cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influence of calcium, parathyroid hormone and ionophore A-23187 on cyclic nucleotide concentrations of isolated renal tubules.

Abstract Effects of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and the divalent cation ionophore A-23187 on concentrations of cyclic AMP (cAMP) and cyclic GMP (cGMP) were investigated in isolated renal tubules from male hamsters. Both PTH and A-23187 increased cGMP concentrations, effects which required the presence of extracellular calcium. Increases in cGMP in response to both agents were proportionate to concentrations of calcium between 0.01 and 1.0 mM.Pretreatment of tubules with ionophore prevented any further increase in cGMP in response to PTH. Increases in cAMP in response to PTH were not altered by extracellular calcium, while smaller increases due to A-23187 were completely calcium-dependent. A-23187 increased efflux of 45Ca from renal tubules and resulted in decreased accumulation and net uptake of 45Ca at low extracellular calcium concentrations (2–3 μM). Increasing extracellular calcium (0.1–3 mM) proportionately reversed the inhibition in 45Ca accumulation and resulted in increases in cGMP levels which were directly related to increases in 45Ca accumulation. The results indicate that changes in cGMP concentrations of isolated renal tubules following either PTH or A-23187 are related to changes in intracellular calcium.
Influence of sociodemographics on the health-related quality of life of pediatric patients with asthma and their caregivers.

The relationship between socioeconomic variables and the health-related quality of life (HQL) of children with asthma and their caregivers was examined. The Pediatric Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (PAQLQ) and Pediatric Asthma Caregiver's Quality of Life Questionnaire (PACQLQ) were administered to 99 pediatric asthmatic patients and caregivers in two specialty clinics. Sociodemographic data was obtained from medical records and additional questions. The relationship between sociodemographic variables and HQL was determined using multiple linear regression. The mean patient age was 12.6 ± 2.1 years; more were male and from a minority race. The mean age of caregivers was 41.2 ± 8.5 years; most were female and were from a minority race. Patients tended to rate their asthma severity as mild to moderate, while caregivers tended to rate patients in the moderate to severe category. Based on prescribed medications, most patients had mild to moderate asthma. Household income was consistently associated with ...
Study on silicon carbide nanowires produced from carbon blacks and structure of carbon blacks

Silicon carbide nanowires were produced from carbon blacks at 1473 K and their microstructure was characterized by TEM, X-ray diffraction, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy. Nanowires of uniform diameters, the smallest averaging 10 nm, and narrow size distribution were obtained from graphitized carbon blacks, and their morphology depends on the properties of carbon black pecursors. High concentration of stacking faults and twins was detected. In addition to silicon carbide nanowires, a silicon carbide layer, about 20 nm thick, was formed on the surface of carbon black aggregates. The interior of the aggregates did not react and analysis of the data showed that it is composed of a mixture of amorphous carbon and small graphitic crystallites. The small lateral sizes of these crystallites remain unchanged during the graphitization process which is limited to the outer layer of the aggregates.
Application of embedded sensors in the thermal cycling of organic coatings

Abstract A standard Air Force polyurethane topcoat/epoxy chromate pigmented primer system was characterized using the thermal cycling method. This method is an accelerated test method for organic coatings that involves exposing the coating to alternating room temperature and elevated temperature cycles under constant immersion. Electrochemical properties were monitored using electrochemical impedance spectroscope for the total topcoat/primer system, the inner layer of primer, and the outer layer of the topcoat. The individual layers were monitored using platinum sensors embedded between the layers. Characterization of a system comprising of two layers of the epoxy chromate pigmented primer was also performed using EIS monitoring, and embedded sensors. The systems were cycled between room temperature, and set temperatures up to 80 °C. The barrier property of the topcoat and the bulk resistance of the primer were consistent with Arrehenius behavior. The results obtained were consistent with the intended design of the polyurethane topcoat and chromate primer with the former providing the significant barrier protection, whereas the primer providing the passivating chromate to the metal/coating interface. Analysis of the EIS data obtained from the sensor with an equivalent circuit decoupled the bulk primer properties from the metal/coating interface properties.
DIFFUSE FIBROUS PSEUDOTUMOR OF THE TUNICA VAGINALIS TESTIS, EPIDIDYMIS AND SPERMATIC CORD

A 29-year-old white male presented with a 5-year history of enlarging palpable nodules in the right hemiscrotum with associated pain. He denied any history of scrotal trauma, infection or surgery. On examination multiple small, firm, painless nodules were palpated in the adnexa of the right hemiscrotum. Both testicles were normal to palpation. Scrotal ultrasound demonstrated normal testicles bilaterally, a small hydrocele and several 3 to 5 mm hypoechoic lesions adjacent to the right testis (fig. 1, A). The patient underwent surgical exploration through a scrotal incision. The tunica vaginalis was noted to have a complex multilobular nodular mass involving the inner surface, with involvement of the epididymal tunic and the tunica vaginalis overlying the spermatic cord (fig. 1, B). Several nodules emanated directly from the tunica albuginea. Frozen sections showed benign fibrosis with calcification. The involved tunica vaginalis was excised and several individual nodules were amputated at the infundibular attachments. Microscopic examination revealed spherical nodules of varying size with acellular hyalinized fibrous structure with focal calcification. No epithelial type proliferation, cellular atypia or malignant characteristics were identified (fig. 2, A). There was a delicate vasculature in some areas, with an occasional focus of lymphocytes (fig. 2, B). These findings were consistent with fibrous pseudotumor of the tunica vaginalis. The patient convalesced well and has had no recurrence. Accepted for publication November 7, 2003. * Correspondence: Division of Urology, University of Kentucky, Chandler Medical Center, MS-283, 800 Rose St., Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0084 (telephone: 859-323-6677 or 859-806-3028; FAX: 859-323-1944; e-mail: egpolsky@hotmail.com). † Financial interest and/or other relationship with GlaxoSmithKline.
Induction of tolerance by mixed chimerism with nonmyeloblative host conditioning: the importance of overcoming intrathymic alloresistance.

A nonmyeloablative conditioning regimen, consisting of depleting doses of anti-CD4 and anti-CD8 monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) given on days ‐6 and ‐1 and 3 Gy of whole body irradiation given on day 0, allows the engraftment of fully major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-mismatched allogeneic bone marrow and the induction of tolerance for the graft. If MoAbs are given on day ‐5 only, permanent chimerism and tolerance are not observed in most animals. The addition of thymic irradiation to the single MoAb treatment permits tolerance induction in these mice, suggesting that residual host thymocytes reject donor marrow in recipients of 1, but not 2, MoAb injections. In this study, both CD4 + and CD8 + thymocytes were found to be responsible for residual alloreactivity in mice receiving only 1 MoAb injection. Co-receptor coating and downmodulation on residual thymocytes occur to a greater extent in recipients of 2 MoAb injections than in recipients of a single MoAb injection. This downmodulation may play a role in the loss of alloreactivity. Our results suggest that a second MoAb injection inactivates mature, functional donor-alloreactive CD4 + and CD8 + host thymocytes.
Survival after radiofrequency ablation of colorectal liver metastases: 10-year experience.

Objective: To assess factors affecting long-term survival of patients undergoing radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of colorectal hepatic metastases, with attention to evolving chemotherapy regimens. Methods: Prospective evaluation of 235 patients with colorectal metastases who were not candidates for resection and/or failed chemotherapy underwent laparoscopic RFA. Preoperative risk factors for survival and pre- and postoperative chemotherapy exposure were analyzed. Results: Two hundred and thirty-four patients underwent 292 RFA sessions from 1997 to 2006, an average of 8 months after initiation of chemotherapy. Twenty-three percent had extrahepatic disease preoperatively. Patients averaged 2.8 lesions, with a dominant diameter of 3.9 cm. Kaplan-Meier actuarial survival was 24 months, with actual 3 and 5 years survival of 20.2% and 18.4%, respectively. Median survival was improved for patients with ≤3 versus >3 lesions (27 vs. 17 months, P = 0.0018); dominant size 3 cm (28 vs. 20 months, P = 0.07); chorioembryonic antigen 200 ng/mL (26 vs. 16 months, P = 0.003). Presence of extrahepatic disease (P = 0.34) or type of pre/postoperative chemotherapy (5-FU-leucovorin vs. FOLFOX/FOLFIRI vs. bevacizumab) (P = 0.11) did not alter median survival. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is both the largest and longest follow-up of RFA for colorectal metastases. The number and dominant size of metastases, and preoperative chorioembryonic antigen value are strong predictors of survival. Despite classic teaching, extrahepatic disease did not adversely affect survival. In this group of patients who failed chemotherapy, newer treatment regimens (pre- or postoperatively) had no survival benefit. The actual 5-year survival of 18.4% in these patients versus near zero survival for chemotherapy alone argues for a survival benefit of RFA.
Modal usage by preschool children

Abstract Spontaneous language samples of 18 children in each age level of 2, 3, 4, and 5 years were analyzed for number of modals, semantic concepts, and first, second, and third person usage. The results revealed that the 2-year-old children used significantly fewer modals than the older children. No differences were found among the children in the remaining age levels. Ability and intention as well as first person forms were expressed most frequently. The implications of these results from an applied psychological perspective are discussed.
Einstein as a Disciple of Galileo A Comparative Study of Concept Development in Physics

In this paper I present and argue for a model of conceptual development in science and apply it to the transition from classical to modern physics associated with Einstein. The model claims a continuous and rational transition between incompatible subsequent conceptual systems in mathematical science and explains its mechanism. The model was developed in a study of the transition from preclassical to classical mechanics. I argue for a strong structural analogy between the transition from preclassical to classical mechanics on the one hand and from classical to modern physics on the other. The first transition is briefly sketched here by reference to Galileo and his disciples; in the second transition Planck and Lorentz on the one hand and Einstein on the other play the respective roles.A detailed and documented reconstruction of the transition from preclassical to classical mechanics on the basis of this model has already been published and is only briefly referred to in the paper. The transition from classical to modern physics is portrayed here much more extensively—though of course merely in broad brush strokes. Einstein–s role in this transition is reconstructed in the light of a conceptualization of his scientific knowledge as an active structure of thought, shaped by his intellectual experience. In this way, the development of his individual thinking is shown to be part of the overall process of conceptual transformation from classical to modern physics. The reconstruction sketched in this paper is to be considered as a proposal to be substantiated, reformed, and improved by future detailed studies.
Who speaks for the consumer

In 2002 and 2003, I was selected as a funded consumer representative and a member of the Board of Trustees of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). This abstract describes the experience and what it means to empower consumers. Although the example given is from the US, the principles are applicable to other countries. NAIC is the association of the chief insurance regulators of the 50 states, four territories, and the District of Columbia. As a consumer representative I attend four national meetings each year to speak up on behalf of the fair and equitable treatment of consumers. The purpose of NAIC is to improve state insurance regulation by facilitating a degree of uniformity of regulation among the states (Cude, 1997). To ensure that consumers were heard, NAIC created its Consumer Participation Program in 1992 (Cude, 1995). At a typical meeting, there are about 500 regulators, 1000 industry representatives, and 13 consumer representatives. Five of the 13 are selected to serve on the Board. The consumer representatives include professors, lawyers, economists, and community activists. Being so few in number, the question arises: How effective can we be? The fundamental responsibility is to represent consumers’ viewpoints, to give authority to or to voice their perspective that is the definition of empowerment. This quite literally means going to the microphones at NAIC meetings, but it also means working behind the scenes drafting policy and model laws. According to A. Coskun Samli (2001), empowering the consumer will benefit society as a whole. It will expand the economy. Serving as a consumer representative is indeed a worthwhile challenge, a chance to change things for the better.
Preparation of dopamine-modified boron nanoparticles

We developed a method to obtain water-dispersible boron nanoparticles (BNPs) as a potential boron delivery agent for cancer treatment. The 40 nm nanoparticles are prepared by mechanical milling in undecylenic acid followed by ligand exchange with dopamine. These particles can be rendered fluorescent by the attachment of a fluorophore to the primary amine of the dopamine, which could be used to locate the particles in a cell media. Dopamine-modified boron nanoparticles did not show signs of toxicity toward murine macrophage cells.
Medication Treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has become the most commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorder among school-age children. For more than half a century, physicians have prescribed medications to help manage behaviors such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. Today, there is a growing consensus that ADHD is a biologically based disorder, and medication is now considered the first line treatment. This article discusses the therapeutic benefits and potential side effects of psychotropic medications commonly prescribed to youth with ADHD, academic and behavioral benefits associated with medication therapy, recommendations for monitoring medication efficacy, legal considerations, and the importance of establishing school medication policies.
Quantifying the availability of clay surfaces in soils for adsorption of nitrocyanobenzene and diuron.

Coverage of clay surfaces by soil organic matter (SOM) may limit the efficacy of the soil mineral fractions for adsorption of organic contaminants and pesticides. Two methods were scrutinized for quantitatively assessing the availability of clay surfaces in a smectitic Webster A-horizon soil for sorption of p-nitrocyanobenzene (p-NCB) and diuron. One method, described previously, involves the summation of independent contributions of SOM and swelling clays to sorption of organic solutes. For this method, several assumptions must be made and/or procedural difficulties overcome in the determination of certain terms in the equation proposed for calculating the fractional availability of mineral surfaces (fa). To alleviate the methodological limitations, we developed an alternative approach for determining fa. Good agreement between fa values was obtained from both methods for p-NCB but not diuron. For p-NCB sorption, fa values varied between 0.55 and 0.71. For diuron sorption, our alternative equation estima...
Diagnosis of recurrent upper gastrointestinal cancer at the surgical anastomosis by endoscopic ultrasound

Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) with a 7.5 MHz transducer was used to examine the upper gastrointestinal tract in 40 patients who had resection of esophageal or gastric cancer, and symptoms suggesting recurrence. There were 24 patients with recurrent cancer in the area of the surgical anastomosis (based on endoscopic biopsy in 16, repeat endoscopy in 2, and surgery after negative endoscopy in 6), and 16 patients without anastomotic recurrence. With EUS, locally recurrent cancer was correctly identified by nodular hypoechoic thickening at the anastomosis in 23 of 24 patients with one false negative; absence of anastomotic recurrence was correctly diagnosed in 13 of 16 with three false positives (sensitivity, 95%; specificity, 80%; positive predictive accuracy, 88%; and negative predictive accuracy, 92%). High frequency EUS with limited depth of penetration is not effective for evaluation of distant metastases, but is ideally suited for diagnosis of locally recurrent esophageal and gastric cancer.
The Specific Primary Ionization and Energy Loss of Fast Electrons in Matter

By utilizing the dependence of the efficiency of a Geiger-Mueller counter upon the primary ionization of a counted particle, the primary ionization by electrons in hydrogen has been determined for energies in the range 0.2 Mev to 9.0 Mev. The relative stopping powers of carbon and ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$O have also been investigated, the results yielding evidence for the existence of a polarization effect which reduces the energy loss of fast particles in condensed matter. Experimental results are compared with those of the Bethe-Bloch theory and the Halpern-Hall theory which takes into account the polarization properties of the medium.
Novel Imaging Approaches to Head and Neck Cancer

An inadequate supply of oxygen, hypoxia, is an important factor contributing to resistance to treatment in a number of tumor types, including head and neck cancer. Novel imaging methods have been applied to studies of this important prognostic factor. Mammalian cells need oxygen to live but O2 also participates in the cytotoxic effects of ionizing radiation. Hypoxia is often the result of abnormal blood vessels supplying the tumor, increased diffusion distances to tumor cells, and reduced O2 transport capacity of the blood. Its consequences are mediated by a series of hypoxia-initiated genomic changes activating angiogenesis, glycolysis, and other processes that enable tumor cells to survive or escape the O2-deficient environment. Hypoxia has been shown to be important in overall diminished therapeutic response, malignant progression, increased probability of recurrence, locoregional spread, and distant metastases. Strategies are being developed to surmount the cure-limiting consequences of hypoxia, but methods are needed to select patients most likely to benefit from these new treatments. Even though hypoxia is a common tumor phenotype, it is by no means universal and is often heterogeneous within an individual patient. This review considers the biology of hypoxia, its consequences with respect to treatment, methods for measuring oxygenation in tissues, modern techniques for imaging of regional hypoxia, and how information about the oxygenation status of tumors might impact treatment.
Aging changes in thickness of the proximal femoral cortex

This study explores age-related thinning of cortical bone in an area of the femur that is becoming of increasing clinical interest. It is based on measurements of medial-lateral and posterior-anterior radiographs of the proximal one-third of the right femur, below the greater trochanter. The study population consisted of 458 skeletons from the Terry collection and included approximately equal numbers of blacks and whites, males and females, aged 20 to 98 years. Cortical thicknesses were measured at 11 levels, beginning with a line drawn perpendicular to the linea aspera at the level of the inferior border of the greater trochanter. The four quadrants (medial, lateral, anterior, posterior) differed in amount of change with age. In general, except for the relatively thick medial cortex, intertrochanteric levels showed less change than subtrochanteric levels. It is postulated that this is because the greatest remodeling activity takes place in trabecular rather than cortical bone in the intertrochanteric region. The anterior and posterior cortex showed the most regular and greatest amount of thinning with age. In males at lower levels, there was little or no loss in either medial or lateral cortex, but females showed considerable loss after the sixth decade. It is suggested that a stress-related “maintenance” factor retards cortical thinning in these quadrants. A review of the literature suggests that age-related cortical loss in the femur may have been accelerated in archaeological population, compared with modern groups.
A Monte Carlo Approach to Optical Analysis

The statistical technique of photon ray tracing, commonly known as the Monte Carlo Method, has been successfully used on numerous radiant transport problems. Because of its simplicity, the method can be applied to complex systems which are otherwise not amenable to a conventional approach such as the solution of integral-differential equations. The primary limitation of the method is the wide ranging complementary techniques necessary in reducing the amount of computations in each analysis. This paper presents such a technique that can be used in the analysis of radiant interchange. Applied to an optical system, the method can be used to solve for image quality, system attenuation, off-axis energy rejection, and thermal radiation heat transfer. Results of three demonstrative examples are also presented.
Guidelines for flash card instruction

Flash card drills provide students with a means to memorize information such as sight words, math facts, state capitols, foreign language vocabulary, and equations. Because of the utility of flash cards in educational practice, information on behavioral strategies to increase the effectiveness of their use may be especially valuable to teachers. This article provides guidelines for flash card instruction based on current research. These guidelines are to: a) intersperse known items, b) minimize errors, c) use feedback for correct and error responses, and d) select an instructional arrangement (e.g., group format) that will enhance responding. Future research may refine these guidelines to improve teaching effectiveness.
Dimer formation in alkali metal complexes of 15- and 18-Membered indole-containing lariat ether amides

Abstract Two sodium macrocyclic azaether complexes are reported. In both cases, the sidearms are attached to macroring nitrogen and derive from 4-(3-indolyl)butyric acid. These are the first alkali metal complexes of 15- or 18-membered ring crown amides. In both cases, dimer structures are observed by X-ray crystallographic analysis. Seven oxygen donors are involved in complexing Na+ in the 15-membered ring case, and a symmetrical dimer forms with the 18-membered compound. In the latter case, each Na+ ion is coordinated by 5 ether oxygens from each macrocycle and a carbonyl group from an adjacent macrocycle making Na+ 6-coordinate. In neither case does the counterion interact with the ring-bound cation.
Docking-based virtual screening for ligands of G protein-coupled receptors: Not only crystal structures but also in silico models

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) regulate a wide range of physiological functions and hold great pharmaceutical interest. Using the β(2)-adrenergic receptor as a case study, this article explores the applicability of docking-based virtual screening to the discovery of GPCR ligands and defines methods intended to improve the screening performance. Our controlled computational experiments were performed on a compound dataset containing known agonists and blockers of the receptor as well as a large number of decoys. The screening based on the structure of the receptor crystallized in complex with its inverse agonist carazolol yielded excellent results, with a clearly delineated prioritization of ligands over decoys. Blockers generally were preferred over agonists; however, agonists were also well distinguished from decoys. A method was devised to increase the screening yields by generating an ensemble of alternative conformations of the receptor that accounts for its flexibility. Moreover, a method was devised to improve the retrieval of agonists, based on the optimization of the receptor around a known agonist. Finally, the applicability of docking-based virtual screening also to homology models endowed with different levels of accuracy was proved. This last point is of uttermost importance, since crystal structures are available only for a limited number of GPCRs, and extends our conclusions to the entire superfamily. The outcome of this analysis definitely supports the application of computer-aided techniques to the discovery of novel GPCR ligands, especially in light of the fact that, in the near future, experimental structures are expected to be solved and become available for an ever increasing number of GPCRs.
Mean of the Ten Largest Nucleoli, Microcirculation Architecture, and Prognosis of Cochoroidal Melanomas

Background: Cytomorphometric measurements and the architecture of the microcirculation in tissue sections of eyes removed for ciliary body or choroidal melanomas have been identified independently as prognostically significant factors for survival. The relative significance of these two histologic features is addressed in this study. Methods: The same 234 cases used to assess the prognostic significance of the microcirculatory patterns of choroidal and ciliary body melanomas were examined by two independent observers who measured the largest diameter of melanoma cell nucleoli from digitized images at a high magnification (X3000) using the laser scanning confocal microscope. The mean of the ten largest nucleoli was calculated for each tumor according to previously published methods. Intraobserver and interobserver reproducibility was assessed for these measurements. Several Cox multiple regression models were constructed which included this cytomorphometric variable with and without the inclusion of the microcirculatory patterns. Results: There is a high degree of intraobserver reproducibility but only a weak degree of interobserver reproducibility in measuring the mean of the ten largest nucleoli. Using multiple Cox regression models, the mean of the ten largest nucleoli from each observer failed to exert any effect on outcome after enucleation, regardless of whether the presence of networks of closed vascular loops was considered in the statistical formulation. The presence of networks of closed vascular loops was found to be the most statistically dominant histologic prognostic characteristic. Conclusion: The authors have not been able to confirm the use of the mean of the ten largest nucleoli as a significant prognostic factor in the outcome of patients whose eyes have been removed for ciliary body or choroidal melanomas. Further investigation of this cytomorphometric technique by other laboratories is warranted.
Interleukin-1 modulates periprosthetic tissue formation in an intramedullary model of particle-induced inflammation.

Abstract Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a proinflammatory cytokine that has been implicated in wear-debris associated total joint replacement failure. We hypothesized that the absence of the IL-1 type-1 receptor would mitigate the inflammatory response to titanium particles and decrease periprosthetic inflammatory tissue in a murine intramedullary rod model. Methods : An intramedullary rod with and without commercially pure titanium particles was placed in the femora of 24 wild type mice (WT) and 24 mice lacking a functional type-1 receptor to IL-1. Femora were analyzed histologically and by ELISA of organ culture explant supernatants. Results : The presence of titanium particles in WT mice stimulated increased expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and macrophage chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) relative to rod only controls. In contrast, IL-6 and MCP-1 expression were diminished in IL-1r1-KO mice exposed to titanium particles. Additionally, the formation of a periprosthetic fibro-inflammatory membrane in IL-1r1-KO mice was blunted at 2 weeks when compared to that in wild-type mice. Inflammatory changes and the quality of periprosthetic bone of IL-1r1-KO mice was similar to WT mice in response to titanium particles. Conclusions : These results implicate IL-1 as an important modulator in the local inflammatory response to intramedullary titanium particles. MCP-1 appears to be significantly modulated in IL-1r1-KO mice in response to titanium particles. This may be responsible, in part, for the diminished periprosthetic membrane observed in IL-1r1-KO mice at 2 weeks. Expansion of this murine model of intramedullary particle-induced inflammation to other gene targets may contribute to a more mechanistic understanding of wear-debris associated prosthesis failure.
Progress on a general numerical method for nonlinear higher index DAEs II

A method has been proposed for numerically solving lower dimensional, nonlinear, higher index differential algebraic equations for which more classical methods such as backward differentiation or implicit Runge-Kutta may not be appropriate. This method is based on solving nonlinear DAE derivative arrays. This paper discusses progress on the implementation of this method, resolves some of the issues involved, and lists some remaining problems. Computational experience on two prescribed path control problems is presented showing that the approach should prove practical for many applications.
Adjunct divalproex or lithium to clozapine in treatment-resistant schizophrenia.

This retrospective study examined adjunct divalproex (N = 15) or lithium (N = 9) in treatment-resistant schizophrenia patients added to clozapine and compared to clozapine monotherapy (N = 25). Six month total BPRS scores were similarly improved in all treatment groups, however significantly greater improvements occurred in the first month for those on divalproex (-9) or lithium (−8) vs. clozapine alone (−4.5) (F = 3.32, df = 10.43, p = 0.0003). Rates of sedation, tachycardia, orthostasis, GI disturbances, confusion and dizziness were similar among groups. Mean weight gain was 8.7 pounds for clozapine monotherapy, 3.0 pounds in the adjunct divalproex group and 13.3 pounds in the adjunct lithium group (P = NS). A trend was noted for greater increases in blood glucose levels for those treated with adjunct lithium (F = 2.62, df = 2.28, p = 0.09). The addition of divalproex was significantly more effective in reducing global symptoms (driven by hostility and anxiety) in the first month of adjunct treatment as compared to clozapine monotherapy and to previous clozapine treatment.
Structural similarity quality metrics in a coding context: Exploring the space of realistic distortions

Perceptual image quality metrics have explicitly accounted for human visual system (HVS) sensitivity to subband noise by estimating thresholds above which distortion is just-noticeable. A recently proposed class of quality metrics, known as structural similarity (SSIM), models perception implicitly by taking into account the fact that the HVS is adapted for extracting structural information (relative spatial covariance) from images. We compare specific SSIM implementations both in the image space and the wavelet domain. We also evaluate the effectiveness of the complex wavelet SSIM (CWSSIM), a translation-insensitive SSIM implementation, in the context of realistic distortions that arise from compression and error concealment in video transmission applications. In order to better explore the space of distortions, we propose models for typical distortions encountered in video compression/transmission applications. We also derive a multi-scale weighted variant of the complex wavelet SSIM (WCWSSIM), with weights based on the human contrast sensitivity function to handle local mean shift distortions.
A local min-orthogonal method for finding multiple saddle points

Abstract The purpose of this paper is twofold. The first is to remove a possible ill-posedness related to a local minimax method developed in SIAM J. Sci. Comput. 23 (2001) 840–865, SIAM J. Sci. Comput. 24 (2002) 840–865 and the second is to provide a local characterization for nonminimax type saddle points. To do so, a local L -⊥ selection is defined and a necessary and sufficient condition for a saddle point is established, which leads to a min-orthogonal method. Those results exceed the scope of a minimax principle, the most popular approach in critical point theory. An example is given to illustrate the new theory. With this local characterization, the local minimax method in SIAM J. Sci. Comput. 23 (2001) 840–865, SIAM J. Sci. Comput. 24 (2002) 840–865 is generalized to a local min-orthogonal method for finding multiple saddle points. In a subsequent paper, this approach is applied to define a modified pseudo gradient (flow) of a functional for finding multiple saddle points in Banach spaces.
Genotype-Specific Transcriptional Regulation of PAI-1 Expression by Hypertriglyceridemic VLDL and Lp(a) in Cultured Human Endothelial Cells

The hypothesized relationships between plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1) genotypes, PAI-1 levels, and their potential regulation by hypertriglyceridemic (HTG) very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) and lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] was examined in a PAI-1 genotyped human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) culture model system. Individual human umbilical veins were used to obtain cultured ECs and were genotyped for PAI-1 by using the HindIII restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) as a marker for genetic variation. Digested genomic DNA, examined by Southern blot analysis and probed with an [alpha-32P]dCTP-labeled 2.2-kb PAI-1 cDNA, yielded three RFLPs designated 1/1 (22-kb band only), 1/2 (22-plus 18-kb bands), and 2/2 (18-kb band only). Individual PAI-1 genotyped HUVEC cultures were incubated in the absence or presence of HTG-VLDL (0 to 50 micrograms/mL) or Lp(a) (0 to 50 micrograms/mL) at 37 degrees C for various times (4 to 24 hours), followed by analyses of PAI-1 antigen (by ELISA) and mRNA (by ribonuclease protection assay) levels, EC surface-localized plasmin generation assays, and nuclear run-on transcription assays. Secreted PAI-1 antigen levels were increased approximately 2- to 3-fold by HTG-VLDL and approximately 1.6 to 2-fold by Lp(a); mRNA levels were increased approximately 3- to 4.5-fold by HTG-VLDL and approximately 2.5- to 3.2-fold by Lp(a) compared with medium-incubated controls, primarily in the 2/2 PAI-1 genotype HUVEC cultures. Increases in PAI-1 mRNA induced by HTG-VLDL or Lp(a) could be abolished by coincubation with actinomycin D (2 x 10(-6) mol/mL) or puromycin (1 microgram/mL). In addition, nuclear transcription run-on assays typically demonstrated that HTG-VLDL increased PAI-1 gene transcription rates by approximately 5- to 6-fold and approximately 4- to 5-fold, respectively, primarily in the 2/2 PAI-1 genotype HUVEC cultures compared with 1/1 PAI-1 genotype HUVEC cultures or medium-incubated controls. The positive control interleukin-1 increased both 2/2 and 1/1 PAI-1 mRNA levels by approximately 5- to 6-fold. Increased PAI-1 antigen and mRNA expression were associated with a concomitant 50% to 60% decrease in plasmin generation. These combined results demonstrate the genotype-specific regulation of PAI-1 expression by HTG-VLDL and Lp(a) and further indicate that these risk factor-associated components regulate PAI-1 gene expression at the transcriptional level in cultured HUVECs. Results from these studies further suggest that individuals with this responsive 2/2 PAI-1 genotype may reflect the additional inherent potential for later HTG-VLDL- or Lp(a)-induced fibrinolytic dysfunction, resulting in the early initiation of thrombosis, atherogenesis, and coronary artery disease.
Evidence for the presence of type I IL-1 receptors on β-cells of islets of Langerhans

Abstract The cytokine interleukin-1 β (IL-1 β ) has been shown to inhibit insulin secretion and destroy pancreatic islets by a mechanism that involves the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and the production of nitric oxide (NO). Insulin containing β -cells, selectively destroyed during the development of autoimmune diabetes, appear to be the islet cellular source of iNOS following treatment with IL-1 β . In this study we have evaluated the presence of type I IL-1 signaling receptors on purified pancreatic β -cells. We show that the interleukin-1 receptor antagonist protein (IRAP) prevents IL-1 β -induced nitrite formation and IL-1 β -induced inhibition of insulin secretion by isolated islets and primary β -cells purified by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). The protective effects of IRAP correlate with an inhibition of IL-1 β -induced iNOS expression by islets and FACS purified β -cells. To provide direct evidence to support β -cell expression of IL-1 type I signaling receptors, we show that antiserum specific for the type I IL-1 receptor neutralizes IL-1 β -induced nitrite formation by RINm5F cells, and that RINm5F cells express the type I IL-1 receptor at the protein level. Using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), the expression of type I IL-1 signaling receptors by FACS purified β -cells and not α -cells is demonstrated. These results provide direct support for the expression of type I IL-1 receptors by primary pancreatic β -cells, the cell type selectively destroyed during the development of autoimmune diabetes.
Knowledge discovery in steel bar rolling mills using scheduling data and automated inspection

There are various surface defects which occur during the hot rolling of steels. It is difficult to correctly identify and control these defects due to the different inspection techniques on different materials and sizes. Also, the statistical data analysis techniques typically used like the principal component analysis, factor analysis etc. require a lot of plant data and are computationally very intensive. Before a detailed analysis of the actual cause of the defects can be done, it is necessary to separate the defects as those coming from the continuous casting or the rolling mill. Once this is done, analysis on the individual components can then be completed to find the root cause. To accomplish both these analysis, Bayesian hierarchical modeling is done on the automated inspection of the bars to form a causal relationship of the defects to the process equipments. Variance reduction model is used at the top of the analysis and regression models are used in the next level.
Planarians in toxicology. Responses of asexual Dugesia dorotocephala to selected metals.

The planarian Dugesia dorotocephala is a freshwater invertebrate found in unpolluted flowing surface waters. Planarians have a sensitive nervous system with synapses and true brain and evidence these in a variety of social and response behaviors. The inclusion of planarians in a screening battery would provide improved sensitivity in detecting toxicity because planarians commonly respond to lower levels of contamination than do other species. Numerous toxicity test have been conducted to determine the acute and chronic effects of toxicants to provide data necessary for the development of water quality criteria. The appropriateness of Illinois water quality standards for metals was investigated using a 1-hr behavioral test based on the responses of the planarian D. dorotocephala. One possible difficulty with water quality standards for metals is that the standard for each metal is usually established without regard to the effects of other metals present in the receiving water.
The Effects of Class Size on Student Achievement: New Evidence from Population Variation

Abstract I identify the effects of class size on student achievement using longitudinal variation in the population associated with each grade in 649 elementary schools. I use variation in class size driven by idiosyncratic variation in the population. I also use discrete jumps in class size that occur when a small change in enrollment triggers a maximum or minimum class size rule. The estimates indicate that class size does not have a statistically significant effect on student achievement. I rule out even modest effects (2 to 4 percent of a standard deviation in scores for a 10 percent reduction in class size).
Group Velocity Engineering in Silicon Nanophotonic Circuits

We report over-300-fold reduction of the group velocity in photonic crystal waveguides measured with integrated Mach-Zehnder interferometer. We show fast (100ns) and efficient (2mW electric power) tunability of the group velocity with an integrated micro-heater.
Keats's Avatar

This essay explores how Keats aligns aesthetic experience and bodily sensation. Taking the bodily dimension of Keats's “camelion Poet” as a point of departure, I argue that the poems' figural language marks those affective perceptions that the conscious self cannot fully grasp, rendering the sense of their loss the basis of a new form of human identity. Reading “On Sitting Down to Read King Lear Once Again” as a meditation on this process, I conclude that Keatsian subjectivity models an aesthetic and a mode of living that resists appropriation by historical narratives, in Keats's moment and in ours.
Minocycline ameliorates LPS-induced inflammation in human monocytes by novel mechanisms including LOX-1, Nur77 and LITAF inhibition.

Abstract Background Minocycline exhibits anti-inflammatory properties independent of its antibiotic activity, ameliorating inflammatory responses in monocytes and macrophages. However, the mechanisms of minocycline anti-inflammatory effects are only partially understood. Methods Human circulating monocytes were cultured in the presence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), 50 ng/ml, and minocycline (10–40 μM). Gene expression was determined by RT-PCR, cytokine and prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 ) release by ELISA, protein expression, phosphorylation and nuclear translocation by Western blotting. Results Minocycline significantly reduced the inflammatory response in LPS-challenged monocytes, decreasing LPS-induced transcription of pro-inflammatory tumor-necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and the LPS-stimulated TNF-α, IL-6 and PGE 2 release. Minocycline inhibited LPS-induced activation of the lectin-like oxidized low density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1), NF-κB, LPS-induced TNF-α factor (LITAF) and the Nur77 nuclear receptor. Mechanisms involved in the anti-inflammatory effects of minocycline include a reduction of LPS-stimulated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) activation and stimulation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway. Conclusions We provide novel evidence demonstrating that the anti-inflammatory effects of minocycline in human monocytes include, in addition to decreased NF-κB activation, abrogation of the LPS-stimulated LOX-1, LITAF, Nur77 pathways, p38 MAPK inhibition and PI3K/Akt activation. Our results reveal that minocycline inhibits points of convergence of distinct and interacting signaling pathways mediating multiple inflammatory signals which may influence monocyte activation, traffic and recruitment into the brain. General significance Our results in primary human monocytes contribute to explain the profound anti-inflammatory and protective effects of minocycline in cardiovascular and neurological diseases and may have direct translational relevance.
Synthesis of photoactive p-azidotetrafluorophenylalanine containing peptide by solid-phase Fmoc methodology.

N-Fmoc-l-p-azidotetrafluorophenylalanine was prepared from achiral starting materials using an acetamidomalonate synthesis and enzymatic resolution. A photoactive peptide containing this fluorinated residue could be assembled using solid-phase Fmoc chemistry.
The use of glucagon in the diagnosis and management of ileocolic intussusception

Twenty-one of 25 episodes of ileocolic intussusception were successfully reduced by the barium enema hydrostatic technique supplemented by glucagon. No apparent serious complications occurred from the use of this drug. The comfort of the children and the ease of filling the colon and small bowel seemed enhanced by the glucagon.
Rainfall, ground-water flow, and seasonal movement at Minor Creek landslide, northwestern California: Physical interpretation of empirical relations

Simple ground-water flow analyses can clarify complex empirical relations between rainfall and landslide motion. Here we present detailed data on rainfall, ground-water flow, and repetitive seasonal motion that occurred from 1982 to 1985 at Minor Creek landslide in northwestern California, and we interpret these data in the context of physically based theories. We find that landslide motion is closely regulated by the direction and magnitude of near-surface hydraulic gradients and by waves of pore pressure caused by intermittent rainfall. Diffusive propagation of pore-pressure waves accompanies downward ground-water flow along nearly vertical hydraulic gradients that exist in most of the landslide. Field data combined with a pore-pressure diffusion analysis show that single rainstorms typically produce short-period waves that attenuate before reaching the landslide base. In contrast, seasonal rainfall cycles produce long-period waves that modify basal pore pressures, but only after time lags that range from weeks to months. Such tune lags can depend on antecedent moisture storage and can explain variable delays between the onset of the wet season and seasonal landslide motion. Limit-equilibrium analysis shows that when seasonal pressure waves reach the landslide base, they establish a critical distribution of effective stress that delicately triggers landslide motion. The critical effective-stress balance is extremely sensitive to the direction and magnitude of hydraulic gradients. Although pervasively downward gradients instigate seasonal motion, we infer from theory and limited data that ground water also may circulate locally in near-surface cells. The circulation can further reduce the landslide's frictional strength, particularly in areas of nearly horizontal ground-water flow that occur beneath steep faces of hummocks. Hummocky topography that results from slope instability may therefore cause ground-water flow that perpetuates instability.