cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Kinetic studies of the reactions between silicon nitride and carbon

The reactions between silicon nitride and carbon take place in two stages, the surface silica of silicon nitride powders reacts with carbon first followed by the decomposition of silicon nitride and the residual silicon reacting with carbon. The kinetics of the two stage reactions has been studied by isothermal thermogravimetric analysis. Physico-geometric models for both of the reaction stages have been proposed, and the kinetic parameters have been calculated. The implications of the kinetic models and parameters are discussed.
Energy addiction and lymphocyte differentiation: A new role for the liver kinase B1 kinase

Lymphocyte development is a process in which proliferation is coupled to differentiation. In order to undergo efficient proliferation, lymphocytes must coordinate the entry into cell cycle with increased metabolism. The signaling pathways, like those downstream of antigen and cytokine receptors, and specific regulators that directly control cell metabolism are only beginning to be defined. A study in this issue of the European Journal of Immunology, demonstrates that the liver kinase B1 (LKB1) is a regulator of cellular metabolism. Deficiency in LKB1 results in a block in T-cell differentiation, increased apoptosis, as well as impaired survival of mature T cells. This study highlights the importance of LKB1 in T-cell development and function, but as discussed in this Commentary, a number of intriguing questions concerning the regulation and additional functions of LKB1 remain.
Lysophosphatidylcholine Alters Valvular Interstitial Cell Mineralization

Abstract Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is a condition of the heart characterized by thickening and calcification of the aortic valve and can lead to aortic stenosis, narrowing of the aortic valve that can obstruct left ventricular outflow. CAVD is thought to have similarities with atherosclerosis, in which the aortic wall demonstrates thickening due to plaque buildup. A notable similarity seen between CAVD and atherosclerosis is the accumulation of lipids in the tissues. One important chemical component involved in atherosclerosis is lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), a phospholipid derived from phosphatidylcholine. LPC concentrations have been shown to increase in atherosclerotic conditions, and induce expression of osteogenic factors by vascular smooth muscle cells. The potential for LPC to affect valve cell calcification, however, has not been previously investigated. In addition, calcification of cells from different valves warrants investigation because the aortic valve becomes more bone-like and experiences onset of calcification sooner than the mitral valve during the calcification process. This study investigated the effect of LPC on the propensity for calcification by porcine valve interstitial cells (VICs) from aortic and mitral valves. On day 0 VICs were seeded at a density of 50 000 cells/cm2 in low serum media. On day 1, the media is changed to media containing LPC in concentrations ranging from 0 to 100 µM. The cells are cultured for 8 days and then assessed for mineralization using histological stains (Alizarin Red S for calcium deposition and Von Kossa for phosphate deposition) and biochemical assays (Alkaline phosphatase activity). Significance (p <0.05) was determined using Analysis of Variance followed by Tukey post-hoc testing. Interestingly, mineralization in the VIC cultures was decreased as LPC concentration increased from 0 to 1 µM. At 10 µM, however, an increase in mineralization was observed compared to the 1 µM cultures. VICs in 100 µM LPC media began to detach within 24 hours of LPC media application. Also, VICs from different valves displayed different levels of calcification at each condition. LPC alters mineralization in VIC cultures from both aortic and mitral valves, in a concentration dependent manner. Extremely high concentrations of LPC (at and above 100 µM) can be toxic to VICs. There is a unique behavior of VICs with addition of varying concentrations of LPC, most notably that low concentrations (below 10 µM) actually reduced mineralization. Other factors, such as effects of LPC on VIC proliferation and apoptosis, will be important to investigate in future work. This study demonstrates that LPC affects the mineralization potential of valvular cells in a way that is distinct from vascular cell types.
Comments on Howe: The Never-Ending Education Science Debate: I’m Ready to Move On:

The usefulness of positivist traditions in education research has been debated for some time, and there continue to be various epistemological and methodological camps regarding the question of what constitutes “good” or “real” research. The importance of educating all children necessitates that we think about what are the most effective and most appropriate methods for investigating specific problems, including methods that are outside positivist traditions. The author of this response to Howe (2009) addresses Howe’s critique of the education science question, points out what is missing in Howe’s critique, and considers the implications for conducting research that is critical to the education of all children, particularly those who traditionally have been underrepresented and under-served in the U.S. public education system.
Feeding Value of Corn Silage Containing Added Urea and Dried Whey

Abstract Corn silages containing either .5% urea plus 1% dried whey or .5% urea were compared in a lactation trial utilizing nine cows per treatment, in a feeding trial with ten 4 to 8 mo old heifers per treatment, and in a digestion trial with four 150kg Holstein steers per treatment. Cows received the silage ad libitum as the sole source of roughage and a 19% crude protein grain ration at 1 kg/2.5kg milk produced during the 10 wk lactation trial. Cows fed urea-whey silage produced more milk (31.6 to 29.3 kg/day) and were more persistent (−1.4 to −3.3 kg/day from pre-treatment production) than cows fed urea silage. No differences were found in percent milk fat, protein, or nonfat solids. Ruminal propionate and total volatile fatty acids were higher from cows fed urea-whey silage (39.8 to 30.4 μ M/ml and 124.2 to 111.8 μ M/ml). Weight gains and feed intake of heifers fed urea-whey or urea silages for a 16 wk growth trial were .90 and .84 kg/day, and 5.7 and 5.3kg dry matter/day. Digestion coefficients with steers were: dry matter, 65.9 and 64.2; nitrogen, 56.6 and 48.6; and digestible energy, 2.49 and 2.43 McalAg dry matter for urea-whey and urea corn silage. The lactation, growth, and digestion trials all indicated that adding dried whey to urea-treated corn silage improved the silage's feeding value.
Iron metabolism and absorption studies in the X-linked anaemia of mice.

Summary. The X-linked anaemia of mice (gene symbol, sla) is hypochromic and microcytic, and the stainable iron stores are reduced. Chemical estimates of total body iron content and serum iron concentration show low values and the total serum iron binding capacity is elevated in anaemic mice. Rapid plasma iron clearance and increased iron utilization provide further confirmation of iron deficiency in anaemic animals. Alterations in activity of haem-containing enzymes have been sought in the heart, liver and kidney of anaemic mice, and slightly decreased activity found only in kidney cytochrome oxidase. The blood volume of mice with X-linked anaemia is increased in spite of decreased red cell mass, and thus the anaemia is in part due to dilution. The cause of the increased blood volume has not been elucidated, but it may be related to splenic enlargement. In contrast to iron depleted humans and experimental animals, mice with X-linked anaemia show impaired rather than increased intestinal iron absorption, indicating that the anaemia is a consequence of iron malabsorption. The defect in iron absorption may be an isolated one, since evidence of impaired retention of orally administered radio-iodinated triolein, radio-zinc, radio-copper and radio-cobalt has not been found. It is suggested that the genetically-determined defect in the intestinal mucosa of mice with X-linked anaemia may be due to deficiency of either an enzyme or a carrier substance necessary for the normal transfer of iron from the intestinal mucosal cell to the plasma.
Letter Regarding Article by Arias et al, “Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome Affects Left Ventricular Diastolic Function: Effects of Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure in Men”

To the Editor: I read with great interest the article by Arias et al1 regarding effects of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on diastolic function in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Their study was meticulously done, and I applaud their effort in carrying out this project. Although they state that their data show an improvement in diastolic function after 12 weeks of CPAP, there are other possible interpretations to be considered. The group in whom changes in diastolic parameters were noted was older, with higher body mass index, blood pressure, and left ventricular mass. The vast majority had a pattern of impaired relaxation. Although there were statistically significant …
Photon echoes in LaF3:Nd3+ and YAG:Nd3+☆

Abstract Magnetic field and temperature dependent photon echo behavior in LaF3:Nd3+ and YAG:Nd3+ is reported and compared with corresponding behavior in CaWO4:Nd3+.
Theoretical Estimates of the Isotropic hfs Constants of Small Ions in the Neighborhood of a Massive Ion with an Unpaired Electron

Estimates of the isotropic part of the hyperfine constants of several small ions in the presence of a massive ion with an unpaired electron, by the use of a simple method, are reported here. Calculated results are found to be quite essential in the understanding of isotropic hfs observed in similar systems in the crystal environment.
Shear induced phase transitions in simple fluids

Abstract Computer simulation indicates that the pressure of a fluid under shear is a function of the strain rate. The phase diagram will be dependent on the shear and, in particular the critical point will be shifted. The effect is shown quantitatively for a Lennard-Jones fluid.
An interpretation of the Voyager measurement of jovian electron density profiles

Electron-density profiles measured for the daytime and nighttime Jovian ionosphere by the Voyager 1 radio-science experiment are analyzed. It is found that the measured profiles can be reproduced by using a model appropriate for an exospheric temperature of 1300 K with temperature varying above the homopause and with an eddy diffusion coefficient of 100,000 to 300,000 sq cm/s at the homopause. An overall rate constant of 4.3 x 10 to the -16th cu cm/s is estimated for the reaction H(+) + H2 (v-prime at least 4) yields H2(+) + H.
The role of renal catecholamines in hypertension.

We have found increased renal α 2 -adrenoceptor density and a defect in prostaglandin and parathyroid stimulated adenylate cyclase in two genetic forms of rat hypertension. Changes in serum calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels suggest biologic significance to this defective adenylate cyclase response. Our hypothesis is that one or more of these defects contribute to excess renal retention of sodium and increase vascular resistance of genetically hypertensive rats and humans with essential hypertension who have similar abnormalities of calcium and PTH.
Progression of autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease in children

Progression of autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease in children. Background Although many case reports describe manifestations of autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) in children, no longitudinal studies have examined the natural progression or risk factors for more rapid progression in a large number of children from ADPKD families. Methods Since 1985, we have studied 312 children from 131 families with a history, a physical examination, blood and urine chemistries, an abdominal ultrasonography, and gene linkage analysis. One hundred fifteen of 185 affected children were studied multiple times for up to 15 years. Renal volumes were determined by ultrasound imaging. Graphs of mean renal volumes according to age were compared between affected and unaffected children, ADPKD children with and without early severe disease, and children with and without high blood pressure. Results Affected children had faster renal growth than unaffected children. ADPKD children with severe renal enlargement at a young age continued to experience faster renal growth than those with mild enlargement or normal kidney size for their age, and affected children with high blood pressure had faster renal growth than those with lower blood pressure. Glomerular filtration rate did not decrease in any children except for two with unusually severe early onset disease. Conclusions The progression of ADPKD clearly occurs in childhood and manifests as an increase in cyst number and renal size. This study identifies children at risk for rapid renal enlargement who may benefit the most from future therapeutic interventions.
Disordering of platinum clusters

Abstract Platinum clusters less than 4 nm in diameter appear to “melt” when exposed to the electron beam in a scanning transmission electron microscope. The diffraction patterns of these disordered clusters show dynamic features which suggest that some micro-crystalline structure may still remain. The calculated steady-state temperature increase due to the interaction of the electron beam with the cluster and substrate is not sufficient to cause the cluster to melt even with melting-point depression considered. The clusters remain amorphous for an average of 20 minutes on a carbon substrate, and for 24 hours when supported on silica. The cause of “melting” (or disordering) and the recrystallization mechanism are, at present, unknown.
Survival of patients at pennsylvania hospital with hepatic metastases from carcinoma of the colon and rectum

A retrospective study of 58 patients with hepatic metastases from carcinoma of the colon at the time of initial operation revealed a median survival of 178 days from the time of operation. No chemotherapeutic agents were administered to any of the patients.
On idealized versions of Pr1(μ+, μ+, μ+, cf(μ))

We obtain an improvement of some coloring theorems from Eisworth (Fund Math 202:97---123, 2009; Ann Pure Appl Logic 161(10):1216---1243, 2010), Eisworth and Shelah (J Symb Logic 74(4):1287---1309, 2009) for the case where the singular cardinal in question has countable cofinality. As a corollary, we obtain an "idealized" version of the combinatorial principle Pr1(μ +, μ +, μ +, cf(μ)) that maximizes the indecomposability of the associated ideal.
Gene regulation profiles by progesterone and dexamethasone in human endometrial cancer Ishikawa H cells

Abstract Objective. Progesterone and glucocorticoids such as dexamethasone mediate distinct biological functions, yet they bind to receptors that recognize the same consensus DNA response element. In breast cancer, progestins are associated with the incidence and progression of tumors, whereas glucocorticoids are growth-suppressive in mammary cancer cells; the differential effects of these two steroids are less well understood in the hormone-dependent disease cancer of the uterine endometrium. We set out to identify genes that are regulated by progesterone through progesterone receptors and dexamethasone through glucocorticoid receptors in a well-differentiated human endometrial cancer cell line. Methods. PR- and GR-positive Ishikawa H endometrial cancer cells were treated with vehicle, dexamethasone (100 nM) or progesterone (100 nM) for 2 h, 6 h, 12 h and 24 h, and RNA was isolated. Affymetrix microarrays were performed using the human HG-U133A chip, querying the expression of 22,000 genes. Expression of genes of particular interest was confirmed by real-time RT-PCR. Results. Expression analysis demonstrated that dexamethasone and progesterone regulate overlapping but distinct sets of genes and presumably exert many similar but also unique biological effects. Using real-time RT-PCR, we confirmed three particular genes of interest: the transcript for cysteine 1 (legumain), a gene associated with metastasis, that is strongly downregulated by progesterone, upstream c- fos relating transcription factor-2 (USF-2), an anti-proliferative factor that is induced by both progesterone and dexamethasone and N-cadherin, a cellular adhesion molecule downregulated by dexamethasone. Conclusion. These studies provide new insight into the effects of progesterone and dexamethasone in endometrial cancer cells and provide an extensive list of regulated pathways which can be assessed in the future as biomarkers and molecular targets for new therapies. Taken together, our findings indicate that progesterone and dexamethasone are primarily growth inhibitors in Ishikawa H endometrial cancer cells.
Control of In vitro contamination of explants from greenhouse- and field-grown trees

Controlling fungal and bacterial contamination of woody plant material can be extremely difficult. Isothiazolone biocides and sodium dichloroisocyanurate have been used singly and in combination to reduce microbial contamination in bud explants derived from greenhouse- and field-grown citrus trees. Explants from greenhouse-grown trees were effectively disinfested (<5% vs. 85% contamination) using a ‘standard’ disinfestation (SD) procedure followed by culture on medium containing 5 ml l−1 Plant Preservative Mixture, or by the SD procedure but substituting 300 ppm sodium dichloroisocyanurate for 48 h for the treatment with 1.05% NaOCl in the SD procedure. Disinfestation of explants from field-grown trees was less effective than explants from the greenhouse, but was improved (10% vs. 47% contamination) by using a combination of the SD procedure with 1.05% NaOCl, or 100 or 300 ppm sodium dichloroisocyanurate followed by culture onto medium containing 5 ml l−1 Plant Preservative Mixture.
Conservation potential for heathland carabid beetle fauna of linear trackways within a plantation forest

1.Exploring conservation and connectivity potential of landscape linkages implies studies on the level of population and community structure. 2. We examined carabid beetle communities within a network of open linear trackways embedded in a plantation forest, in a region where conservation interest focuses on heathland associated species. The relative importance of environmental characteristics such as width, orientation, age of surrounding plantations and vegetation height on species associated with grassland, heathland and sandy habitats (GHS species) was explored in 36 trackway elements. 3.A total of 3554 individuals were collected of which 1465 were GHS specialists. Linear trackways supported important carabid beetle diversity including 17 GHS species of which six are nationally scarce within the UK. 4.The age of adjacent plantations was the most important factor determining community composition of carabids with GHS species favouring trackways surrounded by younger plantations. For predicting number and abundance of GHS species within a subset of trackways surrounded by younger plantations, models incorporating sward height in verges showed the strongest relationships. But results were statistically significant only for predicting abundance of the dominant GHS species Harpalus rufipalpis, which favoured wider trackways with lower vegetation and greater cover of bare sand. 5.Current conservation management using forage harvesting of trackways does not improve habitat quality for GHS carabids. Seemingly continuous network of linear linkages is interrupted by sections of less suitable habitat surrounded by older plantations. Conservation potential could be enhanced by widening of trackways and management by physical disturbance of soil and vegetation.
Experiments and Theory in the Preparative Sciences

In this essay I consider, by way of the reflections of accomplished synthetic chemists, how the experimental work of the synthetic organic chemist supports the testing, refinement, and creation of theories of organic chemistry. The role of experiments in modern Baconian sciences like organic chemistry is contrasted with their role in fields of more traditional philosophical concern, such as experimental physics.
Shear wave scattering from a debonded fibre

Abstract Scattering of an antiplane shear wave from a single fibre partially bonded to a matrix is considered. The region of debonding is modeled as an interface crack with non-contacting faces; the crack opening displacement is represented by Chebyshev polynomials, and a system of equations is derived for the unknown coefficients. The solution is valid for arbitrary values of K 1 a, where K 1 is the incident wavenumber and a the fibre radius; and the semi-angle δ subtended by the crack may vary from zero to π. The general solution simplifies in two limiting situations: (i) if δ is small, and k 1 aδ is also small, then the wavelength greatly exceeds the crack length and the crack is effectively subject to a static loading determined by the dynamic field around the perfectly bonded fibre. Explicit expressions can be obtained for the COD and the scattered field in this case; (ii) when the crack semi-angle is finite, but k 1 a is small, then both the field in the fibre and the crack loading are quasistatic. The dependence of the scattered field on δ is particularly simple; however, the quasistatic theory breaks down at surprisingly low values of k1 a when the fibre becomes almost completely separated from the matrix. The narrow neck joining the matrix and fibre permits the fibre to oscillate at very low frequencies and causes a strong resonance in the scattering cross-section. The general and approximate results for the single fibre are used to estimate the attentuation of a wave propagating through a composite with many fibres and the possibility of quantitative detection of debonding using ultrasound attenuation measurements is discussed.
Relative numbers of several types of synaptic connections in the substantia gelatinosa of the cat spinal cord

The relative numbers of axo-dendritic, axo-axonic, dendro-axonic and dendro-dendritic synapses were determined by classifying and recording all such specialized contacts in sample areas of the substantia gelatinosa. The samples were taken from segments L1-L5 of the cat spinal cord. In the glomerular complexes 97% of all synapses were recorded as axo-dentritic. In substantia gelatinosa deprived of glomerular complexes by dorsal root section, 96.5% were axo-dendritic. The remainders were about equally divided between axo-axonic, dendro-dendritic and dendro-axonic synapses.
Molecular Histopathology by Nonlinear Interferometric Vibrational Imaging

A rapid label-free approach for molecular histopathology is presented and reviewed. Broadband vibrational spectra are generated by nonlinear interferometric vibrational imaging (NIVI), a coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS)-based technique that uses interferometry and signal processing approaches to acquire Raman-like profiles with suppression of the non-resonant background. This allows for the generation of images that provide contrast based on quantitative chemical composition with high spatial and spectral resolution. Algorithms are demonstrated for reducing the diagnostic spectral information into color-coded composite images for the rapid identification of chemical constituents in skin, as well as differentiating normal from abnormal tissue in a pre-clinical tumor model for human breast cancer. This technology and methodology could result in an alternative method to the traditional histological staining and subjective interpretation procedure currently used in the diagnosis of disease, and has the potential for future in vivo molecular histopathology.
Photocontrol of Formation of Red Kidney Bean Leaf Triphosphopyridine Nucleotide Linked Triosephosphate Dehydrogenase

The enzynmatic oxidation of glyceraldehyde-3phosphate is mediated by either DPN or TPN. The reaction involving DPN is present in both mammalian (6) and plant tissues, (11, 15) while that involving TPN (equation 1) has been found only in plant leaves 1) D-glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate + TPN + + phosphate ? 1,3-diphosphoglyceric acid + TPNH + H+ (8, 12). Hageman and Arnon (12) showed that the TPN triosephosphate dehydrogenase appeared only in leaves of seedlings that had been exposed to light. Since such exposure results in the formation of chlorophyll, it was suggested (2, 12) that the TPN enzyme was associated with photosynthesis. The present investigation was designed to ascertain the nature of the light requirement for the formation of the TPN triosephosphate dehydrogenase. The possibility was considered that, like many of the light-controlled plant processes, (3, 7, 14) radiation in the red region would be the controlling factor. Such control by the photomorphogenic reaction would result in the formation of TPN triosephosphate dehydrogenase in the absence of chlorophyll. The results to be reported support this suggestion.
How is a tissue built

Tissues change in many ways in the period that they are part of a living organism. They are created in fairly repeatable structural patterns, and we know that the patterns are due to both the genes and the (mechanical) environment, but we do not know exactly what part or percentage of a particular pattern to consider the genes, or the environment, responsible for. We do not know much about the beginning of tissue construction (morphogenesis) and we do not know the methods of tissue construction. When the tissue structure is altered to accommodate a new loading, we do not know how the decision is made for the structural reconstruction. We do know that tissues grow or reconstruct themselves without ceasing to continue with their structural function, but we do not understand the processes that permit them to accomplish this. Tissues change their structures to altered mechanical environments, but we are not sure how. Tissues heal themselves and we understand little of the structural mechanics of the process. With the objective of describing the interesting unsolved mechanics problems associated with these biological processes, some aspects of the formation, growth, and adaptation of living tissues are reviewed. The emphasis is on ideas and models. Beyond the objective is the hope that the work will stimulate new ideas and new observations in the mechanical and chemical aspects of developmental biology.
Production and perception of a novel, second‐language phonetic contrast

Four experiments, all of which focused on vowel duration, assessed Chinese subjects’ production and perception of the contrast between /t/ and /d/ in the final position of English words. Vowel duration was measured in minimal pairs in the first experiment. The stimuli in natural‐edited beat–bead and bat–bad continua in which vowel duration varied in 20‐ms steps were then presented to native English and Chinese subjects in a forced‐choice test, in an experiment using the method of adjustment, and in an imitation task. The non‐natives who learned English in childhood closely resembled native speakers in all four experiments. Three groups of non‐natives who had learned English as a second language in adulthood, on the other hand, differed from the native speakers. The late learners produced significantly longer vowels in words ending in /d/ than /t/. However, the late learners’ vowel duration differences were much smaller than the native speakers’, and were correlated significantly with degree of foreign accent in English. The late learners differed from the native speakers in several ways in the two perception experiments, and also in the imitation task. The pattern of significant and nonsignificant between‐group differences, but not data for individual subjects, was consistent with the hypothesis that L2 (second language) production accuracy is limited by the adequacy of perceptual representations for sounds in the L2.
Clinical and Laboratory Biology of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

A cute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common malignancy of childhood, accounting for 25% of cancers diagnosed in children and adolescents aged 1-19 years, and translating to approximately 3000 new cases diagnosed in the US yearly. Progress in therapy for childhood ALL has been dramatic, with event-free survival (EFS,meaning that patients do not relapse or succumb to side effects) improving from 10%-15% in the 1960s to as high as 80% in published studies from early 2000 in developed countries (Table I). Present cure rates are estimated to approach 90%. The primary factors that led to advances in ALL survival are: (1) the development of multiagent chemotherapy regimens based on the results of successive cooperative group protocols; (2) the use of preventive or prophylactic central nervous system (CNS) therapy to prevent relapse in this sanctuary site; (3) intensification of conventional chemotherapy by increasing the number of agents, dose, and/or schedule; and (4) allocation of therapy based on the predicted risk of relapse using clinicaland laboratory-based outcome variables (‘‘risk-adapted therapy’’). The fact that childhood cancer is relatively rare and that no single institution accrues a sufficient number of cases to allow for randomized trials of interventions led to an early history of international collaboration and the development of highly disciplined cooperative group protocols, which have been critical to the success in improving outcomes. Despite these advances, significant challenges remain. First, even with the most contemporary therapy, up to 1 in 5 children may suffer disease recurrence, and their prognosis is poor. Death due to relapsed ALL remains one of the leading causes of cancer mortality in children. Second, even though current therapy is associated with gratifying outcomes, treatment is associated with shortand long-term side effects.
A Prospective Study Utilizing a Transtelephonic Electrocardiographic Transmission Program to Manage Patients in the First Several Months Post‐ICD Implant

We prospectively enrolled 20 consecutive patients (11 men and 9 women; mean age 63 +/- 9.5 years) post-AICD implant in a transtelephonic electrocardiographic transmission (TET) program. The monitor was chosen for its retrograde (30 seconds) and antegrade memory capabilities (45 seconds). The patients were discharged from the hospital after receiving instructions to utilize the system for any cardiac symptoms. The monitor was worn 1-3 months (mean 2.5 +/- 0.7 months). During the follow-up period there were 54 TETs received. Nine were for documented AICD discharges, 19 were for symptoms associated with arrhythmias (11 of these 19 reported AICD discharges that were not documented), and 26 for symptoms not associated with arrhythmias. Eight of the 9 AICD discharges documented were appropriate for ventricular tachycardia (mean 185 +/- 40 beats/min). The arrhythmias associated with symptoms were: atrial fibrillation (12); nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (3); ventricular couplets (2); ventricular premature beats (10); and atrial premature contractions (2). Several TETs documented multiple arrhythmias. The most common symptoms not associated with arrhythmias were shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, and nervousness. Office interrogation of the AICDs revealed 12 of the 20 patients (60%) had received AICD discharges, with 5 of these 12 patients unaware of this occurring. We found the TET monitoring system a useful tool in the management of the AICD patient the first several months postoperatively. We were able to assess device function and avoid unnecessary office visits and/or hospitalizations.
Evaluating health information literacy training in underserved communities.

This poster addresses issues related to measuring how e-Health can be a tool for reducing health disparities in minority communities in a state in the US. In the context of the 2009 ASIS&T meeting, it relates to the topics of taking a multidisciplinary approach to developing, delivering, and evaluating health information resource education in under-served communities. This poster summarizes the data collected and provides a progress report on a yearlong effort to evaluate the utility of a program to disseminate information about the resources available through the NLM's information portals.
New discoveries linking transcription to DNA repair and damage tolerance pathways

In Escherichia coli, the transcription elongation factor NusA is associated with all elongating RNA polymerases where it functions in transcription termination and antitermination. Here, we review our recent results implicating NusA in the recruitment of DNA repair and damage tolerance mechanisms to sites of stalled transcription complexes.
Abstract 1530: The obligate role of microglia in tumorigenesis in a mouse model of neurofibromatosis-1 optic glioma

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL Brain tumors (gliomas) are composed of heterogeneous populations of neoplastic and non-neoplastic cells. While the neoplastic cells have classically been the target of therapeutic drug design, recent studies have demonstrated a critical role for non-neoplastic cells in brain tumor growth. The importance of non-neoplastic (stromal) cells is underscored by genetically-engineered mouse (GEM) models of Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1)-associated optic glioma. Whereas mice lacking Nf1 gene expression in GFAP+ glial cells do not develop brain tumors, nearly 100% of Nf1+/− mice with GFAP+ cell Nf1 inactivation form optic gliomas. These observations establish an obligate role for Nf1+/− non-neoplastic cells in gliomagenesis. One of the non-neoplastic cell types found in both mouse and human NF1-associated gliomas is microglia, a resident population of macrophage-like cells. To prove that microglia are essential drivers of glioma formation, we generated Nf1 optic glioma mice with reduced expression of the microglial chemokine receptor CX3CR1 (Nf1+/−GFAPCKO-cx3cr1+/GFP mice). Consistent with the critical role of CX3CR1 in microglial function, Nf1+/−GFAPCKO-cx3cr1+/GFP mice had reduced numbers of Iba1+ microglia in the optic nerve. Moreover, Nf1+/−GFAPCKO-cx3cr1+/GFP mice had optic glioma proliferative indices and optic nerve volumes comparable to those found in wild-type mice, demonstrating that microglia are necessary for optic nerve gliomagenesis. Collectively, these findings establish an obligate role for microglia in glioma formation and suggest that CX3CR1 is a potential target for future therapeutic drug design. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1530. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-1530
Must False Consciousness Be Rationally Caused

Denise Meyerson has recently argued that the adaptational account of false consciousness must appeal to a psychological element, contrary to explicit declarations of its proponents. In order to explain why the rulers genuinely hold ideological beliefs, one must take them to desire to think well of themselves. She concludes that the desire to think well of oneself causes the ideological beliefs. The article defends the adaptational account from Meyerson's attempt to ground it in the psychology of the rulers. Meyerson is wrong both in thinking that the desire in question is explanatorily necessary and in thinking that its explanatory role would consist in its causing ideological beliefs.
Nano-diamond ridge structure emission arrays capped on micro-patterned silicon pillars

CVD nano-diamond structures are interesting electron emitters because of their superior electronic properties and tolerance to operate at much higher temperatures and harsh environments [1]. Other advantages of nano-diamond as emitters include chemical and electrical stability, high breakdown voltage, low turn-on electric field and excellent thermal conductivity [1]. In this paper, we report the fabrication and observation of electron field emission from an array nano-diamond ridge structure capped on micropatterned silicon pillars.
Constraints on Core Composition from Shock-Wave Data

Seismic data demonstrate that the density of the liquid core is some 8-10 % less than pure iron. Equations of state of Fe-Si, C, FeS_2, FeS, KFeS_2 and FeO, over the pressure interval 133-364 GPa and a range of possible core temperatures (3500-5000 K), can be used to place constraints on the cosmochemically plausible light element constituents of the core (Si, C, S, K and O). The seismically derived density profile allows from 14 to 20 % Si (by mass) in the outer core. The inclusion of Si, or possibly C (up to 11 %), in the core is possible if the Earth accreted inhomogeneously within a region of the solar nebulae in which a C:O (atomic) ratio of about 1 existed, compared with a C:O ratio of 0.6 for the present solar photosphere. In contrast, homogeneous accretion permits Si, but not C, to enter the core by means of reduction of silicates to metallic Fe-Si core material during the late stages of the accumulation of the Earth. The data from the equation of state for the iron sulphides allow up to 9-13 % S in the core. This composition would provide the entire Earth with a S:Si ratio in the range 0.14-0.3, comparable with meteoritic and cosmic abundances. Shock-wave data for KFeS_2 give little evidence for an electronic phase change from 4s to 3d orbitals, which has been suggested to occur in K, and allow the Earth to store a cosmic abundance of K in the metallic core.
Co‐operative signalling mechanisms required for erythroid precursor expansion in response to erythropoietin and stem cell factor

The regeneration of circulating red blood cells in response to anaemia associated with blood loss or haemolysis involves an increased rate of erythropoiesis and expansion of proerythroblasts, the bone marrow precursor cells that terminally differentiate into mature erythrocytes. This study investigated the mechanisms by which erythropoietin (Epo) and stem cell factor (Scf) modulate the expansion of proerythroblasts. Homogenous populations of primary human proerythroblasts were generated in liquid cultures of CD34(+) cells. In serum-free cultures, proerythroblasts failed to survive in the presence of Epo or Scf alone, but exhibited synergistic proliferation in response to combined Epo and Scf treatment, exhibiting one-log expansion in 5 d. Intracellular signal transduction in response to Epo and Scf revealed that tyrosine phosphorylation of signal transducers and activators of transcription (Stat) 5, a downstream target for the non-receptor tyrosine kinase, Janus kinase 2 (Jak2), was mediated by Epo but not Scf. The mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) extracellular regulated kinase (Erk) 1-2 were phosphorylated in response to either Epo or Scf. Phosphorylation of Akt, a signalling molecule downstream of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), was observed following Scf but not Epo treatment. To determine the contribution of specific signalling pathways to synergistic expansion of proerythroblasts in response to co-operative effects of Epo and Scf, cells were treated with kinase inhibitors targeting Jak2, PI3K and MAPK kinase. There was a significant, dose-dependent inhibition of proerythroblast expansion in response to all three kinase inhibitors. In conclusion, Epo- and Scf-mediated co-operative, synergistic expansion of primary erythroid precursors requires selective activation of multiple signalling pathways, including the Jak-Stat, PI3K and MAPK pathways.
Th and U isotopic systematics of basalts from the Juan de Fuca and Gorda Ridges by mass spectrometry

We have developed a mass spectrometric technique for the measurement of 230Th/232Th ratios in young volcanic rocks. We show that we can measure 230Th/232Th ratios on MORB samples of ∼- 1 gram with an accuracy and reproducibility of 0.5–1.0%. This represents an improvement of at least a factor of 5–10 in sample size and precision over conventional alpha spectrometry methods. Using this technique, we have measured distinct excesses of230Th activity relative to238U activity for axial samples from the Juan de Fuca (JDF) and Gorda Ridges. These enrichments are 13–15% but range up to 40% in one sample. Low boron concentrations and 234U/238U ratios corresponding to secular equilibrium verify the absence of detectable seawater contamination. From this we infer that primary magmatic processes are the source of the measured230Th activity excesses, and that Th is indeed more incompatible than U during partial melting of MORB sources. 230Th/232Th activity ratios for the axial samples from JDF appear to be relatively high for uncontaminated MORB, ranging from 1.35 to 1.41. From this we infer that the JDF basalts formed from a uniform source highly depleted in Th relative to U (Th/Uwt= 2.15–2.25). One Gorda axial sample has a somewhat lower 230Th/232Th activity ratio of 1.31, suggesting formation from a source only slightly less depleted (Th/U= 2.32 ± 0.02). Based on the small range in 30Th/232Th ratios for axial basalts from JDF, dating off-axis JDF basalts may be feasible.
1280 THE ANOGENITAL INDEX: A WAY TO IDENTIFY ABNORMAL LABIOSCROTAL FUSION IN INFANTS?

The clinical detection of virilized genitalia can be difficult in the preterm female since clitoral size is fully developed by the 27th wk gestation while the body as a whole is not. Absence of fat in the labia majora also makes the clitoris appear more prominent. Androgen-induced labioscrotal fusion will increase the anogenital distance, but we could find no published normal values. We have made 116 measurements of the following distances: anogenital or anus to fourchette (AF); fourchette to clitoris (FC); and anus to clitoris (AC) in infants of 27-42 wk gestational age. Not surprisingly all distances showed positive and significant correlations with body surface area, weight, length and gestational age (p<0.001). The ratio of AF/FC and AF/AC follows a Gaussian distribution and does not correlate with any of the above anthropometric variables or gestational age. Mean values ±SD for all subjects measured to date are: AF/FC = 0.582±0.149; AF/AC = 0.373±0.065. An anogenital index (AF/AC) greater than 0.5 falls outside the 95% confidence limit. This suggests labioscrotal fusion and indicates a need for further evaluation. The anogenital index is not difficult to measure if proper care is taken. Since it is independent of body size and gestational age, it should be a useful tool in the diagnosis of abnormal genitalia in both premature and full term female infants. (Supported in part by GCRC grant RR00425.)
The Conductivity of a High Frequency Discharge in Hydrogen

Measurements were made of the voltage between electrodes necessary to produce a current of 100 milliamperes in the discharge for gas pressures between 0.005 mm and 1.0 mm and for frequencies of oscillation between 1.25 and 20 million cycles per second (wave-lengths between 240 and 15 meters). It was found that the discharge has its maximum conductivity when operated at a frequency of 15 million cycles (20 meters) and a pressure of 0.015 mm. A theory of the mechanism of the high frequency discharge indicates that under these conditions, an electron makes an inelastic collision with a gas molecule every electronic mean free path having been under the influence of the electric force for one half cycle. The theory also indicates that for any frequency of oscillation greater than 15 million cycles, both the electric force and the gas pressure for which the conductivity is a maximum, will increase directly with the frequency of oscillation.
Relative stability and weak convergence in non-decreasingstochastically monotone Markov chains

Let { ξ n } be a non-decreasing stochastically monotone Markov chain whose transition probability Q ( . , . ) has 0$" xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML"> Q ( x , { x } ) = β ( x ) > 0 for some function β ( . ) that is non-decreasing with β ( x ) ↑ 1 as x → + ∞ , and each Q ( x , . ) is non-atomic otherwise. A typical realization of { ξ n } is a Markov renewal process { ( X n , T n ) } , where ξ j = X n , for T n consecutive values of j , T n geometric on { 1 , 2 , … } with parameter β ( X n ) . Conditions are given for X n , to be relatively stable and for T n to be weakly convergent.
Direct Evidence that the Arcuate Nucleus-Median Eminence Tuberoinfundibular System Is Not of Primary Importance in the Feedback Regulation of Luteinizing Hormone and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Secretion in the Castrated Rat*

Adult rats which have received monosodium-L-glutamate (MSG, 4 mg/g BW) on alternate days for the first 10 days of life manifest central nervous system lesions largely restricted to the retina and the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus in which nearly 90% of the perikarya are destroyed, leaving axons in passage intact. In animals so treated, concentrations of dopamine within the arcuate nucleus and median eminence of the hypothalamus are reduced 52% and 57%, respectively, in males and 45% and 61% in females, whereas concentrations of norepinephrine in these same two areas are normal. Concentrations of both norepinephrine and dopamine in five other hypothalamic nuclei (dorsal septal, medial preoptic, suprachiasmatic, periventricular, and dorsomedial nuclei) are unchanged. Nevertheless, despite the destruction of the arcuate nucleus cell bodies of MSG-treated rats, postcastration levels of serum FSH and LH in males, and FSH in females were not significantly different from FSH and LH values in castrated controls. Serum LH in castrated, MSG-treated females was slightly but significantly lower than in castrated controls. It is concluded that the arcuate nucleus-median eminence tuberoinfundibular neurons are not of primary importance in the tonic, negative feedback regulation of gonadotropin secretion.
Ultrasound-mediated transdermal in vivo transport of insulin with low-profile cymbal arrays.

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of ultrasound (US)-mediated transdermal delivery of insulin in vivo using rats with a novel, low profile two-by-two US array based on the “cymbal” (due to its unique shape) transducer. As a practical device, the cymbal array (f = 20 kHz) was 37 × 37 × 7 mm in size, and weighed less than 22 g. A total of 20 Sprague–Dawley rats (350 to 450 g) were divided into four groups, two controls and two US exposure, with five rats in each group. The rats were anesthetized and shaved; a water-tight standoff reservoir, which held the insulin or saline, was sealed against the rat’s abdomen and the US array. At the beginning of the experiment and every 30 min for 90 min, 0.3 mL of blood was collected from the jugular vein to determine the blood glucose level (mg/dL). For comparison between the rats, the change in the glucose level for each rat was normalized to a baseline (i.e., 0 mg/dL). The first control group used insulin in the reservoir with no US and the second control group had saline in the reservoir with US operating at ISPTP = 100 mW/cm2 for 60 min. For the experiments, the third group employed insulin with US exposure for 60 min (ISPTP = 100 mW/cm2), whereas the last group used insulin with US operating with a 20-min exposure (ISPTP = 100 mW/cm2) to examine the effects of time on delivery. For the 60-min US exposure group, the glucose level was found to decrease from the baseline to −267.5 ± 61.9 mg/dL in 1 h. Moreover, to study the effects of US exposure time on insulin delivery, the 20-min group had essentially the same result as the 60-min exposure at a similar intensity, which indicates that the expose time does not need to be as long for delivery. (E-mail: nbs@engr.psu.edu)