cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Expression of transcribed ultraconserved regions of genome in rat cerebral cortex

Emerging evidence indicates that 481 regions of the genome (>200 bp) that actively transcribe noncoding RNAs shows 100% homology between humans, rats and mice. These transcribed ultraconserved regions (T-UCRs) are thought to control the essential regulatory functions basic for life in rodents and mammals. Using microarray analysis, we presently show that 107 T-UCRs are actively expressed in adult rat cerebral cortex. They are grouped into intragenic (61) and intergenic (46) based on their genic location. Interestingly, 10 T-UCRs are expressed at unusually high levels in cerebral cortex. Additionally, many T-UCRs also showed cogenic expression. We further analyzed the correlation of intragenic T-UCRs with their host protein coding genes. Surprisingly, most of the expressed intragenic T-UCRs (54 out of 61) displayed a negative correlation with their host gene expression. T-UCRs are thought to control the splicing and transcription of the protein-coding genes that host them and flank them. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that the protein products of majority of these genes are nuclear in localization, share protein domains and are involved in the regulation of diverse biological and molecular functions including metabolism, development, cell cycle, binding and transcription factor regulation. In conclusion, this is the first study to shows that many T-UCRs are expressed in rodent brain and they might play a role in physiological brain functions.
Hemostasis and hemostatic agents in minimally invasive surgery

As minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has grown in scope and complexity, new challenges have been introduced along the way, including the need for endoscopic hemostatic techniques. Traditional electrical and mechanical means are still the mainstay, but new technologies for hemostasis continue to emerge. Restricted access to the operative site can limit the use of some tools, and yet multiple chemical hemostats and tamponading agents are used in MIS today. Systemic agents also have been developed and have a role in certain MIS circumstances. These products allow surgeons to continue to approach more difficult procedures using minimally invasive techniques. On the horizon are the newer, even less-invasive approaches of natural orifice endoluminal and transluminal surgery, which will increase the difficulties with reliable hemostat agents and delivery mechanisms.
Modification of conventional high-performance liquid chromatography equpment for use in carbon dioxide supercritical fluid chromatography

Abstract Rapid and simple modifications of conventional high-performance liquid chromatography equpment enabled use of the system for carbon dioxide supercritical fluid chromatography. No permanent alteratinos were required, and the sytem could be used interchangeably for conventional or supercritical fluid chromatographh. The system described was capable of operating in four elution modes: (1) isocratic—isobaric; (2) solvent gradient; (3) flow gradient; (4) combined solvent—flow gradient. Each elution mode was successfully used for the separation of a polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbon mixture. Effects of system parameters, such as pressure, temperature, and flow-rate were also examined.
Gender HCI issues in problem-solving software

Thus far, researchers have not investigated gender HCI issues in the context of end-user problem-solving software. Designers' ignorance of gender differences is particularly evident in studies showing software is unintentionally designed for males. We are investigating gender HCI issues using quantitative and qualitative empirical methods, using formative work to consider gender-conscious design features, implementing these features in our research prototype, and following up with summative work to evaluate effectiveness.
The relation between local and global transport parameters in an epithelial membrane having an asymmetric transport mechanism.

Abstract The relationship between local and global transport parameters is derived for an epithelial membrane having series-parallel topology and an asymmetric transport mechanism at its apical and/or basolateral cell membranes. The result shows that the difference in the local forward and backward solute permeability coefficients is manifest in the global volume flow equation as distinct forward and backward reflection coefficients. The analytical result is applicable to the first order (low concentration) domain of Michaelis-Menten kinetics and a procedure is given for simulating the remainder of the domain on SPICE2.
How routine facilitates wellbeing in older women

A qualitative research design using grounded theory methodology was employed to explore how seven Caucasian women, free of major functional impairments, used routine to influence their wellbeing. Of particular interest was the meaning and purpose of routine to them. Data were collected via in-depth interviews, autobiography, observations, and researcher generated memos. Data analysis was concurrent and reflexive with data collection and comprised concept development, modification, and integration. A theoretical model was developed that describes the primary conditions and processes through which routine was used to maximize wellbeing in these participants. Routines were linked with the following nine adaptive outcomes for these participants: to meet obligations; maintain activity level; maintain health; anticipate or look forward to things; maintain control; balance work, rest and play; accomplish and achieve; feel good about self; and provide continuity. Findings underscore the importance of helping older adults to continue to thread past themes of meaning into their current life contexts and occupations. Routine had the benefit of providing a time anchor for these participants that increased their likelihood of doing an occupation especially if others were and remained involved in the routine. Copyright © 1997 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
A new kinetic model for anisothermal metallurgical transformations in steels including effect of austenite grain size

Abstract In this paper, we propose a new kinetic model for anisothermal metallurgical transformations, valid for diffusion controlled as well as martensitic transformations. It is first described in the case of two phases and a unique transformation, then extended to the case of n phases and several (possibly simultaneous and unsymmetrical) transformations. The effect of austenite grain size can also be included; an evolution equation for austenite grain size is then needed. We show that the classical equation is limited to the case of constant austenite proportion, and propose a reasonable extension of this classical equation to the general case.
The sedimentation and conformational variance among T-even bacteriophages.

Abstract The effect of adsorption cofactors and ionic strength on the sedimentation behavior of T-even bacteriophages was examined. It was found that while indole or l -tryptophan had no effect on the adsorption properties of T2L or T6, these compounds had marked effects on the bacteriophages' sedimentation behavior. Indole mediated a transition from the 700 S form of T2L to both an 800 S and a 900 S form, and l -tryptophan mediated a transition from the 1000 S form of T6 to an 800 S form. At increasingly higher ionic strengths, the 900 S form of T4B, T4B01, and T4D was gradually transformed to a 700 S form. High ionic strength solutions maintained T2L and T6 in the 1000 S form. A morphological basis of all these sedimentation forms was presented. An essential feature of this involved changes in head configuration. The sedimentation behavior of free heads from either amber or wild-type bacteriophage was also investigated and it was found that free heads exhibited two sedimentation coefficients differing by about 46%. This behavior was related to the sedimentation properties of intact phage particles and indicated that the head could undergo configurational changes.
Adaptive Recursive Prediction of the Desired Torque of a Hybrid Powertrain

Hybrid powertrain provides driving torque based upon the vehicle acceleration pedal position. Due to the slow response of the internal combustion (IC) engine, the electric motor(s) (EM) often has to provide additional torque during transient vehicle operations. During cold-start operations, the available battery power is significantly reduced due to cold temperatures, and due to the starting delay of the IC engine, the battery has to provide power at the level beyond its normal operation limit for the electrical motor to meet the torque demand, which would dramatically shorten the battery life. However, if the desired powertrain torque can be predicted, the IC engine could be started early when the predicted future powertrain power is higher than the battery normal operational range, and hence, the duration of battery operated over its normal operational range could be significantly reduced, leading to extended battery life. This makes predicting multistep future torque demand, based upon current and past torque demand data, an important subject. Amid many existing studies, few research studies were focused on this subject. This paper proposes an adaptive recursive prediction algorithm to estimate the future desired powertrain torque and compares the performance of the proposed algorithm with two existing prediction algorithms, i.e., step-by-step and fixed-gain algorithms. These three prediction algorithms are studied under the federal test procedure (FTP) and another four typical driving cycles. The simulation results show that the adaptive recursive prediction algorithm reduces the prediction error significantly with a 4% maximum prediction error, and in addition, the reduced computational load makes it feasible for real-time implementation. The introduced weighting factors for the past and current data are the key to improve prediction accuracy and avoid prediction calculation over- and underflow. In addition, due to the online update of regression gain, the proposed algorithm is also robust to driving behavior variations.
Groups praise, criticize Bush Transition choices

As the administration of George W. Bush takes hold in the White House, transition plans gradually are coming into focus for many federal agencies that deal with geoscience issues. Congressional confirmation hearings already have been held for cabinet secretary nominees—including Gale Norton, the controversial figure named to head the Department of the Interior. Bush transition team members have fanned out to visit a number of agencies, and interest groups have lined up to either criticize or praise various appointment decisions that affect geoscience issues. Among cabinet nominees, New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman has received mixed reviews as nominee to head the Environmental Protection Agency and is widely viewed as a moderate on environmental issues. Spencer Abraham, nominated to lead the Department of Energy co-sponsored a bill to abolish the department in 1999 while he represented Michigan in the Senate. However, there has not been a groundswell of political energy expended to try to challenge his nomination.
Towards a theory of parallel algorithms on concrete data structures

Berry and Curien, building on Kahn and Plotkin’s theory of Concrete Data Structures and sequential functions, have defined a sequential exponentiation of Concrete Data Structures. Their construction gives rise to an appealing intensional model of sequential computation. We propose to develop a similar intensional model of concurrent computation by formulating an appropriate notion of parallel algorithm and generalizing their construction to obtain a parallel exponentiation. The introduction of parallelism into this setting raises many interesting issues, which we begin to investigate in this paper. We hope that our ideas will yield insights into the mathematical treatment of parallel programming.
High spectral resolution lidar to measure optical scattering properties of atmospheric aerosols. 1: Theory and instrumentation

A high spectral resolution lidar technique to measure optical scattering properties of atmospheric aerosols is described. Light backscattered by the atmosphere from a narrowband optically pumped oscillator-amplifier dye laser is separated into its Doppler broadened molecular and elastically scattered aerosol components by a two-channel Fabry-Perot polyetalon interferometer. Aerosol optical properties, such as the backscatter ratio, optical depth, extinction cross section, scattering cross section, and the backscatter phase function, are derived from the two-channel measurements.
Prescription Drug Dependence in the Elderly Population: Demographic and Clinical Features of 100 Inpatients

Objective To determine the prevalence of prescription drug dependence among elderly persons in an inpatient treatment setting, to identify apparent risk factors for drug dependence, and to ascertain what factors led to admission of these patients. Design We reviewed the medical records of 100 elderly patients dependent on prescription drugs who were admitted to the Mayo Inpatient Addiction Program between 1974 and 1993. Material and Methods Demographic features, chronic medical disorders, categories of substance dependence, diagnoses of mental disorders, and Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory data were compiled and analyzed. Results The mean annual admissions rates for three substance use disorder groups among all elderly persons treated during the 20-year period of study were as follows: alcohol only, 72%; prescription drugs, 16%; and both alcohol and drugs, 12%. The group as a whole was socially intact. Female gender seemed to be a risk factor for drug dependence. By several measures, these elderly patients were characterized as a psychiatric population. The most frequent drug dependence involved sedatives or hypnotics. General medical data did not suggest that these elderly persons were more physically impaired than the general population. Conclusion In elderly patients, awareness of coexistent diagnoses is essential in avoiding the inappropriate administration of multiple pharmaceutical agents and the possible risk of associated drug abuse and dependence.
Intra-articular morphine after arthroscopic knee operation

Reports on pain relief with intra-articular morphine after arthroscopic knee operation are conflicting. To assess the long-term antinociceptive effect of intraarticular morphine, we studied pain at rest, pain on standing and ability to walk for 7 days after intraarticular injection of bupivacaine 100 mg (group 1, n = 11), bupivacaine 100 mg and morphine 1 mg (group 2, n = 10) and bupivacaine 100 mg and morphine 3mg (group 3, n = 10) at the end of operation. Pain and walking were assessed by visual analogue and walking scales, respectively. Pain was treated with morphine i.v. in the recovery room and Tylenol No. 3 after discharge. Assessments were made before operation, and 1, 3, 6 and 12 h after injection and on days 1–7 after operation. There were significant differences between the groups in pain scores (pain at rest, P
Examination of Young Children's Gender-Doing and Gender-Bending in Their Play Dynamics: A Cross-Cultural Exploration.

The purpose of the study was to explore how young children express their perception of gender dynamics (e.g., gender-bending and gender-doing) in their play. A total of 84 children (52 boys and 32 girls) and 4 teachers from the U.S. and South Korea participated in the study. To capture perspectives from the children, qualitative data were collected from semi-structured interviews, classroom discussion, and children’s free drawings. Data were descriptively analysed to find patterns of the children’s perception. The findings indicated young children from both cultures were aware of the gender differences in their play that reflected gender-doing. The children also perceived that they could bend a little to act like members of the other gender (gender-bending) as their interests emerged within a play context; however, S. Korea kindergarten children, particularly boys, clearly exhibited discomfort when playing with members of the opposite gender or gender-bending in their play dynamics.
Guaranteed avoidance strategies

We consider a dynamical system under the control of two agents, one of whom desires to keep the system's state out of a given set regardless of the other agent's actions. The guaranteed avoidance conditions of Ref. 1 are generalized to admit piecewiseC1 test functions; this generalization permits application to a wider class of problems. The results are illustrated by application to a version of the homicidal chauffeur game.
Losartan improves exercise tolerance in patients with diastolic dysfunction and a hypertensive response to exercise

Abstract OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to test the hypothesis that angiotensin II (Ang II) blockade would improve exercise tolerance in patients with diastolic dysfunction and a marked increase in systolic blood pressure (SBP) during exercise. BACKGROUND Diastolic dysfunction may be exacerbated during exercise, especially if there is a marked increase in SBP. Angiotensin II may contribute to the hypertensive response to exercise and impair diastolic performance. METHODS We performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study of two weeks of losartan (50 mg q.d.) on exercise tolerance and quality of life. The subjects were 20 patients, mean age 64 ± 10 years with normal left ventricular systolic function (EF >50%), no ischemia on stress echocardiogram, mitral flow velocity E/A 200 mm Hg). Exercise echocardiograms (Modified Bruce Protocol) and the Minnesota Living With Heart Failure questionnaire were administered at baseline, and after each two-week treatment period, separated by a two-week washout period. RESULTS Resting blood pressure (BP) was unaltered by placebo or losartan. During control, patients were able to exercise for 11.3 ± 2.5 (mean ± SD) min, with a peak exercise SBP of 226 ± 24 mm Hg. After two weeks of losartan, baseline BP was unaltered, but peak SBP during exercise decreased to 193 ± 27 mm Hg (p CONCLUSIONS In patients with Doppler evidence of diastolic dysfunction at rest and a hypertensive response to exercise, Ang II receptor blockade blunts the hypertensive response to exercise, increases exercise tolerance and improves quality of life.
Ultrastructural pathology of murine pneumonitis caused by K-Papovavirus.

Abstract The pathologic changes which occur in suckling white Swiss mice at various periods of time after inoculation with K-virus are described. It was found that viral replication takes place in the nuclei of pulmonary endothelial cells, and that viral particles then appear in the cytoplasm of host endothelial cells, pulmonary and splenic macrophages, liver sinusoidal lining cells, and polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Discrete viral inclusions were not observed in endothelial nuclei, and viral replication appeared to take place diffusely in the host nuclei. Cross-striated, electron-dense material was present in association with phagocytized virus which was thought to be due to viral degradation occurring as a consequence of intracytoplasmic digestion.
Using decision analysis to choose phosphorus targets for Lake Erie.

Lake Erie water quality has improved dramatically since the degraded conditions of the 1960s. Additional gains could be made, but at the expense of further investment and reductions in fishery productivity. In facing such cross-jurisdictional issues, natural resource managers in Canada and the United States must grapple with conflicting objectives and important uncertainties, while considering the priorities of the public that live in the basin. The techniques and tools of decision analysis have been used successfully to deal with such decision problems in a range of environmental settings, but infrequently in the Great Lakes. The objective of this paper is to illustrate how such techniques might be brought to bear on an important, real decision currently facing Lake Erie resource managers and stakeholders: the choice of new phosphorus loading targets for the lake. The heart of our approach is a systematic elicitation of stakeholder preferences and an investigation of the degree to which different phosphorus-loading policies might satisfy ecosystem objectives. Results show that there are potential benefits to changing the historical policy of reducing phosphorus loads in Lake Erie.
The Measurement of Human Penile Tumescence

The techniques of penile measurement have been developed in numerous laboratories in Europe, Australia, and the United States. Most researchers now use either circumference or volumetric devices, depending on the research rationale. Thermistors have not been adequately evaluated. This paper reviews the important measurement issues associated with each device, as well as relevant construction information. Examples of applied research are provided. With respect to overall efficacy of the transducers, we recommend volumetric procedures where precision of measurement is of critical importance. However, for efficiency and ease of use the circumference devices, particularly the mercury-in-rubber gauge, appear optimal. Penile tumescence measurement is of fundamental importance in determining basic parameters of the psychophysiological process of human sexual arousal.
Behavioral and adrenocorticoid responsiveness of squirrel monkeys to a live snake: is flight necessarily stressful?

Bolivian and Guyanese squirrel monkeys were assessed for responses to a live boa constrictor snake and to the novelty/disturbance associated with this presentation. Wild-born animals from adult groups which contained males, females, and pregnant females were tested during both individual and group conditions. The latter condition involved placing the empty or snake-occupied wire-mesh stimulus box on top of the group's home cage. In the individual conditions, an animal was removed from the social group cage and placed alone in a vertically oriented test cage with the stimulus box on top. Spatial and behavioral measures were recorded during these 30-min experimental sessions, and blood samples for plasma cortisol analysis were obtained at the end of each weekly session. Blood samples were also taken during undisturbed conditions 1 week before and after the experimental period. All monkeys revealed agitated behavior in the presence of the snake. In contrast, the cortisol levels in response to the snake and empty box were not different for any group of animals. However, the mean of the two individual tests was greater than the mean of the group tests for males, females, or pregnant females. These data support previous studies which indicate that wild-born squirrel monkeys clearly respond with behavioral distress to a live snake. Although cortisol elevations were not specifically produced by exposure to the snake, the responsiveness of the squirrel monkey pituitary—adrenal system to novelty was demonstrated, as all types of monkeys showed significant elevations to the disturbance/novelty of the individual tests.
Unequilibrated ordinary chondrites: A tentative subclassification based on volatile-element content

In view of the lack of correlation sometimes encountered between the volatile content and metamorphism measures of primitiveness for unequilibrated ordinary chondrites (UOCs), a tentative classification scheme is developed which is based on volatile content and complements the Sears et al. (1980) scheme based on metamorphism. The classification is based primarily on C and Xe, which are not significantly affected by shock-induced reheating. It is noted that novel clues to the formation of chondrites may be derivable from Xe and C; their concentrations in UOCs vary by a factor greater than 5, yet the Xe/C ratio remains nearly constant at 0.0034 of the solar system ratio.
Preparation of enol lactones of 3,5,7-triketo and 3,5,7,9-tetraketo acids by the condensation of 4,6-dimethoxy-2-pyrone with anions of mono- and diketones

Abstract Condensation of the anions of acetone, acetophenone, acetylacetone and benzoylacetone with 4,6-dimethoxy-2-pyrone afforded good yields of the corresponding 6 substituted 4-methoxy-2-pyrones which were converted to the 4-hydroxy analogs by demethylation with iodotrimethylsilane.
Intelligence and the rest of cognition

Abstract Cognitive psychologists have become enamored with intelligence. Increasingly, the theories, findings, and methods of what is known as the information processing approach are being used in attempts to explain intelligence related phenomena. This article examines intelligence from a different perspective, which emphasizes domain-specific constraints on knowledge structures. It is argued that conceptions of what intelligence is and how it relates to the rest of cognition can vary considerably when viewed from the vantage points of these two perspectives. The constraints approach views intelligence as being closely related to a special subset of all of our cognitive abilities and as having unique distinguishing properties. It is also argued that the evaluation of any cognitive ability as being intelligent depends crucially on a prior specification of the formal constraints on the domain or domains of knowledge from which that ability originates.
Positional Calibration of an Ultrasound Image-Guided Robotic Breast Biopsy System

OBJECTIVES Precision biopsy of small lesions is essential in providing high-quality patient diagnosis and management. Localization depends on high-quality imaging. We have developed a dedicated, fully automatic volume breast ultrasound (US) imaging system for early breast cancer detection. This work focuses on development of an image-guided robotic biopsy system that is integrated with the volume breast US system for performing minimally invasive breast biopsies. The objective of this work was to assess the positional accuracy of the robotic system for breast biopsy. METHODS We have adapted a compact robotic arm for performing breast biopsy. The arm incorporates a force torque sensor and is modified to accommodate breast biopsy sampling needles mounted on the robot end effector. Volume breast US images are used as input to a targeting algorithm that provides the physician with control of biopsy device guidance and trajectory optimization. In this work, the positional accuracy was evaluated using (1) a light-emitting diode (LED) mounted on the end effector and (2) a LED mounted on the end of a biopsy needle, each of which was imaged for each robot controller position as part of mapping the positional accuracy throughout a volume that would contain the breast. We measured the error in each location and the cumulative error. RESULTS Robotic device performance over the volume provided mean accuracy ± SD of 0.76 ± 0.13 mm (end effector) and 0.55 ± 0.13 mm (needle sample location), sufficient for a targeting accuracy within ±1 mm, which is suitable for clinical use. Depth positioning error also was small: 0.38 ± 0.03 mm. Reproducibility was excellent with less than 0.5% variation. CONCLUSIONS Overall accuracy and reproducibility of the compact robotic device were excellent, well within clinical biopsy performance requirements. Volume breast US data provide high-quality input to a biopsy sampling algorithm under physician control. Robotic devices may provide more precise device placement, assisting physicians with biopsy procedures.
Sex determination: Co-opted signals determine gender

Abstract The Drosophila JAK–STAT pathway and its ligand Unpaired are required for a wide range of developmental processes. Recent results have identified Unpaired as an activator of sex-lethal and revealed a new role for the JAK–STAT pathway in sex determination.
Identifying Mothers at Risk for Postnatal Emotional Distress: Further Evidence for the Validity of the Perinatal Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Questionnaire

OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the construct validity of the Perinatal Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Questionnaire. STUDY DESIGN: Using a convergent/divergent validity design and two data sources (traditional survey and World Wide Web), 121 high-risk and 52 low-risk mothers answered four questionnaires. RESULTS: High-risk mothers scored higher than low-risk mothers on all measures of emotional distress. There were significant positive correlations among the convergent measures of emotional distress, which were significantly larger than any correlation of the divergent measure with a convergent measure. Scores on the Perinatal Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Questionnaire were positively related to mothers seeking formal psychotherapy for their childbirth experiences. Questionnaire responses were not related to data source. CONCLUSION: The Perinatal Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Questionnaire is a useful tool for identifying significant emotional distress in mothers during the postnatal period.
Authorship and Publication Practices: Evaluation of the Effect of Responsible Conduct of Research Instruction to Postdoctoral Trainees

We have studied postdoctoral trainees funded by NIH F32 fellowship awards in order to test the effectiveness of responsible conduct of research (RCR) education in the areas of authorship and publication practices. We used a 3-wave telephone and on-line survey design, conducted over a period of two years, in order to test for individual change before and after completing RCR education. Overall the responses of the subjects suggested a clear awareness of standards and practices in publication. However, our results failed to suggest that RCR education in this group significantly increased the level of ethically appropriate behavioral responses measured in the study. Similarly we saw no significant effect on increasing awareness of or attention to ethical guidelines about authorship and publication practices. Our interpretation of these null findings was influenced by the significant publication experience of our cohort of subjects. We forward possible explanations for these null findings in this context. Most importantly, we do not suggest that our results argue against continued instruction in RCR education. Instead, we believe our data reinforce the importance of careful articulation of course goals and objectives with attention to the background and experience of the student audience when developing RCR curricula.
Architectural simulations of a fast, source-synchronous ring-based Network-on-Chip design

Recently, a new source-synchronous ring-based NoC architecture has been proposed, which runs significantly faster than the PEs and offers a high bandwidth and low contention free latency. Architectural simulations show that the original ring-based NoC design suffers from deadlock. In this paper, we explore the architectural aspects of the fast ring-based NoC after redesigning the routers used in the previous authors' work to avoid deadlock. Architectural results obtained on synthetic traffic demonstrate that the modified ring-based NoC has up to 3.5× lower latency and up to 2.9× higher maximum sustained injection rate compared with a state of the art mesh-based NoC.
Nuclear injection of anti-pigpen antibodies inhibits endothelial cell division

Abstract Endothelial cell proliferation is required for angiogenesis in both embryonic and adult tissues. In rat brain tumors, it has recently been shown that the nuclear protein pigpen is expressed selectively in endothelial cells of developing microvasculature but not in the established peritumoral vessels (Blank, M., Weinschenk, T., Priemer, M., and Schluesener, H. (2001)J. Biol. Chem. 276, 16464–16468). This finding suggests that pigpen may be important for promoting the undifferentiated, or “angiogenic” endothelial cell phenotype. Our studies show that pigpen protein and mRNA are expressed in actively dividing endothelial cells and down-regulated as they become confluent. Protein distribution is regulated in a cell cycle-dependent manner. We conclude that this expression pattern is important for and not simply ancillary to proliferation because nuclear microinjection of anti-pigpen Fab fragments inhibited endothelial cell division. Moreover, expression of the proliferating cell marker Ki67 was inhibited in antibody-injected cells. The absence of Ki67 suggests exit from rather than arrest within (for example, at the G1/S interface) the cell cycle. Together with earlier observations on the structure and expression of this molecule, our data support the hypothesis that pigpen helps regulate endothelial cell differentiation state.
Propagation analysis of an 80-Gb/s wavelength-converted signal utilizing XPM

We model the propagation of an 80-Gb/s wavelength-converted signal generated by utilizing XPM in a highly nonlinear fiber. After propagation over 1280 km or less, wavelength conversion adds no signal degradation in terms of BER.
Room Temperature InGaSb Quantum Well Microcylinder Lasers at 2 μm Grown Monolithically on a Silicon Substrate

Room-temperature photopumped lasing operation near 2.0 μm is reported from III-Sb microcylinders grown monolithically on silicon. High quality epitaxy is enabled by an interfacial misfit array. Growth, fabrication and device characterization is discussed.
Adsorption of Oxygen in Laser-Induced Amorphous Silicon

Amorphous silicon has been produced on a single crystalline silicon surface by intense UV laser radiation at 266 nm followed by rapid quenching. In addition, formation of oxide of several tens of nanometers has been observed when irradiation takes place in air or in O2 ambient. Various experimental techniques including Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), sputtered Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES), and differential Fourier-transform IR spectroscopy (FT-IR) have been employed to study adsorption of oxygen during rapid melting and resolidification process. The present results suggest a new processing technique for forming thin oxide film, namely, “Laser-induced oxidation.”
Development of the Acetylcholine Receptor Clusters Induced by Basic Polypeptides in Cultured Muscle Cells

Vertebrate neuromuscular junction is marked by a concentration of acetylcholine receptors (AChR) in the postsynaptic membrane. From studies using electron–microscopic (EM) autoradiography, it has been estimated that there are over ten thousand AChR per square micron within the AChR cluster (1). This concentration of AChR is essential for the efficiency of the synaptic transmission and is the key event in the development of the postjunctional membrane. Tissue culture of neurons and muscle cells has provided a simple and convenient system to study this process. In monolayer cultures, the growth of the neurons and the establishment of the synaptic connection can be followed with high–resolution light microscopy and electron microscopy. The ease of being able to manipulate the preparation also gives it tremendous advantage in physiological and pharmacological studies over the in vivo systems.
Maintenance of cellular acidification in cyanide-treated hepatocytes results from inhibition of Na+/H+ exchange.

Inhibition of respiration by metabolic inhibitors or hypoxia is accompanied by intracellular acidification. Although this acidification is known to promote cell survival during hypoxia, little is known about its mechanism. Given that the Na+/H+ exchanger is known to be a major component of pH regulation in normal hepatocytes, the aim of this study was to determine the effects of inhibition of mitochondrial respiration on intracellular pH (pHi) regulation and Na+/H+ exchange. Cyanide (CN-; 5 mM) plus fructose (20 mM) were used as a model of hypoxic acidosis. pHi was measured with quantitative fluorescence microscopy of cells loaded with the pH indicator, 2',7'-bis-(2-carboxyethyl)-5,6-carboxyfluorescein. In control cells, pHi was 7.09 +/- 0.01 SE (n = 106). After 60 min in CN(-)-fructose, pHi fell to 6.74 +/- 0.01 (n = 129, P < 0.001). The pHi recovery rate (expressed as mmol H+.l-1.min-1) was determined under both conditions after acid loading by transient exposure and removal of 20 mM NH4Cl. Control and CN(-)-treated cells recovered at 3.59 +/- 0.25 (n = 42) and 0.69 +/- 0.09 (n = 38, P < 0.001), respectively. Amiloride treatment (1 mM) in the absence of CN- reduced pHi recovery similarly to that caused by CN- (0.34 +/- 0.07, n = 14). CN(-)-treated cells exposed to amiloride demonstrated no additional inhibition (efflux rate 0.65 +/- 0.11, n = 27), suggesting that the inhibition is directed at Na+/H+ exchange. Twenty minutes after CN- removal, CN(-)-treated cells regained their ability to recover from an acid load, thus demonstrating the reversibility of this effect.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Regulating Conflicts of Interest in Research: The Paper Tiger Needs Real Teeth

This article describes the current state of the regulation of financial conflicts of interest in research in the United States. It notes the implications of the changing academic and private research environment and reviews recent empirical research on (1) the perceived implications of such conflicts on clinician and researcher behavior, and (2) the effect of disclosure of such conflicts to potential research participants. The article also details a number of widely publicized research “scandals” involving conflicts of interest and the effects these may have on both public support for research as well as on the quality of care that ultimately is delivered. The article then discusses current U.S. federal regulations and initiatives by institutions and professional organizations to further guide researchers and describes how conflicts of interest are typically managed by institutions. It also presents a taxonomy of researcher reactions to efforts by institutional conflict of interest committees to regulate these conflicts. It notes critiques by the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (OIG) of the government's role in the current interplay between government agencies, research sponsors, and institutions in regulating conflicts. Concluding that current efforts to regulate conflicts are inadequate, the article sets forth a proposal for reform of the way conflicts of interest are managed at both the federal and institutional levels.
Roll behavior of low aspect ratio, rectangular wings

This paper concentrates on the self-induced roll oscillation behavior of a series of low aspect ratio, rectangular wings (LARR wings) with the aspect ratio range of 0.55 to 0.25. Limit cycle amplitude envelopes for the oscillatory roll motions of these planforms has been established during free-to-roll tests and compared with the results of previous researchers. The results indicate that the models do experience a self-induced roll behavior, commonly know as wing rock, which is dependent upon the orientation of the wing to the freestream flow. Surface flow visualization results, conducted at a = 35" and S o , show a difference in the leeward side, vortical flow structures which is dependent upon angle of attack. At the lower range of the self-induced oscillation envelope, a = 35", the surface flow indicates a leading-edge vortex and two side-edge vortices. In addition, a secondary separation line is also visible on the leeward surface. This secondary separation may indicate the existence of a secondary sideedge vortex. At the higher range of self-induced oscillation, ix = 55", the surface flow indicates the absence of a leadingedge vortex. Also, results show the formation of the secondary separation line is highly dependent upon angle of attack and aspect ratio.
Analysis of Immune Function of Patients with Pneumonia Due to Hemophilies Influenzae

Objectives To discuss immune function of patients with pneumonia due to hemophilies influenzae.Methods Virus and bacteria were detected to identify hemophilies influenzae infection,then T lymphocyte subsets,B lymphocyte and NK cells in peripheral blood in patients with pneumonia were also detected by flow cytometry.Results Compared to the control group,there was no significant difference in T lymphocyte subsets(P0.05).But B lymphocytes increased(P0.05) and natural killer cell decreased(P0.01).Conclusion Humoral immune reaction is strengthened in patients with hemophilies influenzae pneumonia,meanwhile,inherent immunity is weakened.The analysis of immunity in patients after infection is useful in adoption of immunological regulation therapy,and have guiding sense after the condition judgment.
Optimization of Electric-Field and Potential Distribution along Composite Insulators Based on Configuration Method of Inset Electrodes and Grading Ring

Electric-field and potential distribution along composite insulators for power lines has been researched.And a arrangement has been presented to optimization of electric field and potential distribution along composite insulators of power lines,namely arrangement of inset electrodes and grad-ing ring.In the arrangement,a fine metal electrode is embed in each terminal of the fiberglass rod,one inlet electrode and one grading ring are arranged at the conductor terminal while only one inset elec-trode is arranged at the tower terminal.So a low electric field zone is formed among the embed elec-trode,metal fitting and grading ring at the conductor end of the composite insulator,and potential dis-tribution of insulation is reduced.And at the tower terminal,its inset electrode has the same potential with its metal contact,and low axial-direction electric field zone is foemed in the radial vicinity of the inset electrode and the metal contact,which reduced potential distribution of the insulation in the zone;and high electric field is formed at the tip of the inset electrode,which increases the potential distribu-tion underneath this inset electrode.Both calculation and verification test demonstrate that this arrange-ment of inset electrodes and grading ring can effectively enhance the effects of equalizing,shielding and arc leading,and eliminate the electrical corona and flashover.Then the voltage-sharing perfor-mance of composite insulator on power lines is improved.And the method has the advantages of econ-omizing metal consumption and reducing field installation work.
Effects of dietary fat on follicular development and circulating concentrations of lipids, insulin, progesterone, estradiol-17 beta, 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F(2 alpha), and growth hormone in estrous cyclic Brahman cows.

Brahman cows were used to evaluate dietary fat (3.74% [control] and 5.20% [treated]) effects on blood hormone and lipid concentrations, follicular populations, and in vitro steroidogenesis. Cows were fed and ovaries were monitored by ultrasound from d 1 of the first estrous cycle (EC) until the first follicle of the second EC reached 8 mm, at which time ovaries were harvested. Follicular fluid (FF) was collected from large- and medium-sized follicles and assayed for progesterone (P4), estradiol-17 beta (E2), testosterone, cholesterol, and triglycerides. The corpus luteum was removed, minced, treated with LH, and incubated for 4 h. Granulosa cells harvested from the largest follicle were treated with forskolin, LH, or FSH and incubated for 48 h. Blood was collected during the treatment period and plasma assayed for 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F(2 alpha) (PGFM), growth hormone (GH), insulin, P4 and E2. Cholesterol and triglycerides were assayed only from blood samples collected every 7 d. Treated cows had greater (P .10) in both treatment groups. Treated cows tended (P = .10) to have greater PGFM peak concentrations than controls. Plasma cholesterol was elevated (P .10) FF concentrations of P4, E2, testosterone, cholesterol, or triglyceride from either large- or medium-sized follicles. There were no differences (P > .10) in steroid hormones produced in vitro.
Perspectives on the Development of Elastography

Elasticity imaging has emerged as an increasingly popular research and clinical tool for the evaluation of the mechanical properties of tissue in vivo. Using ultrasound and MRI imaging techniques primarily, current applications include imaging the liver, spleen, brain, breast, and thyroid, among other organs, to gain information about normative and disease-related tissue biomechanics that are difficult or impossible to assess using any other technique. The purpose of this chapter is to provide a broad overview of the subject of elasticity imaging. Topics include some of the theoretical considerations of tissue biomechanics that motivated the development of the field, an outline of the various motion sources and imaging techniques used to perform elasticity imaging, and a discussion of some of the most common processing tools used to derive the mechanical properties of tissue from images of tissue motion.
Hyperpycnal transport of carbonaceous sediment – Example from the Upper Devonian Rhinestreet Shale, western New York, U.S.A.

Abstract The Upper Devonian Rhinestreet Shale of the western New York region of the Appalachian Basin contains centimeter-scale composite beds comprised of a thin black shale layer overlain by several cm of gray shale that are interpreted to have been deposited from hyperpycnal turbidity currents. Evidence for this explanation includes (1) the presence of planar-parallel and cross-lamination within some layers and (2) Zr/Al profiles consistent with an inversely graded lower unit overlain by normally graded deposits. Diminished K/Al values of the inferred hyperpycnites suggest that they were generated during periods of increased precipitation and consequent intensified continental weathering of the source region within the tectonically active Acadian highlands. The transition to a wetter climate reflected in these deposits, perhaps a response to astronomically induced variations in tropical monsoonal dynamics, would have increased the frequency and magnitude of floods within the Catskill delta complex thereby enhancing the likelihood that hyperpycnal flows would have been produced. Organic matter contained within the hyperpyncites probably reflects the entrainment of carbonaceous detritus, perhaps much of it in the form fecal pellets, from estuarine and shallow-marine settings during flood-related discharges. Post-depositional oxygen depletion within the organic-rich sediment and related bacterial sulfate reduction resulted in the precipitation of abundant diagenetic pyrite. Intense bioturbation of gray shale intercalated with the dark layers suggests that oxygenated conditions prevailed during accumulation of the Sturgeon Point section. Alternatively, these deposits reflect a history of repeated early diagenetic burn down events that resulted in the strongly reworked nature of the organic-lean gray shale and the sharp upper contacts of the black shale layers. The present study offers an alternative explanation of thin black shale beds hosted within organic-deficient successions beyond models involving marked changes in productivity on the one hand and the establishment of a stratified water column on the other.
Delaying Endpoints in Alzheimer’s Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the nation’s third most costly disease after cancer and heart disease (Ernst et al., 1994). In the United States in 1991, direct medical and social service costs averaged $48,000 per case per year while the total of direct and indirect costs were approximately $174,000 per annum. Total U.S. health care costs including direct and indirect were estimated at $67.3 billion in 1991 and are projected to exceed $80 billion by 1997 (Ernst et al., 1994). This enormous financial burden argues for approaches designed to slow the rate of decline or delay the onset of appearance of the disease.