cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Novel epigenetic determinants of type 2 diabetes in mexican american families

Although DNA methylation is now recognized as an important mediator of complex diseases, the extent to which the genetic basis of such diseases is accounted for by DNA methylation is unknown. In the setting of large, extended families representing a minority, high-risk population of the USA, we aimed to characterize the role of epigenome-wide DNA methylation in type 2 diabetes (T2D). Using Illumina HumanMethylation450 BeadChip arrays, we tested for association of DNA methylation at 446 356 sites with age, sex and phenotypic traits related to T2D in 850 pedigreed Mexican-American individuals. Robust statistical analyses showed that (i) 15% of the methylome is significantly heritable, with a median heritability of 0.14; (ii) DNA methylation at 14% of CpG sites is associated with nearby sequence variants; (iii) 22% and 3% of the autosomal CpG sites are associated with age and sex, respectively; (iv) 53 CpG sites were significantly associated with liability to T2D, fasting blood glucose and insulin resistance; (v) DNA methylation levels at five CpG sites, mapping to three well-characterized genes (TXNIP, ABCG1 and SAMD12) independently explained 7.8% of the heritability of T2D (vi) methylation at these five sites was unlikely to be influenced by neighboring DNA sequence variation. Our study has identified novel epigenetic indicators of T2D risk in Mexican Americans who have increased risk for this disease. These results provide new insights into potential treatment targets of T2D.
Anti-Sm B cell differentiation in Ig transgenic MRL/Mp-lpr/lpr mice: Altered differentiation and an accelerated response

To determine the regulation of B cells specific for the ribonucleoprotein Sm, a target of the immune system in human and mouse lupus, we have generated mice carrying an anti-Sm H chain transgene (2-12H). Anti-Sm B cells in nonautoimmune 2-12H-transgenic (Tg) mice are functional, but, in the absence of immunization, circulating anti-Sm Ab levels are not different from those of non-Tg mice. In this report, we compare the regulation of anti-Sm B cells in nonautoimmune and autoimmune MRL/Mp-lpr/lpr (MRL/lpr) and bcl-2-22-Tg mice. Activation markers are elevated on splenic and peritoneal anti-Sm B cells of both nonautoimmune and autoimmune genetic backgrounds indicating Ag encounter. Although tolerance to Sm is maintained in 2-12H/bcl-2-22-Tg mice, it is lost in 2-12H-Tg MRL/lpr mice, as the transgene accelerates and increases the prevalence of the anti-Sm response. The 2-12H-Tg MRL/lpr mice have transitional anti-Sm B cells in the spleen similar to nonautoimmune mice. However, in contrast to nonautoimmune mice, there are few if any peritoneal anti-Sm B-1 cells. These data suggest that a defect in B-1 differentiation may be a factor in the loss of tolerance to Sm and provide insight into the low prevalence of the anti-Sm response in lupus.
The relation of early childhood training and experience to the professional development of child care workers

This study investigated (a) the extent to which personnel in licensed group child care centers engage in conventional professional development practices and (b) the relation of formal training in early childhood education and child care experience to variations in professional development behaviors. Questionnaire data from 533 directors, teachers, and teacher aides indicated limited involvement in conventional practices of professional development. The majority used printed information sources, particularly lay publications, and conferences; coworkers were the most helpful information sources. A minority reported membership in a professional organization. Higher levels of both training and experience were associated with high involvement in conventional forms of professional development. Increased levels of training and experience were related independently to use of professional publications, membership in professional organizations, and conference attendance. Higher levels of training but not experience were associated with decreased use of center information sources, professional reading during nonwork hours, and the helpfulness of conferences. No or limited training was related to use of lay sources for information and determining job effectiveness. Implications for child care policy and information dissemination practices are discussed.
POLYAMINE REGULATORY PROCESSES AND OXIDATIVE STRESS IN MONOCROTALINE‐TREATED PULMONARY ARTERY ENDOTHELIAL CELLS

Alterations in polyamine metabolism may be a critical mechanism of monocrotaline (MCT)-induced structural remodeling of the pulmonary vasculature. In the present study, the hypothesis that MCT, through the induction of oxidative stress, modulates cellular polyamine regulatory mechanisms which in turn might be involved in the upregulation of fibronectin production in pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAEC) was examined. A 24-h treatment with MCT significantly increased PAEC polyamine concentrations as compared to vehicle-treated cells. In addition, exposure to MCT caused an increase in abundance of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) mRNA, upregulation of ODC activity and enhancement of spermidine import into PAEC. Inhibition ofde novopolyamine synthesis further increased spermidine uptake in MCT-treated cells. The depletion of cellular polyamine contents through the blockade of bothde novopolyamine biosynthesis and polyamine transport prevented MCT-induced increases in the medium level of fibronectin. In addition, PAEC treatment with MCT stimulated cellular oxidative stress as determined by increased levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, enhanced dichlorofluorescein fluorescence and activation of NF-KB. A co-treatment with dimethylthiourea, an oxygen radical scavenger, prevented MCT-induced increases in cellular oxidation and attenuated disturbances in polyamine metabolism. These data suggest that MCT can stimulate polyamine regulatory processes in PAEC possibly through an increase in cellular oxidative stress. The present study may have significant implication in understanding mechanisms of MCT-induced pulmonary hypertension and remodeling of pulmonary vasculature.
Über Aminoalkoholester von Hydroxyboranen, IV. Boroxazolidine; Dipolmomente in Dioxan

Von Verbindungen mit der wahrscheinlich cyclisch eingebauten Atomgruppierung NBO wurden Dipolmomente in Dioxan gemessen. Innerhalb der Fehlergrenze ist das Dipolmoment fur mono-, bi- und tricyclische Funfring-Systeme gleich, wenn diese am Stickstoff auser H keine weiteren Substituenten tragen. N-Alkylsubstituenten erhohen das Dipolmoment, wahrscheinlich durch Dehnung der koordinativen NB-Bindungen infolge sterischer Wechselwirkungen. Auch Vergroserung der Ringgliederzahl fuhrt in der monocyclischen Reihe zu einer Erhohung des Dipolmoments.
Experimental investigation of smoothing by spectral dispersion

Measurements of smoothing rates for smoothing by spectral dispersion (SSD) of high-power, solid-state laser beams used for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) research are reported. Smoothing rates were obtained from the intensity distributions of equivalent target plane images for laser pulses of varying duration. Simulations of the experimental data with the known properties of the phase plates and the frequency modulators are in good agreement with the experimental data. These results inspire confidence in extrapolating to higher bandwidths and other SSD configurations that may be suitable for ICF experiments and ultimately for direct-drive laser-fusion ignition.
Ab initio study of H chemisorption on Li clusters in fcc(100) symmetry

Properties of lithium clusters with fcc(100) symmetry have been investigated using the techniques of many-body perturbation theory. Interaction of atomic hydrogen with these clusters has been studied in detail for the on-top, open, and bridge positions.
Study of HLA-DR Synthesis in Cultured Human Keratinocytes

Abstract Within the normal human epidermis only Langerhans and indeterminate cells express HLA-DR. Human keratinocytes (HK), however, may also express HLA-DR in certain disease states characterized by mononuclear cell infiltrates. Previous studies have shown that HK synthesize HLA-DR in response to stimulation by interferon gamma (INF-γ). The purposes of this study were to define conditions under which cultured HK might express HLA-DR and to compare the HLA-DR synthesis of HK with that of monocytes. HLA-DR expression by HK as determined by indirect immunofluorescence of HK cultures was absent under standard low calcium conditions and remained absent with the addition of calcium, serum, mitogens, and supernatants from Pam-212 cells containing epidermal thymocyte-activating factor. HLA-DR expression in HK was induced by cocultivation with concanavalin A-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), but not unstimulated PBMC. This effect was time-dependent and directly related to the number of PBMC. HLA-DR expression was also induced in a time- and dose-dependent manner by addition of supernatant from stimulated PBMC (SS) or by addition of recombinant INF-γ but not by addition of interleukin (IL)-1 or IL-2. Induction by either SS or INF-γ was blocked by an antiserum to INF-γ. As determined by a semiquantitative immunoprecipitation technique, HLA-DR synthesis by HK was directly related to INF-γ concentration. The pattern of HLA-DR peptides produced by HK was similar to that of monocytes, but the relative quantity synthesized was far less than that of monocytes.
Adhesive polyvinyl chloride coatings for quantitative strain measurement in composite materials

Abstract A non-contact method is proposed to measure the strains on the surface of carbon fiber/epoxy composite materials using adhesive polyvinyl chloride (commonly called vinyl) coatings. Specimen preparation in digital image correlation methods yields inconsistent results due to the variability in the patterning procedure. The utility of this approach is the ability to apply computer generated randomized patterns on vinyl sheets that can be mechanically applied to the composite structure under inspection. Experimentally obtained strain values are compared to p-version finite element simulations of notched coupons showing a disparity in the correlation highly dependent on the properties of the constituents.
Pichinde Virus Infection in Strain 13 Guinea Pigs Reduces Intestinal Protein Reflection Coefficient with Compensation

Pichinde virus inoculation into strain 13 guinea pigs is a model with features reputed to be similar to hemorrhagic fever in humans. Although the infection is lethal by day 13-19, guinea pigs of approximately 600 g do not show edema or effusions. This raises the questions of whether capillary damage is present in such infected animals and, if it is, why edema is absent. The effects of Pichinide virus on protein transport across jejunal capillaries were examined in 38 normal and 7 infected strain 13 guinea pigs 12 days after inoculation. The latter lost 20.3% body weight but maintained normal blood pressure, serum protein concentration, and jejunal lymph flow. However, their protein solvent drag reflection coefficient (sigma) was reduced to .52 +/- .03 (mean +/- SE) from .73 +/- .02 (2P less than .001), while permeability-surface area product was not changed. In the absence of gross edema or effusions, Pichinde virus-infected guinea pigs demonstrated a leaky gut capillary wall to protein compatible with an increase in pore size or large pore number less than sufficient to change permeability-surface area product. Compensatory mechanisms that prevent edema at this stage are efficient and may include reduced capillary pressure or some degree of capillary flow stasis.
The origin of skeletal structures during intercalary regeneration of larval Ambystoma limbs.

Urodele limbs are able to regulate for intercalary deletions created when distal regeneration blastemas are grafted to a more proximal level. Using several morphological markers, pigmentation differences between white and dark axolotls, and the difference in nucleolar number between diploid and triploid animals, we show that the entire intercalary regenerate is derived from the stump when wrist or tarsus blastemas are grafted to the midstylopodium of the fore- or hindlimb. The transplanted prospective autopodium forms no more than would be expected in situ. Thus, the rule of distal transformation is not violated during intercalary regeneration in salamanders. The advantages and disadvantages of the several marking techniques are discussed.
Treating Psychological Trauma in First Responders: A Multi-Modal Paradigm

Responding to critical incidents may result in 5.9–22 % of first responders developing psychological trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder. These impacts may be physical, mental, and/or behavioral. This population remains at risk, given the daily occurrence of critical incidents. Current treatments, primarily focused on combat and rape victims, have included single and double interventions, which have proven helpful to some but not all victims and one standard of care has remained elusive. However, even though the need is established, research on the treatment interventions of first responders has been limited. Given the multiplicity of impacts from psychological trauma and the inadequacies of responder treatment intervention research thus far, this paper proposes a paradigmatic shift from single/double treatment interventions to a multi-modal approach to first responder victim needs. A conceptual framework based on psychological trauma is presented and possible multi-modal interventions selected from the limited, extant first responder research are utilized to illustrate how the approach would work and to encourage clinical and experimental research into first responder treatment needs.
Caution indices based on item response theory

A new family of indices was introduced earlier as a link between two approaches: One based on item response theory and the other on sample statistics. In this study, the statistical properties of these indices are investigated and then the relationships to Guttman Scales, and to item and person response curves are discussed. Further, these indices are standardized, and an example of their potential usefulness for diagnosing students' misconceptions is shown.
Planar electro-optofluidic chip: Integration of nanopore with optofluidics

We present the integration of two ultra-sensitive technologies - ARROW waveguides and solidstate nanopore - in a planar electro-optofluidic platform. The functionality of the chip is demonstrated using concurrent electrical and optical detection of fluorescent nanospheres.
LONG‐TERM CHANGES IN A RESERVOIR FISH ASSEMBLAGE: STABILITY IN AN UNPREDICTABLE ENVIRONMENT

Long-term monitoring of reservoir fish assemblages can provide insight into the development, community structure, and stability of economically important fisheries. A sentinel-site approach was used to assess changes in the offshore fish assemblage of a 36 000-ha impoundment (Lake Texoma) across 43 years. Fishes were sampled intensively year-round using gill nets in 1954, 1981-1984, and 1996-1997. Assemblage structure, overall, was relatively stable across years as indicated by persistence of species, significant concordance in rank abundance, relatively low cv of species abundances among years, and overlapping sample scores in multivariate space. However, some individual species varied in abundance across decades. Stepwise discriminant analysis revealed six species that could be used to discriminate collections among decades. A more detailed evaluation of changes in the fish assemblage between the 1980s and the 1990s that included size-structure and species associations showed little variation between decades. However, two species, small- mouth buffalo (Ictiobus bubalus) <400 mm in length and striped bass (Morone saxatilis) <250 mm in length were in greater abundance in the 1990s. Based on this and previous studies, the fish assemblage in Lake Texoma appears to be relatively stable. There is evidence to suggest that populations of introduced species are more susceptible to abiotic disturbances than are native riverine fishes.
Syntheses, crystallographic/computational characterizations, and reactions of the first 10-vertex arachno- and nido-phosphamonocarbaboranes.

A synthetic sequence involving the initial reaction of a substituted phosphorus dihalide (RPCl2, R = CH3, C6H5) with the arachno-CB8H13- (1-) monoanion followed by an in situ dehydrohalogenation reaction initiated by Proton Sponge, resulted in phosphorus cage insertion to yield the first 10-vertex arachno- and nido-phosphamonocarbaboranes, exo-6-R-arachno-6,7-PCB8H12 (2a, 2b) and PSH+6-R-nido-6,9-PCB8H9- (PSH+3a-, PSH+3b-) (R = C6H5 (a), CH3 (b)). Alternatively, 2a and 2b were synthesized in high yield as the sole product of the reaction of the arachno-4-CB8H122- (12-) dianion with RPCl2. Crystallographic determinations of PSH+3a- and PSH+3b- in conjunction with DFT/GIAO computational studies of the anions have confirmed the expected nido cage framework based on an octadecahedron missing the six-coordinate vertex. DFT/GIAO computational studies have also shown that while the gross cage geometries of the exo-6-R-arachno-6,7-PCB8H12 compounds 2a and 2b resemble the known isoelectronic arachno-6,9-SCB8H12, t...
Effects of catecholamine depletion with AMPT (alpha-methyl-para-tyrosine) in obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Abstract Background: Several lines of evidence suggest that brain dopamine function may contribute to some obsessive-compulsive (OC) phenomena. The effects of catecholamine depletion were examined in drug-free patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Methods: The tyrosine hydroxylase inhibitor alpha- methyl-para-tyrosine (AMPT) and diphenhydramine hydrochloride (placebo) were administered for three consecutive days, one week apart, to 6 drug-free adult OCD patients without a personal or family history of chronic tics, in a double-blind, randomized design. The effects of AMPT and placebo on OC, depression, anxiety and global clinical symptoms were assessed. Results: AMPT produced no clinically or statistically significant change in any behavioral ratings, including OC symptom severity, compared with placebo. Conclusions: Acute reduction of catecholamine levels does not seem to affect OC symptoms in drug-free patients with OCD. Studies of catecholamine depletion with AMPT in patients with comorbid OCD and chronic tics may be of considerable neurobiological and clinical interest.
Evaluation of chest pain suspicious for acute coronary syndrome : Use of an accelerated diagnostic protocol in a chest pain evaluation unit

Management of patients presenting to the emergency department with chest pain suggestive of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains a continuing challenge. A low threshold for admission has been traditional because of concern for patient welfare and the litigation potential associated with the inadvertent discharge of patients with ischemic events. Because of this approach, <30% of patients admitted for chest pain ultimately are found to have an acute coronary syndrome. To reduce unnecessary admissions, maintain patient safety, and enhance cost-effectiveness, innovative strategies have been applied to the management of patients with chest pain. It is now recognized that a low-risk group can be identified by the clinical presentation and initial electrocardiogram. Chest-pain centers have been developed to provide further risk stratification and systematic management of these patients. We employ an accelerated diagnostic protocol based on immediate exercise treadmill testing to evaluate low-risk patients. Moderate-risk patients are assessed over a 6-hour observation period with serial electrocardiograms and evaluation of cardiac-injury markers. Patients with positive evaluations are admitted. Those with negative results undergo either exercise echocardiography or rest myocardial perfusion imaging utilizing technetium-99m sestamibi. Patients with positive functional tests are admitted. Those with negative studies are discharged with outpatient follow-up. These strategies have provided a safe and accurate means of patient disposition from the emergency department with the potential for vital cost savings.
Distribution of vehicular loads on bridge girders by the FEA using ADINA: modeling, simulation, and comparison

Abstract This paper discusses how a general finite element (FE) code, such as ADINA, can be used to effectively and efficiently model the bridge superstructure system subjected to moving traffic loads and further to predict the accurate lateral distribution of such live loads on bridge longitudinal girders. An input generator suited for the ADINA Program was developed to facilitate the preparation of the tedious FE data as required, especially the varying movable loads. FE modeling techniques and features using the family of ADINA programs are presented and discussed in detail. Live-load distribution factors derived from the FE method are compared with those obtained by the other methods. Advantages of the FE method are also highlighted.
Maternal alcohol abuse and neonatal infection.

Background: Since chronic alcohol use suppresses the adult immune system, we tested the hypothesis that maternal alcohol ingestion increases the risk of infection in term newborns. Methods: Analysis of a large case-control study of birth weight for gestational age was performed focusing on maternal alcohol ingestion and the development of infection in term newborns ≥36 weeks gestation. After delivery, mothers were asked about alcohol and tobacco use in the 3 months prior to conception, the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd trimester of pregnancy. Results: Eight hundred and seventy-two singleton newborns (872) ≥ 36 weeks gestation were identified for analysis. A total of 51 (5.8%) had newborn infections. Gestational age, sex, and small for gestational age (SGA) were similar in the newborns with and without infection (p= NS). Infants whose mothers reported alcohol use, excessive drinking or smoking in pregnancy were more likely to have a newborn diagnosed with an infection than were mothers who reported abstaining from alcohol or cigarettes (p < 0.05). When controlling for race and smoking, SGA infants whose mothers used any alcohol had a 2.5-fold increase risk of infection, while excessive alcohol use increased the risk 3–4-fold. In a multivariable logistic regression analysis controlling for low maternal income, smoking, and SGA, excessive alcohol use during the 2nd trimester increased the risk of newborn infection (OR 3.7 1.1,12.8, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Excessive maternal alcohol use is associated with an increased risk of newborn infection in this patient sample. Increased awareness and further clinical investigations are warranted to address the detrimental effects of fetal alcohol exposure on the developing immune system.
The Evolving Role of Women as Rangeland Educators and Researchers in Colleges and Universities and in the Society for Range Management

On the Ground In the last 30 years, women have increased in SRM membership percentage, which appears to have paralleled the number of women hired into academic positions and women entering the discipline. Although the history of women as SRM members and rangeland educators is relatively short, the increase seems to reflect that of related disciplines. Gender demographic changes have increased diversity within the SRM and many academic institutions, enhancing what each offers. Disproportionately fewer women receiving recognition and advancing to leadership positions within SRM or higher ranks within academia may reflect opportunities for the range profession to address.
A study of tracing overhead on a high-performance linux cluster

Our goal in this work was to identify and quantify the overheads of tracing parallel applications. We investigate several different sources of overhead related to tracing: trace instrumentation, periodic writing of trace files to disk, differing trace buffer sizes, system changes, and increasing numbers of processors in the target application. We encountered overheads as large as 26.7% for writing the trace file to disk. We found that buffer sizes can make a difference in the overheads, and that differences in system software can also contribute to the level of the perturbation. Our results show that the overhead of instrumentation correlates strongly with the number of events, while the overhead of writing the trace buffer increases with increasing numbers of processors.
Cell biology: thanks for the memory.

In response to a transient hormonal cue, a developing egg commits irreversibly to a mature state. Surprisingly, this irreversible switch is composed of intrinsically reversible components.
THE MUTAGENIC EFFECTS OF GAMMA RAYS ON ZEA MAYS IN RELATION TO EAR LOCATION.

Abstract The effects of γ-radiation on maize seeds were examined in a highly prolific line in relation to ear location and dose. Exposures were 0, 5000, 10,000 and 15,000 R. Mutation rates were related to ear position and the dose. Mutation rates differed significantly from one side of the plant to the other. The top ear on the side in the control, the 5000 and the 10,000 R treatments had the highest mutation rates. The reverse was observed for the 15,000 R exposure. This decrease was probably related to a decrease in the number of seeds which may not have permitted as many mutants to be recovered.
Beyond the “Halfway Covenant”: Church Membership, Extended Baptism, and Outreach in Cambridge, Massachusetts, 1656–1667

Jonathan Mitchel, minister of the Cambridge Church (1656–67), used the extension and liberalization of baptism in the 1650s and 60s–later denigrated as the halfway covenant–to bring the unchurched and their children into fellowship, thus indicating a strategy of reaching out to the community, not of appeasing a lapsing or fastidious second generation.
Regulation of Ca2+-signaling in cardiac myofilaments

The contraction and relaxation of heart muscle cells is associated with a transient change in the intracellular level of free Ca2+. This transient reflects a release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum of Ca2+ ions that turn on the reaction of myosin cross-bridges of the thick filaments with actin of the thin filaments. Without this transient no contraction occurs. The first part of this paper is concerned with the molecular processes by which Ca2+ signals the actin-myosin reaction. It will show that the activation in reality involves release of the thin filaments from a prevailing inhibited state. The inhibited state depends on the activity of the troponin (TN) complex and tropomyosin (TM); disinhibition requires Ca(2+)-binding to TN. The second part of the paper describes evidence that the signaling process is itself modulated by the mechanical and chemical state of the myofilaments in the short term and by altered gene expression in the long term.
An inter-gender effect on ethanol drinking in rats: proximal females increase ethanol drinking in males.

Abstract Three groups of male Long–Evans hooded rats were assessed for effects of social opportunity on drinking of ethanol or water. The ethanol/female group received intermittent presentations of a sipper containing ethanol that was followed by 15 s of social interaction opportunity with a female rat. The ethanol/male group received similar training except the social interaction opportunity was with a male rat. The water/female group received training similar to the ethanol/female group except that the sipper contained water. For the ethanol groups, the concentration of ethanol [3%, 4%, 6%, 8% and 10% (vol/vol)] in the sipper was increased across sessions. With 10% ethanol in the sipper, social opportunity with females induced more drinking and ethanol intake than did social opportunity with males. Social opportunity with females induced more intake of ethanol than water. Post-session plasma samples revealed social opportunity with females induced higher corticosterone and testosterone levels than did social opportunity with males, irrespective of the sipper fluid. This study documents, for the first time, an inter-gender effect on ethanol drinking in rats.
Cholecystokinin receptor antagonism by peptidergic and non-peptidergic agents in rat pancreas.

1. Graded doses of bombesin infused I.V. into conscious rats with chronic pancreatic fistulae induced a dose-dependent stimulation of protein secretion, similar to that obtained with caerulein. This stimulation does not appear to be mediated by cholecystokinin (CCK) receptors because peptidergic (CR-1409) and non-peptidergic (L-364718) CCK antagonists failed to affect protein secretion at a dose range which caused almost complete suppression of caerulein-induced pancreatic secretion. 2. Studies in vitro on isolated rat pancreatic acini revealed that caerulein, pentagastrin and bombesin all showed the same efficacy in their ability to stimulate amylase release. In contrast, CCK antagonists competitively inhibited amylase release induced by caerulein and pentagastrin but not by bombesin or urecholine, indicating that the latter two agents act directly on acinar cells via receptors which are separate from those involved in stimulation induced by caerulein and pentagastrin. 3. DNA synthesis, measured by the incorporation of [3H]thymidine into DNA, was significantly stimulated by caerulein, soybean trypsin inhibitor (FOY 305), pentagastrin and by bombesin in a dose-dependent manner. CCK receptor antagonists prevented stimulation of DNA synthesis induced by caerulein, FOY 305 and pentagastrin but not by bombesin. 4. This study indicates that bombesin strongly stimulates pancreatic enzyme secretion, with an efficacy similar to that of caerulein, and also exerts a potent growth-promoting action on the pancreas, both effects appearing to be mediated by mechanisms independent of the CCK receptors.
Comparing Circulation Rates of Monographs and Anthologies of Literary Criticism: Implications for Cooperative Collection Development

This study compares the circulation rates of recently published monographs and anthologies of literary criticism at libraries at five liberal arts colleges in Ohio. The analysis shows that anthologies tend to circulate at a much higher rate than monographs. Applying these findings to the cooperative development of shared collections, these findings suggest that literary criticism anthologies may merit a greater number of duplicate copies than do monographs in the same subject area in a shared college library system. This subject-specific study may serve as a model for further studies aimed at developing more nuanced duplication guidelines for shared collections.
On models of growth and photosynthesis in phytoplankton

Abstract A model of the growth of a marine diatom ( Sakshaug et al., 1989, Limnology and Oceanography, 34, 198–205) is examined. One equation describes the relationship between chemical composition and growth rate as a function of irradiance and daylength. It is valid for both nutrient-limited and nutrient-saturated growth. The model equation is rearranged to describe photosynthesis normalized to chlorophyll. The new equation is essentially the same as several other models. Its mechanistic basis is the variation of quantum yield as a function of the number of excess photons absorbed by a photosynthetic unit during the time it takes to process one photon. The mechanistic interpretation of the model could be deceptive because the general equation describes a composite response and does not represent any one growth state. Nonetheless, the reformulated equation is important because it shows that at a given temperature, the adapted rate of photosynthesis normalized to chlorophyll is a function solely of growth irradiance. The equation can be used to describe primary production in the sea as a function of insolation and chlorophyll in the water column. For comparison, the model of Ryther and Yentsch (1957, Limnology and Oceanography, 2, 281–286) is modified and found to fit obsercations as well or better than other formulations. Some date sets are not at all consistent with general models, however. Discrepancies may be due to taxonomic differences, temperature and vertical structure of phytoplankton biomass. It is also possible that changes in the photoynthesis-irradiance relationship associated with unbalanced growth are extremely important in determining primary production in perturbed environments.
Group selection models with population substructure based on social interaction networks

Most models of evolution by group selection assume that groups have discrete boundaries with homogeneous levels of interaction within groups and no interaction between groups. While this assumption is analytically useful, it is not an accurate description of groups in nature. We use a generalization of D.S. Wilson's (Am. Nat. 111:157–185, 1977; The Natural Selection of Populations and Communities. Reading, Mass.: Benjamin/Cummings, 1980) concept of trait-groups, in which groups are defined as sets of interacting individuals, to estimate the average degree of relatedness among groomers and groomees, referred to here as grooming-groups. The average degree of relatedness is an important parameter in models of both kin and group selection. Data on grooming among 52 female rhesus macaques drawn from Group F on Cayo Santiago were used to represent the pattern and intensity of affiliative interactions. Degrees of relatedness among individuals and transferrin phenotypes were obtained from demographic and genetic records on the colony. The average degree of relatedness within grooming-groups was estimated directly by calculating the average degree of relatedness among interactants (groomers and groomees), weighted by their frequency of interaction. Average degrees of relatedness among interactants were also estimated from the subjective frequency of the transferrin C allele. Our analysis indicates that the average degree of relatedness within grooming-groups is 0.316 when estimated directly and 0.347 when estimated from the subjective frequency of the transferrin C allele. These values are much higher than are usually considered for group selection in primate societies and indicate the relative ease with which altruism may evolve given primate social structures.
Understanding ecosystem robustness

Understanding the properties of ecosystems that make them either vulnerable or resistant to species extinctions is vital in the context of rapidly increasing habitat modification and climatic warming. New research by Sinha et al . incorporating ‘small-world' topologies and population dynamics into ecosystem network models provides new explanations for species link distributions, extinction events and the maintenance of biodiversity. Their work reveals that previously unconnected ecosystems that come into contact with each other by anthropogenic or natural means are vulnerable to large losses in species.
Teachers' Use of Homework in High Schools.

AbstractIn this article, we presented information on homework use from the perspective of 3,000 teachers in 92 high schools in Illinois. We provided data on the amount and frequency of homework. More important, however, we went beyond issues of time. We assessed the structure of homework in high schools. We examined the purposes for which homework is given and the types of work in which students are asked to engage. We also assessed the level of school and parental support for homework assigned by individual teachers.
An autoradiographic study of the efferent connections of the superior colliculus in the cat

The differential projections of the three main cellular strata of the superior colliculus have been examined in the cat by the autoradiographic method. The stratum griseum superficiale projects caudally to the parabigeminal nucleus and rostrally to several known visual centers: the nucleus of the optic tract and the olivary pretectal nucleus in the pretectum; the deepest C laminae of the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus; the large-celled part of the ventral lateral geniculate nucleus; the posteromedial, large-celled part of the lateral posterior nucleus of the thalamus. Several of these projections are topographically organized. The stratum griseum profundum gives rise to most of the descending projections of the superior colliculus. Ipsilateral projections pass to both the dorsolateral and lateral divisions of the pontine nuclei, the cuneiform nucleus, and the raphe nuclei, and to extensive parts of the brainstem reticular formation: the tegmental reticular nucleus, and the paralemniscal, lateral, magnocellular, and gigantocellular tegmental fields. Contralateral projections descending in the predorsal bundle pass to the medial parts of the tegmental reticular nucleus and of some of the tegmental fields, the dorsal part of the medial accessory nucleus of the inferior olivary complex, and to the ventral horn of the cervical spinal cord. Ascending projections of the stratum griseum profundum terminate in several nuclei of the pretectum, the magnocellular nucleus of the medial geniculate complex and several intralaminar nuclei of the thalamus, and in the fields of Forel and zona incerta in the subthalamus. The strata grisea profundum and intermediale each have projections to homotopic areas of the contralateral superior colliculus, to the pretectum, and to the central lateral and suprageniculate nuclei of the thalamus. However, the stratum griseum intermediale has few or no descending projections.
Religion of the Common People in Mesopotamia

The purpose of ‘Religion of the common people in Mesopotamia’ is to examine the religion of the ordinary people. Discovering this information has been difficult task as most written sources and archeological finds explain the official religion of kings, priest and priestesses, and wealthy individuals. This article has tried to trace personal religion for the common man from the development of the pantheon, the importance of myths, prayers, omens and the use of various forms of magic. This information helps us understand the ways in which the average man worshiped his gods, and, perhaps, entered the temples he helped build.
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Derived Pulmonary Artery Distensibility Index Correlates With Pulmonary Artery Stiffness and Predicts Functional Capacity in Patients With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Background: Increased stiffness of the pulmonary vascular bed is known to increase mortality in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH); and pulmonary artery (PA) stiffness is also thought to be associated with exercise capacity. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI)-derived PA distensibility index correlates with PA stiffness estimated on right heart catheterization (RHC) and predicts functional capacity (FC) in patients with PAH. Methods and Results: Thirty-five consecutive PAH patients (23% male, mean age, 44±13 years; 69% idiopathic) underwent CMRI, RHC, and 6-min walk test (6MWT). PA distensibility indices were derived from cross-sectional area change (%) in the transverse view, perpendicular to the axis of the main PA, on CMRI [(maximum area-minimum area)/minimum area during cardiac cycle]. Among the PA stiffness indices, pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) and PA capacitance were calculated using hemodynamic dataset from RHC. CMRI-derived PA distensibility was inversely correlated with PVR (R2=0.34, P<0.001) and directly correlated with PA capacitance (R2=0.35, P<0.001), and the distance in the 6MWT (R2=0.61, P<0.001). Furthermore, PA distensibility <20% predicted poor FC (<400m in 6MWT) with a sensitivity of 82% and a specificity of 94%. Conclusions: Non-invasive CMRI-derived PA distensibility index correlates with PA stiffness and can predict FC in patients with PAH. (Circ J 2011; 75: 2244-2251)
Parametric fault identification and dynamic compensation techniques for cellular neural network hardware

Testing strategies to quantify parametric faults in a fully programmable, two-dimensional cellular neural network (CNN) are presented. The approach is intended to quantify system offsets, time constant mismatches, nonlinearities in the multipliers and state nodes, and the magnitude of the dynamic range of operation which can lead to misconvergence in the CNN array. For some cases, the authors present dynamic solutions by compensating the templates, the input data, and/or the initial condition values to minimise or cancel the undesired effects. The proposed dynamic compensation techniques can be applied to any CNN independent of the array size or topology. To demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed techniques, the authors examine their application to an actual complex VLSI CNN implementation.
Tracheobronchomalacia in Adults

Severe, diffuse tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) is an underrecognized cause of dyspnea, recurrent respiratory infections, cough, secretion retention, and even respiratory insufficiency. Patients often have comorbidities, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and inappropriate treatment for these conditions may precede eventual recognition of TBM by months or years. Most of these patients have an acquired form of TBM in which the etiology in unknown. Diagnosis of TBM is made by airway computed tomography scan and flexible bronchoscopy with forced expiration. The prevailing definition of TBM as a 50% reduction in cross-sectional area is nonspecific, with a high proportion of healthy volunteers meeting this threshold. The clinically significant threshold is complete or near-complete collapse of the airway. Airway stenting may treat TBM, although complications resulting from indwelling prostheses often limit the durability of stents. Surgical stabilization of the airway by posterior splinting (tracheobronchoplasty) effectively and permanently corrects malacic airways. Proper surgical selection is facilitated by a short-term stent trial.
Colocalization of GluR1 and neuronal nitric oxide synthase in rat nucleus tractus solitarii neurons.

Abstract Previously we demonstrated that glutamate and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) containing neuronal elements are frequently apposed in subnuclei of the rat nucleus tractus solitarii. It is known that glutamate receptors (GluRs) of the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate (AMPA) subtype participate in cardiovascular regulation by the nucleus tractus solitarii and that responses to AMPA receptor activation may be linked to NO. Therefore, in the present study, we further tested the hypothesis that the calcium-permeable subunit GluR1 of AMPA type GluRs and nNOS are colocalized in neurons of the nucleus tractus solitarii. Distribution of GluR1 and nNOS in rat nucleus tractus solitarii was investigated by double fluorescent immunohistochemistry combined with confocal laser scanning microscopy. Numerous GluR1 immunoreactive cells and fibers were present in subnuclei of the nucleus tractus solitarii. The staining intensity of GluR1 immunoreactive cells varied among subnuclei. Cells in the interstitial subnucleus contained the highest GluR1 staining intensity. A moderate intensity of staining was present in the intermediate, dorsolateral, ventral, and commissural subnuclei. A slightly lower level of GluR1 immunoreactivity was present in cells of the medial subnucleus. Cells in the central subnucleus contained a low level of GluR1 immunoreactivity. The staining intensity of GluR1 immunoreactive fibers also varied among subnuclei. Distribution of nNOS immunoreactivity in the nucleus tractus solitarii and other brain stem areas was the same as in our earlier reports. Superimposition of confocal images of nNOS immunoreactivity and GluR1 immunoreactivity allowed us to identify double-labeled structures. Nearly all neurons that were immunoreactive for nNOS contained GluR1 immunoreactivity, but only a proportion of GluR1 immunoreactive cells contained nNOS immunoreactivity. Double-labeled neurons were present in all subnuclei of the nucleus tractus solitarii. The percentages of GluR1 immunoreactive cells that also contained nNOS immunoreactivity differed among subnuclei of the nucleus tractus solitarii. Fibers that labeled for nNOS alone, GluR1 alone or both were present among labeled cells in these subnuclei. These data support the hypothesis that GluR1 and nNOS are colocalized in neurons of nucleus tractus solitarii. The demonstration of this anatomical relationship provides further anatomical support for the hypothesis that activation of AMPA receptors on neurons that synthesize NO in the nucleus tractus solitarii contributes to autonomic regulation.
Nasal Polyps: Pathogenesis and Treatment Implications

Nasal polyps (NPs) represent a common clinical end point for a myriad of inflammatory disease processes involving the paranasal sinuses. Chronic rhinosinusitis is the most common cause for NPs, but not all NPs are created equally. This article outlines the current understanding of pathogenesis in nasal polyposis and discusses the implications on therapy.
Supernova remnants in M31

We have used Hα + [N II] and [S II] interference filter photography to identify nebulosities which we believe to be supernova remnants in M31. Spectrophotometry has been used to confirm this identification for 12 of the candidates. Since all the remnants are at the same distance, they can be directly compared. Using the measured diameter and an estimate of the pressure in the optical filaments, an initial energy for each remnant has been calculated. However, this energy appears to be correlated to the remnant’s diameter, an effect which may be related to magnetic pressure in the filaments.
EFFECTS OF DILUTION DURING CROSSLINKING ON STRAIN-INDUCED CRYSTALLIZATION IN CIS -1,4-POLYISOPRENE NETWORKS. I. EXPERIMENTAL RESULTS

Preparing an elastomer by crosslinking polymer chains in solution and then drying the resulting network should have at least two major effects. Specifically, there should be fewer entanglements, and the drying part of the process should compress the chains into a “supercontracted” state. The former effect would be expected to increase crystallization and the latter to reduce it. The present study was conducted to investigate these opposing effects on strain-induced crystallization in cis-1,4-polyisoprene chains that had been crosslinked by peroxide thermolysis in decalin solutions, and subsequently dried. The initiation of crystallization was taken to be the elongation at which an upturn in the modulus became discernible. Higher elongations were required for the networks prepared at higher dilutions, suggesting that with regard to strain-induced crystallization, the compressed states of the chains is more important then their reduced entangling. It is likely that quantitative comparisons are complicated b...
Response to the threat of communism: The sane democracy league and the people's union of new south Wales

(1977). Response to the threat of communism: The sane democracy league and the people's union of new south Wales. Journal of Australian Studies: Vol. 1, No. 1, pp. 70-83.