cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Central β1-adrenergic receptors are involved in CRF-induced defensive withdrawal

Previous studies indicated that peripheral administration of propranolol, a nonselective β-adrenergic antagonist, attenuated ICV CRF-induced suppression of a conditioned emotional response and defensive withdrawal behavior in rats, suggesting the involvement of a β-adrenergic receptor in the CRF-induced behavioral changes. The present study was carried out to determine whether central or peripheral β-adrenergic receptors are involved in CRF-induced defensive withdrawal behavior, and which subtype of β-adrenergic receptor is involved. l-Propranolol (2.5 mg/kg IP) significantly reversed CRF-induced defensive withdrawal behavior. CGP-12177 (1 mg/kg IP), a β-adrenergic antagonist with predominant effects on peripheral β-adrenergic receptors, and ICI 118,551 (0.5 mg/kg IP), a selective β2-adrenergic antagonist, had no significant effects on CRF-induced defensive withdrawal. When administered ICV, two selective β1-adrenergic antagonists, CGP-20712A (10 μg) and atenolol (100 μg), significantly antagonized CRF-induced defensive withdrawal. Our results suggest that a central β1-adrenergic receptor is involved in CRF-induced defensive withdrawal in rats.
Comparison of spiral and electron beam tomography in the evaluation of coronary calcification in asymptomatic persons

Abstract Recently, investigators have begun evaluating the ability of spiral computed tomography (sequence scan mode–SEQ) to measure coronary calcium. Electron Beam Tomography (EBT) and SEQ studies were performed in 10 women and 23 men, with a mean age of 54±9 years. The EBT study was performed within 4 weeks (mean 11±4 days) of the SEQ with no clinical interval event (MI, revascularization). The mean EBT calcium score (Agatston method) was 52.1±58.6, with a range of 0 to 175. The SEQ mean score was 60.1±71.1 (range 0 to 253). There were 7 persons with scores of 0 on both scans, and 9 persons with scores of zero on either EBT or spiral CT, but not both. Three persons had negative EBT studies where SEQ detected calcium, and 6 persons had EBT detected calcium and negative SEQ studies. The six patients with negative SEQ and positive EBT studies had a mean score of 47±25.7 (range 9 to 99). The remaining sixteen persons had coronary calcium detected on both studies. As compared to EBT, spiral CT had a sensitivity of 74% and a specificity of 70%, for an overall diagnostic accuracy of 73%. The positive and negative predictive values were 85 and 54%, respectively for SEQ in this study. The absolute difference in scores between the two tests was 29.1±28.5 (mean±S.D.). The inter-test variability, defined as the mean values of the differences between the calcium scores in the two scans on the same subjects divided by the mean of the two scores (Absolute Difference between tests/mean), was 84.5% in this study. In asymptomatic persons, spiral CT (using SEQ) provides a limited sensitivity (74%) and specificity (70%) for coronary calcium when compared to EBT. Caution should be used when evaluating the results of spiral CT coronary calcium especially in patients with relatively low calcium scores (
A speculative bubble in commodity futures prices? Cross-sectional evidence

Recent accusations against speculators in general and long-only commodity index funds in particular include: increasing market volatility, distorting historical price relationships, and fueling a rapid increase and decrease in the level of commodity prices. Some researchers have argued that these market participants—through their impact on market prices—may have inadvertently prevented the efficient distribution of food aid to deserving groups. Certainly, this result—if substantiated—would counter the classical argument that speculators make prices more efficient and thus improve the economic efficiency of the food marketing system. Given the very important policy implications, it is crucial to develop a more thorough understanding of long-only index funds and their potential market impact. Here, we review the criticisms (and rebuttals) levied against (and for) commodity index funds in recent U.S. Congressional testimonies. Then, additional empirical evidence is added regarding cross-sectional market returns and the relative levels of long-only index fund participation in 12 commodity futures markets. The empirical results provide scant evidence that long-only index funds impact returns across commodity futures markets.
Forecasting money demand with Jorgenson's Lag and Tobin's q

Abstract The poor forecasting record of time-series money-demand equations is generally attributable to shifts in public behavior, to the omission of important arguments, and to the inadequate specification of the functional form of the relationship. This paper explores the latter two problems by deriving the demand function from Tobin's model of asset markets, by incorporating Tobin's “ q ” as an argument, and by basing the adjustment process on Jorgenson's rational distributed-lag model. These modifications produce reasonably stable equations that forecast well throughout the 1970s.
Enhanced sensitivity for biosensors: multiple functions of DNA-wrapped single-walled carbon nanotubes in self-doped polyaniline nanocomposites.

A nanocomposite of poly(anilineboronic acid), a self-doped polyaniline, with ss-DNA-wrapped single-walled carbon nanotubes (ss-DNA/SWNTs) was fabricated on a gold electrode by in situ electrochemical polymerization of 3-aminophenylboronic acid monomers in the presence of ssDNA/SWNTs. We used this nanocomposite to detect nanomolar concentrations of dopamine and found that the sensitivity increased 4 orders of magnitude compared to the detection at an electrode modified with only poly(anilineboronic acid). For the first time, this work reports the multiple functions of the ss-DNA/SWNTs in the fabrication and biosensor application of a self-doped polyaniline/ss-DNA/SWNT nanocomposite. First, the ss-DNA/SWNTs acted as effective molecular templates during polymerization of self-doped polyaniline so that not only was the polymerization speed increased but also the quality of the polymer was greatly improved. Second, they functioned as novel active stabilizers after the polymerization, significantly enhancing th...
Neurologic symptoms mistaken for gastrointestinal disease.

I report 25 inpatients who were mistakenly considered to have a gastrointestinal disorder before correct neurologic diagnosis. All were personally examined on the neurology and neurosurgery wards of the Los Angeles County/University of Southern California Medical Center during the past 23 years. Results. Of the 25 patients, 16 were males. Their ages ranged from 2 to 76 years. Thirteen patients were misdiagnosed at other hospitals, 9 at my own institution, and 3 at both. At my hospital, patients were initially cared for by the Departments of Medicine (8), Emergency Medicine (2), Surgery(1), and Pediatrics (1). Principal gastrointestinal symptoms consisted of vomiting in 19 patients, dysphagia in 4, and abdominal pain in 2 (table). Initial diagnoses were gastritis and gastroenteritis (12), gastric outlet obstruction(3), duodenal ulcer (3), dysphagia (3), acute food poisoning/botulism (2), abdominal pain (2), gastric ulcer (1), hematemesis (1), and cholecystitis(1). (Some patients had more than one diagnosis.) Information from other hospitals is incomplete, but known gastrointestinal studies included contrast radiography in three patients (four studies) and endoscopy in six. Two patients had unnecessary …
Reconfigurable computing: what, why, and implications for design automation

Reconfigurable computing is emerging as an important new organizational structure for implementing computations. It combines the post-fabrication programmability of processors with the spatial computational style most commonly employed in hardware designs. The result changes traditional "hardware" and "software" boundaries, providing an opportunity for greater computational capacity and density within a programmable media. Reconfigurable computing must leverage traditional CAD technology for building spatial designs. Beyond that, however, reprogrammability introduces new challenges and opportunities for automation, including binding-time and specialization optimizations, regularity extraction and exploitation, and temporal partitioning and scheduling.
A social dilemma analysis on supplier's involvement in new product development in China

Many studies have been conducted to explore the relationship between supplier and manufacturer in new product development. Reviewing the literature, however, it is found that the examination of supplier firms in the relationship is relatively ignored. The aim of this study is to analyze supplier firms when they are involved in manufacturers' new product development based on social dilemma theory. Based on the social dilemma theory, this study proposes three solutions to the supplier involvement: informational sharing, flexibility, and relationship structure. The model is tested using data collected from Chinese supplier firms. The results suggest that informational sharing and relationship structure are important solutions to the supplier's involvement. Flexibility does not influence supplier firm's involvement. Practical implications for managers are discussed.
Perceived importance of precision farming technologies in improving phosphorus and potassium efficiency in cotton production

Site-specific information technologies (IT) provide knowledge about the spatial variability within a field to improve the efficiency of inputs through variable-rate (VR) applications. Identifying factors that influence farmers’ perceptions of the importance of precision farming (PF) technologies in improving the efficiency of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) fertilizer applications can help to determine why different groups of farmers adopt PF. Knowing these factors can be useful in targeting specific groups of farmers to adopt PF and increase fertilizer efficiency to meet crop needs and reduce P and K losses to the environment. Data were obtained from a 2001 mail survey of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) farmers in six southeastern states in the United States of America. Ordered logit analysis was used to evaluate the level of importance to those who had adopted PF technologies placed on such technologies they had used to improve the efficiency of P and K applications. Results showed that such farmers found soil sampling by management zone or on a grid, and on-the-go sensing most important. Precision farmers who used mapping and remote sensing found PF technologies least important. Older precision farmers who rented larger proportions of their land and used computers for farm management were more likely than other precision farmers to place greater importance on PF technologies in improving the efficiency of P and K applications.
Children Exposed to Community Violence: The Rationale for Early Intervention

Children are exposed to violence in their homes and communities at extraordinarily high rates. Given the alarming rates of exposure and its known impact on child developmental outcomes, crisis intervention geared at interrupting the negative effects of violence exposure are increasingly important. This review provides a rationale for the implementation of early and crisis intervention strategies for children exposed to community violence and recommends principles for applying these interventions. These principles are based on the body of research concerning risk and protective factors for children who have been exposed to violence. Relevant factors are reviewed and recommended principles are explicated that correlate to these factors. Issues concerning developmentally informed crisis intervention, support of parental executive functioning, and the need for active community partnership to help ameliorate risk factors are highlighted.
The determination of acidic degradation products in aqueous ethylene glycol and propylene glycol solutions using ion chromatography

Abstract Aqueous ethylene glycol and propylene glycol solutions are the principal antifreezes used as heat transfer fluids in flat-plate solar collector systems. Acidic degradation produces formed in the thermal oxidation of these solutions have been analyzed using ion chromatography (IC) and the ion-chromatography exclusion (ICE) method of analysis. The primary acidic degradation product found in the case of ethylene glycol solutions was glycolic acid. Propylene glycol solutions yielded mainly lactic acid. The presence of metallic copper significantly increased the amount of degradation products over that produced in the absence of metal. Solutions heated in the presnce of metallic aluminum were only slightly more degraded than those heated without metal, but contained relatively large amounts of formic acid. Only traces of formic acid were observed when the glycol solutions were heated in the absence of metal or in the presence of metallic copper.
Regulatory T cells from another bench: ready for the bedside?

Before the days of flow cytometry analysis, the field of immunology was already replete with “modern” terminologies of “suppression,” “killing,” “tolerance” and “defense.” The problem in those days was the lack of a clear molecular description of these anthropomorphic functions. Although we understood that there was a “yin” to every “yang” that regulates the immune system, we could not progress beyond the point of phenomenology. This situation changed with the seminal discoveries of Sakaguchi et al. (1), which elevated the suppressor T cell beyond its phenomenonologic status to an “identifiable population”: the regulatory T (Treg) cell. Sakaguchi et al. (1) showed that immune suppression was mediated by cells bearing CD25. The same group demonstrated 8 years later that a transcription factor, FOXP3, was crucial for the development of Treg cells (2). Problems in science often have multiple solutions, no more so than in the field of biologic sciences and its application to immune therapies for the clinic. With the discovery of a surface marker and intracellular marker, we thought we were well equipped to identify and isolate Treg cells precisely. However, CD25 was already known to be a marker shared by Treg cells and activated T cells, and even in the resting state non-Treg cells express this marker. The isolation to high purity and expansion of Treg cells was more cumbersome than anticipated because of both lack of purity of the starting population and the yield and purity of the end product. To add to these problems, FOXP3 not only turned out to be a marker of Treg cells, but was also up-regulated in non-Treg cells (3). Nevertheless, progress was made, with individual groups developing their own solutions to creating a Treg cell product for the clinic (3e7).
Bathymetry and paleoecology of silurian bethic assemblages, late llandoverian, New York State

Late Llandoverian marine shales in New York State are highly fossiliferous and provide and opportunity to examine gradients of biofacies. The Williamson and Willowvale formations (Llandoverian C6) were deposited during a major transgressive episodes in and adjacent to the axis of a narrow NE-SW trending, central Appalachian foreland basin. The Williamson Shale is a black to dark green, graptolite-bearing unit of the upper Clinton Group of western New York State. It grades eastward into gray fossiliferous shales and coquinoidlimestones of the Willowvale Formation. Orientation analysis of graptolites (Monograptus clintonensis) indicates paleoccurents dominantly from the northeast to east. The presence of rippled, cross-laminated sandstone beds (tempestites) within dark gray, graptolitic facies of the lower Williamson indicates that the darl shale facies was deposited in dysaerobic to marginally aerobic water slightly below storm wave base. Poorly fossiliferous green shales, higher in the Willimason, appear to slow deposition in dysaerobic water and suggest a gradual deepening. Graded brachipod coquinoid limestones, interpreted as storm layers, occur near the middle and top of the Williamson and in the Willovale Shale, and indicate deposition of these sediments above maximum storm wave base. The faunas of the Williamson and Willowvale shales are subdivisible into five vertically and laterally adjacent associations as follows: (a) Ichnofossil (Chondrites). (b) Monograptid- “Chonetes” Cornutus, (c) Eopletodonta-Atrypta, (d) Palaeocyclus-bryozoan, and (e) Eocoelia-“Chonetes” cornutus associations. This spectrum of fossil associations appears to parallel the increasing frequency of bottom disturbance by waves and currents from deeper basinal areas to higher-energy outer and low energy inner shallow, shelf settings. The fossil associations of the Williamson (a-c) probably belong to the deeper benthic assemblages 4–5, but developed in environments within to slightly below storm wave base, (about 50–80 m deep). The Willowvale fauna (c,d) representing benthic assemblages 3–4, inhabited somewhat shallower, better oxygenated environments of the photic zone, probably at depths of approximately 20–50 m. The easternmost to slightly southeastward, equivalent of Williamson-Willowvale fauna (e) evidently represents shallow water benthic assemblage 2. These conclusions indicate the need for a critical reevaluation of the bathymetric relations of benthic assemblages 3–5; a new interpretations of approximate depths for this range is presented herein.
Enzymatic Dissection of the Mammalian Ovary

Incubation of the ovaries of rats and mice with the proteolytic enzyme "pronase" caused the step by step dispersal of cellular elements from the tissue. The first subunits to be liberated were the outermost follicles or corpora lutea or both. Next, these subunits were dispersed. It is possible to obtain isolated single follicles in all stages of development: corpora lutea, isolated cell layers from within follicles, suspensions containing free cells, and ova in all phases of maturation.
Evidence for a higher oxidation state of manganese in the reaction of dinuclear manganese complexes with oxidants. Comparison with iron based Gif chemistry

Abstract Binuclear manganese complexes mimic the catalase enzyme by converting hydrogen peroxide rapidly and efficiently to oxygen and water. The complex (1) may be activated by either periodic acid or Oxone® and can oxidize selected organic substrates. Potassium manganate gave similar oxidation products suggesting that the manganese is transformed to a higher oxidation state. Kinetic studies with the MnIV-MnIV complex show an induction period indicating that it is not the active catalyst. Further studies suggested that the actual catalytic species is a MnIII-MnIV complex. These complexes show similar properties to the activation of FeCl3 with hydrogen peroxide. This is particularly evident by the formation of a new and unusual peroxide from ergosterol acetate.
Molecular inference of phylogenetic relationships among Decapodiformes (Mollusca: Cephalopoda) with special focus on the squid Order Oegopsida

Abstract Squids, cuttlefish and bobtail squids comprise the molluscan superorder Decapodiformes (Mollusca: Cephalopoda). Although these animals exemplify the morphological and ecological diversity seen in Cephalopoda, no previous study has focused resolving decapodiform relationships, particularly within Oegopsida, a large order comprised of pelagic squid. To further clarify the phylogenetic history of Decapodiformes, and Oegopsida in particular, molecular data for five genes (18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, Histone H3, 16S rRNA, COI) was collected for 90 taxa representing all major lineages and families and evaluated using parsimony, likelihood, and Bayesian analysis. Although ordinal relationships were sensitive to analytical method, several conclusions can be inferred: the pelagic order Myopsida is closely related to the benthic sepioids, whose relationships were ambiguous, and Bathyteuthoidea is distinct from Oegopsida. Within Oegopsida several clades are consistently recovered, some with previous morphological support (e.g. chiroteuthid, lepidoteuthid, histioteuthid families) while others suggest novel relationships (e.g. Architeuthidae + Neoteuthidae). This study, with its broad coverage of taxa, provides the first in-depth analysis of Decapodiformes with special focus on the morphologically and biogeographically diverse Oegopsida, confirms several sister-taxon relationships, and provides new hypotheses of cephalopod evolution in the open ocean.
Interpretation of small-angle x-ray scattering data from dilute montmorillonite suspensions using a modified Guinier approximation

Smectites are a group of 2:1-layer phyllosilicate minerals that have been extensively studied by small-angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) because of their industrial and environmental significance. In previous studies, a Guinier plot has been used to obtain the radius of gyration of the clay particles, from which geometric information of the particle structure is derived. Using an indirect Fourier transform to treat SAXS data from a dilute montmorillonite suspension, a negative electron contrast at the clay-water interface is observed. This electron inhomogeneity has violated the assumption underlying the application of the Guinier plot, which requires particles to have a uniform electron density. The presence of this inhomogeneity explains the inability of previous studies to correctly determine particle dimensions using the Guinier plot. Using this model of the clay-water interface, a modified Guinier plot has been derived and was experimentally verified. The calculation shows the presence of negative electron contrast at montmorillonite-water interfaces, which is in accordance with the results from the indirect Fourier transform method. This approximation has the potential to predict the geometric information for similar colloids studied by small-angle scattering.
100-nm CMOS gates patterned with 3 sigma below 10 nm

We have developed a process that uses a series of depositions and etches to pattern poly-silicon gates, eliminating the component of line width variation that normally arises from photolithography. Because the depositions and etches that determine line width are well controlled, we can pattern finer lines with better control using this process than with conventional methods. The results presented here show 3(sigma) < 10 nm for 100 nm lines. They are consistent with requirements for patterning gates in 2006 according to the 1997 edition of the National Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors. Using this patterning technique, we have made 100 nm nMOS transistors with 2 nm thick gate oxide, operating at 1.3 V. The distributions of important variables that characterize the operation of these transistors are shown to be much tighter than we obtain with conventional lithography.
Localization at the ultrastructural level of maternally derived enzyme and determination of the time of paternal gene expression for acid phosphatase-1 in Drosophila melanogaster☆

Abstract Ultrastructural histochemistry instead of acrylamide gel electrophoresis (see R. Yasbin, J. Sawicki, and R. J. MacIntyre, 1978, Develop. Biol. 63, 00-00) is used to determine the time of paternal gene expression for the enzyme acid phosphatase-1 of Drosophila melanogaster in Acph-1 n Acph-1 B embryos in which the null allele is derived from the female parent. Timed embryos were histochemically stained for acid phosphatase activity according to the lead phosphate method of Gomori and were examined at the ultrastructural level. Enzyme activity, resulting from activation of the paternal Acph-1 gene, is detected as early as 5 hr after fertilization. Maternally derived enzyme in Acph-1 B Acph-1 B embryos is found principally in the yolk regions and around invaginations. This suggests that acid phosphatase-1 functions in yolk digestion and in cell movements during early embryogenesis.
I'm Black But Look At Me, I Am Also Gifted:

The lack of representation of black gifted children in educational programs for the gifted is a cause for great concem. Historical precedents and lack of empirical data on appropriate identificatio...
Silicon photonics and lasers

Tremendous advances are being made in silicon photonics. Complicated photonic integrated circuits combining active and passive devices are becoming available for a large variety of applications from telecommunications to imaging.
Moments of the proton F 2 structure function at low Q 2

We investigate the ${Q}^{2}$ dependence of inclusive electron-proton scattering ${F}_{2}$ structure function data in both the nucleon resonance region and the deep inelastic region, at momentum transfers below 5 $(\mathrm{GeV}{/c)}^{2}.$ From these data we construct moments of ${F}_{2},$ down to momentum transfers of ${Q}^{2}\ensuremath{\approx}0.1$ $(\mathrm{GeV}{/c)}^{2}.$ The second moment is only slowly varying with ${Q}^{2}$ down to ${Q}^{2}\ensuremath{\approx}1$ $(\mathrm{GeV}{/c)}^{2},$ which is a reflection of duality. Below ${Q}^{2}$ of 1 $(\mathrm{GeV}{/c)}^{2},$ the ${Q}^{2}$ dependence of the moments is predominantly governed by the elastic contribution, whereas the inelastic channels still seem governed by local duality.
Racial differences in the prevalence of age-related macular degeneration: the Baltimore Eye Survey.

Abstract Objective To determine the prevalence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and signs of age-related maculopathy in a population-based sample of blacks and whites 40 years of age or older from East Baltimore. Design Cross-sectional population-based study. Participants A total of 5308 black and white subjects received a screening eye examination that included fundus photography. Main outcome measures Stereoscopic color fundus photographs were graded for the presence and severity of drusen, pigmentary abnormalities, geographic atrophy, and choroidal neovascularization in the macula. Results Drusen ≥ 64μm were identified in about 20% of individuals in both groups, but large drusen (>125μm) were more common among older whites (15% for whites versus 9% for blacks over 70). Pigmentary abnormalities were also more common among older whites (7.9% for whites versus 0.4% for blacks over 70). Age-related macular degeneration was more prevalent among whites than blacks. The prevalence of AMD was 2.1% among whites over 70 years of age. No cases of AMD were detected among 243 black subjects in this age group. Logistic regression adjusting for age, sex and smoking (current, former, or never) detected an odds ratio of 4.4 (95% confidence interval: 1.5–12.4) for whites with AMD compared with blacks. Conclusion Although drusen are common in both blacks and whites over the age of 40, more severe forms of age-related maculopathy and late AMD are more prevalent in older whites.
Dorsal hippocampal lesions: Effects of preconditioning CS exposure on flavor aversion

A learned aversion to a walnut solution paired with lithium carbonate was examined in rats with lesions of the dorsal hippocampus. While preconditioning CS exposure retarded conditioning in controls, this same manipulation did not affect suppression to the CS in animals with lesions and, in fact, resulted in greater stimulus control in these subjects. These results support the view that the hippocampus is involved in the modulation of attention.
Maximizing the descent statistic

For a subsetS, let the descent statistic β(S) be the number of permutations that have descent setS. We study inequalities between the descent statistics of subsets. Each subset (and its complement) is encoded by a list containing the lengths of the runs. We define two preorders that compare different lists based on the descent statistic. Using these preorders, we obtain a complete order on lists of the form (k i ,P,k n−i , whereP is a palindrome, whose first entry is larger thank. We prove a conjecture due to Gessel, which determines the list that maximizes the descent statistic, among lists of a given size and given length. We also have a generalization of the boustrophedon transform of Millar, Sloane and Young.
The other high-temperature superconductors

Abstract Since the discovery of the high-temperature superconducting cuprates in 1986, there have been four classes of superconductors discovered that have members with critical temperature higher than the highest known in 1986. These classes are typified by (in chronological order) the representatives: Ba 1− x K x BiO 3 , Cs 3 C 60 , YPd 2 B 2 C, and Na x HfNCl, with maximum critical temperatures, respectively, of 35, 40, 23, and 25 K. These new superconductors are mostly different from the older superconductors, and certainly different from the layered cuprates. For several characteristics that are possibly important for superconductivity, two or three of the classes share similarities. There seems, however, to be almost no feature that is shared by all four classes. However, the three for which there is isotope shift data clearly qualify as phonon-coupled superconductors.
The neural basis of non-native speech perception in bilingual children.

Abstract The goal of the present study is to reveal how the neural mechanisms underlying non-native speech perception change throughout childhood. In a pre-attentive listening fMRI task, English monolingual and Spanish–English bilingual children – divided into groups of younger (6–8 yrs) and older children (9–10 yrs) – were asked to watch a silent movie while several English syllable combinations played through a pair of headphones. Two additional groups of monolingual and bilingual adults were included in the analyses. Our results show that the neural mechanisms supporting speech perception throughout development differ in monolinguals and bilinguals. While monolinguals recruit perceptual areas (i.e., superior temporal gyrus) in early and late childhood to process native speech, bilinguals recruit perceptual areas (i.e., superior temporal gyrus) in early childhood and higher-order executive areas in late childhood (i.e., bilateral middle frontal gyrus and bilateral inferior parietal lobule, among others) to process non-native speech. The findings support the Perceptual Assimilation Model and the Speech Learning Model and suggest that the neural system processes phonological information differently depending on the stage of L2 speech learning.
Endoscopic transpterygoid approach to the lateral sphenoid recess: surgical approach and clinical experience.

Objective Pathology within a lateral recess of a widely pneumatized sphenoid sinus is difficult to access with the use of traditional open and current endoscopic surgical approaches. A new surgical procedure, the endoscopic transpterygoid approach, directly accesses this region. A clinical experience over several year with this approach is reported as well as a refined and updated description of the technique. Setting Tertiary care center. Methods Retrospective review of medical records of patients treated with the endoscopic transpterygoid approach to the lateral sphenoid recess. Results An endoscopic transpterygoid approach was performed in 9 patients, 6 to resect a middle fossa meningoencephalocele and repair the CSF leak and associated skull base defect, 2 for possible invasive fungal sinusitis, and 1 to marsupialize a symptomatic epidermoid cyst. Patients tolerated the approach well and no significant complications occurred. Conclusions and significance In selected cases, the endoscopic transpterygoid approach enables the otolaryngologist to meet modern demands to treat conditions in the lateral sphenoid using minimally invasive techniques that are well-tolerated by patients. The surgical approach and the initial experience described herein is presented in the hopes that it can aid fellow otolaryngologists to help patients with challenging conditions in this region of the body.
Reflections on Samuelson's Economics of Forestry in an Evolving Society

Paul A. Samuelson called me (Peter) into his office in the fall of 1974 because he thought I knew something about the Faustmann problem, the question of present value maximizing rotation length in ...
The Synthesis of Some N-Alkyl-p-Cyanobenzamides*,†

Abstract The preparation of p -cyanobenzamide and 18 new N-alkyl- p -cyanobenzamides is reported.
Validation of automated spectrofluroimetry for measurement of regional organ perfusion using fluorescent microspheres.

Abstract The fluorescent microsphere (FM) method for determination of regional organ blood flow is labor intensive, requiring processing of 100 s to 1000 s of samples per organ. To save time and reduce handling errors, we developed an automated fluorescence analysis system by interfacing a commercially available spectrofluorimeter and sample delivery unit to a PC, operated by a Windows95®-based program, WINFAC. WINFAC allows versatile analysis setup and instrument control for fluorescent intensity acquisition at fixed wavelengths or by synchronous scanning. Data is presented on screen, in real-time, and stored in text format. Reference analyses are performed at specified intervals and the coefficient of variation is continuously updated to monitor instrument performance. The automated system was validated against radioactive microspheres (RM) for lung perfusion in a pig and sheep and evaluated for analysis reproducibility. Fluorescent and radioactive microspheres were delivered by simultaneous injection into a femoral vein. Lungs were excised, flushed, dried at total lung capacity, and cubed into ≈2cm3 pieces (n=833 and 1560, pig and sheep, respectively). Radioactive count rates were determined for each lung piece (corrected for decay, background and spillover). Fluorescent dyes were extracted in solvent and intensities were determined at fixed wavelengths, using the automated spectrofluorimeter (corrected for background and spillover). Multi-color reference solutions were measured every 50 samples to monitor instrument reproducibility. Blood flow estimates for each piece determined by RM and FM methods were highly correlated: R2=0.98±0.017, Slopes=1.00±0.007 and Intercepts=0.00±0.006 (mean±SD). The CV of repeat reference analyses was 0.71%±0.16, a 30% to 50% reduction relative to manual analysis. Automated spectrofluorimetry reduces measurement errors and is a reliable and time saving advancement. With this technology, use of FM to measure regional lung perfusion approaches the ease and accuracy of the RM method.
Irreversible Nek2 kinase inhibitors with cellular activity

A structure-based approach was used to design irreversible, cysteine-targeted inhibitors of the human centrosomal kinase, Nek2. Potent inhibition of Nek2 kinase activity in biochemical and cell-based assays required a noncatalytic cysteine residue (Cys22), located near the glycine-rich loop in a subset of human kinases. Elaboration of an oxindole scaffold led to our most selective compound, oxindole propynamide 16 (JH295). Propynamide 16 irreversibly inhibited cellular Nek2 without affecting the mitotic kinases, Cdk1, Aurora B, or Plk1. Moreover, 16 did not perturb bipolar spindle assembly or the spindle assembly checkpoint. To our knowledge, 16 is the first small molecule shown to inactivate Nek2 kinase activity in cells.
The Kamin effect in hippocampal-lesioned animals

Ventral hippocampal and sham-operated rats were given one-way active-avoidance training followe d by relearning either 5 min, 1 h, or 24 h later. Both ventral hippocampal and sham-operated rats showed deficits in active-avoidance relearning performance 1 h after original avoidance acquisition. The failure of ventral hippocampal lesions to influence avoidance performance 1 h following original avoidance acquisition may indicate that neither the adrenal-pituitary nor the adrenergic-cholinergic systems are essential for the occurrence of the Kamin effect.
A Conceptual Model of Weight Loss and Weight Regain: An Intervention for Change

Abstract Obesity is considered one of the most prevalent health problems in the United States. The controversy surrounding the causes of obesity and its incidence of illness as well as the less-than-promising statistics for long-term weight loss raise questions about present treatment modalities. Statistics indicate that the majority of persons who lose weight regain the weight within 1 to 5 years. Statistics also indicate that 95% of the participants in weight loss programs are women. Based on the findings of a qualitative study, Wysoker developed a model of weight loss and weight regain. The model offers a framework for treatment and includes three different approaches: (a) one can lose weight and keep it off; (b) it may be impossible to lose weight and keep it off; and (c) women will continue to try to lose weight, despite the long history of losing weight and gaining the lost weight back. (J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc [2002]. 8, 168-73.)
Insulin inhibits apolipoprotein B secretion in isolated human hepatocytes.

The effect of insulin on apolipoprotein (apo) B secretion was investigated in human hepatocytes. Freshly isolated hepatocytes, prepared by collagenase dispersion of liver specimens, were incubated in serum-free media in the absence and presence of 100 nmol/L insulin for 2 hours. The media was then assayed for apo B content by radioimmunoassay. In hepatocytes incubated without insulin, the secretion of apo B (relative to human low-density lipoprotein [LDL]) was 125 ± 37 ng/106 cells/2 hours. In the presence of insulin, apo B secretion was reduced to 83 ± 29 ng/106 cells/2 hours (34% inhibition, P < .05). These results using human hepatocytes are consistent with previous data from our laboratory describing insulin-dependent inhibition of apo B secretion in primary cultures of rat hepatocytes and studies by others employing the human-derived hepatoma cell line, Hep G2. We conclude that human hepatic apo B secretion is under insulin control. The role of more chronic insulin exposure requires further investigation.
A simple method for biliary-enteric anastomosis and chronic bile diversion in the rat

A simple method of biliary-enteric anastomosis, without the use of surgical microscopy, is described. There were no signs of cholestasis after 3 mo of follow-up. A modified procedure using a silicone elastomer catheter as a stent for the biliary-enteric anastomosis resulted in biliary obstruction within 3 wk after surgery. Our experimental bile duct implantation technique is a simple and useful experimental method for the investigation of chronic biliary diversion and biliary physiology. Additionally, it can be performed safely and easily in a rodent model without sophisticated microscopic techniques. (HEPATOLOGY 1991;14:128–130.)
RADIUM ISOTOPE GEOCHEMISTRY OF THERMAL WATERS, YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, WYOMING, USA

Abstract Radium isotope activities (226Ra, 228Ra, and 224Ra), chemical compositions, and sulfur isotope ratios in sulfate were determined for water samples from thermal areas in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. Activities of 226Ra in these waters range from 228 Ra 226 Ra range from 0.26 to 14.2, and those of 224 Ra 228 Ra range from 0.73 to 3.1. Radium concentrations are inversely correlated with aquifer equilibration temperatures (estimated from dissolved silica concentrations), while[ Ra Ba ]aq and 228 Ra 226 Ra activity ratios depend upon U Ba and Th U ratios in aquifer rocks. Major controls on Ra concentration in Yellowstone thermal waters are inferred to be 1. (1) barite saturation (at Morris Geyser Basin, Mammoth Hot Springs, and other northern areas) and 2. (2) zeolitewater ion exchange (at Upper Geyser Basin). The data are consistent with a model in which 3. (1) radium and barium are supplied to water by bulk dissolution of aquifer rock, and 4. (2) chemical equilibration of water with rock is rapid relative to the 1602 year half-life of 226Ra. The 228 Ra 226 Ra activity ratios of the waters may in some cases reflect surface enrichments of 232Th and/or may indicate that α-recoil input of 228Ra is rapid relative to water-rock chemical equilibration. Activity ratios of 224 Ra 228 Ra indicate a nearly ubiquitous 224Ra excess that generally increases with decreasing pH. Near-surface (≤100 m) thermal water flow velocities at Mammoth Hot Springs are estimated from 224 Ra 228 Ra variation to be ≥ 1 m h−1.
A FURTHER EXAMINATION OF STOCK PRICE CHANGES AND TRANSACTION VOLUME

This study provides a further test of whether the price change-volume relationship is asymmetric as Epps' theoretical model and empirical evidence indicate. Testing during periods of known information arrival supports his hypothesis that the ratio of volume to absolute price change on price increases is higher than that ratio on equivalent price decreases. There is some contrary evidence when the testing occurs over trading days for which there is no known information arrival. This reversal of results could be due to the combined effect of positive transaction costs and no information arrival. There is evidence in support of this explanation.
Evaluation of the corrosion resistance of different galvanized steels treated in a cerium salt solution

Analysis of polarization curves and impedance spectra has shown that the surface chemistry of galvanized steels plays an important role in determining their corrosion behavior. Zn-Ni samples that were untreated or had been treated in a 10 mM Ce(NO 3 ) 3 solution had the lowest corrosion rates in 0.5 N NaCl. The efficiency of the surface modification process was the highest for electrogalvanized steel. Surface analysis showed that the protective layers on Zn-Ni and electrogalvanized steel contained mainly cerium oxides/hydroxides, while the layer on hot-dipped steel consisted mainly of zinc hydroxide.
Prediction of the particle flow conditions in the freeboard of a freely bubbling fluidized bed

The density and flux of particles in the freeboard of a freely bubbling fluidized bed is a function of the size, aspect ratio and frequency of bubbles erupting at the surface of the dense bed. To predict the velocity and amount of material thrown into the freeboard, a previous model for the eruption of a single bubble (Yule and Glicksman, 1989, Proceedings Engineering Foundation International Fluidization Conference, Canada) was reformulated to deal with the eruption of a multiple bubbles undergoing coalescence at the bed surface. The solution includes the explicit mechanics of particle elements in the nose of the leading bubble as well as the particle elements in the wakes of bubbles trapped between coalescing bubbles. The motive force for the particle acceleration is the excess gas flow through the cavity at the bed surface. The gas flow, in turn is found from a numerical solution spanning the bed from the upper surface to the distributor. The solutions for a single erupting bubble, two vertically aligned bubbles, and three vertically aligned bubbles were obtained numerically. The predicted vertical mass flux of particles decreases exponentially with height. The smooth fall off of the predicted flux with height above the bed is due to the consideration of separate particle elements which have different initial conditions at different points around the nose of the bubble. The solution for the erupting single sphere agrees with the measurements of George and Grace (1978, A.I.Ch.E.Symp. Ser. 74). For a freely bubbling bed, the frequency of bubble eruptions and the probability of coalescence at the bed surface can be obtained from a statistical model of the bubbling process which has been used before to predict accurately the expansion of bubbling beds (Glicksman et al., 1991, Chem. Engng Sci. 46, 1561–1571). Combining the statistical model with the predictions for single eruptions results in a prediction of the flux and density distributions in the freeboard. Measured density distributions above a freely bubbling bed, containing horizontal tubes, are in general agreement with the model predictions. The distributions are found to be primarily controlled by the bubble size at the bed surface, the volume fraction of bubbles in the bed and the excess gas velocity UUmf. The predicted exponential coefficient for density and mass flux vs height is consistent with the correlation of experimental results given by Kunii and Levenspiel (1990, Powder Technol. 61, 193).
Computational and spectroscopic studies concerning the solvatochromic behavior of 1,3‐disubstituted azulenes

Estimates of excited-state dipole moments for various 1,3-disubstituted azulenes possessing electron-withdrawing substituents, using the CIS/6-31+G(d,p) model, reveal that unlike azulene, the excited-state dipole moments are generally in the same direction as, although smaller in magnitude than, their ground-state counterparts. This gives rise to hypsochromic shifts in the UV-visible spectrum of these dipolar indicator molecules as solvent polarity is increased. Furthermore, B3LYP density functional calculations on several 1,3-diacylazulenes indicate that the s-cis conformation is preferred over s-trans. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2006
Assessing the Value of Reflex Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization Testing in the Diagnosis of Bladder Cancer When Routine Urine Cytological Examination is Equivocal

Purpose: We evaluated the usefulness of fluorescence in situ hybridization in the treatment of patients with equivocal cytology.Materials and Methods: Fluorescence in situ hybridization was performed in residual urine from 124 patients with a cytological diagnosis of cell clusters (22), atypical findings (46) and suspicious findings (56) who had a same day cystoscopy result and bladder biopsy within 6 months of the cytology diagnosis. Urologists and fluorescence in situ hybridization technologists were blinded to the matching fluorescence in situ hybridization and cystoscopy results, respectively.Results: In conjunction with cystoscopy fluorescence in situ hybridization was significantly more sensitive than cystoscopy alone for detecting cancer (87% vs 67%, p <0.001) and muscle invasive cancer (94% vs 56%, p = 0.031). Of the 124 equivocal cytology specimens 58 (47%) were positive by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Of these patients 53 (91%) had subsequent evidence of carcinoma, including Ta tumors in ...
Factors specifying the development of synapse number in the rat dentate gyrus: effects of partial target loss

Abstract The development of the dentate gyrus has been studied under conditions of partial reduction of granule cell number. Neonatal rats were subjected to X-irradiation, a procedure which reduces the number of granule cells to 20% of control values. In X-irradiated rats, quantitative analyses were performed on cells in the entorhinal cortex which give rise to the perforant path projection to the dentate granule cells, and on the remaining, undamaged dentate granule cells. These residual cells were examined morphologically for possible hyperdevelopment in comparison to granule cells from control animals. Granule cells in X-irradiated animals were similar to granule cells in control animals with respect to dendritic structure and synaptic density. The number of neurons in both the medial and lateral entorhinal cortices in X-irradiated animals appeared normal until day 12, at which time a selective reduction in cell numbers became apparent. By day 30, 25–55% of the cells of origin of the perforant path were absent in X-irradiated animals. It is hypothesized that these cells are subject to retrograde transynaptic degeneration as a result of target removal. Further, it appears that granule cells play an important role in determining the density of their innervation.