cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Coralline hydroxyapatite bone graft substitutes in a canine diaphyseal defect model: radiographic features of failed and successful union.

Radiographic and densitometric evaluation of a new type of bone graft substitute derived from reef-building sea coral via a hydrothermal chemical exchange process was undertaken in a canine diaphyseal defect model. Comparably sized blocks of this material and autogenous iliac cortical-cancellous graft were implanted into the respective radial diaphyses of seven dogs. Qualitative and quantitative radiographic assessment was performed during the immediate postoperative period and at 3 months following surgery. Significant complications were observed radiographically in over half of the coralline implanted limbs, including failed union, graft fracture, and loosening of internal fixation hardware. No significant difference was noted in degree of native osseous ingrowth between the implants and the autografts, and the latter exhibited a higher success rate. Radiographic film densitometry was found not to be reliably predictive of coralline implant behavior in the individual case. It is concluded that coralline hydroxyapatite bone graft substitutes appear to offer no particular advantage over autogenous grafts in the management of diaphyseal defects, although further investigation is warranted since other factors may be responsible for the unfavorable findings in this study.
27.12 MHz large voltage gain resonant converter with low voltage stress

This paper presents the design and implementation of a high frequency switching power converter with a large voltage gain and air core inductors. Specifically, we demonstrate a 40 W, 30 V to 300 V dc-dc converter switching at 27.12 MHz. Operating at this frequency reduces bulk energy storage over conventional low frequency designs and allows for fast transient response. We implement a resonant converter based on the Φ2 inverter of [1]. In this paper, we evaluate and compare two rectifier topologies with lower voltage stress than the class E rectifiers described in [2], to get large voltage ratios. Unique to this design is the ability to provide short bursts of high voltage while promising excellent performance and high power density.
Practicing public diplomacy: a Cold War odyssey

Yale Richmond, New York, Berghahn Books, 2008, xiii+175 pp By now it comes as no surprise to any armchair historian that the American telling of the end of the Cold War is generally a self-congratu...
Characterization of Human Ovarian Carcinomas in a SCID Mouse Model

Abstract This study characterizes a murine model which is promising for the study of the growth and natural history of ovarian cancer and for testing of new therapies for its treatment. Intact portions of 20 different human ovarian cancer surgical specimens were implanted in over 60 severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice using techniques previously developed in our laboratory. Growth of xenografts was evaluated by gross examination and histopathologic analysis. Confirmation of the human origin of the tumor outgrowth was obtained using in situ hybridization analysis. By histological evaluation, all of the patients' tumors showed evidence of invasive growth in at least 1 of the mice implanted with portions of each surgical specimen and these tumors remained morphologically similar to the parent tumors for a long period of time. Furthermore, 65% (13/20) of the xenografts grew rapidly enough (i.e., reached a diameter of 1–2 cm within 2–6 months) to allow passage to subsequent SCID mice. Among the passaged xenografts, 3 eventually developed metastases in a distribution pattern similar to that of naturally occurring ovarian cancer and 2 developed ascites without evidence of further metastatic spread. Upon evaluation of sera from tumor-bearing mice, human antibodies presumably derived from immunoglobulin-secreting cells present in the original tumor specimen were identified. In support of this, human B cells and plasma cells could be seen within the tumor xenograft for more than 6 months following implantation. In summary, transplantation of surgical specimens from ovarian cancer patients into SCID mice results in an attractive model for the study of the natural history of ovarian cancer and may also be useful for analysis or new experimental therapeutic approaches for the treatment of this disease.
The unfolded protein response is required to maintain the integrity of the endoplasmic reticulum, prevent oxidative stress and preserve differentiation in β‐cells

Diabetes is an epidemic of worldwide proportions caused by β-cell failure. Nutrient fluctuations and insulin resistance drive β-cells to synthesize insulin beyond their capacity for protein folding and secretion and thereby activate the unfolded protein response (UPR), an adaptive signalling pathway to promote cell survival upon accumulation of unfolded protein in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Protein kinase-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) signals one component of the UPR through phosphorylation of eukaryotic initiation factor 2 on the α-subunit (eIF2α) to attenuate protein synthesis, thereby reducing the biosynthetic burden. β-Cells uniquely require PERK-mediated phosphorylation of eIF2α to preserve cell function. Unabated protein synthesis in β-cells is sufficient to initiate a cascade of events, including oxidative stress, that are characteristic of β-cell failure observed in type 2 diabetes. In contrast to acute adaptive UPR activation, chronic activation increases expression of the proapoptotic transcription factor CAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP). Chop deletion in insulin-resistant mice profoundly increases β-cell mass and prevents β-cell failure to forestall the progression of diabetes. The findings suggest an unprecedented link by which protein synthesis and/or misfolding in the ER causes oxidative stress and should encourage the development of novel strategies to treat diabetes.
X-ray Diffraction Analysis of γ2 (Sn-Hg) Phase in High Copper Amalgams of Varying Mercury Content

Microstructures of high copper commercial amalgams containing varying amounts of mercury, ranging from 20% above to 25% below recommended values, were primarily investigated by x-ray diffraction. Mechanisms relating to the absence or presence of γ2 (Sn-Hg) phase in these amalgams were discussed in relation to the presence of copper and tin elements in their original alloys. The optimum mercury concentration in some amalgams was determined in order to keep them free of the γ2 (Sn-Hg) phase.
Kinetics of reaction of chlorine atoms with some biogenic organics

The reaction kinetics of atomic chlorine with a series of biogenic hydrocarbons, including the two enantiomers of α-pinene, were studied at 298 K and 1 atm pressure using a relative rate technique. The simultaneous losses of the biogenic of interest and a reference compound, either n-nonane or n-butane, were followed using gas chromatography with flame ionization detection as a function of the extent of photolysis of a chlorine atom precursor. Thionyl chloride, trichloroacetyl chloride or in a few trials, acetyl chloride, were photolyzed at 254 nm to generate chlorine atoms, since molecular chlorine reacted in the dark with these organics. The relative rate constants for ethane and isoprene determined relative to n-butane using SOCl2 and CCl3COCl were compared to those determined using Cl2 to check for possible artifacts. The average relative rate constants for ethane and isoprene (both relative to n-butane) using these new sources are (0.281 ± 0.021) and (2.49 ± 0.39) (±2 σ) respectively, within experimental error of those measured using Cl2 as the chlorine atom source. The relative rate constants averaged over all sources including Cl2 are (0.277 ± 0.025) for ethane and (2.42 ± 0.45) for isoprene. The ratios of rate constants for the chlorine atom reactions with the biogenics with formula C10H16 relative to n-nonane were as follows: (R)-α-pinene (0.991 ± 0.264); (S)-α-pinene (0.946 ± 0.240); β-pinene (1.09 ± 0.30); (R)-limonene (1.33 ± 0.15); myrcene (1.36 ± 0.31); 3-carene (1.16 ± 0.23). That for p-cymene, C10H14, is (0.433 ± 0.072). Taking k(Cl + n-nonane) = (4.82 ± 0.14) × 10−10 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, the absolute rate constants (in units of 10−10 cm3 molecule−1 s−1) are: (R)-α-pinene (4.8 ± 1.3); (S)-α-pinene (4.6 ± 1.2); β-pinene (5.3 ± 1.5); limonene (6.4 ± 0.8); myrcene (6.6 ± 1.5); 3-carene (5.6 ± 1.3); p-cymene (2.1 ± 0.4). (All errors are ± 2 σ). Although abstraction was not measured directly in this study, it is likely a significant contributor to the overall reactions of the C10H16 biogenics. The rate constant for the reaction of the aromatic compound p-cymene is within experimental error of that predicted from the sum of reaction with toluene plus the isopropyl substituent. A limited number of experiments for methyl vinyl ketone in N2 using CCl3COCl as the chlorine atom source and nonane as the reference compound gave a relative rate constant of (0.422 ± 0.034), corresponding to an absolute rate constant of (2.0 ± 0.2) × 10−10 cm3 molecule−1 s−1. Based on these rate constants, the lifetimes of these biogenics at dawn with respect to reaction with chlorine atoms are expected to be comparable to reaction with OH. Thus, loss of these biogenics by reaction with atomic chlorine must be taken into account in coastal regions in addition to their reactions with OH, O3 and at night, NO3. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 31: 491–499, 1999
Collapse of nearly spherical domain walls.

The collapse of nearly spherical domain walls is studied in the thin-wall approximation. Perturbations away from spherical symmetry are damped during the initial stages of collapse. However, these perturbations grow during the final stages of collapse. The question of whether the shape of the wall during its final stages of collapse is spherical, cigarlike, or pancakelike depends on its initial shape and on the ratio of the thickness of the wall to its initial size.
Cost evaluation of storage schemes

In this paper we present a methodology for the cost evaluation of file system performance. The cost structure we consider takes into account the various operations that are required during the processing of data in the system. The cost evaluation approach is then applied to several systems. A new storage scheme—a partially ordered file—is proposed, and experimental data which demonstrate its performance are presented. Finally, the cost evaluation approach is applied to this proposed storagse scheme.
Nd and Sr isotopic studies on cenozoic mafic lavas from West Antarctica: Another source for continental alkali basalts

The Nd and Sr isotopic ratios on a suite of continental alkali basalts from Marie Byrd Land, West Antarctica, define a change in the source over the range of K/Ar dates between 1 and 28 m.y. ago. The 87Sr/86Sr isotopic ratios (0.7026 to 0.7031) are unusually low for continental alkali basalts, although the corresponding 143Nd/144Nd ratios (0.51283 to 0.51299) are similar to previously reported values. On a 87Sr/86Sr vs. 143Nd/144Nd diagram, they define a trend on the low 87Sr/86Sr side of the “mantle array”, which has a slope steeper than the mantle array.
Sustained impact of MBSR on stress, well-being, and daily spiritual experiences for 1 Year in academic health care employees

Abstract Objectives: The objectives of the study were (1) to evaluate self-reported stress levels and daily spiritual experiences in academic health care employees before, immediately after, and 1 year after enrolling in a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) course; and (2) to evaluate the correlation between a potential measure of pulse rate variability and self-reported stress levels. Subjects: Fifty-nine (59) participants in the MBSR course offered to employees at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston (UTMB) comprised the intervention group, and 94 health care providers in the neonatal nurseries comprised the control group. Intervention: MBSR is an 8-week course that introduces mindfulness meditation practices. No intervention was offered to the control group. All participants were employees (or relatives of employees) at UTMB. Design: All MBSR participants completed Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale, the SCL-90, the SF-36 Measure of Health and Well-Being, the Daily Spiritual Experienc...
Falling-out: a diagnostic and treatment problem viewed from a transcultural perspective.

Abstract The author describes a seizure-like disorder called falling-out by black Americans, blackingout by Bahamians and indisposition by Haitians in Miami. Falling-out is used as a general label for all three variants of what appear to be equivalent syndromes. The state is one in which the individual collapses without warning, occasionally with some degree of salivation but without convulsions, tonguebiting, bowel or bladder incontinence. The person afflicted usually hears and understands what is happening but is powerless to move. Even though his eyes may be open, the individual tends not to see. The condition does not meet the criteria for epilepsy or hysteria: although persons who experience it are sometimes misdiagnosed as epileptics or hysterics. Prevalence indicators are reviewed. The conclusion is drawn that the condition is a significant health problem for black Americans and Bahamians and probably for Haitians in Miami. Preliminary observations on contexts of occurrence are provided. Difficulties of diagnosis are described from both emic (cultural/ “within”) and etic (orthodox/“without”) positions. The challenge to the orthodox health care system is considered. In its chronic form falling-out is viewed as being psychogenic in origin and a candidate for classification as a “culture-bound” syndrome. The predominant process involved appears to be dissociation in the form of a constricted state of consciousness. The psychophysiological state should be viewed as a means of ego defense and an adaptive response. Its effectiveness should be judged by the degree of psychological and social reintegration achieved following the episodes themselves. Reliance upon dissociation as a means of coping with crisis must be understood within the framework of a view of the world as threatening, unpredictable and potentially harmful to an “acted-upon” self. Such episodes must be judged for their ability to relieve anxiety and also for the degree to which they are successful in bringing about a state of adaptedness at a more effective, equal or reduced level of functioning. The orthodox health institution carries responsibility for reducing morbidity from falling-out and for devising therapeutic approaches which take into consideration both emic and etic etiological and therapeutic assumptions. We do not yet know how to do this, but several therapeutic approaches are mentioned which might be considered. They require both transdisciplinary (social science/medicine) and transcultural (emic/etic) perspectives rather than unicultural ones. Research considerations are briefly discussed.
Developmental expression of corticotropin-releasing factor in the postnatal murine cerebellum.

Abstract Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is present in climbing and mossy fibers and both have a distinct pattern of distribution in the adult cerebellar cortex. The intent of this developmental study is to determine when the lobular pattern of CRF distribution emerges, and to analyze the morphogenesis of CRF immunoreactive climbing and mossy fibers in individual cerebellar lobules. Between postnatal day (P)0 and P3, CRF-immunoreactive (IR) punctate elements are present throughout the cerebellum. By P3, there is a decrease in the density of staining in the white matter and punctate elements become concentrated within the developing cortex. Between P3 and P7 CRF-IR, varicosities circumscribe Purkinje cell bodies, and are present in the internal and external granule cell layers. Between P10 and P12, there is a major reduction in the density of CRF-IR puncta, especially in the internal and external granule cell layers. Varicosities remain around Purkinje cell bodies and some extend into the molecular layer. During this interval, CRF-IR profiles are first evident in axonal configurations characteristic of developing climbing fibers, although there are lobular differences in the degree of maturation of this afferent system. Axonal enlargements characteristic of immature mossy fibers can first be seen at P10 in lobules IX and X; they cannot be differentiated until P12–14 in more rostral or lateral lobules. CRF-IR fibers in lobules IX and X, the vestibulocerebellum, develop into mature climbing and mossy fibers before any other area of the cerebellum. In other lobules of the cerebellum the gradient of maturation for these axonal phenotypes is from medial to lateral and posterior to anterior. Between P10 and P12, CRF-IR climbing fibers are present in all lobules of the cerebellum. After P12, few climbing fibers are observed in the anterior lobe of the cerebellum at midvermal levels; those present are only faintly immunolabeled. Based on its early expression and uniform distribution between P0 and P10, CRF could have a role in cerebellar development. After this age, as climbing and mossy fiber terminal phenotypes mature, and the differential adult patterns of distribution emerge, CRF likely begins to function as a neuromodulator as has been shown in the adult cerebellum.
Developmental changes in regulation of the Na+, K+-ATPase α3 isoform by thyroid hormone in ferret heart

Abstract Ferret heart expresses the α1- as well as the α3-isoform of the Na+, K+-ATPase. We have shown previously that the α3 isoform is differentially upregulated during postnatal cardiac development and that in adult ferrets expression of α3 is not responsive to regulation by thyroid hormone (TH). Since developmental-stage dependent effects of TH have been reported previously, the present study examined whether effects of TH on expression of the Na+, K+-ATPase isoforms in ferret heart is modulated during development and possible mechanisms were examined. Ferrets of different age groups were treated with TH and the relative abundance of Na+, K+-ATPase isoforms in ferret myocardium was determined by immunoblotting. Thyroid hormone (T3; 50 μg/100 g body weight on 3 alternating days, s.c.) increased protein levels of the α3 isoform, but not that of α1 or β1, in myocardium of 5-day-old and 3-week-old ferrets. By contrast, in myocardium of 6- and 8-week-old ferrets T3 failed to increase protein levels of α1 and α3. To determine whether elevated plasma levels of TH during development plays a role in the transition, mature ferrets were first made hypothyroid before TH treatment. In these hypothyroid ferrets expression of the α3 isoform remained unresponsive to TH (T4, 0.5 mg/kg for 7 days, s.c.). The transition from TH-responsive to TH-unresponsive appears to be isoform-specific because in skeletal muscle of 8-week-old ferrets and in hypothyroid ferrets the α2 isoform is upregulated by TH. Finally, there appears to be functional thyroid hormone receptors throughout development because in each age group TH effectively induced expression of α-MHC in the myocardium. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that expression of α3 isoform in the myocardium of newborn ferret is responsive to TH; however, the responsiveness terminates between 3- and 6-weeks of age. Neither elevated endogenous TH level nor a lack of functional thyroid hormone receptor appears to be responsible for the transition from TH-responsive to TH-unresponsive.
Retinal MMP-12, MMP-13, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 expression in murine experimental retinal detachment.

Purpose. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors play a role in the pathobiology of retinal detachment (RD) and proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). Proliferative vitreoretinopathy is facilitated by chronic retinal detachment and involves excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -13 are important modulators of the ECM which have not been evaluated in RD. The purpose of this study was to investigate the retinal expression of select MMPs, including MMP-12, MMP-13, and associated inhibitors in a murine model of retinal detachment.
Flat glassy phases and wrinkling of polymerized membranes with long-range disorder.

We study polymerized membranes with long-range quenched internal disorder in the preferred metric and/or the extrinsic curvature characterized by disorder range exponents z μ , z k , respectively. We find several new flat glassy phases stable at T>0 in different regions of the z μ ,z k plane. We calculate the z-dependent roughness exponents and amplitudes that characterize these new phases. When z μ ,z k exceed critical values z μ , z k (characteristic of each phase), these glassy flat phases undergo a transition towards a crumpled phase, similar to the crumpled glass previously predicted
Superexcitation on synchronous condensers for Conowingo system

This paper outlines superexcitation as it will be applied to the synchronous condensers purchased for Plymouth Meeting, the receiver substation of the 220-kv. Conowingo transmission lines. In it are discussed the design limits of the excitation equipment as chosen and the emergency condenser output expected from, it, are evaluated.
The Hofstad Group: The New Face of Terrorist Networks in Europe

Between 2003 and 2006, members of the so-called Hofstad group planned various terrorist attacks inside the Netherlands, including the assassination of controversial filmmaker Theo van Gogh. Amateurish in its modus operandi and composed mostly of second-generation Muslim immigrants, Hofstad perfectly exemplifies the new terrorist networks that are growing in most European countries. Its perception of Europe as a battlefield of jihad, no less critical than Iraq or Afghanistan, signifies the break from the networks that operated in the continent in the 1990s. Its amorphous structure and lack of ties with international networks make Hofstad the quintessential example of the homegrown terrorism that is worrying European intelligence agencies.
Primary detection of hardwood log defects using laser surface scanning

The use of laser technology to scan hardwood log surfaces for defects holds great promise for improving processing efficiency and the value and volume of lumber produced. External and internal defect detection to optimize hardwood log and lumber processing is one of the top four technological needs in the nation’s hardwood industry. The location, type, and severity of defects on hardwood logs are the key indicators of log quality and value. These visual cues provide information about internal log characteristics and products for which the log is suitable. We scanned 162 logs with a high-resolution industrial four-head laser surface scanner. The resulting data sets contain hundreds of thousands of three-dimensional coordinate points. The size of the data and noise presented special problems during processing. Robust regression models were used to fit geometric shapes to the data. The estimated orthogonal distances between the fitted model and the log surface are converted to a two-dimensional image to facilitate defect detection. Using robust regression methods and standard image processing tools we have demonstrated that severe surface defects on hardwood logs can be detected using height and contour analyses of three-dimensional laser scan data.
Über das Atomgewicht von Blei radioaktiven Ursprungs

Es werden parallele Experimente zur Bestimmung der Aquivalentgewichte verschiedener Proben von Bleichlorid verschiedenen Ursprungs beschrieben. Dabei ergab sich, das samtliche aus radioaktiven Mineralien stammenden Bleisorten ein niedrigeres Atomgewicht aufweisen, als das unter identischen Bedingungen bestimmte Atomgewicht des gewohnlichen Bleis, wobei in einem der beobachteten Falle die Diskrepanz bis zu 0.75 Einheiten Anstieg. Es wurde keine einfache lineare Beziehung zwischen der Depression des Atomgewichtes und der Radioaktivitat der betreffenden Proben gefunden, welche mittelst eines quantitativen Elektroskopes bestimmt wurde.
NEUROMUSCULAR FACILITATION DURING TRAIN-OF-FOUR AND TETANIC STIMULATION IN HEALTHY VOLUNTEERS: OBSERVATIONS WITH HALF-REFRACTORY PAIRED RESPONSES

The compound electromyographic response of the thenar musculature was elicited by supramaximal stimulation of the ulnar nerve in 12 awake healthy volunteers. The half-refractory period of the neuro muscular transmission was determined. Twin stimuli separated by the half-refractory interval were repeated as a unit at 2 Hz and at 50 Hz. Thus two trains of responses, one beginning with a maximal response, the other with a half-maximal response, were obtained with each frequency of stimulation. Marked facilitation of the electromyographic response began with the train of stimulation, especially with tetanic stimulation. A secondary fade occurred occasionally. These changes were more remarkable in the train of half-refractory responses. We conclude that nerve stimulation facilitates neuro muscular transmission and deduce that the characteristic fade observed with a curariform block, rather than being an uncovered physiological phenomenon, is caused by tubocurarine and related drugs.
Tracking progress towards universal childhood immunisation and the impact of global initiatives: a systematic analysis of three-dose diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis immunisation coverage

Summary Background Substantial resources have been invested in increasing childhood immunisation coverage through global initiatives such as the Universal Childhood Immunisation (UCI) campaign and the Global Alliance on Vaccines and Immunisations (GAVI). There are longstanding concerns that target-oriented and performance-oriented initiatives such as UCI and GAVI's immunisation services support (ISS) might encourage over-reporting. We estimated the coverage of three doses of diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccine (DTP3) based on surveys using all available data. Methods We estimated DTP3 coverage by analysing unit record data from surveys and supplemented this with reported coverage from other surveys and administrative data. We used bidirectional distance-dependent regression to estimate trends in survey-based coverage in 193 countries during 1986–2006. We used standard time-series cross-sectional analysis to investigate any association in the difference between countries' official reports and survey-based coverage as the dependent variable and the presence of GAVI ISS as the independent variable, controlling for country and time effects. Findings Crude coverage of DTP3 based on surveys increased from 59% (95% uncertainty interval 51–65) in 1986 to 65% (60–68) in 1990, 70% (65–74) in 2000, and 74% (70–77) in 2006. There were substantial differences between officially reported and survey-based coverage during UCI. GAVI ISS significantly increased the difference between officially reported coverage and survey coverage. Up to 2006, in 51 countries receiving GAVI ISS payments, 7·4 million (5·7 million to 9·2 million) additional children were immunised with DTP3 based on surveys compared with officially reported estimates of 13·9 million. On the basis of the number of additional children immunised from surveys at a rate of US$20 each, GAVI ISS payments are estimated at $150 million (115 million to 184 million) compared with actual disbursements of $290 million. Interpretation Survey-based DTP3 immunisation coverage has improved more gradually and not to the level suggested by countries' official reports or WHO and UNICEF estimates. There is an urgent need for independent and contestable monitoring of health indicators in an era of global initiatives that are target-oriented and disburse funds based on performance. Funding Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Hunger and the academy: Training nutritionists for the 1990s

The changing picture of nutritional problems in the world, as well as fundamental shifts in our perception of their causes, continually pose new questions regarding ... [the] emphasis of nutrition training. The changes are felt particularly strongly at universities ... [that] are expected to bring out people who can appreciate the frontiers of current thinking . ... [There is] apparent agreement among most nutritionists that nutrition is a multi-faceted problem which can only be solved through multidisciplinary approaches. For while such statements are popular for rounding off scientific papers with the slightest connection with social reality, they are considerably diluted when it comes to transforming them into training for future specialists. -Wenche Barth Eide (1)
A reconfigurable multiprocessor IC for rapid prototyping of algorithmic-specific high-speed DSP data paths

A field-programmable multiprocessor integrated circuit, PADDI (programmable arithmetic devices for high-speed digital signal processing), has been designed for the rapid prototyping of high-speed data paths typical to real-time digital signal processing applications. The processor architecture addresses the key requirements of these data paths: (a) fast, concurrently operating, multiple arithmetic units, (b) conflict-free data routing, (c) moderate hardware multiplexing (of the arithmetic units), (d) minimal branch penalty between loop iterations, (e) wide instruction bandwidth, and (f) wide I/O bandwidth. The initial version contains eight processors connected via a dynamically controlled crossbar switch, and has a die size of 8.9*9.5 mm in a 1.2- mu m CMOS technology. With a maximum clock rate of 25 MHz, it can support a computation rate of 200 MIPS and can sustain a data I/O bandwidth of 400 Mbytes/s with a typical power consumption of 0.45 W. An assembler and simulator have been developed to facilitate programming and testing of the chip. >
Round goby predation on Dreissena in coastal areas of eastern Lake Michigan

Predator–prey interactions between round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) and Dreissena are an important component of the food web in their invaded range in North America and Europe. We conducted two experiments to test the effect of round goby predation on Dreissena in coastal lakes connected to eastern Lake Michigan, USA. First, we conducted a density gradient experiment using 1-m2 cages stocked with 0 to 15 large round gobies (individuals > 7.5 cm total length (TL)). Presence of large round gobies significantly reduced Dreissena densities in all cages. Second, we conducted an exclosure experiment (treatments: none, 6-mm, and 24-mm mesh) in four coastal lakes in littoral habitats. Excluding large round gobies did not significantly affect Dreissena densities in any of the lakes, although we did find a significant effect of excluding large-bodied (i.e., animals larger than adult round goby that cannot pass through 24-mm mesh) predators in one lake. In combination, our two experiments showed that the strength...
Increased Apoptosis in High-Fat Diet–Induced Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis in Rats Is Associated with c-Jun NH2-Terminal Kinase Activation and Elevated Proapoptotic Bax

Hepatocyte apoptosis in addition to oxidative stress could be a key component in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). However, the underlying mechanisms of hepatocellular apoptotic response associated with oxidative stress have not been investigated in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NASH models. In this study, Sprague-Dawley rats were fed either a Lieber-DeCarli control diet (CD; 35% energy from fat) or a HFD (71% energy from fat) for 6 wk. Pathologic lesions, lipid peroxidation products, and apoptotic hepatocytes in the liver were examined. The expressions of hepatic tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFalpha) and protein concentrations of cleaved caspase-3, cytochrome p4502E1 (CYP2E1), phosphorylated c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK), Bax, Bcl-2, and Bcl-xl were measured. Results showed that the key histological features of NASH, including steatosis, inflammatory cell infiltration, and ballooning degeneration of hepatocytes, were induced by HFD feeding, with increased hepatic TNFalpha mRNA expression. HFD-fed rats had elevated lipid peroxidation products and CYP2E1 protein in the liver. The apoptotic hepatocytes were significantly greater in livers of rats fed HFD than in those fed CD, and these were associated with a higher level of cleaved caspase-3. In addition, HFD feeding increased both hepatic phosphorylated JNK and pro-apoptotic Bax but did not affect anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl compared with CD feeding. These data indicate that the increased oxidative stress and its associated JNK activation as well as an imbalance of pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins in the Bcl-2 family all contribute to high hepatocyte apoptosis that may play an important role in the pathogenesis of NASH in this model.
Sex and Drugs: High-Risk Behaviors at Circuit Parties

HIV and other sexually transmitted infection rates are increasing among men who have sex with men. This increase may be attributed to the high rates of drug use and risky sexual behaviors at gay festive events called circuit parties. Although few studies have examined the actual level of risk, the implications from the available studies underscore the need for the development of interventions to address this public health concern. The 5 As approach provides an evidence-based approach to assist in behavior change that may reduce the HIV and sexually transmitted infection rates among gay and bisexual men who attend circuit parties. This article reviews the findings and recommendations from the few available studies on circuit parties and risk behavior. The authors propose that the 5 As approach for behavioral change be adapted by practitioners in the primary care setting.
College Students, Tattoos, and Sexual Activity:

This research examined the association of having a tattoo and engaging in premarital sexual intercourse. Data gathered from a convenience sample of 450 college students indicated that tattooed respondents were substantively and significantly more likely to be sexually active than nontattooed college students. Tattooed men became sexually active at a significantly earlier age than nontattooed men but no such difference was found between tattooed and nontattooed college women.
Carbon and sulfur isotopic signatures of ancient life and environment at the microbial scale: Neoarchean shales and carbonates

An approach to coordinated, spatially resolved, in situ carbon isotope analysis of organic matter and carbonate minerals, and sulfur three- and four-isotope analysis of pyrite with an unprecedented combination of spatial resolution, precision, and accuracy is described. Organic matter and pyrite from eleven rock samples of Neoarchean drill core express nearly the entire range of delta(sup 13)C, delta(sup 34)S, Delta(sup 33)S, and Delta(sup 36)S known from the geologic record, commonly in correlation with morphology, mineralogy, and elemental composition. A new analytical approach (including a set of organic calibration standards) to account for a strong correlation between H/C and instrumental bias in SIMS delta(sup 13)C measurement of organic matter is identified. Small (2-3 microns) organic domains in carbonate matrices are analyzed with sub-permil accuracy and precision. Separate 20- to 50-micron domains of kerogen in a single approx. 0.5 cu cm sample of the approx. 2.7 Ga Tumbiana Formation have delta(sup 13)C = 52.3 +/- 0.1per mille and 34.4 +/- 0.1per mille, likely preserving distinct signatures of methanotrophy and photoautotrophy. Pyrobitumen in the approx. 2.6 Ga Jeerinah Formation and the approx. 2.5 Ga Mount McRae Shale is systematically 13C-enriched relative to co-occurring kerogen, and associations with uraniferous mineral grains suggest radiolytic alteration. A large range in sulfur isotopic compositions (including higher Delta(sup 33)S and more extreme spatial gradients in Delta(sup 33)S and Delta(sup 36)S than any previously reported) are observed in correlation with morphology and associated mineralogy. Changing systematics of delta(sup 34)S, Delta(sup 33)S, and Delta(sup 36)S, previously investigated at the millimeter to centimeter scale using bulk analysis, are shown to occur at the micrometer scale of individual pyrite grains. These results support the emerging view that the dampened signature of mass-independent sulfur isotope fractionation (S-MIF) associated with the Mesoarchean continued into the early Neoarchean, and that the connections between methane and sulfur metabolism affected the production and preservation of S-MIF during the first half of the planet's history.
Experimental and computational study of CH, CH*, and OH* in an axisymmetric laminar diffusion flame

In this study, we extend the results of previous combined numerical and experimental investigations of an axisymmetric laminar diffusion flame in which difference Raman spectroscopy, laser-induced fluorescence (LIF), and a multidimensional flame model were used to generate profiles of the temperature and major and minor species. A procedure is outlined by which the number densities of ground-state CH (X(sup 2)II) excited-state CH (A(sup 2)Delta, denoted CH*), and excited-state OH (A(sup 2)Sigma, denoted OH*) are measured and modeled. CH* and OH* number densities are deconvoluted from line-of-sight flame-emission measurements. Ground-state CH is measured using linear LIF. The computations are done with GRI Mech 2.11 as well as an alternate hydrocarbon mechanism. In both cases, additional reactions for the production and consumption of CH* and OH* are added from recent kinetic studies. Collisional quenching and spontaneous emission are responsible for the de-excitation of the excited-state radicals. As with our previous investigations, GRI Mech 2.11 continues to produce very good agreement with the overall flame length observed in the experiments, while significantly under predicting the flame lift-off height. The alternate kinetic scheme is much more accurate in predicting lift-off height but overpredicts the over-all flame length. Ground-state CH profiles predicted with GRI Mech 2.11 are in excellent agreement with the corresponding measurements, regarding both spatial distribution and absolute concentration (measured at 4 ppm) of the CH radical. Calculations of the excited-state species show reasonable agreement with the measurements as far as spatial distribution and overall characteristics are concerned. For OH*, the measured peak mole fraction, 1.3 x 10(exp -8), compared well with computed peaks, while the measured peak level for CH*, 2 x 10(exp -9), was severely underpredicted by both kinetic schemes, indicating that the formation and destruction kinetics associated with excited-state species in flames require further research.
Naturalistic Theories of Life after Death

After rejecting substance dualism, some naturalists embrace patternism. It states that persons are bodies and that bodies are material machines running abstract person programs. Following Aristotle, these person programs are souls. Patternists adopt four-dimensionalist theories of persistence: Bodies are 3D stages of 4D lives. Patternism permits at least six types of life after death. It permits quantum immortality, teleportation, salvation through advanced technology, promotion out of a simulated reality, computational monadology, and the revision theory of resurrection.
Dynamic Risk Assessment: Prey Rapidly Adjust Flight Initiation Distance to Changes in Predator Approach Speed

The pre-eminent model of flight initiation distance assumes that the function relating predation risk to distance between predator and prey is constant. However, the risk-distance function can change dramatically during approaches by predators. Changes in predator behavior during approach and in availability of benefits (e.g. food or potential mates) may alter risks and/or costs during encounters. Thus, prey should be able to respond appropriately to changes in cues to risk, such as predator approach speed. Under the assumption that prey assess risk in real time, it was predicted that flight initiation distance (distance between predator and prey when escape begins) decreases when approach speed increases and increases when approach speed decreases during an encounter. Effects of single, abrupt changes from slower to faster approach or the reverse were studied in a lizard, Anolis lineatopus. Flight initiation distances were determined solely by final approach speed, being nearly identical for: (1) continuously fast approaches and approaches initially at the slower and finally at the faster speed and (2) for continuously slower approaches and approaches initially at faster and finally at slower speed. Escape should be adjusted to match changes in risk and cost caused by changes in predator behavior, ability to escape, and costs of escape as attacks unfold. A recent model by Broom and Ruxton [Behavioural Ecology (2004) vol. 16, pp. 534-540] predicts that cryptic prey should stay motionless until detected, then flee immediately. Our results suggest that current escape models can be applied to prey escape strategies when cues to risk change, by assuming that prey base decisions on the current relationship between risk and distance. Empirical studies are needed to test predictions concerning continuous risk assessment.
Treatment of Localized Juvenile Periodontitis (Periodontosis)

Localized juvenile periodontitis is a disease of the adolescent periodontium characterized by rapid alveolar destruction around molar and incisor teeth of the permanent dentition. Early treatment methods were variable and often empirical due to lack of knowledge concerning etiology. Elucidation of factors associated with the disease has led to different therapeutic approaches. A comprehensive review of these modalities is presented.
Targeting CD28 to prevent transplant rejection

Introduction: The pivotal role of costimulatory pathways in regulating T-cell activation versus tolerance has stimulated tremendous interest in their manipulation for therapeutic purposes. Of these, the CD28–B7 pathway is arguably the most important and best studied. Therapeutic targets of CD28 are currently used in the treatment of melanoma, autoimmune diseases and in transplantation. Areas covered: In this review, we summarize our current knowledge of CD28 and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) signaling, and review the current state and challenges of harnessing them to promote transplant tolerance. Expert opinion: Despite the success of belatacept, a first-in-class CTLA-4 fusion protein now clinically used in transplantation, it is apparent that we have only scratched the surface in understanding the complexities of how costimulatory pathways modulate the immune system. Our initial assumption that positive costimulators activate effector T cells and prevent tolerance, while negative costimulator...
Deciphering the Physiology Underlying the Rapid Clinical Effects of Perispinal Etanercept in Alzheimer's Disease

Excess tumor necrosis factor (TNF) plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease(AD). Clinical improvement following perispinal administration of etanercept in patients with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia and brain dysfunction is characteristically evident within minutes. The rapidity and constellation of the clinical effects across multiple domains (cognition, mood, memory, motor function, and attention) suggest they are mediated by non-synaptic signaling mechanisms previously unrecognized for etanercept. These mechanisms likely extend beyond the known roles of TNF as a gliotransmitter that modulates synaptic strength, synaptic scaling, and AMPA receptor trafficking. Preliminary basic science and clinical investigation suggests that perispinal administration of etanercept may lead to its rapid penetration into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the cerebral ventricles. Diffusion of large molecules into the periventricular brain parenchyma is known to occur, but this process may not be sufficient to explain the rapidity of the clinical effects. There exist populations of cells, including CSF-contacting neurons and modified ependymal cells called tanycytes, that have receptive surfaces in direct contact with the CSF. It is hypothesized that the rapid clinical effects of perispinal etanercept involve non-synaptic signal transduction across the ependymal barrier and into neuronal networks via these CSF-contacting cells. This hypothesis challenges the dogma that penetration of a therapeutic into the cerebral parenchyma through the endothelium of the cerebral vasculature (the so-called blood- brain barrier) is necessary to produce rapid clinical effects in AD. CSF-contacting cells may constitute a therapeutic target for a diverse group of brain, psychiatric and spinal disorders.
Parallel chemoenzymatic synthesis of sialosides containing a C5-diversified sialic acid.

A convenient chemoenzymatic strategy for synthesizing sialosides containing a C5-diversified sialic acid was developed. The α2,3- and α2,6-linked sialosides containing a 5-azido neuraminic acid synthesized by a highly efficient one-pot three-enzyme approach were converted to C5″-amino sialosides, which were used as common intermediates for chemical parallel synthesis to quickly generate a series of sialosides containing various sialic acid forms.
Generation of Polarization-Entangled Photons in a Standard Polarization-Maintaining Fiber

We demonstrate the capability of standard, commercially available polarization-maintaining fibers (PMFs) to generate polarization-entangled photon-pairs by inserting a PMF source into a Sagnac interferometer. We perform a quantum state tomography to reconstruct the density matrix, yielding, without background subtraction or spectral filtering, a polarization-entangled photon-pair state with 92.37 ± 0.14% fidelity to the maximally entangled Bell state. With its high coupling efficiency into SMFs and ability to produce spectrally uncorrelated photons, we expect this source to be useful for free-space and fiber-based quantum information protocols.
Estimation of Transient Error in Cognitive Ability Scales

In response to Schmidt, Le, and Ilies' (2003) call for further assessment of transient error variance in measures of key individual difference variables, the current study examines transient error estimates for eight speeded cognitive ability scales and a composite scale. One hundred twenty-three participants were tested on two occasions with a 1-week interval between administrations. Estimates of transient error ranged from a low of .01 to a high of .18, with an average value of .09. The coefficient of equivalence, based on the split-half method, resulted in overestimates of reliability by as little as 1.90% to as much as 25.96%, with an average 12.96%.
Citation and Censorship: The Politics of Talking About the Sexual Politics of Israel

In response to critics’ claims that a discussion of sexuality and nationalism vis-a-vis the Israeli-Palestinian conflict bears no relation to the author’s previous work, or to such discussions within the US or European contexts, this paper details the complex interconnections between Israeli gay and lesbian rights and the continued oppression of Palestinians. The first section examines existing discourses of what the author has previously called “homonationalism,” or the process by which certain forms of gay and lesbian sexuality are folded into the national body as the Muslim/Arab Other is cast as perversely queer, within Israel and the diasporas. The operations of homonationalism ensure that no discussion of gay and lesbian rights in Israel is independent from the state’s actions toward Palestine/Palestinians. The second section contains a critique of Israel’s practices of “pinkwashing” in the US and Europe. In order to redirect focus away from critiques of its repressive actions toward Palestine, Israel has attempted to utilize its relative “gay-friendliness” as an example of its commitment to Western “democratic” ideals. Massive public relations campaigns such as “Brand Israel” work to establish Israel’s reputation within the US and Europe as cosmopolitan, progressive, Westernized and democratic as compared with the backward, repressive, homophobic Islamic nations, which, in turn, serves to solidify Israel’s aggression as a position of the “defense” of democracy and freedom. The final section looks at the ways in which accusations of “anti-Semitism” function in academic and activist contexts to suppress critiques of the implicit nationalism within Israeli sexual politics.