cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Maternal endocrine extirpations do not abolish maternal coordination of the fetal circadian clock

The maternal circadian system coordinates the timing of the fetal circadian clock to the prevailing light-dark cycle. The role of various maternal endocrine organs as the source of a coordinating signal was investigated in rats. Either metabolic activity of the fetal suprachiasmatic nuclei or pineal N-acetyltransferase activity in 10-day-old pups was used to monitor the fetal circadian clock. Extirpations of the maternal pituitary, adrenals, thyroid-parathyroids, ovaries, or pineal (each performed in separate experiments) did not abolish maternal coordination. (Endocrinology 119: 1763–1767, 1986)
Quasi-resistive regimes in magnetically confined plasmas

Abstract Theoretical and experimental arguments are given in support of the existence of regimes, in high electron temperature magnetically confined plasmas, where the ratio of the electrical resistivity to the classical resistivity is a decreasing function of the streaming parameter ξ ∗ but is still collisional in nature, until a critical value of ξ C is reached where it is controlled by current driven microinstabilities (slide-away regime). The parameter ξ ∗ is defined as the ratio of the circulating electron drift velocity to the thermal velocity.
Inducible expression of kallikrein in renal tubular cells protects mice against spontaneous lupus nephritis.

Objective To ascertain whether engineered expression of kallikreins within the kidneys, using an inducible Cre/loxP system, can ameliorate murine lupus nephritis. Methods In mice with a lupus-prone genetic background, we engineered the expression of tamoxifen-inducible Cre recombinase under the control of a kidney-specific promoter whose activation initiates murine kallikrein-1 expression within the kidneys. These transgenic mice were injected with either tamoxifen or vehicle at age 2 months and then were monitored for 8 months for kallikrein expression and disease. Results Elevated expression of kallikrein was detected in the kidney and urine of tamoxifen-injected mice but not in controls. At age 10 months, all vehicle-injected mice developed severe lupus nephritis, as evidenced by increased proteinuria (mean ± SD 13.43 ± 5.65 mg/24 hours), increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine levels (39.86 ± 13.45 mg/dl and 15.23 ± 6.89 mg/dl, respectively), and severe renal pathology. In contrast, the tamoxifen-injected mice showed significantly reduced proteinuria (6.6 ± 4.12 mg/24 hours), decreased BUN and serum creatinine levels (15.71 ± 8.17 mg/dl and 6.64 ± 3.39 mg/dl, respectively), and milder renal pathology. Tamoxifen-induced up-regulation of renal kallikrein expression increased nitric oxide production and dampened renal superoxide production and inflammatory cell infiltration, alluding to some of the pathways through which kallikreins may be operating within the kidneys. Conclusion Local expression of kallikreins within the kidney has the capacity to dampen lupus nephritis, possibly by modulating inflammation and oxidative stress.
Wave diffraction in a two-fluid system

Wave diffraction due to a step change in bottom topography is considered for the case of two superimposed fluids of different, but constant, densities. The interface lies below the upper surface of the step. Shallow water theory is shown to be applicable only if the ratio of a non-dimensional frequency parameter to the departure of the density ratio from unity is sufficiently small. An approximate solution of the full equations, obtained by a method applied by Miles (1967) to surface wave diffraction, yields results limited only by the condition that the frequency parameter be small.
Fine-scale spatial heterogeneity and seed size determine early seedling survival in a desert perennial shrub (Ericameria nauseosa: Asteraceae)

In heterogenous landscapes, seeds settle in some microsites more readily than others, independently of whether those microsites are suitable for germination and subsequent growth, and survival of seedlings. Wild seeds and seedlings of Ericameria nauseosa var. oreophila in the sand-dune ecosystem near Mono Lake, California show both concordance and conflict in where seeds are retained and where seedlings flourish. Using a field experiment, we followed performance of seeds and seedlings (i.e., the rate of germination and successful emergence, initial seedling size, seedling growth and survival over first growing season), by planting seeds of known sizes in pre-identified microsites (windward and lee aspects of interspaces between shrubs, under shrub canopies, and under snag canopies, respectively). Heavier seeds were more likely to germinate and emerge successfully and resulted in initially larger seedlings than lighter seeds. These initially larger seedlings subsequently remained larger over the growing season and lived longer than initially smaller seedlings. Independent of seed and initial seedling size, seedlings that germinated under the canopy of adult shrubs grew larger and survived longer than seedlings that germinated in interspaces (open space with little or no vegetation) or under snags (dead adult shrubs). Seedlings grown under the canopy of adult shrubs experienced significantly less solar radiation and wind-deposited sand than seedlings grown in interspace or snag microsites. Sand burial more than 1 cm was lethal for seedlings. The two variables of seed size and microsite type had by far greater impact on eventual growth and survival of seedlings than did aspect, and the effects of the former two variables were independent of each other. This study amplifies the body of work on E. nauseosa at this site demonstrating that the earliest events in the life history of this long-lived perennial shrub appear to persist through time despite the harsh and variable environment.
Non-coordinate regulation of endogenous epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) subunit expression at the apical membrane of A6 cells in response to various transporting conditions.

Abstract In many epithelial tissues in the body (e.g. kidney distal nephron, colon, airways) the rate of Na+ reabsorption is governed by the activity of the epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC). ENaC activity in turn is regulated by a number of factors including hormones, physiological conditions, and other ion channels. To begin to understand the mechanisms by which ENaC is regulated, we have examined the trafficking and turnover of ENaC subunits in A6 cells, a polarized, hormonally responsive Xenopus kidney cell line. As previously observed by others, the half-life of newly synthesized ENaC subunits was universally short (∼2 h). However, the half-lives of α- and γ-ENaC subunits that reached the apical cell surface were considerably longer (t > 24 h), whereas intriguingly, the half-life of cell surface β-ENaC was only approximately 6 h. We then examined the effects of various modulators of sodium transport on cell surface levels of individual ENaC subunits. Up-regulation of ENaC-mediated sodium conductance by overnight treatment with aldosterone or by short term incubation with vasopressin dramatically increased cell surface levels of β-ENaC without affecting α- or γ-ENaC levels. Conversely, treatment with brefeldin A selectively decreased the amount of β-ENaC at the apical membrane. Short term treatment with aldosterone or insulin had no effect on cell surface amounts of any subunits. Subcellular fractionation revealed a selective loss of β-ENaC from early endosomal pools in response to vasopressin. Our data suggest the possibility that trafficking and turnover of individual ENaC subunits at the apical membrane of A6 cells is non-coordinately regulated. The selective trafficking of β-ENaC may provide a mechanism for regulating sodium conductance in response to physiological stimuli.
Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase–Activating Polypeptide (PACAP) in the Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Gonadal Axis A Review of the Literature

Pituitary adenylate cyclase–activating polypeptide (PACAP), an ancient molecule highly preserved across species, has been classified as a member of the secretin/glucagon/vasoactive intestinal peptide/growth hormone-releasing hormone polypeptide family. PACAP was first identified as a hypothalamic-releasing factor; nevertheless, it has subsequently been determined to have widespread distribution and function, including expression in the pituitary, gonads, placenta, central and peripheral nervous systems, intestinal tract, and adrenal gland. Consistent with its widespread distribution, PACAP has been found to exert pleiotropic effects. Although first described over 20 years ago, only relatively recently has substantial attention turned to evaluating PACAP’s role in the reproductive system. This review will focus on our current understanding of the expression pattern and function of PACAP in the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis.
Spirituality Then and Now: Our Journey Through Higher Education as Women of Faith

This chapter reflects on the shared journey of two African American women pursuing Ph.D.s, with a spiritual commitment to walk by faith. Afrocentric philosophy, communicative practices, and spiritually grounded pedagogical approaches to teaching and learning are examined in their transition from graduate students to university professors.
Mentoring beginning primary teachers for exemplary teaching practices

Abstract In exploring the potential for mentoring to support novice teachers’ use of effective teaching practices, we conducted a grounded theory analysis about change potential. Themes emerging from cross-case analysis of survey, interview, and observation data from six beginning primary teachers in the US and their mentors revealed factors, other than type of mentoring programme, that related to beginning teachers’ success in improving classroom practices. More effective beginning teachers’ mentors had more experience as mentors and were more effective teachers than other mentors. More effective beginning teachers communicated more with mentors, more accurately self-reported use of effective teaching practices, and were more open to mentoring.
Studying organizational attitudes from individual and organizational frames of reference

Abstract Attitude data were gathered on 307 managerial personnel from a large midwestern manufacturing company. The respondents represented different functional divisions, levels in the hierarchy, and departments in the organization. Discriminant analyses were done for groups formed on the basis of these organizational structure variables and the individual difference characteristics of age, tenure, and years of education. Group differences were highly significant for all analyses and multidimensional in all but one solution. The estimated power of the organizational structure groupings to account for individual attitude differences was 60, .43, .82, respectively. The power for the individual characteristic groupings ranged from 40 to .37. In addition to the apparent differences in the power of the structure versus individual characteristic solutions, the primary interpretation of group differences varied in the two sets of analyses. Groups formed on individual characteristics differed mainly in terms of job satisfaction. The differences between the organizational structure groups were more complex involving evaluations of line-staff relations, production management, and supportive services. Job satisfaction variables accounted for less of the between-group differences in the structure analyses.
Thermal radiative properties of a smooth air-water interface☆

Abstract Thermal radiative properties for an air-water interface were calculated by considering the interface to be smooth and the water to be at uniform temperature. Monochromatic hemispherical and total normal reflectance, monochromatic and total normal transmittance, Planck mean and Rosseland mean absorption coefficients were evaluated. The wavelength interval covered by the calculations was between 0.2 and 200 μ. Other thermal radiative properties, such as emittance and absorptance, were related to the above properties, and a comparison with available results shows favorable agreement. The use of these properties in the area of remote sensing and global energy balance makes the data essential for identifying the most effective region of the spectrum and for explaining some of the naturally occurring processes where radiative transfer plays an important role.
Alterations in the Localization of F-Actin, Fibronectin, and Thrombospondin Occur Prior to Neoplastic Transformation in Rat Tracheal Epithelial Cells

Abstract Structural glycoproteins and cytoskeletal proteins play a major role in the regulation of cellular organization and function. Changes in the structure and function of these proteins are involved in the cascade of events which lead to neoplastic transformation. We evaluated RNA levels, protein localization, and organization of selected proteins in an in vitro model system of respiratory carcinogenesis to examine alterations in cell architecture. Localization of fibronectin (Fn), thrombospondin (Tsp), and F-actin was examined in (1) primary rat tracheal epithelial (RTE) cells; (2) spontaneously immortalized nonneoplastic cells (SPOC-1); and (3) neoplastic cells (EGV5T) derived from tumors arising following transplantation of an N -methyl-N′-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine-transformed RTE cell line into nude mice. Proteins were stained with fluorescein-labeled antibodies or phalloidin compound and analysis was performed with a confocal laser scanning microscope. Primary RTE cells display organized F-actin stress fibers, perinuclear Fn and Tsp, and pericellular Fn in fibrillar arrays. In larger colonies, Tsp occurs between cells and occasionally in fibrillar arrays. SPOC-1 cells, unlike primary RTE cells and neoplastic EGV5T cells, seldom form junctions and exhibit few cell surface extensions. F-actin stress fibers are reduced in these immortalized cells. F-actin in SPOC-1 cells occurs in the perinuclear region, scattered diffusely throughout the cell and in punctate adhesions. Fn and Tsp are localized to the perinuclear region with Fn staining more intensely. EGV5T neoplastic cells also display a dramatic loss of stress fibers and F-actin is concentrated mainly near the cell periphery. Perinuclear staining of Fn and Tsp occurs in some cells within the colony. Levels of Tsp RNA and Fn RNA and protein are significantly reduced in both cell lines compared to primary RTE cells. We conclude that structural protein disruptions are early events in the transformation of these respiratory epithelial cells.
Alterations in sympathetic innervation of thymus and spleen in aged mice

Age is associated with reduced immune reactivity, contributing to increased rates of infectious disease and cancer in old age. We have begun to assess the potential for sympathetic nervous system involvement in age-related immune dysfunction by characterizing sympathetic noradrenergic (NA) innervation in lymphoid organs in old animals. In the present study noradrenergic innervation of spleen and thymus was examined histologically and neurochemically in 2-, 12- and 24-month old BALB/c mice. In the thymus of 2-month old animals, NA nerve fibers were found in the subcapsular, cortical, and cortico-medullary regions associated with blood vessels and septa; occasional branches from these nerve fibers entered the parenchyma. With increasing age and thymic involution, NA nerve fibers increased in density; by 24 months of age, dense plexuses were compacted among septa and blood vessels, and numerous linear, varicose nerve fibers were observed branching into the parenchyma. Thymic norepinephrine (NE) concentration (per mg wet weight) increased approximately 4-fold in 12-month old animals and 15-fold in 24-month old animals. Taking the reduced thymus weight into account, total thymic NE at 12- and 24-month of age was equivalent to total thymic NE at 2-month of age, suggesting that NA innervation is maintained as the thymus involutes. In the spleen from 2-month old animals, NA innervation entered the white pulp with the central artery to innervate the periarteriolar lymphatic sheath and the marginal zone. At 12-month of age, histologically and neurochemically there was no change in splenic NA innervation. By 24-month of age, NE was increased significantly, independent of changes in spleen weight. Histologically, increased catecholamine-containing fibers were apparent at 24-month of age, particularly in the parenchyma surrounding the central artery. The alterations in sympathetic NA innervation of lymphoid organs with age suggest that the sympathetic nervous system and NE may play a role in age-associated immune dysregulation. Alternatively, the changes in NA innervation may be secondary to functional changes within the immune system.
A New F Approximation for the Pillai—Bartlett Trace Under H 0

Abstract Pillai suggested two approximations for the Pillai-Bartlett trace statistic in the null case. The first one matches one moment of a β1 random variable, and corresponds to an F random variable, and the second matches four moments in the Pearson system. Although intuitively appealing and widely used in current statistical packages, the first lacks accuracy even with moderate sample size. The second matches two moment ratios in the Pearson system and provides much greater accuracy. Two new approximations match two moments of a β1 random variable, and hence correspond to an F random variable, yet achieve most of the accuracy of Pillai's second approximation. The second of the two new approximations provides the best combination of logical properties and numerical accuracy.
The effect of cholinergic manipulations on the analgesic response to cobrotoxin in mice.

Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of cobrotoxin (CT), a neurotoxin isolated from the venom of Naja naja atra, produced an antinociceptive response in mice as measured by the tail-flick test. This effect of CT was blocked by systemic administration of atropine, but not by methylatropine or naloxone. Depletion of central acetylcholine (ACh) by hemicholinium-3 (HC-3) blocked the antinociceptive action of cobrotoxin. These results suggest that central cholinergic neurons are important for the mediation of the antinociceptive properties of cobrotoxin.
Decreased feeding in rats following hepatic-portal infusion of glucagon.

Abstract Male rats received a single hepatic-portal injection of glucagon following mild food deprivation. Cumulative food intake measured after 0.5–20 hr was decreased by the hormone. The absence of a concomitant decrease in water intake suggested a specific effect of glucagon on feeding. This specificity was further demonstrated by the use of an hepatic-portal infusion of glucagon as the unconditioned stimulus for the formation of a conditioned taste aversion which failed to produce avoidance of a novel taste. In contrast, pairing the taste with an intraperitoneal injection of lithium chloride did produce a learned taste aversion. Thus, the decreased feeding following infusion of a low concentration of pancreatic glucagon through a chronic hepatic-portal cannula cannot be attributed to visceral malaise. The relatively specific effect of this hormone on short-term feeding probably results from the activation of hepatic glycogenolysis, with the long-term effect on feeding possibly due to gluconeogenesis.
Tracer disequilibrium in CO2 compartments during NaH14CO3 infusion.

The failure of labeled CO2 to equilibrate between extracellular and intracellular CO2 compartments may influence the accuracy of substrate oxidation measurements during infusion of carbon-labeled tracers because it may generate errors in estimate of fixation of labeled CO2 derived from control experiments in which labeled bicarbonate is infused. In this study, normal volunteers received a 14-hour overnight primed continuous infusion of NaH14CO3. Over the last 4 hours of the study, steady-state conditions were achieved in the specific activities (SAs) of expired 14CO2 and plasma urea, which was used as a probe for hepatic intracellular CO2 SA. Plasma urea SA was approximately 17% lower than expired CO2 SA (46.4 +/- 5.6 v 56.8 +/- 3.9 disintegrations per minute.mumol-1, P < .02). Fractional 14CO2 recovery was 94.8% +/- 0.8%; when corrected for failure to equilibrate with intracellular CO2, fractional recovery was 89.5% +/- 1.9%. These data indicate that compartmentalization of CO2 may occur in humans. The duration of our experiments, required because of the long half-life of plasma urea, may have minimized the apparent magnitude of compartmentalization. Furthermore, it is possible that compartmentalization in extrahepatic tissues could be of either lesser or greater magnitude than that which we observed in liver. Whether this phenomenon contributes to incomplete recovery of 14CO2 during NaH14CO3 infusion cannot be determined from our results. Additional studies using different experimental approaches will be required to better measure CO2 compartmentalization.
Random-Walk Simulation of Gradient-Transfer Processes Applied to Dispersion of Stack Emission from Coal-Fired Power Plants

Abstract A numerical solution to the three-dimensional advection-diffusion equation is developed and applied to the dispersion of power plant stack contaminants throughout the boundary layer. The method employs Lagrangian marker particles undergoing variable random-walk displacements to simulate a gradient-transfer process. The size of the particle displacements is directly related to the magnitude of the vertical and horizontal diffusivities which can be any functions of space and time. Using recent atmospheric turbulence data, empirical expressions for the eddy diffusivities are derived for the entire boundary layer in terms of common meteorologic parameters. Reasonable agreement is found between the numerical predictions and actual fly-ash data collected in the vicinity of a 500 MW coal-fired power station. The random-walk technique has a number of distinct advantages over both finite-difference and particle-in-a-cell methods. It is mathematically simple, computationally fast, and requires only modest ...
New Spectrum of the Hydrogen Molecule

IN a recent note (Physical Review, May 1, 1930) I stated that I had observed a new system of absorption bands in hydrogen. Since, because of its primitiveness, the hydrogen molecule is of great interest to physicists and chemists, I hasten to make these data available to other workers in this field. Although at present the data are incomplete, I hope they are accurate enough to help investigators to establish another link between the ultra-violet and the visible spectra of hydrogen and help clear up more of the ultra-violet many-line spectrum.
Correlation of Current and Sea Level in the Eastern Equatorial Pacific

Abstract Upper-ocean current and temperature records from neat 0°, 110°W are compared with Galapagos Island sea level measurements (0°3′S, 91°28′W) for the period March 1980 to July 1981. Low-frequency (periods greater than 30 days) near surface zonal currents (20 and 50 m) were well correlated with local wind, but deeper currents (100 and 150 m) and sea level were not. Response to the local wind was studied in terms of linear dynamics. Periods where zonal acceleration was in phase with zonal wind stress were found; however, overall these two series were uncorrelated. The direct relation of low-frequency wind stress and surface current (rather than acceleration) suggests a quasi equilibrium response on these time scales. The response at deeper levels was investigated by comparing the zonal transport per unit width (vertically averaged zonal Velocity) in the upper 200 m with sea level. These series were significantly correlated (with 95% confidence) at a lag of 10.5 d indicating eastward phase propagation ...
Accessing resources for identity development by urban students and teachers: foregrounding context

Many attempt to address the documented achievement gap between urban and suburban students by offering special programs to enrich urban students’ academic experiences and proficiencies. Such was the case in the study described by DeGennaro and Brown in which urban students participated in an after-school technology course intended to address the “digital divide” by giving these youth supported experiences as technology users. However, also like the initial situation described in this study, instructional design that does not capitalize on what we know about urban education or informal learning contexts can actually further damage urban youths’ identities as learners by positioning them as powerless and passive recipients instead of meaningful contributors to their own learning. The analysis presented in this forum is intended to further the conversation begun by DeGennaro and Brown by explicitly complexifying our consideration of context (activity structures and setting) so as to support the development of contexts that afford rich learning potential for both the urban students and their learning facilitators, positioned in the role of teachers. Carefully constructed contexts can afford participants as learners (urban students and teachers) opportunities to access rich identity resources (not typically available in traditional school contexts) including, but not limited to, the opportunity to exercise agency that allows participants to reorganize their learning context and enacted culture as needed.
Unification of CAD and FEM using Knowledge Engineering

Establishing an "intelligent link" between conventional CAD systems and different analytical tools like finite element analysis packages is a significant concern in design automation. This paper proposes the use of knowledge engineering for the unification process and outlines the dimensions of an overall framework for an integrated CAD/FEM system A prototype system for structural design of aircraft wings has been implemented in this integrated environment.
Evaluating the role of EPA policy levers: An examination of a voluntary program and regulatory threat in the metal-finishing industry

Abstract In this paper, we evaluate the influence of two environmental policy levers on emissions in the metal-finishing industry: a voluntary program—the Strategic Goals Program (SGP)—and the threat of formal regulation. While voluntary approaches are increasingly utilized as policy tools, the effectiveness of such programs is often questioned, and the impact of a voluntary program in tandem with a regulatory threat is not well understood. We examine the decision to participate in the SGP and, conditional on that decision, determine the effects that the SGP and regulatory threat had on facility emissions behavior. Participation in the program appears related to several forms of external pressure: the regulatory threat, industry trade association membership, the level of environmental giving in a state, and a number of neighborhood characteristics. However, over the entire study period, participation in the SGP yielded little, if any, additional reductions in emissions, while the regulatory threat is correlated with significant emission reductions by both participants and non-participants. Splitting our study period into two time periods reveals a more nuanced relationship between SGP participation and emissions behavior than is evident over the entire study period. While participants do not appear to take advantage of the program initially, they make greater strides in reducing emissions than non-participants in later years. The split sample results also indicate that both participants and non-participants react strongly to the initial threat of regulation and to an increase in its relative stringency.
Cloning and Expression of a Single-Chain Antibody Fragment Specific for Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus

The gene for a single-chain antibody (VHK) to a conformational epitope on the type A12 foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) particle was assembled and expressed in Escherichia coli. The VHK, purified from periplasmic extracts immunoprecipitated virus as efficiently as its parental monoclonal antibody (MAb) and exhibited the same binding specificity when tested against panel of natural and genetically engineered virus particles. The VHK neutralized type A12 virus in the presence of goat anti-mouse IgG; however, in the absence of the second antibody, only weak neutralizing activity was detected. Preliminary analysis of the mechanism of viral neutralization indicated that both the MAb and the VHK neutralize by the same mechanism. Small amounts of the VHK allowed infection of cells via Fc receptor-mediated adsorption in the presence of the second antibody. These data represent the first report of a single-chain neutralizing antibody for a picornavirus and provide insights into the mechanisms of viral neutralization and virus uptake.
Evaluation of immunosuppressants and dietary mechanisms in an experimental disease model for necrotic enteritis

Clostridium perfringens (CP) is the etiologic agent of necrotic enteritis (NE). Clinical signs of this disease include depression, decreased appetite, diarrhea, and severe necrosis of the intestinal tract. Understanding the disease progression of NE has been difficult due to its complexity and the involvement of multiple factors (dietary components, immunosuppression, and mechanical irritation of the gut) that appear to contribute to this syndrome. In the present investigation, day-of-hatch broilers were fed a 55% wheat diet and randomly assigned to 1 of 8 groups. Treatments included positive control (CP challenge only), commercial coccidia vaccine (CCV), commercial bursal disease vaccine (CBDV), or the combination of CCV and CBDV, and an appropriate negative control for each (vaccinated and not challenged). Challenged treatment groups received 10(7) cfu of CP twice daily. When compared with controls, broilers in each treatment group had increased (P < or = 0.05) lesion scores, with mean scores of 1.05 and 2.05 in the CP and CBDV + CP treatments, respectively. When compared with controls, the incidence of CP increased (P < or = 0.05) in all treatment groups (73 and 100% in the CCV + CP and CBDV + CP treatment groups, respectively). Compared with controls, percentage mortality increased (P < or = 0.05) from 2% to 26 and 34% in the CP and CBDV + CP treatment groups, respectively. Results of this study indicate that the methodology used provides a good model for studying NE.
Competitiveness, systems of innovation and the learning economy: the forest sector in Costa Rica

Abstract The different sectors of the economy, and the forest sector in particular, must create innovations in order to survive and to be competitive. Scientific knowledge should be introduced and institutionalized into the forest processes, but also knowledge derived from other sources such as user producer relationships and others should be incorporated. A new concept is emerging that considers that the economy should learn not only from the new scientific knowledge but also from the rest of the processes. This concept is National Systems of Innovation (created in 1985 in the Scandinavian countries), however, here the concept is broadened of a Sustainable System of Innovation. This approach of sustainable systems of innovation (SSI), considers that the sources for innovation towards development, particularly sustainable development, are formal organisations (universities, research centres, or so), the productive structure (the economy), the institutional set-up (patterns of behaviour), the economy–ecology relationships (potential and limitations of the ecosystem for production) and the policies of the sector. Each one of these factors interact and feed each other. They cannot be seen independently nor static; on the contrary, they are dynamic and evolutionary, without any doubt including the ecosystem. Then, the process of learning from all these sources, which is the base for SSI, may produce ‘greener’ innovations, greener technologies and greener institutions. Innovations related to forest services from Costa Rica will illustrate these ideas.
Serial changes in diastolic function: lessons from the growing field of echo-epidemiology.

Normal left ventricular function consists of 2 interrelated processes. Systole comprises a coordinated interplay between fiber shortening, wall thickening, longitudinal shortening, and cardiac twist, which results in the generation of stroke volume. During diastole, which comprises relaxation and untwist, as well as contraction of the atrium, the normal ventricle relaxes and fills to an adequate end-diastolic volume at low pressure—thus optimizing stroke volume in the next systole.1 The noninvasive assessment of systolic and diastolic function is a major undertaking of cardiologists, and in 2015, this assessment is usually performed with echocardiography. The assessment of systolic function, which began with M-mode echocardiography in the 1970s, now comprises both 2D and 3D echocardiography, as well as regional function assessment with speckle tracking. The assessment of diastolic function became routine in the 1980s, with the development of pulsed Doppler measurement of transmitral flow velocities: early ( E ) and late/atrial contraction ( A ) velocities and pulmonary venous flows.2 See Article by Kuznetsova et al Tissue Doppler imaging represented a major advance in the assessment of diastolic function because its measurement of early mitral annular velocity ( e ′) added a quantitative descriptor of left ventricular relaxation to the standard imaging protocol.3 This parameter, coupled with the transmitral E velocity ( E / e ′ ratio), is a validated method for assessing left ventricular filling pressures.3 In clinical practice, these parameters are used to classify diastolic function is as normal, or as mild, moderate, or severe dysfunction.4,5 One does not have to be a diastole hater to ask whether the considerable effort involved in …
The status of women in US academic pharmacy.

Objective. To describe the status of women in pharmacy education with particular focus on a 10-year update of a previous study. Methods. Information was obtained from national databases, published reports, scholarly articles, and association websites. Comparisons were made between men and women regarding degree completion, rank, tenure status, leadership positions, research awards, salaries, and career advancement. Results. There have been modest gains in the number of women serving as department chairs and deans. Salary disparities were found between men and women at several ranks within pharmacy practice. Men were more apt to be tenured or in tenure-track positions and received 89.4% of the national achievement awards tracked since 1981. Conclusion. The problem cannot be simply attributed to the pipeline of those entering academia. Barriers to advancement differ between men and women. We recommend that individuals, institutions, and associations implement strategies to decrease barriers and reduce bias against women.
The internet is flat: a brief history of networking in the next ten years

The current Internet consists of ten to twenty thousand different interconnected autonomous networks. In many cases these networks have negotiated cumbersome bilateral and multilateral agreements that constrain how data is allowed to flow from source to destination. For example, universities can communicate with each other through the Abilene network but must rely on other networks to communicate with non-academic entities such as Google. These agreements generally impose a loose hierarchy on the Internet with respect to the flow of data and information. The recent development of peer-to-peer file sharing technology, however, has the unintended effect of relaxing and voiding these agreements. This has resulted in a "flattening" of the Internet. In this talk we review the introduction of peer-to-peer (p2p) technology and examine the implications that it may have on the Internet over the next ten years. In particular, we examine the effects of p2p on economics for Internet service providers (ISPs), and the impact on how they manage and engineer their networks. We focus on one p2p technology, "swarming," as exemplified by BitTorrent, and examine how it could further flatten the Internet if it were to become the basis of a "universal swarm" and form the basis of a new data transfer architecture over the next ten years. Last, we present a research agenda centered on swarm technology to make this happen. We will focus in particular on interesting theoretical and algorithmic challenges that will arise with such an architecture.
Is there a referral bias against catheterization of patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction? Influence of ejection fraction and inducible ischemia on post-single-photon emission computed tomography management of patients without a history of coronary artery disease.

OBJECTIVES The objective of this work was to define the relationship between left ventricular perfusion/ function measures and referral rates to catheterization and revascularization early after stress gated myocardial perfusion single-photon emission computed tomography (MPS). BACKGROUND Although revascularization yields the greatest survival benefit in patients with low ejection fraction (EF) and extensive coronary artery disease, referral patterns to catheterization and revascularization after noninvasive testing are not well defined. METHODS We identified 3,369 patients without previous myocardial infarction or revascularization who underwent exercise or adenosine stress MPS and who were followed-up (97% complete) for occurrence of early ( 15% of myocardium), where rates decreased with decreasing EF. Similar modeling of revascularization (c-index = 0.94, chi-square = 329) revealed that the likelihood of revascularization increased with increasing ischemia but, in general, decreased with decreasing EF. CONCLUSIONS Although post-SPECT referral to both catheterization and revascularization is driven by ischemia, EF has the opposite effect on these two outcomes. Further studies evaluating the appropriateness of these referral patterns are warranted.
Longitudinal Dyad Models in Family Research

Multilevel modeling allows for the simultaneous analysis of data gathered at more than 1 unit of analysis (e.g., children nested in schools). It is often used to examine the effects of various contexts on individual differences in change. This paper promotes the application of multilevel models to longitudinal dyadic data in family research. By focusing on the dyad as context, researchers can examine within-dyad change and begin to understand the interactive processes that constitute the relationship between partners. They can then frame questions about interdyad differences in within-dyad change. We present several longitudinal models that researchers can use to examine the pattern of change within dyads, assess heterogeneity in change across dyads, and investigate cross-partner effects on change. We comment on the implications of these models for family research.
Computer calculations of explosion-produced craters☆

Abstract This paper presents a technique that seems to calculate adequately, from first principles, the mound and cavity growth that occur during nuclear and high-explosive cratering events. The technique features a standard, numerical approach to high-intensity, stress-wave propagation coupled with a unique model of material behaviour in brittle failure. A preshot testing programme is presented which obtains the necessary material properties from logging tests in the medium and from laboratory tests of selected rock samples. In situ properties to be determined by field logging are density and elastic velocity (compressional and shear velocity). Sample properties to be determined by laboratory tests are hydrostatic compressibility (to at least 40 kb), triaxial data, tensile strength, Hugoniot elastic limit, and high-pressure Hugoniot data for the rock near the point of detonation (nuclear only). Calculations are presented for Project Hardhat (5 kt, nuclear in granite), Project Scooter (0·45 kt, high-explosive in alluvium), Project Danny Boy (0·42 kt, nuclear in basalt), Project Sulky (0·09 kt, nuclear in basalt), and three parameter studies featuring rhyolite equations-of-state. The Danny Boy calculation confirmed spalling to be the predominant, nuclear cratering mechanism in hard, dry rock. This observation permitted the construction of a free-fall, throw-out model which gave a reasonable estimate of crater radius and ejecta boundary. The rhyolite parameter studies give some insight into the importance of medium properties in determining crater geometry. Further effort in this area is required; however, the agreement between the above calculations and the field experiments indicates that the technique is capable of resolving this issue.
Busulfan and Cyclophosphamide Versus Cyclophosphamide and Total Body Irradiation for Marrow Transplantation in Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia–A Review

Allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) for chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) offers the only significant chance of cure for this disease. About 50% of patients transplanted in the 1980s appear to be cured and with subsequent advances, it is suggested that more patients transplanted in the 1990s will be cured. Cyclophosphamide (Cy) (120 mg/kg) followed by fractionated total body irradiation (TBI) (Cy2/TBI) has been usually employed in preparation for BMT. Alternative regimens of Busulfan (Bu) (16 mg/kg) and Cy (120 mg/kg) (Bu/Cy2) or Bu (16 mg/kg) and Cy (200 mg/kg) (Bu/Cy4) have more recently been employed. At least three studies of Bu/Cy2 or Bu/Cy4 have given encouraging results. Two ongoing randomized studies of Bu/Cy2 versus Cy2/TBI have shown no difference in the event free survival (EFS). In addition, two ongoing randomized studies of Bu/Cy4 versus Cy (200 mg/kg) plus TBI (Cy4/TBI) show no significant differences in EFS. It appears that Bu/Cy regimens are as effective as Cy/TBI regimens. The choice of one regimen over the other depends on matters other than therapeutic efficacy.
Injuries in Youth Football: A Prospective Observational Cohort Analysis Among Players Aged 9 to 13 Years

OBJECTIVE To determine the risk of injury in youth football games. Subjects and Methods Nine hundred fifteen players aged 9 to 13 years on 42 teams participated, including 10 teams in each grade from grades 4 through 6 and 6 teams each in grades 7 and 8. The study was conducted in the fall of 1997. Injury incidence, prevalence, and severity were calculated for each grade level and player position. Additional analyses examined the number of injuries according to body weight. Results A total of 55 injuries occurred in games during the entire season (overall prevalence, 5.97%). Most injuries were mild, and the most common type was contusion, which occurred in 33 players (60%). Four injuries (7%) were severe enough to prevent players from participating for the rest of the season. All 4 severe injuries were fractures involving the ankle physis. The risk of injury increased as players matured in age and grade level. Injury risk for an eighthgrade player was 4 times greater than the risk of injury to a fourth-grade player. A trend was identified for heavier players to be at increased risk, but no significant correlation was evident between body weight and injury. Conclusion Our prospective observational analysis showed that most youth football injuries are mild. Older and heavier players appear to be at higher risk.
Prevalence of eosinophilia in hospitalized patients with asthma exacerbation.

Abstract Background Recent studies have identified the “eosinophilic phenotype” of asthma that is characterized by persistent eosinophilic inflammation and frequent exacerbations. However, the prevalence of eosinophilia in patients hospitalized for asthma exacerbation is not known. Methods We performed a pilot study in two sites participating in a multicenter chart review project of children and adults hospitalized for asthma exacerbation during 2012–2013. The pilot study investigated the prevalence of blood eosinophilia in this patient population. Eosinophilia was defined as a count of ≥300 cells/microliter at some time during the hospitalization. Results Among 80 patients hospitalized for asthma exacerbation, 47 (59%) underwent CBC with differential and had data on blood eosinophil count. These 47 comprised the analytic cohort. The median patient age was 32 years (IQR, 24–44 years), and 51% were female. Overall, 40% (95% CI, 26%–56%) of patients had eosinophilia. Although statistical power was limited, there were no statistically significant differences in patient characteristics or hospital course between patients with eosinophilia and those without (all P > 0.05). Conclusion Our pilot study showed that 40% of patients hospitalized for asthma exacerbation had eosinophilia. The clinical meaning of this biomarker in the emergency department/inpatient setting requires further study in much larger samples with long-term follow-up; such studies appear feasible.
Testing Respite Effect of Work on Stress Among Mothers of Children with Special Needs

Extant research is ambivalent about whether or not working outside the home provides mothers of children with special needs a buffer against the stressful effects of caregiving. The empirical evidence of a respite effect is based primarily on small, non-probability samples. The study reported here used a large nationally representative sample of families from the National Survey of American Families (NSAF) and analysis that addressed the biasing effects of simultaneity between the dependent variable (parent stress) and employment. Results produced are consistent with a caregiver-specific respite effect from work, at least among mother caregivers of older children who were not concerned that working will have negative effects on their child’s well-being and who worked regular shifts in higher level occupations.
Fetal Liver Bisphenol A Concentrations and Biotransformation Gene Expression Reveal Variable Exposure and Altered Capacity for Metabolism in Humans

Widespread exposure to the endocrine active compound, bisphenol A (BPA), is well documented in humans. A growing body of literature suggests adverse health outcomes associated with varying ranges of exposure to BPA. In the current study, we measured the internal dose of free BPA and conjugated BPA and evaluated gene expression of biotransformation enzymes specific for BPA metabolism in 50 first- and second-trimester human fetal liver samples. Both free BPA and conjugated BPA concentrations varied widely, with free BPA exhibiting three times higher concentrations than conjugated BPA concentrations. As compared to gender-matched adult liver controls, UDP-glucuronyltransferase, sulfotransferase, and steroid sulfatase genes exhibited reduced expression whereas β-glucuronidase mRNA expression remained unchanged in the fetal tissues. This study provides evidence that there is considerable exposure to BPA during human pregnancy and that the capacity for BPA metabolism is altered in the human fetal liver.