cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Anatomy of the Perioral Region

The lips surround the mouth which is the entrance into the gastrointestinal system. The oral cavity provides the ability to eat, drink, and speak. Digestion begins in the mouth through mastication and the action of salivary enzymes. The musculature controlling the mouth is complex and interdigitating, making their repair and reconstruction challenging. The muscles which seal the oral cavity, elevate, or depress the lips are described. Motor innervation of these muscles is provided by branches of the facial nerve (CNVII). Sensory innervation is provided by branches of the trigeminal nerve and cervical nerves. The facial artery, a branch of the external carotid, supplies this region.
Treatment of a patient with a circadian sleep-wake disorder using a combination of melatonin and metoprolol.

Circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders result from the lack of synchronization between endogenous circadian rhythms and daily environmental or behavioral cycles. Current treatment of circadian rhyth...
Quantitative description of the interactions among kinase cascades underlying long-term plasticity of Aplysia sensory neurons.

Kinases play critical roles in synaptic and neuronal changes involved in the formation of memory. However, significant gaps exist in the understanding of how interactions among kinase pathways contribute to the mechanistically distinct temporal domains of memory ranging from short-term memory to long-term memory (LTM). Activation of protein kinase A (PKA) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)—ribosomal S6 kinase (RSK) pathways are critical for long-term enhancement of neuronal excitability (LTEE) and long-term synaptic facilitation (LTF), essential processes in memory formation. This study provides new insights into how these pathways contribute to the temporal domains of memory, using empirical and computational approaches. Empirical studies of Aplysia sensory neurons identified a positive feedforward loop in which the PKA and ERK pathways converge to regulate RSK, and a negative feedback loop in which p38 MAPK inhibits the activation of ERK and RSK. A computational model incorporated these findings to simulate the dynamics of kinase activity produced by different stimulus protocols and predict the critical roles of kinase interactions in the dynamics of these pathways. These findings may provide insights into the mechanisms underlying aberrant synaptic plasticity observed in genetic disorders such as RASopathies and Coffin-Lowry syndrome.
Evaluation of Evidence of E-Cigarettes as a Smoking Cessation Treatment for Adult Smokers

Although e-cigarettes have not been FDA approved as a smoking cessation device, questions arise about their public health impact. Do e-cigarettes provide a public health benefit as an aid to promote smoking cessation and reduction with adult smokers? Or, do these products create a public health harm by attracting new users, who might then transition to combustible cigarettes? Or, both? Over 90 studies examining the impacts of e-cigarettes on smoking cessation or reduction have produced disparate findings regarding this first question. At least 16 reviews have attempted to synthesize these studies and have also reached disparate conclusions. The lack of randomized controlled trials and the evolving landscape of e-cigarette products reduce the generalizability of studies and hamper a strong consensus concerning the impact of e-cigarettes on smoking cessation, although several reviews agree that e-cigarettes can have at least a modest impact on smoking reduction. However, any potential harm-reduction benefit of e-cigarettes to adult cigarette smokers is offset by sharp increases in e-cigarette use among adolescents and by the consistent prospective research demonstrating that nonsmoking adolescents and young adults who initiate e-cigarette use are at increased risk of transitioning to combustible cigarette use.
CURRENT PROBLEMS IN MEDICAL ULTRASONICS

ABSTRACT Ultrasonic techniques are becoming increasingly important in medicine, both as a diagnostic tool and as a therapeutic modality. Although ultrasound has been used in medicine since the 1930's, it is only recently that this technology has been widely used and its potential fully recognized. Medical ultrasonics is now in a period of rapid growth and is on the verge of making a significant impact on clinical medicine. The field provides challenging and important engineering problems, which are unique to medicine and biology. This review outlines some of the basic principles of ultrasonics, describes ultrasonic techniques presently used in the clinic, discusses several new techniques presently under development in the laboratory, and notes a number of the important problems which must be solved if the field is to advance. It is suggested that the current problems in medical ultrasonics can best be solved by a unified systems approach and a synergism between medicine, physics, and engineering.
Motion deblurring in a neural network model of retino-cortical dynamics

Abstract Simulations of a neural network model of retino-cortical dynamics (Ogmen H, Neural Netw 6 (1993) 245–273) are presented. The temporal-step response of the model to a single dot (spatial impulse) consists of three post-retinal phases: reset, feed-forward dominant and feedback dominant. In response to a single moving dot, the model predicts the perception of extensive blur. This extensive blur is proposed to be due to the relative spatial and temporal offsets between transient and sustained signals conveyed from retina to post-retinal levels. In response to a pair of horizontally separated dots moving in the horizontal direction, the model predicts extensive blur for the trailing dot irrespective of dot-to-dot separation. For the leading dot, the model predicts a decrease in perceived blur for long exposure durations when dot-to-dot separations are small. The reduction of perceived blur at long exposure durations for small dot-to-dot separations is proposed to stem from the spatio-temporal overlap between the transient activity generated by the trailing dot and the sustained activity generated by the leading dot. The model also predicts that targets moving at higher speeds generate more blur even when blur is normalized with respect to speed. The mechanism in the model generating this effect is a slow inhibition within the sustained channel. These predictions are compared with recent psychophysical data (Chen S, Bedell HE, Ogmen H, Vis Res 35 (1995) 2315–2328) and are found to be in excellent agreement. The model is used to offer a coherent explanation for several controversial findings published in the literature. This computational study shows that a model without any motion-compensation mechanism can give a good account of motion deblurring phenomenon and supplements our recent experimental study which provided evidence against motion-compensation type models in explaining the motion deblurring phenomenon (Chen S, Bedell HE, Ogmen H, Vis Res 35 (1995) 2315–2328).
A test of the interval rule in the state of bismuth I

Abstract The hyperfine structure of the line λ 4722 of the arc spectrum of bismuth was investigated with a Fabry-Perot interferometer. After corrections were made for the mutual influence of the components, deviations from the Lande interval rule were observed in the 2 D 3 2 state. These are accounted for by the addition of a cos2 term to the usual law of interaction.
HLA Haplotypes, Polysomnography, and Pedigrees in a Case Series of Patients With Narcolepsy

An ongoing study of the genetics of narcolepsy ascertains families through a case series of narcoleptic probands using diagnostic criteria consisting of 1) clinical history of excessive somnolence, 2) a mean sleep latency on the multiple sleep latency test (MSLT) of less than 7.9 minutes, 3) the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep-related symptom of cataplexy, 4) nocturnal polysomnography ruling out sleep apnea syndrome, and 5) two or more transitions to REM sleep on the MSLT. All probands and first-degree relatives received clinical and laboratory evaluations as well as human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing. Demographic characteristics of the 32 probands are as follows: 17 males and 15 females; mean age was 42.1 years (range 13–70 years). The polysomnographic data confirmed daytime sleepiness and increased tendency for REM sleep for the 32 probands. Nocturnal polysomnographic results are as follows: sleep latency, 3.2 minutes; total sleep time, 442 minutes. MSLT results are as follows: sleep latency, 3.1 minutes; REM latency, 6.9 minutes; number of REM periods, 3.2. HLA typing revealed the presence of the HLA haplotypes, DRB1*15 and DQB1*0602, in 21 narcoleptic probands, with two African-Americans having the DQB1*0602 but not the DRB1*15 allele. Among the 57 relatives of the 32 probands, 1/31 females and 7/26 males were found to be affected with narcolepsy (p < 0.02), which suggests a higher diagnostic rate in male relatives. The 21 probands who were positive for the DRB1*15 and DQB1*0602 haplotypes did not differ from the 10 probands who were negative for these alleles in terms of their nocturnal sleep parameters, MSLT findings, or clinical presentation. Three families with multiple individuals affected with narcolepsy are presented. Two families have more than one affected individual who does not have the high-risk HLA haplotype. In one of these families, the disease is segregating independently of any HLA haplotype. In the third family, there is cosegregation with HLA DRB1*15 and DQB1*0602. One family contains a pair of DNA-confirmed, monozygotic twins with narcolepsy who are discordant for cataplexy and have the HLA DR14(Dw9)/DQB1*0503 and DR4(Dw4)/DQB1*0302 haplotypes.
Rational Drug Use in the Treatment of Depression

New drugs are being developed for the management of depression in response to the growing awareness of the prevalence and disability associated with the disorder and the need for agents with improved side effect profiles. All antidepressants are equally effective for treating uncomplicated unipolar depression without psychotic features. For patients with atypical depression with prominent anxiety, agitation, sleep loss, and irritability, monoamine oxidase inhibitors are the first choice. Data are accumulating supporting the efficacy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in these depressive subtypes. Factors to consider when choosing an antidepressant include spectrum of adverse effects, long-term tolerability, dosing schedule, clinically significant drug interactions, underlying medical conditions, earlier response to therapy, and pharmacoeconomics. Based on these criteria, it is suggested that a trial with the SSRIs be attempted first. Venlafaxine and nefazodone are newer agents with mechanisms of action that have advantages over tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Choosing a drug that is effective, tolerable, and convenient will improve the likelihood of achieving and maintaining a full remission. It will also decrease the morbidity and mortality of this very treatable disease.
Enzymology and Molecular Biology of Lignin Degradation

Lignin is the most abundant aromatic polymer in nature. It is synthesized by higher plants, reaching levels of 20–30% of the dry weight of woody tissue. Although white-rot fungi were long recognized as efficient lignin-degrading microbes, research on their enzymology and genetics was somewhat neglected until the past decade. The impetus for increased research interest can be traced to the discovery of “ligninases” and potential commerical applications in the pulp and paper industry and in the degradation of xenobiotics. In this chapter, we briefly summarize several decades of research on white-rot fungi, and readers are referred to several comprehensive reviews for additional background information. Recent developments in molecular biology and enzymology are emphasized. Areas where knowledge is incomplete are highlighted.
Gamma ray lines from solar flares and cosmic transients

Gamma-ray line emission processes in solar flares and cosmic transients are reviewed and the implications of recent line observations are discussed. For solar flares, neutron, positron, and deexcitation line production is addressed, presenting results of new numerical calculations based on more detailed and accurate nuclear cross sections. The application of the theory is illustrated by considering the June 7, 1980 flare, and the structure of the interaction region is discussed. For gamma-ray bursts and transients, the processes of positron production and annihilation and nuclear line emission are emphasized. The possible origin of the gamma-ray lines observed in a longer duration transient which is a particularly strong gamma-ray line emitter is also considered.
Dynamic function placement for data-intensive cluster computing

Optimally partitioning application and filesystem functionality within a cluster of clients and servers is a difficult problem due to dynamic variations in application behavior, resource availability, and workload mixes. This paper presents ABACUS, a run-time system that monitors and dynamically changes function placement for applications that manipulate large data sets. Several examples of data-intensive workloads are used to show the importance of proper function placement and its dependence on dynamic run-time characteristics, with performance differences frequently reaching 2-10X. We evaluate how well the ABACUS prototype adapts to run-time system behavior, including both long-term variation (e.g., filter selectivity) and short-term variation (e.g., multi-phase applications and interapplication resource contention). Our experiments with ABACUS indicate that it is possible to adapt in all of these situations and that the adaptation converges most quickly in those cases where the performance impact is most significant.
Bim Nuclear Translocation and Inactivation by Viral Interferon Regulatory Factor

Viral replication efficiency is in large part governed by the ability of viruses to counteract pro-apoptotic signals induced by infection of the host cell. Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) uses several strategies to block the host's innate antiviral defenses via interference with interferon and apoptotic signaling. Contributors include the four viral interferon regulatory factors (vIRFs 1–4), which function in dominant negative fashion to block cellular IRF activities in addition to targeting IRF signaling-induced proteins such as p53 and inhibiting other inducers of apoptosis such as TGFβ receptor-activated Smad transcription factors. Here we identify direct targeting by vIRF-1 of BH3-only pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family member Bim, a key negative regulator of HHV-8 replication, to effect its inactivation via nuclear translocation. vIRF-1-mediated relocalization of Bim was identified in transfected cells, by both immunofluorescence assay and western analysis of fractionated cell extracts. Also, co-localization of vIRF-1 and Bim was detected in nuclei of lytically infected endothelial cells. In vitro co-precipitation assays using purified vIRF-1 and Bim revealed direct interaction between the proteins, and Bim-binding residues of vIRF-1 were mapped by deletion and point mutagenesis. Generation and experimental utilization of Bim-refractory vIRF-1 variants revealed the importance of vIRF-1:Bim interaction, specifically, in pro-replication and anti-apoptotic activity of vIRF-1. Furthermore, blocking of the interaction with cell-permeable peptide corresponding to the Bim-binding region of vIRF-1 confirmed the relevance of vIRF-1:Bim association to vIRF-1 pro-replication activity. To our knowledge, this is the first report of an IRF protein that interacts with a Bcl-2 family member and of nuclear sequestration of Bim or any other member of the family as a means of inactivation. The data presented reveal a novel mechanism utilized by a virus to control replication-induced apoptosis and suggest that inhibitory targeting of vIRF-1:Bim interaction may provide an effective antiviral strategy.
The synthesis and structural characterization of bis(mercaptoimidazolyl)hydroborato complexes of lithium, thallium and zinc

Bidentate [S2]-donor bis(mercaptoimidazolyl) ligands, [BmMe]− and [BmMes]−, have been synthesized by reaction of [BH4]− with 2-mercapto-1-methylimidazole and 2-mercapto-1-mesitylimidazole, respectively. Subsequent treatment with ZnX2 (X = Me, I, NO3) yields a series of 1∶1 [BmR]ZnX complexes, namely [BmMe]ZnMe, [BmMe]ZnI and [BmMes]Zn(NO3), each of which possesses 3-center–2-electron [Zn⋯H–B] interactions. The homoleptic complex, [BmMe]2Zn, may be obtained by a redistribution reaction of [BmMe]ZnMe in CHCl3, and possesses a tetrahedral zinc center which is devoid of a 3-center–2-electron [Zn⋯H–B] interaction.
Evolutionary biology: sex ratios writ small.

The evolutionary theory of sex ratios should apply to all creatures, both great and small. Experimental studies of the proportions of male to female sex cells of malaria parasites deliver cheering results.
Real-time communication of head velocity and acceleration for an externally mounted vestibular prosthesis

Loss of vestibular function results in imbalance, disorientation, and oscillopsia. Several groups have designed and constructed implantable devices to restore vestibular function through electrical stimulation of the vestibular nerve. We have designed a two-part device in which the head motion sensing and signal processing elements are externally mounted to the head, and are coupled through an inductive link to a receiver stimulator that is based on a cochlear implant. The implanted electrode arrays are designed to preserve rotational sensitivity in the implanted ear. We have tested the device in rhesus monkeys by rotating the animals in the plane of the implanted canals, and then using head velocity and acceleration signals to drive electrical stimulation of the vestibular system. Combined electrical and rotational stimulation results in a summation of responses, so that one can control the modulation of eye velocity induced by sinusoidal yaw rotation.
Tissue Swelling During Extended Material Testing of Ligaments

Material testing is often used to characterize the mechanical properties of biological tissue and to understand the specific effects of treatments and pathologies on mechanical behavior. To have confidence in results from material testing, it is important that the test environment is repeatable between samples and that tests are performed in an environment that mimics physiological conditions.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
The endocrine control of follicle androgen biosynthesis

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the endocrine control of follicle androgen biosynthesis. Despite their key function in ovarian physiology, little is known about the endocrine details of androgen synthesis by the theca-interstitial cells. It is evident from in vivo studies that theca-interstitial cells are derived from stromal fibroblast-like cells, and their differentiation into active steroid-producing cells is initiated by luteinizing hormone (LH) via specific LH/hCG receptors. A concept that is emerging from experiments is that the theca, like the granulosa cell, is under multiple hormone control. The chapter reviews some of these findings and their implications for ovarian physiology. It describes the nature of theca-interstitial cells of hypophysectomized rats. The chapter discusses LH action in a defined medium and discusses the role of gene expression in LH action.
From "Candy Kids" to "Chemi-Kids": a typology of young adults who attend raves in the midwestern United States.

Although young people attending raves have been most visibly associated with the use of ecstasy and other “club drugs” in the United States, there is reason to believe that they are not a homogenous group in terms of their drug use practices. The purpose of this article is to begin developing a typology of young adult ecstasy users involved in the rave subculture–known as Ravers or Party Kids. The study is based on focus groups and qualitative interviews conducted between November 2001 and September 2003 with 36 current and former ecstasy users, aged 19–31, in central Ohio, as well as participant observation conducted in raves, clubs, and bars where “club drugs” are often used. Findings suggest the existence of five main subgroups in attendance at raves–Chemi-Kids, Candy Kids, non-affiliated Party Kids, Junglists, and Old School Ravers. These groups differ in regard to musical taste, philosophy, style of clothing worn, amount of time in the rave subculture, and most importantly, patterns of drug use. For ...
A Feasibility Study of Synthesizing Subsurfaces Modeled with Computational Neural Networks

This paper investigates the feasibility of synthesizing substructures modeled with computational neural networks. Substructures are modeled individually with computational neural networks and the response of the assembled structure is predicted by synthesizing the neural networks. A superposition approach is applied to synthesize models for statically determinate substructures while an interface displacement collocation approach is used to synthesize statically indeterminate substructure models. Beam and plate substructures along with components of a complicated Next Generation Space Telescope (NGST) model are used in this feasibility study. In this paper, the limitations and difficulties of synthesizing substructures modeled with neural networks are also discussed.
Occupational Exposures and Salivary Gland Cancer Mortality Among African American and White Workers in the United States

We conducted a large death certificate-based case-control study to assess occupational risks for salivary gland cancer. African American (168 cases, 672 controls) and white (2237 cases, 8748 controls) cases from 24 states (1984-1989) were matched to controls by age, sex, race, and region. Race- and sex-stratified multiple logistic regression models calculated adjusted odds ratios. The proportion of young cases (<50 years) was greatest among African Americans (20.8% vs. 8.8%). Higher socioeconomic status, ionizing radiation, formaldehyde, solvents, outdoor work, and animal contact were associated with elevated risk among white men. Physical activity reduced mortality risks among men, although significantly only among whites. Odds ratios for formaldehyde, solvents, benzene, and animal contact were 2.0 or greater among African American women, although not statistically significant. These findings suggest occupational and demographic factors needing further investigation.
Radiation from a dislocation oscillating in a circular cylinder

Abstract The exact closed-form solution is derived for standing waves due to an oscillating screw dislocation which is located in a circular infinite cylinder. The resonance behavior of the emitted waves and the effect of energy losses are explicitly shown.
An Eulerian, lattice-based cellular automata approach for modeling multiphase flows

Abstract Commonly found in nature and engineering, multiphase flows contain interacting media of different phases. Traditionally, there have been two ways to model such flows. First, the Eulerian–Eulerian approach, in which the phases are modeled as interpenetrating continua, is computationally efficient but does not provide the discrete particle locations. Second, in the Eulerian–Lagrangian approach, the dispersed phase is treated as individual particles interacting with a fluid continuum. However, this approach is computationally demanding, especially for flows containing a large number of particles. The current work introduces an Eulerian–Lagrangian approach to modeling multiphase flows, in which the particles are modeled using lattice-based cellular automata (CA). The fluid is modeled as a continuum while particles are modeled on a lattice which allows them to evolve spatially and temporally. Thus, this work examines the feasibility of the Eulerian-CA approach for modeling multiphase flows while achieving significant speedups in computational times.
The impairments caused by social phobia in the general population: implications for intervention.

Objective: Although social phobia is common, treatment remains low. In order to gauge public health implications of this low treatment, information is needed on the impairments caused by social phobia. Method: A computer literature review searched for the terms 'social anxiety disorder' and 'social phobia' in the MEDLINE and PsycLIT databases. New analyses were carried out in the US National Comorbidity Survey. Results: The literature shows that social phobia has serious effects on role functioning and quality of life. These effects are least severe for pure non-generalized social phobia and most severe for comorbid generalized social phobia with avoidant personality disorder. The most direct impairments involve social interactions and information processing errors in these interactions. Indirect effects are even more important. Three indirect effects are highlighted: effects on secondary mental (e.g. depression), substance (e.g. alcoholism) and physical (e.g. cardiovascular disease) disorders; effects on normative role transitions (e.g. educational attainment); and effects on help-seeking. Conclusion: Given the early age of onset and impacts on secondary disorders and early adult life course transitions, the greatest public health impact of increasing treatment of social phobia is likely to be achieved by developing programs targeted at early identification and treatment through schools.
Atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia involving twin atrioventricular nodes in patients with complex congenital heart disease.

Twin AV Nodes in Complex Congenital Heart Disease.Introduction: Histologic studies of autopsy specimens described the coexistence of two distinct AV nodes (so-called “Monckeberg sling” or “twin AV nodes”) in specific congenital heart defects; however, the clinical electrophysiologic (EP) characteristics of twin AV nodes have not been characterized in detail. Methods and Results: Since April 1993, a total of seven patients with complex congenital heart disease presented with AV reciprocating tachycardia suspected to be mediated by twin AV nodes. A common anatomic finding was AV discordance ({S,L,L} or {I,D,D}) with a malaligned complete AV canal defect in 5 of 7 patients. Intracardiac EP study was performed in five cases, and ablation was attempted in three patients with successful elimination of tachycardia inducibility by interruption or modification of 1 of the 2 AV nodes. Important EP characteristics included (1) the existence of two discrete nonpreexcited QRS morphologies, each with an associated His-bundle electrogram; (2) decremental as well as adenosine-sensitive anterograde and retrograde conduction; and (3) inducible AV reciprocating tachycardia with anterograde conduction over one AV nodal pathway and retrograde conduction over the alternate AV nodal pathway. The existence of two AV nodes was further supported in the group treated with radiofrequency ablation by the development of transient accelerated junctional rhythm during energy delivery with an identical QRS morphology to that generated by anterograde conduction over the targeted AV node. Conclusion: Reciprocating tachycardia mediated by twin AV nodes can be a source of recurrent supraventricular tachycardia in patients with specific forms of complex congenital heart disease. Successful treatment with catheter ablation is possible.
Conserved mechanisms across development and tumorigenesis revealed by a mouse development perspective of human cancers

Identification of common mechanisms underlying organ development and primary tumor formation should yield new insights into tumor biology and facilitate the generation of relevant cancer models. We have developed a novel method to project the gene expression profiles of medulloblastomas (MBs)—human cerebellar tumors—onto a mouse cerebellar development sequence: postnatal days 1-60 (P1-P60). Genomically, human medulloblastomas were closest to mouse P1-P10 cerebella, and normal human cerebella were closest to mouse P30-P60 cerebella. Furthermore, metastatic MBs were highly associated with mouse P5 cerebella, suggesting that a clinically distinct subset of tumors is identifiable by molecular similarity to a precise developmental stage. Genewise, down- and up-regulated MB genes segregate to late and early stages of development, respectively. Comparable results for human lung cancer vis-a-vis the developing mouse lung suggest the generalizability of this multiscalar developmental perspective on tumor biology. Our findings indicate both a recapitulation of tissue-specific developmental programs in diverse solid tumors and the utility of tumor characterization on the developmental time axis for identifying novel aspects of clinical and biological behavior.
Cytoskeleton: Microtubule nucleation takes shape

Abstract The centrosomal protein γ -tubulin is part of a ring-shaped complex that can induce microtubule polymerization. This complex may explain how the centrosome nucleates microtubule polymerization, and thereby organizes the microtubule cytoskeleton.
Fatigue Life Estimates for a Notched Member in a Corrosive Environment

Etude sur une tole d'alliage d'aluminium (alliage 5454) dans un environnement de NaCl et dans l'air. Estimation de la duree de vie de fatigue pour des plaques entaillees au centre, a partir d'un modele simple ou la duree de vie totale est la somme du dommage de fatigue decrit par le champ de deformation et du dommage evalue par la longueur de fissures et la contrainte nominale. Influence de l'environnement sur la resistance d'amorcage. Determination de la vitesse et de la duree de vie de la propagation des fissures. Fiabilite du modele de prevision
Systematic review of hydroxychloroquine use in pregnant patients with autoimmune diseases.

Objective The purpose of this study is to compare the incidence of congenital defects, spontaneous abortions, number of live births, fetal death and pre-maturity in women with autoimmune diseases taking HCQ during pregnancy.
Color Doppler Analysis of Ocular Vessel Blood Velocity in Normal-tension Glaucoma

The pathogenesis of normal-tension glaucoma remains unknown. Because ocular vasospasm has been proposed as a possible mechanism, we investigated ocular vessel flow velocity in normal-tension glaucoma patients at rest and under treatment with a cerebral vasodilator. Ten normal-tension glaucoma patients and nine age- and gender-matched controls had flow velocity measured in three vessels (ophthalmic artery, central retinal artery, and temporal short posterior ciliary artery) by using color Doppler imaging, under baseline conditions and during carbon dioxide supplementation sufficient to increase end-tidal PCO2 by 15%. Peak systolic and end-diastolic velocities were measured, and the resistance index (peak systolic velocity minus end-diastolic velocity, divided by peak systolic velocity) was calculated. Compared with controls, these normal-tension glaucoma patients had significantly lower end-diastolic velocities (P = .002) and higher resistance indices (P = .007) in the ophthalmic artery at baseline. When PCO2 was increased, control subjects remained unchanged, whereas it increased end-diastolic velocity in patients (P = .003) and abolished the difference in resistance index between the two groups. Patients and control subjects differed little in their baseline or carbon dioxide response velocities or in resistance in the other two vessels. These results indicate that at baseline these normal-tension glaucoma patients may have increased vascular resistance distal to the ophthalmic artery, although this increased resistance cannot be specifically ascribed to the central retinal arterial or to temporal short posterior ciliary arterial vascular beds. The responsiveness of these patients to a cerebral vasodilator (increased PCO2) indicates further that the increased resistance distal to the ophthalmic artery may be the reversible result of vasospasm.
Regulation of steroid hydroxylase gene expression : importance to physiology and disease

Steroid hydroxylase gene expression is multifactorial in nature, being regulated by tissue-specific, developmental, constitutive and signal transduction systems. The biochemistry of this complex pattern of regulation is not yet clearly elucidated, but studies in several laboratories have led to an understanding of specific aspects of regulation, particularly that involving signal transduction. The complexity of regulation appears to be necessary for normal human physiology because of the wide variety of steroid hormones produced by these enzymes. Genetic diseases associated with the steroid hydroxylases provide examples of how aberrant physiology can result from alterations in the multifactorial regulation of steroid hydroxylase gene expression.
Igf-I accelerates ileal epithelial cell migration in culture and newborn mice and may be a mediator of steroid-induced maturation.

We have previously hypothesized that IGF-I is a mediator of dexamethasone (DEX) effect in the newborn mouse ileum—a model designed to mimic the precocious mucosal maturation associated with spontaneous ileal perforations in extremely premature neonates. We have further investigated this hypothesis using in vivo and in vitro models of accelerated epithelial migration (a transient property, temporally associated with mucosal maturation). These experiments include a steroid-treatment model comparing IGF-I immunolocalization with bromo-deoxyuridine (BrdU)-pulse-labeling, as a means of assessing epithelial cell migration, within the ileum of newborn mice that received either daily intraperitoneal injections of DEX (1 μg/gm) or vehicle. Likewise, a transgenic newborn mouse model was used to compare the effect of IGF-I overexpression upon the clearance of BrdU-pulse-labeled epithelial cells traveling up the villus during the same time period. For our in vitro model, rat ileal epithelial cells (IEC-18) were cultured to confluence in serum-free media then treated with DEX, a stable IGF-I agonist, or nothing before being subjected to linear scarification. Serial photomicrographs of migrating cells were taken over time and the average speed was determined for each treatment condition. Our data demonstrate that IGF-I accelerates ileal epithelial cell migration in every model. However, DEX was only associated with accelerated epithelial cell migration in models where IGF-I (or a synthetic agonist) was highly abundant. In contrast, DEX by itself slowed migration speed in cell culture. These findings suggest that IGF-I may be a mediator of steroid effect during precocious maturation of the ileal mucosa.
Applications of interaction traps/two-hybrid systems to biotechnology research

Two-hybrid methods provide a simple and sensitive means to detect the interaction between two proteins in living cells. Their use has resulted in the isolation of new proteins and has facilitated characterization of particular protein-protein interactions. These techniques have already resulted in the identification of important targets for pharmaceutical intervention, and it is likely that their extension in coming years will facilitate the development of new drugs.
AC electrical characterisation and insight to charge transfer mechanisms in DNA molecular wires through temperature and UV effects

In this study, AC characterisation of DNA molecular wires, effects of frequency, temperature and UV irradiation on their conductivity is presented. λ-DNA molecular wires suspended between high aspect-ratio electrodes exhibit highly frequency-dependent conductivity that approaches metal-like behaviour at high frequencies (∼MHz). Detailed temperature dependence experiments were performed that traced the impedance response of λ-DNA until its denaturation. UV irradiation experiments where conductivity was lost at higher and longer UV exposures helped to establish that it is indeed λ-DNA molecular wires that generate conductivity. The subsequent renaturation of λ-DNA resulted in the recovery of current conduction, providing yet another proof of the conducting DNA molecular wire bridge. The temperature results also revealed hysteretic and bi-modal impedance responses that could make DNA a candidate for nanoelectronics components like thermal transistors and switches. Further, these experiments shed light on the charge transfer mechanism in DNA. At higher temperatures, the expected increase in thermal-induced charge hopping may account for the decrease in impedance supporting the ‘charge hopping mechanism’ theory. UV light, on the other hand, causes damage to GC base-pairs and phosphate groups reducing the path available both for hopping and short-range tunneling mechanisms, and hence increasing impedance – this again supporting both the ‘charge hopping’ and ‘tunneling’ mechanism theories.
Optimal linear inverse solution with multiple priors in diffuse optical tomography

A general framework for incorporating single and multiple priors in diffuse optical tomography is described. We explore the use of this framework for simultaneously utilizing spatial and spectral priors in the context of imaging breast cancer. The utilization of magnetic resonance images of water and lipid content as a statistical spatial prior for the diffuse optical image reconstructions is also discussed. Simulations are performed to demonstrate the significant improvement in image quality afforded by combining spatial and spectral priors.
The Cortical Control of Movement Revisited

Recently, we found that electrical stimulation of motor cortex caused monkeys to make coordinated, complex movements. These evoked movements were arranged across the cortex in a map of spatial locations to which the hand moved. We suggest that some of the subdivisions previously described within primary motor and premotor cortex may represent different types of actions that monkeys tend to make in different regions of space. According to this view, primary and premotor cortex may fit together into a larger map of manual space.
Intraocular metallic-appearing foreign bodies after phacoemulsification

Intraocular metallic-appearing foreign bodies in the anterior segment were seen in six eyes after cataract extraction by two-handed phacoemulsification. These fragments produced no symptoms and had no clinically significant effect on visual function. Similar-appearing foreign bodies were experimentally produced by applying ultrasound power with a phacoemulsification handpiece to the surface of a cyclodialysis spatula in vitro. Microscopic examination of the phaco handpiece tip and cyclodialysis spatulas revealed numerous surface irregularities, suggesting a possible source of these fragments. These results suggest that instrument touch during phacoemulsification may be the cause of the fragments. Long-term follow-up of these patients is required to determine the overall effect of the fragments.
Photoelectric lightcurves of asteroid 18 Melpomene

The asteroid 18 Melpomene was observed photoelectrically on six nights in 1978 from October 28 to December 11. A rotation period of 11.572 + or - 0.002 h with an amplitude of 0.30 magnitude was derived from these observations. The asteroid was almost exactly at minimum brightness at the time it occulted SAO 114159 on December 11, 1978. Several light curves obtained in August 1974 suggest an amplitude of approximately 0.2 magnitude at that aspect.
The relationship between split-line orientation and in vivo bone strain in galago (G. crassicaudatus) and macaque (Macaca mulatta and M. fascicularis) Mandibles

There is still disagreement concerning the functional significance of split-line patterns in bone. This study was undertaken to reexamine the mechanical forces hypothesis for split-line formation by comparing split-line patterns with in vivo mandibular bone strain patterns. The relationship between split-line orientation and in vivo stress and strain patterns on macaque and galago mandibles was examined during jaw opening and the power stroke of mastication and incision. An attempt was made to relate split-line orientation to the direction of tensile stress and strain along the primate mandible. In addition, we also investigated the alternative possibility that split-line orientation is related to the direction of low stresses (and strains) on the primate mandible. The results of this study showed that there was no consistent relationship between split-line orientation and the principal strains or stresses. Thus, split-lines did not run consistently in the direction of high or low stress and strain. Therefore, we have concluded that split-line orientation provides little useful information for inferring patterns of stress and strain in bone.
Hydroxyalkenals and Oxidized Phospholipids Modulation of Endothelial Cytoskeleton, Focal Adhesion and Adherens Junction Proteins in Regulating Endothelial Barrier Function

Lipid peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids generates bioactive aldehydes, which exhibit pro- and anti-inflammatory effects in cells and tissues. Accumulating evidence indicates that 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), a major aldehyde derived from lipid peroxidation of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids trigger signals that modulates focal adhesion and adherens junction proteins thereby inducing endothelial barrier dysfunction. Similarly, oxidized phospholipids (Ox-PLs) generated by lipid peroxidation of phospholipids with polyunsaturated fatty acids have been implicated in atherogenesis, inflammation and gene expression. Interestingly, physiological concentration of Ox-PLs is anti-inflammatory and protect against endotoxin- and ventilator-associated acute lung injury. Thus, excess generation of bioactive hydroxyalkenals and Ox-PLs during oxidative stress contributes to pathophysiology of various diseases by modulating signaling pathways that regulate pro- and anti-inflammatory responses and barrier regulation. This review summarizes the role of 4-HNE and Ox-PLs affecting cell signaling pathways and endothelial barrier dysfunction through modulation of the activities of proteins/enzymes by Michael adducts formation, enhancing the level of protein tyrosine phosphorylation of the target proteins, and by reorganization of cytoskeletal, focal adhesion, and adherens junction proteins. A better understanding of molecular mechanisms of hydroxyalkenals- and Ox-PLs-mediated pro-and anti-inflammatory responses and barrier function may lead to development of novel therapies to ameliorate oxidative stress related cardio-pulmonary disorders.
Early geodynamo could have been driven by magma in lower mantle

A new study suggesting that early in Earth's history the magnetic field may have been generated not in the core but by a magma ocean at the base of the lower mantle could change scientists' understanding of the magnetic history of Earth.
On the origin of reverse polarity TCRs

Reverse polarity, or South-then-North (SN) bipolar, traveling compression regions (SN TCRs) are often observed in the Earth's magnetotail lobes. These events have been interpreted as either slowly earthward propagating “proto-plasmoids” during extremely quiet geomagnetic conditions, or due to pressure pulses in the solar wind or magnetosheath compressing the magnetotail. This study presents a survey of 21 IMP 8 observations of SN TCRs and the corresponding solar wind pressure conditions as measured by WIND. We found that solar wind or magnetosheath pressure pulses nicely explain most (17), though not all, of the SN TCR observations. Therefore, it appears that both explanations previously given are needed to explain SN TCRs. We also found that most of these events occurred during northward Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) conditions. This suggests that the magnetotail may respond differently to solar wind dynamic pressure pulses for different orientations of the IMF.
Sonance design of large induction motors

MOTOR NOISE must be reduced to ever lower levels to meet the new demands of motor users. Today, an increasing awareness of noise is largely caused by the progressive mechanization of our lives, requiring use of noise-producing machines, as well as by the emphasis in recent years on physiological and psychological effects.
Absolutely continuous spectrum of one random elliptic operator

Abstract We consider an elliptic random operator, which is the sum of the differential part and the potential. The potential considered in the paper is the same as the one in the Andersson model, however the differential part of the operator is different from the Laplace operator. We prove that such an operator has absolutely continuous spectrum on all of ( 0 , ∞ ) .
Prediction of orbit decay through next solar cycle solar mesosphere explorer

This study [Tobiska, 19851 develops an empirical model of the thermospheric densities through the next solar cycle as it relates to the problem of low-Earth orbit satellite drag and orbit decay. A comparison is done between the predicted orbit decay using the model and the first 37 months of actual altitude decay of the Solar Mesosphere Explorer (SME) satellite. Predictions of less than a year have led to less than 1 km difference between actual and modeled altitudes. Medium term predictions (5 years) indicate a 5 km range of uncertainty while the long term prediction points to under a year probable reentry interval during the mid-1990's. Numerical results are given for the model and are compared to the definitive ephemeris data. The simplified semi-analytic method of orbit determination with drag perturbation used here is valid only for near circular orbit satellites.
Blameworthy Action and Character

A number of philosophers from Hume on have claimed that it does not make sense to blame people for acting badly unless their bad acts were rooted in their characters. In this paper, I distinguish a stronger and a weaker version of this claim. The claim is false, I argue, if it is taken to mean that agents can only be blamed for bad acts when those acts are manifestations of character paws. However, what is both true and important is the weaker claim that an act is not blameworthy unless it is rooted in some enduring aspect or aspects of the agent's character that may or may not be flaws, and that, if flaws, may or may not be bad in the same way that the act itself is.
GaAlAs-GaAs ballistic hetero-junction bipolar transistor

A novel heterojunction bipolar transistor structure is proposed using the ballistic electron motion concept. Electrons which surmount the conduction band spike barrier (<?E??L) are accelerated into the base at higher velocities than the diffusion velocity. Calculations derived from a drift-diffusion emission model illustrate the trade-off possible between the injection efficiency and the electron velocity through the base.
Life from a Rooted Perspective

Chamovitz provides an anti-sensationalist perspective on plants' abilities to sense and respond to their surroundings.
Inter-Tree Variation of Essential Oil Composition of Thuja occidentalis L.

ABSTRACT Variation in the composition and yield of the essential oils of Michigan grown northern white cedar (Thuja occidentalis L.) is reported. Comparison of oil isolated from the foliage of individual trees revealed significant inter-tree variation in oil composition. The optimal pilot scale distillation time was found to be about 40 minutes. Total oil yield using steam distillation is almost identical among the ten trees analyzed, but ketone content and diterpene percentages vary significantly from tree to tree. Ketone content of T. occidentalis can be used as criteria for tree selection since its percentage varies widely from 58 to 77%. Diterpene content may also prove useful as markers but more work is needed to help quantify the genetic and environmental components of phenotypic variation.
Colorimetric determination of persulfate with alcian blue

Abstract Alcian blue buffered at pH 2.5 is oxidized by persulfate. The plot of optical density at 615 mμ vs. concentration of persulfate (within the range of 10 to 80 μg) is linear. The assay is not affected by bromate and iodate.