cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neuronal nitric oxide synthase in the canine prostate : Aging, sex steroid, and pathology correlations

Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is expressed in the prostate of various species, including humans. NOS catalyzes the production of nitric oxide (NO), which may function in prostatic smooth-muscle relaxation. To investigate further the role of NO in the prostate, we examined neuronal NOS expression in the aging canine prostate, after hormonal perturbation, and correlated these results with histopathologic findings. The study comprised the following treatment groups: intact dogs (treatment group 1, n = 6); dogs who were castrated at 7 days of age and received testosterone and estrogen replacement at 2 years of age (treatment group 2, n = 10); and dogs who were castrated at 2 years of age and received testosterone and estrogen replacement at 2 years of age (treatment group 3, n = 9). Studies were done on prostates removed from dogs after euthanasia at 6 years of age. In treatment group 1, complex benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) was observed in all specimens. In treatment group 2, atrophy was observed in 70%, normal prostate with small areas of hyperplasia in 20%, and BPH in 10% of specimens. In treatment group 3, atrophy was observed in 78%, normal histology with small areas of hyperplasia in 11%, and BPH in 11% of specimens. Neuronal NOS localizations were confirmed by western blot analysis and by immunohistochemistry in 0% and 17%, respectively, of specimens in treatment group 1, in 60% and 70%, respectively, of specimens in treatment group 2, and in 67% and 71%, respectively, of specimens in treatment group 3. Neuronal NOS immunoreactivity was localized in histologically normal prostates of four intact, young-adult control dogs (2 years of age). For all treatment groups, neuronal NOS immunoreactivity was confirmed by western blot in 86% of atrophic prostates but in no prostates with BPH (P < 0.001), and it was confirmed by immunohistochemistry in 75% of atrophic prostates but in only 13% of prostates with BPH (P < 0.02). These data suggest that, in the canine prostate, NO release relates to growth and pathology. Low levels of neuronal NOS expression in BPH tissue, compared with higher levels in atrophic tissue, suggest that neuronal NOS expression is down-regulated in the prostate with benign cellular proliferation whereas it is maintained or possibly up-regulated in the prostate with prostatic involution. Whether altered neuronal NOS expression contributes to the pathogeneses of BPH and prostatic involution or whether it occurs as a consequence of these processes requires further investigation.
Novel inflammatory CSF biomarkers strongly predict medial temporal atrophy and cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease

Background Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by rapid medial temporal lobe (MTL) atrophy and memory loss. These effects are partly induced by chronic neuroinflammation. No study has examined which neuroinflammatory biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), differ most across the AD spectrum and best predict MTL atrophy and memory decline. Methods 287 AD Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) participants were assessed. In baseline CSF, nine candidate biomarkers were available in > 90% of participants using mass spectrometry multiplex data (Complement 3; Alpha-1-antitrypsin; CD14; Interleukin-18; YPL-40; Osteopontin; CRP; neuronal pentraxin 1, or NPTX1; NPTX2). MTL atrophy and memory performance were assessed over 24 months. Stepwise regression selected biomarkers that best distinguished non-AD ( n = 86), prodromal AD ( n = 135), and AD ( n = 66), as well as atrophy by 24 months. Linear mixed models regressed selected biomarkers against atrophy and memory performance over time. Results YPL-40 and NPTX2 were selected, which are respectively biomarkers of microglial activation and neuronal inflammatory regulation and synaptogenesis. AD versus non-AD participants had significantly more YPL-40 and less NPTX2. Biomarker ∗ Time interactions showed higher NPTX2 predicted less atrophy ( R 2 = 0.294 ) and higher memory factor scores ( R 2 = 0.560 ) by month 24. Higher YPL-40 modestly predicted more atrophy ( R 2 = 0.059 ) and lower memory factor scores ( R 2 = 0.040 ) by month 24. Conclusions NPTX2 is lower in AD and surprisingly predicts lower atrophy and memory decline. NPTX2 may be a protective factor inhibiting chronic neuroinflammation.
A Value Framework for Cancer Screening: Advice for High-Value Care From the American College of Physicians

Experts, professional societies, and consumer groups often recommend different strategies for cancer screening that vary in the intensity of their search for asymptomatic lesions and in value. This...
Mid-ocean acoustic current profiling from submerged buoys

Summary form only given, as follows. An intercomparison experiment with two buoy-mounted upward-looking Acoustic Doppler current profilers (ADCP's) was carried out during 7-11 January 1986 in the Florida Current at a water depth of 670 m. A 75 kHz profiler with 30° beam angle was moored at 610 m depth in one mooring and a second profiler, working at 150 kHz and a beam angle of 20° and located at 470 m depth was moored about 800 m upstream. Directly underneath both systems, Aanderaa current-meters (ACM's) were moored for comparison. Acoustic profiling was in time intervals of 10 minutes, with 400 pings per ensemble using 4.3 m bin width at the 150 kHz system, and 200 pings and 8.0 m bin width at the 75 kHz system. The 75 kHz system gave significant echo amplitudes over the full depth range of 600 m, the 150 kHz system to about 330 m above the transducer. Current speeds measured by both systems in the depth range 470-300 m differed by only 1.4 - 2.4cm/s; comparison with ACM currents was also within a few cm/s. Near the surface, Doppler current speeds were biased toward low values by side-lobe returns traveling straight up to the surface and back. This biassing was extended to greater depth in periods of strong mooring inclination by the method of bin number reassignment which is used to assure that Doppler currents are calculated from approximately the same depth level regardless of the inclination of individual beams. The overall result was that ADCP's mounted on top of subsurface moorings can be used for current profiling over vertical ranges of hundreds of meters, but that special precautions have to be taken to get good data from near the surface.
Maintenance of a Laboratory Unit of Voltage

Many of the problems involved in maintaining a laboratory reference group of standard cells with a reliability better than one part per million are outlined and solutions suggested. Methods are presented for reducing the number of measurements by approximately 40 percent from the ideal without seriously reducing the accuracy achieved, and procedures for assessing the quality of the group are indicated. Suggestions are given for preferred methods to be used for groups of 4, 8, or 12 cells, and as an example of these procedures the 20-month history of a new group of standard cells is illustrated.
Strain-Hardening Solutions to Axisymmetric Disks and Tubes

Solutions are obtained for annular disks and tubes made of a linearly strain-hardened material, loaded by a uniform tensile load on the outer boundary. The strain-hardening is assumed to follow a kinematic hardening flow law. In addition, a second solution for tubes which accounts for finite deformation is determined. Some numerical comparisons are made with existing isotropic hardening solutions.
STRETCH, TIME LENSES, AND INCOHERENT TIME IMAGING

The stretch, or time-lens, concept is developed further. Alternative formulations that lead to invariant systems are described, as well as methods for synthesizing the time equivalent of spatially and temporally incoherent systems.
Microstructure of high modulus solid state extruded polyethylene: 1. Electron microscopy studies of 12, 24 and 36 × EDR

Abstract The microstructure of a series of solid state extruded polyethylenes for two molecular weights ( M w = 59 000 and 200 000) were examined by electron microscopy. The sample extrusion draw ratio varied from 12–24–36 ×. The axial tensile modulus increases almost linearly with draw ratio from 10 GPa (12 ×) to 40 GPa (36 ×). The extrudates consist of ribbon-like aggregates of 120–250Adiameter microfibrils. Dark field electron microscopy indicates an increase of the average axial crystallite size with increasing extrusion draw ratio. The 12 and 24 × lower molecular weight samples have microstructures similar to conventionally drawn fibres, i.e. crystalline regions alternate with noncrystalline regions along the fibre axis. The low molecular weight 36 × sample and the high molecular weight 24 × sample contain broader crystalline size distributions and a small component of very long crystals (1000–8000A). Moreover, individual fibrils of these highest modulus extrudates do not display fibre symmetry but consist rather of sequences of diffracting crystallites (crystallite colonies) indicating, by their coherence, the presence of thin intercrystalline bridges or needle crystals.
Quantification of microtubule nucleation, growth and dynamics in wound-edge cells.

Mammalian cells develop a polarized morphology and migrate directionally into a wound in a monolayer culture. To understand how microtubules contribute to these processes, we used GFP-tubulin to measure dynamic instability and GFP-EB1, a protein that marks microtubule plus-ends, to measure microtubule growth events at the centrosome and cell periphery. Growth events at the centrosome, or nucleation, do not show directional bias, but are equivalent toward and away from the wound. Cells with two centrosomes nucleated approximately twice as many microtubules/minute as cells with one centrosome. The average number of growing microtubules per μm 2 at the cell periphery is similar for leading and trailing edges and for cells containing one or two centrosomes. In contrast to microtubule growth, measurement of the parameters of microtubule dynamic instability demonstrate that microtubules in the trailing edge are more dynamic than those in the leading edge. Inhibition of Rho with C3 transferase had no detectable effect on microtubule dynamics in the leading edge, but stimulated microtubule turnover in the trailing edge. Our data demonstrate that in wound-edge cells, microtubule nucleation is non-polarized, in contrast to microtubule dynamic instability, which is highly polarized, and that factors in addition to Rho contribute to microtubule stabilization.
A Single Center Transition of Care Model from Pediatric Heart to Adult Services

Purpose This first transition year has shown to have increased instances of rejection, graft dysfunction, and death. There is little data or guidelines to transition young adults to adult centered transplant programs. There are no current ISHLT guidelines to establish a transition program. We have two years of data gathered from 2010 to the present from our program. Methods and Materials Benchmarks that have been identified to measure the success of the transition are the following indicators:1.Number of Rejection events. 2. Stable allomap scores and IS levels. 3.Consistent clinical compliance, continued stable mental health -with minimal life style changes/impairment 4. Work/School. Family goals with engagement in departmental return to work program, participation in pregnancy counseling.5. ED visits/hospitalization/ discharges. Results Year to date 12 patients have transitioned. The mean time post transplant has been 12 years. Median age has been 24 years. We have 2 patient deaths; 1 from humoral rejection due to medical non-compliance and 1 patient died from suicide. 5 patients have successfully entered the work force or are attending college.10 others have had good compliance and stable IS/ Allomap levels. There have been no pregnancies reported in our transition program. All 12 patients have been hospitalized for causes including: infection, rejection, rhythm issues, and other end organ failure. Conclusions Initial outcomes shows complexity of establishing a transition program. It is imperative to build an effective transitional care model/program with evidenced based practice without loss of life or graft function. Lessons learned include establishing better education and pre- planning from a peds oriented program to an adult oriented program, establishing a care coordinator to help this special transition population, administrative and financial support, timing of transition criteria (coincide age related mile stones), confidence in the adult team, and establishing peds to adult oriented quality of life benchmarks.
An analog/hybrid computer simulation of phase-locked-loops in motor speed control

This paper describes the simulation of the precise control of speed in servo systems using the digital phase-locked-loop (PLL) method and analog/hybrid computer techniques.The PLL for motor speed control is essentially a hybrid feedback control system in which a reference square-wave signal is used to command servo velocity and position. The system consists of a phase comparator, a low-pass filter, the motor under control, and a voltage-controlled-oscillator (VCO) in the feedback path. The mathematical model of the motor and the low-pass filter are simulated on the analog computer. The input reference is a frequency-modulated (FM) digital signal. An integrated circuit is used as the phase comparator which compares the perturbed VCO feedback frequency and the input signal.The method introduced here is simple to learn and practical to implement in undergraduate control courses. It introduces the student to the basic concepts of PLL control, without overwhelming him with its complex problems.
Fractionation of nonhistone chromosomal proteins isolated from rabbit liver and submandibular salivary glands

Abstract Nonhistone chromosomal proteins were isolated from rabbit liver chromatin in 5 m urea, and in 5 m urea with stepwise increase in NaCl molarity. Five different fractions were obtained, including 5 m urea-extracted chromatin, 5 m urea-0.5 m NaCl, 5 m urea-0.5-1.0 m NaCl, 5 m urea-1.0–1.5 m NaCl, and 5 m urea-1.5–2.0 m NaCl. A total of 94 bands of different electrophoretic mobilities were found for nonhistone chromosomal proteins isolated from rabbit liver. In addition, studies on the melting profiles of the DNA pellets obtained from the variously treated chromatin indicated that DNA of ϱ = 1.688 g/cm 3 may have tightly bound nonhistones associated to it (i.e., nonhistones which are dissociated between 1.5 and 2.0 m NaCl in 5 m urea). This fraction contained specific nonhistones relative to the other fractions which were obtained at the lower NaCl molarity and which lacked histones (except for histone III).
Pregnancy Outcomes following Bipolar Umbilical Cord Cauterization for Selective Termination in Complicated Monochorionic Multiple Gestations

Objective: To review pregnancy and childhood outcomes following selective termination by ultrasound guided bipolar umbilical cord cauterization (UCC) in complicated monochorionic mu
Penetrating trauma in the pediatric patient

Abstract Penetrating trauma in the pediatric patient represents a small percentage of all traumatic injuries. However, the morbidity and mortalitya, as well as the overall costs for short- and long-term care, move this type of injury to the forefront of the emergency physician's attention. The injure circumstances significantly impacts the outcome, with firearm injuries producing a greater degree of injury to more body areas than any other penetrating mechanism. No body region is immune to penetrating injury, although some hear a higher risk for serious injury than others do. Care of penetrating injuries follows the same resuscitation algorithm as for all other types of trauma, although there must be increased awareness of circulatory problems and wound management. Finally, in contrast to blunt injuries, surgical management is more frequently required for the definitive care of the patient.
H-2 gene expression in required for T cell-mediated lysis of virus-infected target cells.

EFFECTOR T cells generated during the course of virus diseases of mice interact only with virus-infected target cells sharing H–2K or H–2D antigenic specificities with the mouse strain in which the lymphocytes are sensitised1–3. The current interpretation4 of this phenomenon is that the cell membrane component(s) recognised by the T-cell receptor(s) has characteristics of both self (H–2) and non-self (virus). Phenotypic expression of H–2 genes in the target cell would thus be essential for T cell-mediated immunity. Here we test this hypothesis using two teratocarcinoma cell lines (F–9 and PCC4 derived from strain 129 mice5,6) infected with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV). We show that the F–9 tumour cells apparently do not express H–2K or H–2D antigenic specificities (Fig. 1, Table 1), and are also resistant to attack by lymphocytes sensitised against LCMV. The PCC4 line, however, has remained multipotential and can give rise to various different cell types, at least some of which show evidence of H–2 gene function (Table 1) and are attacked by the appropriately sensitised lymphocytes.
OC7 Relationships between anthropometric measures and strength performance in young soccer players

Ability to sprint is a key parameter (Faude et al. , J Sports Sci , 2012, 30 :625–31) and is the most frequent action in goal situations. Previously, other authors have established linear relationship between countermovement jump, leg power and percentage body fat, and team success (Arnason et al . MSSE , 2014, 36(2), 278–85). The body composition, as seen through a large content of muscle and low content of fat tissue, could be a particularly strong predictor of rapid movement performance, as jumping performance or sprint (Copic et al ., JSCR, 2014). Thus, our principal aim is to explore potential relationships between anthropometric measures and athletic performance, focusing on strength related variables. Twelve young soccer player (age 22 ± 2 y, body mass 69.5 ± 7.1 kg, height 179 ± 8 cm; body fat 7.6 ± 2.2%) performed a CMJ, CMJ-BW loaded, 40 m sprint (analysing partial times at 15 and 30 m) and one Repetition Maximum (RM) in back squat test. Main interesting findings from this study were the strong associations between anthropometric measures and relevant strength variables related to physical condition performance in soccer. CMJ and CMJ-BW Loaded was strongly correlated with 1 RM, 40 m sprint performance and shuttle sprint at 15 and 30 m (r from 0.64 to 0.89; p et al ., JSCR , 2013, 28(1) , 173–7; Brocherie et al. (2014) J Sports Sci 17 : 1–12), the results of this study illustrates the importance of developing high levels of strength in order to enhance sprint and jump performance in youth soccer players. Besides, Nikolaidis (CEJM, 2012, 7(6), 783–9) evidenced that a threshold exists in BF, above which muscular power output is affected to a great extent. Therefore, BF was negatively associated with physical fitness parameters.
The human melanocyte stimulating hormone receptor has evolved to become "super-sensitive" to melanocortin peptides

Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) stimulates pigmentation in mammals by activating specific cell surface MSH receptors (MC1-Rs) on melanocytes. MC1-Rs on normal human melanocytes have been difficult to detect and characterise. The pharmacological characterisation of a cloned human MC1-R (hMC1-R) is reported here, and directly compared with that of a cloned mouse MC1-R (mMC1-R). The human and mouse MC1-Rs are equally sensitive (EC50 = 1-2 pM) to the super potent analogue of alpha-MSH, NDP-MSH. In contrast with the mMC1-R, the hMC1-R is also very sensitive to alpha-MSH (EC50 = 2 pM), ACTH (EC50 = 8 pM), and Lys gamma 3-MSH (EC50 < 10(-10) M). This suggests that in man, in contrast with rodents, both ACTH and Lys gamma 3-MSH may have physiological roles in pigmentation.
Limitation on sensitivity of measuring collagen degradation: studies with cultured liver cells.

Intracellular degradation of newly synthesized collagen is studied by incubating cells with (14C)proline and measuring the hydroxy(14C)proline in a low molecular weight fraction relative to total hydroxy-(14C)proline synthesized. This communication describes a fundamental limitation on the precision with which the measurement can be made; the limitation derives from an irreducible uncertainty in estimating the background radioactivity contributed by the isotope used for metabolic labeling. The problem is illustrated by experiments with cultured liver cells. In rat hepatocytes, the hydroxy-(14C)proline in the low molecular weight fraction was barely detectable above background; the degradation was 29%, however the uncertainty was ±28%. In contrast, significant amounts of hydroxy(14C)proline were detected in fractions from human and rat hepatoma cells; and while the levels of degradation were approximately the same as in rat hepatocytes, the measurements could be made with substantially greater precision.
On Optimal Smoothness of the Green Function for the Complement of a Cantor-Type Set

We give a new streamlined proof of a recent result by Totik concerning the local Holder 1/2 property of the Green function for the complement of a Cantor-type set taken with respect to the extended complex plane. To simplify the proof we find certain families of curves and estimate their moduli. In addition, we extend Totik's theorem to more general Cantor-type sets.
Effect of Insulin on Farnesyltransferase Activity in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

Abstract Activation of p21ras by GTP loading is a critical step in a cascade of intracellular insulin signaling. Farnesylation of p21ras protein is an obligatory event that facilitates Ras migration to the plasma membrane and subsequent activation. Farnesyltransferase (FTase) is a ubiquitous enzyme that catalyzes the lipid modification of p21ras by the addition of farnesyl to the C-terminal “CAAX” motif. In vitro and in vivo FTase activities were studied in 3T3-L1 adipocytes in response to insulin challenge. Insulin exerted a biphasic stimulatory effect on FTase activity measured in vitro with a 31% increase at 5 min and a 130% increase at 60 min. Insulin-stimulated farnesylation of p21ras pools in vivo correlated with FTase activity seen in vitro by displaying an increase in farnesylated p21ras from 40% of total cellular Ras in control cells to 63% by 5 min and 80% by 60 min (p < 0.05) in insulin-treated cells. Insulin challenge of 3T3-L1 adipocytes increased incorporation of tritiated mevalonic acid in p21ras in a dose-dependent manner and stimulated a 2-fold increase in phosphorylation of the α-subunit of FTase at 5 min and a 4-fold increase at 60 min.
Selective excitation of molecular iodine

It was found that the degree of polarization of the molecular resonance fluorescence of I2 excited by the 5145 A argon laser line decreases with increased laser power. A classical model is developed to explain the observed effect which is attributed to the orientation dependence of the absorption cross section of molecular iodine.
Family hostility and children's cognitive processes

This study examined cognitive processes of children exposed to two types of family hostility: parents' interpartner aggression and/or maternal child abuse potential. Forty-nine mother-child dyads from a community sample participated. Mothers completed the Domestic Conflict Inventory and the Child Abuse Potential Inventory, while children completed cognitive tasks before and after listening to audiotaped vignettes of marital conflict. Study findings revealed that, following presentation of conflict vignettes, children exposed to high versus low levels of family hostility demonstrated fewer intrusion errors on the verbal learning task and showed improved performance on the verbal attention task, yet also performed more poorly on a measure of short delay verbal recall. Discussion addresses the ways in which specific types of cognitive processes are differentially affected by exposure to family hostility.
Analysis of mutations in the K-ras and p53 genes of lung tumors and in the hprt gene of 6-thioguanine-resistant T-lymphocytes from rats treated with 1,6-dinitropyrene.

Abstract Direct pulmonary instillation of 1,6-dinitropyrene (DNP) into male Fischer 344 rats results in a dose-dependent induction of lung tumors and 6-thioguanine-resistant (TG r ) T-lymphocytes. The treatment also results in DNP binding to dG in the lung and in T-lymphocytes. In the present study, we have examined the types of mutations associated with these responses to DNP. Sequencing of DNA amplification products from 20 DNP-induced lung tumors identified 5 mutations in K- ras codon 12, 4 GGT→TGT transversions and one GGT→GAT transition. No mutations were found in K- ras codons 13 or 61. Single-strand conformation polymorphism analysis of p53 exons 5–8 revealed mobility shifts indicative of mutation in 9 of the 20 tumor samples. Eight of the mutations were substitutions at G:C base pairs, and one was a deletion of a single G:C base pair. DNA from 161 TG r lymphocyte colonies cultured from DNP-treated rats was examined for point mutations by amplification of hprt exons 2, 3, and 8, and screening the products for mutant:wild-type heteroduplex formation by denaturing gradient-gel electrophoresis. Only three mutations were found, a G→T transversion in exon 3, a G→A transition in exon 8, and a complex mutation consisting of a tandem G→T transversion and a one base deletion in exon 3. The mutations identified in the DNP-induced lung tumors and TG r T-lymphocytes are consistent with the formation of dG–DNA adducts by DNP. The extremely low recovery of point mutations from TG r lymphocytes suggests that DNP induces a substantial number of mutations by other mechanisms.
Approach to procedures in neonates

Physical constraints and metabolic differences in neonates require that special attention is given to performing procedures in this patient group. Neonates have a thinner dermis and a greater surface-to-weight ratio, allowing for easier invasion through the skin barrier. The enzymes for metabolism of agents and defense against organisms inside the body are not fully developed in infants. Very premature neonates also have less circulating albumin, making the effective concentration of circulating agent even greater. The infant is prone to unanticipated movement during procedures, such as rolling on the procedure table. The neonatal period is the most common time period for malformations to become manifest on the skin, and invasion of some of these lesions can produce morbidity. These and other factors affect the choice of the type of procedure used, the timing for intervention, and the approach to intervention in this age group. This article reviews the important considerations for approaching procedures and offers suggestions for safe and effective methods of reliably producing the intended outcome.
Role of gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists in poor responders.

Objective To evaluate the role of GnRH antagonists in poor-responder protocols. Design Literature review. Conclusion(s) The optimum stimulation protocol for poor responders is unknown. Although many IVF programs currently use GnRH antagonists for poor responders, there have been only four prospective, randomized trials comparing GnRH antagonists to alternate protocols. None of these studies had sufficient power to evaluate a difference in pregnancy rates (PRs), and in all four cases, IVF outcomes were comparable. Nevertheless, interest in the use of GnRH antagonists in poor responders has continued. GnRH antagonists may be associated with simpler stimulation protocols, lower gonadotropin requirements, reduced patient costs, and shorter downtimes between consecutive cycles. However, the greatest advantage of GnRH antagonists may lie in the ability to assess ovarian reserves immediately prior to deciding whether or not to initiate gonadotropin stimulation. The ability to respond to cycle-to-cycle variation in antral follicle counts may allow the optimization of oocyte yield and reduce cycle cancellation rates. It remains to be seen if this approach (initiating gonadotropins only in cycles where an adequate antral follicle count is present) also translates into higher clinical PRs for poor responders.
Narrowband Er:YAG nonplanar ring oscillator at 1645 nm

We report 1645 nm narrowband operation of a monolithic Er:YAG nonplanar ring oscillator resonantly pumped at 1532 nm. Unidirectional cw power up to 0.5 W was obtained with a measured linewidth of 21 kHz.
Metastasis of squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder to the heart: Case report and review of the literature

A 79-year-old woman with no previous history of genitourinary disease presented to an outside urologist with gross hematuria and irritative voiding symptoms. Cystoscopy revealed a papillary bladder mass thought initially to represent urothelial carcinoma of the bladder with squamous features. The patient presented to our hospital 6 months later with dyspnea and edema. Computed tomography of the chest revealed a cardiac mass, and endomyocardial biopsy revealed metastatic squamous cell carcinoma. A review of the patient's pathology report confirmed the very rare diagnosis of metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder to the heart.
What Is the Underlying Conception of Teaching of the edTPA

The edTPA, a nationally available performance assessment for teacher candidates, has recently been developed and implemented in teacher education programs across the United States. Advocates make a...
Perspective on “Statistical mechanics of isomerization dynamics in liquids and the transition state approximation”

This paper provides a perspective on the use of the reactive flux formalism for calculating rate constants in condensed phase systems through molecular dynamics simulations. This approach makes possible the computation of rate constants even for systems with very high energy barriers.
Design and performance analysis for a single-chip optoelectronic database filter

The commercialization of CD-ROM drives has clearly demonstrated the ability of optical storage devices to meet the growing demand for archival data storage. However, with the continued expansion of electronic information resources, storage capacity requirements are expected to approach the terabyte level for personal users and exceed the petabyte level for databases and data warehouse systems. Further, many data-intensive applications require real-time data access rates. Thus, designers for the next generation of archival storage systems have the challenging task of providing storage capacities several orders of magnitude larger than existing systems while maintaining current data access times. To meet this challenge, we have developed a single-chip database filter suitable for large-capacity database systems that use page-oriented optical storage devices. Based on a photonic VLSI device technology, our data filter monolithically integrates optical detectors, photoreceiver circuits, data manipulation logic, and filter control circuitry onto a single CMOS chip that can be readily fabricated using a standard VLSI fabrication facility. Thus, our device is compatible with existing electronic device manufacturing technology and shares all of the reliability, uniformity, and manufacturability benefits associated with current electronic hardware. In addition to describing the database filter concept, this paper presents design and circuit evaluation data suggesting that a 32x32-bit filter fabricated in a 1.5-?m CMOS process could have an optical page read rate of 87 Mpage/s and support 123-Mrecord/s transfer rate to a host computer. Finally, queuing theory is used to show that even with the limitation of finite queue capacity, a database filter chip could be controlled to work at near-optimal performance, where database search time is limited by the data transfer rate into the host computer. Since only valid search data are passed through to the host computer, the introduction of a database filter can dramatically reduce database search time.
Taking Uncertainty Seriously: The Blurred Boundaries of Democratic Transition and Consolidation

The temporal boundaries of democratization are often fuzzy and controversial. Yet students of regime change have paid little systematic attention to issues of temporal delimitation, despite their profound methodological as well as political implications. Scholars routinely define, but almost never study, processes of democratic transition and consolidation in terms of institutional uncertainty. This article, by contrast, proposes to take uncertainty seriously. Concerned with the operational implications of uncertainty, it critically revises the 'inner boundary' of democratization (the threshold between transition and consolidation) as well as its 'outer boundaries' (the onset of transition and the closure of consolidation). It concludes that the latter are structurally indeterminate unless incisive 'focal events' make actor expectations converge at either high or low levels of institutional uncertainty.
Effects of Co-Occurring Depression on Treatment for Anxiety Disorders: Analysis of Outcomes From a Large Primary Care Effectiveness Trial

OBJECTIVE Co-occurring depression is common in patients seeking treatment for anxiety; however, the literature on the effects of depression on anxiety treatment outcomes is inconclusive. The current study evaluated prescriptive and prognostic effects of depression on anxiety treatment outcomes in a large primary care sample. METHOD Data were analyzed from a randomized controlled effectiveness trial that compared coordinated anxiety learning and management (CALM) to usual care. The study enrolled 1,004 patients between June 2006 and April 2008. Patients were referred by their primary care provider and met DSM-IV criteria for generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, and/or social anxiety disorder. They were treated for approximately 3 to 12 months with CALM (computer-assisted cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication management, or their combination) or usual care. Outcomes were evaluated by blinded assessment at 6, 12, and 18 months. Effects of baseline major depressive disorder (MDD) on anxiety symptoms, anxiety-related disability, and response/remission rates were evaluated using statistical models accounting for baseline anxiety and patient demographics. RESULTS MDD did not moderate the effects of CALM (relative to usual care) on anxiety symptoms, anxiety-related disability, or response/remission rates. Greater improvements in anxiety symptoms and anxiety-related disability were observed in depressed patients, regardless of treatment assignment (P values < .005). However, cross-sectionally depressed patients displayed higher anxiety symptom and anxiety-related disability scores at baseline and all subsequent assessments (P values < .001). Depressed patients also displayed lower remission rates at each follow-up (P values < .001). CONCLUSIONS CALM had comparable advantages over usual care for patients with and without MDD. Depressed patients displayed more severe anxiety symptoms and anxiety-related disability at baseline, but their clinical improvement was substantial and larger in magnitude than that observed in the nondepressed patients. Results support the use of empirically supported interventions for anxiety disorders in patients with co-occurring depression. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00347269.
Price rules, wage indexing, and optimal monetary policy

Abstract There has been a recent increased interest in a monetary price rule. This paper analyzes the efficiency of such a monetary rule within the context of a rational expectations macro model. We compare the price rule with the standard money rule and interest rate rule. We find that as the supply shock variance approaches zero the price rule dominates both a money and interest rate rule. We then investigate the efficiency of these alternative money rules when we allow wage indexation to the price level.
Design and Performance of the Slac Drive System

This paper describes the design and performance of the RF drive system of the Stanford Two-Mile Linear Accelerator. The function of this system is to supply a drive signal of 240 watts to each of the 240-24 MW klystron amplifiers whose power accelerates the beam. The following sub-systems are discussed: A highly stable tunable master oscillator at 476 MHz, a 17.5 kW CW main booster amplifier, a two-mile temperature stabilized 3-1/8 inch diameter main drive line, 30 times-six varactor frequency multipliers, 30 pulse modulators and sub-booster klystrons, 30 temperature stabilized 1-5/8 inch diameter subdrive lines, isolator-phase shifter-attenuators used before each sub-booster and 24 MW klystron, the phase-stable interconnecting cables, and standby equipment.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF MARITIME LAW IN MEDIEVAL SPAIN: THE CASE OF CASTILE AND THE SIETE PAKTIDAS

(1996). The Development of Maritime Law in Medieval Spain: The Case of Castile and the Siete Paktidas. The Historian: Vol. 58, No. 3, pp. 575-587.
Forces and Hydrodynamic Interactions between Polystyrene Surfaces with Adsorbed PEO−PPO−PEO

We are presenting the first measurements of purely steric levitation obtained with total internal reflection microscopy (TIRM), using F108 Pluronic triblock adsorbed to a polystyrene particle and a polystyrene film. The steric repulsion measured in these studies appears as a virtual hard wall. We report measurements which simultaneously detect both the “steric” and “hydrodynamic” edges of adsorbed polymer layers. The steric edge occurs at a few nanometers larger separations than the hydrodynamic edge. These measurements are also the first indication of the effects of adsorbed polymer on the net van der Waals attraction in good solvent conditions. The adsorbed polymer strengthens the net attraction for the same separation between the PS substrates but weakens the attraction for the same separation between the outer edges. It is also shown that attraction at small separations is dominated by the properties of the polymer layer, and attraction at large separations is dominated by the properties of the substr...
Nerve Growth Factor-Regulated Emergence of Functional δ-Opioid Receptors

Sorting of intracellular G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) either to lysosomes for degradation or to plasma membrane for surface insertion and functional expression is a key process regulating signaling strength of GPCRs across the plasma membrane in adult mammalian cells. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms governing the dynamic process of receptor sorting to the plasma membrane for functional expression under normal and pathological conditions. In this study, we demonstrate that δ-opioid receptor (DOPr), a GPCR constitutively targeted to intracellular compartments, is driven to the surface membrane of central synaptic terminals and becomes functional by the neurotrophin nerve growth factor (NGF) in native brainstem neurons. The NGF-triggered DOPr translocation is predominantly mediated by the signaling pathway involving the tyrosine receptor kinase A, Ca2+-mobilizing phospholipase C, and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II. Importantly, it requires interactions with the cytoplasmic sorting protein NHERF-1 (Na+/H+ exchange regulatory factor-1) and N-ethyl-maleimide-sensitive factor-regulated exocytosis. In addition, this NGF-mediated mechanism is likely responsible for the emergence of functional DOPr induced by chronic opioids. Thus, NGF may function as a key molecular switch that redirects the sorting of intracellularly targeted DOPr to plasma membrane, resulting in new functional DOPr on central synapses under chronic opioid conditions.
LII and LIII emission spectra of copper compounds

The copper LII, III X-ray emission spectra (λ ≈ 13.5 A) from pure metal, oxides, sulfides, and other compounds have been investigated using a bent-crystal vacuum spectrometer in an electron beam microprobe. Emission spectra were studied over a wide range of accelerating voltages, showing that satellite emission and self-absorption effects can significantly distort band shapes. It was found that the LIII peak width at half maximum intensity and the LH/LIII intensity ratio may be correlated with the oxidation state of the copper as well as to the band structure of the solid. Die Kupfer-LH, III-Rontgenemissionsspektren (λ ≈ 13,5 A) des reinen Metalls, der Oxide, Sulfide and anderer Verbindungen wurden mittels eines Vakuumspektrometers mit gebogenem Kristall mit einer Elektronenstrahlmikrosonde untersucht. Die Emissionsspektren wurden uber einen weiten Bereich der Beschleunigungsspannung gemessen. Die Untersuchungen zeigten, das Satellitemission und Selbstabsorptionseffekte die Gestalt der Banden wesentlich verandern Konnen. Die Halbwertsbreite, bezogen auf die Position des Intensitatsmaximums, und das LII–LIII-Intensitatsverhaltnis konnen mit dem Oxydationszustand des Kupfers sowie der Bandstruktur des Festkorpers in Beziehung gesetzt werden.
Confinement of Charged Particles by Multiple-Mirror Systems

Monte Carlo techniques are used to evaluate particle confinement in mirror systems, including ones in which several mirrors are used in series. Predictions are compared with an experiment, and possible advantages of multiple-mirror systems with respect to plasma stability are described.
Understanding The Nb-Ti-A1 System: First Principles Calculations

The discovery of ductile cubic phases in the Nb-Ti-Al system has led to increased study of these high-temperature intermetallics. I have performed first-principles calculations for ordered crystal structures in this system, paying particular attention to the Nb7Ti7Al2 structure. Somewhat surprisingly, the electronic density of states, lattice constant, and bulk modulus are nearly independent of the ordering of these materials, even though the changes in the total energy are significant.
Lessons from the experiences of leading-edge object technology projects in Hewlett-Packard

A study of leading-edge HP object technology projects was conducted to understand the current state of object-oriented practice, and projects' object-oriented analysis and design method needs. In this paper, we distill general best practices and pitfalls from the lessons learned in these projects. We also consider how the OOA/D methods support what the businesses have set out to accomplish, where they are deficient, and how they are being modified to better support project needs. We draw upon these lessons to point out areas where OOA/D methods and CASE tools require improvement.
Comparison of the effects of four anaesthetics on blood biochemical profiles and oxidative stress biomarkers in rainbow trout

Abstract The feasibility of using clove oil, 2-phenoxyethanol, or Propiscin as an alternative to tricaine methane sulphonate (MS 222) for anaesthetizing fish was studied, particularly with respect to reducing stress. The blood biochemical and antioxidant profiles of rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss anaesthetized with MS 222 (100 mg l − 1 ), clove oil (30 mg l − 1 ), 2-phenoxyethanol (0.40 ml l − 1 ), or Propiscin (1.0 ml l − 1 ), and a non-anaesthetized control group, were compared. Biochemical and antioxidant profiles were determined from blood samples collected prior to treatment in controls. For each anaesthetic tested, fish were divided into two groups, one sampled immediately after 10 min anaesthesia and a second, sampled 24 h after 10 min anaesthesia. Our results suggest that internal organs and tissues of rainbow trout were slightly altered by all tested anaesthetics and resulted in increased reactive oxygen species formation, leading to oxidative damage to lipids and proteins and inhibition of antioxidant capacities. In short, a low level of oxidative stress could induce the adaptive responses of antioxidant enzymes. On the basis of this experiment, it appears that Propiscin was associated with the lowest effects in rainbow trout and therefore would be recommended as an alternative to MS 222.
A golgi study of dendritic morphology in the occipital cortex of socially reared aged rats

Abstract The possible role of the environment in the morphology of the aged brain has been previously discussed in a number of studies. This study used rats which were aged in social rather than in isolated environments. The density of basal dendrites from superficial pyramidal cells from the occipital cortex was analyzed utilizing the concentric circle method and the specific ordering of the dendrites quantified with the centripetal ordering system. There were dramatic increases in the density of dendrites in three defined ranges from the soma (50 to 100, 100 to 150, and 150 to 200 μm) from 414 to 630 days of age. The only range that did not increase in density was the soma to 50-μm range. The increase in density was due to increases in both terminal and intermediate segments. These findings suggest that the living conditions of the animal during aging play a role in the appearance of the cortical structure. This study also introduces the separate quantification of branchless segments of dendrites, which were found on 75% of the neurons studied at both 414 and 444 days of age. On the other hand, in both the 90- and the 630-day-old groups, only 33% of the neurons had branchless segments. We suggest that branchless segments may be dying segments in a state of retraction.
Colchicine, cytochalasin B, cyclic AMP, and pigment granule translocation in melanophores of UCA pugilator and Hemigrapsusoregonensis (Crustacea: Deapoda)

Abstract 1. Colchicine substantially inhibits pigment aggregation but has only a slight inhibitory effect on pigment dispersion in melanophores of Hemigrapsus oregonensis . 2. Cytochalasin B inhibits both pigment dispersion and aggregation in these cells, the inhibition of the former being readily reversible by washing away the drug. 3. Cyclic AMP has a slight pigment-dispersing effect on melanophores of Uca pugilator ; this dispersion is inhibited by cytochalasin B.
An agent-based framework for building decision support systems

Abstract This paper proposes a framework for building decision support systems using software agent technology to support organizations characterized by physically distributed, enterprise-wide, heterogeneous information systems. Intelligent agents have offered tremendous potential in supporting well-defined tasks such as information filtering, data mining and data conversion. However, the use of intelligent agents to support decisions has not been explored and merits serious consideration. This paper proposes a taxonomy of agent characteristics that can be used to help identify agents to support different types of decision tasks. We advocate a goal-directed, behavior-based architecture for building cooperative decision support using agents. We look at the development of agent-based DSS as being a process of putting together a coordinated workflow of collaborating agents that is able to support a problem-solving process. The methodology is illustrated by a selection of intelligent agents to support Crisis Action Procedures in a large organization.
Mass and Energy Transport in Conjugated Polymer Langmuir−Blodgett Films: Conductivity, Fluorescence, and UV−Vis Studies

We have investigated a model thin film sensory system in which analytes diffuse into multilayers of a fluorescent conjugated polymer. The film thickness is precisely controlled by depositing discrete monolayers by the Langmuir−Blodgett technique. The effects of analyte mass transport and energy migration on the photophysical properties of the films were investigated by conducting UV−vis, fluorescence, and electrical conductivity measurements. Thin films show different properties when compared to relatively thick films due to prevailing surface phenomena. The diffusion constant of the analyte through the films is estimated to be ∼7 × 10-14 cm2/s from an analysis of a phenomenological model. A bilayer LB film exposed to the analyte implies higher sensitivity in fluorescence quenching compared to a solution system due to a fast interpolymer energy migration in the condensed phase. However, as the number of layer increases, the efficiency of fluorescence quenching decreases. The difference between a sensory s...