cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Application of an analytical framework for multivariate mediation analysis of environmental data.

Diverse toxicological mechanisms may mediate the impact of environmental toxicants (phthalates, phenols, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and metals) on pregnancy outcomes. In this study, we introduce an analytical framework for multivariate mediation analysis to identify mediation pathways (q = 61 mediators) in the relationship between environmental toxicants (p = 38 analytes) and gestational age at delivery. Our analytical framework includes: (1) conducting pairwise mediation for unique exposure-mediator combinations, (2) exposure dimension reduction by estimating environmental risk scores, and (3) multivariate mediator analysis using either Bayesian shrinkage mediation analysis, population value decomposition, or mediation pathway penalization. Dimension reduction demonstrates that a one-unit increase in phthalate risk score is associated with a total effect of 1.07 lower gestational age (in weeks) at delivery (95% confidence interval: 0.48–1.67) and eicosanoids from the cytochrome p450 pathway mediated 26% of this effect (95% confidence interval: 4–63%). Eicosanoid products derived from the cytochrome p450 pathway may be important mediators of phthalate toxicity. Diverse toxicological mechanisms may mediate the impact of environmental toxicants on pregnancy outcomes. In this study the authors introduce an analytical framework for multivariate mediation analysis to identify mediation pathways in the relationship between environmental toxicants and gestational age at delivery.
The Research on Equivalent Model of High Voltage GIS Shell Circulation Calculation

Works based on the theory of engineering electromagnetic fields and high current busbar, study on the GIS (Gas Insulate Substation, referred to as GIS) in the steady-state model of the equivalent shell, and calculate the model parameters. Normal operation, circulation value of the shell and busbar load current is essentially the same order of magnitude. They also have a huge circulation loss and influent transmission capacity of the system. The phenomenon of heat loss also occurs at the same time of circulation loss generating. When circulation above a certain value, heat loss over heat capacity of the shell. It will lead to local heat and accelerate aging of insulation. Therefore, it is great significance for the value of the steady circulation to establish an accurate equivalent model of GIS shell. By referring to the existing home and abroad on the aspects of research about the equivalent model of the GIS shell, use the high-current busbar theory to establish an accurate equivalent model of GIS shell.
Lysosomal Acid Lipase Deficiency Controls T- and B-Regulatory Cell Homeostasis in the Lymph Nodes of Mice with Human Cancer Xenotransplants.

Utilization of proper preclinical models accelerates development of immunotherapeutics and the study of the interplay between human malignant cells and immune cells. Lysosomal acid lipase (LAL) is a critical lipid hydrolase that generates free fatty acids and cholesterol. Ablation of LAL suppresses immune rejection and allows growth of human lung cancer cells in lal−/− mice. In the lal−/− lymph nodes, the percentages of both T- and B-regulatory cells (Tregs and Bregs, respectively) are increased, with elevated expression of programmed death-ligand 1 and IL-10, and decreased expression of interferon-γ. Levels of enzymes in the glucose and glutamine metabolic pathways are elevated in Tregs and Bregs of the lal−/− lymph nodes. Pharmacologic inhibitor of pyruvate dehydrogenase, which controls the transition from glycolysis to the citric acid cycle, effectively reduces Treg and Breg elevation in the lal−/− lymph nodes. Blocking the mammalian target of rapamycin or reactivating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, an LAL downstream effector, reduces lal−/− Treg and Breg elevation and PD-L1 expression in lal−/− Tregs and Bregs, and improves human cancer cell rejection. Treatment with PD-L1 antibody also reduces Treg and Breg elevation in the lal−/− lymph nodes and improves human cancer cell rejection. These observations conclude that LAL-regulated lipid metabolism is essential to maintain antitumor immunity.
Axillary Silicone Laden Lymph Nodes: an Unusual Cause of Lymphadenopathy Case Report

Breast augmentation surgery is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries in the world. The surgery has several complications with implant rupture and deflation being some of the more common ones. We report a case of silicone laden lymph nodes 13 years after breast augmentation. The silicone laden lymph nodes resulted in bilateral breast pain and itching for several months. Findings of the silicone lymphadenopathy were discovered using ultrasound which revealed mild lobulation of the anterior left implant capsule with several punctate densities adjacent to the capsule potentially indicating implant rupture. Ultrasound of the right axilla showed lymph nodes with similar echogenicity of the silicone implant. Snowstorm appearance was also noted indicating silicone laden lymph nodes and potential extracapsular rupture which was confirmed with MRI. The intention of this case report is to bring awareness to one of the several possible complications of breast augmentation and to potentially use its presence to warrant further investigation of other breast implant rupture complications.
Telecommunications health and safety: Fighter pilot disorientation and pulsed microwave radiation from radars

The US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) announced in August 2020 a bidding for submission of innovative research proposals for concepts that would lead to better understanding of the Impact of Cockpit Electro-Magnetics on Aircrew Neurology (ICEMAN: "Iceman" also happens to be the call sign of a fighter pilot portrayed in the movie Top Gun). In its request for proposal (RFP) [1], DARPA stated that "Current cockpits are flooded with radiofrequency (RF) noise from on-board emissions, communication links, and navigation electronics, including strong electromagnetics (EM) fields from audio headsets and helmet tracking technologies."
Television viewing, physical activity and venous thromboembolism risk: The Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) Study

INTRODUCTION Television (TV) viewing may be associated with increased venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk independent of VTE risk factors including physical activity. This association was assessed in a large biracial US cohort of Black and White adults. METHODS Between 2003 and 2007 The Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) Study recruited 30,239 participants aged ≥45 years, who were surveyed for baseline TV viewing and followed for VTE events. TV viewing was categorized as <2 hours (light), 2 to 4 hours (moderate), and ≥4 hours (heavy) per day. Physical activity was classified as poor, intermediate, or ideal based on reported weekly activity. Hazard ratios of TV viewing and physical activity were calculated adjusting for VTE risk factors. Multiple imputation for missingness was used as a sensitivity analysis. RESULTS Over 96,813 person-years (median: 5.06 years) of follow-up there were 214 VTE events. Heavy TV viewing was not associated with VTE risk in the unadjusted and fully adjusted model (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 0.92 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.62, 1.36]). Ideal physical activity trended toward a reduced VTE risk (HR: 0.71 [95%CI: 0.51, 1.01]). There was no evidence of an interaction between TV viewing, physical activity, and risk of VTE. CONCLUSIONS In this contemporary racially and geographically diverse US cohort, there was no association between TV viewing and VTE risk, before and after accounting for physical activity. The high burden of traditional VTE risk factors in REGARDS may mask any association of TV viewing with VTE, or TV viewing may have only a modest association with VTE risk.
Changes in breast cancer screening rates among 32 community health centers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Background Breast cancer screening utilization steeply dropped at the start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. However, the effects on breast cancer screening in lower income populations are unknown. This study examined changes in breast cancer screening rates (BCSRs) during the pandemic among 32 community health centers (CHCs) that provided health care to lower income populations. Methods Secondary data from 32 CHCs participating in an American Cancer Society grant program to increase breast cancer screening services were used. BCSRs were defined as the percentage of women aged 50 to 74 years who had a medical visit in the past 12 months (142,207 in 2018, 142,003 in 2019, and 150,630 in 2020) and received a screening mammogram within the last 27 months. BCSRs in July 2020, July 2019, and June 2018 were compared with screening rate ratios (SRRs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results BCSRs significantly rose by 18% between 2018 and 2019 (from 45.8% to 53.9%; SRR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.17-1.18) and then declined by 8% between 2019 and 2020 (from 53.9% to 49.6%; SRR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.92-0.93). If the 2018-2019 BCSR trends had continued through 2020, 63.3% of women would have been screened in 2020 in contrast to the 49.6% who were; this potentially translated into 47,517 fewer mammograms and 242 missed breast cancer diagnoses in this population. Conclusions In this study of 32 CHCs, BCSRs declined by 8% from July 2019 to 2020, and this reversed an 18% improvement between July 2018 and 2019. Declining BCSRs among CHCs during the COVID-19 pandemic call for policies to support and resources to identify women in need of screening.
Reliability of the global NASCOM network.

Transmission media reliability is an extremely important factor in the design and operation of a real-time communications network. It has had a profound effect not only on the configuration design of the NASCOM network itself, but on the philosophy of command/control of all NASA spacecraft, manned and unmanned. In an effort to obtain the highest possible level of circuit reliability and performance, goals or criteria have been established for each type of circuit. Also, special management techniques have been used in an effort to improve circuit reliability. The results of these efforts, as well as general technological improvements in the transmission media, are illustrated by showing measured composite circuit reliability over the past nine years and actual circuit performance measured during Apollo 8 through 15.
Workforce-efficient consensus in crowdsourced transcription of biocollections information

Crowdsourcing can be a cost-effective method for tackling the problem of digitizing historical biocollections data, and a number of crowdsourcing platforms have been developed to facilitate interaction with the public and to design simple "Human Intelligence Tasks". However, the problem of reaching consensus on the response of the crowd is still challenging for tasks for which a simple majority vote is inadequate. This paper (a) describes the challenges faced when trying to reach consensus on data transcribed by different workers, (b) offers consensus algorithms for textual data, (c) implements a consensus-based controller to assign a dynamic number of workers per task and per field of a task, (d) proposes the use of clustering to further eliminate redundant work and (e) proposes enhancements of future crowdsourcing task assignments in order to minimize the need for complex consensus algorithms. Experiments using the proposed algorithms show multifold increase in the ability to reach consensus when compared to majority voting using exact string matching. In addition, the workforce controller is able to decrease the crowdsourcing cost per task and per task field by 37% and 50%, respectively, when compared to a strategy that uses a fixed number of workers. The accuracy of clustering is also good and it has the potential to increase the quality of tasks that can be clustered. We describe the challenges faced when trying to reach consensus on data transcribed by different workers.We offer consensus algorithms for textual data.We implement a consensus-based controller to assign a dynamic number of workers per task and per field of a task.We propose the use of clustering to further eliminate redundant work.We propose enhancements of future crowdsourcing task assignments in order to minimize the need for complex consensus algorithms.
Priority Queues, Pairing, and Adaptive Sorting

We introduce Binomialsort, an adaptive sorting algorithm that is optimal with respect to the number of inversions. The number of comparisons performed by Binomialsort, on an input sequence of length n that has I inversions, is at most 2n log I/n + O(n). The bound on the number of comparisons is further reduced to 1.89n log I/n + O(n) by using a new structure, which we call trinomial queues. The fact that the algorithm is simple and relies on fairly simple structures makes it a good candidate in practice.
Ground-state degeneracy for Abelian anyons in the presence of gapped boundaries

Gapped phases with long-range entanglement may admit gapped boundaries. If the boundary is gapped, the ground-state degeneracy is well defined and can be computed using methods of topological quantum field theory. We derive a general formula for the ground-state degeneracy for Abelian fractional quantum Hall phases, including the cases when connected components of the boundary are subdivided into an arbitrary number of segments, with a different boundary condition on each segment, and in the presence of an arbitrary number of boundary domain walls.
The depletion and regeneration of dissolution-active sites at the mineral-water interface:: I. Fe, Al, and In sesquioxides

Abstract The responses of α-Al 2 O 3 and In 2 O 3 dissolution rates to pH-jumps in flow-through reactors are compared to previous results for α-Fe 2 O 3 in order to test the following hypothesis: because the same fundamental processes of ligand exchange and detachment of metal centers govern both steady state and nonsteady state dissolution, both the steady state and nonsteady state dissolution rates of these sesquioxides correlate with the water exchange rates of the corresponding aqueous ions. Our results show that steady state dissolution rates at pH 1 for α-Fe 2 O 3 , α-Al 2 O 3 , and In 2 O 3 correlate with the rates of water exchange. Nonsteady state dissolution rates, in response to jumps to pH 1 from higher initial pH values at which the oxides had been aged, also correlate with water exchange rates although in a complicated way. The amount of solute dissolved during nonsteady state dissolution increases with increasing initial pH, and is consistent with the depletion at low pH and regeneration at higher pH of a reservoir of surface sites active for dissolution at pH 1. This suggests that the oxide surfaces must be sufficiently kinetically dynamic at circumneutral pH for processes to occur that result in the creation of dissolution-active sites. The pH dependence of the amount of solute released can be related to rates of active site production and dissolution, using the idea that hydroxylation of the mineral surface with increasing solution pH has a labilizing effect on the rates of ligand exchange at a surface metal center similar to the labilizing effect of hydrolysis on the rates of water exchange for aquaions.
The Role of Learning Progressions in Standards-Based Education Reform

The Role of Learning Progressions in Standards-Based Education Reform written by Frederic A. Mosher, summarizes findings from two reports examining the concepts of learning progressions and learning trajectories as they are being applied in science and mathematics education. This policy brief reviews conclusions from the two extensive reports and discusses the implications of their findings for policy and for future research and development. Disciplines Education Policy | Science and Mathematics Education Comments View on the CPRE website. This policy brief is available at ScholarlyCommons: http://repository.upenn.edu/cpre_policybriefs/40 Consortium for Policy Research in Education University of Pennsylvania Teachers College Columbia University
Biosynthesis of starch in Chlorella pyrenoidosa. I. Purification and properties of the adenosine diphosphoglucose: alpha-1, 4-glucan, alpha-4-glucosyl transferase from Chlorella.

Abstract The adenosine diphosphoglucose: α1 → 4 glucan transferase of Chlorella pyrenoidosa was purified 25-fold. Of a number of sugar nucleotides tested, only ADP-glucose and deoxy-ADP-glucose could serve as glucosyl donors. A number of α1 → 4 glucans can serve as primers for the reaction. Amylose or amylopectin were more effective than glycogen as acceptors of glucose from the sugar nucleotides. The enzyme had a pH optimum of 9.0 and was inhibited by p-chloromercuribenzoate. Glycolytic intermediates had no stimulatory effect on the transferase. The properties of this transferase were compared with the properties of other plant and bacterial AD Pglucose:α-1,4-glucan transferases.
Effective use of captopril in postoperative paradoxical hypertension of coarctation of the aorta

Severe systemic hypertension may complicate the postoperative course of patients undergoing surgical repair for coarctation of the aorta. The sympathetic and the renin-angiotensin systems have been demonstrated as underlying mechanisms for this paradoxical phenomenon (Farrell et al., 1979; Rocchini et al., 1979). We recently utilized captopril, a competitive inhibitor of angiotensin converting enzyme, with success in the management of severe hypertension that developed in a 15-year-old male after successful surgical repair for coarctation of the aorta. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the use of captopril for the treatment of this paradoxical phenomenon.
Future Penetration of Academic Electronic Journals: Four Scenarios

The introduction of the World Wide Web presented changes in the world of academic publishing. Publishers are looking for alternatives to the traditional text-based, paper-based manuscript. Since the mid 1990's, the number of academic electronic journals increased from less than a 100 to several thousands. However, the extent of the penetration of academic electronic journals and the final form they will assume is unclear. This article introduces four scenarios. The scenarios describe four possible forms of academic journals and are based on the economic viability of electronic journals and their acceptance. The scenarios include status quo, replacement, co-existence, and ubiquitous outcomes for academic journals. It is shown that if the ubiquitous scenario occurs, a number of issues must be resolved which are independent of individual journals. These universal issues include the reliability of the infrastructure, long-term sustainability, and backwards integration. Unintended consequences are also examined.
The Polymerization of Actin

To my mind, the union of the independently successful disciplines of morphology, ultrastructure and biochemistry into a highly productive cell biochemistry is the most exciting development in cell biology since the previous International Congress. We have now begun the serious study of the chemical and enzymatic compositions of structural elements and the influence of organization on biological function. Moreover, I believe there is now wide acceptance of the view that to understand the molecular mechanisms that regulate complex cellular events it is necessary to purify the individual proteins and study their properties alone and in systems reconstituted under carefully controlled conditions. It is this that I call cell biochemistry: the application of the experimental approaches developed by the biochemist to the structures and activities observed by the cell biologist.
Examining electrodermal hyporeactivity as a marker of externalizing psychopathology: a twin study.

Literature suggests that reduced electrodermal reactivity (EDR) is related to externalizing problems. However, the genetic and environmental etiology of this association is unknown. Using a standard habituation paradigm, we measured responses to 15 loud tones in four cohorts of adolescent twins (N = 2,129). We quantified EDR as the average size of elicited responses (amplitude) and by counting the number of skin conductance responses (frequency). Externalizing liability was indexed through a general factor underlying substance-related problems and antisocial behavior. Response frequency, but not mean amplitude, was inversely associated with externalizing liability in each twin cohort. Biometric modeling revealed that most of the overlap between response frequency and externalizing liability was due to genetic influences common to both phenotypes. It is argued that neurological mechanisms involved in habituation may shed light on the etiology of psychopathology.
Modal and Nonmodal Growths of Symmetric Perturbations in Unbounded Domain

Abstract Modal and nonmodal growths of nonhydrostatic symmetric perturbations in an unbounded domain are examined in comparison with their hydrostatic counterparts. It is shown that the modal growth rate is a function of a single internal parameter s, the slope of the cross-band wave pattern. The maximum nonmodal growth of total perturbation energy norm is produced, also as a function of s, by an optimal combination of one geostrophic neutral mode and two paired nongeostrophic growing and decaying (or propagating) modes in the unstable (or stable) region. The hydrostatic approximation inflates the maximum modal growth rate significantly (or boundlessly) as the basic-state Richardson number Ri is small (or → 0) and inflates the maximum nonmodal growth rate significantly (or boundlessly) as |s| is large (or → ∞). Inside the unstable region, the maximum nonmodal growth scaled by the modal growth is a bounded increasing function of growth time τ but reduces to 1 at (Ri, s) = (¼, −2) where the three modes beco...
Calibrating Raman spectrometers with plasma lines from the argon ion laser

The majority of the plasma lines of the argon ion laser are shown to be transitions of the argon ion. These lines are useful for calibrating Raman spectrometers. A table is given of the plasma lines, including relative intensities, wavelengths (in standard air), wavenumber (in vacuo), and wavenumber shifts relative to the 488.0 and 514.5 nm laser lines. Spectra showing the relative intensities of these lines are also shown.
Autonomous Decision Making with Uncertainty for an Urban Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Scenario

In this paper, we consider an urban ISR scenario where a human operator is tasked to provide feedback regarding the nature of some objects of interest. The feedback is relayed to the stochastic controller of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), which must determine an appropriate mission plan. A small (unmanned) aerial vehicle (SAV) loiters at a high altitude where it may survey a large territory. An operator decides which objects in the SAV’s field of view are of interest and which are not. Then a team of micro (unmanned) aerial vehicles (MAVs) is assigned individual tours to inspect the objects of interest at a low altitude. As a MAV flies over an object of interest, the operator must decide if the object has a feature that uniquely distinguishes it as a target. The key parameters are the operator’s response and the time taken for the operator to respond. The controller uses these parameters to compute the expected information gain of a revisit. In previous studies automatic target recognition (ATR) was used for making some decisions in the SAV and the MAVs. This paper investigates the use of human feedback alone for target recognition. Different methods for calculating expected information gain are examined and compared. In addition, results from a flight test of this controller are presented.
Gevrey's and trace regularity of a semigroup associated with beam equation and non-monotone boundary conditions

Abstract The main aim of the paper is to present a technique that allows to infer wellposedness, trace and Gevrey's regularity of hyperbolic-like PDE's with non-monotone boundary conditions. The lack of monotonicity prevents applicability of the known semigroup methods. In this paper we show how recently developed tools of microlocal analysis [D. Tataru, A priori estimates of Carleman's type in domains with boundary, J. Math. Pure Appl. 73 (1994) 353–387] combined with some spectral theory can be used successfully in order to obtain the needed inequalities. The method will be illustrated on a simple example of beam equation with non-monotone boundary conditions.
Multiple sclerosis intra-blood-brain-barrier IgG synthesis: effect of pulse intravenous and intrathecal corticosteroids

Nine severely disabled clinically definite chronic progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) patients who had at least one determination of intra-blood-brain-barrier (BBB) IgG synthesis rate of greater than 7 mg/day (upper limit of normal=3.3) participated in this study. Seven patients were given 1 gram of methylprednisolone sodium succinate (MP) by intravenous infusion over 30 minutes once a day for 3 days. Statistically significant (p<.05) reduction in intra-BBB IgG synthesis (mg/day) was seeen in 4/7 patients, but in only 2 were normal levels of synthesis rate (<3.3 mg/day) attained. Rebound of IgG synthesis to premedication rates occurred within 30 days in 2/4 patients. There was no change in intensity or pattern of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) oligoclonal IgG bands by isoelectric focusing, immunofixation, and silver staining. A subsequent course of intrathecal methylprednisolone acetate (MPA) (80 mg twice a week for 5 weeks) was given to 5 of the 7 patients and to 2 additional patients not previously treated. In spite of signs of subarachnoid inflammation, a statistically significant depression of intra-BB synthesis, which far exceeded that from the pulse treatment occurred in all 7, including the 2 patients whose intra-BBB IgG synthesis rates were previously resistant to pulse steroid administration. Normal levels of synthesis were rapidly reached in 4/7 patients; however, an IgG synthesis rebound occurred in 3/7 patiens which was just as rapid. One out of 7 patients showed a temporary reduction in the number of cathodic IgG oligoclonal bands in the CSF. Two patients required discontinuation of treatment due to aseptic meningitis in one and progressive weakness in the other. Clinically, these severely afflicted patients with fixed deficits remained unchanged with either treatment protocol. While MPA and ACTH have similar initial effect on the central nervous systems (CNS) inflammatory response in MS, the well documented risk of serious adversities with MPA prohibit its clinical use in MS in its present form.
Echocardiographic assessment of left ventricular geometry and the mitral valve apparatus in cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Abstract Objectives This retrospective study addressed the general hypothesis that abnormalities of the mitral valve apparatus are common in cats with idiopathic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and contribute to dynamic obstruction of the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT). Animals, materials and methods 106 cats (28 controls and 78 with HCM) had transthoracic two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography performed with quantification of 33 variables. Three groups of cats (control [Group-1], HCM without obstruction [Group-2], and HCM with obstruction [Group-3]) were identified and compared by analysis of variance, χ 2 analysis, and correlation analysis. Results Cats in Group-3 had more LV and papillary muscle hypertrophy, increased length of the anterior mitral valve leaflet, and a higher prevalence of false tendons in the LVOT compared to cats in Group-2 ( P ≤ 0.05). The length of the anterior mitral valve leaflet was correlated to the severity of dynamic obstruction ( P ≤ 0.05) and the magnitude of LV hypertrophy ( P ≤ 0.001). Systolic anterior motion of chordae tendineae (CAM) was observed in 16% of control cats and >50% of cats with HCM ( P ≤ 0.05). Conclusions Abnormalities of the mitral valve are common in cats with HCM suggesting a possible role in the pathogenesis of dynamic outflow tract obstruction.
Mathematics Sent Across the Channel and the Atlantic : British Mathematical Contributions to European and American Scientific Journals, 1835-1900

Summary This paper will consider the range of British participation in mathematics internationally during the nineteenth century through an analysis of British mathematical contributions to scientific journals outside of Britain. Viewing scientific papers contained in journals as significant indicators of research, we consider scientists who authored or read and responded in print to papers in a given area within a given group of journals to constitute a publication community. The extent of publication by British mathematicians in these journals can help characterize the role of foreign publication in nineteenth-century British mathematics. Moreover, the isolation of educational, societal, and personal circumstances which motivated British mathematicians to present their work to foreign journals highlights limited but concentrated groups of mathematicians committed to developing and strengthening international mathematical ties with Britain.
CYTOTOXIC CHEMOTHERAPY FOR ADVANCED HORMONE-RESISTANT PROSTATE CANCER

Background. Advanced adenocarcinoma of the prostate after hormonal manipulation has been noted to be a relatively chemotherapeutic nonresponsive tumor. Earlier reviews have reported objective responses, that is, complete and partial remissions in 6.5% of 3184 patients, and the current review examines the efficacy of new agents. Methods. The current review consists of 26 new drug trials culled from papers and abstracts published between 1987-1991. Results. Results of these 26 drug trials found a similar trend, 8.7% (95% confidence interval, 6.4-9.0%), indicating that hormone-resistant adenocarcinoma of the prostate still fails to respond to most cytotoxic agents
Spin-wave analysis of ferromagnetic resonance in polycrystalline ferrites

Abstract A theory of ferromagnetic resonance is developed in which dipolar interaction is taken into account by means of the spin-wave formalism. Due to crystalline anisotropy and the poly-crystalline character of the material, the homogeneous mode of precession interacts with spin waves whose wavelength is of the order of, or larger than, the average linear grain size. The moments of the absorption line are calculated for the case of vanishingly small single-crystal linewidths. Linewidth and lineshift due to crystalline anisotropy are calculated by a perturbation-like approach in which interactions which do not involve the homogeneous mode are neglected. The theory predicts a very strong frequency- and shape-dependence of the linewidth for the case in which the homogeneous mode is approximately degenerate with long-wavelength spin waves propagating in directions perpendicular to the d.c. field.
Alternative Medicine Research in Clinical Practice: A US National Survey

Background Little is known about whether federally funded complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) research is translating into clinical practice. We sought to describe the awareness of CAM clinical trials, the ability to interpret research results, the acceptance of research evidence, and the predictors of trial awareness among US clinicians. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional mailed survey of 2400 practicing US acupuncturists, naturopaths, internists, and rheumatologists. Results A total of 1561 clinicians (65%) responded. Of the respondents, 59% were aware of at least 1 major CAM clinical trial; only 23% were aware of both trials. A minority of acupuncturists (20%), naturopaths (25%), internists (17%), and rheumatologists (33%) were “very confident” in interpreting research results ( P P P P Conclusion For clinical research in CAM to achieve its social value, concerted efforts must be undertaken to train clinicians and improve the dissemination of research results.
Dose calculation for electron therapy using an improved LBR method.

Purpose: To calculate the percentage depth dose (PDD) of any irregularly shaped electron beam using a modified lateral build-up ratio (LBR) method. Methods: Percentage depth dose curves were measured using 6, 9, 12, and 15 MeV electron beam energies for applicator cone sizes of 6 × 6, 10 × 10, 14 × 14, and 20 × 20 cm2. Circular cutouts for each cone were prepared from 2.0 cm diameter to the maximum possible size for each cone. In addition, three irregular cutouts were prepared. Results: The LBR for each circular cutout was calculated from the measured PDD curve using the open field of the 14 × 14 cm2 cone as the reference field. Using the LBR values and the radius of the circular cutouts, the corresponding lateral spread parameter [σ R (z)] of the electron shower was calculated. Unlike the commonly accepted assumption that σ R (z) is independent of cutout size, it is shown that its value increases linearly with circular cutout size (R). Using this characteristic of the lateral spread parameter, the PDD curves of irregularly shaped cutouts were calculated. Finally, the calculated PDD curves were compared with measured PDD curves. Conclusions: In this research, it is shown that the lateral spread parameter σ R (z) increases with cutout size. For radii of circular cutout sizes up to the equilibrium range of the electron beam, the increase of σ R (z) with the cutout size is linear. The percentage difference of the calculated PDD curve from the measured PDD data for irregularly shaped cutouts was under 1.0% in the region between the surface and therapeutic range of the electron beam. Similar results were obtained for four electron beam energies (6, 9, 12, and 15 MeV).
Effect of measurement geometry on weak localization in short wires.

The effect of measurement-probe geometry on the weak-localization magnetoresistance of short silver wires is investigated. The wires have lengths comparable to the electron phase coherence length l/sub phi/, which is a few microns at 1 K. The influence of different probe geometries is seen directly in the magnitude and shape of the low-field magnetoresistance of these wires. We have extended the theory of weak localization to include the effects of the measurement geometry, and find good quantitative agreement with experiment.
Generation of specific antibodies and their use to characterize sex differences in four rat P450 3A enzymes following vehicle and pregnenolone 16α-carbonitrile treatment

Abstract The purpose of this study was to identify isozyme-specific antibodies and use them to determine the expression levels of four P450 3A enzymes in the livers of vehicle- and pregnenolone 16α-carbonitrile (PCN)-treated rats of both sexes, since previous work on mRNA levels has shown considerable sexual dimorphism. Using Western blot analysis with four isozyme-specific antibodies, we show that P450 3A1, 3A2, and 3A9 were expressed in vehicle-treated adult female rats at very low levels whereas P450 3A18 was not detected. PCN treatment of females strongly induced the expression of P450 3A1 in the livers with protein product increases of 214-, 3-, and 5-fold for P450 3A1, 3A2, and 3A9, respectively, and P450 3A18 was induced to 3.7 pmol/mg protein. In contrast, all four P450 3As were detected in livers of vehicle-treated males, in the order of 3A2 ≫ 3A18 > 3A9 ≅ 3A1. The protein product increases induced by PCN treatment of male rats were 92-, 3-, 6-, and 16-fold for P450 3A1, 3A2, 3A9, and 3A18, respectively.
Different subcellular storage sites for decidual- and pituitary-derived prolactin: possible explanation for differences in regulation

The intracellular sites of storage for human decidual- and pituitary-derived prolactins have been determined by measuring the hormones in subcellular fractions following differential and density gradient centrifugations. In decidual tissue, 78 ± 4% (mean ± SE, n = 5) of the prolactin was detected in the post-microsomal supernatant, while 98% of the prolactin in the pituitary was detected in mitochondrial and microsomal particulate fractions. Following centrifugation on sucrose density gradients, decidual prolactin was distributed diffusely throughout the gradients, while greater than 90% of the pituitary prolactin sedimented as a single peak with a mean density of 1.22 g/cm3. These studies indicate that, unlike pituitary prolactin, decidual prolactin is not stored in secretory granules. Differences in the intracellular storage sites of decidual and pituitary prolactins may explain observed differences in the regulation of prolactin secretion by decidual and pituitary tissues.
Synthetic strategy: Moving backwards in new ways

Pattern mapping is a synthetic tactic that is complementary to standard retrosynthetic analysis. When combined with the concept of traceless stereochemical guidance, it leads to an efficient synthesis of the steroidal natural product (±)-aplykurodinone-1.
The Clinical Application of Kaplan’s Cardinal Line as a Surface Marker for the Superficial Palmar Arch

We feel the original description of Kaplan’s cardinal line provides a more accurate reference point to the superficial palmar arterial arch. We sought to anatomically correlate the relationship of Kaplan’s cardinal line to the superficial palmar arch. Sixty hands (30 cadavers) were dissected after Kaplan’s original description was drawn on each hand. Measurements we made from Kaplan’s cardinal line to the superficial palmar arch at both the radial and ulnar borders of the ring finger. The superficial palmar arterial arch was an average of 10.4 and 11.8 mm from the radial and ulnar borders of the ring finger with standard deviations of roughly 4 mm for each measurement. Clinically, Kaplan’s cardinal line is a more predictable landmark for the superficial palmar arch. In referencing this landmark as the distal most extent of an open or endoscopic carpal tunnel release, the superficial palmar arch should be free of transection.
Low-pressure studies of the isothermal compressibilities and specific volumes of organic liquids

Abstract The Spinco E analytical ultracentrifuge has been used to determine the isothermal compressibilities and specific volumes of a series of 13 organic liquids at pressures from 0.1 to 10 MPa at 293.15 and 298.15 K. Trends in the results suggest that rigidity of molecular structure decreases compressibility. Cyclization of C 6 compounds decreases compressibility.
A regional-scale study of chromium and nickel in soils of northern California, USA

Abstract A soil geochemical survey was conducted in a 27,000-km 2 study area of northern California that includes the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the Sacramento Valley, and the northern Coast Range. The results show that soil geochemistry in the Sacramento Valley is controlled primarily by the transport and weathering of parent material from the Coast Range to the west and the Sierra Nevada to the east. Chemically and mineralogically distinctive ultramafic (UM) rocks (e.g. serpentinite) outcrop extensively in the Coast Range and Sierra Nevada. These rocks and the soils derived from them have elevated concentrations of Cr and Ni. Surface soil samples derived from UM rocks of the Sierra Nevada and Coast Range contain 1700–10,000 mg/kg Cr and 1300–3900 mg/kg Ni. Valley soils west of the Sacramento River contain 80–1420 mg/kg Cr and 65–224 mg/kg Ni, reflecting significant contributions from UM sources in the Coast Range. Valley soils on the east side contain 30–370 mg/kg Cr and 16–110 mg/kg Ni. Lower Cr and Ni concentrations on the east side of the valley are the result of greater dilution by granitic sources of the Sierra Nevada. Chromium occurs naturally in the Cr(III) and Cr(VI) oxidation states. Trivalent Cr is a non-toxic micronutrient, but Cr(VI) is a highly soluble toxin and carcinogen. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy of soils with an UM parent show Cr primarily occurs within chromite and other mixed-composition spinels (Al, Mg, Fe, Cr). Chromite contains Cr(III) and is highly refractory with respect to weathering. Comparison of a 4-acid digestion (HNO 3 , HCl, HF, HClO 4 ), which only partially dissolves chromite, and total digestion by lithium metaborate (LiBO 3 ) fusion, indicates a lower proportion of chromite-bound Cr in valley soils relative to UM source soils. Groundwater on the west side of the Sacramento Valley has particularly high concentrations of dissolved Cr ranging up to 50 μg L −1 and averaging 16.4 μg L −1 . This suggests redistribution of Cr during weathering and oxidation of Cr(III)-bearing minerals. It is concluded that regional-scale transport and weathering of ultramafic-derived constituents have resulted in enrichment of Cr and Ni in the Sacramento Valley and a partial change in the residence of Cr.
Evaluation of Wildlife Warning Reflectors for Altering White‐Tailed Deer Behavior Along Roadways

Abstract We evaluated the behavioral responses of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) to 4 colors of wildlife warning reflectors (red, white, blue-green, and amber) that are purported to reduce the incidence of deer–vehicle collisions. We observed white-tailed deer behaviors relative to roads before and after installation of wildlife warning reflectors using a forward-looking infrared camera during 90 observation nights. We concluded that wildlife warning reflectors were ineffective in changing deer behavior such that deer–vehicle collisions might be prevented.
Somatic sensory transmission to the cortex during movement: Phasic modulation over the locomotor step cycle

Abstract We determined whether or not information transmitted through sensory pathways to the primary somatosensory (SI) cortex is selectively gated over the step cycle in locomotion. Moment-to-moment changes in the potential for sensory transmission through the afferent pathways to these cells were tested by delivering test stimuli through electrodes chronically implanted in the skin of the palm during different phases of the step cycle. The averaged intensities of these neural responses were calculated and plotted sequentially in a “perifootfall sensory gating histogram.” The results showed that the sensory responsiveness of all cells studied was strongly diminished when averaged for the whole step cycle, but most cells also exhibited short, phasic periods of facilitation (or “disinhibition”) of afferent input. We found that the group of neurons (described in the previous paper) that responded strongly when the forepaw touched the ground at footfall did so because they were phasically facilitated just before the footfall event, but were suppressed during all other phases. Conversely, the sensory inputs to the group of cells which did not respond to footfall were either tonically suppressed throughout the whole step cycle or were facilitated during the early swing phase. For this reason, these latter cells responded to touch of the area of their forepaw receptive fields with a hand-held probe during the swing phase of locomotion but did not respond to footfall. These results suggest that the afferent sensory pathways arising to the rat SI cortex may be subject to a gating process which is temporally specific.
Mechanism of protection by soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibition in type 2 diabetic stroke

Inhibition of soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) is a potential target of therapy for ischemic injury. sEH metabolizes neuroprotective epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs). We recently demonstrated that sEH inhibition reduces infarct size after middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in type 1 diabetic mice. We hypothesized that inhibition of sEH would protect against ischemic injury in type 2 diabetic mice. Type 2 diabetes was produced by combined high-fat diet, nicotinamide and streptozotocin in male mice. Diabetic and control mice were treated with vehicle or the sEH inhibitor t-AUCB then subjected to 60-min MCAO. Compared to chow-fed mice, high fat diet-fed mice exhibited an upregulation of sEH mRNA and protein in brain, but no differences in brain EETs levels were observed between groups. Type 2 diabetic mice had increased blood glucose levels at baseline and throughout ischemia, decreased laser-Doppler perfusion of the MCA territory after reperfusion, and sustained larger cortical infarcts compared to control mice. t-AUCB decreased fasting glucose levels at baseline and throughout ischemia, improved cortical perfusion after MCAO and significantly reduced infarct size in diabetic mice. We conclude that sEH inhibition, as a preventative treatment, improves glycemic status, post-ischemic reperfusion in the ischemic territory, and stroke outcome in type 2 diabetic mice.
Distribution and variation of hemagglutinating activity in the hemolymph of Biomphalaria glabrata.

Abstract A sensitive hemagglutination assay utilizing glutaraldehyde-fixed trypsinized calf erythrocytes (GTC) is described to test for agglutinin levels in hemolymph and albumen gland extracts from nine populations of Biomphalaria glabrata , and from B. straminea and B. obstructa . High levels of GTC-reactive hemagglutinin were found in all snail populations. There was no correlation between hemagglutinin titer and innate resistance of B. glabrata strains to Schistosoma mansoni . However, an increase in hemagglutinin titer occurs in B. glabrata M-RLc snails infected with Echinostoma lindoense and in snails sensitized and reexposed to this parasite.
Transient x-ray laser schemes at 1 um and at 2 um

The development of a pump laser for X-ray lasers which operates at wavelengths longer than 1 {mu} would permit the attainment of higher electron temperatures for a given pump intensity. Such a system would be of interest for electron collisional schemes at low Z, and would have the potential to improve the overall system efficiency. An initial design for an optical parametric oscillator which would down-convert 1 {mu} radiation to 2 {mu} is presented.
A method for the simultaneous quantitative estimation of cytochromes a, b, c1, and c in mitochondria

Abstract A method has been developed for quantitatively estimating the 4 cytochromes a, b, c 1 , and c simultaneously in a single mitochondrial sample. Only 0.5–1.0 mμmole of each cytochrome is necessary for the analysis. The difference spectrum of the mitochondrial sample (reduced vs. oxidized) is recorded in the presence of desoxycholate to clarify the mitochondria. Knowing the contributions in absorbancy of each cytochrome to the major maxima and minima of each of the other cytochromes, a set of 4 simultaneous equations in 4 unknowns can be derived. A simplified procedure for the solution of these equations is presented. Checks on the validity of the values for the cytochrome concentrations thus obtained have been carried out. These procedures include recovery of added purified cytochromes, quenching of the difference spectra of purified cytochromes and their hemochromogens from the difference spectra of the mitochondria and of the mitochondrial hemochromogens, exhaustive extraction of cytochrome c by 0.9% KCl, extraction of the heme of cytochrome b and subsequent analysis of the heme as its pyridine hemochromogen, and direct calculation of cytochrome a concentration from the hemochromogen spectrum of the mitochondria. The average values for recovery or percentage of each mitochondrial cytochrome accounted for in the validity studies were 105% for cytochrome a, 95% for cytochrome b, 101% for cytochrome c 1 , and 100% for cytochrome c, with an over-all average of 101%.