cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
IL-12 Receptor β1 and Toll-Like Receptor 4 Increase IL-1β- and IL-18-Associated Myocarditis and Coxsackievirus Replication

Th1-type immune responses, mediated by IL-12-induced IFN-gamma, protect the host from most viral infections. To investigate the role of IL-12 and IFN-gamma on the development of Coxsackievirus B3 (CB3)-induced myocarditis, we examined the level of inflammation, viral replication, and cytokine production in IL-12Rbeta1- and IFN-gamma-deficient mice following CB3 infection. We report that IL-12Rbeta1 deficiency results in decreased viral replication and inflammation in the heart, while IFN-gamma deficiency exacerbates CB3 replication. Importantly, decreased IL-1beta and IL-18 levels in IL-12Rbeta1-deficient hearts correlated directly with decreased myocardial inflammation. Because IL-1beta and IL-18 were associated with myocardial inflammation, we examined the effect of TLR4 deficiency on CB3 infection and myocarditis. We found that TLR4-deficient mice also had significantly reduced levels of myocarditis, viral replication, and IL-1beta/IL-18, just as we had observed in IL-12Rbeta1-deficient mice. This is the first report that TLR4 influences CB3 replication. These results show that IL-12Rbeta1 and TLR4 exacerbate CB3 infection and myocarditis while IFN-gamma protects against viral replication. The remarkable similarities between the effects of IL-12Rbeta1 and TLR4 suggest that these receptors share common downstream pathways that directly influence IL-1beta and IL-18 production, and confirm that IL-1beta and IL-18 play a significant role in the pathogenesis of CB3-induced myocarditis. These findings have important implications not only for the pathogenesis of myocarditis, but for other autoimmune diseases triggered by viral infections.
Wave Numbers of Infrared Spectral Lines Beyond λ 1 0 , 0 0 0

Professor Kayser's well-known Tabelle der Schwingungszahlen may be used for wave-lengths beyond $\ensuremath{\lambda}10,000$ by merely interchanging the labels of the two quantities tabulated. The vacuum wave-number thus derived, though not exactly correct, is sufficiently accurate for most of the data now available. For higher accuracy small corrections are tabulated.
Interpreting the Likelihood Ratio Statistic in Factor Models When Sample Size is Small

Abstract The use of the likelihood ratio statistic in testing the goodness of fit of the exploratory factor model has no formal justification when, as is often the case in practice, the usual regularity conditions are not met. In a Monte Carlo experiment it is found that the asymptotic theory seems to be appropriate when the regularity conditions obtain and sample size is at least 30. When the regularity conditions are not satisfied, the asymptotic theory seems to be misleading in all sample sizes considered.
Multiplicity of Neurosecretory Cell Types and Groups in the Brain of the Saturniid Moth Hyalophora cecropia (L.)

As part of an extensive investigation of the anatomy and histology of the known endocrine organs of Hyalophora cecropia in the last 2 larval stages and in pupae and adults, we have examined the brain neurosecretory (NS) cells utilizing paraffin sections and the standard NS stains, paraldehyde-fuchsin (PAF) with counterstains and chrome-haematoxylin (CH) with phloxine. Previous workers1,2 had reported the existence of 26 apparently identical NS cells in the brain of this insect. Our results demonstrate the presence of at least 40 such cells and provide histological evidence for the occurrence of several distinct functional types.
Stepwise ionization in a non-equilibrium, steady-state hydrogen plasma

Abstract The paper considers a non-equilibrium, steady-state hydrogen plasma with 10 10 ≲ N e , cm -3 ≲ 10 17 and 8000 ≲ T e , °K ≲ 64,000. The following two cases are analyzed: (1) the plasma is optically thin for all atomic lines and (2) the plasma is optically thick towards the Lyman lines and optically thin for all other lines. Analytical expressions have been obtained for populations and ionization frequencies of excited levels. Populations of the excited levels obtained from the analytical formulas are in good agreement with numerical calculations.
Patterns of pigmentation in the eye lens of the deep-sea hatchetfish, Argyropelecus affinis Garman.

The present study is a morphological, biochemical and spectrophotometric characterization of the eye lens pigmentation in 45 specimens (11–88 mm in standard length) of the deep-sea hatchetfish,Argyropelecus affinis (Stomiiformes: Sternoptychidae). For comparison, we also examined available lenses of other members of the family Sternoptychidae, including three other species of the genusArgyropelecus, and two species of the genusSternoptyx. Lens pigmentation was observed in all specimens ofArgyropelecus spp. larger than about 36 mm in standard length, but was absent in allArgyropelecus spp. individuals less than 36 mm. However, lens pigmentation was not observed inSternoptyx specimens of any size. Detailed studies ofA. affinis indicated that (1) at 36 mm the nascent lens fiber cells, which are continually laid down over preexisting, unpigmented cells, begin incorporating pigment, and (2) the pigment concentration increases steadily as pigmented cells are added during lens growth. Spectrophotometric and biochemical data suggested that the pigment is a carotenoprotein complex, the carotenoid-like chromophore being strongly associated with a specific soluble lens protein, alpha crystallin. While the lens coloration in these fishes is age-related, analyses of the retinal visual pigment revealed no concomitant age-related change in the peak wavelength of retinal sensitivity in these fishes. Our data on the spectral absorbance of the lens and visual pigment of these fishes suggest that the lens pigmentation acts as a short-wave filter to improve acuity of the visual system.
A passive alignment method utilizing reference posts and its application in multi-level LIGA processing

Many MEMS applications require multi-level microstructures in which two or more levels have to be aligned to each other in the processing. A passive alignment method based on a mechanical registration concept utilizing reference posts has been described in our early work [1]. An alignment accuracy of 1 μm for a two layers optical lithography has been achieved. In this paper the experimental results on improvement of the alignment accuracy and expanding this alignment method to multi-level X-ray or combined optical/X-ray lithography are presented.
Perinatal Asphyxia in a Nonhuman Primate Model

Perinatal asphyxia is a leading cause of brain injury in neonates, occurring in 2–4 per 1,000 live births, and there are limited treatment options. Because of their similarity to humans, nonhuman primates are ideal for performing preclinical tests of safety and efficacy for neurotherapeutic interventions. We previously developed a primate model of acute perinatal asphyxia using 12–15 min of umbilical cord occlusion. Continuing this research, we have increased cord occlusion time from 15 to 18 min and extended neurodevelopmental follow-up to 9 months. The purpose of this report is to evaluate the increase in morbidity associated with 18 min of asphyxia by comparing indices obtained from colony controls, nonasphyxiated controls and asphyxiated animals. Pigtail macaques were delivered by hysterotomy after 0, 15 or 18 min of cord occlusion, then resuscitated. Over the ensuing 9 months, for each biochemical and physiologic parameters, behavioral and developmental evaluations, and structural and spectroscopic MRI were recorded. At birth, all asphyxiated animals required resuscitation with positive pressure ventilation and exhibited biochemical and clinical characteristics diagnostic of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, including metabolic acidosis and attenuated brain activity. Compared with controls, asphyxiated animals developed long-term physical and cognitive deficits. This preliminary report characterizes the acute and chronic consequences of perinatal asphyxia in a nonhuman primate model, and describes diagnostic imaging tools for quantifying correlates of neonatal brain injury as well as neurodevelopmental tests for evaluating early motor and cognitive outcomes.
A protocol for phenotypic detection and enumeration of circulating endothelial cells and circulating progenitor cells in human blood

Blood circulating endothelial cells (CECs) and circulating hematopoietic progenitor cells (CPCs) represent two cell populations that are thought to play important roles in tissue vascularization. CECs and CPCs are currently studied as surrogate markers in patients for more than a dozen pathologies, including heart disease and cancer. However, data interpretation has often been difficult because of multiple definitions, methods and protocols used to evaluate and count these cells by different laboratories. Here, we propose a cytometry protocol for phenotypic identification and enumeration of CECs and CPCs in human blood using four surface markers: CD31, CD34, CD133 and CD45. This method allows further phenotypic analyses to explore the biology of these cells. In addition, it offers a platform for longitudinal studies of these cells in patients with different pathologies. The protocol is relatively simple, inexpensive and can be adapted for multiple flow cytometer types or software. The procedure should take 2–2.5 h, and is expected to detect 0.1–6.0% viable CECs and 0.01–0.20% CPCs within blood mononuclear cell population.
Object-based visual attention with endogenous orienting.

In a series of experiments, we examined covert orienting using endogenous cuing, in which attention is voluntarily directed toward a peripheral location. In one experiment, subjects were cued to attend to one end of an oblong object. They then detected targets on the cued object or elsewhere. In another experiment, subjects provided judgments of the relative temporal order of two flashes after their attention had moved endogenously. In a third experiment, subjects were directed to attend to an empty spatial location and subsequently discriminated features of objects that appeared at or near the locus of attention. In each of these situations, attentional orienting was object based, in the sense that non-attended locations that were on the cued object had an advantage over nonattended locations that were not on the object. The results are discussed in terms of their implications for object-based representations and the differences between exogenous and endogenous orienting of attention.
Shuttle imaging radar A analysis of land use in Amazonia

Abstract Over large areas in the tropics satellite imagery is the principal source of data on the area, current stature, and extent of disturbance of the forests. The information from imagery that covers large areas at low resolution is greatly enhanced when different types of imagery can be compared. We have made a comparison of data from Landsat MSS and from the Shuttle Imaging Radar (SIR-A) L band HH polarization data for sites in the Amazon Basin. Results indicate that SIR-A backscatter from the undisturbed forest was lower than that from some disturbed areas and from flooded forests and that SIR-A brightness increases nonlinearly with the Landsat normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). We hypothesize that the brightest radar returns in southern Amazonia are from newly cleared forests that are littered with standing and fallen tree boles that function as corner reflectors; and that backscatter will diminish from disturbed areas over time as fields are burned repeatedly.
Effect of 4-sulphonato-calix[n]arenes and cyclodextrins on the solubilization of niclosamide, a poorly water soluble anthelmintic.

The present study investigated the effect of water-soluble 4-sulphonato-calx[n]arenes, cyclodextrins, and combinations of these macromolecules on the aqueous solubility of a poorly water-soluble drug, niclosamide. Complexation between the macromolecules and niclosamide was confirmed by thermal analysis and phase solubility studies in a pH 7.0 McIlvaine buffer kept at 30°C. Results show that the increase in solubility ranked as follows: 4-sulphonato-calix [6]arene+hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD)> 4-sulphonato-calix[6]arene+β-cyclodextrin > 4-sulphonato-calix[6]arene +γ-cyclodextrin=HP-β-CD>4-sulphonato-calix[6]arene >4-sulphonato-calix[8]arene=4-sulphonato-calix[4]arene>β-cyclodextrin. Type B phase solubility profiles were observed, indicating a decrease in solubility at concentrations > 0.004 to 0.005 mol/L of the 4-sulphonato-calix[n]arenes or combinations of 4-sulphonato-calix[6]arene and the cyclodextrins. However, below this concentration, the greatest increase in the aqueous solubility niclosamide was observed when 4-sulphonato-calix[6]arene and HP-β-CD were combined. This increase in solubility was additive.
The Role of Grandmothers in the Lives of Preschoolers Growing up in Urban Poverty.

Abstract Little is known about how grandmothers may influence children's development, although they may frequently assist parents in the raising of their children, especially among low-income families. Data from Welfare, Children, and Families: A Three-City Study were used to explore how preschoolers function academically and psychologically over time based on grandmothers' residential status and level of caretaking responsibility. Longitudinal regression analyses suggest that children who consistently have custodial grandmothers lag behind their peers in the development of their academic achievement, whereas those in multigenerational households consistently have more socioemotional problems over time. However, many of these differences are accounted for by co-occurring family characteristics. Furthermore, children transitioning into the care of custodial grandmothers were found to have positive changes in self-regulation and socioemotional functioning, and those transitioning into multigenerational hous...
Binding and Translocation of Termination Factor Rho Studied at the Single-Molecule Level

Rho termination factor is an essential hexameric helicase responsible for terminating 20-50% of all mRNA synthesis in Escherichia coli. We used single-molecule force spectroscopy to investigate Rho-RNA binding interactions at the Rho utilization site of the λtR1 terminator. Our results are consistent with Rho complexes adopting two states: one that binds 57 ± 2nt of RNA across all six of the Rho primary binding sites, and another that binds 85 ± 2nt at the six primary sites plus a single secondary site situated at the center of the hexamer. The single-molecule data serve to establish that Rho translocates 5'→3' toward RNA polymerase (RNAP) by a tethered-tracking mechanism, looping out the intervening RNA between the Rho utilization site and RNAP. These findings lead to a general model for Rho binding and translocation and establish a novel experimental approach that should facilitate additional single-molecule studies of RNA-binding proteins.
X-ray fluorescence molecular imaging with high sensitivity: feasibility study in phantoms

X-ray fluorescence molecular imaging (XFMI) can be a potential alternative to existing molecular imaging modalities providing high sensitivity and good spatial resolution. However, high sensitivity at a few tens of μg/mL can be reached only with monochromatic synchrotron x-rays; in typical laboratory setting using conventional x-ray sources XFMI has been reported to reach only about 10 mg/mL sensitivity. In this paper, we demonstrated the feasibility of simultaneously detecting x-ray fluorescence signals from a mouse-sized object containing iodine and indium solutions at 50 μg/mL concentration using a carbon nanotube (CNT) x-ray source. XFMI has the high potential to provide molecular imaging capability in small-animal models with high sensitivity, high spatial and temporal resolution, high multiplexing capacity, and at low radiation dose.
Diffusion‐controlled kinetics for the solution copolymerization of 2‐ethylhexyl acrylate with vinyl chloroacetate in a CSTR

The solution copolymerization of the comonomer pair 2-ethylhexyl acrylate–vinyl chloroacetate (in ethyl acetate) has been studied in a continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR). The initiator used in this study, 2,2′-azobis-2,4-dimethyl valeronitrile was selected on the basis of its high decomposition rate constant. Measurements included the rate of copolymerization, the copolymer composition by infrared spectrophotometric analysis, the molecular weight distribution by gel permeation chromatography, and the viscosity of the reaction mixture by capillary viscometry. The reactivity ratios for the EHA–VCLAC pair were markedly different so that both propagating chains preferentially add EHA. Both the ϕ factor and the penultimate effect models were inadequate for describing the termination reaction. By defining an appropriate expression, based on physicochemical considerations, for the overall termination rate constant, it was possible to model the steady state rates by the diffusion model of Atherton and North. An attempt to model the transient behavior of the reactor by using the ϕ value as an adaptable correction factor was unsuccessful due to the rapid composition drift during approach to steady state. The measured conversions were lower than the model predictions for all feed ratios.
Binding, sequestration, and processing of epidermal growth factor and nerve growth facor by PC12 cells

Th rat PC12 pheochromocytoma cell line exhibits biological responses to both nerve growth factor (NGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF). The existence of receptors and biological responses on a common cell for these two well-characterized polypeptide growth factors makes this an attractive system for comparison of ligand binding and processing. Both NGF and EGF are bound to PC12 cells in a competable form at 4/sup 0/C. At 37/sup 0/C both ligands are ''sequestered,'' but at different rates and to different extents. While sequestration happens rapidly and nearly quantitatively for bound EGF, the dissociation reaction appears to compete favorably with NFG sequestration. Both EGF and NGF are degraded by PC12 cells. Sequestered EGF, however, is degraded to a greater extent than sequestered NGF.
Yeast Prions: Protein Aggregation Is Not Enough

Many damaged and mutant polypeptides, as well as some normal proteins, have a tendency to aggregate in cells. Some protein aggregates are capable of “dividing” and propagating in cells, leading to formation of similar aggregates in daughter cells or even in neighboring cells due to “infection.” These self-propagating protein aggregates are called prions and constitute the basis of prion diseases. The infectious agent in these diseases is an abnormal conformation of the PrP protein (PrPSc), which makes it protease-resistant and initiates its aggregation (Prusiner 1998). The abnormal aggregated species can recruit normal soluble PrP molecules into aggregates, thus inactivating them. The aggregates of PrPSc can proliferate within cells and be transmitted to other cells and tissues, leading to the spread of neurotoxicity.
The medicinal and dietary use of chocolate in early America as told through 19th-century cookbooks

My objective is to establish the historical significance of chocolate/cocoa's medicinal use from 1850 through 1910 as told through American cookbooks and to determine the impact that the dietary advice in cookbooks had on the general public. I conducted manual searches utilizing the following archives: The Library of Congress, Washington DC, Van Pelt Library, Rare Books Division, University of Pennsylvania, College of Physicians of Philadelphia, PA, Butler Library, Rare Books Division, Columbia University, Schlesinger and Houghton Libraries, Harvard University. An earlier account, The Natural History of Chocolate, translated by Brooks and published in 1730, outlines commonly held medicinal beliefs of early America [islands]. While writing on the medicinal properties of chocolate, Brooks translates that the Spaniards erroneously define chocolate as cold and dry, and that “these prejudices have from the Spaniards passed into other Nations.” Did, as Brooks writes, American women in the19th century adhere to the medicinal theory of hot/cold, wet/dry, and was chocolate part of the preventative or healing culture of this time? The answer is yes, and is documented through 19th-century cookbooks. Moreover, within sections titled Cookery for the Sick and Convalescent, cookbooks are a means for filtering dietary advice to the general public while giving voice to ‘Other’.
Recruitment of the oncoprotein v-ErbA to aggresomes

Abstract Aggresome formation, a cellular response to misfolded protein aggregates, is linked to cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. Previously we showed that Gag-v-ErbA (v-ErbA), a retroviral variant of the thyroid hormone receptor (TRα1), accumulates in and sequesters TRα1 into cytoplasmic foci. Here, we show that foci represent v-ErbA targeting to aggresomes. v-ErbA colocalizes with aggresomal markers, proteasomes, hsp70, HDAC6, and mitochondria. Foci have hallmark characteristics of aggresomes: formation is microtubule-dependent, accelerated by proteasome inhibitors, and they disrupt intermediate filaments. Proteasome-mediated degradation is critical for clearance of v-ErbA and T3-dependent TRα1 clearance. Our studies highlight v-ErbA's complex mode of action: the oncoprotein is highly mobile and trafficks between the nucleus, cytoplasm, and aggresome, carrying out distinct activities within each compartment. Dynamic trafficking to aggresomes contributes to the dominant negative activity of v-ErbA and may be enhanced by the viral Gag sequence. These studies provide insight into novel modes of oncogenesis across multiple cellular compartments.
Spin Waves in Complex Lattices

Consideration is given to a lattice which has an arbitrary number of magnetic atoms, or spins, in each magnetic unit cell. The Hamiltonian for this spin system is taken to include the usual isotropic exchange and magnetic field terms. This Hamiltonian is diagonalized in the spin-wave approximation for the case where the spin-deviation from the + or - $z$ direction is small for each spin. The thermal average values of the $z$ component of each spin are calculated and found in general to be different for spins on inequivalent sites in the unit cell. Insofar as the model Hamiltonian and the spin-wave approximations are valid, it is suggested that nuclear magnetic resonance measurements might be interpreted to give some information about the effective anisotropy fields.
Effects of polysaccharides on the appetite and efficiency of food utilization in the growing rat.

Female rats were raised to maturity on a polysaccharide-free diet and rations containing respectively 10% cellulose, 10% agar agar and 10% pectin. No beneficial effects on growth, gross appearance, appetite or efficiency of food utilization were observed on any of the diets due to the presence of the respective polysaccharides.
Dynamic Stabilization of Atmospheric Single Column Models

Single column models (SCMs) provide an economical framework for assessing the sensitivity of atmospheric temperature and humidity to natural and imposed perturbations, and also for developing improved representations of diabatic processes in weather and climate models. Their economy is achieved at the expense of ignoring interactions with the circulation dynamics; thus, advection by the large-scale flow is either prescribed or neglected. This artificial decoupling of the diabatic and adiabatic tendencies can often cause rapid error growth in SCM integrations, especially in the Tropics where large-scale vertical advection is important. As a result, SCMs can quickly develop highly unrealistic thermodynamic structures, making it pointless to study their subsequent evolution. This paper suggests one way around this fundamental difficulty through a simple coupling of the diabatic and adiabatic tendencies. In essence, the local vertical velocity at any instant is specified by a formula that links the local vertical temperature advection to the evolution of SCM-generated diabatic heating rates up to that instant. This vertical velocity is then used to determine vertical humidity advection, and also horizontal temperature and humidity advection under an additional assumption that the column is embedded in a uniform environment. The parameters in the formula are estimated in a separate set of calculations, from the approach to equilibrium of a linearized global primitive equation model forced by steady heat sources. As a test, the parameterized dynamics are used to predict the linear model’s local response to oscillating heat sources, and found to perform remarkably well over a wide range of space and time scales. In a second test, the parameterization is found to capture important aspects of a general circulation model’s vertical advection and temperature tendencies and their lead‐lag relationships with diabatic heating fluctuations at convectively active locations in the Tropics. When implemented in the NCAR SCM, the dynamically coupled SCM shows a clear improvement over its uncoupled counterpart for tropical conditions observed during the Tropical Ocean Global Atmosphere Coupled Ocean‐Atmosphere Response Experiment (TOGA COARE). Coupling effectively stabilizes the SCM. As a result, short-term prediction errors are substantially reduced, the ensemble spread is reduced in ensemble runs, and the SCM is able to maintain realistic thermodynamic structures in extended runs. Such a dynamically coupled SCM should therefore be more useful not only for isolating physical parameterization errors in weather and climate models, but also for economical simulations of regional climate variability.
Acculturation, Cultural Values, and Latino Parental Beliefs About the Etiology of ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders of childhood. Despite the availability of several evidence-based interventions, Latino children are more likely than non-minority children to have an unmet need for services related to ADHD. Given that parental beliefs about the etiology of ADHD likely influence service utilization, research needs to focus on cultural factors that may influence parental beliefs about the etiology of child behavior problems. Thus, the goal of the current study was to investigate the role of acculturation and cultural values of familism, respect, spirituality, and traditional gender roles in explaining parental etiological beliefs about ADHD in a sample of Latino parents. Findings suggest that behavioral acculturation was not significantly correlated with biopsychosocial or sociological/spiritual etiological beliefs; however, the cultural values of familism and traditional gender roles were positively correlated with sociological/spiritual beliefs. Further, exploratory analyses suggested that after controlling for SES, familism and traditional gender roles accounted for 30.5 % of the total variance in sociological/spiritual beliefs about ADHD. Finally, post hoc analyses revealed that cultural values were associated with several individual belief categories within the sociological/spiritual domain, including beliefs about friends, spirituality, and nature disharmony. The current study supports the inclusion of etiological beliefs and cultural factors in research examining help-seeking and access to mental health services among Latino families and suggests that the incorporation of alternative etiological beliefs about child behavior may be an important factor in culturally-appropriate mental health services.
Excretion and Tissue Distribution of Uniformly Labeled 14C-Pentachlorophenol in Rats

The excretion and tissue distribution of pentachlorophenol were studied in rats by administration of oral doses of 99.5% radiochemically pure, uniformly labeled 14C-pentachlorophenol dissolved in olive oil. After oral administration, less than 0.04% of the administered radioactivity was detected in the respired air in a 24-hr. period. The recovery of pentachlorophenol and/or metabolites in the urine was greatest at the 16-hr. collection period. The average total percent of the administered activity recovered in the urine after 24 hr. was 50.2%, with between 9.2 and 13.2% being recovered in the feces after 10 days. The tissues containing the highest levels of activity were the liver, kidney, and blood, respectively. All other tissues contained less activity than the blood.
Coupled simulations of texture evolution during deformation and recrystallization of fcc and bcc metals

Thermo-mechanical processing to produce optimum grain structure and texture is essential for the successful utilization of commercial aluminum alloys and steels as sheet products. Several modeling techniques have been developed in the past with a reasonably good predictive capability for bulk deformation textures. However, prediction of texture evolution during recrystallization remains very challenging because of uncertainties involved in predicting the mechanisms that lead to nuclei formation and crystallographic orientations of the nuclei, and the uncertainties involved in predicting the grain boundary properties that determine the growth kinetics of the nuclei. We present some of our recent work in modeling the recrystallization textures following cold deformation in polycrystalline bcc metals and hot-deformation in fcc metals.
Acquired tracheomalacia: etiology and differential diagnosis.

The noninvasive diagnosis of impaired mechanical integrity or compliance of the trachea is most accurately made by fluoroscopic observation recorded on video tape or cineradiography, with or without benefit of artificial contrast media (contrast tracheography). In particular, localized buckling, collapse or dilatation indicative of focal tracheomalacia may thus be diagnosed in vivo and correlated with diseases of the central airways. Congenital tracheomalacia is a rare, but well described entity. Cases of acquired tracheomalacia occur with increasing frequency, but are often not clearly recognized. We contrast the dynamic behavior of the normal trachea with the abnormal dynamics characteristic of focal tracheomalacia. Such lesions may result from trauma, surgical procedures, chronic irritation, inflammation, mechanical changes, or malignancy.
A simple algebraic approximation to the Erlang loss system

We use Palm calculus to derive a simple, intuitive system of two linear-quadratic equations and two unknowns, whose algebraic solution yields Harel's (1988) upper bound to the Erlang loss probability. We then derive a sequence of progressively stronger systems of equations, which eventually become exact. We provide two example applications.
Molecular changes accompanying senescence and immortalization of cultured human mammary epithelial cells

Limits on the proliferative potential of cultured normal human cells may be consequences of pathways that exist to suppress tumorigenicity. Human mammary epithelial cells (HMEC) employ several mechanisms to prevent unlimited growth. One mechanism may be activated by stress, and is associated with upregulated expression of p16(INK4a). In serum-free medium, some HMEC arise spontaneously which do not express p16. These "post-selection" HMEC are capable of long-term proliferation, but ultimately cease growth when their telomeres become very short. As they approach a growth plateau, termed agonescence, post-selection HMEC populations accumulate chromosome abnormalities. In contrast to the crisis exhibited by cells lacking functional p53, agonescent cells can be maintained as viable cultures. Although transduction of hTERT, the catalytic subunit of telomerase, into post-selection cells can, by itself, efficiently produce immortality and avoid agonescence, the errors that produce telomerase reactivation during carcinogenesis are not known. The block to endogenous telomerase reactivation in HMEC is extremely stringent. However, if one predisposing error is present, the probability greatly increases that additional error(s) required for immortalization may be generated by genomic instability encountered during agonescence. In p53(+) HMEC immortalized after chemical carcinogen exposure, the events involved in overcoming agonescence can be temporally separated from activation of telomerase. We have used the term "conversion" to describe the gradual process that leads to telomerase activation, telomere length stabilization, decreased p57 (KIP2) expression, and increased ability to grow uniformly well in the presence or absence of TGF beta. In the presence of active p53, conversion may represent a rate-limiting step in immortal transformation.
Pathologies of the infinite-n limit of random anisotropy: spin glass transition or local crossover?

Random anisotropy magnets in the spherical model limit exhibit a spin glass phase, which is shown to be a pathology of this limit. For any finite n, the spin glass phase transition is replaced by a crossover line. Detailed analysis is carried out for the infinite-range mean-field limit. Possible implications for the high-dimensional limit of spin glasses are discussed.
Examining Teacher Perspectives of Creative Relaxation

Middle school teachers display large amounts of stress affecting student academic achievement as well as the entire school environment (Clausen & Petruka, 2009; Stoeber & Rennert, 2008). For example, teacher stress may lead to student behavioral problems, poor teacher-parent relationships, conflicts with peers, and lack of teacher autonomy (Skaalvik & Skaalvik, 2007). School and community counselors are in optimal positions to collaboratively decrease teacher stress levels, improve school environments, and enhance student achievement. This qualitative study allowed teachers the opportunity to convey perspectives of a stress management technique incorporating the arts, mental imagery, and the relaxation response (Benson & Klipper, 1975). Five themes emerged: high stress levels, lack of burnout awareness, student impact, a sense of restfulness, and positive self-improvement.
Matrix organization theory and environmental impact assessment

Abstract In recent years matrix organization theory has offered an attractive and theoretically powerful alternative to traditional bureaucratic forms of organization. Yet the claims and propositions of matrix theory have not been tested against a broad body of experience, largely because of the widely varying and incomparable circumstances of identified attempts to use the matrix approach. A set of close approximations of the matrix model, namely government efforts to do environmental impact assessment, does exist and available data based on that experience offer the potential for a limited test of the propositions of matrix theory. The authors assess whether such approximations of matrix organization attain any of the benefits attributed to the matrix approach. Our data do not support those claims of matrix theory that we are able to examine. The authors consider a defense of matrix theory and suggest a reconsideration of matrix assumptions and definitions.
Monstrous faces and a world transformed: Merleau-Ponty, Dolezal, and the enactive approach on vision without inversion of the retinal image

The world perceived by a person undergoing vision without inversion of the retinal image has traditionally been described as inverted. Drawing on the philosophical work of Maurice Merleau-Ponty and the empirical research of Hubert Dolezal, I argue that this description is more reflective of a representationist conception of vision than of actual visual experience. The world initially perceived in vision without inversion of the retinal image is better described as lacking in lived significance rather than inverted; vision without inversion of the retinal image affects the very content of the perceived world, including, importantly, its expressions and conducts, and not merely the orientation of this content. Moreover, I argue that the enactive approach, rather than a representationist approach, is best able to account for the perception of the world, after prolonged vision without inversion of the retinal image, as both normal and upright, yet still different from the world seen previously. Finally, in their attention to the perception of other people’s facial expressions, I argue that Merleau-Ponty and Dolezal draw out the existential significance of the enactive approach. In encountering another person, the most pressing task is generally not to observe this person’s features but, instead, to engage with this person’s expressions.
The invention of the "new" senior citizen criminal. An analysis of crime trends of elderly males and elderly females, 1964-1984.

Using arrest statistics of the Uniform Crime Reports for the years of 1964 and 1984, this report examines the claim of some commentators of rising levels of and more serious criminality on the part of elderly persons. The first year when arrest figures are broken out by age 65 and over is 1964. There have been sharp rises in elderly arrest rates for three offenses: larceny-theft, driving under influence, and other but traffic. But the rates have fallen sharply for four offenses: public drunkenness, disorderly conduct, gambling, and vagrancy. Both today and 20 years ago, elderly arrests are overwhelmingly for alcohol-related crimes (but the type of "alcohol" crime has changed somewhat). There has been, however, somewhat of a crime-profile shift toward comparatively more arrests for larceny-theft (shoplifting), especially on the part of the elderly female offender. The most important finding is that the proportionate criminal involvement of the elderly is about the same now as two decades ago, in spite of d...
Biophysical properties of descending brain neurons in larval lamprey.

Abstract In the brains of larval lamprey, biophysical properties of reticulospinal (RS) neurons were determined by applying depolarizing and hyperpolarizing current pulses under current clamp conditions. In response to above threshold depolarizing current pulses, almost all RS neurons produced an initial relatively high spiking frequency ( F i ) followed by a variable decay to a steady-state firing frequency ( F ss ). Spike-frequency adaptation (SFA), defined as [( F i − F ss )/ F i ]×100%, was minimal at the lowest currents and more pronounced with larger applied current pulses. Some RS neurons, particularly those in the posterior rhombencephalic reticular nucleus (PRRN), either adapted very quickly, and stopped firing, or fired in short bursts during a constant depolarizing current pulse. Several types of RS neurons, including some Muller cells and unidentified neurons in the middle rhombencephalic reticular nucleus (MRRN), displayed delayed excitation (DE) in which spiking in response to a depolarizing current pulse was delayed if preceded by a hyperpolarizing prepulse. Very few neurons fired action potentials following a hyperpolarizing pulse, such as in the case of post-inhibitory rebound (PIR), and no neurons were found that displayed plateau potentials. The possible contributions of these properties to the descending activation of spinal locomotor networks is discussed.
Science as Goad and Guide for Theology

: The influence of science (including science-based technology) on theology is discussed here within the framework of two assumptions. First, the basic purpose of theology is to serve the mission of the church. In today's world this means that theology must take science seriously in the ways in which it equips the church to do its work. Second, the theology which is most adequate for this purpose is a version of the theology of the cross which emphasizes the concept of divine kenosis. Within this framework, science can be seen as a goad to theology in several areas. Concerns about the environment encourage an ecological emphasis in theology. The interpretation of biblical creation texts is influenced by our knowledge of cosmic and biological history. Awareness of the scientific limitations of some biblical texts encourages us to consider the kenotic character of the inspiration of scripture. Evolution through natural selection seems to demand the kind of divine participation in the sufferings of the world to which a theology of the cross points, and human evolution in particular has implications for theological anthropology. Finally, the ability of science to explain phenomena in the world without reference to God needs to be taken into account when we speak of God's action in the world. These and other topics should be given adequate attention in Christian education at all levels and in preaching, pastoral care and public advocacy by the church.
On-column transient and coupled column isotachophoretic preconcentration of protein samples in capillary zone electrophoresis

Abstract Two strategies for the isotachophoretic preconcentration of samples were evaluated using a standard protein mixture as an example. In the first, on-column transient isotachophoretic migration permits the injection of relatively large volumes of sample into a commercial instrument. Depending on the composition, 30–50% of the column length can be filled with the sample while maintaining good resolution of the sample components. When proper electrolyte compositions are selected, the conventional single-column instrument can be used for an isotachophoretic sample preconcentration of 50-fold or more without any modification. In the second strategy, a coupled-column system was examined which, in principle, provides a higher degree of freedom in the selection of capillary zone electrophoretic running conditions and the possibility of injection of higher sample volumes. The gain in detection level is at least a factor of 1000 in the coupled-column arrangement; however, the instrumentation is more complicated.
The growth of exoerythrocytic stages of avian malaria within diffusion chambers in different hosts.

Abstract Exoerythrocytic stages of Plasmodium gallinaceum and P. fallax from infected chick embryos were placed in chambers made of lucite rings and porous membranes which were inserted intraperitoneally into birds and mice, respectively. The chambers containing P. gallinaceum were made of membranes with pores of 0.45 ± 0.02 μ. Those placed into chickens were allowed to remain from 1 to 14 days then removed. Infections resulted in 11 of 66 chickens which served as recipients of the chambers. Similar chambers were also placed in turkeys and ducks. In the former nine of 11 turkeys either became infected or were proved to have latent infections by subinoculations into chicks, whereas no infections resulted in seven ducks in which the chambers were allowed to remain from 2–14 days. The ability of the parasites (probably the merozoites) to penetrate membranes with pore size of 0.45 ± 0.02 μ is clearly proved by these experiments. Greater foreign-body response around the chambers was observed on the part of chickens than of turkeys. Twenty chambers of the preceding type were placed in chick embryos. In two of these—removed on the 2nd and 5th days—parasites were observed microscopically, the latter one being more heavily infected than any tissue yet observed. The chambers containing chick embryo cells infected with P. fallax were placed into mice and allowed to remain for 3 days to 3 weeks. Membranes of three different pore-sizes were used — HA similar to those used in the experiments with P. gallinaceum , PH (pore-size: 0.3 ± 0.02 μ) and VM (pore-size: 50 ± 3 mμ). At 3-, 7-, 14-, and 21-day intervals the chambers were removed and the contents were subinoculated into turkey poults. The parasites in six of 20 chambers were shown to be viable by these subinoculations—three after 7 days, two after 14 days, and one after 21 days. No infections were observed in the mice. No evidence of survival of the parasites of P. fallax was obtained in a parallel series in which exoerythrocytic stages of this parasite were inoculated directly into mice. These experiments give evidence that the use of porous chambers has promising possibilities for the study of many problems in parasitology.
Movements of Adult Chinook Salmon during Spawning Migration in a Metals-Contaminated System, Coeur d'Alene River, Idaho

Abstract Spawning migration of adult male chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha was monitored by radio telemetry to determine their response to the presence of metals contamination in the South Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River, Idaho. The North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River is relatively free of metals contamination and was used as a control. In all, 45 chinook salmon were transported from their natal stream, Wolf Lodge Creek, tagged with radio transmitters, and released in the Coeur d'Alene River 2 km downstream of the confluence of the South Fork and the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River. Fixed telemetry receivers were used to monitor the upstream movement of the tagged chinook salmon through the confluence area for 3 weeks after release. During this period, general water quality and metals concentrations were monitored in the study area. Of the 23 chinook salmon observed to move upstream from the release site and through the confluence area, the majority (16 fish, 70%) moved up the North Fork, a...
Mixed aggregates of dilithiodiamines with alkyllithiums and lithium enolates

Abstract The formation of mixed aggregates of N , N ′-dilithiodiamines with alkyllithiums and lithium enolates was investigated. Enolization of 3-pentanone with the dilithium salt of N , N ′-dimethyl-1,3-propanediamine generated both the E and Z enolates and the E / Z ratio changed in the presence of a lithium enolate or excess butyllithium. The formation of mixed aggregates was modeled with the B3LYP DFT method and it was found that mixed aggregate formation is energetically favorable. The infrared spectra of dilithio- N , N ′-dimethyl-1,3-propanediamine in the presence of excess butyllithium or lithium enolate are consistent with the formation of mixed aggregates.
A computational and experimental study of coflow laminar methane/air diffusion flames: Effects of fuel dilution, inlet velocity, and gravity

The influences of fuel dilution, inlet velocity, and gravity on the shape and structure of laminar coflow CH4-air diffusion flames were investigated computationally and experimentally. A series of nitrogen-diluted flames measured in the Structure and Liftoff in Combustion Experiment (SLICE) on board the International Space Station was assessed numerically under microgravity (mu g) and normal gravity (1g) conditions with CH4 mole fraction ranging from 0.4 to 1.0 and average inlet velocity ranging from 23 to 90 cm/s. Computationally, the MC-Smooth vorticity-velocity formulation was employed to describe the reactive gaseous mixture, and soot evolution was modeled by sectional aerosol equations. The governing equations and boundary conditions were discretized on a two-dimensional computational domain by finite differences, and the resulting set of fully coupled, strongly nonlinear equations was solved simultaneously at all points using a damped, modified Newton's method. Experimentally, flame shape and soot temperature were determined by flame emission images recorded by a digital color camera. Very good agreement between computation and measurement was obtained, and the conclusions were as follows. (1) Buoyant and nonbuoyant luminous flame lengths are proportional to the mass flow rate of the fuel mixture; computed and measured nonbuoyant flames are noticeably longer than their 1g counterparts; the effect of fuel dilution on flame shape (i.e., flame length and flame radius) is negligible when the flame shape is normalized by the methane flow rate. (2) Buoyancy-induced reduction of the flame radius through radially inward convection near the flame front is demonstrated. (3) Buoyant and nonbuoyant flame structure is mainly controlled by the fuel mass flow rate, and the effects from fuel dilution and inlet velocity are secondary.