cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
THE BIOGENESIS OF ANTHOCYANINS. XI. EFFECTS OF GIBBERELLIC ACID IN TWO SPECIES OF SPIRODELA.

Abstract Gibberellic acid (GA3), given at low, physiological concentrations, was found to inhibit anthocyanin and flavonoid biosynthesis markedly in both growing and nongrowing cultures of two species of Spirodela. In growing cultures, very low concentrations of GA3 (10−6–10−7M) promoted anthocyanin formation in the first 7–10 days, but the inhibition increased with time, and after 3 weeks' growth under 300 ft.-c white light a concentration as low as 3 × 10−6M sufficed for 50% inhibition. At these levels, gibberellin had no effect on growth. In total darkness, GA3 decreased the synthesis in S. polyrrhiza by 50% at 1 × 10−7M. In nongrowing cultures, the effect of light was found to overcome the inhibiting effect of GA3 on anthocyanin synthesis. Spirodela oligorrhiza was much less sensitive to inhibition than S. polyrrhiza in such conditions. In both types of cultures, the lower the light intensity, the more readily was the synthesis inhibited. The type of inhibition thus differs from those previously studied, which were most effective in full light; it also differs in not being reversed by riboflavin.
Late tracheotomy is associated with higher morbidity and mortality in mechanically ventilated patients.

Objectives/Hypothesis To determine whether the timing of tracheotomy placement impacts ventilation weaning status and mortality. Study Design Multi-institution retrospective cohort study. Methods Demographic data, procedural details, and clinical outcomes were recorded for patients undergoing tracheotomy for prolonged mechanical ventilation across eight sites. The study group was divided into two groups: those undergoing tracheotomy within 14 days of initiation of mechanical ventilation and those undergoing tracheotomy at or after 14 days. Groups were compared for primary outcome measures of mortality and ability to wean from mechanical ventilation within the study period. Results Of the 539 patients intubated for ventilator dependence with complete data available, 280 (51.9%) underwent tracheotomy within 14 days. Patients who underwent late tracheotomy were 1.72 times more likely to remain ventilator dependent during the follow-up period (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12-2.66), and had a 40% increased risk of death (odds ratio: 1.4, 95% CI: 0.96-1.99). Conclusions In this multicenter retrospective review of tracheotomy outcomes, late tracheotomy placement (>14 days) was associated with increased mortality and prolonged ventilator dependence. Standardized multidisciplinary management protocols for prolonged mechanical ventilation are recommended, and future work should confirm these results in a prospective manner. Level of Evidence 4 Laryngoscope, 125:2134–2138, 2015
The assessment of upper airway patency during apnea using cardiogenic oscillations in the airflow signal

We investigated the relationship between airway patency and the occurrence of cardiogenic related oscillations in the airflow signal during 67 apneas occurring in non-rapid eye movement sleep in eight subjects. Spontaneously occurring apneas and apneas induced by mechanical ventilation were analyzed. Airway occlusion was determined by direct observation of the pharyngeal lumen using fiberoptic endoscopy. The presence or absence of cardiogenic oscillations was determined from an expanded airflow signal by an investigator blinded to the airway patency. Of the total 67 apneas, complete airway occlusion occurred during 51, and the airway remained patent throughout in 16. Cardiogenic oscillations were seen throughout 39 of the 51 occluded apneas and throughout 9 of the 16 apneas with the airway patent. There was no relationship between the occurrence of cardiogenic oscillations and airway patency. In addition, in a canine model where the upper airway was anatomically isolated, cardiogenic oscillations were evident during apneas in pressure signals recorded from the isolated upper airway and in airflow signals at the tracheal stoma. We conclude that cardiogenic oscillations cannot be used to predict airway patency during apnea.
Design architectures for 3g and IEEE 802.11 WLAN integration

Wireless LAN access networks show a strong potential in providing a broadband complement to Third Generation cellular systems. 3G networks provide a wider service area, and ubiquitous connectivity with low-speed data rates. WLAN networks offer higher data rate but cover smaller areas. Integrating 3G and WLAN networks can offer subscribers high-speed wireless data services as well as ubiquitous connectivity. The key issue involved in achieving these objectives is the development of integration architectures of WLAN and 3G technologies. The choice of the integration point depends on a number of factors including handoff latency, mobility support, cost-performance benefit, security, authentication, accounting and billing mechanisms. We review 3G-WLAN integration architectures and investigate two such architectures in the case when the UMTS network is connected to a WLAN network at different integration points, namely the SGSN and the GGSN. The evaluation of these integration architectures were conducted through experimental simulation tests using OPNET.
Direct myocardial effects of precatheterization medications.

Abstract The direct effects of droperidol, fentanyl, Innovar, meperidine, hydroxyzine, and a 1:1 combination of meperidine and hydroxyzine on myocardial contractility were determined utilizing isometrically contracting rabbit right ventricular papillary muscles and human atrial strips. In rabbit papillary muscles, no positive inotropic effects were found for any of these drugs, but each drug except fentanyl produced a dose-dependent decrease in developed stress, dS dt , and time required to reach peak stress. Isolated human atrial strips responded to Innovar and the 1:1 combination of meperidine and hydroxyzine in a manner quantitatively similar to that in the rabbit papillary muscle. At concentrations of these drugs in the muscle bath comparable to measured peak serum levels in man, no change in myocardial contractility was observed.
DPP6 Establishes the A-Type K+ Current Gradient Critical for the Regulation of Dendritic Excitability in CA1 Hippocampal Neurons

Subthreshold-activating A-type K(+) currents are essential for the proper functioning of the brain, where they act to delay excitation and regulate firing frequency. In CA1 hippocampal pyramidal neuron dendrites, the density of A-type K(+) current increases with distance from the soma, playing an important role in synaptic integration and plasticity. The mechanism underlying this gradient has, however, remained elusive. Here, dendritic recordings from mice lacking the Kv4 transmembrane auxiliary subunit DPP6 revealed that this protein is critical for generating the A-current gradient. Loss of DPP6 led to a decrease in A-type current, specifically in distal dendrites. Decreased current density was accompanied by a depolarizing shift in the voltage dependence of channel activation. Together these changes resulted in hyperexcitable dendrites with enhanced dendritic AP back-propagation, calcium electrogenesis, and induction of synaptic long-term potentiation. Despite enhanced dendritic excitability, firing behavior evoked by somatic current injection was mainly unaffected in DPP6-KO recordings, indicating compartmentalized regulation of neuronal excitability.
Reliability of Mooring Systems for a Spar

Mooring systems for floating production systems, including the mooring lines and anchors, are currently designed on the basis of individual components. The most heavily loaded line and anchor are checked under extreme loading conditions with the system of lines intact and with one line removed. However, the performance of the floating production system depends more directly on the performance of the system of lines and anchors rather than on the performance of a single line or anchor. The on-going study conducts the reliability analyses using realistic probabilistic descriptions of the extreme met-ocean conditions (hurricanes and loop currents) for the Gulf of Mexico. Presented in this paper is the methodology of calculating the probabilities of failure of a classical Spar during a 20-year design life for individual components.© 2005 ASME
Understanding and testing for heterogeneity across 2×2 tables: application to meta-analysis

A question of interest in a meta-analysis is whether the studies considered are homogeneous. This paper addresses two forms of heterogeneity. Additive heterogeneity occurs when a particular treatment performs differently in different studies. Interactive heterogeneity occurs when the relative performance of two treatments varies with the study. This paper discusses the use and calculation of Bayes factors to test for both forms of heterogeneity. I consider three hierarchical models. One exhibits both forms of heterogeneity, a second exhibits only additive heterogeneity, and the third model has neither form of heterogeneity. I use a method based on bridge sampling for calculating the Bayes factors between the models. I consider two examples: in one both forms of heterogeneity seem to be present and in the other there seems to be additive heterogeneity but not interactive heterogeneity.
Psychology of the Scientist: XVII. Research has a Place in Private Practice

“How Does a Fee Dependent Psychologist Continue his Scientific and Professional Growth?” was the title of a symposium at a recent APA convention. The purpose of the present article is to illustrate how it was done in a period of 18 yr. from 1934–1952 by one psychologist. Facts concerning money, motivation, and productivity are presented here. Documentary evidence includes a description of the extent and nature of productivity by way of publications as well as a picture of growth as a business enterprise considered financially. This material is preceded by a presentation of data concerning productivity in the Industrial Division since 1927, in the Clinical Division since 1947, followed by a consideration of patterns of professional values and 10 suggestions for improving the situation.
Monitoring air pollutants due to gas flaring using rain water

The paper assessed major air pollutants resulting from gas flaring using rainwater. Rainwater samples were collected during the dry and wet seasons (2002/2003) and analyzed for physico-chemical characteristics such as, pH, TDS, conductivity, NO 3- , CO 3 2- and SO 4 2- . The mean values for the studied parameters during the dry season were pH (5.3) conductivity (20.50 µs/cm), TDS (17.13 mg/L), NO 3- (23 mg/L), S0 4 2- (1.41/ mg/L) and CO 3 2- (16.97 mg/L) and that for wet season were; pH (6.1), conductivity (19.60µs/cm), TDS (16.56mg/L), NO 3- (24mg/L), CO 3 2- (16.13mg/L) SO 4 2- (1.29mg/L). The mean levels of conductivity, TDS, and SO 4 2- were within statutory safe limits, while that of pH, CO 3 2- and NO 3- were above the safe limits specified by the Federal Ministry of Environment guidelines and standards for drinking water quality. Keywords : rainwater, gas flare, pollutants, monitoring, water quality Global Journal of Environmental Sciences Vol. 4(2) 2005: 123–126
Neural and connective tissue response to long‐term implantation of multiple contact nerve cuff electrodes

The objective of this study was to characterize the tissue response to multiple contact spiral nerve cuff electrodes implanted on the sciatic nerve of seven cats for 28-34 weeks. The cuffs were surrounded by fibrous tissue encapsulation consisting of foreign body cells, collagen, and fibroblasts. Focal areas of abnormal neural morphology including perineurial thickening, endoneurial fibrosis, thinly myelinated axons, and focal reduction in the density of myelinated axons were noted in five of seven nerves. In three implants, the percutaneous lead cable was destroyed by the animal pulling on the external leads. Morphological changes were observed in two of three nerves from implants sustaining no known animal induced trauma (group A), and in three of four nerves from implants damaged by the animal pulling at the leads (group B). All nerves appeared normal 2 cm proximal to the cuff. At the cuff level, small regions of one fascicle in each of two nerves (both group B) exhibited abnormalities, while the proximal and distal sections of both nerves were normal. Distal to the cuff, small regions of seven fascicles distributed among three nerves (two group A, one group B) exhibited abnormalities. These nerves were normal at the cuff level but exhibited abnormalities in individual nerve branches distal to the cuff. The incidence and characteristics of the morphological abnormalities at the cuff level are consistent with those observed in previous studies of nerve cuff electrodes, and support the hypothesis that spiral cuff electrodes can be implanted with an internal diameter less than that of the nerve and expand to accommodate the nerve without compression The pattern of morphological abnormalities indicated that mechanical trauma had occurred at some time in the past, and the distribution suggested animal intervention and the lead cable as possible causes.
A Nurr1/CoREST Pathway in Microglia and Astrocytes Protects Dopaminergic Neurons from Inflammation-Induced Death

Nurr1, an orphan nuclear receptor, plays an essential role in the generation and maintenance of dopaminergic neurons in the brain. Rare mutations in Nurr1 are associated with familial Parkinson's disease, but the underlying basis for this relationship has not been established. Here, we demonstrate that Nurr1 unexpectedly functions to inhibit expression of pro-inflammatory neurotoxic mediators in both microglia and astrocytes. Reduced Nurr1 expression results in exaggerated inflammatory responses in microglia that are further amplified by astrocytes, leading to the production of factors that cause death of tyrosine hydroxylase-expressing neurons. Nurr1 exerts anti-inflammatory effects by docking to NF-kappaB-p65 on target inflammatory gene promoters in a signal-dependent manner. Subsequently, Nurr1 recruits the CoREST corepressor complex, resulting in clearance of NF-kappaB-p65 and transcriptional repression. These studies suggest that Nurr1 protects against loss of dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson's disease in part by limiting the production of neurotoxic mediators by microglia and astrocytes.
Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 expression correlates with monocyte infiltration in the post-ischemic kidney

Chemokines play a prominent role in the acute inflammatory response in several models of kidney disease. We reported that monocyte chemotactic peptide-1 (MCP-1) mRNA is increased by ischemia-reperfusion injury. In this report, we examined the effects of ischemia-reperfusion injury on the kinetics and location of MCP-1 protein expression, the excretion of MCP- 1 protein in the urine and on the infiltration of mononuclear cells in the kidney. Pair-fed Sprague-Dawley rats underwent bilateral renal ischemia (50 min) or sham ischemia and placed in metabolic cages for daily urine collections. Kidneys were harvested at d. 1, 3, 7, and 10 after ischemia-reperfusion (I-R) or sham-ischemia (S-I). Kidney MCP-1 mRNA levels were increased on d. I and 3 post-ischemia. Kidney MCP-1 protein levels were increased in the I-R group on d. 1 and 3. MCP-1 expression occurred predominantly in the distal tubule segments by immunohistology. There was an increase in monocytes/macrophages infiltration in the I-R group, compared to the S-I or controls by d. 1. Urinary MCP-1 excretion increased 3-fold in the I-R group, and remained elevated above the S-I group and baseline levels, on d. 3 through d. 8. Kidney MCP-1 mRNA levels, protein levels and urinary MCP-1 excretion rates are increased by ischemia-reperfusion injury. The areas of increase in MCP-1 chemoattractant expression correlates with an increase in monocyte infiltration in the kidney. Although its pathophysiologic role remains to be determined, MCP-1 may participate in, and be a biomarker for, the mononuclear inflammatory processes that occur after ischemia-induced acute renal failure.
The diagnosis of ventilator-associated pneumonia: a comparison of histologic, microbiologic, and clinical criteria.

Study objective To evaluate histologic, microbiological, and clinical criteria in the recognition of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in patients who died while mechanically ventilated. Methods The study group consisted of 39 patients who died after a mean of 14 days of mechanical ventilation. Postmortem fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FOB) and open lung biopsy were performed with collection of specimens initiated 3 in the 48 h prior to death, presence of a bacterial or fungal pathogen on the last sputum culture, radiographic worsening in the week prior to death, and worsening gas exchange defined as a 15% decrease in the PaO 2 /fraction of inspired oxygen ratio in the 72 h prior to death. Results None of the quantitative cultures had a reliable positive predictive value for histologic pneumonia. None of the five clinical criteria tested showed agreement with the presence or absence of histologic pneumonia. There was a significant correlation between qualitative and quantitative microbiological results from the distal airway/FOB-guided PSB, distal airway/BALF, and quantitative culture of the lung parenchyma. Also, suction catheter aspirate of the trachea had a sensitivity of 87% in recognizing the bacterial species simultaneously present in lung parenchyma. None of the patients with histologic pneumonia had Conclusions Neither the bacterial density from the four airway quantitative cultures, nor the bacterial density from quantitative culture of lung parenchyma accurately separated the histologic pneumonia and nonpneumonia groups. No clinical criteria or combination of clinical criteria correlated with the presence or absence of histologic pneumonia. A BALF with
Precursor Conversion Kinetics and the Nucleation of Cadmium Selenide Nanocrystals

The kinetics of cadmium selenide (CdSe) nanocrystal formation was studied using UV−visible absorption spectroscopy integrated with an automated, high-throughput synthesis platform. Reaction of anhydrous cadmium octadecylphosphonate (Cd-ODPA) with alkylphosphine selenides (1, tri-n-octylphosphine selenide; 2, di-n-butylphenylphosphine selenide; 3, n-butyldiphenylphosphine selenide) in recrystallized tri-n-octylphosphine oxide was monitored by following the absorbance of CdSe at λ = 350 nm, where the extinction coefficient is independent of size, and the disappearance of the selenium precursor using {1H}31P NMR spectroscopy. Our results indicate that precursor conversion limits the rate of nanocrystal nucleation and growth. The initial precursor conversion rate (Qo) depends linearly on [1] (Qo(1) = 3.0−36 μM/s) and decreases as the number of aryl groups bound to phosphorus increases (1 > 2 > 3). Changes to Qo influence the final number of nanocrystals and thus control particle size. Using similar methods, w...
Immobilization of Cobalt by Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria in Subsurface Sediments

We investigated the impact of sulfate-reduction on immobilization of metals in subsurface aquifers. Co 2+ was used as a model for heavy metals. Factors limiting sulfate-reduction dependent Co 2+ immobilization were tested on pure cultures of sulfate-reducing bacteria, and in sediment columns from a landfill leachate contaminated aquifer. In the presence of 1 mM Co 2+ , the growth of pure cultures of sulfate-reducing bacteria was not impacted. Cultures of Desulfovibrio desulfuricans, Desulfotomaculum gibsoniae , and Desulfomicrobium hypogeia removed greater than 99.99% of the soluble Co 2+ when CoCl 2 was used with no chelators. The above cultures and Desulfoarcula baarsi removed 98-99.94% of the soluble Co(II) when the metal was complexed with the model ligand nitrilotriacetate (Co-NTA). Factors controlling the rate of sulfate-reduction based Co 2+ precipitation were investigated in sediment-cobalt mixtures. Several electron donors were tested and all but toluene accelerated soluble Co 2+ loss. Ethanol an...
Endothelial cells co-cultured with wild-type and dominant/negative p53-transfected glioblastoma cells exhibit differential sensitivity to radiation-induced apoptosis.

We performed expressional profiling of isogenic glioblastoma cell lines U87-Lux8 and U87-175.4. These cell lines differ in that U87-Lux8 expresses wild-type p53 and U87-175.4 expresses a dominant-negative p53 (175His mutation). DNA array analysis and real-time PCR measurements demonstrated that basal expression and response to irradiation were different in these isogenic glioblastoma cell lines. These differences included genes involved in growth regulation and genes associated with cell-to-cell and cell/ECM communications. Co-cultivation of U87-175.4 and U87-Lux8 with HUVE cells demonstrated that U87-175.4 cells suppress the angiogenic phenotype of HUVEC and increase their sensitivity to radiation-induced apoptosis compared to co-culture of U87-Lux8/HUVEC. These data suggest that blockade of p53 function may alter the communication between tumor cells and endothelial cells such that endothelial cells exhibit an increase in radiosensitivity. These findings may have important implications for the treatment of glioblastoma tumors and other human cancers. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Condensation and compression of argon monolayers on graphite

Abstract Adsorption isotherms for Ar on the basal plane of a graphite single crystal have been determined by LEED geometry and intensity measurements. The pressure of monolayer condensation for 43 T T > 52K. The two-dimensional solid compressibility obtained from an adsorption isotherm near 42 K agrees reasonably well with a simple calculation using empirical ArAr potentials. Calculation of the Debye temperature from the experimental compressibility gives results close to those obtained from low-temperature heat-capacity data for the same coverage.
Innovations in the systemic therapy of prostate cancer.

Important innovations have been achieved in the development of novel systemic hormonal therapies for the salvage treatment of metastatic castrate-resistant disease. The use of chemotherapy as an adjunct for the treatment of castrate-resistant metastatic disease and local advanced tumors has also resulted in patterns of late toxic effects. The authors review the important advances in the evolution of systemic therapy for the treatment of prostate cancer. Systemic therapy has become an increasingly important component of treatment of advanced prostate cancer. In the past decade, important innovations have been achieved in the development of novel systemic hormonal therapies for the salvage treatment of metastatic castrate-resistant disease. These improvements have been accompanied by the broadening of potential indications for chemotherapy in castrate-resistant metastatic disease and the use of chemotherapy as an adjunct to the treatment of locally extensive tumors. These changes have begun to lead to improved outcomes, but at the expense of novel patterns of late toxic effects. We review the key steps in the recent evolution of systemic therapy of prostate cancer.
Two-color resonance enhanced multiphoton ionization of Van der Waals molecules: studies of spectroscopy shifts and ionization thresholds of paraxylene clustered with argon

Abstract Van der Waals molecules comprised of paraxylene (PX) clustered with Ar atoms were formed in pulsed supersonic jet, subjected to two-color resonance enhanced two-photon ionization (2C R2PI), and analyzed in a time-of-flight mass spectrometer. Perturbed S1 states of the complexes display spectral shifts relative to the nascent molecule (PX). The appearance potentials (AP) of PX·Arn clusters were measured for n = 1 to 6. On average, the AP is red-shifted ≈ 120 cm−1 per Ar atom addition, but there are deviations from a smooth trend at the dimer and pentamer.
The Effective Electromechanical Moduli of Domain Engineered Ferroelectric Crystals

We present a micromechanical analysis to explain the enhanced electromechanical coupling of domain engineered ferroelectric single crystals. The theory starts with energy-minimization approach, where the energy minimizing domain configurations are characterized as the convex hull of the ferroelectric energy wells, and are constructed by multi-rank laminations. The electromechanical moduli of ferroelectric single crystal with engineered domain configuration can then be determined by the homogenization theory. Using this approach, we analyzed the engineered domain configuration in tetragonal single crystal BaTiO3 poled in direction, where d33 70% higher than those poled in direction has been demonstrated, consistent with experimental observation. It is also found that the two-variant domain configurations have higher enhancement than three-variant systems, suggesting an optimal domain configuration for the enhanced piezoelectric properties. The theory reveals the fundamental property enhancement mechanism in ferroelectric single crystals with engineered domain configuration, and offers insight on the design and optimization of ferroelectric single crystals with superior functional properties.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Interpreting Clinically Derived WISC-R Subtest Groupings: A Statistical Approach

In recent years, psychologists have proposed a variety of Wechsler scale subtest recategorizations to aid practitioners in their approach to cognitive profile analysis. For the most part, subtest regroupings on the Wechsler scales have been clinically derived, with the exception of the three WISC-R factors scores. The present paper introduces information that clinicians may use to calculate standardized deviation quotients and standard errors of measurement for selected subtest groupings. In addition, data for determining significant discrepances between pairs of subtest combinations are introduced. The material presented should lead to a more statistically accurate interpretation of WISC-R profiles than more clinically oriented methods.
Relations Among Milk and Non-Milk Beverage Consumption, Calcium, and Relative Weight in High-Weight Status Children

Relations among weight, calcium, and milk have received considerable attention, but inconsistencies remain regarding strength and direction of associations. Calcium, milk, other beverages, and weight status associations were examined among children >75th BMI percentile from three studies. Results indicated negative relations between z-BMI and non-whole milk and calcium in one sample, with lower z-BMI and percent body fat among older children drinking any non-whole milk. In one older child sample, z-BMI and percent body fat were higher for whole milk consumers. The only significant relation observed for other beverages was the negative association between juice and percent body fat in younger children. Milk, calcium, and child weight status associations are inconsistent, and appear dependent on milk type and child age.
We got the building … now what?

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe the process by which a library task force investigated and recommended services, best practices and technology prior to moving into a vastly larger and more modern building than its previous facility.Design/methodology/approach – A 12‐member team was appointed to study a wide range of practices and services in libraries and other public institutions with similar missions and to issue a report on its findings and recommendations. The team included faculty, staff and students with backgrounds including public service, technology, human resources and space design.Findings – The make‐up of the team, as well as the methods of study, provided for a wide range of possible recommendations and had a significant impact on the final report. A link to the full report is provided (wiki).Research limitations/implications – Other libraries, whether planning a new building or new services, may utilize a similar team research method to develop an action plan.Originality/v...
On the saturation amplitude for unstable baroclinic waves

The equilibrium amplitude to which small unstable perturbations of a two-layer baro-clinic current grow is determined by analytical theory. The range of validity and accuracy of this theory is investigated by comparing the theoretical predictions with more accurate numerical solutions and with laboratory experiments. Reasonably good results are obtained for fairly large values of the “small parameter” ? = ( F – F c )/ F c , where F is the internal Foude number, equal to . The theoretical solution is only applicable for parameters for which the final wave state is steady. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1974.tb01620.x
Inhibitor κB-α haplotype GTC is associated with susceptibility to acute respiratory distress syndrome in Caucasians*

OBJECTIVE The nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB regulates inflammatory responses and plays important roles in the pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Inhibitor kappaB-alpha (NFKBIA) inhibits NF-kappaB and controls its activities. The objective was to determine whether polymorphisms in NFKBIA gene would be associated with ARDS development. DESIGN Prospective cohort of adults with clinical risk factors for ARDS. SETTING Hospital system. PATIENTS Patients were 1,210 critically ill Caucasian patients meeting study criteria for a defined risk factor for ARDS who were enrolled and prospectively followed for 60 days; 382 had ARDS, and 828 were controls. INTERVENTIONS Genetic polymorphisms in the NFKBIA promoter (-881A/G, -826C/T, -297C/T) were determined using TaqMan techniques. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS The three polymorphisms were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. No individual genotype was significantly associated with ARDS development. In contrast, haplotypes of NFKBIA were globally associated with ARDS development (p = .02, degree of freedom = 2). The frequency of haplotype GTC (-881G/-826T/-297C) was significantly higher among ARDS patients (7.4%) than that among controls (5.2%) (p = .03). Crude analysis showed that the haplotype GTC was significantly associated with higher risks of ARDS in the whole cohort compared with the common haplotype ACC (-881A/-826C/-297C) (odds ratio [OR], 1.47; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03-2.09; p = .03), especially among male subjects (OR, 1.90; 95% CI, 1.20-2.97; p < .01). After adjustment for covariates, the haplotype GTC remained significantly associated with increased risk of ARDS in the whole cohort (OR, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.09-2.53; p = .02), particularly among male patients (OR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.16-3.40; p = .02) and among subjects with direct pulmonary injury (OR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.04-2.95; p = .04). CONCLUSIONS The haplotype GTC of NFKBIA gene is associated with higher risk of ARDS in Caucasians, particularly in male patients and in patients with direct lung injury.
Estrogen partially down-regulates PTEN to prevent apoptosis in VSC4.1 motoneurons following exposure to IFN-γ

Abstract PTEN is a tumor suppressor gene that is either mutated or deleted in a number of human cancers. PTEN acts as a negative regulator of the PI3K/Akt survival pathway and thus plays an important role in cell fate, proliferation, growth, and migration. Recent evidence suggests that PTEN may also be involved in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders such as spinal cord injury (SCI). Overexpression of PTEN appears to cause inactivation/dephosphorylation of Akt in neurons, resulting in increased cell death. Given this newly discovered role for PTEN, it has been identified as a potential molecular target for the development of novel therapeutic strategies against neurodegeneration. Motoneuron degeneration following SCI may occur due to up-regulation of pro-inflammatory and cytotoxic cytokines including IFN-γ. Exposure of VSC4.1 motoneurons to IFN-γ (10 ng/ml) for 24 h resulted in significant overexpression of PTEN and decreased levels of activated Akt. Up-regulation of PTEN following IFN-γ exposure was associated with decreased overall cell viability due to increased apoptosis, as assessed by Wright staining and analysis of cell death markers including Bax, Bcl-2, calpain activity, and caspase-3 activity, indicating a prominent role for PTEN in suppression of the PI3K/Akt survival pathway to promote motoneuron death. Addition of estrogen (100 nM) to VSC4.1 cells for 1 h prior to IFN-γ exposure partially decreased PTEN expression, allowing adequate activation or phosphorylation of Akt (p-Akt) to prevent apoptotic cell death. Thus, it appears that estrogen may mediate neuroprotection through decrease in PTEN expression. In conclusion, our studies suggest that PTEN inactivation may be used as an important parameter for evaluation of the efficacy of estrogen in prevention of neuronal loss in neurodegenerative disorders.
Inhomogeneous electron gas at nonzero temperatures: Exchange effects

The exchange energy, exchange potential, and the exchange contribution to the interaction function are evaluated for all nonzero temperatures. These results are the finite temperature versions of the ${\ensuremath{\rho}}^{\frac{1}{3}}$-theory of Kohn-Sham. The applications of the results reported here are indicated. The paramagnetic susceptibility of an interacting electron gas as a function of temperature exhibits an interesting peak structure.
A three dimensional model for time-varying wideband MIMO mobile-to-mobile channels

A three-dimensional (3-D) geometrical propagation model for wideband multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) mobile-to-mobile (M-to-M) communications is proposed. Based on the geometrical model, a 3-D reference model for wideband MIMO M-to-M multipath fading channels is proposed. From the reference model, a space-time-frequency correlation function is derived for a 3-D non-isotropic scattering environment. Finally, it is shown that the time dispersion and the frequency dispersion of a wide sense stationary uncorrelated scattering (WSSUS) channel can not be treated independently, contrary to common practice.
Some remarks on reported inconsistencies in the high-field EPR spectrum of DPPH

Previous conflicting reports concerning the EPR lineshape of commercially obtained 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) at frequencies above 200 GHz are investigated. The magnetic parameters of dilute DPPH in polystyrene film determined at 220 GHz are presented. It is demonstrated that commercially obtained crystalline samples of DPPH which produce a broad line at 220 GHz when used without purification do produce a narrow line at 220 GHz when recrystallized from carbon disulfide. This observation suggests that the reported discrepancies in the high-field EPR spectrum of DPPH may be reconciled without invoking chemical impurities or misidentification. It also suggests a standard preparation procedure for DPPH that should be employed ifDPPH is to be used as a marker for high-field EPR.
BENDING FATIGUE OF CABLE STAYS

Large amplitude stay-cable vibrations have been observed numerous times in the past few years in two long-span cable-stayed bridges in Texas: the Veterans Memorial Bridge near Port Arthur and the Fred Hartman Bridge near Baytown. In most cases, these vibrations have occurred in combination with light rain and relatively low winds. The rainwater forms rivulets on the cable that change the aerodynamic cross section of the smooth cable stays. This paper describes the field measurements, analytical models of vibration, fatigue tests carried out in Japan, and the development of planned laboratory fatigue tests that will be carried out at Ferguson Laboratory during 2001. The full-size cable fatigue tests will assess the relationship between the amplitude of cable vibration and fatigue damage. A future paper will relate these experimental results to the stays of the Veterans Memorial and Fred Hartman bridges in order to provide an estimate of the fatigue damage that may develop in their stays.
Validation and data splitting in predictive regression modeling of honing surface roughness data

Model validation is critical in predicting the performance of manufacturing processes. In predictive regression, proper selection of variables helps minimize the model mismatch error, proper selection of models helps reduce the model estimation error, and proper validation of models helps minimize the model prediction error. In this paper, the literature is briefly reviewed and a rigorous procedure is proposed for evaluating the validation and data splitting methods in predictive regression modeling. Experimental data from a honing surface roughness study will be used to illustrate the methodology. In particular, the individual versus average data splitting methods as well as the fivefold versus threefold cross-validation methods are compared. This paper shows that statistical tests and prediction errors evaluation are important in subset selection and cross-validation of predictive regression models. No statistical differences were found between the fivefold and the threefold cross-validation methods, an...
Effect of HCl on transmembrane potentials and intracellular pH in rabbit esophageal epithelium

Abstract Background/Aims: Acidification of the basolateral membrane by adding HCl to the serosal solution of esophageal epithelium leads to more necrosis than acidification of the apical membrane by adding HCl to the luminal solution. The aim of this study was to examine the mechanism for this difference. Methods: The effect of low extracellular pH (pHo) (HCl) on intracellular pH (pHi) and transmembrane potentials was examined in rabbit esophageal cells by impalement with intracellular microelectrodes. Results: Lowering luminal pH to 3.0 had no effect on membrane voltage and/or pHi in either luminally or serosally impaled cells, although a decline in both parameters occurred at pH 1.5 in luminally impaled cells. In contrast, lowering serosal pH from 7.4 to 3.0 progressively reduced membrane voltage and/or pHi. Membrane depolarization at low pHo was inhibited by a high-potassium solution or barium and mimicked by lowering pHi (gassing with CO2) at neutral pHo. Conclusions: Basolateral, but not apical, membranes of esophageal epithelial cells are highly permeable to H+, accounting for the greater susceptibility to damage from exposure to serosal than luminal acid. Membrane depolarization at low pHo is mediated by low pHi through inhibition of basolateral membrane K+ conductance.
Mixed-Tool Performance Analysis on Hybrid Multicore Architectures

This paper proposes a triangular solve algorithm with variable block size for graphics processing unit (GPU). By using diagonal blocks inversion with recursion, this algorithm works with tunable block size to achieve the best performance. Various methods are shown on how to make use of existing profiling tools to successfully measure and analyze performance of this algorithm. We use some of the most popular CPU and GPU profiling tools for their advantages and overcome their disadvantages with several new techniques to analyze the performance and relationship of different components of applications. With the presented methodologies, insight information is produced which helps to understand and tune the proposed algorithm and considerably improve the performance of the solver itself as well as the application using it.
A3-1: Outcomes of a Randomized Trial of Home Blood Pressure Telemonitoring with Pharmacist Case Management.

Background/Aims Patients with high blood pressure (BP) visit a physician on average 4 times per year though fewer than half achieve BP control. Practical, effective, and sustainable models are needed to improve BP management. Hyperlink is a clinic-randomized trial testing an intervention that combines home BP telemonitoring with pharmacist case management in patients with uncontrolled hypertension.
Cardiocerebral resuscitation: a better approach to cardiac arrest.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To present a new approach to patients with cardiac arrest that improves neurologically normal survival. It is called cardiocerebral resuscitation (CCR), rather than cardiopulmonary resuscitation, as the major goal in cardiac arrest is to resuscitate the heart and the brain. CCR has three components: continuous chest compressions cardiopulmonary resuscitation for bystanders; a different Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) algorithm for Emergency Medical System; and a recently added aggressive postresuscitation care for resuscitated but comatose patients that includes therapeutic hypothermia and early catheterization/intervention. RECENT FINDINGS: Kellum et al. instituted the first two components of CCR in rural Wisconsin in 2004. In the subgroup of patients with a witnessed cardiac arrest and a shockable rhythm they found that neurological intact survival at hospital discharge was 15% the preceding 3 years, when the 2000 Guidelines were being followed, but 40% for the 3 years during CCR. Bobrow et al. instituted CCR for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in metropolitan areas of Arizona and found a greater than 300% improvement (4.7-17.6%) in survival to hospital discharge of this subgroup of patients. SUMMARY: CCR improves survival of patients with cardiac arrest.
Independence of Organogenesis and Cell Pattern in Developing Angle Shoots of Selaginella martensii

Angle meristems are mounds of meristematic tissue located at dorsal and/or ventral branch points of the dichotomising stem axes of many species of Selaginella (Lycophyta). The present study examined the development of ventral angle shoots of S. martensii in response to removal of distal shoot apices (decapitation). Scanning electron microscopy of sequential replicas of developing angle meristems and angle shoots revealed that for the first two pseudowhorls of leaf primordia, particular leaves are not attributable to particular merophytes of the angle meristem apical cell. Individual leaf primordia of the first (outer) pseudowhorl often form from more than one merophyte. Neither the shape of the angle meristem apical cell nor the direction of segmentation has any effect on the development of the angle shoot. Additionally, the apical cell of the angle meristem does not necessarily contribute directly to either of the new shoot apices of the developing angle shoot. The first bifurcation of the angle shoot shows a remarkably consistent relationship to the branching pattern of the parent shoot. The strong branch of the first angle shoot bifurcation typically occurs toward the weak side branch of the parent shoot. Anatomical studies showed that bifurcation of the young angle shoot involved the formation of two new growth centres some distance away from the original angle meristem apical cell; new apical cells subsequently formed within these. These results provide additional support for the view that cell lineage has little or no effect on final form or structure in plants.
Mapping of the chromosome 17 BMD QTL in the F2 male mice of MRL/MpJ × SJL/J

Developing treatment strategies for osteoporosis would be facilitated by identifying genes regulating bone mineral density (BMD). One way to do so is through quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping. However, there are sex differences in terms of the presence/absence and locations of BMD QTLs. In a previous study, our group identified a BMD QTL on chromosome 17 in the F(2) female mice of the MRL/MpJ x SJL/J cross. Here, we determined whether it was also present in the male mice of the same cross. Furthermore, we also intended to reduce the QTL region by increasing marker density. Interval mapping showed that the same QTL based on chromosomal positions was present in the male mice, with logarithmic odds (LOD) scores of 4.0 for femur BMD and 5.2 for total body BMD. Although there was a body weight QTL at the same location, the BMD QTL was not affected by the adjustment for body weight. Mapping with increased marker density indicated a most likely region of 35-55 Mb for this QTL. There were also co-localized QTLs for femur length, femur periosteal circumference (PC) and total body bone area, suggesting possibility of pleiotropy. Runx2 and VEGFA are strong candidate genes located within this QTL region.
A second case of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome due to human immunodeficiency virus type 2 in the United States: the clinical implications.

H uman immunodeficiency virus type 2 (HIV-Z) has been associated with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) [l-4] among West Africans and Europeans. The first documentation of an HIV-2 infection in the United States (U.S.) was in an AIDS patient who had emigrated from West Africa after the onset of her illness [5]. A second case of AIDS due to HIV-2 infection in a resident of the U.S. originally from West Africa is described in this report. In contrast to the previously reported U.S. case, this patient had lived in the U.S. for nine years before becoming ill with an AIDS-defining condition. The major implications of this case for clinicians in countries with a low prevalence of HIV-2 infection are discussed.
Representation of Soil Moisture Feedbacks during Drought in NASA Unified WRF (NU-WRF)

AbstractPositive soil moisture–precipitation feedbacks can intensify heat and prolong drought under conditions of precipitation deficit. Adequate representation of these processes in regional climate models is, therefore, important for extended weather forecasts, seasonal drought analysis, and downscaled climate change projections. This paper presents the first application of the NASA Unified Weather Research and Forecasting Model (NU-WRF) to simulation of seasonal drought. Simulations of the 2006 southern Great Plains drought performed with and without soil moisture memory indicate that local soil moisture feedbacks had the potential to concentrate precipitation in wet areas relative to dry areas in summer drought months. Introduction of a simple dynamic surface albedo scheme that models albedo as a function of soil moisture intensified the simulated feedback pattern at local scale—dry, brighter areas received even less precipitation while wet, whereas darker areas received more—but did not significantly...
USING RANDOM RATHER THAN FIXED EFFECTS MODELS IN META‐ANALYSIS: IMPLICATIONS FOR SITUATIONAL SPECIFICITY AND VALIDITY GENERALIZATION

Combining statistical information across studies (i.e., meta-analysis) is a standard research tool in applied psychology. The most common meta-analytic approach in applied psychology, the fixed effects approach, assumes that individual studies are homogeneous and are sampled from the same population. This model assumes that sampling error alone explains the majority of observed differences in study effect sizes and its use has lead some to challenge the notion of situational specificity in favor of validity generalization. We critique the fixed effects methodology and propose an advancement–the random effects model (RE) which provides estimates of how between-study differences influence the relationships under study. RE models assume that studies are heterogeneous since they are often conducted by different investigators under different settings. Parameter estimates of both models are compared and evidence in favor of the random effects approach is presented. We argue against use of the fixed effects model because it may lead to misleading conclusions about situational specificity.
Effects of Pregnancy on Insulin and Glucagon Secretion by Perifused Rat Pancreatic Islets

Pancreatic islet insulin and glucagon secretion was studied in 18–20 day pregnant rats (P) and age-matched virgin female animals (C). Pancreata were removed after overnight fasts. One hundred islets from P and C groups were isolated by a collagenase method, placed in two chambers, and perifused simultaneously at 37 C with buffered albumin at 0.9 ml/min. A 30-min basal period preceded a 50-min continuous substrate challenge. Glucose (16.7 HIM) elicited an acute and second phase insulin secretion from P islets that significantly exceeded C values. Glucagon secretion was abruptly suppressed in both groups and was significantly lower in P islets at the 40-min interval. A 6 mM mixture of 20 amino acids (AA) stimulated biphasic insulin and glucagon secretion in both groups but differences were not significant. AA + 5.5 mM glucose stimuli resulted in higher insulin and lower glucagon secretion in P islets during the second phase. AA + 16.7 mM glucose suppressed acute phase glucagon release significantly below th...