively few data requests, and many resource constraints, scripting can provide a method of accessing a legacy database and publishing it via a Web-enabled application in the most cost-efficient method. For larger organizations with more resources, or for applications where a number of data requests are expected, an implementation using a Web application server such as Allaire ColdFusion is recommended. For organizations with detailed, highly specialized requirements or mission-critical information, a programming approach using Java/J...
Clarity and the Grammar of Skepticism

: Why ever assert clarity? If It is clear that p is true, then saying so should be at best superfluous. Barker and Taranto (2003) and Taranto (2006) suggest that asserting clarity reveals information about the beliefs of the discourse participants, specifically, that they both believe that p. However, mutual belief is not sufficient to guarantee clarity (It is clear that God exists). I propose instead that It is clear that p means instead (roughly) ‘the publicly available evidence justifies concluding that p’. Then what asserting clarity reveals is information concerning the prevailing epistemic standard that determines whether a body of evidence is sufficient to justify a claim. If so, the semantics of clarity constitutes a grammatical window into the discourse dynamics of inference and skepticism.
Antisense Inhibition of the Photosystem I Antenna Protein Lhca4 in Arabidopsis thaliana

The function of Lhca4, a gene encoding the photosystem I type IV chlorophyll a/b-binding protein complex in Arabidopsis, was investigated using antisense technology. Lhca4 protein was reduced in a number of mutant lines and abolished in one. The inhibition of protein was not correlated with the inhibition of mRNA. No depletion of Lhca1 was observed, but the low-temperature fluorescence emission spectrum was drastically altered in the mutants. The emission maximum was blue-shifted by 6 nm, showing that chlorophyll molecules bound to Lhca4 are responsible for most of the long-wavelength fluorescence emission. Some mutants also showed an unexplainable delay in flowering time and an increase in seed weight.
Making the Mid-IR nano with epitaxial plasmonic devices

We have extensively investigated heavily doped semiconductors as potential plasmonic metals at long wavelengths. The ability to control the doping level in a semiconductor material, both III-V's (InAs/InSb) and Silicon, allows for control of the metal's optical properties, and adds an intriguing additional controllable parameter to the design of plasmonic structures. These materials can be quite accurately modeled using the Drude formalism, even for energies larger than the band gap, and have a number of attractive qualities, including control of carrier concentration (and thus plasma frequency, ωρ), as well as single-crystal material quality, atomic-layer control of thicknesses, and the potential for integration with epitaxially-grown mid-IR optoelectronic devices. In this presentation, I will discuss recent developments in epitaxial plasmonic devices for mid-IR applications. First, the growth and characterization of our materials will be discussed, as well as the material limitations. Subsequently, I will demonstrate the doped semiconductors potential as epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) materials. At ENZ frequencies, we have demonstrated enhanced coupling to sub-wavelength waveguides, offering a potential route towards overcoming the mismatch between the micron-scale light of the mid-IR and the nano-scale. In addition, we have shown that near ENZ, these materials thin (d ≪ λo) loss-less dielectric films to serve as perfect absorbing layers, by controlling the metal/dielectric interface phase shift in thin film interference structures.
In vitro measurements of cytotoxic effects of 193 nm and 213 nm laser pulses at subablative fluences.

Background and objective The frequency-quintupled q-switched Nd:YAG laser is being studied as an alternative to the ArF excimer laser for photorefractive procedures. The present report describes two experiments comparing biologic effects of these laser devices. Study design/materials and methods Bovine corneas were irradiated with subablative laser pulses in liquid nitrogen and analyzed by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy to assess free radical production. Aqueous bacterial suspensions were irradiated with low-intensity laser pulses and assayed for cell survival. Results Electron paramagnetic resonance spectra were very similar in both amplitude and shape for exposure at the two wavelengths. Bacterial survival was markedly less for 213 nm irradiation than 193 nm exposure and displayed a different dependence on cumulative exposure. Conclusion Free radical production by 213 nm laser exposure is quite comparable to that seen previously for 193 nm irradiation. However, cell lethality appears to be significantly greater at the longer ultraviolet wavelength. This difference may contribute to complications observed after corneal photoablation with the 213 nm device.
Future Directions in Ground-Based Gamma-Ray Astronomy

With the recent successes of gamma-ray astronomy an obvious question is raised: where is this field going next? At present we have a network of similar air Cerenkov telescope arrays throughout the world and a large water detector in the USA. Here we try to identify which practical paths exist to newer, more sensitive instruments and what these might hold for the future.
A flavoprotein responsible for the intense sulfhydryl oxidase activity of rat seminal vesicle secretion.

Abstract A flavoprotein isolated in substantial yields from rat seminal vesicle secretion accounts for most if not all of the capacity of this fluid to catalyze the aerobic oxidation of a number of low molecular weight thiol compounds. The nature and possible physiological significance of this enzyme are discussed.
Igfbp‐3 mediates TGFβ1 proliferative response in colon cancer cells

Many human tumor cells are resistant to growth inhibition by TGFβ1. Resistance may be caused by mutations in TGFβ receptors or in other components of the TGFβ signal transduction systems, or by knockout of the retinoblastoma (Rb) gene, which in fibroblasts converts cellular response to TGFβ1 from growth inhibition to growth stimulation. Our earlier studies showed such a switch in response to TGFβ1 occurred in 45% of colon cancers but without deletion of Rb. We now show that insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) mediates the TGFβ1-induced proliferation of 3 metastatic or highly aggressive colon carcinoma cell lines. TGFβ1 increases IGFBP-3 abundance while phosphorothiolated antisense oligonucleotides to IGFBP-3 block the growth-promoting effect of TGFβ1 in each of 3 lines.IGFBP-3 induces carcinoma cell growth in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner in vitro. IGFBP-3 may confer a selective growth advantage on tumor cells in vivo because levels of mature IGFBP-3 were elevated at least 2-fold in 7 of 10 resected colon cancers compared with adjacent normal tissue. Int. J. Cancer 87:373–378, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Age-Associated Metabolic and Morphologic Changes in Mitochondria of Individual Mouse and Hamster Oocytes

Background In human oocytes, as in other mammalian ova, there is a significant variation in the pregnancy potential, with approximately 20% of oocyte-sperm meetings resulting in pregnancies. This frequency of successful fertilization decreases as the oocytes age. This low proportion of fruitful couplings appears to be influenced by changes in mitochondrial structure and function. In this study, we have examined mitochondrial biogenesis in both hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) and mouse (Mus musculus) ova as models for understanding the effects of aging on mitochondrial structure and energy production within the mammalian oocyte. Methodology/Principal Findings Individual metaphase II oocytes from a total of 25 young and old mice and hamsters were collected from ovarian follicles after hormone stimulation and prepared for biochemical or structural analysis. Adenosine triphosphate levels and mitochondrial DNA number were determined within individual oocytes from young and old animals. In aged hamsters, oocyte adenosine triphosphate levels and mitochondrial DNA molecules were reduced 35.4% and 51.8%, respectively. Reductions of 38.4% and 44% in adenosine triphosphate and mitochondrial genomes, respectively, were also seen in aged mouse oocytes. Transmission electron microscopic (TEM) analysis showed that aged rodent oocytes had significant alterations in mitochondrial and cytoplasmic lamellae structure. Conclusions/Significance In both mice and hamsters, decreased adenosine triphosphate in aged oocytes is correlated with a similar decrease in mtDNA molecules and number of mitochondria. Mitochondria in mice and hamsters undergo significant morphological change with aging including mitochondrial vacuolization, cristae alterations, and changes in cytoplasmic lamellae.
Prognostic importance of atrial natriuretic peptide in patients with chronic heart failure

Several circulating neurohormones have been shown to have prognostic significance in patients with chronic heart failure, but the relation between plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptide and mortality in this disorder remains unknown. Plasma levels of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide were measured in 102 patients in whom left ventricular ejection fraction, ventricular arrhythmias on ambulatory electrocardiographic recording and plasma levels of norepinephrine, renin activity, aldosterone and arginine vasopressin were also measured. Compared with patients with atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations below the median value of 125 pg/ml, patients with higher levels of the peptide had a higher plasma renin activity (8.9 +/- 1.8 versus 2.6 +/- 0.4 ng/ml per h) and plasma norepinephrine (858 +/- 116 versus 538 +/- 45 pg/ml), more frequent premature ventricular depolarizations (4,485 +/- 715 versus 2,004 +/- 495/day) and more advanced hemodynamic abnormalities (all p less than 0.05). During the subsequent 13 to 25 months of follow-up, patients with high levels of atrial natriuretic peptide had a significantly lower rate of survival than did those whose initial circulating peptide concentrations were normal or mildly increased (p = 0.01). These data indicate that, in patients with chronic heart failure, plasma atrial natriuretic peptide provides important prognostic information. This may relate to the ability of the hormone to reflect the interplay of several pathophysiologic factors that contribute to mortality in this disease.
Virtual logic netlist: Enabling efficient RTL analysis

Early design analysis is essential for better design definition and efficient balancing of design effort and risk. In this paper, we introduce the concept of virtual logic netlist (VLN), a potentially incomplete yet representative hierarchical and logical netlist graph of the design. VLN enables early and rapid register transfer level (RTL) analysis using accurate backend tool engines without the need for time-intensive synthesis techniques. We discuss the creation of a VLN, and its application to enable RTL clock gating analysis. Experimental evaluation performed on the IBM POWER8 microprocessor chip showed an error of less than 2%, and a TAT improvement of atleast 250x, when compared to full netlist based analysis.
Flow Cytometry Purification of Mouse Meiotic Cells

The heterogeneous nature of cell types in the testis and the absence of meiotic cell culture models have been significant hurdles to the study of the unique differentiation programs that are manifest during meiosis. Two principal methods have been developed to purify, to varying degrees, various meiotic fractions from both adult and immature animals: elutriation or Staput (sedimentation) using BSA and/or percoll gradients. Both of these methods rely on cell size and density to separate meiotic cells. Overall, except for few cell populations, these protocols fail to yield sufficient purity of the numerous meiotic cell populations that are necessary for detailed molecular analyses. Moreover, with such methods usually one type of meiotic cells can be purified at a given time, which adds an extra level of complexity regarding the reproducibility and homogeneity when comparing meiotic cell samples. Here, we describe a refined method that allows one to easily visualize, identify, and purify meiotic cells, from germ cells to round spermatids, using FACS combined with Hoechst 33342 staining. This method provides an overall snapshot of the entire meiotic process and allows one to highly purify viable cells from most stage of meiosis. These purified cells can then be analyzed in detail for molecular changes that accompany progression through meiosis, for example changes in gene expression and the dynamics of nucleosome occupancy at hotspots of meiotic recombination.
Quantitative analysis of autocrine-regulated, matrix-induced, and tumor cell-stimulated endothelial cell migration using a silicon template compartmentalization technique.

Abstract Autocrine-regulated, matrix-induced, and tumor cell-stimulated endothelial cell migration was quantitatively analyzed using a two-dimensional, two-compartment coculture system. Silicon templates were used to subdivide 35-mm tissue culture dishes into two separate compartments. Endothelial cells were grown to confluence in the inner compartment and released from growth arrest by removal of the silicon template. The distance of endothelial cell outgrowth from the monolayer was measured in 24-h intervals. Endothelial cells from different vascular beds migrated with different migration rates (large vessel endothelial cells > hemangioendothelioma cells > microvessel endothelial cells). Prior coating of tissue culture wells with fibronectin, type I collagen, or type IV collagen and increasing serum concentrations strongly enhanced endothelial cell migration. Seeding tumor cells into the outer compartment prior to removal of the silicon template permitted the direct coculture analysis of tumor cell-induced endothelial cell migration. Microvascular endothelial cell migration was stimulated in a tumor cell number-dependent fashion, whereas large vessel endothelial cells could not consistently be stimulated by coculture with tumor cells. It is concluded that silicon templates offer a useful approach for the quantitative study of migration of anchorage-dependent cells, permitting follow-up measurements over several days, the study of matrix effects, and the direct coculture analysis of cell migration.
A1 receptors self-regulate adenosine release in the striatum: evidence of autoreceptor characteristics

Adenosine A(1) receptors are inhibitory G-protein coupled receptors that presynaptically regulate neurotransmitter release, but their role in self-regulating adenosine release is not known. In this study, we examined the modulation of evoked adenosine and dopamine efflux by A(1) receptors and studied whether D(1) receptors mediate these effects. Fast-scan cyclic voltammetry at carbon-fiber microelectrodes was used for the simultaneous detection of adenosine and dopamine efflux on a subsecond time scale. Short electrical stimulation trains delivered to the substantia nigra (60 pulses, 60 Hz) were used to evoke dopamine and adenosine release in the striatum. The adenosine A(1) receptor agonist N(6)-cyclopentyladenosine (CPA, 1 mg/kg, i.p.) decreased both adenosine and dopamine efflux, although the effect for adenosine occurred more quickly than for dopamine. The A(1) antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX, 6 mg/kg, i.p.) increased stimulated adenosine release. The effects of CPA were partially attenuated by the dopamine D(1) receptor antagonist SCH-23390. Thus, A(1) and D(1) receptors have a synergistic interaction that modulates both stimulated adenosine and dopamine. The decrease in adenosine is not a downstream effect of lowered dopamine release, as decreasing dopamine synthesis and release with α-methyl-p-tyrosine or increasing release with haloperidol had no effect on adenosine release. This study shows that A(1) receptors have some characteristics of an autoreceptor, including self-regulation of adenosine release.
Optical-gain enhancement in resonant-cavity heterojunction bipolar phototransistor through emitter-edge thinning

The authors use a lateral emitter resistor in floating base GaAs/InGaAs/AlGaAs heteroj unction bipolar phototransistors to reduce the surface recombination in the vertical wall of the emitter-base junction and increase the photosensitivity at low injection levels. The same process also reduces the dark current in the reverse biased collector junction.
A simple phase-extraction assay for chloramphenicol acyltransferase activity

A simple and convenient phase extraction assay for chloramphenicol (Cm) acetyltransferase (CAT) activity has been developed, based on the enzymatic butyrylation of radiolabelled Cm. The assay is linear over two to three orders of magnitude of enzyme concentration, is highly sensitive, and substantially less expensive than all presently available alternatives. Methods for convenient CAT assay, adapted for mammalian cells, plant protoplasts, and mammalian cell culture supernatants, are described. These methods should also simplify measurement of CAT activity in other organisms, such as yeast and bacteria. In addition, a simple pre-extraction procedure is presented for purifying radiolabelled Cm which allows a 25-fold increase in sensitivity using tritiated substrates.
An evaluation of the public response to a community recycling education program

Abstract Conserving resources and reducing the volume of garbage that must be incinerated or stored in landfills through recycling has become a major priority for many communities. Educational campaigns are often used to inform the public and induce recycling behavior. However, research evaluating the success of these campaigns has focused primarily on recycling behavior and not on cognitive factors such as awareness or motivation which may precede or accompany the behavior. This study evaluated the effects of a recycling education campaign on residents’ knowledge of recycling issues, motives to recycle, and recycling behavior. Residents of a Midwestern community were surveyed before and after implementation of a three‐year recycling education program. A comparison of pre‐ and post‐program survey results indicated that residents’ knowledge of recycling issues was more accurate, their motives reflected greater concern for the environment, and their recycling behavior increased after the education campaign.
Computationally efficient transforms for video coding

This paper describes the construction of computationally efficient transforms which can significantly reduce the complexity of a video decoder without loss in compression efficiency. In particular, these inverse transforms can be implemented using purely 16-bit arithmetic with similar rate-distortion performance to a 32-bit or floating point transform. To allow for variable block size coding, four 2D transforms are considered: one each for 8&8, 8&4, 4&8 and 4&4 blocks respectively. The design criteria for a pure 16 bit arithmetic implementation of the inverse transform are introduced, and used to derive the only useful set of transforms under these conditions. These transforms have been used in the WMV9/VC-1 codec to achieve significant reduction in computational complexity.
T-cell subsets and nuclear contour index of skin-infiltrating T-cells in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.

Cases of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas including Sezary syndrome were used to evaluate nuclear contour index (NCI), nuclear cytoplasmic ratio (N/C), and helper/suppressor T-cell ratio. It was found that: (1) the average NCI measured in pan-T-cell monoclonal antibody positive cells (N = 100) is higher than that measured in non-T-cells (N = 100) in the same lesion; (2) NCI increased from erythematous stage to tumor or Sezary stage as disease process advances; (3) N/C was not significantly increased with disease process and did not correlate with NCI; (4) suppressor T-cells were significantly increased in early stages of the disease, whereas helper T-cells were dominant in late stage lesions; and (5) the majority of tumor cell infiltrating into the epidermis were helper T-cells in all stages. In control specimens from chronic and acute skin conditions in which lymphocytic infiltration is seen, cells with NCI greater than 6.5 did not exceed 20%. It is concluded that if 25% or more cells in the lesion have NCI greater than 6.5 in pan-T-monoclonal antibody positive cells, the diagnosis of CTCL is very likely. Varying numbers of OKT6 positive cells (Langerhans' cell, thymocyte) were admixed in the dermis of all cases, and had no significant correlation with the stages.
Determination of inorganic bromide in soils and plant tissues with a bromide selective‐ion electrode

Abstract A solid‐state bromide electrode was used in direct potentiometric determination of inorganic bromide in soil and plant extracts. The extraction procedure gave over 94% bromide recovery from soil samples. Results were similar to those obtained with X‐ray diffraction method for bromide determination in carnation plants.
Depression-related hyperglycemia in type 1 diabetes: a mediational approach.

OBJECTIVE Depression is linked with hyperglycemia and with an increased risk for diabetes complications, but the mechanisms underlying these relationships have not been established. In this study, we applied mediational analysis methods to determine whether the hyperglycemic effect of depression could be mediated by poor diabetes self-care. METHODS Depression symptoms and diabetes self-care activity were assessed in a primary care sample of 188 patients with type 1 diabetes by using the Hopkins Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90) and the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA). A composite score of self-care activity was formed from SDSCA ratings for diet amount, exercise, and glucose testing. Degree of hyperglycemia (level of glycosylated hemoglobin [HbA1c]), weight, insulin dose, and other clinical characteristics were obtained from electronic medical records. Ordinary least-squares regression was used to determine the effect of depression on HbA1c level controlling for weight and insulin dose. The SDSCA score was then added to the regression model to determine whether it attenuated the effect of depression symptoms on HbA1c level, thus providing suggestive evidence of mediation from these cross-sectional data. RESULTS Depression symptoms, poor diabetes self-care, and hyperglycemia were correlated with one another in univariate analyses (p <.05). Depression symptoms were associated with higher HbA1c after controlling for weight and insulin dose (parameter estimate for depression 0.53, t = 3.6, p <.001). Inclusion of SDSCA in the model minimally attenuated the effect of depression symptoms (adjusted parameter estimate for depression 0.50, t = 3.3, p = .001). CONCLUSIONS These findings do not support mediation of the depression-hyperglycemia relationship by diabetes self-care behavior. Other pathways, including psychophysiological mechanisms, should be investigated.
Coherent electromagnetic wave propagation through randomly distributed dielectric scatterers

We present a vector multiple-scattering analysis of the coherent wave propagation through an inhomogeneous media consisting of a random distribution of identical, oriented, nonspherical, dielectric scatterers. The single-scattering aspect of the problem is dealt with through application of the transition or $T$ matrix. Configurational averaging techniques are employed to determine the "hole" correction integrals which are subsequently solved to yield the dispersion relations characterizing the bulk or effective properties of the medium. Closed-form solutions in the Rayleigh limit are derived for both spherical and spheroidal scatterer geometries. These solutions, together with the $T$ matrix, form the basis of our computational method for determining the coherent wave phase velocity and attenuation as a function of frequency ($\mathrm{ka}$) and scatterer concentration. Numerical results are presented for spherical and oblate spheroidal geometries over a range of $\mathrm{ka}$ values (0.05-2.0) and scatterer concentrations (0.05-0.20).
Inexpensive, Multiple-Unit Environmental Chambers with Temperature and Humidity Control

A system is described that has eight independently controlled environmental chambers with a single electric resistance heat source and a medium-temperature 0.5-ton (100 Btu/min) refrigeration unit to provide warm and cold forced air through ducts to each of the units (90 by 60 by 60 cm). A thermostat in each chamber controls a pair of solenoid-actuated warm and cold air ports. Its design is simple and reliable, using integrated circuits for easy repair and high-current switching transistors instead of relays for increased longevity, Temperature control is ± 0.5°C, and humidity control has been added. The cost of all materials and equipment can be kept under 2,000 if the thermostats are assembled from component parts.
Inflammation induces tau pathology in inclusion body myositis model via glycogen synthase kinase‐3β

Objective Inclusion body myositis (IBM) is an inflammatory muscle disease, although the role of inflammation remains to be elucidated. Here, we address the mechanisms by which inflammation modulates Aβ and tau, two hallmark features of this disease. Methods A transgenic mouse model of IBM was utilized in which acute and chronic inflammation was induced via lipopolysaccharide. The effects of inflammation were assessed by analyzing the myopathological and the behavioral phenotype. Human IBM skeletal muscle biopsies were investigated to determine concordance with data from the animal model. Results Both acute and chronic lipopolysaccharide exposure augmented infiltration by CD8+ cytotoxic T cells and increased amyloid precursor protein steady-state levels in skeletal muscle, whereas increased Aβ generation was observed only in chronically treated mice. Both acute and chronic inflammation enhanced tau phosphorylation in skeletal muscle. The mechanism underlying this effect was mediated by the tau kinase, glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β). Suppression of GSK-3β activity using either a specific inhibitor or lithium chloride significantly reduced tau phosphorylation and partially rescued motor impairment. In human IBM muscle, GSK-3β and phospho-tau were colocalized, further supporting the pathogenic role of GSK-3β in this disease. Using C2C12 myoblast cultures, we found that GSK-3β was activated by proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α), leading to enhanced tau phosphorylation. Interpretation Our results identify a molecular mechanism by which proinflammatory stimuli affect tau pathology via the GSK-3β signaling pathway in skeletal muscle. Ann Neurol 2008
Space-debris identification using optical calibration of common spacecraft materials

An investigation of the reflective properties of 19 common spacecraft materials was conducted. The experimental setup and the testing procedure are discussed, and a new composite albedo phase function is proposed. Tabular data and graphs of the spectral reflectivities, scattering characteristics, and albedos of these objects are listed for the visible and near infrared wavelengths. Conclusions are drawn regarding the validity of this method, and other possible methods of debris identification are discussed.
I can't be bothered

I tell my patients, residents, and students that they should call me if they need me. They are not an interruption to my work; they are my work. In this sense, I can't be “bothered” by them. But a ...
Depression in men receiving androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer: a pilot study.

Purpose: Prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in men and one of the leading causes of cancer death in men internationally. Treatment for prostate cancer frequently includes androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Reports of depressive symptoms arising during ADT are emerging. This study examines the prevalence rates and risk factors associated with major depression in this population. Method: 45 men with prostate cancer receiving ADT at the MGH Cancer Center were surveyed for depression with the SCID for Axis I disorders for DSM-IV and the Beck Depression Inventory. Results: Major depressive disorder was prevalent in 12.8% of the men with prostate cancer receiving ADT, eight times the national rate of depression in men, 32 times the rate in men over 65 years old. Major depression was not associated with worsening disease, medical response to ADT, receiving chemotherapy, or the type of ADT. Past history of depression was associated with current depression in this population (p<0.000). No first onset cases of depression occurred on ADT in this sample. Conclusion: This data suggests a significant rate of major depression in men with prostate cancer receiving ADT and that men with past histories of depression may be at particular risk for recurrence of their depression while undergoing this treatment. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Induced Acceleration of Phosphine Exchange in Metal Carbonyls by Pendant Groups of Coordinated Polyphosphines. Two Dangling Phosphine Arms Are Much Better Than One1

The kinetics and thermodynamics of isomerization of the linkage isomers (OC)5W[η1-PPh2CH2CH(PPh2)2] (1) and (OC)5W[η1-PPh2CH(PPh2)CH2PPh2] (2) in chloroform have been studied by 31P{1H} NMR over the temperature range of 10−55 °C. Conversion of 1 to 2 is exothermic (ΔH = −12.25 ± 0.1 kJ mol-1) and is accompanied by a large decrease in entropy (ΔS = −28.2 ± 0.3 J mol-1 K-1). The reaction proceeds much faster than expected [k = (1.18 ± 0.01) × 10-5 s-1] at 25 °C, and its small activation enthalpy (ΔH⧧ = 92.6 ± 1.9 kJ mol-1) and large negative activation entropy (ΔS⧧ = −28.2 ± 6.2 J mol-1 K-1) suggest an associative mechanism. The reaction is 4 orders of magnitude faster than the isomerization of (OC)5W[η1-PPh2CH2CH2P(p-tol)2] (3) to (OC)5W[η1-P(p-tol)2CH2CH2PPh2] (4). Exchange of coordinated and dangling phosphines is faster than chelation for each of the four complexes, but chelation of 1 or 2 is much faster than chelation of 3 or 4. It appears that the second dangling phosphine arm present in 1 and 2 accel...
Heavy top-quark mass predictions.

Renormalization-group equations and asymptotic conditions are used to obtain top-quark mass predictions. In the standard model with an explicit Higgs mechanism, our analysis becomes identical to the Kubo-Sibold-Zimmermann coupling-reduction approach. Refining their prediction, we find ${m}_{t}$\ensuremath{\simeq}95 GeV. In the simplest case of self-consistent dynamical symmetry breaking, we obtain ${m}_{t}$\ensuremath{\simeq}115 GeV. An illustration of how short-distance new physics can alter these predictions is given.