cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Layer-Resolved Graphene Transfer via Engineered Strain Layers

The performance of optimized graphene devices is ultimately determined by the quality of the graphene itself. Graphene grown on copper foils is often wrinkled, and the orientation of the graphene cannot be controlled. Graphene grown on SiC(0001) via the decomposition of the surface has a single orientation, but its thickness cannot be easily limited to one layer. We describe a method in which a graphene film of one or two monolayers grown on SiC is exfoliated via the stress induced with a Ni film and transferred to another substrate. The excess graphene is selectively removed with a second exfoliation process with a Au film, resulting in a monolayer graphene film that is continuous and single-oriented.
The structure of the temperature minimum region in solar flares and its significance for flare heating mechanisms

The paper analyzes Ca II K-line profiles of one flare and EUV continuum observations of two other flares in an effort to obtain values for temperature enhancements over active region values produced in the upper photosphere around and above the temperature minimum region. Results show that the flare temperature minimum is depressed some two scale heights below its preflare level and that substantial temperature enhancements are produced even at this depth. Consideration is also given to possible heating mechanisms which might be responsible for the observed enhancements, including (1) heating by EUV radiation, (2) heating by proton beams with low dispersion energy spectra centered at 10-20 MeV, and (3) localized heating at temperature minimum levels.
Cancer of the esophagus and gastro-esophageal junction: potentially curative therapies

Abstract The definition of potential curative tumors of the esophagus and gastro-esophageal junction remains problematic. This is due to a lack of accuracy in clinical staging despite recent advances in CT, endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS), positron emission tomography scan and minimally invasive staging modalities. As a result much controversy persists regarding indications for surgery and extent of resection and lymphadenectomy. Today surgery with curative option results in five-year survival of over 30%. Multimodality regimens, especially neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, seem to be beneficial in patients with a complete response on pathologic staging. Other indications are investigational and should be studied within carefully monitored study protocols. In early carcinoma T is – T 1a endoluminal ablation technique seem to open promising perspectives provided of discrimination between T is – T 1a and T 1b can be made by the use of 20mhz EUS probes.
Human placental adenosine receptor expression is elevated in preeclampsia and hypoxia increases expression of the A2A receptor.

Abstract Placental hypoxia as a result of impaired trophoblast invasion is suggested to be involved in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia. Hypoxia is a potent stimulus for the release of adenosine, and the actions of adenosine are mediated through four adenosine receptors, A1, A2A, A2B and A3. We investigated the presence, distribution and expression of adenosine receptor subtypes in the human placenta, the expression of the adenosine receptors in placentas from pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia, small for gestational age (SGA) infants and uncomplicated pregnancies, and the effect of hypoxia on placental adenosine receptor expression. Immunofluorescent microscopy localized A1, A2A, A2B and A3 adenosine receptors to the syncytiotrophoblast, endothelial cells and myofibroblasts within the human placenta. Adenosine receptor protein and message expression levels were significantly higher in placentas from preeclamptic pregnancies with or without SGA infants, but not different in pregnancies with SGA infants alone. In vitro exposure of placental villous explants to hypoxia (2% oxygen) increased the expression of A2A adenosine receptor 50%. These data indicate that all four known adenosine receptors are expressed in the human placenta and adenosine receptor expression is significantly higher in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that differences in placental adenosine receptors may contribute to alterations in placental function in preeclampsia.
Pulmonary arterial distensibility - 2D phase contrast vs 2D bSSFP

Summary Main pulmonary artery distensibility is a strong predictor of mortality in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. This study shows that either 2D PC or 2D bSSFP can be used to reliably non-invasively assess it by measuring MPA relative area change. Background The pulmonary circulation is a highly compliant system that generates little resistance to blood flow. However, in the presence of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), blood pressure and vascular resistance in the pulmonary circulation are elevated. This leads to distension and stiffening of the main pulmonary artery (MPA) and vessel wall remodeling, which in itself may influence stiffness [1]. Proximal arterial distensibility is a parameter that depends mainly on the anatomy (geometry) of the vessel and can be estimated noninvasively with cross-sectional imaging techniques. In particular, the relative area change (RAC) of the MPA, which is inversely proportional to arterial stiffness, is a strong predictor of mortality in patients with PAH [2]. The purpose of this study was to compare two non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) methods for quantification of MPA distensibility using an acute PAH dog model. Methods Six adult female beagles were anesthetized with isoflurane. MRI was performed prior to and following injection of micro-beads into the right atrium and ventricle to induce PAH, resulting 12 comparison studies. The presence of PAH was confirmed by right heart catheterization (RHC). All MR images were acquired on a 3T scanner (MR750, GE Healthcare, Waukesha, WI). Double-oblique images perpendicular to the direction of the flow in the MPA were obtained using ECG-triggered 2D CINE balanced steady-state free precession (bSSFP) and through-plane velocity-encoded 2D phase contrast (PC) at the same level [3]. PC and bSSFP images were segmented using dedicated cardiovascular analysis software (CV-Flow and and MASS-Analysis, respectively, Medis, Leiden, NL). Maximum and minimum MPA areas (Amax and Amin, respectively) were used to calculate RAC = (Amax-Amin)/Amax. Bland-Altman analysis was used to study the differences between PC and bSSFP to calculate Amax ,A min, and RAC. Student t-test was used to evaluate statistical significance of the differences between techniques in all three paramenters. Results The mean values for RAC, Amax and Amin were 36.38 ±7.86%, 241.98±71.62cm 2 , and 157.06±58.51cm 2 for PC, respectively and 31.14±6.95%, 220.88±62.76cm 2 ,a nd 155.34±58.38cm 2 for bSSFP, respectively (p=0.10, 0.45, and 0.94, respectively). The mean differences for RAC, Amax and Amin were -5.23±8.44%, -21.10±40.67cm 2 , -1.72±40.89cm 2 , respectively. Conclusions No statistically significant difference is present between PC and bSSFP for measuring RAC, Amax or Amin .T he differences between the two methods for measuring these parameters are small suggesting that either technique (PC or bSSFP) can be used to reliably non-invasively measure MPA distensibility. A benefit of using PC for measuring RAC is that it can also be used to quantify blood flow. Funding
In situ kinetics of layer-by-layer assembled nonlinear-optical-active amphiphiles from dynamic surface force measurements.

We report the synthesis and layer-by-layer (LBL) deposition of a class of azo-benzene surfactants with the polycation poly(ethylenimine) (PEI). The different surfactants of the type X-azo-(CH2)10-SO3-, where X = −NO2, −CN, and −COCH3 in the azo-benzene moiety, have decreasing electron-withdrawing strengths. We use dynamic surface force measurements to study the in situ kinetics of adsorption of the amphiphiles onto PEI. Ex situ kinetics data obtained by adsorption-paused UV−visible spectroscopy validate the surface force results. These measurements describe the first application of dynamic force measurements to follow adsorption in LBL systems. UV−visible spectroscopy, second harmonic generation (SHG), and single-wavelength ellipsometry were also used to characterize the films. The observed blue shift upon adsorption of the amphiphiles suggests H-type aggregation within the multilayer. Two of the surfactants studied within the LBL films follow Langmuir adsorption behavior with equilibrium adsorption times...
The EGF Receptor System as a Target for Antitumor Therapy

Monoclonal anti-EGF receptor antibodies, EGF receptor antibodies coupled to toxins, TGF alpha-toxin conjugates and tyrosine kinase inhibitors show great potential as antitumor agents. These compounds are effective inhibitors of the EGF receptor system as it functions in the mitogenic stimulation of malignant cells. The effectiveness of cell growth inhibition mediated by anti-EGF receptor antibody and tyrosine kinase inhibitors may prove to be limited and selective. This is in view of the possibility that malignant cell proliferation may be controlled by various mechanisms instead of that which involves the EGF receptor system, despite the expression of both EGF receptor and TGF alpha in the same cell. Other growth control mechanisms could involve hormone receptor systems such as estradiol and the estrogen receptor, oncogene activation or other growth factor-receptor systems. In those malignancies in which growth control resides in the EGF-receptor system, antitumor therapy using monoclonal anti-EGF receptor antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors is a possibility worth pursuing. The effectiveness of immunotoxins and TGF alpha-toxin conjugates may only require the presence of EGF receptor and not be limited to those cells whose growth is controlled exclusively by the EGF receptor system. Nonspecific toxicity may, however, limit the use of these compounds. Further studies assessing the extent of such a toxicity are in order. In the face of the preceding reservations, however, one must not overlook the potential for great achievement as this novel therapeutic avenue is traversed.
Relationships of Fear, Anxiety, and Depression With Physical Function in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis

Abstract Scopaz KA, Piva SR, Wisniewski S, Fitzgerald GK. Relationships of fear, anxiety, and depression with physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Objectives To explore whether the psychologic variables anxiety, depression, and fear-avoidance beliefs, and interactions between these variables, are associated with physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). We hypothesized lower levels of function would be related to higher anxiety, higher depression, and higher fear-avoidance beliefs, and that high levels of 2 of these factors simultaneously might interact to have a greater adverse effect on physical function. Design Cross-sectional, correlational design. Setting Institutional practice. Participants Subjects included patients with knee OA (N=182; age, mean ± SD, 63.9±8.8y; 122 women). Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Self-report measures of function included the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) Osteoarthritis Index, the Lower Extremity Function Scale (LEFS), and the Knee Outcome Survey-Activity of Daily Living Scale. The Get Up and Go test was used as a physical performance measure of function. Self-report measures for psychologic variables included the Beck Anxiety Inventory, the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, and the Fear Avoidance Belief Questionnaire-Physical Activity Scale modified for the knee. Results Higher anxiety was related to poorer function on the WOMAC physical function. Both high anxiety and fear-avoidance beliefs were related to poorer function on the LEFS and Knee Outcome Survey-Activity of Daily Living Scale. There was no association between the psychologic variables and the Get Up and Go test. The anxiety × depression interaction was associated with the LEFS. Conclusions Anxiety and fear-avoidance beliefs are associated with self-report measures of function in patients with knee OA. Depression may influence scores on the LEFS under conditions of low anxiety.
Comparing Satellite and Surface Observations of Cloud Patterns in Synoptic-Scale Circulation Systems

Abstract The propagation characteristics and spatial distributions of cloud cover associated with synoptic-scale circulation systems are studied using both satellite data processed by the International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project (ISCCP) and surface observations taken at weather stations or ships of opportunity. These two independent datasets produce comparable climatological patterns of the preferred direction and speed of the cloud movements. Such “propagation vectors” based on the ISCCP products depict cloud motions at a higher altitude than that of the corresponding movements deduced from surface synoptic reports. By application of a similar composite procedure to the ISCCP and surface datasets, a detailed comparison is made between the satellite and surface observations of the organization of various cloud types in midlatitude cyclones. The relationships of these cloud patterns with the concurrent atmospheric circulation are illustrated by superposing the composites of wind and geopotential h...
The transmission of sonic boom signals into rooms through open windows.

This paper is the second of two companion papers. In the first paper, expressions for the acoustic field generated inside a room with an open window due to incoming transient or periodic signals have been presented. In this paper, the technique has been applied to the specific example of an N-wave type signal. Detailed mathematical analysis is followed by its approximate version and numerical computation. Results of controlled experiments, using simulated sonic booms, have been compared with theoretical predictions.
Building firm capabilities through learning: the role of the alliance learning process in alliance capability and firm-level alliance success

In recent years, academics and managers have been very interested in understanding how firms develop alliance capability and have greater alliance success. In this paper, we show that an alliance learning process that involves articulation, codification, sharing, and internalization of alliance management know-how is positively related to a firm's overall alliance success. Prior research has found that firms with a dedicated alliance function, which oversees and coordinates a firm's overall alliance activity, have greater alliance success. In this paper we suggest that such an alliance function is also positively related to a firm's alliance learning process, and that process partly mediates the relationship between the alliance function and alliance success observed in prior work. This implies that the alliance learning process acts as one of the main mechanisms through which the alliance function leads to greater alliance success. Our paper extends prior alliance research by taking a first step in opening up the ‘black box’ between the alliance function and a firm's alliance success. We use survey data from a large sample of U.S.-based firms and their alliances to test our theoretical arguments. Although we only examine the alliance learning process and its relationship with firm-level alliance success, we also make an important contribution to research on the knowledge-based view of the firm and dynamic capabilities of firms in general by conceptualizing this learning process and its key aspects, and by empirically validating its impact on performance. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An integrated model of communication influence on beliefs

How do people develop and maintain their beliefs about science? Decades of social science research exist to help us answer this question. The Integrated Model of Communication Influence on Beliefs presented here combines multiple theories that have considered aspects of this process into a comprehensive model to explain how individuals arrive at their scientific beliefs. In this article, we (i) summarize what is known about how science is presented in various news and entertainment media forms; (ii) describe how individuals differ in their choices to be exposed to various forms and sources of communication; (iii) discuss the implications of how individuals mentally process information on the effects of communication; (iv) consider how communication effects can be altered depending on background characteristics and motivations of individuals; and (v) emphasize that the process of belief formation is not unidirectional but rather, feeds back on itself over time. We conclude by applying the Integrated Model of Communication Influence on Beliefs to the complex issue of beliefs about climate change.
Finding a minimum-weightk-link path in graphs with the concave Monge property and applications

LetG be a weighted, complete, directed acyclic graph (DAG) whose edge weights obey the concave Monge condition. We give an efficient algorithm for finding the minimum-weightk-link path between a given pair of vertices for any givenk. The time complexity of our algorithm is $$O(n\sqrt {k\log n} + n\log n)$$ . Our algorithm uses some properties of DAGs with the concave Monge property together with the parametric search technique. We apply our algorithm to get efficient solutions for the following problems, improving on previous results: (1) Finding the largestk-gon contained in a given convex polygon. (2) Finding the smallestk-gon that is the intersection ofk half-planes out ofn half-planes defining a convexn-gon. (3) Computing maximumk-cliques of an interval graph. (4) Computing length-limited Huffman codes. (5) Computing optimal discrete quantization.
Motion generation through biologically-inspired torque pulses

Traditional robot controllers are not designed to produce human-like reactive motion—movements lasting tens of sample periods and requiring large accelerations. One of the major obstacles to producing reactive motions with contemporary controllers is that they rely on kinematic commands. The performance of short duration motions requiring large accelerations is dominated by the motion's dynamics; kinematic commands without an accurate dynamic model of the robot and task will lead to poor performance. Conversely, this paper presents a biologically inspired “torque command” that allows the dynamics of the motion to be communicated to the controller. The commands can be produced with only minor modifications to any existing control scheme that will not impact traditional operation. In addition, sensory input can be mapped directly to presented commands for latency sensitive tasks. The ability of the new commands to express a broad range of motions with a small number of parameters is shown experimentally. The experimental results also show that the presented torque commands can be used to learn a ball intercept task.
Expert form feature modelling shell

Abstract Contemporary geometric modellers are unsuitable for mechanical design because of mismatch in abstraction level. The databases of these modellers cannot be used to drive automated applications such as engineering analysis or process planning because of missing product information. The paper outlines an integrated system for design and applications; the system reasons in terms of form features. Object-oriented programming techniques support user definition of form features (volumetric shapes) that may be positioned and manipulated in a logical manner. A solid modeller interface generates equivalent solid representations in parallel with feature representations. Mechanisms for parameter inheritance and validity checking (cognition) are also discussed. The system is modular, which will allow it to be integrated with tolerance and material modellers that are currently under development. Artificial intelligence techniques have been applied to solid modelling, resulting in this powerful feature technology for creating flexible and integrated CAD systems for the next generation of engineering tools.
The Narrative Organisation of Children's Fantasy Play: the effects of age and play context

Abstract The intention of the study was to examine the extent to which the narrative organisation of children's play varied as a function of age and play context. Same age and same gender dyads from each of two age groups (four‐ and five‐year‐olds) were observed playing in an experimental playroom. On two occasions they played in a high structure, scripted, context (doctor props and dolls) and on two occasions they played in a low structure, non‐scripted, context (blocks and novel shapes). Narrative organisation of play was measured by the children's integration of events into complex fantasy play themes. Predicted age effects were supported to the extent that play scripts became more complex with age. Context effects were minimal; older children's play was more advanced than younger children's in the low structure context. Results were described in terms of children's ability to play independently of props present in their play environments. Further research is recommended on the effects of context on play.
Hemodynamic effects of aerosol propellants I. cardiac depression in the dog

The inhalation of fluorocarbons caused a depression of myocardial contractility, aortic hypotension, a decrease in cardiac output and an increase in pulmonary vascular resistance. The minimal concentrations that elicited these changes are as follows: 1% trichlorofluoromethane (FC11); 2.5% dichlorotetrafluoroethane (FC114); and 10% dichlorodifluoromethane (FC12). Inhalation of 20% octafluorocyclobutane (FC318) and difluoroethane (FC152a) did not influence these hemodynamic parameters. As in previous comparisons, the most widely used aerosol propellants are potentially cardiotoxic in the anesthetized dog.
Target Funding for Substate Transportation Investment Decisions

Minnesota developed the concept of substate area transportation partnerships (ATPs) under the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA). The ATPs are responsible for integrating regional priority projects into a unified State Transportation Improvement Program. The ATPs work within the constraint of a target funding level that estimates federal funding expected to be available to areas within the state. Controversy has developed about the methodology used to develop the target funding formula. In 1995, the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) formed a work team to reevaluate the target funding formula. In developing alternatives, the work team reviewed methodologies proposed by other groups and researched a wide range of possible measures that could be used. The team evaluated the pros and cons of the measures before selecting 13 measures for detailed study. Measures that were considered were grouped into the three categories of system health, system size, and contributions. The team proposed five alternative scenarios, in addition to an update of the existing scenario. The scenarios were presented to MnDOT and its external partners for review and comment. The lessons learned about the process and the measures that were most acceptable for inclusion in the formula for determining target funding are described.
Sense Amplifier Pass Transistor Logic for energy efficient and DPA-resistant AES circuit

In this paper, we show that Sense Amplifier Pass Transistor Logic (SAPTL) is a promising choice for increasing Differential Power Analysis attack (DPA-attack) resistance while maintaining energy efficiency. Furthermore, we present an automatic approach to generate big SAPTL logic blocks (e.g. SBOX) from a synthesized verilog code. We have mounted differential power analysis attacks on the designed circuits and calculated the success rate over different noise conditions. Our results show that SAPTL consumes comparable amount of energy with respect to static CMOS while significantly improving resistance to power side channel attacks.
The Empirics Of Comparative Advantage: Overcoming The Tyranny of Non-Refutability

I assess the empirical evidence on comparative advantage. I argue that the Heckscher-Ohlin-Vanek (H-O-V) relationship is not a refutable general equilibrium proposition. Consequently, the empirical Heckscher-Ohlin literature has been suffering from the tyranny of nonrefutability. The trade governing principle of comparative advantage, the Ricardo-Haberler-Deardorff (R-H-D) theorem, yields a refutable general equilibrium prediction about the pattern of international trade and allows for a theory-based assessment of the magnitude of the gains from trade. The recent experimental evidence on Japan's 19th century opening up to world trade provides a strong case for the hypothesis that comparative advantage governed Japan's international trade in its early trading years. The aggregate gains from that trade are estimated to be no larger than 9 % of Japan's GDP.
Acute behavioral toxicity of sulfolane: influence of hypothermia.

Abstract Sulfolane is a solvent which produces hypothermia and decreased oxygen consumption following acute exposure. In the present experiment, we investigated effects of sulfolane on a behavioral measure of toxicity at ambient temperatures which would either prevent or facilitate the development of hypothermia. Adult male Long-Evans rats (N = 10 dose ) received a single i.p. injection of saline, 200, 400 or 800 mg kg sulfolane. Motor activity in figure-of-eight mazes was assessed 1 h after dosing in testing rooms maintained at either 20.8°C or at 32.3°C. At the warm ambient temperature, sulfolane produced hypoactivity but not hypothermia. At the cooler temperature, sulfolane-induced hypoactivity was more pronounced, and rats were hypothermic. Therefore, a behavioral change could be detected at sublethal dosages of sulfolane in the absence of hypothermia.
Large sample results for varying kernel regression estimates

The varying kernel density estimates are particularly designed for positive random variables. Unlike the commonly used symmetric kernel density estimates, the varying kernel density estimates do not suffer from the boundary problem. This paper establishes asymptotic normality and uniform almost sure convergence results for a varying kernel density estimate when the underlying random variable is positive. Similar results are also obtained for a varying kernel nonparametric estimate of the regression function when the covariate is positive. Pros and cons of the varying kernel regression estimate are also discussed via a simulation study.
Super-resolution and point spread function sensitivity analysis of the expectation-maximization algorithm for computational optical sectioning microscopy

Computational optical sectioning microscopy with a non-confocal microscope is fundamentally limited because the optical transfer function (OTF), the Fourier transform of the point spread function (PSF) is exactly zero over a conic region of the spatial frequency domain. Because of this missing cone of optical information, images are potentially artifactual. To over come this limitation superresolution, in the sense of band extrapolation, is necessary. We present an analysis of how the expectation maximization algorithm for maximum likelihood image estimation achieves this superresolution. We also present experimental results showing this superresolving capability. In practice this capability is often compromised because the PSF has to be truncated to a limited spatial support for algorithm implementation. Therefore we also present an analysis of the sensitivity of superresolution to truncation of the PSF to a finite extent.
3-Methoxy-N-[2-(methylsulfanyl)phenyl]salicylaldimine

The molecule of the title compound, C15H15NO2S, is nearly planar, with a dihedral angle of 6.78 (7)° between the benzene rings. The planarity of the mol­ecule is promoted by an intra­molecular O—H⋯N hydrogen bond.
Extending the use of particle sizing instrumentation to calculate particle shape factors

Abstract Particle shape features influence different dimensional response characteristics in various particle size measuring instruments. Data sets have been cross-correlated from several particle sizing methods to determine particle shape factors for alumina and aluminum powders. Calculating shape factors from particle sizing data has a significant advantage over the more conventional microscopic or image analysis techniques because larger, more representative samples are used for shape/size determinations. Most powders examined showed significant variations in particle shapes between the coarse and fine ends of the size distribution.
Beyond the Strategic Retreat? Explaining Urban Water Privatization’s Shallow Expansion in Low- and Middle-income Countries

This article explains changes in the literature on urban water privatization in low- and middle-income countries and demonstrates the need for a revised research agenda. Since the Great Recession, ...
Wavelength Dependence of Photooxidation vs Photofragmentation of Chromocene

Photooxidation and metal−ligand photolysis reactions of bis(cyclopentadienyl)chromium, chromocene, in the range 24 390−15 630 cm-1 are studied in the gas phase by using time-of-flight mass spectroscopic detection. Photooxidation of the intact chromocene molecule unexpectedly dominates in the range 23 530−24 000 cm-1. The relative importance of photooxidation compared to photofragmentation is strongly wavelength dependent. A prominent species at all wavelengths is the chromium ion, but in a wavelength region corresponding to the lowest energy ligand to metal charge transfer excited electronic state absorption, the strongest peak is from the chromocene ion. The excitation spectra are reported for three selected species: chromocene ion, mono(cyclopentadienyl)chromium ion, and the chromium ion. The spectrum obtained by monitoring the metal ion contains sharp peaks that are assigned to neutral chromium atom resonances. Sharp losses of intensities in the molecular ion spectra are observed at these wavelengths....
Atypical prodynorphin gene expression in corticosteroid-producing cells of the rat adrenal gland.

Abstract Prodynorphin (proDyn) gene expression was examined in the rat adrenal gland. In situ hybridization revealed a heterogenous proDyn mRNA distribution limited almost exclusively to the adrenal cortex; the inner cortical layers contained the highest amounts. In the adrenal medulla, only scattered single cells were seen. By Northern (RNA) blot analysis, adrenocortical proDyn mRNA levels were highly abundant but of smaller size than proDyn transcripts found in the brain. Low levels of the brain-size proDyn mRNA transcript were detected but restricted to the medulla. A discrepancy was suggested when comparing the high abundance of proDyn mRNA levels with the low levels of proDyn-derived peptide in the adrenal. A hypothesis of nontranslation of the shorter proDyn mRNA by adrenocortical cells was rejected because polysomal loading analysis suggests that the mRNA is translated. We propose that adrenocortical proDyn-derived peptides are not targeted for storage but are released shortly after synthesis, thus accounting for low peptide levels. We also measured proDyn mRNA levels in response to stimuli known to affect adrenocortical cells and their most important function--steroidogenesis. Adrenals from hypophysectomized rats had less proDyn mRNA by a factor of 5 than adrenals from normal sham-operated rats. Normal levels were restored by adrenocorticotrophic hormone administration, indicating a potential importance of adrenal proDyn in the hypothalamic-adrenal-pituitary axis.
Glucocorticoids potentiate the dipsogenic action of angiotensin II.

Abstract The effect of a short-term, acute treatment with a glucocorticoid, dexamethasone sodium phosphate, on the drinking induced by angiotensin II (AII) was investigated in a series of experiments. Initial studies indicated that a single injection of dexamethasone (700–750 μg/kg, i.p.) reduced food intake, body weight and water intake for up to 48 h, but had little effect on blood pressure when it was measured 6 h subsequent to the injection. The drinking elicited by peripherally administered AII (200 μg/kg, s.c.) was enhanced if the glucocorticoid (700 μg/kg, i.p.) was given 3 h or 6 h prior to the dipsogen. There was no effect of pretreatment with the steroid if the drinking test was delayed by 24 h. The subsequent experiment showed that the glucocorticoid effect on AII-stimulated drinking was dose dependent (100 μg–1600 μg/kg). The drinking stimulated by intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) AII (2.5 ng) was enhanced in terms of volume and total duration by prior treatment with dexamethasone, but i.c.v. carbachol (200 ng)-induced drinking remained unaffected. The final study showed that binding of AII to its receptors in five different areas of the rat brain was not affected by prior treatment with dexamethasone.
Widespread hybridization between native Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar, and introduced brown trout, S. trutta, in eastern Newfoundland

Hybridization between native Atlantic salmon and introduced brown trout was found to occur at a mean frequency of 0.9% in Atlantic salmon populations in eastern Newfoundland. Hybrids were detected in five of the 10 watersheds studied, but consideration of sampling error suggests that they could have been present in the remaining five watersheds although they were not detected. The frequency found in the Newfoundland and other North American salmon populations is significantly greater than the 0.3% reported for salmon populations in the British Isles, and both are higher than frequencies observed in salmon populations in Sweden. The higher frequency in North America is in accord with the prediction that hybridization between species will be more frequent where one species is introduced than in areas where both are native.
Unbalanced 1;7 translocation and therapy-induced hematologic disorders: a possible relationship.

An identical chromosome abnormality, which appears to be derived from a 1;7 translocation [ +der(1), t(1;7)(p11;p11)], was observed in the bone marrow of 12 patients with various hematologic disorders at the Mayo Clinic from 1980 to 1984. At the time of cytogenetic evaluation, nine of the patients had either a myeloproliferative disorder or a myelodysplastic syndrome, one had an acute leukemia, and two had treated multiple myeloma with no morphologic evidence of evolving myeloproliferative disease. Of the 11 patients for whom information about previous therapy was available, seven had a history of exposure to chemotherapy for a previous malignant disorder; we were unable to establish whether the remaining patient had had prior treatment. This study suggests a possible relationship between +der(1), t(1;7)(p11;p11) and some treatment-induced hematologic disorders. Such chromosome abnormalities may be the result of a reciprocal chromatid translocation and adjacent I segregation of a quadriradial configuration in metaphase.
Movement of Nitrogen and Phosphorus Downslope And Beneath a Manure and Organic Waste Composting Site

This observational study was conducted to assess the movement of nitrate and phosphorus into and through the soil profile beneath a compacted gravel compost pad. The accumulation of nitrate and phosphorus in the vegetated filter strip immediately downslope of the pad was also evaluated. Soil samples were taken from the composting site and the immediate surrounding area in two transects each for the Control (outside of compost pad), Old Pad (combined manure stack and compost area), and Extension pad (compost only area). Each transect was divided into three sampling zones: within the pad, in an intermediate area between the pad and the filter strip, and within the filter strip. Compost samples from windrows of different ages and mixes were also taken for laboratory leaching test to determine the potential of the composts as source of nitrogen and phosphorus. The NO3-N concentrations in the soil beneath the compost pad of the Old Pad and Extension transects were higher than the soil NO3-N concentrations at t...
Isolation and Culture of Adult Epithelial Stem Cells from Human Skin

The homeostasis of all self-renewing tissues is dependent on adult stem cells. As undifferentiated stem cells undergo asymmetric divisions, they generate daughter cells that retain the stem cell phenotype and transit-amplifying cells (TA cells) that migrate from the stem cell niche, undergo rapid proliferation and terminally differentiate to repopulate the tissue. Epithelial stem cells have been identified in the epidermis, hair follicle, and intestine as cells with a high in vitro proliferative potential and as slow-cycling label-retaining cells in vivo (1-3). Adult, tissue-specific stem cells are responsible for the regeneration of the tissues in which they reside during normal physiologic turnover as well as during times of stress (4-5). Moreover, stem cells are generally considered to be multi-potent, possessing the capacity to give rise to multiple cell types within the tissue (6). For example, rodent hair follicle stem cells can generate epidermis, sebaceous glands, and hair follicles (7-9). We have shown that stem cells from the human hair follicle bulge region exhibit multi-potentiality (10). Stem cells have become a valuable tool in biomedical research, due to their utility as an in vitro system for studying developmental biology, differentiation, tumorigenesis and for their possible therapeutic utility. It is likely that adult epithelial stem cells will be useful in the treatment of diseases such as ectodermal dysplasias, monilethrix, Netherton syndrome, Menkes disease, hereditary epidermolysis bullosa and alopecias (11-13). Additionally, other skin problems such as burn wounds, chronic wounds and ulcers will benefit from stem cell related therapies (14,15). Given the potential for reprogramming of adult cells into a pluripotent state (iPS cells)(16,17), the readily accessible and expandable adult stem cells in human skin may provide a valuable source of cells for induction and downstream therapy for a wide range of disease including diabetes and Parkinson's disease.
Direct, Continuous Hydride Generation Coupled with Microwave Induced Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometry for the Determination of Selenium

Abstract Selenium is determined by atomic emission technique with microwave induced helium plasma as the excitation source. A continuous hydride generation system using a peristaltic pump, an effective serpentine hydride generator and a gas-liquid separator is developed and interfaced to the He-plasma. The selenium hydride and the reaction by-products are carried directly and continuously by the He carrier gas (0.6 L/min) into the plasma sustained in a tangential torch. The power level is 100 W and the tangential helium flow-rate is 4.5 L/min. The detection limit (3 0) is 40 ppb, the linear dynamic range is over three orders of magnitude, and the precision is 6.7% RSD for a 1 ppm solution. Applications to a soil sample showed comparable results to a conventional hydride generation atomic absorption system.
Atmospheric HT and HTO: I. Experimental procedures and tropospheric data 1968–72

A technique was developed for direct field sampling of atmospheric HTO and HT. Airborne, portable, and laboratory versions were implemented, and a comprehensive sampling program begun. The air is passed first through Molecular Sieve to adsorb the water, then over palladium carried on Molecular Sieve, which oxidizes atmospheric hydrogen and adsorbs the resulting water in situ . Both samples are subsequently extracted from the adsorbers, and the tritium content measured by internal low-level gas counting. Resolution is 4% of present atmospheric levels. Monitoring of HT and HTO at three stations in the Northern Hemisphere shows that HT does not undergo seasonal fluctuations like HTO, and variations are small around the present mean of about 46 HT molecules per mg air. After the previous rise from pre-nuclear level, the tropospheric HT-inventory has reached a steady state within the past few years. Sampling transects from 40°N to 65°S in 1971 and 1972 show similar HT levels in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres indicating a long residence time of HT (and hydrogen). The HT appears to have its source at ground level, most likely from nuclear fuel element processing, underground nuclear fusion device detonations, and military and civilian handling of tritium gas. In the troposphere, there is now more tritium as gas (HT or T 2 ) than as HTO (water vapor). DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1974.tb01955.x
Initial experience with cerebral protection devices to prevent embolization during carotid artery stenting.

Abstract Objective: Carotid artery stenting (CAS) for treatment of carotid stenosis has not received wide acceptance because of the availability of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) with its excellent results and because of the risk of embolic stroke associated with CAS. The feasibility and efficacy of cerebral protection devices that may prevent such embolic complications have yet to be shown. We report our initial results with CAS performed with cerebral protection. Methods: For a period of 28 months, 31 patients with carotid artery stenosis, most of whom were considered at high risk for CEA (87%), underwent treatment with CAS in conjunction with either the PercuSurge GuardWire (n = 19; Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minn), the Cordis Angioguard filter (n = 7; Cordis, Warren, NJ), or the ArteriA Parodi Anti-embolization catheter (n = 4; ArteriA, San Francisco, Calif) with US Food and Drug Administration-approved investigational device exemptions. Factors that made CEA high risk included restenosis after CEA (n = 6), hostile neck (n = 6), high or low lesions (n = 4), and severe comorbid medical conditions (n = 11). Preoperative neurologic symptoms were present in 58%, and the mean stenosis was 85% ± 12%. Data were prospectively recorded and analyzed on an intent-to-treat basis. Neurologic evaluation was performed before and after CAS by a protocol neurologist. Results: CAS was performed with local anesthesia with the Wallstent (n = 23; Boston Scientific Corp, Natick, Mass) or the PRECISE carotid stent (n = 7; Cordis) in conjunction with one of the protection devices in an operating room with a mobile C-arm. Each patient received dual antiplatelet therapy before surgery. The overall technical success rate was 97% (30/31). In one patient, the lesion could not be crossed with a guidewire because of a severely stenosed and tortuous lesion. This patient was not a candidate for CEA and was treated conservatively. In the remaining 30 cases, CAS had a good angiographic result (residual stenosis, Conclusion: CAS with cerebral protection devices can be performed safely with a high technical success rate. Although many patients who underwent treatment with CAS were at high risk, the neurologic complication rate was low and CAS appears to be an acceptable treatment option for select patients at high risk for CEA. Tight lesions and tortuous anatomy may make the use of distal protection devices difficult. Further study is warranted. (J Vasc Surg 2002;36:1175-85.)
Diagnostic Utility of Immunohistochemical Staining for p63, a Sensitive Marker of Prostatic Basal Cells

Diagnostically reliable identification of prostatic basal cells has depended on staining for high molecular weight cytokeratin. The diagnosis of malignancy is often based on the absence of basal cells. False-negative staining is occasionally observed. Thus, a second method of identifying basal cells might prove useful. Selective expression of p63, a homologue of p53, has been demonstrated in prostatic basal cells. We investigated the diagnostic utility of p63 staining in 70 consecutive specimens for which the differential diagnosis included prostatic adenocarcinoma: 68 needle biopsies and 2 transurethral resection blocks. High molecular weight cytokeratin staining was the gold standard when material was available. A total of 61 specimens were diagnosed as carcinoma, 4 as atrophy, 2 as high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia, 2 as unclassified collections of benign glands, and 1 as carcinoma versus high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia. Sections mounted on charged slides were used for p63 staining for 14 specimens. Sections previously hematoxylin and eosin stained on uncharged slides were used for 56 specimens. In every case in which there was successful p63 staining (55 specimens), basal cells in benign lesions were properly marked and other cell types were not stained. Uninformative staining in the remaining 15 specimens was due to failure of tissue adherence in 14 specimens in which sections were on uncharged slides and, in 1 specimen, to poor positive internal control staining of benign glands. Thus, p63 staining was informative in 55 of 56 specimens (98%) for which there was material for examination. No case with satisfactory p63 and high molecular weight staining showed disagreement between the two stains. An additional group of 21 transurethral resection specimens was stained (p63 and high molecular weight cytokeratin). There was less false-negative staining for p63 compared with the case of high molecular weight cytokeratin. No false-positive staining was seen. We conclude that p63 staining is at least as sensitive and specific for the identification of basal cells in diagnostic prostate specimens as is high molecular weight cytokeratin staining.
The future of fellowship training in clinical cardiac electrophysiology: Program directors' perspective 2008.

Background At the Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology (CCEP) program directors' annual meeting during the 2008 scientific sessions of the Heart Rhythm Society, a consensus emerged for an urgent need to strengthen and rejuvenate fellowship training in clinical cardiac electrophysiology. Objective A writing group of the Heart Rhythm Society Clinical Research and Training Committee was charged with defining these issues. Methods A comprehensive questionnaire designed by the writing group was used to conduct an on-line survey of the 101 CCEP program directors in the United States. Data collected included types of programs, current status of programs, duration of fellowship, teaching responsibilities of faculty, responsibilities of fellows, and volume of electrophysiology procedures. Survey responses were collated and analyzed by the writing group. Results Given the rapid evolution and increased complexity of current electrophysiology procedures, program directors were of the opinion that 1 year of clinical electrophysiology training may no longer be adequate. A need to strengthen both research and didactic training components of fellowship training was also acknowledged. The number of electrophysiology procedures performed by trainees varied greatly between programs, and standardization of didactic training and procedural volume would be welcomed. Recent trends were recognized that indicate the need for a detailed national work-force analysis in CCEP. Conclusion Through this national survey, program directors identified specific areas of need for standardization and strengthening of current fellowship training in CCEP. Based on these, specific measures can be taken to ensure the future of CCEP training.
Relationships between student perceptions of teaching behavior and learning outcomes in college biology

This study examined relationships between student perceptions of teaching behavior and learning outcomes in college biology. One-hundred one students who enrolled in an introductory college biology course reported the frequencies of 20 overt, in-class teaching behaviors exhibited by the instructor and rated the instructor on 12 measures of teaching effectiveness. Achievement tests were administered periodically throughout the two-semester time interval. A series of simple correlations between teaching behavior factors and both achievement and student ratings revealed a complex pattern of relationships. Moderately strong relationships were found between student perceptions of “information-transmitting” behaviors and achievement, while generally stronger relationships linked behavior factors with student ratings of teaching effectiveness.