cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The participation of children in nontherapeutic diabetes research in the US.

Enrollment of children in clinical trials raises many ethical and regulatory issues, particularly when there is no prospect of direct benefit to the participant. The author of this Viewpoint discusses the US federal regulatory guidelines and asks whether they offer appropriate access and protection for all participants in pediatric diabetes research.
Electrical control of magnetic remanent states in a magnetoelectric layered nanostructure

We report experimental results on electrical control of magnetic remanent states (i.e., nanoscale remanent domain patterns) in a magnetoelectric layered nanostructure, Ni nanobar/lead zirconate titanate film. First, with application of different external magnetic fields as a baseline characterization, the magnetic single domain in the Ni nanobar presents time-dependent nanoscale remanent domain patterns which were observed under a magnetic force microscope. Based on this baseline characterization, we further successfully demonstrate that these time-dependent nanoscale magnetic domain patterns could be instantaneously controlled with an application of electric fields due to the converse magnetoelectric effect. The magnetic-field-induced changes are correlated with the electric-field-induced changes.
Expression of neu antigen in normal lactating and prepartum mammary epithelial cells

OBJECTIVE To investigate the expression of the neu protein antigen in non-neoplastic, mammary epithelial cells of prepartum and actively lactating women. METHODS Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sections from breast biopsies obtained from four prepartum and seven postpartum, lactating women were stained for neu antigen with one commercially available monoclonal antibody (Ab 3), one commercially available polyclonal antibody (Ab-1), and another independently prepared polyclonal antibody (21N). Antigen competition experiments were carried out alongside as negative controls, and two strongly neu-positive breast carcinomas were included as positive controls. RESULTS Membranes and cytoplasmic elements of two of the four prepartum and four of the seven lactating specimens stained as strongly or nearly as strongly for neu antigen as did those of the breast carcinomas. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate the expression of neu antigen by mammary epithelial cells just before and during lactation and suggest a possible role for this receptor in the lactational differentiation of the normal female breast.
Bandwidth estimation for ultra-high-speed lithium niobate modulators

The effects of velocity matching, impedance matching, conductor loss, and dielectric loss on the optical bandwidth of an ultra-high-speed lithium niobate modulator are reported. It is shown that both dielectric loss and impedance matching play a key role for velocity-matched high-speed modulators with low conductor loss. The effects of etch depth, buffer thickness, electrode width, and the gap between the electrodes on device performance are also illustrated.
Isolation of the heterofullerene C59N as its dimer (C59N)2

The heterofullerene ion C59N+ is formed efficiently in the gas phase during fast atom bombardment mass spectroscopy of a cluster-opened N-MEM (N-methoxyethoxy methyl) ketolactam. This transformation is shown to occur also in solution in the presence of strong acid, affording biazafullerenyl (C59N)2 in good yield. It is proposed that the azafullerene dimer is formed upon in situ reduction of the highly reactive azafulleronium ion. The isolation and characterization of biazafullerenyl opens a viable route for the preparation of other heterofullerenes in solution.
An Empirically Supported Eating Disorder Prevention Program.

A six-session eating disorder prevention program was completed with three samples: middle school, high school, and college females. The program was intended to promote resiliency factors while mitigating risk factors that had been identified earlier by hierarchical multiple regression analyses and subsequent path analyses from a large epidemiological sample (Phelps, Johnston, & Augustyniak, 1999). Utilizing this etiological model, the program was successful in: (a) facilitating an acknowledgement of the ubiquitous pressures for attainment of the model skeletal look; (b) changing attitudes about standards of beauty; (c) altering the participants' current and future intentional use of pharmaceutical aids or disordered eating behaviors (e.g., fasting, strenuous dieting, purging, excessive exercise) as methods of weight control; (d) building physical self-esteem and personal competence; and (e) reducing body dissatisfaction. To facilitate replication, the article includes a description of the objectives and activities for each of the six sessions. It is recommended that future research efforts focus on testing the long-term efficacy of this program. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Calcium Signaling Mechanisms in Renal Vascular Responses to Vasopressin in Genetic Hypertension

Previous blood flow studies demonstrated that arginine vasopressin (AVP) produces exaggerated renal vasoconstriction in young spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) compared with Wistar-Kyoto control rats (WKY). The purpose of the present study was to determine the role of postreceptor calcium signaling pathways in AVP-induced renal vasoconstriction in vivo. Renal blood flow (RBF) was measured by electromagnetic flowmetry in anesthetized, water-loaded, 8-week-old WKY and SHR pretreated with indomethacin to avoid interactions with prostaglandins. AVP was injected into the renal artery to produce a transient 25% to 30% decrease in RBF without affecting arterial pressure. To achieve similar control levels of vasoconstriction, SHR received a lower dose (2 versus 5 ng). Coadministration of nifedipine with AVP produced dose-dependent inhibition of the AVP-induced renal vasoconstriction. Nifedipine exerted maximum inhibition by blocking 30% to 35% of the peak AVP response, indicating the involvement of dihydropyridine-sensitive voltage-dependent calcium channels. To evaluate intracellular calcium mobilization, 8-(N,N-diethylamino)octyl-3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoate (TMB-8) or heparin was coadministered with AVP. Each agent produced a dose-dependent inhibition of up to 65% of the maximum blood flow change produced by AVP. The degrees of inhibition produced by maximum effective doses of nifedipine and TMB-8 were additive; the combination blocked up to 85% of the response to AVP. These observations indicate that about one third of the AVP-induced constriction of renal resistance vessels is mediated by voltage-dependent L-type calcium channels responsive to the dihydropyridine nifedipine. Approximately two thirds of the change in vascular tone is due to inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-mediated calcium mobilization from intracellular sources sensitive to TMB-8 and heparin. The results suggest that the exaggerated renal vascular reactivity to AVP challenge in SHR is probably not due to a strain difference in postreceptor calcium signal transduction. After AVP receptor stimulation, calcium mobilization and calcium entry signaling pathways participate to similar degrees in WKY and SHR.
Carbon monoxide as a tracer for assessing exposures to particulate matter in wood and gas cookstove households of highland Guatemala.

Kitchen-area 22-h gravimetric PM2.5 and passive diffusion stain-tube carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations were measured in homes with open fire and improved wood cookstoves in two studies. In the first study (Guat-2), which also studied homes with gas cookstoves, three samples were collected per stove condition from each of three test houses. In the second study (Guat-3), one sample was collected per house from 15 open fire and 25 improved-stove houses. CO personal samples were also taken for mother and child in both studies. Spearman correlation coefficients (R) between kitchen-area CO and PM2.5 levels in homes using open fires or impoved wood cookstoves were high ranging from 0.92 (Guat-2) to 0.94 (Guat-3), as were those between the personal samples for mother and child ranging from 0.85 (Guat-3) to 0.96 (Guat-2). In general, the correlations were lower for less-polluted conditions. The study found that CO is a good proxy for PM2.5 in homes using open fires or planchas (improved wood cookstove with chimn...
Intramolecular effects in cellulose mixed benzyl ethers blended with poly(ε-caprolactone)

Tri-O-benzyl cellulose, tri-O-p-fluorobenzyl cellulose, and a corresponding series of cellulose mixed benzyl ethers were synthesized and blended with poly(e-caprolactone) (PCL). Mechanical and thermal analyses indicated that none of the cellulose benzyl ethers of the cellulose mixed benzyl ethers was miscible with PCL. However, there was evidence of a limited degree of compatibility that exhibited a dependence on the substituent ratio, or copolymer composition, of the cellulose mixed benzyl ethers. The weak interactions in these blends were found to be nonspecific, and thus the limited compatibility is thought to arise from intramolecular interactions within the cellulose mixed benzyl ethers. The treatment of cellulose mixed derivatives as copolymers and the potential use of intramolecular effects in cellulose derivative blending is discussed. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Nuclear Data Sheets for A=240

Abstract The available experimental data pertaining to the nuclear structure of nuclei with A=240 are compiled; the results from various decay and reaction measurements are compared and evaluated. Adopted values, comparison with theory, arguments for assignment of J77 and Nilsson quantum numbers, and explanations of adopted decay schemes are given. Inconsistencies and discrepancies in the level schemes are discussed. The adopted level and decay properties are based on data received before August 1970. Data received during June and July have been added in proof.
Association of plasma triglyceride and C-peptide with coronary heart disease in Japanese-American men with a high prevalence of glucose intolerance

In a community-based study of second-generation Japanese-American men known to have a high prevalence of both Type 2 (non-insulin-dependent) diabetes and impaired glucose tolerance, there was a highly significant association of coronary heart disease with glucose intolerance in a study sample of 219 men. Intra-abdominal cross sectional fat area determined by computed tomography was significantly elevated in men with coronary heart disease even after adjustment for glucose intolerance and body mass index (p = 0.026). Other differences that were significantly related to coronary heart disease after adjustment for glucose intolerance were lower high density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (p = 0.001), elevated total triglyceride and very low density lipoprotein triglyceride (p less than 0.001), and elevated fasting insulin and C-peptide levels p = 0.001. When these variables were tested in a stepwise multiple logistic regression model, significant independent associations with coronary heart disease were found only for total triglyceride and fasting C-peptide after adjustment for glucose tolerance status. Variables identified to be associated with coronary heart disease were interpreted as representing or manifesting an insulin resistant state. Thus, insulin resistance may be the underlying risk factor aetiologically linking glucose intolerance with coronary heart disease.
Mcm10 and Cdc45 Cooperate in Origin Activation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Mcm10 has recently been found to play a crucial role in multiple steps of the DNA replication initiation process in eukaryotes. Here, we have examined the role of Mcm10 in assembling initiation factors at a well-characterized yeast replication origin, ARS1. We find that the pre-replication complex (pre-RC) components Cdc6 and Mcm7 associate with ARS1 in the mcm10-1 mutant, suggesting that establishment of the pre-RC is not compromised in this mutant. Association of Cdc45 with ARS1 is reduced in the mcm10-1 mutant, suggesting that Mcm10 is involved in recruiting Cdc45 to the pre-RC. We find that overexpression of either Mcm10-1 or Cdc45 suppresses the growth defect of mcm10-1, and that a physical interaction between Cdc45 and Mcm10 is disrupted in the mcm10-1 mutant. Our results show that interaction between the Mcm10 and Cdc45 proteins facilitates the recruitment of Cdc45 onto the ARS1 origin.
Ray-trace simulation of the random ball test to improve microlens metrology

Interferometer wavefront bias is a complicated function of the optics imperfections in the instrument. An interferometric measurement of the figure error on a micro-refractive lens requires careful calibration to separate instrument bias from errors on the part. A self-calibration method such as the random ball test is effective in accomplishing this task without the need for a high-quality calibration artifact. The test, an averaging technique applied to a series of sphere surface patches, allows for calibration of the interferometric wavefront bias. Recent studies of the random ball test have shown that the calibration is affected by ray-trace errors that depend on the curvature of the ball used for the test and becomes significant in the micro-optic range (radius less than 1 millimeter). A comprehensive ray-trace simulation of the random ball test with modifiable variables was created using MATLAB® and ZEMAX® to allow for further investigation into the relationship between test lens misalignment, curvature, numerical aperture, ball figure error, and interferometer bias. The basis for the model hinges on defining a sphere in terms of a set of spherical harmonic functions, and varying the amplitudes and the number of functions to adjust the figure error on the sphere. The flexible simulation can be fine-tuned and used to model a variety of interferometers with different specifications. Our ultimate goal is to confirm the validity of the RBT, determine an efficient method of implementation, and understand the aspects impacting calibration uncertainty.
Zeros of the derivatives of Faber polynomials associated with a universal covering map

For a compact set E@?C with connected complement, we study asymptotic behavior of normalized zero counting measures {@m"k} of the derivatives of Faber polynomials associated with E. For example if E has empty interior, we prove that {@m"k} converges in the weak-star topology to a probability measure whose support is the boundary of g(D), where g:{|z|>r}@?{~}->C@?@?E is a universal covering map such that g(~)=~ and D is the Dirichlet domain associated with g and centered at ~. Our results are counterparts of those of Kuijlaars and Saff [Asymptotic distribution of the zeros of Faber polynomials, Math. Proc. Cambridge Philos. Soc. 118 (1995) 437-447] on zeros of Faber polynomials.
The Management of Patients with Atrial Fibrillation and Dronedarone’s Place in Therapy

The pharmacologic management of atrial fibrillation (AF) includes rate and rhythm control strategies. Antiarrhythmic agents (eg, amiodarone, flecainide, and propafenone) are limited by serious toxicities (including proarrhythmic effects and pulmonary toxicity), which may lead to a reduced net clinical efficacy of rhythm control strategies. Dronedarone, a new antiarrhythmic agent, is effective in the maintenance of sinus rhythm. Dronedarone has also been shown to reduce ventricular rate and the incidence of hospitalization due to cardiovascular events. Dronedarone is recommended by the 2011 American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association/Heart Rhythm Society guidelines update for the management of AF patients with no or minimal heart disease, coronary artery disease, and hypertension with no left ventricular hypertrophy. Dronedarone is contraindicated in patients with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class IV heart failure or NYHA class II–III heart failure with a recent decompensation requiring hospitalization or referral to a specialized heart failure clinic.
A computer-directed program for smoking cessation treatment

This report describes a computer-directed cigarette smoking cessation program that individualizes nicotine fading schedules for smokers based upon their daily smoking behavior. Previous outcome data from minimal intervention and intensive stop-smoking treatment studies are presented. Preliminary urinary cotinine data also are presented to validate the program's underlying assumption that computer-directed nicotine fading results in across-treatment reductions in biological levels of nicotine.
Echocardiographic Evaluation and Management of Patent Ductus Arteriosus PDA in ELBW Infants <1000 G in the Surfactant Era. 131

Prophylactic indomethacin therapy has been recommended in the management of PDA in ELBW infants. Exogenous surfactant therapy has been reported to alter the presentation and the incidence of PDA in premature infants. Prophylactic surfactant therapy is associated with a higher incidence of clinically symptomatic PDA. We prospectively evaluated ductal patency and degree of left to right ductal shunt by serial echocardiograms in 290 ELBW inborn infants admitted to our NICU. Overall incidence of PDA in ELBW infants was 68%. Indocin was given in 157/198 {79%} infants. PDA ligation was performed in 74 / 198 {37%} infants. Sixty six percent of {193/290} infants received early rescue surfactant therapy for respiratory distress syndrome.Table
Consumer Reactions to Inflation

Introduction, 246. — Inflationary stimuli and consumer perceptions regarding price trends, 248. — Attitudes towards inflation, 251. — Impact on investment choices, 256. — Impact on consumer spending, 257. — Conclusions, 261.
Central projections of the mesencephalic nucleus of the fifth nerve: An autoradiographic study

Projections of cells of the mesencephalic nucleus of the fifth nerve (Mes V) to brainstem structures in the cat were studied by labelling Mes V cells with tritiated leucine. Before the leucine injections were made, however, large kainic acid lesions were produced in the vicinity of Mes V cells because these neurons are resistant to being killed or injured by this neurotoxin. Thus Mes V cells were selectively labelled by the leucine even though they are scattered among many other neurons. Leucine injections near Mes V cells located in the mesencephalon, which are primarily the somata of jaw muscle spindle afferent fibers, produced essentially the same pattern of terminal labelling as injections near a caudally located group of Mew V cells that includes the somata of many tooth mechanoreceptive afferents. Labelling was dense above the trigeminal motor nucleus in the nucleus supratrigeminalis and in the most medial portion of the principal trigeminal sensory nucleus. A scattering of labelled axons and diffuse label was seen along the length of the tract of Probst, which follows the medial border of the descending trigeminal sensory nucleus as far caudally as the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus. Labelling within most of the trigeminal motor nucleus, which is known to receive direct synaptic input from Mes V cells, was very light. The only reasonably dense region of label was confined to a small dorsolateral portion of the motor nucleus. Although Mes V has generally been supposed to be involved with jaw control in a direct, reflexive manner, the extensive projections to nucleus supratrigeminalis and parts of the trigeminal sensory system draw attention to the potential proprioceptive sensory contribution of Mes V.
Hard- and soft-tissue contributions to the esthetics of the posed smile in growing patients seeking orthodontic treatment.

Introduction: The purpose of this investigation was to broaden the understanding of how various skeletal, dental, and soft-tissue relationships are related to the esthetics of the smile in patients with malocclusions before orthodontic treatment. Methods: Images of the posed smile were captured from digital video clips of 60 growing patients (33 girls, 27 boys) seeking orthodontic treatment; they were judged by panels of laypersons and orthodontists. Discriminant analysis identified determinants of the “pleasing smile” from the results of a visual analog scale. Quantitative measurements of the soft and hard tissues were made by using the smile images, cephalometric radiographs, and study models. The esthetics of the smile were correlated with specific skeletal, dental, and soft-tissue structures in the anteroposterior, vertical, and transverse dimensions (Pearson test on nontopographic correlations). Results: The esthetic smile judgments of orthodontists agreed with those of laypersons (r >0.93). The vertical thicknesses of the lips were the most significant component of a pleasant smile, for both the orthodontists (upper lip) and laypersons (lower lip) (discriminant power: 75%). The vertical thickness of the upper lip had a significant positive correlation with the position of the maxillary incisor. Conclusions: Vertical lip thickness proved to be the most influential variable in smile esthetics. The significant relationship of incisor protrusion with the vertical thickness of the vermilion border of the upper lip must be considered when planning orthodontic treatment.
Dahntahn discourses and neighborhood narratives: Communicating the city brand of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

In line with the new trend toward participatory city branding processes, this article offers four theoretical principles and practices that guide a communicative approach to city branding. Specifically, this article (i) theoretically explores how different voices of the city construct public perceptions of a city’s brand images and brand identities, and (ii) offers a conceptual methodology that marketers could use to engage, invite, listen and hermeneutically ‘read’ such discourses and narratives to reveal unique meanings of the city’s key attributes. Drawing on Ricoeur’s narrative theory, Hauser’s view of publics and literature from socio-spatial studies of urban branding, this article argues for a public-oriented understanding of city brands that focuses on the dialectical relationship between narrative and the symbolic meanings that publics attach to shared social spaces. This article supplements current city branding literature by exploring how public discourses and narratives form, enhance and communicate key meanings of the city, and how marketers can identify and integrate such understandings in communicating the city brand. A case study of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania’s discourses and narratives was then explored to unearth key metaphors of the city that marketers could – and what is argued should – be communicated as the city brand.
Intercultural work assignments in global software development preparation for entry and re-entry

Global software is needed to support global business activities for companies whose processes, staffs, markets, and customers are increasingly worldwide in scope. This development creates a need for intercultural work assignments. While some development is done by virtual global teams, co-location of IS professionals in other cultures during the deployment of systems is also common. This research study in progress involves semi-structured interviews with IS managers and developers and a mailed survey of IS personnel, and focuses on the adjustment to and from an intercultural work assignment for IS professionals. It also explores research questions dealing with issues involving: types of preparation of IS professionals for intercultural work assignments and repatriation; individual differences between IS professionals, including preparedness for intercultural work, that predict success in such assignments and repatriation; and the impact of cultural novelty on successful transitions to and from overseas work. The contributions anticipated from the study are an understanding of how the nature of preparation for overseas assignments and individual differences impact the success of co-located IS professionals.
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the management of bile duct stones

Abstract Gallstone disease is a major cause of the need for abdominal surgery, and the most common indication for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Although it is a mature technology, ERCP remains a robust solution for the management of bile duct stones and, in most such cases, the treatment of choice. Although the diagnostic role of ERCP as a diagnostic pancreaticobiliary procedure has declined, its role as an effective therapeutic platform has continued to grow. The ability of ERCP to retain its go-to status in the great majority of bile duct stone cases is the result not only of the continued development of new technology but is also the end effect of continued refinement of existing technologies as well as the successful adaptation and adoption of new techniques.
Investigating peer-to-peer systems for resource sharing within a small group of nodes

We present a study of existing peer-to-peer systems and suggest a preliminary solution for implementing a file-sharing application for use by small trusted groups of users, for example 50-200 nodes. We review existing literature on peer-to-peer systems, and application examples of peer-to-peer architectures. We describe two models. One estimates the expected number of query results in a hybrid data-sharing peer-to-peer system, the other determines file replication needs for ensuring file availability for small numbers of users. We use information obtained from these models to design a file sharing system for small numbers of users.
Inadequate weight gain in overweight and obese pregnant women: what is the effect on fetal growth?

Objective We sought to evaluate inadequate gestational weight gain and fetal growth among overweight and obese women. Study Design We conducted an analysis of prospective singleton term pregnancies in which 1053 overweight and obese women gained >5 kg (14.4 ± 6.2 kg) or 188 who either lost or gained ≤5 kg (1.1 ± 4.4 kg). Birthweight, fat mass, and lean mass were assessed using anthropometry. Small for gestational age (SGA) was defined as ≤10th percentile of a standard US population. Univariable and multivariable analysis evaluated the association between weight change and neonatal morphometry. Results There was no significant difference in age, race, smoking, parity, or gestational age between groups. Weight loss or gain ≤5 kg was associated with SGA, 18/188 (9.6%) vs 51/1053 (4.9%); (adjusted odds ratio, 2.6; 95% confidence interval, 1.4–4.7; P = .003). Neonates of women who lost or gained ≤5 kg had lower birthweight (3258 ± 443 vs 3467 ± 492 g, P P P Conclusion In overweight and obese women weight loss or gain ≤5 kg is associated with increased risk of SGA and decreased neonatal fat mass, lean mass, and head circumference.
Impact of Loop Granularity and Self-Preemption on the Performance of Loop Parallel Applications on a Multiprogrammed Shared-Memory Multiprocessor

This study uses real system measurements to investigate the relationships between loop granularity, parallel loop distribution and barrier wait times, and their impact on the multiprogramming performance of loop parallel applications on the CEDAR shared-memory multiprocessor The overhead due to multiprogramming varies from 5% for applications with large loop granularity to 140% for applications with very fine-gram loops. This is because applications with fine-gram loops have unequal parallel work distribution among the clusters m multiprogrammed environments, while the parallel work in applications with large loop granularity is equally distributed. Moreover, increased barrier wait times of the mam task and wait-for-work times of the helper tasks also contribute to the multi-programming performance degradation of the fine-grain loop parallel applications. We propose and implement a self-preemption technique to address the problem of met eased barrier wait times and wait-for-work times. Using this technique, the overhead due to multiprogramming is reduced by as much as 100%, and speedups of 1.1 to 1.7 are obtained.
Inhibiting surface flashover with magnetic fields

The influence of magnetic fields on dielectric surface flashover is investigated for simple geometries and a variety of parameters (different dielectric materials, presence of ambient gas and plasma). Models based on the saturated secondary electron avalanche predict that magnetic insulation starts at the lowest amplitudes of the magnetic field if the avalanche electrons are lifted off the surface due to the E*B drift, which is in agreement with the experimental results. For practical applications, especially for low Earth orbit conditions, small-volume, low-weight permanent magnets with field amplitudes of 0.1 T are sufficient to increase the flashover voltage by more than 50%. >
A REPRESENTATION OF REAL AND COMPLEX NUMBERS IN QUANTUM THEORY

A quantum theoretic representation of real and complex numbers is described as equivalence classes of Cauchy sequences of quantum states of finite strings of qubits. There are 4 qubit types, each with associated single qubit annihilation creation operators that give the state and location of each qubit type on a 2 dimensional integer lattice. The string states, defined as finite products of creation operators acting on the vacuum state, correspond to complex rational numbers with real and imaginary components. These states span a Fock space F: Arithmetic relations and operations are defined for the string states. Cauchy sequences of these states are defined, and the arithmetic relations and operations lifted to apply to these sequences. Based on these, equivalence classes of these sequences are seen to have the requisite proper- ties of real and complex numbers. The representations have some interesting aspects. Quantum equivalence classes are larger than their corresponding clas- sical classes, but no new classes are created. There exist Cauchy sequences where each state in the sequence is an entangled superposition of the real and imaginary components, yet the sequence is a real number. Except for superpo- sition state coefficients, the construction is done with no reference to the real and complex number base of F:
Biochemical Correlates of Cardiac Hypertrophy V. LABELING OF COLLAGEN, MYOSIN, AND NUCLEAR DNA DURING EXPERIMENTAL MYOCARDIAL HYPERTROPHY IN THE RAT

The incorporation of [2, 3- 3 H]proline into collagen hydroxyproline and into noncollagenous protein was measured during development of cardiac hypertrophy produced by surgical constriction of the ascending aorta in rats. Heart weight increased sharply during the first 4 days after aortic banding and then slowly rose to a plateau. Free intracellular proline concentration remained unaltered 2 days after banding and increased by 38% on the fifth postoperative day. Specific radioactivity of free proline 3 hours after injection of [ 3 H]proline was elevated by 40% on the second postoperative day but was unchanged on the fifth day. Incorporation of [ 3 H]proline into collagen hydroxyproline peaked sharply on the second day after aortic constriction (550% above control) in one experiment, and on the fourth day (330% above control) in another. The peak labeling of noncollagenous protein by [ 3 H]proline (100% over control) was less than that of collagen. To further evaluate the differences in synthetic response of muscle cells and interstitial cells to increased work load, incorporation of radioactive precursors into myosin, collagen, nuclear DNA, and noncollagenous protein were measured simultaneously, after aortic constriction. Collagen labeling was maximal either on day 2 or 4, depending on the degree of hypertrophy. Labeling of myosin and noncollagenous protein reached a plateau on day 4. Incorporation of [ 3 H]thymidine into nuclear DNA peaked on day 7. Thus both muscle cells and connective tissue cells respond independently during cardiac hypertrophy with an increased synthesis of specific proteins.
Transcription of Herpes Simplex Virus Immediate-Early and Early Genes Is Inhibited by Roscovitine, an Inhibitor Specific for Cellular Cyclin-Dependent Kinases

Although herpes simplex virus (HSV) replicates in noncycling as well as cycling cells, including terminally differentiated neurons, it has recently been shown that viral replication requires the activities of cellular cyclin-dependent kinases (cdks) (L. M. Schang, J. Phillips, and P. A. Schaffer, J. Virol. 72:5626–5637, 1998). Since we were unable to isolate HSV mutants resistant to two cdk inhibitors, Olomoucine and Roscovitine (Rosco), we hypothesized that cdks may be required for more than one viral function during HSV replication. In the experiments presented here, we tested this hypothesis by measuring the efficiency of (i) viral replication; (ii) expression of selected immediate-early (IE) (ICP0 and ICP4), early (E) (ICP8 and TK), and late (L) (gC) genes; and (iii) viral DNA synthesis in infected cultures to which Rosco was added after IE or IE and E proteins had already been synthesized. Rosco inhibited HSV replication, transcription of IE and E genes, and viral DNA synthesis when added at 1, 2, or 6 h postinfection or after release from a 6-h cycloheximide block. Transcription of a representative L gene, gC, was also inhibited by Rosco under all conditions examined. We conclude from these studies that cellular cdks are required for transcription of E as well as IE genes. In contrast, steady-state levels of at least one cellular housekeeping gene were not affected by Rosco. The requirement of viral IE and E transcription for cellular cdks may reflect either a requirement for specific cdk-activated cellular and/or viral transcription factors or a more global requirement for cdks in the transcriptional activation of the viral genome.
Rural women's stories of recovery from addiction

In general, much has been written on women's patterns of drug use and the varying factors that impel them into addiction and subsequently into recovery. However, there is a paucity of information on rural Appalachian women and how they make meaning of their recovery processes. Drawing on data collected through informal interviews this article explicates dimensions of the various strategies 25 rural women develop and apply as they shift from using alcohol and/or drugs to their nonuse of such substances through a consideration of their self-change processes: the disgusted self, the aware self, the alternative self, and the stable self. Furthermore, with little access to treatment in this region, data show that participants compensated for that within their own cultural contexts: through the use of family, church, friends, work, school, and self-help institutions such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. I conclude with a discussion of the implications of these strategies for understanding rural ...
Efficient buffering techniques for deflection routing in high speed networks

Deflection routing is a simple, decentralized, and adaptive routing methodology for communication networks. We focus on deflection routing in the Benes network. Since deflection routing forces packets to take multiple paths to the destination, packets may arrive out of sequence. This requires the use of a reassembly window at the destination. We estimate the effect of a finite reassembly window on the performance of deflection routing under both uniform and nonuniform traffic conditions. We also investigate the effect of output buffering at intermediate nodes. Both methods improve performance significantly. We also discuss the performance of deflection routing in networks of different sizes.
Correction to proof that recurrent neural networks can robustly recognize only regular languages

Our earlier article, “The Dynamics of Discrete-Time Computation, with Application to Recurrent Neural Networks and Finite State Machine Extraction” (Casey, 1996), contains a corollary that shows that finite dimensional recurrent neural networks with noise in their state variables that perform algorithmic computations can perform only finite state machine computations. The proof of the corollary is technically incorrect. The problem resulted from the fact that the proof of the theorem on which the corollary is based was more general than the statement of the theorem, and it was the contents of the proof rather than the statement that were used to prove the corollary. In this note, we state the theorem in the necessary generality and then give the corrected proof of the corollary.
On Uniform Sampling of Amplitude Modulated Signals

For a bandpass waveform produced by the amplitude modulation of a low-pass signal, it is shown that the corresponding bandpass signal may be recovered from its samples taken at a uniform rate which is equal to or less than half the sampling rate called for in applying the classical bandpass sampling theorem.
Instantaneous Inhibitory Potential Is Similar to Inhibitory Quotient at Predicting HIV-1 Response to Antiretroviral Therapy

Background. The instantaneous inhibitory potential (IIP), a measure of antiviral activity that incorporates the slope of the dose-response curve, has been proposed as a better predictor of clinical efficacy than the inhibitory quotient (IQ). However, there are no quantitative analyses supporting this hypothesis.Methods. The correlation between differences in log 10 (IQ) (Δlog 10 (IQ)) or differences in IIP (ΔIIP) and the differences in percentage of subjects with plasma human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) RNA levels <50 copies/mL at week 48 was determined for antiretroviral drugs compared in 17 randomized clinical trials. The Δlog 10 (IQ min ), Δlog 10 (IQ max ), ΔIIP min , ΔIIP max , Δlog 10 (IQ 12 ), Δlog 10 (IQ 24 ), ΔIIP 12 , and ΔIIP 24 for comparative drugs were correlated with differences in percentage of subjects with HIV-1 RNA levels <50 copies/mL in each trial. log 10 (IQ 24 ), log 10 (IQ 12 ), IIP 24 , and IIP 12 were calculated using published median effect model slope values and t 1/2 values; r 2 values from linear regression and Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated for each analysis; and correlation coefficients were compared between log 10 (IQ) and IIP.Results.r 2 values were greatest for the Δlog 10 (IQ 12 ) and Δlog 10 (IQ 24 ) comparisons using intention-to-treat outcomes from the 17 trials. Differences in r 2 values between Δlog 10 (IQ 24 ) and ΔIIP 24 and between Δlog 10 (IQ 12 ) and ΔIIP 12 were 0.05 and 0.18, respectively. Differences in Spearman rank correlation coefficients between log 10 (IQ) and IIP at each drug concentration were not significantly different, with the exception of Δlog 10 (IQ max ) and ΔIIP max ; the Δlog 10 (IQ max ) correlation was significantly stronger than the ΔIIP max correlation.Conclusions. IIP was not substantially better than log 10 (IQ) in describing the modest relationship between 10 antiviral activity, pharmacokinetics, and virologic outcomes for antiretroviral drugs.
Optimum transmission rate for low power meteor burst communication systems

The role of transmission bandwith on the information capacity of low-power meteor-burst communication systems has been investigated. An optimum bandwidth theorem is presented, based on an equal contribution to the duty cycle from underdense and overdense trails. Such a criterion implies that the best bandwidth is dependent on other system parameters such as transmitter power, antenna gains and threshold level. For a low-power, low-rate system this optimum bandwidth may actually be quite narrow. Experimental data taken recently on the Bozeman-Palo Alto circuit are used to determine certain constants for a capacity-bandwidth relationship.
The OAI-PMH static repository and static repository gateway

Although the OAI-PMH specification is focused on making it straightforward for data providers to expose metadata, practice shows that in certain significant situations deployment of OAI-PMH conformant repository software remains problematic. In this paper, we report on research aimed at devising solutions to further lower the barrier to make metadata collections harvestable. We provide an in depth description of an approach in which a data provider makes a metadata collection available as an XML file with a specific format -- an OAI Static Repository - which is made OAI-PMH harvestable through the intermediation of software - an OAI Static Repository Gateway - operated by a third party. We describe the properties of both components, and provide insights in our experience with an experimental implementation of a Gateway.
A dynamic migration algorithm for a distributed memory-based file management system

Conventional migration strategies attempt to evenly balance the load across all available server machines. The paper discusses why conventional migration approaches are not necessarily appropriate for distributed memory based file systems and presents an alternative approach that spreads data (possibly unevenly) across as few machines as possible and involves other available machines only as needed. The main advantage of our approach is that it keeps the system minimally distributed, thereby reducing the failure rate among servers, the communication overhead among servers, the time needed to compute data relocation, distributed addressing costs, and the probability of unanticipated migrations (e.g., caused by, and an inconvenience to, returning users).
Multiple object retrieval in image databases using hierarchical segmentation tree

With the rapid growth of information, efficient and robust information retrieval techniques have become increasingly more important. Multiple object retrieval remains challenging due to the complex nature of this problem. The proposed research, unlike most existing works that are designed for single object retrieval or adopt heuristic multiple object matching scheme, aims at contributing to this field through the development of an image retrieval system that adopts a hierarchical region-tree representation of image, and enables effective and efficient multiple object retrieval and automatic discovery of the objects of interest through users' relevance feedback. We believe this is the first systematic attempt to formulate a comprehensive, intelligent, and interactive framework for multiple object retrieval in image databases that makes use of a hierarchical region-tree representation.
Contradictions in the Last Mile: Suicide, Culture, and E-Agriculture in Rural India

Despite its use to exemplify how the world is “flat,” India is in many ways “spiky.” Hyderabad is a prosperous hub of information–communication technology (ICT) while its impoverished agricultural ...
Future directions in semiconductor technology for automotive power electronics

The authors reports on a panel session which was organized to discuss developments in power semiconductor technology suitable for automotive applications. The panel was chaired by the author, and the panel members were Kailash Jain, King Owyang, Miro Glogolja, Larry Latham, and Bill Dunn. The topics covered were device breakdown voltage specification, the best devices for low and high voltages, discrete vs. monolithic chip partitioning, the possibility of a generic chip, and the possible evolution of application-specific ICs (ASIC). A summary of the general conclusions made by the panel are provided. >
Migration Inhibitory Factor Mediates Angiogenesis via Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase and Phosphatidylinositol Kinase

In this study, we investigated the effects of migration inhibitory factor (rhMIF) on angiogenesis-related signaling cascades and apoptosis in human endothelial cells (ECs). We show that in vitro rhMIF induces migration and tube formation in Matrigel of human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HMVECs), with potency comparable to that of basic fibroblast growth factor. In vivo, rhMIF induces angiogenesis in Matrigel plugs and in the corneal bioassay. Using panels of relatively specific kinase inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotides, and dominant-negative mutants, we show that mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) are critical for MIF-dependent HMVEC migration, whereas Src and p38 kinases are nonessential. Moreover, we demonstrate that rhMIF induces time-dependent increases in phosphorylation levels of MEK1/2, Erk1/2, and Elk-1, as well as PI3K, and its effector kinase, Akt, in HMVECs. Studies with dominant-negative mutants and antisense oligonucleotides corroborate these effects in HMVECs. Furthermore, we demonstrate that rhMIF-induced angiogenesis in the rat cornea in vivo and in the ex vivo endothelial cell morphogenesis assay is also MAPK- and PI3K-dependent. Our findings support a role for MIF as an angiogenic factor and provide a rationale for the use of MIF as a therapeutic inducer of neovascularization in the development of collateral circulation in coronary artery disease.
Designing Animals: Ethical Issues for Genetic Engineers

Two general philosophical approaches to ethical issues in property rights are described. Instrumental approaches take property rights to be means for achieving goals such as social efficiency or economic growth. Labor approaches take property rights to be fundamental human rights that protect liberty or that assign ownership of goods based on criteria of desert. A thought experiment is used to illustrate the relevance of these theories to intellectual property. Alternative strategies for application of ethical theory to animal biotechnology are surveyed. The choice of an approach determines a burden of proof that must be met before property claims can be ethically sanctioned, but the question of which approach should be applied to animal biotechnology remains open. Ethical issues raised by unwanted consequences of biotechnology and religious objections to gene transfer are briefly summarized with emphasis on how these issues have influenced public debate on animal patents.
Up Close: Center for Materials Science at Los Alamos National Laboratory

Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) has extensive and diverse activities and programs in materials science and engineering. The Center for Materials Science (CMS) was established to promote scientific collaboration and scientific excellence in materials research and engineering throughout the Laboratory and with individuals and institutions outside the Laboratory. The Center's objective is to enhance the Laboratory's materials science and technology contributions to the nation's defense, energy, and scientific missions. Consistent with its main objective, Laboratory resources supply the principal funding for CMS programs. Additional funding for individual scientific research programs conducted by CMS members comes directly from outside sources. To carry out its responsibilities, CMS has accepted four demanding missions: 1. Build a core group of qualified and established materials scientists and solid state physicists. 2. Promote and support top-quality, interdisciplinary materials research programs at Los Alamos. 3. Strengthen the interactions of materials scientists at Los Alamos with the external materials science community. 4. Establish and maintain modern materials research facilities in a readily accessible, central location. The core group of CMS members has a broad charter to advance materials science and technology in directions expected to have long-term impact on LANL's mission. The acting director is Don M. Parkin. In addition to the director, six members presently constitute the CMS. James L. Smith heads an experimental effort in superconductivity.
Minimum description length model selection in associative learning

Two principles of information theory — maximum entropy and minimum description length — motivate a computational model of associative learning that explains assignment of credit, response timing, and the parametric invariances. The maximum entropy principle gives rise to two distributions — the exponential and the evitable Gaussian — which naturally lend themselves to inference involving each of the two fundamental classes of predictors — enduring states and point events. These distributions are the ‘atoms’ from which more complex representations are built. The representation that is ‘learned’ is determined by the principle of minimum-description-length. In this theory, learning is a synonym for data compression: The representation of its experience that the animal learns is the representation that best allows the data of experience to be compressed.