cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A decade post WHI, menopausal hormone therapy comes full circle – need for independent commission

The sudden decision by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health to terminate the estrogen-progestogen therapy arm of the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) Study a decade ago now begs two questions:--has women's health after menopause been helped or harmed as a result of the findings and the way in which they were presented, and, if harmed, what needs to be done to put things right? Time and multiple reviews of specific publications from the WHI lead to the serious question whether a project designed to be of benefit to women's health has boomeranged, and instead may have resulted in significant impairment to both the quality of life and physical health of postmenopausal women. It is therefore urgent to confirm whether this is so and whether corrective action needs be taken to prevent even more harm. There are two obvious and immediate actions to be called for: (1) The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) needs to revisit the black-box warnings on postmenopausal hormones. Specifically, there needs to be a separation of the advisories for estrogen alone from estrogen and progestogen combined usage. (2) Justification is given to call for an independent commission to scrutinize every major WHI paper to determine whether the data justified the conclusions drawn. Women progressing through and beyond menopause in the next decade need to be spared the unnecessary harm that may have been inflicted on their sisters of the previous decade.
Hartree-Fock calculation for disordered polymers

Abstract A method is presented for treating the eigenspectrum of a finite size disordered polymer within a nearly SCF LCAO HF theory. Variants of the negative factor counting and inverse iteration techniques are presented for obtaining the eigenspectrum and eigenvectors. Model polymers and polyacetylene are specifically considered.
Mortality and readmission of the elderly one year after hospitalization for pneumonia.

Background and aims: Pneumonia, which is common among the elderly, is associated with untoward consequences. We sought, therefore, to describe the incidence of death and readmission, and to determine predictors of these variables during the year subsequent to index hospitalization. Methods: This study involved the follow-up of 153 patients surviving an index hospitalization for pneumonia. Death and readmission were documented, and the relationship of selected variables with these outcomes was determined. Results: Ninety-six (62.6%) of the patients had died or were readmitted. Only a count of comorbidities was correlated significantly with death, readmission, and either death or readmission. Using regression analysis, death alone was predicted by multiple variables. Grip strength and comorbidity counts correctly classified 75.2% of patients relative to that outcome. Conclusions: Untoward outcomes are likely among patients surviving acute hos-pitalization for pneumonia. These outcomes are related to variables that can be targeted in secondary prevention efforts.
Gene Expression Profiling of Seizure Disorders

Seizure disorders affect a significant percentage of the population, and researchers worldwide continue to work toward a better understanding of what initiates, propagates, and results from aberrant and excessive neuronal excitation. During the past two decades, one aspect of this research effort has been to describe the effects of seizure activity upon neuronal gene expression, with hopes of identifying the molecular mechanisms that underlie subsequent changes in cell function and survival. Here we review this body of work from the perspective of how these gene profiling efforts have evolved, starting with one-by-one analyses of specific gene targets to the more recent use of DNA microarrays to survey literally thousands of genes simultaneously. With regard to the latter, we present some of our own work that suggests that molecular mechanisms contributing to normal brain development are reiterated during seizure-induced network reorganization.
Caspase-7 ablation modulates UPR, reprograms TRAF2-JNK apoptosis and protects T17M rhodopsin mice from severe retinal degeneration

The UPR is activated in the mouse retina expressing misfolded T17M rhodopsin (RHO) during autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (ADRP) progression. Therefore, the goal of this study is to validate the UPR-induced caspase-7 as a new therapeutic target that modulates the UPR, reduces the level of apoptosis and protects the ADRP retina from retinal degeneration and light-induced damage. Mice were analyzed using ERG, SD-OCT and histology to determine the role of caspase-7 ablation. The results of these experiments demonstrate the significant preservation of photoreceptors and their function in T17M RHO CASP-7 retinas from P30 to P90 compared with control mice. These mice were also protected from the light-induced decline in the ERG responses and apoptosis. The RNA and protein analyses of T17M RHO+Csp7-siRNA, Tn+Csp7-siRNA 661W cells and T17M RHO CASP-7 retinas revealed that caspase-7 ablation reprograms the UPR and reduces JNK-induced apoptosis. This reduction is believed to occur through the downregulation of the mTOR and Hif1a proteins. In addition, decline in activated PARP1 was detected in T17M RHO CASP-7 retina. Altogether, our findings indicate that the targeting of caspase-7 in T17M RHO mice could be a feasible therapeutic strategy for advanced stages of ADRP.
The dynamic behavior of continuous polymerization reactors —V. Experimental investigation of limit-cycle behavior for vinyl acetate polymerization

The dynamic behavior of the solution polymerization of vinyl acetate in a continuous stirred tank reactor is investigated. Experimental evidence of widespread limit-cycle behavior as predicted in an earlier analysis is presented, and provides the first conclusive evidence of such behavior. Experiments were conducted at various values of residence time and coolant temperature. Sustained oscillations were observed under a great variety of operating conditions. Dynamic simulations using a priori kinetic parameters were found to be in good agreement with the experimental results. Slight adjustments of an ambient heat loss term were necessary to account for experimental variation, but otherwise no parameter manipulation was needed. The sensitivity and bifurcation behavior of the reactor is discussed in detail and demonstrated experimentally.
Repair of Esophageal Perforation Due to Anterior Cervical Spine Instrumentation

The complication of esophageal perforation after anterior cervical spine fusion for cervical spine disease is rare but potentially fatal. We describe two cases of esophageal perforation found by esophagoscopic visualization. In one patient, primary closure could not be achieved, and a submental island flap was used to repair the defect. In the second patient, primary closure was achieved and a pectoralis major flap was interposed between the closure and the residual instrumentation. Postoperatively, both patients had no evidence of persistent perforation and had resolution of preoperative symptoms.
Covalent Bonding in Pressure-Induced Fish Protein Gels

Surimi pastes were gelled by pressure, incubation at 25°C, cooking, or their combination. Differential scanning calorimetry and solubility measurements indicated that myosin denaturation and disulfide bond formation occurred during pressure-induced gelation. Time of pressure treatment had little effect on gel fracture properties. Nondisulfide covalent polymerization of myosin did not appreciably occur during pressure-induced gelation, but was prevalent in gels incubated at 25°C, even when such incubation followed pressure treatment. That combination treatment increased the stress value of cooked gels more than six times, indicating synergy of pressure with the endogenous enzyme transglutaminase, thought to be responsible for gelation of surimi pastes at 25°C.
New results of the high-gain harmonic generation free-electron laser experiment.

Abstract We report on the experimental investigation of high-gain harmonic generation carried out at the Accelerator Test Facility at Brookhaven National Laboratory. A seed CO 2 laser at a wavelength of 10.6 μm was used to generate FEL output at a 5.3-μm wavelength. The duration of the output pulse was measured using a second-harmonic intensity autocorrelator, and the coherence length was measured using an interferometer. We also measured the energy distribution of the electron beam after it exited the second undulator, observing behavior consistent with that is expected at saturation. The intensity of the harmonic components of the output at 2.65 and 1.77 μm was determined relative to that of the 5.3-μm fundamental. Finally, using a corrector magnet upstream of the radiator, steering effects on the trajectories of the electron and light beams were studied.
Ductal Carcinoma in Situ of the Breast: MR Imaging Findings with Histopathologic Correlation

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a noninvasive malignancy that is commonly encountered at routine breast imaging. It may be a primary tumor or may be seen in association with other focal higher-grade tumors. Early detection is important because of the large proportion of DCIS that can progress to invasive carcinoma. The extent of DCIS involvement is frequently underestimated at mammography, which can reliably help detect only calcified DCIS; consequently, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging evaluation can alter the course of treatment. Seven biopsy-proved cases of DCIS were evaluated with T2-weighted MR imaging sequences, as well as T1-weighted sequences performed both before and after contrast material administration. The signal intensity and enhancement patterns of the tumors were analyzed, and the findings were correlated with the relevant underlying histopathologic features. Common enhancement patterns of DCIS include clumped linear-ductal enhancement, clumped focal enhancement, and masslike enhancement. The most common enhancement distribution pattern is segmental, followed by focal, diffuse, linear-ductal, and regional patterns. At T2-weighted MR imaging, DCIS is typically isointense relative to breast parenchyma; less commonly, it is hypointense or hyperintense. The use of MR imaging in the evaluation of DCIS is controversial, and many questions remain with regard to treatment and management. However, breast MR imaging can be extremely useful in the preoperative diagnosis and evaluation of DCIS when used in conjunction with other imaging modalities.
Change and Contrariety in Aristotle

P* ... all things that come to be come to be out of, and all things that pass away pass into their contraries or (xac) intermediates [between their contraries]. And the intermediates [arise] from the contraries. For example the colors come out of white and black (XeVxoO xai ReXavog). And so all of the things which come to be by nature are contraries or things which come to be out of contraries. (Physics 1 5 188b21-26. cp Metaphysics I 1055bl6-17, De Caelo I 3, 270al4ff, Generation and Corruption I 7, 323b28-324a9)
Results of coronary artery endarterectomy and coronary artery bypass grafting for diffuse coronary artery disease.

Background Coronary artery endarterectomy with coronary artery bypass grafting for diffuse coronary artery disease has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality. We evaluated our institutional experience to redefine the role of coronary endarterectomy for diffuse coronary artery disease. Methods From 1985 to 2002 isolated coronary artery endarterectomy with coronary artery bypass grafting was performed in 1,478 consecutive patients. The short-term outcomes were compared with concurrent series of conventional coronary artery bypass graft surgery, and risk factors for adverse outcomes after coronary endarterectomy were identified. Results Patients in the coronary endarterectomy group were of higher risk with increased incidence of comorbidities and three-vessel coronary disease. The operative mortality (3.2% versus control 2.2%; p = 0.03) and the incidence of major postoperative morbidity (not significant) were comparable between the groups. Prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass time, recent acute myocardial infarction, redo surgery, and poor ventricular function were important predictors of in-hospital mortality. Vessel endarterectomized, technique of endarterectomy, and cardiopulmonary bypass versus off-pump technique did not alter results. At long-term follow-up, 5-year and 10-year survivals were 83% ± 5%, and 74% ± 3%, respectively, and freedom from angina at 5 and 10 years was 75% ± 5%, and 69% ± 4%, respectively, with 96% of survivors in New York Heart Association class II. Conclusions In selected patients with diffuse coronary artery disease, coronary endarterectomy can be used as a tool for myocardial revascularization. The operative mortality and major morbidity were comparable or similar to coronary artery bypass grafting, and short-term and long-term results were favorable.
Childhood aggression and unconventionality: Impact on later academic achievement, drug use, and workforce involvement.

The interrelation of childhood aggression, unconventionality, academic orientation, work involvement, and drug use was explored. Data were obtained for the research participants when they were 5 to 10 years old. Follow-up interviews were conducted when the participants were 15 to 20 years old and again at 21 to 26 years old. Latent variable causal analysis was used, and the findings reveal long-term relations between early childhood aggression and adolescent problem behavior in the academic and occupational areas. The findings also indicate that adolescent drug use generates an early involvement with adult role behaviors, such as work at the expense of further education. Implications of the findings for prevention are discussed.
An “Invitation to Struggle”? The Use of Force Against “Legislatively Vulnerable” American Presidents

Recently, international relations scholars have posited that, though economically unsuccessful American presidents may have incentives to divert via international conflict, their potential adversaries are also privy to their plight and may seek to avoid fighting them at such junctures. However, this “strategic conflict avoidance” (SCA) perspective offers relatively few insights concerning the impact of a potentially important source of leadership weakness in the American case: legislative opposition to presidential policy. Indeed, scholars seem uncertain about whether general legislative opposition actually drives American presidents to divert or leads them to refrain from international ventures. This article seeks to develop and test a general theory concerning the targeting of presidents who face legislative opposition to their foreign policies. The article predicts that economic distress increases “conflict avoidance” on the part of potential adversaries, whereas overt legislative opposition to presidential foreign policy decreases the utility of diversion and creates transparent elite divisions that invite targeting. Negative binomial generalized estimating equations (GEE) models of the U.S. foreign policy experience from 1949 to 2001 support these predictions, in that the U.S. is less likely to be the target of incident initiation by other states when the economic misery index increases, but is more likely to be targeted when members of Congress voice displeasure with presidential foreign policy. Further analyses show that these findings are generally strongest during periods of high American inflation, in the context of enduring rivalries, and during the Cold War.
Zinc oxide nanostructures for electrochemical cortisol biosensing

In this paper, we report on fabrication of a label free, highly sensitive and selective electrochemical cortisol immunosensors using one dimensional (1D) ZnO nanorods (ZnO-NRs) and two dimensional nanoflakes (ZnO-NFs) as immobilizing matrix. The synthesized ZnO nanostructures (NSs) were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), selective area diffraction (SAED) and photoluminescence spectra (PL) which showed that both ZnO-NRs and ZnO-NFs are single crystalline and oriented in [0001] direction. Anti-cortisol antibody (Anti-Cab) are used as primary capture antibodies to detect cortisol using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The charge transfer resistance increases linearly with increase in cortisol concentration and exhibits a sensitivity of 3.078 KΩ. M-1 for ZnO-NRs and 540 Ω. M -1 for ZnO-NFs. The developed ZnO-NSs based immunosensor is capable of detecting cortisol at 1 pM. The observed sensing parameters are in physiological range. The developed sensors can be integrated with microfluidic system and miniaturized potentiostat to detect cortisol at point-of-care.
Interleukin‐6 undergoes transition from growth inhibitor associated with neuroendocrine differentiation to stimulator accompanied by androgen receptor activation during LNCaP prostate cancer cell progression

BACKGROUND Interleukin-6 (IL-6) has been implicated in the modulation of growth and differentiation in many cancers, and is associated with poor prognosis in renal cell carcinoma, ovarian cancer, lymphoma, melanoma, and prostate cancer. The effects of IL-6 on the growth of LNCaP human prostate cancer cells are puzzling with some groups showing growth stimulation, while others showing growth inhibition. In this study, we investigated the discrepancy of the effects of IL-6 on prostate cancer cells. METHODS Series of lower and higher passages of LNCaP cell sublines were generated by a long-term exposure of LNCaP cells in IL-6-containing culture media. The characteristics of these cell sublines were analyzed and the potential roles of neuroendocrine (NE) differentiation and androgen receptor (AR) activation were examined. RESULTS We demonstrated that while short-term treatment of IL-6 inhibits LNCaP cell growth by a paracrine mechanism associated with NE differentiation, long-term treatment of IL-6 promotes LNCaP cell growth by an autocrine mechanism accompanied by an activation of AR signaling. In the lower passages (less than 28 passages) of LNCaP cells treated with IL-6, the cell growth was severely retarded which is associated with NE-like morphology and increased expression of NE markers such as neuronspecific enolase (NSE) and chromgranin A (ChgA), and loss of AR expression. However, in the higher passages (higher than 42 passages) of LNCaP cells treated with IL-6, cells started to express endogenous IL-6. At the same time, NE characteristics were disappeared, AR signaling was activated and cells growth was accelerated. Knocking down the AR activation of the higher passages of LNCaP cells abolished autocrine IL-6-induced growth stimulation. CONCLUSIONS These studies suggest that acquisition of endogenous IL-6 production after prolong exposure of prostate cancer cells to IL-6 may contribute to an autocrine cell growth stimulation. Furthermore, the transition of IL-6 from a paracrine growth inhibitor to an autocrine growth stimulator suggests that IL-6 plays an important role during prostate cancer progression, possibly androgen-independent progression. Prostate 67: 764–773, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Ozone Air-Broadening Coefficients In The 9ÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂµm Region

Air-broadening coefficients and line strengths are reported for selected ozone lines in the 8.8 to 10 um spectral region. These parameters were obtained from a least squares fit of the Voigt line shape to experimental ozone absorption spectra obtained with a tunable diode laser. Analysis of 11 lines in the vi and 18 lines in the v3 band suggest a transition-dependent coefficient although no definitive relationship was identified. The average air-broadening coefficient for the vi and v3 ozone lines is 0.077 and 0.083 cm-1/atm, respectively. The measured line strengths are typically 10% to a factor of two larger than those given in the Air Force Geophysics Laboratory compilation.
Impaired insulin release after exposure of pancreatic islets to autooxidizing dihydroxyfumarate.

Autooxidizing dihydroxyfumarate (DHF) is a known generator of superoxide anions and hydroxyl free radicals. Isolated rat pancreatic islets were exposed for 5 min to 0.4 mg/ml DHF in an oxygenated buffer solution. As a result of this exposure, the islets exhibited a 60% reduction in glucose-stimulated insulin release. The presence of superoxide dismutase, catalase, or diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid, a metal chelator, during the exposure period protected the islets from the effects of autooxidizing DHF. This suggests that superoxide anions, hydrogen peroxide, and, ultimately, hydroxyl free radicals play a role in the insulin inhibitory effects caused by DHF exposure. Glucose (5 mg/ml), but not galactose, was also capable of protecting islets from DHF. The effects of DHF exposure on isolated islets appear to be similar to those previously reported for alloxan and lend support to the concept that hydroxyl free radicals generated during the oxidation of certain compounds can alter endocrine cell function.
Observing temporal patterns of vertical flux through streambed sediments using time-series analysis of temperature records

Summary Rates of water exchange between surface water and groundwater (SW–GW) can be highly variable over time due to temporal changes in streambed hydraulic conductivity, storm events, and oscillation of stage due to natural and regulated river flow. There are few effective field methods available to make continuous measurements of SW–GW exchange rates with the temporal resolution required in many field applications. Here, controlled laboratory experiments were used to explore the accuracy of analytical solutions to the one-dimensional heat transport model for capturing temporal variability of flux through porous media from propagation of a periodic temperature signal to depth. Column experiments were used to generate one-dimensional flow of water and heat through saturated sand with a quasi-sinusoidal temperature oscillation at the upstream boundary. Measured flux rates through the column were compared to modeled flux rates derived using the computer model VFLUX and the amplitude ratio between filtered temperature records from two depths in the column. Imposed temporal changes in water flux through the column were designed to replicate observed patterns of flux in the field, derived using the same methodology. Field observations of temporal changes in flux were made over multiple days during a large-scale storm event and diurnally during seasonal baseflow recession. Temporal changes in flux that occur gradually over days, sub-daily, and instantaneously in time can be accurately measured using the one-dimensional heat transport model, although those temporal changes may be slightly smoothed over time. Filtering methods effectively isolate the time-variable amplitude and phase of the periodic temperature signal, effectively eliminating artificial temporal flux patterns otherwise imposed by perturbations of the temperature signal, which result from typical weather patterns during field investigations. Although previous studies have indicated that sub-cycle information from the heat transport model is not reliable, this laboratory experiment shows that the sub-cycle information is real and sub-cycle changes in flux can be observed using heat transport modeling. One-dimensional heat transport modeling provides an easy-to-implement, cost effective, reliable field tool for making continuous observations of SW–GW exchange through time, which may be particularly useful for monitoring exchange rates during storms and other conditions that create temporal change in hydraulic gradient across the streambed interface or change in streambed hydraulic conductivity.
Relationships between climate, radial growth and wood properties of mature loblolly pine in Hawaii and a northern and southern site in the southeastern United States

Production rates of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) in favorable exotic environments indicate that full biological expression of growth potential in loblolly pine has not yet been attained in its native range. In previous work, high productivity in a loblolly pine plantation in Hawaii (HI) was hypothesized to be related to a more favorable climate conducive to year round carbon gain. To better understand the role of climate in limiting loblolly pine growth, relationships between radial growth and climate were examined in mature loblolly pine grown on two sites representing the opposite latitudinal ends of its ecological niche, Mississippi (MS) and North Carolina (NC), and on a third site in Hawaii (HI) representing a more favorable exotic environment. Raw ring widths were detrended and chronologies built for each site. At the northernmost site, ring width index (RWI) was positively correlated to February, April and July temperatures, annual mean temperature of the current and previous year, and annual maximum temperature. In MS trees, the only significant correlation between growth and climate was a positive correlation between RWI and November temperature. Growth at the MS site was likely more impacted by frequent hurricanes. In HI trees, no significant correlations between growth and temperature were observed but RWI was significantly related to precipitation during the dry season, which occurred from May–September. Potential anatomical alterations in the earlywood and latewood transition zones and timing of earlywood and latewood formation were indicated and may account for low ring specific gravity and percent latewood in HI trees. The moderate temperatures at the HI site likely supported high productivity but sensitivity to precipitation in HI trees indicates that reductions in water availability may effect loblolly pine growth even under more moderate temperatures when evaporative demand is low.
A sequential regression algorithm for recursive filters

A sequential regression (s.e.r.) algorithm is derived for recursive or infinite impulse response (i.i.r.) adaptive filters. Results pertaining to using the algorithm in a system-identification experiment are also included.
Endoplasmic reticulum-associated calcium regulates taxol-induced apoptosis in breast cancer cells.

Abstract #4163 Background: The body eliminates unhealthy cells through programmed cell-suicide called apoptosis. Calcium (Ca2+), one of the key regulators of cell survival, is also important in regulating apoptosis. Although the chemotherapeutic agent Taxol employs apoptosis to induce cell death in breast cancer treatment, the exact mechanism of how it induces apoptosis and the role of Ca2+ in this process remain unclear. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER), the main intracellular Ca2+ store, is newly-recognized as an important gateway in apoptosis, and possibly provides a target for Taxol. Objective/Hypothesis: Putting these facts together, our hypothesis is that ER Ca2+ changes induced by Taxol determine breast cancer cell susceptibility to apoptosis and thus play a key role in ER-associated apoptosis. Therefore, this study investigated whether Ca2+ changes, especially associated with the ER, were generated and related to this apoptotic event. Study Design and Methods: For this study, we used the MDA-MB-468 breast cancer cell line. The dynamic Ca2+ changes induced by Taxol were determined in living breast cancer cells by two methods: free cytosolic Ca2+ changes were measured using Fluo4-AM Ca2+ dye; and ER Ca2+ changes were measured by a novel Ca2+ cameleon, D1ER. After inducing and evaluating Taxol-induced apoptosis in this breast cancer cell line, the effects of different Ca2+ interfering agents on the apoptotic event were tested to determine whether Taxol-induced apoptosis is Ca2+ dependent. Results: Taxol has a direct effect on Ca2+ homeostasis. Taxol induces a rapid ER Ca2+ release and results in a transient increase in cytosolic Ca2+ levels. A gradual ER Ca2+ depletion developed and contributed to the final sustained cytosolic Ca2+ increase. Interfering with these Ca2+ changes inhibited the Taxol-induced apoptosis, indicating that ER Ca2+ promotes Taxol-induced apoptosis. Relevance: It is critical to understand the process through which the widely used anticancer agent Taxol induces apoptosis. This research addressed the question of whether intracellular Ca2+ changes play a critical or marginal role in mediating Taxol-induced apoptosis. Elucidating the role of calcium in this process will not only help to clarify the mechanism of Taxol, but also aid in more effective application of Taxol in breast cancer treatment. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 4163.
The temperature response of cultured almond cells derived from tree sources with and without non-infectious bud failure. II. Heat shock

Abstract Suspension-cultured almond cells derived from non-infectious bud failure affected plant sources (high BF-potential) retained greater viability at temperatures of 40°C and 45°C as compared to cells derived from non-affected plant sources (low BF-potential). Cells from a high BF-potential source synthesized protein at a lower rate at 20°C and 25°C than did cells from low BF-potential source. A significantly higher free proline level was found associated with cells from the high BF-potential source. Both high and low BF-potential cells synthesized at least 11 new proteins in response to an upward temperature shift to 40°C.
The reusable reentry satellite - A mission and system description and operational concept

A significant need exists for a system which will provide the life science experimenter with relatively frequent and inexpensive access to the space environment. To fulfill this need, a project and spacecraft system described as the Reusable Reentry Satellite (RRS) or LifeSat has been proposed by NASA. The RRS provides a relatively inexpensive method of access to space for extended periods of time and eventual intact recovery of the experiments on the earth's surface. The payload support requirements, flight operations concept are reviewed and the mission and system of the RRS are described in detail.
Measurement of the n = 2 density operator for hydrogen atoms produced by passing protons through thin carbon targets

Measurements of the $n=2$ density operator and the probability for $n=2$ production are reported for hydrogen atoms produced by passing 20 to 1000 keV protons through thin carbon targets. Measurements of the dependence of $2p$ production on the number of protons in the incident projectile and on the time this proton cluster spends within the foil are also discussed.
Does endogenous fatty acid metabolism allow cancer cells to sense hypoxia and mediate hypoxic vasodilatation? Characterization of a novel molecular connection between fatty acid synthase (FAS) and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α)-related expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in cancer cells overexpressing Her-2/neu oncogene

Her-2/neu (erbB-2) oncogene overexpression is associated with increased tumor progression and metastasis. Fatty acid synthase (FAS), the key lipogenic enzyme responsible for the endogenous synthesis of fatty acids, has been shown to be one of the genes regulated by Her-2/neu at the level of transcription, translation, and biosynthetic activity. Interestingly, we recently established that both pharmacological inhibition of FAS activity and silencing of FAS gene expression specifically suppress Her-2/neu oncoprotein expression and tyrosine-kinase activity in breast and ovarian Her-2/neu overexpressors. Unraveling the functional organization of this novel bi-directional molecular connection between Her-2/neu and FAS-dependent neoplastic lipogenesis is a major challenge that the field is only beginning to take on. Considering that Her-2/neu overexpression correlates with increased expression of the hypoxia inducible factor-1alpha (HIF-1alpha), which, in a mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-dependent manner, plays a key role in the expression of several genes including cytokines such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), we hypothesized that FAS blockade should result in a concomitant down-regulation of VEGF. Unexpectedly, the specific inhibition of the de novo fatty acid synthesis with the small-molecule inhibitor of FAS activity C75 resulted in a dramatic dose-dependent enhancement (up to 500% increase) of VEGF secretion in Her-2/neu-overexpressing SK-Br3, BT-474, and SKOV3 cancer cells. Concurrently, FAS blockade drastically activated MAPK and promoted further a prominent accumulation of HIF-1alpha in Her-2/neu overexpressors. Moreover, U0126-induced inhibition of MAPK activity completely abolished C75-induced up-regulation of HIF-1alpha expression and VEGF secretion, whereas it did not modulate C75-induced down-regulation of Her-2/neu oncogene. Importantly, RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated silencing of the FAS gene recapitulated C75's effects by up-regulating VEGF secretion, MAPK activation and HIF-1alpha expression. Therefore, it appears that perturbation of cancer-associated endogenous fatty metabolism triggers a "hypoxia-like" (oxygen-independent) condition that actively rescues Her-2/neu-dependent MAPK --> HIP-1alpha --> VEGF cascade. It is tempting to suggest that an intact FAS-catalyzed endogenous fatty acid metabolism is a necessary metabolic adaptation to support the enhanced ability of Her-2/neu-overexpressing cancer cells to survive cellular hypoxia in a HIF-alpha-dependent manner.
Bed sharing and the sudden infant death syndrome

Abstract Objective : To determine whether infants who died of the sudden infant death syndrome routinely shared their parents9 bed more commonly than control infants. Design : Case-control study. Setting : Southern California. Subjects : 200 white, African-American, Latin American, and Asian infants who died and 200 living controls, matched by birth hospital, date of birth, sex, and race. Main outcome measures : Routine bedding (for example, crib, cradle), day and night time sleeping arrangement 9for example, alone or sharing a bed); for cases only, sleeping arrangement at death. Differences in bed sharing practices among races. Results : Of the infants who died of the syndrome, 45 (22.4%) were sharing a bed. Daytime bed sharing was more common in African-American (P Conclusions : Although there was a significant difference between bed sharing among African-American and Latin American parents compared with white parents, there was no significant relation between routine bed sharing and the sudden infant death syndrome.
Fermat's principle and nonlinear traveltime tomography.

Fermat's principle shows that a definite convex set of feasible slownessmodels, depending only on the traveltime data, exists for the fully nonlineartraveltime inversion problem. In a new iterative reconstruction algorithm, theminimum number of nonfeasible ray paths is used as a figure of merit todetermine the optimum size of the model correction at each step. The numericalresults show that the new algorithm is robust, stable, and produces very goodreconstructions even for high contrast materials where standard methods tend todiverge.
Children, place and identity: nation and locality in middle childhood

Children, place and identity: nation and locality in middle childhood, by Jonathan Scourfiled, Bella Dicks, Mark Drakeford and Andrew Davies, Routledge, 2006, 175 pp., £24.99 (paperback), ISBN0-415...
Social interactions among female rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) during the nonbreeding season: Responses to the introduction of males.

When rhesus monkeys are observed in social groups during the breeding season, increases in interfemale aggression coincide with midcycle increases in sexual activity between males and females. However, some investigators have suggested that both aggressive and affiliative interactions between females are influenced by the presence or absence of males, irrespective of menstrual cycle stage. In the present study, social interactions among members of a captive group of rhesus females were measured during the non-breeding season in response to the introduction of rhesus males. Ovariectomized rhesus females (estrogen-treated or untreated) served as stimulus controls. Tests with males were characterized by significantly decreased interfemale proximity and grooming and significantly increased aggression from that seen in tests with stimulus females or in the absence of stimulus animals. Only interfemale proximity declined significantly during stimulus female tests, but results suggest that this may merely reflect a decline in this behavior that occurs across the course of the day. Estrogen treatment did not alter either the aggressive or affiliative behavior of stimulus females or group female response to stimulus females. The possibility is discussed that changes in interfemale interactions during tests with males reflect female interest in interacting with the male, particularly under social conditions that may limit such interactions.
Two errors in the ‘Allais Impossibility Theorem’

In his so-called ‘Allais Impossibility Theorem’, Allais (1988) asserts that the technique of ‘generalized expected utility analysis’ from Machina (1982) is invalid, on the ground that its key tool, the ‘local utility function’, cannot be well-defined for preferences over finite-outcome lotteries. This paper presents a brief description of the local utility function and a summary of Allais' argument, and points out two separate errors in the latter. The first error consists of believing that two local utility functions should be affinely equivalent even when their outcome variables differ by a nonlinear transformation. The second error consists of an incorrect derivation of the local utility function, resulting from extending a moment representation function beyond its valid domain, and/or invoking the chain rule at a point where this function is not differentiable.
A Simultaneous Equations Model of the Demand for and Production of Local Public Services: the Case of Education

In this article I specify a simultaneous equations model of the demand for and production of educational outputs, estimate the model for 46 Los Angeles County school districts, and use the model to simulate the effects of a county-wide property tax base sharing policy. The price elasticity estimates for educational outputs are far more inelastic than previous estimates. My income elasticity estimates are mildly inelastic and similar to previous estimates. I demonstrate that previous studies, which estimated reduced-form expenditure functions, were misspecified and did not estimate the demand elasticities for local public services. I also demonstrate that an areawide tax base sharing plan assists the poorest school districts but also benefits middle- to upper-middle-income low-property tax base districts and harms lower- to middle-income high-property tax base districts.
Strength of the null singularity inside black holes

We study analytically the Cauchy horizon singularity inside spherically symmetric charged black holes, coupled to a spherical, self-gravitating, minimally coupled, massless scalar field. We show that all causal geodesics terminate at the Cauchy horizon at a null singularity, which is weak according to the Tipler classification. The singularity is also deformationally weak in the sense of Ori. Our results are valid at arbitrary points along the null singularity, in particular at late retarded times, when nonlinear effects are crucial.
Histological preparation of bone to study ingrowth into implanted materials

Porous metals and ceramics were implanted in bonein vivo and retrieved at intervals for histological evaluation of tissue ingrowth. Recovered implants with surrounding tissues were fixed, dehydrated and embedded in a low-viscosity epoxy resin embedding medium. The embedded samples were cut into thick sections with a diamond saw, cemented to petrographic slides, and hand-ground to approximately 75 μm. They were lightly stained with methylene blue and Alizarin Red S, which provided great contrast between the bone and soft tissues, and clearly demonstrated the formation of calcified bone within porous metal and ceramic implants.
Analysis of data processing methods for pulsed thermal imaging characterisation of delaminations

Pulsed thermal imaging is a commonly used infrared thermal imaging technology for non-destructive evaluation of engineering materials. It provides a complete interrogation and, therefore, a potentially complete quantification of the thermal properties and structures of a test material. The quantity and quality of material parameters that can be extracted depend mostly on the data processing methods. Although thermal property measurement is one important area for thermal imaging, this study is focused on the methods used mainly for subsurface flaw detections, including pulsed phase thermography, principal component thermography, derivative and a recently developed thermal tomography method. The characteristics of these methods were analysed and compared based on theoretical solutions and experimental data from a ceramic matrix composite plate with simulated delaminations. It was identified that although all methods have similar detection sensitivity and accuracy for delamination characterisation, there is ...
Heisenberg exchange in dilute heavy rare earth alloys

Abstract Residual resistivities of one atomic percent heavy rare earths Gd to Lu dissolved in thorium have shown a strong dependence on solute atomic volume. When similar resistivity measurements of Mackintosh and Smidt for Gd to Er dissolved in Lu were adjusted for the atomic volume effect they showed S ( S + 1) dependence.
Rigging elections with violence

In most developing countries even today, political parties spend a substantial fraction of their resources in attracting voters through ideological exhortation as well as force. In this paper we present a model of political contest between two parties that compete in two distinct arenas though the goal of the contest in both arenas is the same-to garner more political support. In the first, which we call “ideological”, the contest involves no use of force. In the second, which we call “conflictual”, party activists use violence either to force ideological supporters of the competing party to vote in their favor or restrain them from voting. We show that a party with lower initial political support will resort to more political violence, ceteris paribus and as the fraction of undecided voters goes up, elections will tend to be less conflictual. We also show that if there is an incumbency advantage, then the resources devoted to creating political unrest increase in equilibrium and political competition is more violent. We also provide some historic and journalistic evidence that supports our results.
Renal size in Fabry's disease.

Measurement of renal size in patients with Fabry’s disease — angiokeratoma corporis diffusum, universale — shows renal enlargement in the third decade, followed by a decrease in kidney size in the fourth and fifth decades. These changes are apparent before the deterioration of renal function signals impending renal failure.
Two-stage repair for proximal hypospadias: a reappraisal.

Great advances have been made in surgery for the correction of hypospadias. Proximal hypospadias remains the greatest challenge, but, despite many innovations and much progress, surgery can fail. Many authorities have introduced single-stage techniques, which have the purported advantage of correcting the defect with minimal hospitalization and family inconvenience. However, the wider published experience with these approaches would suggest that the ideal single-stage procedure has yet to be devised. A substantial number of children undergoing a single-stage procedure will have to undergo further surgery. A small, but irreducible number of patients will be rendered hypospadias “cripples.” A number of these children will be dissatisfied as adults because of cosmetic or functional deficiencies. A two-stage approach for correction of proximal hypospadias and severe chordee remains the most credible and reliable solution for many of these patients. Pediatric urologists should maintain familiarity with these techniques and continue to advocate them for a select group of patients.
Social Determinants of Preventive Service Utilization: How Religion Influences the Use of Cholesterol Screening in Older Adults

Utilization of preventive services may be influenced by social factors, such as religion, that can create barriers or facilitate use. The purpose of this study is to determine how religious beliefs...
Polymer/clay nanocomposites as VOC barrier materials and coatings

Abstract The transport properties of select volatile organic compounds were measured in polyurethane/clay nanocomposite barrier membranes as a function of clay content. The nanocomposites were fabricated by two different processing methods involving stirring and sonication of the clay particles. The concentration of Cloisite ® 30B in the nanocomposite was varied from 0 to 50 wt%. Characterization of membrane transport properties was achieved via a gravimetric sorption method. Material-phase diffusivity coefficients ( D ) decreased with increasing Cloisite ® concentration, while changes in the material/VOC partition coefficients (K) depended on the molecular interactions of the VOCs with the membrane material.
TESTOSTERONE PREPARATIONS WITH PROLONGED ACTIVITY12

IT IS well known that the duration of response elicited by a given dose of hormone depends on many factors, among which are the vehicle used, introduction of chemical radicals and the physical state of the preparation (Deansley and Parkes, 1937; Sklow, 1943; Miescher, Gasche and Frey, 1944; Carlinfanti, D’Alo and Cutalo, 1949; Lens, Overbeek and Polderman, 1949; Hamburger, 1949). The experiments reported here concern studies on the “depot action” of testosterone and tes osteronepropionate. They were designed to test, under standardized conditions, the effects that the various factors mentioned above would have in modifying the response of the seminal vesicles and ventral prostate lobes to male sex hormone. The results show that 1) an emulsion and a macrocrystalline suspension of testosterone propionate are about equally effective in eliciting a marked and prolonged stimulation of sex accessory glands, 2) testosterone and testosterone propionate adsorbed on aluminum phosphate are less effective in these re...
BProc: the Beowulf distributed process space

The Beowulf Distributed Process Space (BProc) is a set of Linux kernel modifications which provides a single system image and process migration facilities for processes running in a Beowulf style cluster. With BProc, all the processes running in a cluster are visible on the cluster front end machine and are controllable via existing UNIX process control mechanisms. Process creation is done on the front end machine and the processes are placed on the nodes where they will run with BProc's process migration mechanism.These two features combined greatly simplify creating and cleaning up parallel jobs as well as removing the necessity of a user login to remote nodes in the cluster. Removing the need for user logins drastically reduces the mount of software required on cluster nodes.Job startup with BProc's process migration mechanism is faster than the traditional method of logging into a node and starting the process with rsh. BProc does not affect file or network I/O of processes running on remote nodes so the vast majority of MPI applications will experience no performance loss as a result of being managed by BProc.