cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A survey of applications of an affine invariant norm

A survey of applications of an affine invariant norm to several areas of Computer Aided Geometric Design is presented. The main purpose for using an affine invariant norm is to obtain methods and techniques which are not affected by affine transformations of the input data. This means, for example, that the artificial choices of the origin or the units of measurement should have no effect on the final results of the method. Applications in the areas of scattered data interpolation, knot spacing for parametric curve interpolation, and triangulations and tessellations are covered.
Can Public Apologies Contribute to Place? An Argument for Retribution

In the last decade, representatives of states have been under pressure, to which they have increasingly succumbed, to issue public apologies for the rectification of wrongs. These apologies tend to be spoken to a global audience, and they have repercussions for local and international peace. Especially since the end of the Cold War and the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, democratizing processes have contributed to creating global public forums for retribution--what I will defme, for analytical purposes, as the punishment of wrongdoers and the rewarding of good. Many national governments represent these global forums as threats to the sovereignty of states and the autonomy of national judicial systems. That threat is real, but it is not to the stability of democratizing governments and institutions. What is at stake, rather, is the power of local ruling elites when their positions are premised on a lack ofpublic accountability. Public apologies that have been responses to globally supported local movements tend in tum to stabilize local governments--whenever those governments are regarded as democratically accountable. They stabilize by helping to reestablish the moral authority and impartiality of the national judicial systems, which had been compromised through dictatorial or demagogical rule.
Antimicrobial effects of allyl isothiocyanate and modified atmosphere on Pseduomonas aeruginosa in fresh catfish fillet under abuse temperatures.

The effects of allyl isothiocyanate (AIT; 18 and 36 μg/L) in vapor phase, modified atmosphere (MA; 49% CO2, 0.5% O2, and 50.5% N2), and their combinations on the growth behavior of Pseduomonas aeruginosa in fresh catfish fillet at different abuse temperatures (8, 15, and 20 °C) were evaluated in this study. Lag phase, maximum growth rate, and shelf life were used as parameters to analyze the antimicrobial effects. Both gaseous AIT and MA alone inhibited the growth potential of P. aeruginosa effectively, prolonging the shelf life by 1.5 to 3.4 times compared to the control at abuse temperatures between 8 and 20 °C. The synergistic effect was observed at 8 °C, extending the shelf life of fresh catfish by more than 6.5 times (≥ 550 h). In addition, the maximum growth rate decreased with decreasing storage temperature, but it was not significantly influenced by the addition of AIT or MA. Hence, the combination of AIT and MA may be used as an effective antimicrobial system to reduce the microbial risks due to temperature abuse and to improve the shelf life of fresh catfish fillet. The proper combination of AIT and MA may be further optimized for industrial applications. Practical Application Fresh seafood is a high-value commodity with short shelf life. Abuse temperature during transportation or inappropriate storage condition may create a suitable environment for microorganisms to grow, thus decreasing the shelf life or raising the safety issue of fresh seafood. The technology of using combinations of vapor phase allyl isothiocyanate and modified atmosphere can effectively inhibit the growth of aerobic spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms in fresh catfish fillet, thereby extending the shelf life and increasing the microbial safety of fresh catfish. This technology may also benefit other seafood products.
Tattoo Acquisition: A Prospective Longitudinal Study of Adolescents

This study uses prospective longitudinal data to examine who acquired a first tattoo among a national sample of adolescents (n = 13,101). Results indicate that social bonds, prior deviant involvement, self-protection, and negative self-appraisal all were predictive of tattoo acquisition. Results also show nontrivial differences in the likelihood of tattoo acquisition for different subgroups of adolescents, ranging from 1 in 5 for adolescents who scored high on several risk factors at once to 1 in 160 for those who scored low. Implications for future research on tattoo acquisition among adolescents are discussed.
Endocannabinoid modulation of sympathetic and cardiovascular responses to acute stress in the periaqueductal gray of the rat

Activation of the sympathetic nervous system is fundamental to the coordinated response to stress or danger. The midbrain periaqueductal gray (PAG) contains the neural substrate required to recruit the sympathetic nervous system and organize the physiological and behavioral responses required to respond to imposed challenges. Endocannabinoids have been shown to influence associated behavioral responses. The defense response was used in this study as a working model to examine endocannabinoid modulation of the sympathetic response to acute stress in the anesthetized rat. Microinjection of the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptor agonist anandamide into the defense pathway of the dorsal PAG could elicit an increase in renal sympathetic nerve activity and blood pressure, twitching of the whiskers, and movement of the limbs. The response was attenuated by prior microinjection of the CB1 receptor antagonist AM-281 at the same site. Electrical stimulation of the hypothalamic defense area could evoke similar sympathoexcitatory and pressor responses, which were significantly attenuated by microinjection of AM-281 into the dorsal PAG. These data indicate that endocannabinoids can modulate the sympathetic and cardiovascular components of the acute stress response via CB1 receptors at the level of the PAG.
Anxiety disorders and substance use disorders: Different associations by anxiety disorder

Abstract Anxiety disorders (ADs) and substance use disorders (SUDs) often occur together, but the strength of this association and their apparent order of onset differ across studies. The goals of this study were to examine: (1) which ADs were associated with which SUDs, and (2) among people who experienced both an AD and a SUD, which disorder had an earlier onset. Lifetime diagnoses from the National Comorbidity Survey-Replication ( n = 9282) were used. Social phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and agoraphobia were positively associated with all SUDs. Among people with both an AD and a SUD, the order of onset differed by anxiety type: social phobia nearly always had an onset prior to any SUD; panic disorder and agoraphobia tended to occur prior to some SUDs; and generalized anxiety disorder tended to occur after the onset of at least one SUD. Therefore, all ADs are positively associated with SUDs, but ADs differ in the timing of their onset relative to comorbid SUDs.
Dairy and milk consumption and child growth: Is BMI involved? An analysis of NHANES 1999–2004

Humans are unique among mammals in that many consume cow's milk or other dairy products well beyond the traditional age of weaning. Milk provides various nutrients and bioactive molecules to support growth and development, and the question arises as to whether this dietary behavior influences growth parameters. There is evidence that milk makes positive contributions to growth in height, but its associations with other aspects of body size, such as body mass index (BMI), are not well-established. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data from 1999 to 2004 and multivariate regression analysis were used to test the hypothesis that milk (g) or total dairy product consumption (kJ) is associated with higher BMI percentile among US White, Black, and Mexican-American children of age 2-4 years (n = 1,493) and 5-10 years (n = 2,526). Younger children in the highest quartile of dairy intake had higher BMIs (beta = 7.5-8.0; P < 0.01) than those in the lowest two quartiles. Controlling for energy intake eliminated differences between QIV and QI. Among children of 5-10 years of age dairy intake had no relationship to BMI. Young children in the highest quartile of milk intake had higher BMIs than all lower quartiles (beta = 7.1-12.8; beta = 6.3-11.8 in energy-controlled models; P < 0.05). Among children of 5-10 years of age, those in QIV for milk intake had higher BMIs than those in QII (beta = 8.3; beta = 7.1 in energy-controlled model; P < 0.01). Controlling for total protein or calcium did not change the results. Milk had more consistent positive associations with BMI than did dairy products, and these were strongest among children of 2-4 years of age.
Cancer mortality among workers in abattoirs and meatpacking plants: An update

Workers in abattoirs and meatpacking plants have potential for exposure to bovine leukemia virus (BLV) and bovine papilloma viruses (BPV), which are oncogenic in cattle. These workers also have increased exposure to human papilloma viruses (HPV) and certain chemical carcinogens. We investigated whether such a group showed increased risk of cancers. We report mortality results after an additional 9-year follow-up of a previously studied group of 5,522 workers in abattoirs and 4,589 workers in meatpacking plants. Excess risk of all cancers combined, cancers of the lung, buccal cavity and pharynx, esophagus, colon, bladder, kidney, and bone was observed. Since factors such as tobacco smoking, alcohol, and diet, which have known associations with some of these cancers, were not taken into account, the significance of these findings is not known, except for lung cancer, for which occupational factors are probably involved. Because some of these findings have been consistently reported before, studies that will control for confounding factors as well are now urgently needed.
Chibby, a nuclear β-catenin-associated antagonist of the Wnt/Wingless pathway

Inappropriate activation of downstream target genes by the oncoprotein β-catenin is implicated in development of numerous human cancers1,2. β-catenin and its fruitfly counterpart Armadillo act as a coactivator in the canonical Wnt/Wingless pathway by binding to Tcf/Lef transcription factors3,4,5,6. Here we report a conserved nuclear protein, named Chibby, which was identified in a screen for proteins that directly interact with the C-terminal region of β-catenin. In mammalian cultured cells we demonstrate that Chibby inhibits β-catenin-mediated transcriptional activation by competing with Lef-1 to bind to β-catenin. Inhibition of Drosophila Chibby by RNA interference results in segment polarity defects that mimick a wingless gain-of-function phenotype, and overexpression of the wingless target genes engrailed and Ultrabithorax. In addition, epistasis experiments indicate that chibby acts downstream of wingless and upstream of armadillo.
Rashba effect in an asymmetric quantum dot in a magnetic field

Abstract We derive an expression for the total spin-splitting energy in an asymmetric quantum dot with ferromagnetic contacts, subjected to a transverse electric field. Such a structure has been shown by one of us to act as a spintronic quantum gate with in-built qubit readers and writers (Phys. Rev. B61, 13813 (2000)). The ferromagnetic contacts result in a magnetic field that causes a Zeeman splitting of the electronic states in the quantum dot. We show that this Zeeman splitting can be finely tuned with a transverse electric field as a result of nonvanishing Rashba spin–orbit coupling in an asymmetric quantum dot. This feature is critical for implementing a quantum gate.
‘Perplexities of the rights of man’: Arendt on the aporias of human rights:

This article provides a new interpretation of Hannah Arendt’s critical analysis of the ‘perplexities of the Rights of Man’ by drawing attention to its overlooked methodological orientations, especi...
WHITEFLIES (ALEYRODIDAE) ATTACKING CITRUS IN SOUTHERN TEXAS WITH NOTES ON NATURAL ENEMIES

Five species of whiteflies (Aleyrodidae) were found on citrus in southern Texas: Aleurocanthus woglumi Ashby, Aleurothrixus floccosus (Maskell), Paraleyrodes citri Bondar, Dialeurodes citri (Ashmead), and D. citrifolii (Morgan). Parasite records for this area were Amitus hesperidum Silvestri (Platygastridae) and Prospaltella opulenta Silvestri (both Encyrtidae) attacking A. woglumi; Eretmocerus sp. near paulistus Hem. (Encyrtidae), Amitus sp., and Prospaltella sp. attacking A. floccosus; and Prospaltella sp. attacking P. citri. Predators recorded were Delphastus pusillus (Le Conte) (Coccinellidae) feeding on A. floccosus; D. pusillus and Nephaspis amnicola Wingo (Coccinellidae) feeding on P. citri. A pathogenic fungus, Aschersonia aleyrodis Webber, was found attacking D. citri.
Central and peripheral cardio-respiratory effects of saxitoxin (STX) in urethane-anesthetized guinea-pigs

Abstract F.-C. T. Chang, B. J. Benton, R. A. Lenz and B. R. Capacio . Central and peripheral cardio-respiratory effects of saxitoxin (STX) in urethane-anesthetized guinea-pigs. Toxicon31, 645–664, 1993.—Effects of saxitoxin (STX; 10 μg/kg; i.p.) on cardio-respiratory activites were evaluated in urethane-anesthetized guinea-pigs. Concurrent recordings were made of electrocorticogram (ECoG), bulbar respiratory-related unit activities, diaphragmatic electromyogram (DEMG), electrocardiogram (Lead II ECG), blood pressure, heart rate, end-tidal CO2, arterial O2/CO2 tensions, and arterial pH. The average time to STX-induced respiratory failure was about 10 min. The most striking effect prior to apnea was a state of progressive bradypnea which emerged 5–7 min after the toxin administration. Other noteworthy responses included (i) a time-dependent decrease in ECoG amplitudes which typically began before the development of a bradypneic profile; (ii) an increasing degree of diaphragm neuromuscular blockade; (iii) a state of combined hypercapnia and uncompensated acidemia; (iv) a declining blood pressure; (v) an incrementally dysfunctional myocardial performance; and (vi) an increasingly degenerative central respiratory activity profile which ultimately culminated in a complete loss of central respiratory drive. The therapeutic effect of intratracheally administered oxygen was equivocal in that the cardio-respiratory activities, be they of central of peripheral nature, remained conspicuously dysfunctional and precarious despite 100% oxygen ventilation. What can be inferred from this study is two-fold. First, STX-induced ventilatory insufficiency can be attributed to a loss of functional integrity of both central and peripheral respiratory system components. That is, although diaphragm blockade contributes significantly to STX-induced respiratory failure, analyses of single respiratory unit activity data reveale d that the central respiratory rhythmogenic mechanism also appeared to play a pivotal role in the development of a bradypneic profile which promotes, and directly causes, a complete loss of respiratory drive. Second, a state of unabating depression of central respiratory activities, which seemed to be refractory to the effect of O2, suggests STX has a direct and persistent action on medullary rhythmogenic mechanisms. In conclusion, these findings indicate that both central and peripheral cardio-respiratory components are critically involved in STX-induced apnea, dysfunctional cardiovascular performance, and lethality.
The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone complex

Both the thiazide and loop diuretics have long been known to induce both potassium and magnesium wastage with resultant negative balances of these important intracellular cations. The negative potassium and magnesium balances resulting from diuretic therapy are due primarily to stimulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone complex or secondary hyperaldosteronism. A long experience with an attempt to modify or reduce diuretic-induced potassium depletion by dietary sodium restriction and by the use of antikaluretics has been recorded.
Direct vision internal urethrotomy using topical anesthesia

A consecutive series of 18 patients underwent attempted direct vision internal urethrotomy (DVIU) under topical lidocaine anesthesia. The procedure was completed successfully in 15 of 18 (83%) patients. In these patients 12 of 15 (80%) reported either minimal or no discomfort. Direct vision internal urethrotomy using topical lidocaine anesthesia is a safe and cost effective procedure.
Association between intestinal parasitic infections and type of sanitation system in rural El Salvador.

The objective was to identify demographic behavioural and environmental determinants of intestinal parasitic infection evaluate the impact of a variety of dry sanitation systems on intestinal parasitic infection and evaluate the safety of using stored biosolids in agriculture in order to guide future sanitation interventions in rural areas of El Salvador. Interviews were conducted with 109 households in eight communities where double-vaulted and solar urine-diverting desiccating latrines pit latrines or no latrines were used. Faecal samples from 499 individuals were tested for enteric helminths and protozoa. Users of solar desiccating latrines had the lowest prevalence of enteric parasite infection. Double-vault urine-diverting desiccating latrines effectively reduced the transmission of some pathogens but may not achieve the conditions sufficient for the complete destruction of the more environmentally persistent pathogens Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura. Contact with inadequately treated latrine biosolids was associated with an increased risk of Ascaris infection. Solar latrines were associated with the overall lowest prevalence of enteric parasitic infections. Members of households where latrine biosolids were used in agriculture had a higher prevalence of infection than those where biosolids were buried. We therefore recommend the promotion of solar latrines in rural areas of El Salvador over other dry sanitation systems and recommend that stored biosolids not be used in agriculture. (authors)
Reduction and elimination of encephalitis in an experimental glioma therapy model with attenuated herpes simplex mutants that retain susceptibility to acyclovir.

Abstract Malignant gliomas are the most common malignant brain tumors and are almost universally fatal. A genetically engineered herpes simplex virus-1 mutant with decreased neurovirulence, dlsptk, has been shown to kill human glioma cells in culture and in animal models. However, intracranial inoculation of dlsptk is limited by fatal encephalitis at higher doses. Therefore, additional engineered and recombinant herpes simplex mutants with demonstrated reduced neurovirulence (AraAr9, AraAr13, RE6, R3616) were examined as antiglioma agents. One long-term human glioma cell line and two early-passage human gliomas in culture were destroyed by all four viruses tested. In a subcutaneous glioma model, AraAr13, RE6, and R3616 retained substantial antineoplastic effects in nude mice when compared with controls (one-sided Wilcoxon rank test, P < 0.05 for one or more doses each). When tested in a nude mouse intracranial glioma model, both RE6 and R3616 significantly prolonged average survival without producing premature encephalitic deaths at two doses (log-rank statistic, P < 0.007). Histopathological studies of the brains of surviving animals revealed minimal focal encephalitis in two of three RE6-treated animals and no evidence of encephalitis in either one of three RE6-treated or in three of three R3616-treated animals. No evidence of residual tumor was seen in four of the six surviving animals. Additionally, both RE6 and R3616 were found to be susceptible to the common antiherpetic agent acyclovir, adding to their safety as potential antiglioma agents. Recombinant and engineered viruses that minimize host toxicity and maximize tumoricidal activity merit further study as antineoplastic agents.
Templated Open Flocs of Nanorods for Enhanced Pulmonary Delivery with Pressurized Metered Dose Inhalers

Purpose A novel concept is presented for the formation of stable suspensions composed of low density flocs of high aspect ratio drug particles in hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) propellants, and for subdividing (templating) the flocs with aerosolized HFA droplets to achieve high fine particle fractions with a pressurized metered dose inhaler.
Reduction Potential of the tert-Butylperoxyl Radical in Aqueous Solutions

Rate constants for oxidation of tert-butyl hydroperoxide anion (t-BuO2-) by several oxidants were determined by pulse radiolysis. Rapid oxidation was found with N3• (4.4 × 108 L mol-1 s-1) and •O- ...
Political Networks: The Structural Perspective

1. Politics in structural perspective 2. Voting and political participation 3. Social movements Nancy Wisely 4. Organizational power Naomi J. Kaufman 5. Community power structures 6. Elites in the nation state 7. International relations Jodi Burmeister-May 8. Toward a structural political economy Appendix References Index.
Triggers of eating in everyday life

Understanding the triggers of eating in everyday life is crucial for the creation of interventions to promote healthy eating and to prevent overeating. Here, the proximal predictors of eating are explored in a natural setting. Research from laboratory settings suggests that restrained eaters overeat after experiencing anxiety, distraction, and the presence of positive or negative moods, but not hunger; whereas the only factor that triggers eating in unrestrained eaters is hunger. In this study, 137 female participants reported hourly for 2 days on these potential predictors and their eating using electronic diaries, allowing us to establish the relationships between these factors while participants went about their normal daily activities. The main outcome variables were the number of servings eaten and whether or not food was eaten. Contrary to findings from laboratory settings, in everyday life restrained eaters (1) did not overeat in response to anxiety; (2) ate less in the presence of positive or negative moods; and (3) ate more in response to hunger. The relationships between these factors and eating among unrestrained eaters were closer to those found in laboratory settings. In conclusion, predictors of eating must be studied in everyday life to develop successful interventions.
Performance of carbon dioxide vent for direct methanol fuel cells

Abstract Direct methanol fuel cells have potentially high energy density if the balance of plant and fuel losses can be kept to a minimum. CO2 accumulation in the fuel tank can lower the efficiency and performance of closed-tank methanol fuel cells. This report discusses the implementation of a passive CO2 vent fabricated with poly(1-trimethyl silyl propyne) and 1,6-divinylperfluorohexane. The performance of the membrane as a selective vent for carbon dioxide in the presence of methanol has been studied at various operating conditions. First, the selectivity of the vent membrane improved with temperature. Second, the activation energy for permeation through the polymer membrane corresponded to diffusion controlled transport of CO2 and sorption controlled transport for methanol vapor. The activation energy for CO2 transport through the poly(1-trimethyl silyl propyne) and 1,6-divinylperfluorohexane membrane was less than that for a pure poly(1-trimethyl silyl propyne) membrane. Finally, the polymer had a high selectivity for carbon dioxide compared to both liquid and vapor phase methanol.
Formation of intramolecular rings in ferramonocarbollide complexes.

Addition of PPh2Cl and Tl[PF6] to CH2Cl2 solutions of [N(PPh3)2][6,6,6-(CO)3-closo-6,1-FeCB8H9] (1) affords the isomeric B-substituted species [6,6,6-(CO)3-n-(PHPh2)-closo-6,1-FeCB8H8] [n = 7 (2a) ...
A central limit theorem for the asymmetric simple exclusion process

Abstract We establish a central limit theorem for the density fluctuations of a one dimensional particle system known as the totally asymmetric simple exclusion process (TASEP). Because of our method in this article, it is more convenient to regard TASEP as a growth model. Let the configuration space Γ consists of functions h : Z → Z such that 0⩽h(i+1)−h(i)⩽1 for all i∈ Z . With rate one, each h(i) increases by one unit provided that the resulting configuration does not leave the configuration space; otherwise the growth is suppressed. We establish a central limit theorem for the rescaled height function u e (x,t)=eh([ x e ], t e ) where x∈ R , [ x e ] denotes the integer part of x e , and h(·,t) denotes the configuration after t seconds. We assume that initially, the probability law of ue(x,0) is the same as g(x)+ e B(x)+ o ( e ) for a continuous function g and a continuous random process B(·). It is expected that at later times, the rescaled process ue(x,t) can be stochastically represented as u (x,t)+ e Z(x,t)+ o ( e ) where ū is the unique solution of the Hamilton–Jacobi equation u t = u x (1− u x ) with the initial condition u (·,0)=g(·) , and Z(x,t) is a random process that is given by a variational expression involving B(·). This will be established if g is piecewise convex. We also define a random lattice curve as a microscopic backward characteristic curve and prove a law of large numbers for it.
Sex differences, communication consistency, and judgments of sexual harassment in a performance appraisal interview

Survey research indicates that the problem of sexual harassment in organizations is both significant and widespread. Judgments of sexual harassment appear to be influenced, however, by the sex of the judge and the actions of the perpetrator. In this factorial design survey, the effects of the target's communication behavior and the sex of the judge on judgments of sexual harassment were examined. Judges were presented with vignettes which varied the verbal and nonverbal responses of the target to the perpetrator to create conditions of consistent and inconsistent communication. The results provided some support for the hypothesis that judges would perceive more sexual harassment, would disapprove of the perpetrator more, and would approve of the target more, as the target's responses to the perpetrator were increasingly negative. Although judgments of sexual harassment were not affected by the sex of the judge, female judges showed more disapproval of the perpetrator than did male judges. The essay offers...
Metal-mediated dearomatization leading to 2-azaspiro[4.5]decanes via tandem nucleophilic aromatic addition–Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons olefination–oxidative demetalation sequences

Abstract A ruthenium-mediated dearomatization sequence has been developed that delivers structurally intriguing azaspirolactam products in stereoselective fashion. Treatment of (η6-arene)Ru(cyclopentadienyl) complexes bearing N-benzyl-β-amido phosphonate side chains with excess NaH results in intramolecular nucleophilic aromatic addition to the ipso position of the coordinated arenes. Subsequent Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons (HWE) reaction with added aldehydes affords olefinated spirolactam cyclohexadienyl ruthenium complexes. Mild oxidation with CuCl2 or CuBr2 under CO effects removal and recovery of the CpRu(II) fragment. Substituents present on the cyclohexadienyl skeleton influence the outcome of demetalation and products obtained in this study include functionalized 2-azaspiro[4.5]decanes and tetrahydroisoquinolinones.
Understanding the response of winter cereals to freezing stress through freeze-fixation and 3D reconstruction of ice formation in crowns

One of the more difficult aspects of discovering mechanisms involved in winterhardiness is detecting where ice is formed and how it interacts with tissues in the frozen state. Many tissues recover and change shape during thawing which prevents a clear picture of ice formation and how individual cells might have responded to this form of stress. Cryo-sectioning and related techniques, while providing valuable information, only allow a two-dimensional view of what is in fact, a three-dimensional phenomenon. In this study, an established freeze-fixation protocol was used in conjunction with histology to visualize empty spaces or voids created by ice within crowns of oat. Images of sections were aligned and background color was cleared to provide 3D visualization of voids that had formed within tissues as a result of freezing. Reconstruction in 3 dimensions revealed that ice had formed continuously in the roots but terminated at the root-shoot junction. This supports previous research that a barrier exists at the base of the crown in freezing tolerant cultivars of winter cereals. In addition, ice-induced voids within the crown were narrow and vertically inclined; they did not form large spherical shapes as had previously been suggested from two-dimensional analysis. Within apical regions of the crown, voids always formed just below the epidermis on what would eventually become the lower surface of the leaf. The 3D structure of these formations resembled a curtain with a termination point at the top of the transition zone and which extended continuously into the leaves. These results suggest that multiple mechanisms must be operative concurrently for the crown to survive. This underscores the need for a variety of approaches that includes clear and detailed observational data to fully comprehend winter survival of cereal crops.
Cisplatin up-regulates the adenosine A1 receptor in the rat kidney

Abstract Cisplatin, a widely used anticancer drug, produces significant oto- and nephrotoxicity. Previous data from our laboratory, using cultured cell lines, indicated that cisplatin increases the expression of the adenosine A1 receptor subtype through generation of reactive oxygen species and activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Since the adenosine A1 receptor plays an important role in normal renal physiology, this study was performed to determine whether cisplatin modulates adenosine A1 receptor expression in vivo and whether these receptors play a role in the nephrotoxicity. Male Sprague–Dawley rats, treated with cisplatin (8 mg/kg), developed nephrotoxicity within 3 days, as demonstrated by increased serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen. Cisplatin also produced a significant increase in malondialdehyde, apoptosis and necrosis in the kidney. The above changes were associated with a time-dependent increase in the expression of adenosine A1 receptor, as determined by radioligand binding assays, Western blotting and immunocytochemistry, and an increase in adenosine A1 receptor transcripts. Administration of selective and nonselective antagonists of the adenosine A1 receptor produced either no change or exacerbated the nephrotoxicity produced by cisplatin. These data indicate that cisplatin can regulate the adenosine A1 receptor in the kidney and suggest a cytoprotective role of this receptor subtype against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.
Psychosocial aspects of chronic daily headache.

The objective was to investigate possible psychosocial factors in chronic daily headache (HA) by comparing those with chronic daily HA to matched patients with chronic episodic HA and to matched non–HA controls. Although there is some research on psychosocial factors in chronic daily HA, it is conflicting and none to date has compared such patients to both an episodic HA control and a non–HA control. Nineteen patients with chronic daily HA (less than 2% of 4–times–per–day HA ratings were zero) were compared to 19 HA patients matched on age, gender and nominal IHS diagnoses, and to 16 similarly matched non–HA controls on measures of psychological distress (MMPI, BDI, STAI), measures of life stress (major past events, hassles, prospective daily stress) and quality of life (SF–36). Those with chronic daily HA were significantly more distressed and had significantly poorer function on most measures relative to non–HA controls. Although there were many arithmetic trends for chronic daily HA to be more distressed and to function less well than those with episodic HA, only on the depression and social introversion scales of the MMPI and the overall vitality rating of the SF–36 were the differences significant. All three groups had comparable levels of life stress regardless of how it was measured. Those with chronic daily HA have greater levels of psychological distress and poorer quality of life than those with episodic HA or non–HA controls, despite comparable levels of life stress.
Desolvation of enkephalin–H2O clusters ejected from a quickly heated film

Abstract Molecular dynamics simulations have been employed to investigate the volatilization of the enkephalin embedded in a rapidly heated H 2 O film. Simulations are performed for three different energy inputs, 103%, 89% and 69%, to vaporize the entire film. The cluster formed for each system undergoes a fast decomposition. The decomposition leads to a rapid temperature drop and proceeds differently for the different energy inputs. For 103% energy input, the explosive evaporation is the dominant process while, for 69% energy input, the normal evaporation plays a significant role in the cluster decomposition.
Growth and cellular proliferation of antral follicles throughout the follicular phase of the estrous cycle in Meishan gilts.

Meishan gilts were ovariectomized 2 h after an i.v. injection of 5'-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU, a thymidine analogue ; 5 mg/kg body weight) on Days 15-19 of the estrous cycle or 24-30 h after observed estrus (post LH, PLH). All antral follicles ≥3 mm from one ovary were fixed in Carnoy's solution. Granulosa and thecal cell labeling indexes (L1 ; percentage of nuclei staining for BrdU) as well as LI of cells within the basal, middle, and antral thirds of the granulosa cell layer were estimated for each follicle. In addition, antral and granulosa cell layer volume, granulosa cell layer thickness, granulosa cell density, number of granulosa cells, and number of S-phase cells per hour were estimated for each follicle. Mean follicular diameter increased linearly (p < 0.01) from Day 15 to PLH, with a growth rate of 0.77 mm/day. Granulosa and thecal cell LI decreased (p < 0.01) from Day 15 to PLH ; however, granulosa cell L1 was greater ( < 0.01) than thecal cell LI on Days 15 and 16 but less (p < 0.05) than thecal cell LI on Day 19. Follicles collected from PLH gilts contained no labeled granulosa cells. Cells within the basal third of the granulosa cell layer contained fewer ( p < 0.01) labeled nuclei than did cells within the middle or antral thirds. In addition, LI within the basal and middle thirds of the granulosa cell layer decreased (p < 0.01) from Days 15 to 18 and from Days 15 to 17, respectively, whereas LI within the antral third remained constant from Days 15 to 18. Granulosa cell layer thickness was greatest (p < 0.01) on Day 15, then decreased (p < 0.01) and was similar from Day 16 to PLH. Granulosa cell density was similar from Days 15 to 19, then decreased (p < 0.01) for PLH gilts. Antral and granulosa cell layer volumes increased linearly (p < 0.01) from Days 15 to 19 and Day 15 to PLH, respectively, resulting in 2.8 and 1.9 volume doublings and doubling times of 1.4 and 2.7 days, respectively. Number of granulosa cells per follicle increased linearly (p < 0.01) from Day 15 to PLH, resulting in 1.5 cell doublings and a doubling time of 3.3 days. Number of S-phase cells per follicle per hour was similar from Days 15 to 18 and then decreased (p < 0.01) from Day 18 to PLH. In summary, the percentages of proliferating granulosa and thecal cells decreased throughout the final stages of antral follicular development. Differentiation of granulosa cells occurred from the basal to the antral area as follicles matured. We propose that, during the latter stages of follicular development, the rapid increase in follicular diameter resulted primarily from expansion of the antral cavity, whereas increases in the granulosa cell layer volume and number of granulosa cells per follicle maintained a constant granulosa cell layer thickness.
On the full regularity of the free boundary in a class of variational problems

We consider nonnegative minimizers of the functional Jp(u;Ω)=∫ Ω |∇u| p +λ p p Χ {u>0 }, 1 0} ∩Ω has no singularities and is a real analytic hypersurface if p = 2 and n 0 such that the same result holds if p - 2| < ∈ 0 .
Unraveling breast cancer heterogeneity through transcriptomic and epigenomic analysis

Breast cancer diversity is histologically evident as various proliferative benign lesions, in situ carcinomas, and invasive carcinomas that may develop into distant metastases. Breast tumor molecular subtypes have been defined by genome-wide expression microarray technology and reveal associations between genetic alterations and the malignant phenotype. Early work has been conducted to use subtype-specific biomarkers to elucidate targeted treatment options early in the course of breast cancer progression. Additionally, DNA methylation is an epigenetic modification that contributes to breast cancer progression by transcriptionally silencing certain tumor suppressor genes. Among the genes characterized as targets for silencing are well-established tumor suppressors such as RASSF1A, RARB, SFN, and TGM2. Measuring elevated gene copy number and aberrant gene promoter methylation can further facilitate characterization of breast tumor molecular subtype; however, profiling of breast tumors based on epigenetic criteria has yet to be established. Epigenomic analysis has been investigated for clinical applicability, and it has great promise when used in combination with minimally invasive techniques for both diagnostic and prognostic purposes.
Synaptic connections and interactions between area postrema and nucleus tractus solitarius

The purpose of this study was to examine whether there are separate excitatory and inhibitory pathways from the area postrema (AP) to the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) and to examine the synaptic interactions between inputs from the AP and solitary tract (ST) on the NTS neurons. The following observations were made: (1) the predominant projections from the AP to the NTS were excitatory. Among the cells that had AP input, 90% of the cells (43/48) were excited by AP stimulation while 10% (5/48) of the cells were inhibited; (2) inputs from the AP and ST mainly summated occlusively on the NTS neurons, but at near threshold of discharge, the input from one source could facilitate the generation of action potentials induced by the other; and (3) single conditioning stimulation of the AP did not significantly inhibit the NTS neuronal response to ST stimulation, but stimulation of the AP with a train of high frequency stimuli inhibited the response of NTS neurons to ST stimulation and inhibited the evoked response to AP stimulation. The results of this study may help in the understanding of the modulatory role of the AP in the baroreflex and the integration process in the NTS.
Cognitive Consistency of Marketing Managers in Ethical Situations

This study is an empirical investigation to determine if managers are consistent in their ethical decision making. Respondents were evenly distributed among five moral philosophy types. The results suggest that, depending upon the situation, respondents will sometimes change their value structure or their perceived moral philosophy type.
Near infrared light mediated release of doxorubicin using upconversion nanoparticles

Lanthanide doped upconversion nanoparticles grafted with a photocaged analog of doxorubicin allow near IR-release of doxorubicin.
Primary endodermal sinus (yolk sac) tumor of the falciform ligament

Extragonadal yolk sac tumors (YSTs) are uncommon and YSTs of the liver are exceedingly rare, with only three reported cases in the literature. A case is described of primary YST of the falciform ligament extending into the left lobe of the liver in a 14-month-old boy. This is the first reported case of primary YST arising within the falciform ligament. The patient underwent an exploratory laparotomy after presenting with hemoperitoneum. An extremely friable and necrotic tumor was found extending from the falciform ligament into the liver. The tumor was debulked and the patient received 5 months of chemotherapy employing a modified Einhorn regimen. After a partial response to chemotherapy the patient had a second-look laparotomy, at which time a left hepatic lobectomy and en bloc resection of the falciform ligament was performed in order to remove residual tumor. At the present time the patient has no signs of metastases and is alive and well 2 years after his presentation.
HIGH-yield plasma synthesis of luminescent silicon quantum dots

Crystalline silicon quantum dots are of interest for a variety of applications from solid state lighting, to optoelectronic devices, to use as fluorescent tagging agents. Compared to other quantum dot materials, silicon’s appeal lies in its low toxicity and environmental hazard, and its compatibility with silicon technology used for microelectronics.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Effect of Cryoprotectants on Frozen Burbot Fillets and a Comparison with Whitefish Fillets

Burbot fillets (Lota lota) were injected with sodium tripolyphosphate (STP), sodium glutamate (MSG), a high pH buffer or an antioxidant mixture (BHA, propyl gallate and citric acid) under high pressure, then frozen and stored at −12°C. Control samples included untreated fillets stored at −12°C and −60°C, and STP dipped fillets. Samples treated with STP or the high-pH buffer had better textural properties than untreated control samples. Samples injected with STP exhibited no improvement as compared to the dipped STP samples and in some respects were worse. Burbot and whitefish have very different textural properties; however, the patterns of change during frozen storage are quite similar.
Viscous Damping Characteristics of Dacron Parachute Suspension-Line Cord

The experimental data has been tabulated by Coleman. The measurements of normal force coefficient, CN, for the flat delta and caret wing models are compared with each other and with some theoretical predictions in Fig. 2. The caret wing develops significantly higher values of CN than does the flat delta. Near the caret design incidence (a = 34°) the experimental values agree well with the two-dimensional (wedge) prediction whereas, at the same incidence, CN for the delta wing corresponds more closely to the cone value. Similar comments were found to apply to the measured shock wave angles. Simple Newtonian theory (Cp = 2 sina) also gives a good estimate of CN for the flat delta over the incidence range considered, but tends towards underestimation at low a and overestimation at high a. The agreement of Squire's prediction for the caret wing is striking, but for the flat delta his method is less successful. The lift coefficients (CL) developed by the two models are compared in Fig. 3; the superiority of the caret wing over the entire incidence range is clear. Both shapes develop maximum lift around 50° incidence, corresponding to L/D ~ 0.7.
The historical record of air pollution as defined by attic dust

Abstract The use of undisturbed attic dust as a tool for reconstructing historical air pollution was evaluated in this study. Dust collected from the attic of 201 houses in New Jersey, built between 1879 and 1995, was analyzed for lead with ICP-MS to validate the use of this method. The results were matched to an estimated pattern of the lead concentrations in attic dust, that was based upon historical data on lead gasoline consumption and emissions into the ambient air. In spite of the numerous uncertainties implied in such a comparison, the pattern of lead concentrations found in the attic dust approximated, within intervals of about 10 years, the time course of the lead emissions into the air. 137Cs concentrations were measured in the attic dust samples using gamma spectrometry to investigate the possibility of a local source contaminating the ambient air in Dover Township, NJ. No statistical differences in 137Cesium concentrations were found between the attics in Dover Township and other locations in NJ. The 137Cs concentrations measured in all locations were found to increase with the age of the house. The observed dependence of 137Cs concentrations on the age of the house could be explained primarily by the patterns of radionuclide fallout that has occurred over time because of above ground nuclear weapons testing during the 1950s and 1960s.
Electrical properties of exfoliated‐graphite filled polyethylene composites

An experimental study has been carried out to prepare and characterize high density polyethylene-based composites filled with exfoliated graphite particles of varied aspect ratios. It has been demonstrated that the dielectric constant of the composite correlates with the in situ volumetric fraction of the compressible exfoliated filler particles. The dielectric constant has been found to range from 2.23 to 125. The minimum electrical resistivity of the composites obtained was 0.1 Ω.cm at a graphite content of 40 percent by volume. The use of these composites is intended in electromagnetic radiation interference (EMI) shielding.
A computer-oriented system for high-speed recording of operant behavior.

Abstract A method is described by which large quantities of data, generated at high and variable rates from a large number of test boxes, are recorded on a single eight-channel punched paper tape. The data, which include a record of the occurrence time of each event in 1/10-sec units, are in a compact form, suitable for conversion to standard Hollerith punched card codes and for decoding and summarizing by a large digital computer. Experience with the system has demonstrated a high degree of accuracy and reliability, and low operating cost.
Lactic acid–magnesium oxide nanocrystal interactions: how nanoparticle size and shape affect chemistry and template oligomerization

L-Lactic acid was allowed to react with small amounts of commercial MgO, Nanoactive®, and Nanoactive Magnesium Oxide Plus® particles, each of which differs in surface area, shape, and reactivity. The reactions were carried out by refluxing the nanoparticles in a solvent suspension of methanol or propanol. Upon addition of the lactic acid monomer, at reflux temperature, two reactions competed with each other: (1) acid–base to yield magnesium lactate salt, and (2) oligomerization to yield a nanocomposite prepolymer. The products were characterized for thermal, chemical, and morphological properties. Additionally, titrations were performed to determine how much MgO was consumed by the acid, and how this changed with nanoparticle size and shape. Polymerization appears to initiate on the surface of the magnesium oxide particles, the results of which are physically unique composites of lactic acid and magnesium oxide, and final properties depend on MgO nanoparticle characteristics. One of the most interesting results was the finding that larger, less reactive MgO favored the acid–base neutralization reaction, while smaller, more reactive MgO particles favored the MgO induced oligomerization pathway.
Induction of Apoptosis by Telomere 3′ Overhang-Specific DNA

Telomeres are tandem repeats of a specific TTAGGG nucleotide sequence at the ends of chromosomes. Telomere shortening is proposed to act as a biological clock and cancer prevention mechanism by inducing a nonproliferative, senescent phenotype after a limited number of cellular divisions. Recent evidence also suggests that telomere disruption can trigger apoptosis in certain cell types, mimicking a major cellular response to DNA damage. Here, we show that addition of DNA oligonucleotides homologous to the telomere 3' overhang sequence causes lymphocytic (Jurkat) cells to undergo apoptosis, as described for lymphocytes following telomere loop disruption. We further implicate the p53 tumor suppressor and transcription factor, as well as the p53 homolog p73 and the E2F1 transcription factor, in mediating the apoptotic response. We propose that exposure of the telomere 3' overhang due to opening of the normal telomere loop structure is a physiologic signal for these DNA damage-like responses in vivo and that oligonucleotides partially or completely homologous to the telomere overhang mimic this signal in the absence of DNA damage or telomere disruption.