cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lucid Dreaming and the Mind-Body Relationship: A Model for the Cognitive and Physiological Variations in Rapid Eye Movement Sleep

The psychophysiological properties of the lucid dream state were examined to evaluate the relationship between lucid and nonlucid dreaming, emphasizing the fact that the components of self-reflectiveness and other cognitive features commonly associated with lucid dreams occur in all dreams to various extents. Although lucid dreams are clearly toward one end of the continuum, they still share many of the characteristics present in most dreams. In this respect, exploration of lucid dreams may not necessarily be a misguided path toward the understanding of dreaming in general. A simple model was described to illustrate the mind-body relationship in various forms of REM dreaming.
A model system for opiate-receptor interactions: Mechanism of opiate-cerebroside sulfate interaction

Abstract Narcotic analgetics were shown to bind cerebroside sulfate (CS) with high affinity. The binding correlated well with their pharmacological potency. In order to understand opiate receptor interaction at the molecular level, we have proposed the use of CS as a model opiate receptor. In these studies, our data indicate that the binding of opiates is determined by the heptane solubility of the drugs and their affinity to CS. The affinity of the agonist to CS is higher than that of its corresponding antagonist. The difference in affinity between an agonist and its corresponding antagonist is mainly due to the strength of electrostatic bond formed between the protonated nitrogen of the drug and the sulfate group of CS. Furthermore, we have concluded that narcotic agonist-CS complexes are more hydrophobic (intimate ion pairs formation) while the antagonist-CS complexes are more hydrophilic (hydrated ion pairs) in nature.
Insect food preferences analysed using 13C/12C ratios.

Stable carbon isotope ratio analysis is a powerful technique in tracing ecosystem carbon flows, especially those between primary and secondary producers. The distinctive 13C/12C ratios of plant species tend to pass along the food chain with little further fractionation, hence the stable carbon isotope composition of an animal is an important clue to what it has eaten. We compared the stable carbon isotope composition of plants and insects in an old field in Georgia. Of the dominant plants in the old field, 6 were C4 species and had δ13C1 values of-10.9‰ to 12.9‰, and 7 were C3 species with values of-27.3‰ to-29.1‰. Insects known to be feeding on only one plant species had δ13C values within 1‰ of the isotopic composition of the plant. Wasp larvae parasitizing two insect species had δ13C values 1.3 and 1.7‰ higher than that of the food plant. A variety of insects of unknown food habits collected on monospecific and mixed species plant stands in the old field had δ13C values ranging from-10.1‰ to-30.0‰. Two species of leafhopper and a grasshopper had isotopic compositions within the range of C4 plant values; a tortoise beetle and a lace bug had isotopic compositions within C3 plant values. Other insects had intermediate δ13C values, suggesting a mixed diet composed of both C3 and C4 plants. The carbon isotopic ratios of field collected insects appears to be a useful qualitative indicator of their feeding preference.
Antinociceptive effect of ketanserin in mice: involvement of supraspinal 5-HT2 receptors in nociceptive transmission.

The involvement of 5-HT2 receptors in pain transmission was investigated in mice. Subcutaneous administration of the selective 5-HT2 receptor antagonist ketanserin produced dose-dependent antinociception in the hot-plate and acetic acid-induced writhing tests with ED50 values (95% confidence limit) of 1.51 (1.13-1.89) and 0.62 (0.10-1.40) mg/kg, respectively, but was without any significant effect on the tail-flick test. Pretreatment with the catecholamine depletors 6-hydroxydopamine (2.5 micrograms, i.c.v.) or alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine (200 mg/kg, s.c.), or the serotonin synthesis inhibitor p-chlorophenylalanine methylester (200 mg/kg, s.c.), resulted in a significant decrease in the antinociceptive effect of ketanserin. Likewise, intrathecal (i.t.) administration of 1 microgram/mouse of idazoxan (an alpha 2-antagonist), methysergide (mixed 5-HT1, and 5-HT2 antagonist) or ketanserin also reversed the antinociceptive effect of s.c. administered ketanserin. The results of this work indicate that 5-HT2 receptors located supraspinally may inhibit descending nociceptive neurotransmission. In addition, these studies suggest that 5-HT2 receptors located at the spinal level modulate nociception.
Travel Mode Choice Modeling with Support Vector Machines

This study investigates the applications of nontraditional models for travel mode choice modeling, which traditionally has relied on disaggregate discrete choice models such as multinomial logit models. A new artificial intelligence model, a support vector machine, is applied for the first time to travel mode choice modeling. This support vector machine model is tested and compared with a multinomial logit model and a multilayer feedforward neural network model based on data collected in the San Francisco Bay Area in California. Two scenarios with different training data sizes are tested. For both scenarios, the support vector machine model outperforms the multinomial logit model in terms of fitting and testing results. Although the multilayer feedforward neural network model performs best for fitting, it underperforms the other two models for testing. It is recommended that the support vector machine model be used as an alternative procedure for travel mode choice modeling because of its promising perfor...
Accidental Nd:YAG Laser Injuries to the Macula

Purpose To study the clinical course of accidental, single-focus Nd:YAG laser injuries to the macula. Methods We reviewed the clinical course of five eyes (four patients) that sustained macular injuries from a Nd:YAG laser. All patients were examined within 24 hours of injury and were observed without surgical intervention for a mean of 20 months (range, 12 to 32 months). Results A single full-thickness foveal or parafoveal retinal hole was apparent in all eyes either on initial examination or within two weeks of injury. All macular holes were within 650 μm of the foveal center. The mean final visual acuity was 20/60 (range, 20/25 to 20/400) and was related to the distance between the macular hole and the foveal center. None of the eyes developed either subretinal neovascularization or clinically significant epiretinal membrane formation during the study period. Conclusions Despite initial poor visual acuity in patients who had a full-thickness foveal or parafoveal retinal hole, visual acuity improved without treatment when the site of the laser injury was located outside the foveal center.
Nurses' Psychosocial Barriers to Suicide Risk Management

Suicide remains a serious health care problem and a sentinel event tracked by The Joint Commission. Nurses are pivotal in evaluating risk and preventing suicide. Analysis of nurses' barriers to risk management may lead to interventions to improve management of suicidal patients. These data emerged from a random survey of 454 oncology nurses' attitudes, knowledge of suicide, and justifications for euthanasia. Instruments included a vignette of a suicidal patient and a suicide attitude questionnaire. Results. Psychological factors (emotions, unresolved grief, communication, and negative judgments about suicide) complicate the nurse's assessment and treatment of suicidal patients. Some nurses (n = 122) indicated that euthanasia was never justified and 11 were unsure of justifications and evaluated each case on its merits. Justifications for euthanasia included poor symptom control, poor quality of life, incurable illness or permanent disability, terminal illness, and terminal illness with inadequate symptom control or impending death, patient autonomy, and clinical organ death. The nurses indicated some confusion and misconceptions about definitions and examples of euthanasia, assisted suicide, and double effect. Strategies for interdisciplinary clinical intervention are suggested to identify and resolve these psychosocial barriers.
Is interfacial chemistry correlated to gap states for high-k/III-V interfaces?

We examine the correlation of the interfacial chemistry of atomic layer deposited, high-k/III-V interfaces with device behavior in view of first principles modelling. We find that the oxidation of the interface results in the formation of persistent deleterious defects such as As dimers, with a near surface concentration sufficiently high to be detectable by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
Adaptive Flat Micro-Mirror Array-Based Computational Imaging Architecture

A thin, agile, multi-resolution, computational imaging sensor architecture, termed PANOPTES, which utilizes arrays of MEMS micro-mirrors to adaptively redirect the fields-of-view of multiple low-resolution sub-imagers, is described. An information theory-based super-resolution algorithm restores the image.
Aspects of dynamic disorder in charge transport in polymers

Aspects of dynamic disorder in charge transport in polymers are investigated. Basic issues such as polaron formation, the validity of semiclassical arguments and the memory function method of mobility calculation are studied.
Copper coated polybags improve seedling morphology for two nursery-grown Mexican pine species

Abstract Root spiraling, root egression through drainage holes, and poor growing medium drainage are common problems in polybag seedling production systems in Mexico. Two commercially and environmentally important Mexican conifer species, Pinus pseudostrobus Lindi. and Pinus montezumae Lamb., were grown in simulated Mexican “platabanda” nursery conditions. The seedlings were grown in polybag containers, with and without chemical root pruning and with six different drainage designs. A chemical root pruning product, Spin Out®, was evaluated on these two pine species. Six different drainage designs ranging from an open-bottom, well-drained design, to small holes and restricted drainage were tested. The results clearly demonstrated benefits from the chemical root pruning, but the impact of the drainage treatments was distorted by the use of a well-drained growing medium. Root collar diameter, shoot dry weight, and root dry weight were increased in Spin Out®-treated seedlings. These seedlings also had significantly fewer roots egressing from the bag and spiraling at the bottom of the polybag. Generally, Spin Out®-treated seedlings had a more fibrous and well-developed root system than untreated seedlings. Chemical root pruning can be used to reduce or eliminate root deformations and improve seedling quality of these two Mexican pines.
Modifying an Evidence-Based Summer Treatment Program for Use in a Summer School Setting: A Pilot Effectiveness Evaluation

This report evaluates a pilot implementation of a modified version of the Summer Treatment Program (STP; Pelham et al. in Evidence-based psychotherapies for children and adolescents. The Guilford Press, New York, 2010) as an afternoon adjunct to a mandatory summer school curriculum in three inner city elementary schools (Summer School STP; SSSTP). Using preliminary post-test measures, the SSSTP was compared with afternoon adjunct programs implemented in two comparison schools. Students in pre-kindergarten through sixth grade who failed to meet grade-level requirements for grade promotion were required to attend the program and served as participants (SSSTP n = 585; Comparison n = 686). Measures collected include the following: student self-reports, teachers’ program evaluations, staff evaluations (of students, program, benefit to self), staff ratings of benefit to junior counselors (i.e., adolescent employees), and independent observations. Results suggest that the SSSTP is an acceptable and feasible adjunctive intervention for the summer school setting in inner city schools. Further research is needed to examine academic and therapeutic benefits.
Confocal microscopic study of glial-vascular relationships in the retinas of pigmented rats

Astroglia are interposed between the cerebral vasculature and neurons, where they may mediate the transfer of substances from the circulation to neurons and couple changes in neuronal activity to changes in cerebral blood flow. The retina is a particularly advantageous model system for studying glial-vascular interactions in situ. Confocal microscopy and three-dimensional image reconstruction were used to study the anatomical relationships between glia and the surface vasculature in retinas acutely isolated from adult pigmented rats. Retinas were immunostained using antibodies directed against the basal lamina surrounding the vasculature as well as antibodies directed against glial fibrillary acidic protein. Surface vessels of all calibers were contacted by the processes of astrocytes. The vitreal surfaces of the large retinal vessels were covered by a meshwork of immunoreactive astrocyte processes of a variety of shapes, whereas the scleral surfaces of the vessels were supported by thick bundles of astrocyte processes. In addition, glial cells were filled intracellularly with the gap junction-permeable tracers Lucifer yellow and Neurobiotin. Intracellular fills clearly demonstrated the presence of astrocytes with somata that were closely apposed to the large retinal vessels. Tracer-filled astrocytes displayed a variety and complexity of shapes that was not apparent in immunostained material. Gap junctional coupling was stronger between astrocytes adjacent to the same artery than between periarterial astrocytes and astrocytes located away from arteries. Significantly fewer Muller cells were labeled when Neurobiotin was injected into astrocytes associated with arteries than when Neurobiotin was injected into astrocytes that were distant from arteries.
Pre-service teachers’ defensive pessimism in situ: Two case studies within a mathematics classroom

Abstract In this study, defensive pessimism is reviewed in relation to anxiety, self-esteem, expectations, self-regulation, and self-handicapping. Then, two case studies of American pre-service teachers in a mathematics classroom are provided that move the research beyond survey and correlational studies. In the case analyses, defensive pessimists’ discourse and behaviours are examined and additional characteristics are noted, e.g., expressions of humour and self-congratulations. In connection with teaching, teachers are encouraged to support defensive pessimists’ learning strategies, such as perseverance and the use of multiple representations, so that the focus is on meaningful learning instead of the negative self-talk.
Use of a PhET Interactive Simulation in General Chemistry Laboratory: Models of the Hydrogen Atom.

An activity supporting the PhET interactive simulation, Models of the Hydrogen Atom, has been designed and used in the laboratory portion of a general chemistry course. This article describes the framework used to successfully accomplish implementation on a large scale. The activity guides students through a comparison and analysis of the six atomic models presented in the simulation, which provides explicit visual representations of abstract concepts. When used together, the activity and simulation address the important and challenging topic of science as model development, and offer students insight into the nature of science. Survey results indicate a positive response from students for laboratory activities, like this one, that include computer simulations.
Intraovarian effect of the corpus luteum on ovarian follicles during early pregnancy in heifers

Ovarian follicles ⩾2 mm were studied in 14 Holstein heifers by daily ultrasound examinations from Day 0 to Day 60 of pregnancy. Data were partitioned by ovary bearing the corpus luteum versus the contralateral ovary. There were more (P 13 mm in the ovary bearing the corpus luteum. The interaction of day of pregnancy and location of the corpus luteum was significant (P 13 mm. The differences in the numbers of follicles 7–10 mm, 11–13 mm, and > 13 mm between the ovary bearing the corpus luteum and the contralateral ovary became manifest after approximately Day 22. Diameters of the largest and second largest follicles were greater (P <0.02 and P <0.05, respectively) in the ovary contralateral to the corpus luteum. The interaction of day of pregnancy and luteal location was significant for diameter of the largest follicle (P < 0.02), but not for diameter of the second largest follicle. The presence of a corpus luteum appeared to exert a local control over the growth of follicles. The corpus luteum apparently was a negative influence for the growth of follicles larger than approximately 7 mm after Day 21 or 22 of pregnancy.
The incidence and fate of endoleaks vary between ruptured and elective endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair.

Abstract Background The number of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (r-AAA) patients who are treated by endovascular means is increasing as ruptured endovascular aneurysm repair (r-EVAR) enters the mainstream. However, even today, data on the incidence and behavior of endoleaks after r-EVAR are scarce. This study analyzed whether endoleaks behave differently after EVAR for rupture vs elective AAA repair. Methods From 2002 to 2013, there were 2052 patients who underwent EVAR for treatment of rupture (n = 166 [8.1%]) and elective repair (n = 1886 [91.9%]) of infrarenal AAA. Follow-up included computed tomography angiography at 1 month, at 6 months, and yearly thereafter. All type I and type III endoleaks were treated at the time of or shortly after the diagnosis. Persistent type II endoleaks at >6 months after EVAR without a decrease in AAA sac underwent translumbar or transfemoral embolization procedures. Data were prospectively collected in a vascular database. Results During a mean follow-up of 30 months, patients had a significantly lower incidence of type II endoleaks after r-EVAR compared with elective endovascular aneurysm repair (e-EVAR; n = 15 [9.0%] vs n = 380 [20.2%]; P P = .68), the r-EVAR patients required stent graft explantation more frequently (n = 9 [5.4%] vs n = 20 [1.1%]; P P = .37) groups, patients undergoing percutaneous embolization procedures trended toward significance between the two groups (n = 11 [6.6%] vs n = 216 [11.5%]; P = .06) with endoleaks. Conclusions Compared with e-EVAR, patients who undergo r-EVAR experience a similar incidence of type I endoleaks and a significantly lower incidence of type II endoleaks. The endoleaks in both e-EVAR and r-EVAR patients can frequently be managed by endovascular means. However, r-EVAR patients with type I and type II endoleaks are at a significantly higher risk for stent graft explantation.
Vibrational Dynamics of Terminal Acetylenes: III. Comparison of the Acetylenic C−H Stretch Intramolecular Vibrational-Energy Redistribution Rates in Ultracold Molecular Beams, Room-Temperature Gases, and Room-Temperature Dilute Solutions

The population relaxation rate of the first excited state of the acetylenic C−H stretch is compared for a series of isolated and solvated terminal acetylenes. The isolated molecule relaxation rate for ultracold molecules is measured using high-resolution infrared spectroscopy in a molecular beam. These measurements use a microwave−infrared double-resonance technique to obtain rotationally resolved spectra that originate in the vibrational ground state. The relaxation rates in room-temperature gas and dilute CCl4 solution (0.05 M) are measured using two-color transient absorption picosecond spectroscopy. Although the molecule-dependent contribution to the total relaxation rate in solution is proportional to the population relaxation rate measured for the isolated molecule under molecular-beam conditions, a large scale factor (27) is required to reach quantitative agreement. Part of the reason a large IVR scaling rate is observed can be attributed to the fact that the intramolecular vibrational-energy redis...
Curcuminoids Inhibit the Angiogenic Response Stimulated by Fibroblast Growth Factor-2, Including Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinase Gelatinase B

We have studied mechanisms controlling activation of the gelatinase B gene (matrix metalloproteinase-9) by fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) during angiogenesis, and the effects of the natural product curcuminoids on this process. Using a transgenic mouse (line 3445) harboring a gelatinase B promoter/lacZ fusion gene, we demonstrate FGF-2 stimulation of reporter gene expression in endothelial cells of invading neocapillaries in the corneal micropocket assay. Using cultured corneal cells, we show that FGF-2 stimulates DNA binding activity of transcription factor AP-1 but not NF-κB and that AP-1 stimulation is inhibited by curcuminoids. We further show that induction of gelatinase B transcriptional promoter activity in response to FGF-2 is dependent on AP-1 but not NF-κB response elements and that promoter activity is also inhibited by curcuminoids. In rabbit corneas, the angiogenic response induced by implantation of an FGF-2 pellet is inhibited by the co-implantation of a curcuminoid pellet, and this correlates with inhibition of endogenous gelatinase B expression induced by FGF-2. Angiostatic efficacy in the cornea is also observed when curcuminoids are provided to mice in the diet. Our findings provide evidence that curcuminoids target the FGF-2 angiogenic signaling pathway and inhibit expression of gelatinase B in the angiogenic process.
GROUNDWATER ABATEMENT ALTERNATIVES FOR REMOVAL OF ORGANIC CONTAMINANTS

ABSTRACT Losses and spills of refined petroleum products have in some cases become a groundwater problem of major significance. The effects of fugitive volatile organics in the subsurface are various. Common concerns are the contamination of potable water supplies, long-term health problems associated with inhalation of hydrocarbon vapors and odors, and flammable concentrations of vapors in homes, utility conduits, and buildings. The sources of petroleum losses are also quite varied, ranging from small losses at homeowners' fuel storage tanks to major leaks at commercial refining, storage, transfer, and retailing facilities. Although recent years have seen marked increases in the safe handling, control, and transfer of refined organic products, inadvertent, accidental, and certainly unintentional losses of organics still occur. When these problems occur, it is common for the smaller losses at retail outlets (service stations) to have the greater social and environmental impacts. This is true because the r...
Does Chatter Matter? the Impact of User-Generated Content on Music Sales

The Internet has enabled the era of user-generated content, threatening the hegemony of traditional content generators as the primary sources of "legitimate" information. In this study, we examine the usefulness of such content, consisting of data from blogs and social networking sites, in predicting sales in the music industry. We track changes in online chatter for a sample of 108 albums for four weeks before and after their release dates. We use linear and nonlinear regression to identify the relative significance of variables on the observation date in predicting future album unit sales two weeks ahead. Our findings are that future sales are positively correlated with (a) the volume of blog posts about an album, (b) traditional factors such as whether the album is released by a major label and reviews from mainstream sources like Rolling Stone, and (c) blog chatter above a certain "critical mass" of legitimate blog posts, in this case more than 250, before an album is released. More generally, the study provides some preliminary answers for marketing managers interested in assessing the relative importance of the burgeoning number of "Web 2.0" information metrics that are becoming available on the Internet, and shows that looking at interactions among them could provide predictive value beyond viewing them in isolation. The study also provides a framework for thinking about when user-generated content influences decision making.
Investigation of the Applicability of Solid State Fluorescence to Pharmaceutical Analysis

Abstract Ten compounds were examined for their ability to fluoresce in the solid state as they occur in tablet form. Four of these compounds showed fluorescence which could be correlated with per cent composition of fluorophor. Particle size or compression variation did not affect fluorescence, although slight effects were noted due to the shape of the tablet surface and degree of smoothness. Instrumental parameters have been discussed.
Applying Zen principles in an introductory programming course

The word "zen" often conjures up images of robed and shaven headed monks sitting in lotus position in a meditation hall in a japanese monastery. For most people it is hard to reconcile this image with that of modern computer technology. But in my experience as a teacher of computer programming I have found that certain zen principles can be very valuable for people learning about computers.Despite its "philosophical" or "abstract" reputation, zen is actually a practice aimed at helping people cope with everyday life. In a sense it is anti-philosophical because it emphasizes actions not words. Historically, zen was practiced in the context of very pragmatic and technical skills such as archery and swordsmanship. The discipline had specific exercises aimed at improving one's technical skills while simultaneously providing opportunity for a kind of spiritual growth. While programming a computer is a cognitive skill instead of a physical skill, zen principles still have important application to the psychology of learning.
Two-stage temperature rise in a thermoviscoplastic half-plane under impact

A thermoviscoplastic constitutive model is used to treat uniaxial shock wave propagation in a material exhibiting rate-sensitive plasticity and thermal softening. Simple relations are obtained for the pressure jump as a function of the density jump, shock speed as a function of particle velocity, and pressure decay behind the shock front. Also, the model predicts a two-stage temperature rise, involving a jump at the shock front followed by a rise due to plastic dissipation (stress decay). The temperature rise and other quantities are predicted in the case of impact of titanium plates.
Normal expression of p55 interleukin 2 receptor (CD25) by lymphocytes from former blood donors seropositive for human T lymphotropic virus

Dysregulated expression of the p55 interleukin 2 receptor (CD25) is characteristic of adult T cell leukemia (ATL) associated with human T lymphotropic virus (HTLV) infection. In order to determine if similar changes characterize HTLV infection in the apparent absence of ATL, CD25 expression by peripheral blood lymphocytes from HTLV-seropositive former blood donors was measured using a sensitive dual-color cytofluorometric assay. When comparing the HTLV-seropositive group (N = 19) and a seronegative control group (N = 20), no significant differences were observed in either the proportions of the major lymphocyte subsets (CD3, CD4, CD8, CD19, CD16/56) coexpressing CD25 or the phenotypic distribution of CD25+ cells among these lymphocyte subsets. Similarly, the total percentages of CD3, CD4, CD8, and CD19 cell subsets were unchanged; however, the percentage of CD16/56+ cells was significantly decreased in the HTLV group and reflected a decrease in the percentage of CD16/56 cells lacking CD25. These findings indicate that HTLV infection without ATL is characterized by normal CD25 expression by lymphocytes and a decreased percentage of lymphocytes with a phenotype characteristic of natural killer cells.
Musculoskeletal syndromes associated with malignancy

Summary Evidence has been presented supporting a causal relationship between malignancies and musculoskeletal syndromes. This discussion has dealt primarily with lesser known relationships, more common associations such as hypertrophic osteoarthropathy and dermatomyositis being reviewed elsewhere. The ones discussed herein closely mimic primary connective tissue diseases and offer an insight into the study of the pathogenesis of these primary diseases. In view of the natural history of malignant disease, the hope for such patients arises from the physicians early diagnosis and treatment of the underlying malignancy. Early diagnosis and treatment may in turn be entirely dependent on the physician's awareness of a musculoskeletal syndrome being the presenting feature of an otherwise occult neoplasm. Several connective tissue syndromes appear to predispose to the development of malignancy, and increasing evidence suggests that this development of malignancy may be further enhanced by immunosuppressive therapy.
Gangliosides of normal and neoplastic human melanocytes

The major ganglioside component isolated from diploid human melanocytes is sialosyllactosylceramide (GM3 86-91% of total sialic acid). The corresponding disialo derivative (GD3) is found as a minor component (2-6% of total sialic acid) in the membranes of these cells. In human melanoma cells, grown in tissue culture, GD3 is the predominant ganglioside component (48-63% of total sialic acid). Withdrawal of TPA from the culture medium of normal melanocytes or addition of TPA to the medium of melanoma cells had no significant effect on GM3/GD3 ratios. We conclude that the difference between the composition of gangliosides is related to the normal vs transformed phenotypes of melanocytes.
The role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ in blood pressure regulation

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) is a member of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily. It is expressed in adipocytes, immune cells, and cardiovascular cells that include cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, and smooth muscle cells. PPARγ plays a role in regulating cellular anti-inflammatory responses and is a mediator of insulin sensitization induced by thiazolidinediones, which also can reduce elevated blood pressure both clinically and experimentally. As a result, research regarding the role of PPARγ in blood pressure homeostasis is ongoing. Recent studies have demonstrated that increases or decreases in blood pressure phenotype may be PPARγ-dependent and involve a number of different signaling pathways. Furthermore, studies using PPARγ mutant transgenic and knockout animal models provide further evidence regarding a role for endothelial-cell and vascular smooth muscle-cell PPARγ in blood pressure regulation. However, there is a need for further research regarding PPARγ- mediated mechanisms involved in maintaining physiologic control of blood pressure.
Extending the ARC model with generative coordination

The ARC (Actor, Role, Coordinator) model extends the actor model with roles and coordinators to achieve a behavior-based coordination model that preserves the semantics of the actor model. An ARC role coordinates a dynamic set of actors whose intensional representation and membership criteria are defined by a static description of abstract behavior. An ARC coordinator enacts role-based coordination policies expressed in terms of ARC roles. In this paper, we focus on the satisfaction of functional coordination requirements via the generation and manipulation of actor messages by role and coordinator actors in the ARC model.
Plasmodium vivax: Malarial proteins associated with the membrane-bound caveola-vesicle complexes and cytoplasmic cleft structures of infected erythrocytes

The identification of antigens of parasite origin associated with the altered membrane of Plasmodium vivax-infected erythrocytes was undertaken in this study. The 125I-lactoperoxidase catalyzed surface radiolabeling of trophozoite-infected erythrocytes revealed new bands of 95 and 70 kDa not labeled in normal erythrocytes. Erythrocyte membrane-enriched preparations from [35S]methionine biosynthetically labeled-infected erythrocytes also indicated that in addition to bands at 95 and 70 kDa, several other parasite proteins were possibly membrane associated. Five monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) reactive with P. vivax produced an immunofluorescent pattern of numerous small dots scattered over the entire infected erythrocyte. This pattern mimics that of Schuffner's stippling; small red dots seen in Giemsa-stained P. vivax-infected erythrocytes, which represent accumulations of dye in caveola-vesicle complexes (CVC). Four of the monoclonal antibodies immunoprecipitated a Triton X-100 detergent-insoluble 95-kDa parasite protein which was localized by immunofluorescent assay and immunoelectron microscopy exclusively to the CVC. Two of these Mabs were immunofluorescence reactive with the surface of intact infected erythrocytes in suspension. The fifth Mab, which also localized exclusively to the CVC structures, immunoprecipitated a Triton X-100 extractable protein of 70 kDa. Two other monoclonal antibodies reacted exclusively with the numerous membranous cleft structures found in the cytoplasm of infected erythrocytes. This cleft-associated parasite antigen was 28 kDa in size. Some of these Mabs recognize epitopes and produce similar IFA patterns on erythrocytes infected with P. cynomolgi, P. knowlesi, and P. ovale parasites, but not with P. falciparum- or P. brasilianum-infected erythrocytes.
An American Nightmare: Remembered Wrongs in 12 Years a Slave

Sub-cultural groups that depend on a historical account to validate their thoughts and practices may need to revise and repair those accounts as changing circumstances present new issues affecting them. The year 2013 gave us three movies that dealt with racism, mobility, and political action: Lee Daniels’ The Butler, 12 Years a Slave, and Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom. All based on autobiographical accounts of the real life experiences of the authors, they present a theme of contrast between brutal oppression and benign inclusion. The pattern differs from the popular version of the American Dream, and the movies are grim, provocative documents during a period of apparent African American progress and achievement.
Processing characteristics and structure development in solid-state extrusion of a new semicrystalline polyimide (BTDA–DMDA)

In this article, we present detailed processing characteristics and structure development in a thermoplastic polyimide BTDA–DMDA in the solid-state extrusion process. This fully imidized polyimide polymer is known to crosslink at fast rates when it is brought to a molten phase even for short periods of time. This characteristic makes it difficult to process it in the molten phase and attempts at melt processing result in melt fracture and highly distorted extrudates. However, this polymer can be shaped into high-quality extrudates when it is processed below its melting temperature directly from its postpolymerization powdered state. The solid-state extrusion of precompacted BTDA–DMDA powder was studied in the temperature range from 250 to 320°C. At the temperatures from 290 to 320°C, high-quality extrudates were obtained. Below 290°C, solid-state extrusion was not possible due to the limitation of the load cell capacity of the capillary rheometer used in this research. Above 320°C, the extrudates were found to be of poor quality as a result of degradation and crosslinking in the molten phase. Structural characteristics of the samples produced by solid-state extrusion was investigated by the microbeam X-ray diffraction technique. The thermal behavior of the extrudates was also characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The DSC results show that at low extrusion temperatures the samples exhibit dual endothermic peaks and are highly crystalline in an extruded state. The higher melting peak located at about 350°C is due to the melting of the new crystalline phase that has developed partially during the solid-state extrusion process and partially during the recrystallization process that takes place at temperatures at and slightly above the primary melting process during the DSC heating scan. This has been confirmed by DSC, depolarized light hot-stage video microscopy, and wide-angle X-ray diffraction studies. The long spacing of the higher melting crystals was found to be much larger than that of the lower melting crystals, as evidenced by the small angle X-ray scattering studies. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The Inclusive Workplace: An Ecosystems Approach to Diversity Management

This article's main argument is that organizations need to expand their notion of diversity to include not only the organization itself, but also the larger systems that constitute its environment. The concept of "the inclusive workplace," introduced here, refers to a work organization that is not only accepting and using the diversity of its own work force, but also is active in the community, participates in state and federal programs to include working poor people, and collaborates across cultural and national boundaries with a focus on global mutual interests. Using an ecosystems perspective, the article outlines a value-based model and a practice-based model of the inclusive workplace as they pertain to the different organizational levels, from the micro to the macro. Finally, implications for the social work profession are drawn with specific case examples for each system level.
Protection against L‐NAME‐induced reduction in cardiac output persists even after cessation of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor treatment

Aim We have demonstrated that short-term angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition in adult spontaneously hypertensive rats produces cardiac changes that persist following cessation of treatment that result in a reduced inflammatory, proliferative and fibrotic response to the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor Nω-Nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). The present study examines whether prior ACE inhibition with enalapril also protects against L-NAME-induced cardiac dysfunction. Methods Rats were treated with enalapril (Enal + L) or tap water (Con, Con + L) for 2 weeks followed by a 2-week washout period. At this point, Con + L and Enal + L rats were treated with L-NAME for 10 days. Hearts were perfused in the working mode, mean arterial pressure (MAP) was assessed via radiotelemetry, and myocardial injury was evaluated in hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections. Results L-NAME increased MAP by a similar magnitude in Con + L and Enal + L. L-NAME-induced statistically significant decreases in flow-mediated functional parameters in Con + L rats including cardiac output, stroke volume and coronary flow. This was prevented by prior enalapril treatment. Prior enalapril did not prevent L-NAME-induced myocardial injury, but may have lessened the degree of it. Regardless of treatment, changes in cardiac function did not correlate with myocardial injury. Conclusion Despite equivalent impact on MAP and incidence of myocardial infarction, prior enalapril treatment resulted in the preservation of cardiac function following L-NAME. Understanding the mechanisms by which transient ACE inhibition protects against reductions in cardiac function in the absence of ongoing treatment may reveal novel targets for heart failure treatment.
Abdominal inflammatory pseudotumor presenting with massive ascites

A boy who presented with massive ascites was found to have tumors involving the urinary bladder, omentum, and retroperitoneum. Laparotomy demonstrated inflammatory pseudotumors. The patient was managed by partial excision of the tumors and chemotheraphy. Abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography at 4-month follow-up showed complete resolution of the tumors and no ascites.
Preserved enzymatic activity of glucose oxidase immobilized on an unmodified electrode

A novel glucose oxidase (GOx) electrode has been presented through immobilizing GOx on unmodified edge plane of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (epHOPG). The GOx/epHOPG electrode showed direct electron transfer between GOx and epHOPG due to the redox process of GOx. The measured formal potential of the redox process agrees with that of the native enzyme, suggesting that the immobilized GOx retained its enzymatic activity. The estimated electron transfer rate of the epHOPG electrode immobilized GOx is greater than those for which GOx is immobilized on modified electrodes probably due to the fact that the enzyme makes direct contact to the epHOPG surface. The GOx/epHOPG electrode showed the electrochemical oxidation behavior in the presence of glucose by the immobilized GOx. Therefore, the response of the electrode to glucose confirms that the immobilized GOx retained its enzymatic activity. The properties of the electrode as a glucose sensor are presented.
The Economic Crisis of 1619 to 1623

Various states in the Holy Roman Empire prepared for the Thirty Years' War by creating new mints and debasing the subsidiary coinage. The process spread through Gresham's Law: bad money was taken by debasing states to their neighbors and exchanged for good. The neighbor typically defended itself by debasing its own coin. The resulting hyperinflation was terminated early in the war by an agreement to return to the Imperial Augsburg Ordinance of 1559. The Kipper- und Wipperzeit, as the period is called, illuminates the geographic spread of financial crises, German hypennflations of this century, and current proposals for “free banking.”
Tolerance Induction by Anti-CD2 Plus Anti-CD3 Monoclonal Antibodies: Evidence for an IL-4 Requirement

Anti-CD2 mAb plus anti-CD3 mAb induce alloantigen specific tolerance. We sought to determine whether Th2 cytokines are involved in the induction of tolerance in this model. Addition of anti-IL-4 mAb or anti-IL-10 mAb to anti-CD2 plus anti-CD3 treatment abrogated tolerance and resulted in graft survivals of 26 ± 4 and 25 ± 5 days, respectively. Splenocytes from the anti-IL-4 mAb and anti-IL-10 groups had greater proliferation in response to alloantigen than either tolerant or naive groups. Cytokine analysis of MLR supernatants showed increased IL-10 in the tolerant group and increased IFN-γ in the anti-IL-4 mAb treated group. Donor-specific alloantibody responses in untreated immune animals had a predominantly Th1 (IgG2a) alloantibody response, while the tolerogenic regimen reduced the ratio of IgG2a:IgG1 titers. The addition of anti-IL-4 mAb to the tolerogenic regimen partly restored the Th1-related IgG2a response. Tolerance did not develop in IL-4 knockout animals treated with anti-CD2 plus anti-CD3 (mean graft survival, 27 ± 5 days). Restoration of IL-4 to IL-4 knockout animals by gene transfer with plasmid DNA resulted in prolongation of survival to 46 ± 7 days, while adoptive transfer of wild-type splenocytes into IL-4 knockout recipients resulted in indefinite graft survival (>60 days) and indefinite survival of second donor-type grafts. IL-10 gene transfer to IL-4 knockout recipients did not prolong graft survival (28 ± 4). These results demonstrate that tolerance in this model is mediated at least in part by Th2-type cells that secrete IL-4, promote IL-10 and IgG1 production, and inhibit alloantigen reactivity.
A note on recursive maximum likelihood for autoregressive modeling

Rederives recursive maximum likelihood (RML) for an autoregressive (AR) time series using the Levinson decomposition. This decomposition produces a recursive update of the likelihood function for the AR parameters in terms of the reflection coefficients, prediction error variances, and forward and backward prediction errors. A fast algorithm for this recursive update is presented and compared with the recursive updates of the Burg (1975) algorithm. The comparison clarifies the connection between Burg's algorithm and RML. >
Both sexes pay a cost of reproduction in a frog with biparental care

The assumption that reproduction is costly is central to life-history theory. Good evidence supporting this premise comes from studies, mostly in short-lived invertebrates, demonstrating a negative relationship between reproduction and longevity. Whether this trade-off operates broadly, for example in males and females and in short- and long-lived organisms, remains unresolved. We found a negative relationship between reproduction and days survived in captive, wild-caught, individuals of a long-lived poison frog with biparental care (Oophaga pumilio). The proportion of time that individuals spent paired and tadpole production rate were negatively associated with days survived in both sexes, and clutch production was negatively associated with days survived in females. These results broaden the taxonomic base upon which this tenet of life-history theory is built, empirically confirm that females of this species should be choosy when selecting mates and caring for offspring, and suggest that the costs of ‘limited’ male care in this species deserve re-evaluation. © 2015 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2015, , –.
Spectral analysis of Canada Basin under‐ice draft distribution as recorded by the USS Queenfish, August 1970

Spectral analysis has been applied to 940 kilometers of under-ice thickness data recorded by the USS QUEENFISH in the Canada Basin, August 1970. Periodicities of 50-150 m most commonly occurred throughout the track, with longer wavelengths common in areas of thicker, more variable ice. While some regional variations could be discerned, unique regional patterns were not apparent, supporting the hypothesis that ice characteristics in this region are relatively homogeneous.
Ironic denial: tobože in Croatian political discourse

Abstract This study examines syntactic, semantic, and pragmatic aspects of the Croatian parenthetical focus discourse marker tobože (‘pretendedly, allegedly, supposedly’) and the relevance of its use in political discourse. This echoic particle expresses an ironic denial of another's opinion or belief. Although tobože displays only procedural properties, it reinforces its illocutionary force by conveying folk-etymological meaning. Thus, it is suggested that this discourse marker is both culturally and conceptually specific. Finally, this study argues that the host discourse of tobože is motivated pragmatically and thus is predictable.
Antecedent Manipulation in the Treatment of Primary Solid Food Refusal

A 4-year-old with primary solid food refusal was treated with systematic fading of utensil type and food texture, using a multiple probe design across food groups. The subject was a multi-handicapped boy hospitalized for feeding problems, self-injurious behaviors, and sleep cycle reversal. At admission, the subject received all nutrition in the form of a liquid nutritional supplement through regular bottle feedings every half hour. Craniofacial anomalies and past multiple facial surgeries precluded the use of a physical prompting procedure. During the first treatment phase, pureed foods were presented with a preexisting stimulus (a regularbaby bottle). Accepted presentations were reinforced with music delivered through headphones. All other behaviors received neutral consequences. In the second treatment phase, undiluted pureed foods were presented in bottles, which allowed experimenter control of the size of the bolus entering the mouth. Consequences were identical to those in Treatment 1. Next, spoon-fe...