cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stress-driven transport in ordered porous anodic films

Ionic transport in porous anodic alumina (PAA) films during steady-state growth was simulated, including effects of ionic migration in the electric potential and stress gradients, as well as material flow. The calculated flow patterns display similar characteristics to those revealed by experimental studies. The results indicate that the stress field driving the flow originates from three sources: volume change at the metal-film interface during oxidation, the nonlinear current-electric field relationship governing ionic conduction, and insertion of species at the film-solution interface.
Use of a microsome-mediated test system to assess efficacy and mechanisms of cancer chemopreventive agents

There is a growing need for short-term assays which can assess the mechanisms and efficacy of cancer chemopreventive agents. In the present study we have employed a microsome-mediated test system concomitantly with DNA adduct detection to assess the efficacy of five chemopreventive agents, N-acetylcysteine, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), curcumin, oltipraz, and ellagic acid. 32P-Postlabeling analysis of DNA incubated with benzo[a]pyrene (BP) in the presence of Aroclor 1254-induced microsomes produced two major adducts: one derived from the interaction of benzo[a]pyrene-7,8-diol-9,10-epoxide (BPDE) with deoxyguanosine (dG) and the other from further activation of 9-OH-BP (309 and 34 adducts/10(7) nucleotides, respectively). With the exception of N-acetylcysteine, all test agents significantly altered BP-DNA adduct levels: Intervention with ellagic acid and oltipraz substantially (64-94%) inhibited both BPDE-dG and 9-OH-BP adducts, while intervention with curcumin and BHT inhibited the BPDE-dG adduct (57% and 38%, respectively) and enhanced the 9-OH-BP adduct (230% and 650%, respectively). Furthermore, ellagic acid was the only test agent observed to inhibit the anti BPDE-dG adduct in the absence of microsomal enzymes, which is consistent with the known conjugation of ellagic acid with BPDE. These results suggest that oltipraz may be acting as an inhibitor of P4501A1, the isozyme involved in activation of BP to BPDE, or by conjugation of the electrophilic species by a metabolite of oltipraz. A plausible mechanism for inhibition of the BPDE-dG adduct and enhancement of the 9-OH-BP adduct by curcumin and BHT includes inhibition of epoxide hydrolase. Our results also indicate that N-acetylcysteine does not act as an electrophilic trapping agent of BP metabolites but may exert its protective effect in vivo by various other means, including modulation of detoxification enzymes and altering DNA repair processes. These data suggest that this cell-free system in conjunction with the sensitive 32P-postlabeling DNA adduct analysis may prove a viable test system for assessing the mechanisms and efficacy of chemopreventive agents.
Long-term subcutaneous microdialysis sampling and qRT-PCR of MCP-1, IL-6 and IL-10 in freely-moving rats

Cytokines are important mediators of the wound healing response. However, sampling of cytokines from the interstitial fluid at a healing wound site in experimental animals is a challenge. Microdialysis sampling is an in vivo collection option for this purpose as it permits continuous sampling, while remaining contiguous with the wound microenvironment. The polymeric membrane of the microdialysis probe is a foreign material thus allowing a unique approach to sample cytokines generated during a foreign body response (FBR). The focus of these studies was to use microdialysis sampling to collect cytokines from a microdialysis probe implant site in a rat model of a FBR up to 6 days post implantation. Fluorescent bead-based immunoassays (Luminex™) were used to quantify monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1/CCL2), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) in the dialysates. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to cross validate the protein measurements obtained via micorodialysis sampling. A histological examination of tissue was also performed to assess the progression in leukocyte extravasation and collagen deposition surrounding implanted probes. Our findings demonstrate that in vivomicrodialysis sampling can be used to collect temporal concentrations of cytokines which are consistent with wound healing and the development of a FBR.
Non-Destructive Analysis of Ancient Chinese Bronzes Utilizing Industrial Computed Tomography

Industrial computed tomography was used to study eight Chinese bronzes from the collection of the Cincinnati Art Museum. With industrial CT two different types of images can be formed, the digital radiograph (DR) which produces a two-dimensional image of the object and computed tomography (CT) which takes a cross-sectional slice. A further advancement discussed is the use of General Electric’s Digital Replica™ method to create a three-dimensional reconstruction of the object which enables one to view interior surfaces and to dissect joins. The paper discusses the numerous advantages of the industrial CT over conventional radiography.
Sex pheromone communication in the nematode,Rhabditis pellio

Both males and females ofRhabditis pellio release pheromones that attract the opposite sex prior to copulation. A quantitative bioassay for the female-produced pheromone was designed, based on male movement toward a pheromone source placed at one end of a 10-mm strip of bacterial material maintained on nutrient agar in a petri plate. Females produced pheromone from the age at which they attained the adult stage (∼3 days following hatching from the egg) and maintained a relatively constant production level until at least the ninth day of life. Similarly, males became responsive to the female pheromone by the third day and remained responsive through the ninth day, although the time required for the males to migrate toward a female pheromone source increased with increasing age. No daily rhythm of pheromone responsiveness by males or pheromone production by females was observed when the nematodes were conditioned to a 12∶12 h light-dark cycle.
Test of a model of right-handed b-quark decays.

Gronau and Wakaizumi have proposed a model in which the dominant [ital b] decays are due to exchange of a new right-handed gauge boson. A test of this model via the study of polarized [Lambda][sub [ital b]] baryons produced in [ital e][sup +][ital e[minus]][r arrow][ital Z][r arrow][Lambda][sub [ital b]]+[ital X] is suggested.
Phenobarbital-responsive sialadenosis associated with an esophageal foreign body in a dog

A 4-year-old Yorkshire terrier was presented for an esophageal foreign body. After removal of the foreign body, clinical signs of gagging, regurgitation, and vomiting continued unabated for >6 weeks. The dog had enlarged submandibular salivary glands that were histologically normal. Treatment with phenobarbital resulted in a rapid and dramatic resolution of clinical signs. After 3 months, the dog was weaned of phenobarbital and was free of any signs of disease 6 months later.
The development of the medullary serotonergic system in the piglet.

The anatomy of the 5-HT system in the medulla oblongata is well defined in several vertebrate species, but not in the piglet. A detailed map and developmental profile of this system is particularly important in the piglet because this species increasingly is used as a model for physiological studies of medullary homeostatic control and its disorders in human infancy, especially the sudden infant death syndrome. Tryptophan hydroxylase immunohistochemistry was used to identify 5-HT cells and map their distribution in the medullae of piglets between postnatal days 4 and 30, the putative comparable period to early human infancy. Tritiated (3H)-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) binding to 5-HT1A-D and 5-HT2 receptors and 3H-8-hydroxy-2-[di-N-propylamine]tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) binding to 5-HT1A receptors were used to quantify and map the distribution of these serotonin receptors between 4 and 60 postnatal days. The distribution of 5-HT cells was similar to that observed in other vertebrate species, with cell bodies in and lateral to the caudal raphe. Tritiated-LSD and 3H-8-OH-DPAT binding both showed significant age-related changes in select raphe and extra-raphe subnuclei. Taken together, these findings suggest that while the medullary 5-HT cells are topographically in place at birth in the piglet, changes in 5-HT neurotransmission take place during the first 30 days of life, as reflected by changes in patterns of receptor binding. Therefore, the first 30 days of life represent a critical period in the development of the 5-HT system and the homeostatic functions it mediates.
Theoretical study of proton transfers between base pairs of DNA

Abstract Single and multiple proton transfers between the bases guanine and cytosine and between adenine and thymine are studied using the LCAO SCF all-electron PRDDO method. Single proton transfers are found to lead to single-well potentials while double transfers are characterized by double-well potentials.
UNUSUAL FILAMENTS INSIDE THE UMBRA

We analyze several unusual filamentary structures which appeared in the umbra of one of the sunspots in AR 11302. They do not resemble typical light bridges in morphology or in evolution. We analyze data from SDO/HMI to investigate their temporal evolution, Hinode/SP for photospheric inversions, IBIS for chromospheric imaging, and SDO/AIA for the overlying corona. Photospheric inversions reveal a horizontal, inverse Evershed flow along these structures, which we call umbral filaments. Chromospheric images show brightenings and energy dissipation, while coronal images indicate that bright coronal loops seem to end in these umbral filaments. These rapidly evolving features do not seem to be common, and are possibly related to the high flare-productivity of the active region. Their analysis could help to understand the complex evolution of active regions.
A note on broad-sense heritability of selected sensory descriptors in Virginia-type Arachis hypogaea L.

Abstract Improvement of flavor quality is a breeding objective that merits increased attention. To obtain further information on broad-sense heritability of selected sensory attributes, 30 virginia...
Wet-milling Factors of Sorghum and Relationship to Grain Quality

Abstract Relationships of grain sorghum quality factors (proximate composition and physical properties) to laboratory wet-milling attributes (fraction yields, protein content of fractions and recovery values) of 24 grain sorghum commercial hybrids were determined. Initial water absorption rate was positively correlated with both starch and gluten recoveries (r>0·45), thus showing the greatest significance among all quality factors. The need to understand fully protein matrix breakdown relative to obtaining optimum separation of components was indicated. Positive correlations of residual protein in starch with density and percent abraded (r>0·45) were observed. Laboratory wet-milling attributes also were correlated among themselves. The highest positive correlations were observed among yield and recovery of starch and gluten (r>0·6). These four parameters had strong negative correlations with fiber/germ yield (r
Gas-Phase Iron Abundances and Depletions in Translucent Interstellar Lines of Sight from Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer Observations of Fe II Lines

Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer (FUSE) wavelength coverage includes several weak- to moderate-strength lines of Fe II, allowing the determination, through curve-of-growth analysis, of accurate Fe II abundances and hence iron depletions. We have analyzed Fe II absorption lines toward 18 of the reddened stars included in the FUSE survey of molecular hydrogen abundances in translucent clouds. Our analysis is based on equivalent width measurements and curves of growth, aided by the fact that some of the observed lines are weak enough to be on the linear part of the curve of growth. In interpreting our abundance and depletion results, we have combined our data with those of an earlier survey of interstellar iron abundances and depletions in diffuse clouds, based on Copernicus data. The principal result of our survey is that iron depletions, known from earlier work to increase with average line-of-sight density for diffuse clouds, do not continue to increase with either density or extinction in translucent clouds; i.e., there is no significant trend of increasing depletion with increasing extinction or molecular fraction. This may be due to the fact that our data set does not probe lines of sight with greater average volume densities than those that were covered by the previous Copernicus-based survey of iron depletions. We conclude by reevaluating the definition of translucent clouds, based on the lack of enhanced iron depletions in our sample.
Pediatric MLBL: challenges remain.

In this issue of Blood , Gerrard et al report the outcome and histologic classification of children and adolescents with mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma (MLBL), and highlight the need for new treatment strategies.[1][1] Improvement in the treatment outcome for children and adolescents with high-
Thet complex of the mouse: Chemical characterization by urinary volatile profiles.

Urine samples from C3H congenic house mice (Mus domesticus) differing only at thet complex were examined by capillary gas chromatography to assess variations in the volatile components that may cause olfactory discrimination between animals bearingt lethal and+(wild-type) haplotypes. Urine was collected from 192 males and females varying in age from 1 to 9 months. C3H congenic mice that have the same genetic background at all loci but differed in theirt complex genotypes: +/ +, +/tw1,T/tw1, T/+ were used. No urinary volatiles were unique to thet complex. However, significant differences amongt complex genotypes and among ages occurred for concentrations of 12 male volatiles and four female volatiles. Usually young males (1–2 months of age) had significantly higher concentrations of cyclic enol ethers and ketones than older males (4–9 months of age). Moreover, some urinary volatiles (cyclic enol ethers, one ketone, dehydrobrevicomin, and thiazoline) were excreted in the urine of T/+and/orT/t males in significantly higher concentration than in the urine of +/+ males. Age andt complex genotype influences on the urinary volatiles in females were observed for four ketones. Gas chromatography of urinary components has the potential to be used in field studies of thet complex because the two t complex genotypes found in wild populations, +/+ and +/t, had significant differences in concentration for two males volatiles and three female volatiles.
Heteroepitaxial B12As2 on silicon substrates

The morphology and crystal structure of rhombohedral B{sub 12}As{sub 2} thin films prepared by chemical vapor deposition on Si (1 0 0), Si (1 1 0) and Si (1 1 1) substrates were examined. For short depositions, 30 s at 1300 C, the B{sub 12}As{sub 2} nucleated in patterns that were unique to each substrate orientation, probably due to variations in the surface atomic structure and surface activation energy of the substrates. Small square domains, one-dimensional straight lines, and irregular lines were the representative morphologies on Si (1 0 0), Si (1 1 1) and Si (1 1 0), respectively. For long depositions, 30 min at 1300 C, continuous thin films of B{sub 12}As{sub 2} formed with distinct morphologies also depend on the orientation of the substrates. 'Cross', 'wire' and 'chain' morphologies were formed on the Si (1 0 0), Si (1 1 1) and Si (1 1 0) substrates, respectively. X-ray diffraction (XRD) showed that the B{sub 12}As{sub 2} films had the following predominant oriented textures: B{sub 12}As{sub 2} (1 1 0) on Si (1 0 0), B{sub 12}As{sub 2} (1 0 1) on Si (1 1 1), and B{sub 12}As{sub 2} (0 0 1) on Si (1 1more » 0). The in-plane orientations of the B{sub 12}As{sub 2} films as determined by XRD pole figures is also reported.« less
Complexation of retroviruses with charged polymers enhances gene transfer by increasing the rate that viruses are delivered to cells.

Background We have previously found that retrovirus transduction is enhanced when an anionic polymer (chondroitin sulfate C) is added to virus stocks that contain an equal weight concentration of a cationic polymer (Polybrene). This observation was unexpected given that previous work has shown that cationic polymers enhance transduction while anionic polymers have the opposite effect. Methods Using model recombinant retroviruses and lentiviruses that encode for the Escherichia coli lacZ gene and quantitative assays of virus adsorption and transduction, we examined the mechanism of enhancement. Results We found that addition of oppositely charged polymers (Polybrene and chondroitin sulfate C) to virus stocks enhanced gene transfer by increasing the flux of active viruses to the cells. Virus–polymer complexes formed that did not reduce the stability of the viruses, yet were large enough to sediment, delivering the viruses to the cells more rapidly than by simple diffusion. The size of the complexes, the rate of sedimentation, and the levels of gene transfer increased with increasing concentrations of polymers. The degree to which transduction was enhanced ranged from 2- to nearly 40-fold, and varied depending on the type of cells and viruses used. Interestingly, we found that association of the viruses with the polymer complexes did not significantly hinder their ability to complete post-binding steps of transduction. Conclusions Complexation of retroviruses with charged polymers significantly improves the efficiency of ex vivo gene transfer by increasing the number of active viruses that reach the cells. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Representation in School Psychology Intervention Research

An understanding of the current intervention research is critical to the adoption of evidence-based practices in the delivery of psychological services; however, the generalizability and utility of intervention research for culturally and linguistically diverse youth may be limited by the types of research samples utilized. This study addresses this topic, as it represents a content analysis of research published in school psychology journals from 2005 to 2012. A search of articles from School Psychology Review, School Psychology Quarterly, Journal of School Psychology, Psychology in the Schools, and Journal of Applied School Psychology yielded 1,543 articles, of which 170 were intervention research articles that included children—from early childhood through high school—as target samples. Analyses of these articles focused on the representation of the diversity (e.g., racial/ethnic group membership, socioeconomic status, and English language learner status) in the intervention samples. Moreover, studies were coded to determine whether comparisons were made across students of different group statuses within the different categories of diversity. Overall results suggest low representation of some diverse groups, as well as minimal comparisons between students of different diversity groups. Implications for practice, research, and training are discussed.
A phase I study of weekly temsirolimus and topotecan in the treatment of advanced and/or recurrent gynecologic malignancies☆

Abstract Objective The mTOR inhibitor, temsirolimus, has clinical activity in the treatment of gynecologic malignancies, particularly endometrial cancer. We sought to determine the tolerability of the combination of weekly topotecan with weekly temsirolimus. Methods Women with a history of advanced or recurrent gynecologic malignancy refractory to curative therapy were enrolled. A starting dose of 1mg/m 2 of intravenous topotecan days 1, 8 and 15 was combined with 25mg temsirolimus days 1, 8, 15 and 22 of a 28day cycle. Patients with and without prior pelvic radiotherapy (RT) were dose-escalated in separate cohorts. Results Fifteen patients were treated on study. Forty-three cycles were administered, with between 1 and 7cycles received per patient. Patient characteristics included ovarian cancer ( n =7), endometrial cancer ( n =3), uterine carcinosarcoma ( n =3), and cervical cancer ( n =2); performance status 0 ( n =10) and 1 ( n =5); prior chemotherapy regimens one ( n =8), two ( n =4), and three ( n =3). Dose-limiting toxicity included asymptomatic neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. Four patients without prior pelvic RT were successfully treated with 1mg/m 2 topotecan with 25mg temsirolimus, days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28day cycle. The combination was not tolerated in patients with a history of pelvic RT. Conclusions Dose-limiting toxicity for the combination of temsirolimus with topotecan was myelosuppression. The regimen may be safe in women who have not previously received radiation, but full doses of each agent could not be administered in combination.
Cytoskeleton–membrane interactions in membrane raft structure

Cell membranes are structurally heterogeneous, composed of discrete domains with unique physical and biological properties. Membrane domains can form through a number of mechanisms involving lipid-lipid and protein-lipid interactions. One type of membrane domain is the cholesterol-dependent membrane raft. How rafts form remains a current topic in membrane biology. We review here evidence of structuring of rafts by the cortical actin cytoskeleton. This includes evidence that the actin cytoskeleton associates with rafts, and that many of the structural and functional properties of rafts require an intact actin cytoskeleton. We discuss the mechanisms of the actin-dependent raft organization, and the properties of the actin cytoskeleton in regulating raft-associated signaling events. We end with a discussion of membrane rafts and the actin cytoskeleton in T cell activation, which function synergistically to initiate the adaptive immune response.
THE MORPHOLOGY OF THE MYRISTICACEAE. I. FLOWERS OF MYRISTICA FRAGRANS AND M. MALABARICA

Floral histology and vascular anatomy of Myristica fragrans Van Houtt. and M. mnalabarica Lam. have been investigated from ser'al sections and specimens cleared in chloro-lacto-phenol. The flowers are unisexual. The androecium is considered to consist of a whorl of laterally concrescent anthers. The bisporangiate anthers are attached by a ridge of tissue to the terminal part of the androphore. In many cases the number of vascular bundles in the androphore is half the number of anthers. The gynoecium consists of a monocarpellate pistil with basal placentation and a single anatropous ovule. Of the many vascular bundles that entr the base of the carpel, two, because of theii position aind because they provide vas'cular traces to the ovule, are designated as ventral bundles. Additional ovular traces are provided by the carpel wall vascular system. These additional traces originate at the top of the locule and descend to the ovule. The similarity between the androecia of these two species and the androecium of the Canellaceae is noted. A STUDY of the morphology of the Canellaceae (Wilson, 1966) led to the conclusion that there
A New Species of Darter from the Ouachita Highlands in Arkansas Related to Percina nasuta (Percidae: Etheostomatinae)

Percina brucethompsoni, the Ouachita Darter, is described as a new species endemic to the Ouachita River system in the Ouachita Highlands of Arkansas. Bruce Thompson first noted the distinctiveness of the new species from the nominal P. nasuta distributed in the White River and Arkansas River basins in his 1977 doctoral dissertation. The new species is delimited through morphological comparisons with P. nasuta and a phylogenetic analysis of the Percina subclade Swainia using two mitochondrial genes. More than 385 specimens were examined for the morphological comparisons, and 54 specimens were sampled for mitochondrial DNA sequencing. Percina brucethompsoni is distinguished from P. nasuta by a shorter snout, a broader and deeper head, six versus seven branchiostegal rays and specific patterns of lateral pigmentation on the side of the body. Phylogenetic analysis of DNA sequences sampled from two regions of the mitochondrial genome indicate that P. brucethompsoni is the sister species of P. nasuta populations in the White River drainage. Neither P. nasuta nor P. phoxocephala are monophyletic in the mitochondrial DNA gene tree. Specimens of P. phoxocephala from the Red River drainage are resolved as the sister lineage of a clade containing all other sampled populations of P. phoxocephala, P. brucethompsoni and P. nasuta. Percina nasuta and P. phoxocephala sampled from the Arkansas River drainage form a clade that is the sister lineage of a clade containing P. brucethompsoni and P. nasuta from the White River drainage.
Assessment and Intervention for English Language Learners with Primary Language Impairment: Research-Based Best Practices.

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are experiencing the exciting challenge of serving increasing numbers of English Language Learners (ELLs) in U.S. schools. When ELLs struggle in school, they may be overreferred for speech-language services. SLPs are routinely expected to differentiate a language difference based on cultural, linguistic, and environmental characteristics from an underlying primary language impairment (PLI). This tutorial is designed to guide researchers and practicing professionals in the selection of research-based best practices for assessment and intervention for ELLs with potential PLI.
Improved ohmic contact on n-type 4H-SiC

Abstract In this paper, we present a study of a Ti/Ni/Al contact on n-type 4H-SiC and compare it with Al/Ni/Al contact. X-ray diffraction analysis was used to identify the intermetallic compound formed at the interface and four-point probe method was employed to determine the specific contact resistivity, ρ c . The contacts were ohmic as-deposited (10 −2 to 10 −3 Ω cm 2 ) . After annealing at 1000°C, the specific contact resistivity was 4.5×10 −5 Ω cm 2 , which is two times lower than that of the Al/Ni/Al contact prepared in the same way.
Thick Description of a Visit Home: In Tribute to Clifford Geertz

SUMMARY A journey home after my parents' deaths combined elements of pilgrimage, mortuary ritual, and ritual of reincorporation. This exercise in thick description (Clifford Geertz 1973) explores the meaning of my tragicomic adventure using Renato Rosaldo's (1989) ideas of ritual as public markers along private paths. When my personal mourning ritual could not fit into any available cultural category, I stumbled, disoriented, into a carnival world of boundary transgression, status inversion, and farce.
Synthesis and polymerization of cyclotetrasilazanes

1,3,5,7-Tetrahydro-1,3,5,7-tetramethylcyclotetrasilazane and 1,3,5,7-tetrahydro-1,2,3,5,6,-7-hexamethylcyclotetrasilazane have been prepared by reaction of 1,3-dichloro-1,3-dihydro-1,3-dimethyldisilazane with ammonia and methylamine, respectively. The polymerization of these cyclotetrasilazanes by the action of catalytic quantities of potassium hydride and the pyrolysis of the resulting polymers in a stream of argon and in a stream of ammonia is reported. Comparisons are made with the polymers obtained by KH treatment of the ammonolysis product of CH3SiHCl2. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gross alpha and beta radioactivities associated with aquatic environments of Upper-East Tennessee impacted by industrial and mining activities

Gross alpha and beta radioactivities present in water, sediments, and macrophytes from several surface water systems in Upper-East Tennessee impacted by industrial and mining concerns were monitored during 1982. Additional samples were collected from surface water systems in the region not impacted by industrial and mining activities in order to measure the levels of natural radionuclides. Concentrations measured in surface waters were significantly lower than concentrations permitted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Sediment sample measurements indicated the presence of high natural levels of radionuclides in several of the surface water systems studied. Possible radiological contamination of sediment was identified below both of the industrial concerns in the region which process radioactive materials. Measurements of gross radioactivities in aquatic vegetation indicated extremely high levels; particularly, in macrophytes present in the surface water system immediately below a nuclear fuel fabrication facility. The levels of radioactivity present in one plant species were almost 11,000 times the levels in the surrounding water for alpha radioactivity and in excess of 7,000 times for beta radioactivity. Significant gamma radioactivity was also observed in smallmouth bass tissues harvested from this surface water system.
HuGE Watch: tracking trends and patterns of published studies of genetic association and human genome epidemiology in near-real time

HuGE Watch: tracking trends and patterns of published studies of genetic association and human genome epidemiology in near-real time
Depression After Coronary Artery Disease Is Associated With Heart Failure

Objectives The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of post-coronary artery disease (CAD) depression diagnosis on heart failure (HF) incidence. Background Depression has been shown to be a risk factor for poor outcomes among CAD patients. However, little is known about the influence of depression on HF development in CAD patients. Methods Patients (n = 13,708) without a diagnosis of HF and depression (International Classification of Diseases-Ninth Revision [ICD-9] codes: 296.2 to 296.36 and 311) and who were not prescribed antidepressant medication (ADM) at the time of CAD diagnosis (≥70% stenosis) were studied. For those with available medication records (n = 7,719), patients subsequently diagnosed with depression were stratified by use of ADM. Patients were followed until HF diagnosis (physician-diagnosed or ICD-9 code: 428) or death. Results were analyzed by Cox proportional hazards regression models. Results A total of 1,377 patients (10.0%) had a post-CAD clinical depression diagnosis. The incidence of HF among those without a post-CAD depression diagnosis was 3.6 per 100 compared with 16.4 per 100 for those with a post-CAD depression diagnosis. Depression was associated with an increased risk for HF incidence (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 1.50, p Conclusions Depression diagnosis was shown to be associated with an increased incidence of HF after CAD diagnosis, regardless of ADM treatment. This finding suggests the need to further study the effect of depression on HF risk among CAD patients.
Bioassay detection of mouse nerve growth factor (mNGF) in the brain of adult mice

Two pools of seven brains each from adult Swiss-Webster mice were homogenized, and supernatants were collected for bioassay. PC-12 cells were placed in a bioassay plate at time zero, at a concentration of 10(4) cells per well, and primed for 48 hours in a medium containing 50 ng/ml of mNGF. The PC-12 cell bioassay for neurite outgrowth was conducted after primed cells were exposed to an NGF-free medium for 24 hours. Suitable controls for serum toxicity and cell viability were established. The sensitivity of the bioassay approximates 100 pg NGF/ml. The results showed 80-100% neurite outgrowth in wells exposed to brain pool supernatant (BPS) alone, and control level outgrowth (3-8%) in wells containing BPS and specific anti-beta-NGF antibody. Therefore, the brains of Swiss-Webster adult mice contain an NGF-like substance which promotes neurite outgrowth in PC-12 cells. The substance probably is NGF itself, since the effect is blocked by specific NGF antiserum.
Cohomology of line bundles on the cotangent bundle of a Grassmannian

We show that certain line bundles on the cotangent bundle of a Grassmannian arising from an anti-dominant character λ have cohomology groups isomorphic to those of a line bundle on the cotangent bundle of the dual Grassmannian arising from the dominant character wo(λ), where ω 0 is the longest element of the Weyl group of SL l+1 (k).
Observation of a stuffed unmodified network in beryllium silicate glasses with multinuclear NMR spectroscopy

The structure of BeO-SiO{sub 2} glasses with up to 20 mol % BeO has been studied with {sup 9}Be and {sup 29}Si NMR spectroscopic techniques. The NMR results are consistent with a glass structure consisting of nanoclusters of corner-shared BeO{sub 4} tetrahedra that occupy the interstices of an unmodified and highly strained corner-shared SiO{sub 4} network. The complete absence of nonbridging oxygens in these glasses contradicts the conventional wisdom of oxide glass structures based on the modified random-network-type models. This structure type may have important implications in understanding and designing glasses with unusual properties.
Exotic grass competition in suppressing native shrubland re-establishment

Disturbance of coastal sage scrub in southern California has led to extensive displacement of native shrubs by exotic annual grasses. The initial conversion from shrubland to exotic grassland is typically associated with disturbance caused by intense grazing, high fire frequency, or mechanical vegetation removal. While native shrubs have been shown to recolonize annual grasslands under some conditions, other annual grasslands are persistent and show no evidence of shrub recolonization. This study examined the mechanisms by which annual grasses may exclude native shrubs and persist after release from disturbance. Grass density was manipulated in experimental plots to achieve a series of prescribed densities. Artemisia californica, a dominant native shrub, was seeded or planted into the plots and responses to the grass density treatments were measured over two growing seasons. A. californica germination, first season growth, and survival were all negatively related to the density of neighboring annual grasses. The most probable mechanism underlying the reduction of first season growth and survival was depletion of soil water by the grasses. The effects of the grasses on A. californica were no longer significant in the second season. The results of this study indicate that Mediterranean annual grasses reduce recruitment and can persist by inhibiting post-disturbance establishment of A. californica from seed. Although succession alone may not return disturbed annual grasslands to their former shrubland composition, the results suggest that restoration can be achieved by using container plantings or grass removal followed by seeding.
Principles and approaches to abate seabird by-catch in longline fisheries

Mortality in longline fisheries is a critical global threat to most albatross and large petrel species. Here we identify key principles and approaches to identify and achieve broad use of effective seabird by-catch avoidance methods. Despite the availability of highly effective and cost-saving seabird avoidance methods, few longline fleets employ them. Given the political context and capacity of management authorities of the majority of longline fisheries, it is critical to identify seabird avoidance strategies that are not only highly effective, but are also economically viable and commercially practical. Adoption of an international performance standard for longline baited hook‐sink rate, and prescribing minimum gear weighting designs that meet this standard that are achievable by all longline fisheries, would be an important step forward towards resolving low use of seabird avoidance methods by vessels, including those in illegal, unregulated and unreported fisheries. Due to differences between fleets, no single seabird avoidance measure is likely to be effective and practical in all longline fisheries. Therefore, testing of seabird avoidance methods in individual fleets is needed to determine efficacy and economic viability. Longline fishers should directly participate in these trials as they have a large repository of knowledge and skills to effectively develop and improve seabird by-catch avoidance techniques, and this provides industry with a sense of ownership for uptake of effective by-catch reduction methods. Establishing protected areas containing seabird colonies and adjacent waters within a nation’s EEZ can be an expedient method to address seabird by-catch. However, establishing high seas marine protected areas to restrict longline fishing in seabird foraging areas, which would require extensive and dynamic boundaries and large buffer zones, may not be a viable short-term solution because of the extensive time anticipated to resolve legal complications with international treaties, to achieve international consensus and political will, and to acquire requisite extensive resources for surveillance and enforcement. Analysis of results of research on seabird avoidance methods reveals that the most reliable comparisons of the efficacy of alternative strategies are from comparing the effectiveness of methods tested in a single experiment. Benefits from standardizing the reporting of seabird by-catch rates to account for seabird abundance are described. To provide the most precise inputs for seabird population models, estimates of seabird mortality in longline fisheries should account for seabird falloff from hooks before hauling, delayed mortality of seabirds caught but freed from gear, and mortality caused by hooks discarded in offal.
Method for comparing selectivities of unlabeled subpopulation-selective ligands: application to muscarinic receptors.

AbstractA method for comparing the selectivities of two unlabeled ligands by simultaneous competition for the binding of a nonselective labeled ligand has been illustrated by computer simulations. Experimental application of this approach indicated that the subpopulations of muscarinic receptors that are distinguished by the use of quaternary antagonists are not related to the M1 and M2 subtypes (based on pirenzepine). However, the quaternary agonist carbachol was found to express both modes of selectivity.The method should be particularly useful in the evaluation of new ligands when labeled selective ligands are unavailable. Further, this method complements experiments that can be carried out with a labeled selective ligand, since it emphasizes the contribution of the sites for which the selective ligand has low affinity.
Sexting as an Intervention: Relationship Satisfaction and Motivation Considerations

The effects of sexting on relationship satisfaction and the conditions under which sexting occurs in adult romantic relationships was the focus of the study. Participants were recruited through social networking websites to participate in an online survey. The sample (n = 86) included 44 participants who were married or living together and 42 participants who were in a dating relationship. Results indicated that couples who scored higher on the consensus scale were more likely to have sexted. Hedonism was found to be a motivator of sexting behaviors. Clinical implications are discussed.
Towards a palladium micro-membrane for the water gas shift reaction: microfabrication approach and hydrogen purification results

A novel palladium-based micromembrane is reported that can be used for hydrogen gas separation in a miniature fuel processor for micro fuel cells. The micromembrane structure is built in a silicon substrate, using standard MEMS microfabrication processes. Four layers, viz. copper, aluminum, spin-on-glass (SOG) and palladium form the composite membrane. Copper, aluminum and SOG layers provide structural support for the palladium film. Copper can act as catalyst in the water gas shift reaction that converts unwanted carbon monoxide gas into hydrogen. Palladium is used to separate hydrogen from other gases present. The micromembrane selectively separates hydrogen from a 20:80 hydrogen:argon gas mixture by weight even at room temperature. The diffusion of hydrogen through palladium is enhanced at higher temperatures and pressures, closely following the predictions from Sievert's law. Future applications of this micromembrane for simultaneous water gas shift reaction and hydrogen separation are discussed.
Numbers, Minds, and Bodies: A Fresh Look at Mind‐Body Dualism

Dans le cadre du dossier de la revue «Philosophical perspectives» (12, 1998, pp. 349-410) consacre a la nature du mental, l'A. revisite le dualisme esprit-corps a partir de la question posee par Frege pourquoi l'hypothese que Jules Cesar soit un nombre est-elle absurde?, c'est-a-dire sous l'angle de la metaphysique des mathematiques. Adoptant la position du dualisme des proprietes, l'A. evalue deux types de dualismes: the full blown dualism et le dualisme de la simple propriete, privilegiant le premier sur le second. Examinant les criteres d'identite a l'oeuvre dans le probleme Jules Cesar (heterogeneite, intelligibilite, qualia), l'A. montre que les memes expliquent la non-identite du physique et du mental, ouvrant la voie a un dualisme lockien plus que cartesien
Introduction to Grand Unified Theories

Grand unified theories (GUTs) postulate that the $$E > M_{GUM} \left( {grandunificationmass} \right).$$
A low power 5 GHz direct digital synthesizer designed in SiGe technology

This paper presents a low power high-speed direct digital synthesizer (DDS), designed in a 47 GHz SiGe technology. The ROM-less DDS includes an 8-bit accumulator and an 8 bit cosine-weighted digital-to-analog converter (DAC) operating at a maximum 5 GHz clock frequency. The DDS core occupies an area of 2 mm/sup 2/ and consumes less than 2 W power with a 3.3 V supply voltage. The 5 GHz MMIC provides a frequency synthesis and modulation means for L-band applications.
On the graph of trees

We consider an “n-graph of trees” whose nodes are the set of trees of fixed order n, and in which two nodes are adjacent if one tree can be derived from the other through a single application of a local edge transformation rule. We derive an exact formula for the length of the shortest path from any node to any “canonical” node in the n-graph of trees. We use this result to derive upper and lower bounds on the diameter of the n-graph of trees. We then propose a coordinate system that is convenient for studying the structure of the n-graph of trees, and in which trees having the same degree sequence are projected onto a single point.
Learning to Select State Machines using Expert Advice on an Autonomous Robot

Hierarchical state machines have proven to be a powerful tool for controlling autonomous robots due to their flexibility and modularity. For most real robot implementations, however, it is often the case that the control hierarchy is hand-coded. As a result, the development process is often time intensive and error prone. In this paper, we explore the use of an experts learning approach, based on Auer and colleagues' Exp3 (1995), to help overcome some of these limitations. In particular, we develop a modified learning algorithm, which we call rExp3, that exploits the structure provided by a control hierarchy by treating each state machine as an 'expert'. Our experiments validate the performance of rExp3 on a real robot performing a task, and demonstrate that rExp3 is able to quickly learn to select the best state machine expert to execute. Through our investigations in these environments, we identify a need for faster learning recovery when the relative performances of experts reorder, such as in response to a discrete environment change. We introduce a modified learning rule to improve the recovery rate in these situations and demonstrate through simulation experiments that rExp3 performs as well or better than Exp3 under such conditions.
Increasing the through-thickness thermal conductivity of carbon fiber polymer-matrix composite by curing pressure increase and filler incorporation

Abstract The low through-thickness thermal conductivity limits heat dissipation from continuous carbon fiber polymer–matrix composites. This conductivity is increased by up to 60% by raising the curing pressure from 0.1 to 2.0 MPa and up to 33% by incorporation of a filler (⩽1.5 vol.%) at the interlaminar interface. The 7-μm-diameter 7-W/m K-thermal-conductivity continuous fiber volume fraction is increased by the curing pressure increase, but is essentially unaffected by filler incorporation. The thermal resistivity is dominated by the lamina resistivity (which is contributed substantially by the intralaminar fiber–fiber interfacial resistivity), with the interlaminar interface thermal resistivity being unexpectedly negligible. The lamina resistivity and intralaminar fiber–fiber interfacial resistivity are decreased by up to 56% by raising the curing pressure and up to 36% by filler incorporation. The curing pressure increase does not affect the effectiveness of 1-mm-long 10-μm-diameter 900–1000-W/m K-thermal-conductivity K-1100 carbon fiber or single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) as fillers for enhancing the conductivity, but hinders the effectiveness of carbon black (CB, low-cost), which is less effective than K-1100 or SWCNT at the higher curing pressure, but is almost as effective as K-1100 and SWCNT at the lower curing pressure. The effectiveness for enhancing the flexural modulus/strength/ductility decreases in the order: SWCNT, CB, K-1100.
Low-Voltage Switchable Microplasma Arrays Generated Using Microwave Resonators

Microplasmas are generated at atmospheric pressure using an array of microstrip resonators and controlled by diode switches. These microplasmas are sustained by continuous microwave power, but can be individually switched on and off by applying +2/-5 VDC to the diodes. Each diode allows the capacitance between the resonator and reference electrode to be switched in or out of the circuit, shifting the resonant frequency and modulating power delivered to the microplasma. We present models of the resonator circuit including plasma loading and demonstrate the circuit's efficacy for the addressable control of microplasmas in a five-resonator array.
Understanding the verbal language and structure of end-user descriptions of data visualizations

Tools exist for people to create visualizations with their data; however, they are often designed for programmers or they restrict less technical people to pre-defined templates. This can make creating novel, custom visualizations difficult for the average person. For example, existing tools typically do not support syntax or interaction techniques that are natural to end users. To explore how to support a more natural production of data visualizations by end users, we conducted an exploratory study to illuminate the structure and content of the language employed by end users when describing data visualizations. We present our findings from the study and discuss their design implications for future visualization languages and toolkits.
Nonantibiotic effects of macrolide antibiotics of the oleandomycin-erythromycin group with special reference to their “steroid-sparing” effects

Certain macrolide antibiotics, such as troleandomycin (TAO), oleandomycin, and erythromycin estolate (Ilosone), can lower the maintenance dose of glucocorticoids required by severely asthmatic patients. These effects were postulated to be caused by an as yet undefined steroid-sparing effect. In this study, TAO in combination with methylprednisolone, when compared with methylprednisolone alone, was demonstrated to significantly increase liver glycogen deposition in adrenalectomized mice, intact mice, and adrenalectomized rats; protect histamine-sensitized mice following beta adrenergic blockade or adrenalectomy; further decrease the steroid-lowered glucose tolerance of mice and significantly increase the plasma corticosteroid levels in rats. TAO alone did not have these effects. TAO plus betamethasone, and erythromycin estolate plus methylprednisolone also increased liver glycogen deposition. However, TAO did not appear to potentiate the effects of hydrocortisone. Erythromycin stearate and to a lesser degree erythromycin ethylsuccinate when combined with methylprednisolone also decreased histamine lethality in mice. Leucomycin and tetracycline did not enhance the effects of methylprednisolone. TAO, alone or with methylprednisolone, did not alter serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) levels in rats. Thus, TAO and some other macrolides did not exert their effects on corticosteroids as antimicrobial agents, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)--like compounds, or quasisteroids, but as steroid-sparing agents by some undefined mechanism.