cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Atorvastatin Restores Endothelial Function in Normocholesterolemic Smokers Independent of Changes in Low-Density Lipoprotein

Cigarette smoking impairs endothelial function. Hydroxymethylglutaryl (HMG) CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) may favorably affect endothelial function via nonlipid mechanisms. We tested the hypothesis that statins would improve endothelial function independent of changes in lipids in cigarette smokers. Twenty normocholesterolemic cigarette smokers and 20 matched healthy control subjects were randomized to atorvastatin 40 mg daily or placebo for 4 weeks, washed out for 4 weeks, and then crossed-over to the other treatment. Baseline low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels were similar in smokers and healthy subjects, 103+/-22 versus 95+/-27 mg/dL, respectively (P=NS) and were reduced similarly in smokers and control subjects by atorvastatin, to 55+/-30 and 58+/-20 mg/dL, respectively (P=NS). Vascular ultrasonography was used to determine brachial artery, flow-mediated, endothelium-dependent, and nitroglycerin-mediated, endothelium-independent vasodilation. To elucidate potential molecular mechanisms that may account for changes in endothelial function, skin biopsy specimens were assayed for eNOS mRNA, eNOS activity, and nitrotyrosine. Endothelium-dependent vasodilation was less in smokers than nonsmoking control subjects during placebo treatment, 8.0+/-0.6% versus 12.1+/-1.1%, (P=0.003). Atorvastatin increased endothelium-dependent vasodilation in smokers to 10.5+/-1.3% (P=0.017 versus placebo) but did not change endothelium-dependent vasodilation in control subjects (to 11.0+/-0.8%, P=NS). Endothelium-independent vasodilation did not differ between groups during placebo treatment and was not significantly affected by atorvastatin. Multivariate analysis did not demonstrate any association between baseline lipid levels or the change in lipid levels and endothelium-dependent vasodilation. Cutaneous nitrotyrosine levels and skin microvessel eNOS mRNA, but not ENOS activity, were increased in smokers compared with controls but unaffected by atorvastatin treatment. Atorvastatin restores endothelium-dependent vasodilation in normocholesterolemic cigarette smokers independent of changes in lipids. These results are consistent with a lipid-independent vascular benefit of statins but could not be explained by changes in eNOS message and tissue oxidative stress. These findings implicate a potential role for statin therapy to restore endothelial function and thereby investigate vascular disease in cigarette smokers.
Slang Usage of French by Young Americans.

This study describes reactions of native French speakers to usage of French slang by young American students. The author conducted interviews in several areas of France and French Switzerland where participants rated thirty tape-recorded slang expressions ranging in nonstandard usage from very familiar to rather vulgar. The possible reactions, “tres mauvais gout” (very bad taste), “un peu incorrect” (socially inappropriate) or “langage normal” (acceptable speech), were scored one, two, and three, respectively, and mean scores were calculated for each expression. The French listeners were also asked to express their opinions generally about the use of slang, both by native speakers and by foreigners. Reactions to the thirty slang expressions were evaluated relative to the sex, profession, age, and residence of the respondents as well as for the sample as a whole. Results show attitudes definitely critical of the use of slang in general, even though some of the expressions approached acceptability. The findings of the study suggest a need for discrimination in slang language usage in French classrooms and in the curriculum. While an awareness of some slang expressions can increase students' understanding of everyday French, the active use of most French slang by our students may evoke negative reactions on the part of native speakers.
On the economic assessment and optimization of energy storage systems

Abstract A method is described for the economic optimization and comparative evaluation of various energy storage systems in a given application. The method is particularly useful in examining the economics of devices with short lifetimes and can be employed whenever a device lifetime can be expressed as a function of physical parameters which are related to the manner in which the device is used. Given a detailed description of the pattern of use of the device in the application, the device lifetime can be calculated. The economic consequences of changes in lifetime result from the dependence of the capital recovery factor on device lifetime. It is shown how analyses can be made of changes in technical performance characteristics or changes in the pattern of use of the storage device to determine their effects upon the annual cost of energy storage and to determine minimum cost systems.
Mutually orthogonal Latin squares based on general linear groups

Given a finite group G, how many squares are possible in a set of mutually orthogonal Latin squares based on G? This is a question that has been answered for a few classes of groups only, and for no nonsoluble group. For a nonsoluble group G, we know that there exists a pair of orthogonal Latin squares based on G. We can improve on this lower bound when G is one of GL(2, q) or SL(2, q), q a power of 2, q ≠ 2, or is obtained from these groups using quotient group constructions. For nonsoluble groups, that is the extent of our knowledge. We will extend these results by deriving new lower bounds for the number of squares in a set of mutually orthogonal Latin squares based on the group GL(n, q), q a power of 2, q ≠ 2.
The spatial development of transient couette flow and shear wave propagation in polymeric liquids by flow birefringence

Abstract In this paper the method of polarization modulated flow birefringence is us used to analyze the spatial and temporal dependence of the inception and cessation of Couette flow of polymeric liquids. Data are presented for both a Newtonian but birefringent polybutene oil and two solutions of poly(oxyethylene). The stress-optical rule is used to obtain the corresponding 'shear and normal stresses as functions of both time and space. The data for the Newtonian fluid are compared with analytical solutions to the momentum equations and are found to accurately follow the theoretical predictions. The polymer solutions, on the other hand, show a complex response with evidence for shear stress propagation as a wave of finite, constant speed. The measured wave speeds agree well with recent data reported by Joseph. Riccius and Arney [JFM 171(1986)309] on the same polymer solutions.
New Media and Aesthetics

Technology and aesthetics have not always been easy interlocutors, especially when 'the technological' is associated with artificiality and technique. However, prior to Benjamin's seminal text, in the 1920s Soviel artists celebrated available technologies because they saw them as 'more democratic' - that is, capable of communicating to a wider audience Today, once again, we need to think through constructivist political and theoretical appropriations of new technology, especially in the form of new media'.
Opioid receptor upregulation in μ-opioid receptor deficient CXBK and outbred Swiss Webster mice

Chronic in vivo treatment with opioid antagonists increases opioid receptor density and the potency of opioid agonists without altering receptor mRNA levels. To determine if basal receptor density affects opioid receptor upregulation, we examined the effect of chronic naltrexone treatment on mu-opioid receptor density and mRNA in two mice strains that differ in mu-opioid receptor density. CXBK mice (mu-opioid receptor deficient) and outbred Swiss Webster mice were implanted s.c. with a placebo or 15 mg naltrexone pellet for 8 days, the pellets removed and 24 hr later opioid receptor density (mu, delta) and receptor mRNA level (mu) determined in whole brain; or morphine dose-response studies conducted. In placebo-treated CXBK mice, mu-opioid receptor density was approximately 40% less than in Swiss Webster mice, although mu-opioid receptor mRNA abundance was similar in both strains. In placebo-treated CXBK mice, morphine potency was approximately 6-fold less than Swiss Webster mice. Naltrexone treatment increased morphine potency (1.7-fold) and mu- (approximately 90%) and delta- (approximately 20-40%) opioid receptor density in CXBK and Swiss Webster mouse brain similarly. Mu-opioid receptor mRNA was unchanged by naltrexone treatment in either strain. There was no difference in the basal or naltrexone-treated whole brain G(i alpha2) protein levels in CXBK or Swiss Webster mouse. These data indicate that a deficiency in mu-opioid receptors does not alter the regulation of opioid receptors by opioid antagonists in vivo, and suggest that adaptive responses to chronic opioid antagonist treatment are independent of opioid receptor density.
S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) protects against acute alcohol induced hepatotoxicity in mice☆ ☆

Although S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) has beneficial effects in many hepatic disorders, the effects of SAMe on acute alcohol-induced liver injury are unknown. In the present study, we investigated effects of SAMe on liver injury in mice induced by acute alcohol administration. Male C57BL/6 mice received ethanol (5 g/kg BW) by gavage every 12 hrs for a total of 3 doses. SAMe (5 mg/kg BW) was administrated i.p. once a day for three days before ethanol administration. Subsequent serum ALT level, hepatic lipid peroxidation, enzymatic activity of CYP2E1 and hepatic mitochondrial glutathione levels were measured colorimetrically. Intracellular SAMe concentration was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Histopathological changes were assessed by H&E staining. Our results showed that acute ethanol administration caused prominent microvesicular steatosis with mild necrosis and an elevation of serum ALT activity. SAMe treatment significantly attenuated the liver injury. In association with the hepatocyte injury, acute alcohol administration induced significant decreases in both hepatic SAMe and mitochondrial GSH levels along with enhanced lipid peroxidation. SAMe treatment attenuated hepatic SAMe and mitochondrial GSH depletion and lipid peroxidation following acute alcohol exposure. These results demonstrate that SAMe protects against the liver injury and attenuates the mitochondrial GSH depletion caused by acute alcohol administration. SAMe may prove to be an effective therapeutic agent in many toxin-induced liver injuries including those induced by alcohol.
Barriers to treatment adherence among African American and white women with systemic lupus erythematosus

Objective To determine whether African Americans with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have poorer treatment adherence than whites, and to determine ethnic group differences in barriers to adherence, and how barriers affect adherence. Methods We compared 68 African American and 54 white women with SLE on 19 potential barriers, on 2 adherence behaviors during the past year, and on how the potential barriers relate to each nonadherence behavior. Results African Americans and whites were similar on most barriers, although African Americans were more likely to rely on religion and were more concerned about long-term medication effects. The 2 ethnic groups were comparable on medication nonadherence, but whites tended to have poorer clinic appointment adherence than African Americans. Finally, we found that barriers related to negative affect (depression, medication concerns, physical symptoms) as well as short-term memory problems and the need for child or elder care were associated with nonadherence among African Americans, whereas perceived treatment inefficacy and lacking trust in physicians were associated with nonadherence among whites. Conclusion Relationships between adherence barriers and nonadherence may be ethnicity specific, suggesting that interventions to address barriers should be targeted to specific groups.
Structural and Morphological Transitions in Gold Nanorods: A Computer Simulation Study

When gold nanorods are exposed to low-energy laser pulses, they can undergo shape transitions at temperatures below melting. In the present study such transitions are reproduced in molecular dynamics simulations of gold nanorods consisting of 103−104 atoms. We find that the shape change is accompanied by a structural change. On the basis of the simulation results, a mechanism is suggested that explains the intermediate products and the internal defects of gold nanorods observed in laser heating experiments.
On the stability of wholesale electricity markets under real-time pricing

The paper proposes a mathematical model for the dynamic evolution of supply, demand, and clearing prices under a class of real-time pricing mechanisms characterized by passing on the real-time wholesale prices to the end consumers. The effects that such mechanisms could pose on the stability and efficiency of the entire system is investigated and several stability criteria are presented. It is shown that relaying the real-time wholesale electricity prices to the end consumers creates a closed loop feedback system which could be unstable or lack robustness, leading to extreme price volatility. Finally, a result is presented which characterizes the efficiency losses incurred when, in order to achieve stability, the wholesale prices are adjusted by a static pricing function before they are passed on to the retail consumers.
Analysis of heat flux measurement by circular foil gages in a mixed convection/radiation environment

Principles of heat flux measurement by circular foil heat flux sensors, also known as Gardon gages, are analyzed when the gages are subjected to a mixed convective/radiative heat flux. The specific objective of this work is to present the analysis and a methodology for estimating the error in the measurement of mixed convective-radiative heat flux, which is the difference between the true surface-sensed heat flux and the flux determined from the gage output using a calibration based on purely radiative heat flux.
Biogenesis of tritiated and carbon-14 methane from low-level radioactive waste☆

Abstract Methane bacteria were detected in leachate samples collected from commercial low-level radioactive waste disposal sites. Significant amounts of tritiated and carbon-14 methane were generated by a mixed methanogenic culture from a leachate sample collected from the low-level radioactive waste disposal site, Maxey Flats, KY. Tritiated methane was produced by methane bacteria from synthetic media containing 2 mCi of tritium as tritiated water or tritiated acetate, and the level of tritium added to the medium had no effect on methanogenesis. Under anaerobic conditions the organic compounds containing 14C and 3H activity and tritiated water in the waste are metabolized by microorganisms and they produce radioactive gases which escape into the environment from the disposal sites.
EGS4 calculations of the dose to the electronic equipment in the PEP-II ring

Abstract The radiation doses to the electronic devices placed under the HER (High Energy Ring) in the PEP-II storage ring were calculated using the EGS4 code. The doses result from a 4-GeV positron and a 10-GeV electron beam uniformly lost around the ring. The annual particle loss per beam was 6.1 × 10 17 , including both stored beam loss and injection loss. The vacuum chambers (the targets for beam losses) of the LER (Low Energy Ring) and the HER were 1-cm-thick aluminum and 0.5-cm-thick copper, respectively. The shielding from the C-shaped iron bending magnet and the aluminum coil windings of the HER was considered. Both vacuum chambers were located about 1 m from the left wall of the ring (modeled as a 3.5 m wide, 2.9 m high and 100 m long tunnel and with a concrete wall thickness of 60 cm). The LER was 90 cm above the HER, which was 80 cm above the floor. The calculations show that the electronic devices need to be shielded on the left side by 1-cm-thick iron for the dose to remain below a damage threshold of 10 4 rad, when integrated over a ten-year period. The dose from non-uniform stored beam loss around the ring, due to high vacuum pressure in local regions from the ion avalanche effect, is also analyzed and reported in the Appendix A.
Review of the Pathophysiology and Management of Postoperative Ileus

Investigations in the pathophysiology and treatment of postoperative ileus continue to evolve. Bowel rest is no longer a mandatory component of postoperative recovery. Tolerance of enteral nutrition and normalization of the abdominal examination are more accurate indications of the resolution of postoperative ileus than passage of flatus or first bowel movement. A multimodal "fast track" recovery approach incorporated into a clinical pathway provides a more rapid return of intestinal function and shortened hospital stay in patients undergoing major, uncomplicated gastrointestinal surgery.
Optimization of methods for the generation of carbodiimides for zwitterionic 1,3-diaza-Claisen rearrangements

Abstract Strained, tertiary, allylic, amine 2-benzyl-2-azabicyclo[2.2.1]hept-5-ene reacts with in situ generated carbodiimides in a 1,3-diaza-Claisen rearrangement to afford structurally interesting bicyclic guanidines. Use of more electron deficient carbodiimides makes these rearrangements more facile; however, there are not sufficient methods for the synthesis of highly electron deficient carbodiimides. Herein reported is the exploration of the synthesis of such carbodiimides from parent ureas and isothioureas and their use in 1,3-diaza-Claisen rearrangements.
Submillimeter astronomy investigation of line spectra (SAILS): a balloon-borne instrument

The Submillimeter Astronomy Investigation of Line Spectra is a balloon-borne experiment under study for a 100 day ultra- long duration balloon mission. The experiment would survey the galactic plane with 1 arc minute angular resolution and 1 km/sec velocity resolution in the important submillimeter lines of CII, NII, and OI. These tracers provide the structure and energetics of major components of the interstellar medium. This knowledge is crucial for understanding the life cycle of the Galactic gas and the processes of star formation and galactic evolution. This instrument's survey of large regions of the galactic plane complements both FIRST and SOFIA which will excel at pointed observations with higher angular resolution and broader spectral coverage. Details of the instrument design and observing strategy are presented.
Cultured human skin fibroblasts and arterial cells produce a labile platelet-inhibitory prostaglandin.

Abstract Human skin fibroblasts and cells cultured from human arterial smooth muscle produce a platelet-inhibitory prostaglandin in response to mechanical trauma. This prostaglandin is synthesized from an endogenous precursor rather than exogenous cyclic endoperoxides; it differs from PGE 1 and PGD 2 and resembles PGI 2 (prostacyclin) in its stability properties, being stable at pH ≥ 8.5 and labile at pH 7.4 and below. The prostaglandin synthesis pathway in these cultured cells is less sensitive to inhibition by aspirin than that in human platelets.
Eigenmode Based Simulation of Quantum Cascade Laser Sources in Pulsed Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy

A numerical simulation of pulsed Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy using Quantum Cascade Laser sources is presented. The effects of a theoretical absorption feature on energy output and ring-down time constants are investigated.
TU‐A‐116‐04: A Method for Deriving Exam‐Specific Target Exposure Indices (TEI) in Computed Radiography as a Function of a Reference TEI

Purpose: Determining appropriate target exposure index (TEI) values is one of the major barriers in the clinical efficacy of the IEC deviation index (DI). The goal of this work was to isolate the impact of exam group on TEI and thus derive TEI‐subgroups for Agfa CR that would enable target values to be more easily established from a single reference value. Methods: Data were exported from 13 Agfa NX workstations (software versions 8600 and 8700SU1) at 8 sites affiliated with Shimadzu RadSpeed radiographic rooms (generator UD150V‐40) using Agfa CR. XML files were imported into MATLAB and 147,619 dose statistics were analyzed. The DI for TEI(ref)=400 (DI(ref) = 10*log10(EI/TEI(ref))) was calculated for each data point. The distribution in DI(ref) was normal for each exam group. Variance was independent of TEI (ref). The mean ‐ DI (ref,k,i) ‐ and standard deviation ‐ SD(DI(ref,k,i) )‐were calculated for each workstation i and exam group k. DI(ref,k) was determined from the average of DI(ref,k,i) weighted by number of exams acquired for that exam group on each workstation. A bin width of ΔDI(ref) =1 was used to create TEI subgroups. Results: Exam groups were binned into seven subgroups centered on DI(ref,k) =[−2,−1,0,1,2,3,4] corresponding to linear scaling factors K(ref,k) =[0.6,0.8,1.0,1.3,1.6,2.0,2.5]. Standard error of the mean was <0.1 for all DI(ref,k) except one, which would have allowed for finer sub‐group binning. SD(DI(ref,k) ) ranged from 0.75 to 2.68, and was not correlated with DI(ref,k) (r2=0.003). Conclusion: Little guidance exists for the establishment of TEI tables as function of anatomy and view. The described methodology demonstrates how TEI values can be derived from a single reference value using measured scaling factors (TEI(k) =TEIref*K(ref,k) ). Seven TEI subgroups were established for Agfa CR. Vendor‐specific volume of interest algorithms and detector type will likely affect measured scaling factors. Determination of an appropriate TEI(ref) requires further evaluation.
Adjacency and attention as determiners of perceived motion

Abstract Motion induction was investigated as a function of depth adjacency and attention. Moving induction objects producing opposing induction effects in a test object were presented simultaneously at different distances in the visual field with the apparent distance of the test object varied relative to the induction objects. In agreement with the adjacency principle, it was found that separating the test and induction object in apparent depth decreased the induction effect. Instructions to attend to one and to ignore the other induction object while looking at the test object clearly modified the induction effect and accounted for about half of the total effect produced by depth adjacency. The results are discussed in terms of the measurement of attention and the ability to perceptually organize the visual world.
Draft Genome Sequences of Staphylococcus aureus Sequence Type 34 (ST34) and ST42 Hybrids

Staphylococcus aureus is a major cause of antimicrobial-resistant infections of humans. Hybrids of S. aureus, which originate from large-scale chromosomal recombinations between parents of distinct genetic backgrounds, are of interest from clinical and evolutionary perspectives. We present draft genome sequences of two S. aureus hybrids of sequence type 34 (ST34) and ST42.
Primary malignant fibrous histiocytoma of the pancreas

A patient with a large tumor of the head and body of the pancreas had a Whipple procedure performed after the intraoperative diagnosis of "mesenchymal tumor" was made. The final histopathologic diagnosis was malignant fibrous histiocytoma arising in the pancreas. The patient died of postoperative complications, and no metastatic disease was found at autopsy. This is thefirst detailed description of a primary pancreatic malignant fibrous histiocytoma.
Opportunities for making ends meet and upward mobility: differences in organizational deprivation across urban and suburban poor neighborhoods.

Objectives. Given the recent rise of poverty in U.S. suburbs, this study asks: What poor neighborhoods are most disadvantageous, those in the city or those in the suburbs? Building on recent urban sociological work demonstrating the importance of neighborhood organizations for the poor, we are concerned with one aspect of disadvantage—the lack of availability of organizational resources oriented toward the poor. By breaking down organizations into those that promote mobility versus those that help individuals meet their daily subsistence needs, we seek to explore potential variations in the type of disadvantage that may exist. Methods. We test whether poor urban or suburban neighborhoods are more likely to be organizationally deprived by breaking down organizations into three types: hardship organizations, educational organizations, and employment organizations. We use data from the 2000 U.S. County Business Patterns and the 2000 U.S. Census and test neighborhood deprivation using logistic regression models. Results. We find that suburban poor neighborhoods are more likely to be organizationally deprived than are urban poor neighborhoods, especially with respect to organizations that promote upward mobility. Interesting racial and ethnic composition factors shape this more general finding. Conclusion. Our findings suggest that if a poor individual is to live in a poor neighborhood, with respect to access to organizational resources, he or she would be better off living in the central city. Suburban residence engenders isolation from organizations that will help meet one's daily needs and even more so from those offering opportunities for mobility.
“Slippery” work surfaces: Towards a performance definition and quantitative coefficient of friction criteria

There have been 50 years of research in walking/working surface slipperiness and coefficient of friction (COF) measurements. Nevertheless, numerous standards address slip/fall accidents only in terms of requiring surfaces to be qualitatively "nonslippery." The literature useful for establishing quantitative criteria for "slippery" vs. "slip-resistant" have been summarized here. A performance definition for "slippery work surfaces" is proposed. Recommendations applicable to standards-making organizations are made, including changing terms such as "non-slip" to "slip-resistant" and defining "slippery" in terms of quantitative COF values. For persons walking unloaded on level surfaces, a COF standard of 0.5 would be reasonable. Research is recommended to determine if "slip-resistance" requirements and accident prevention could be achieved more easily be controlling the type of shoe, type of task, or amount of surface contaminant rather than controlling only the COF of the basic surface and its coating.
The Healthy Toddlers Trial Protocol: An Intervention to Reduce Risk Factors for Childhood Obesity in Economically and Educationally Disadvantaged Populations

Background: The number of overweight children in America has doubled to an estimated 10 million in the past 20 years. Establishing healthy dietary behaviors must begin early in childhood and include parents. The Healthy Toddlers intervention focuses on promoting healthy eating habits in 1- to 3-year-old children utilizing the Social Cognitive Theory and a learner-centered approach using Adult Learning principles. This Healthy Toddlers Trial aims to determine the efficacy of a community-based randomized controlled trial of an in-home intervention with economically and educationally disadvantaged mothers of toddlers. The intervention focuses on: (a) promoting healthy eating behaviors in toddlers while dietary habits are forming; and (b) providing initial evidence for the potential of Healthy Toddlers as a feasible intervention within existing community-based programs. Methods/Design: This describes the study protocol for a randomized control trial, a multi-state project in Colorado, Michigan, and Wisconsin with economically and educationally disadvantaged mother-toddler dyads; toddlers are between 12 and 36 months. The Healthy Toddlers intervention consists of eight in-home lessons and four reinforcement telephone contacts, focusing on fruit, vegetable, and sweetened beverage consumption and parental behaviors, taught by paraprofessional instructors. Healthy Toddlers uses a randomized, experimental, shortterm longitudinal design with intervention and control groups. In-home data collection (anthropometric measurements, feeding observations, questionnaires, 3-day dietary records) occurs at baseline, immediately following the intervention, and 6 months after the intervention. Main toddler outcomes include: a) increased fruit and vegetable consumption and decreased sweetened beverage consumption; and b) improved toddler-eating skills (self-feeding and self-serving). Main parent outcomes include: a) improved psychosocial attributes (knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy, feeding style) related to child feeding; b) provision of a more positive mealtime physical environment (turning off the TV); and c) creation of a more positive mealtime social environment (sitting down together for meals). Discussion: If this project is successful, the expected outcomes are that the intervention will be effective in helping toddlers develop healthy eating skills that contribute to improve overall health and development and to the prevention of obesity.
Vestibules Are Part of the Substrate Path in the Multidrug Efflux Transporter AcrB of Escherichia coli

ABSTRACT The path of substrates in the multidrug efflux pump AcrB of Escherichia coli was examined by using labeling with a lipophilic substrate mimic, Bodipy FL maleimide. Four (out of eight) residues in the vestibule bound the dye, suggesting its role in substrate transport, whereas only one (out of nine) residue in the central cavity tested positive.
A Unified Channel-Network Coding Treatment for User Cooperation in Wireless Ad-Hoc Networks

We propose a combined channel-network coding solution for efficient user cooperation in wireless ad-hoc networks that comprise a host of terminals communicating to a common destination. The proposed framework, termed generalized adaptive network coded cooperation or GANCC, addresses the challenge of inter-user outage, which widely persists in practical cooperation scenarios, by adaptively matching code graphs to instantaneous network graphs (topologies). Additionally, GANCC treats channel codes as an integral part of the network code, and in doing so not only extracts the most benefit from these codes but also provides a live example supporting the notion that network codes are generalization of channel codes (as well as source codes).
Neuropilin-1 distinguishes natural and inducible regulatory T cells among regulatory T cell subsets in vivo

Foxp3+ CD4+ T helper cells called regulatory T (T reg) cells play a key role in controlling reactivity to self-antigens and onset of autoimmunity. T reg cells either arise in thymus and are called natural T reg (nT reg) cells or are generated in the periphery through induction of Foxp3 and are called inducible T reg (iT reg) cells. The relative contributions of iT reg cells and nT reg cells in peripheral tolerance remain unclear as a result of an inability to separate these two subsets of T reg cells. Using a combination of novel TCR transgenic mice with a defined self-antigen specificity and conventional mouse models, we demonstrate that a cell surface molecule, neuropilin-1 (Nrp-1), is expressed at high levels on nT reg cells and can be used to separate nT reg versus iT reg cells in certain physiological settings. In addition, iT reg cells generated through antigen delivery or converted under homeostatic conditions lack Nrp-1 expression. Nrp-1lo iT reg cells show similar suppressive activity to nT reg cells in controlling ongoing autoimmune responses under homeostatic conditions. In contrast, their activity might be compromised in certain lymphopenic settings. Collectively, our data show that Nrp-1 provides an excellent marker to distinguish distinct T reg subsets and will be useful in studying the role of nT reg versus iT reg cells in different disease settings.
The Archaeology of Political Structure: Settlement Analysis in a Classic Maya Polity

The Archaeology of Political Structure: Settlement Analysis in. Classic Maya Polity. Olivier De Montmollin. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1989. 300 pp. $47.50 (cloth). ISBN 0-521- 36232-6.
Hydrogen Oxidation Kinetics in Gaseous Detonations

Abstract A theoretical model including a detailed chemical kinetic reaction mechanism for hydrogen oxidation is used to examine detonation properties for mixtures of hydrogen/air, hydrogen/oxygen, and hydrogen/oxygen diluted with varying amounts of nitrogen. Computed induction lengths are compared with available experimental data for critical energy and critical tube diameter for initiation of spherical detonation, as well as detonation limits in planar and spherical configurations. The ratio of transverse wave spacing to induction length is also computed and contrasted with quantities determined previously for hydrocarbon fuels.
Duration of Herd Participation in Dairy Herd Improvement Milk Recording in the United States

Participation in milk-recording programs that provide data for national genetic evaluations of dairy cattle in the United States is voluntary, but the effectiveness of the evaluation system increases with the number of herds that contribute data. To investigate patterns of herd participation in Dairy Herd Improvement (DHI) testing, periods of continuous testing were computed based on the year that a herd initiated or terminated testing and by geographical region. Continuous testing was defined as at least one test per 6-mo period. Some herds discontinued testing and then re-enrolled. Across all years (1960 through 2002), 65% of herds had one period of continuous testing (no testing lapse). The percentage of herds with testing lapses decreased as the number of lapses increased and as the initial test year became more recent; overall, only 1.5% of herds had more than 6 continuous testing periods. For herds that terminated DHI testing from 1960 through 2002, 64% were on continuous test for 6 mo between test periods represent a loss of data that could have enhanced the study and evaluation of genetic characteristics of US dairy cattle.
Brain activity evoked by inverted and imagined biological motion

Previous imaging research has identified an area on the human posterior superior temporal sulcus (STS) activated upon viewing biological motion. The current experiments explore the relationship between neural activity within this region and perceptual experience. Biological motion perception is orientation dependent: inverting point-light animations make them more difficult to see. We measured activity levels within this region as observers viewed inverted point-light animations. We also measured neural activity while observers imagined biological motion and compared it to that measured while observers viewed the animations. In both experiments we found that the BOLD response was modulated with perceptual experience. Viewing inverted biological motion activated posterior STS more than scrambled motion, but less than upright biological motion. Mental imagery of biological motion was also sufficient to activate this region in most of our observers, but the level of activity was weaker than during actual viewing of the motion animations.
Dimensionality reduction design for distributed estimation in certain inhomogeneous scenarios

We consider distributed estimation of a deterministic vector parameter from noisy sensor observations in a wireless sensor network (WSN). To meet stringent power and bandwidth budgets inherent in WSNs, local data dimensionality reduction is performed at each sensor to reduce the number of messages sent to a fusion center (FC). The problem of interest is to jointly design the compression matrices associated with those sensors, aiming at minimizing the estimation error at the FC. Such a dimensionality reduction problem is investigated in this paper. Specifically, we study an inhomogeneous environment where the noise covariance matrices across the sensors have the same correlation structure but with different scaling factors. Given a total number of messages sent to the FC, theoretical lower bounds on the estimation error of any compression strategy are derived. Compression strategies are developed to approach or even attain the corresponding theoretical lower bounds. Performance analysis and simulations are carried out to illustrate the optimality and effectiveness of the proposed compression strategies.
SRp30c-dependent stimulation of survival motor neuron (SMN) exon 7 inclusion is facilitated by a direct interaction with hTra2β1

Proximal spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is caused by the homozygous loss of survival motor neuron (SMN1).SMN2, a nearly identical copy gene, is present in all SMA patients; however this gene cannot provide protectionfrom disease due to the aberrant splicing of a critical exon. SMN1-derived transcripts are exclusively full-length, whereas SMN2-derived transcripts predominantly lack SMN exon 7. A single non-polymorphic nucleotidedifference (C in SMN1; T in SMN2) is responsible for the alternative splicing patterns. We have previouslyshown that transient expression of an SR-like splicing factor, hTra2
Overstory-Understory Relationships along Forest Type and Environmental Gradients in the Spring Mountains of Southern Nevada, USA

Isolated forested mountains in deserts have numerous ecological and societal values, but land-management practices (e.g., fire-regime alteration) and climate change can affect forest composition. We analyzed tree overstory-understory relationships on 123 sites in the Spring Mountains within the Mojave Desert near Las Vegas, Nevada, USA to assess three hypotheses. We hypothesized that: the tree species comprising understories are less tolerant of fire than species in overstories, reflecting land-management practices of fire exclusion; mid-elevation forests have the lowest overstory:understory similarity because this zone could have maximum species mixing; and overstory:understory similarity is correlated with environmental gradients (consisting of 14 topographic and soil variables). We found that Pinus monophylla comprised greater relative canopy cover in understories of juniper (32% relative cover) and pinyon-juniper (78%) forests than it did in overstories of these forests (0% and 53%). Similarly, fire-intolerant Abies concolor had 6-fold greater understory than overstory cover in forests with overstories dominated by the fire-tolerant Pinus ponderosa. Overstory:understory Sorensen similarity averaged 43%−77% among six forest types, and there was little support for the supposition that similarity was lowest in mid-elevation forests. Distributions of individual overstory and understory species more closely corresponded with environmental gradients than did overstory:understory similarity. Results suggest that there is high potential for change in at least two of the six dominant forest types of the Spring Mountains. The direction of change (species of moist, higher elevation sites establishing in understories of drier forests) is the opposite of what would be expected for forest adaptation to the warmer, drier, more fire-prone conditions projected for the next century in the southwestern USA.
Cytogenetic analysis of childhood endodermal sinus tumors: a Pediatric Oncology Group study.

Most adult germ cell tumors have a consistent cytogenetic abnormality, i(12p), and are aneuploid. Many pediatric germ cell tumors are biologically distinct from their adult counterparts, particularly endodermal sinus tumors (ESTs) of young children. We report cytogenetic and ploidy analysis of nine ESTs involving children under 3 years of age (four extragonadal and five testicular). Structural abnormalities were present in seven tumors and were identifiable in six: 5/6 had a structural abnormality of chromosome 1, usually terminal deletion of 1p; 5/6 showed 6q deletion; 3/6 had structural abnormalities of 3p; 2/6 showed abnormalities of chromosome 2. None showed an i(12p) or abnormality of chromosome 12. Ploidy analysis of the tumors correlated with the cytogenetic analysis; in particular, the tumor that was cytogenetically normal showed no aneuploid peaks. To determine if a marker chromosome was derived from chromosome 12 or if karyotypically normal cases included nondividing tumor cells, interphase fluo...
Is there a role for decision aids in cancer-related decisions?

Abstract Cancer-related decisions are challenging, requiring patients to evaluate associated medical and psychological outcomes within the context of their personal values. In response, a number of decisional support tools have been developed. Clinical decision aids are decisional support tools designed to facilitate patient-driven decision-making by providing relevant information on the options while eliciting and incorporating patient preferences; they have been designed to support decision-making in the prevention, screening, and treatment of cancer. The development begins with identification of an appropriate clinical problem, followed by needs assessment to determine content and optimal methods of data presentation. Because implementation of a decision aid requires time and financial commitment, its efficacy in improving the quality of patients’ decisions must be evaluated. In randomized controlled trials, cancer-related decision aids have been shown to increase patients’ knowledge regarding their disease, and may facilitate patients playing a more active role in decision-making. Some studies suggest less decisional conflict and improved satisfaction with decision-making as a result. Whether use of a decision aid impacts the actual decisions made by patients, however, is less evident.
Effects of the Tachykinins Eledoisin and Physalaemin on Drinking Behaviour in Baby Rats

Substance P was until recently the only tachykinin known to occur in mammals, all the other members of the family having been found only in molluscan or amphibian tissues. Now we know that at least two other tachykinins, one physalaemin-like and the other kassinin-like, occur in mammalian tissues, including the brain (1, 2).
The complexity of team training: what we have learned from aviation and its applications to medicine

Errors in health care that compromise patient safety are tied to latent failures in the structure and function of systems. Teams of people perform most care delivered today, yet training often remains focused on individual responsibilities. Training programmes for all healthcare workers need to increase the educational experience of working in interdisciplinary teams. The complexities of team training require a multifunctional (systems) approach, which crosses organisational divisions to allow communication, accountability, and creation and maintenance of interdisciplinary teams. This report identifies challenges for medical education in performing the research, identifying performance measurements, and modifying educational curricula for the advancement of interdisciplinary teams, based on the complexity of team training identified in commercial aviation.
The Interrelationship of Jungian Modes of Mental Functioning with Organizational Factors: Implications for Management Development

This paper describes a comparative survey study involving a sample of 437 organization members. A major implication drawn from the findings is that the common assumption that the organic-adaptive type of organization is more “humanistic” for more people in America today than a moderate bureaucratic-mechanistic type may not be valid.
A Behavior Systems View of Conditioned States during Long and Short CS-US Intervals

Abstract In the behavior systems view, a long CS–US interval should differentially condition a general search mode and related behavior, while a short CS–US interval should differentially condition a focal search mode and related behavior. Two experiments paired a long or a short CS with food, and then, during an extinction test, compounded the CS with an unconditioned probe-stimulus of a rolling ball-bearing. Presuming that the long CS differentially conditions a general search mode, and that unconditioned contact of a moving stimulus is characteristic of that mode, presentation of the long CS should facilitate interaction with the ball-bearing. Similarly, presuming that a short CS differentially conditions a focal search mode, and that feeder-directed responses are characteristic of this mode, presentation of a short CS should facilitate nosing in the food-tray. Consistent with these predictions, ball-bearing contact increased in rats receiving the long CS, while nosing in the food-tray was higher with the short CS.
THE ELABORATION OF SPECIFIC SOLUBLE SUBSTANCE BY PNEUMOCOCCUS DURING GROWTH

1. A specifically reacting substance of bacterial origin is present in the cell-free fluids of young cultures of pneumococcus. This substance is present when the organisms are growing at their maximum rate and undergoing little or no cell death, and consequently its. presence is not dependent upon cell disintegration but represents the extrusion of bacterial substance by the living organism. 2. The blood and urine of rabbits experimentally infected with pneumococcus contain a similar specific soluble substance during the early hours of the infectious process. 3. Human beings suffering from lobar pneumonia have in their blood and more frequently in their urine a specific soluble substance of pneumococcus origin. The amount of this substance present in the urine varies in different individuals and the presence of a large amount is of unfavorable prognostic import. This specific precipitin reaction in the urine is of diagnostic value. 4. Rabbits injected with soluble pneumococcus material continue to excrete this substance for a considerable period of time. 5. The specifically soluble substance obtained from bacterial cultures and from the urine during infection is not destroyed by boiling, by precipitation with alcohol, acetone, or ether, or by trypsin digestion. 6. Studies are in progress at this time on the degree of toxicity and on the antigenic properties of the substance.
Low complexity matching criteria for image/video applications

The paper extends Kosravi and Schafer (1994) which introduced the notion of normalized min correlation (NMC) as a new criterion for template matching applications. The NMC features low complexity and robustness with respect to Gaussian noise. It is also independent of the local average of the image, which is a desired property in many template matching applications. However, its sensitivity to impulsive noise increases with the size of the template. The paper introduces two different modifications of the NMC which are robust with respect to both Gaussian and impulsive noise. The performance of the new modifications are examined in motion estimation applications. As a different way of looking at the NMC, the notion of grayscale hit-or-miss transform is introduced. This is an extension of the binary hit-or-miss transform to grayscale. >