cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Formation of B and T cell subsets require the cannabinoid receptor CB2.

A recent and surprising body of research has linked changes in immune function to biologic and therapeutic targeting of cannabinoid receptors, which prototypically respond to delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol. The peripheral cannabinoid receptor CB2 is highly expressed in immune cell types (macrophages, dendritic cells, and B cells), and pharmacologically alters their cytokine production and responsiveness. Accordingly, cannabinoid agonists can powerfully alter susceptibility to certain microbial infections, atherosclerosis, and cancer immunotherapy. What is unknown is the physiologic role of natural levels of endocannabinoids and their receptors in normal immune homeostasis. Gαi2−/− mice are deficient in the formation of certain B and T cell subsets and are susceptible to immune dysregulation, notably developing inflammatory bowel disease. A key issue is the identity of the Gi-coupled receptors relevant to this Gαi2-signaling pathway. We find that mice deficient in CB2, the Gi-coupled peripheral endocannabinoid receptor, have profound deficiencies in splenic marginal zone, peritoneal B1a cells, splenic memory CD4+ T cells, and intestinal natural killer cells and natural killer T cells. These findings partially phenocopy and extend the lymphocyte developmental disorder associated with the Gαi2−/− genotype, and suggest that the endocannabinoid system is required for the formation of T and B cell subsets involved in immune homeostasis. This noncompensatable requirement for physiologic function of the endocannabinoid system is novel. Because levels of endocannabinoids are highly restricted microanatomically, local regulation of their production and receptor expression offers a new principle for regional immune homeostasis and disease susceptibility, and extends and refines the rationale for CB2-targeted immunotherapy in immune and inflammatory diseases.
Bacterial air pollution from an activated sludge tank

Concentrations of air-borne coliforms and ‘other’ bacteria (defined as total bacteria minus coliforms) were measured. downwind of a sewage treatment plant activated sludge tank. The Gaussian plume diffusion equation adequately predicts concentrations of the ‘other’ bacteria; the diffusion equation must be modified by an extinction coefficient, equivalent to a half-life of about 7.4 s, to predict coliform concentrations. Coliform concentrations downwind of this tank did not present a significant health hazard, but the method is applicable to treatment plants of higher capacity and possibly greater emissions.
Branch banking in the year 2000

Abstract The topic of branch banking in the United States in the year 2000 is obviously one that has been in the minds of California bankers for some time because California is the largest state in the United States to permit virtually unlimited statewide branch banking. It is a topic that must also be in the minds of a large number of European and Asian bankers as well because several non-U.S. banking systems have already established large branch networks in the United States. It is a difficult topic because no one knows precisely what will be the status of branch banking in the year 1990, let alone the year 2000. This article makes some predictions.
Reevaluation of cell surface protein release at fertilization and its role in regulation of sea urchin egg protein synthesis

Abstract We have reexamined conditions for release of labeled cell surface proteins from sea urchin eggs and the effects of exogenous cell surface protein on the status of protein synthesis in activated eggs. As reported earlier ( J. D. Johnson and D. Epel, 1975, Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. USA 72, 4474–4478 ), we find insemination and the Ca-ionophore A23187 induce release of labeled cell surface polypeptides but in contrast to that report we do not observe increased release during incubation in ammonia or nicotine. Electrophoretic analysis of the 125 I-labeled polypeptides released after insemination indicates that the cell surface protein fraction contains a minimum of 10 polypeptides ranging from 22,000 to 200,000 daltons. In five experiments, the cell surface proteins released during the ammonia incubation had no significant effect on the status of protein synthesis in partially activated eggs.
Molecular evolution of the synapsin gene family.

Synapsins, a family of synaptic vesicle proteins, play a crucial role in the regulation of neurotransmission and synaptogenesis. They have been identified in a variety of invertebrate and vertebrate species, including human, rat (Rattus norvegicus), cow (Bos taurus), longfin squid (Loligo pealei), and fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster). Here, synapsins were cloned from three additional species: frog (Xenopus laevis), lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis), and nematode (Caenorhabditis elegans). Synapsin protein sequences from all these species were then used to explore the molecular phylogeny of these important neuronal phosphoproteins. The ancestral condition of a single synapsin gene probably gave rise to the vertebrate synapsin gene family comprised of at least three synapsin genes (I, II, and III) in higher vertebrates. Synapsins possess multiple domains, which have evolved at different rates throughout evolution. In invertebrate synapsins, the most conserved domains are C and E. During the evolution of vertebrates, at least two gene duplication events are hypothesized to have given rise to the synapsin gene family. This was accompanied by the emergence of an additional conserved domain, termed A. J. Exp. Zool. ( Mol. Dev. Evol. ) 285:360–377, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Potential and limitations in using the global vegetation index data set for monitoring the interannual variability of the earth's biosphere

Abstract An interannual comparison of satellite-derived surface parameters is usually complicated by the high level of noise in the temporal and spatial averages. In addition to the residual cloud contamination which remains after application of cloud masks and compositing procedures, the major factor introducing this noise is the angular dependence of the observed radiances. The present study uses a long-term Global Vegetation Index (GVI) data set to demonstrate how application of an additional cloud screening and bidirectional correction can improve the original NOAA CVI product. The variability in the NDVI is reduced substantially which increases the statistical significance of the apparent interannual changes in the biosphere. Trends in the observations due to the combined effect of orbital and sensor degradations are discussed. The long-term change in the observed reflectances is strongly dependent upon the viewing geometry of the observations. At nadir and in the forward scatter direction, the effects of illumination and sensor sensitivity change are additive whereas in the backscatter directions these effects are mutually compensating.
Voice gains following thyroplasty may improve over time1

Type I thyroplasty for unilateral vocal fold paralysis restores voice. The purpose of this study was to evaluate measures of voice before thyroplasty, and at 3 months and 1 year after surgery. Of interest was whether vocal improvement in the first weeks after surgery was maintained or even enhanced over time. A total of 40 patients with unilateral paralysis underwent type I thyroplasty with or without arytenoid adduction. Perceptual, acoustic and aerodynamic measures of voice were studied. Perceptual analysis determined that optimal postoperative voice quality evolved over the first year. Acoustic indices of perturbation demonstrated progressive improvement over 12 months, whereas pitch and intensity ranges were increasingly extended. Postoperative glottal flow rates were normalized and phonation times were significantly longer, with benefits maintained over time. All perceptual, aerodynamic and acoustic measures of voice were improved 3 months after thyroplasty, with many measures further improved at 1 year. Such findings provide evidence that voice outcome progressively evolves over the first 12 months after surgery.
Inhibiting effect of some antimalarial substances on glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase.

COMPOUNDS with antimalarial activity are used as therapeutic agents in a number of disorders other than malarial infections. Our dermatological interest in these substances is two-fold. First, they are specific therapeutics for a number of autoimmune disorders with cutaneous manifestations1 and, second, the use of these substances in malarial therapy or prophylaxis often causes adverse cutaneous side effects1.
Ultra broad band Fourier domain mode locked swept source based on dual SOAs and WDM couplers

A high-speed, ultra-broad band wavelength swept source based on Fourier domain mode-locking (FDML) technique was demonstrated. Two semiconductor optical amplifiers were used as the gain media. The laser is capable of FWHM tuning range of more than 180 nm and the edge-to-edge scanning range of more than 220 nm at 100 kHz sweeping rate. With the built swept source, an ultra high resolution high speed FDOCT system was developed which can achieve axial resolution of 3 μm in tissue. Imaging of rabbit trachea was demonstrated with the FDOCT system.
International teacher professional development: teacher reflections of authentic teaching and learning experiences

The article examines 21 biliteracy teachers who studied and taught in schools through an eight‐week in‐service professional development program with indigenous children in the state of Altacomulco, Mexico. In the process of documenting their international teaching experiences, a study was conducted to ascertain biliteracy teachers' development of their teaching ideology as a result of their participation and critical reflection, using Spanish as the primary mode of instruction. Five themes are discussed: globally minded teachers; linguistic and culturally relevant curriculum; passionate pedagogy (amorosidad); community authentic engagement; and political and ideological clarity.
An RGA – like marker detects all known Lr21 leaf rust resistance gene family members in Aegilops tauschii and wheat

Leaf rust is one of the most important diseases of wheat worldwide, particularly in the Great Plains region of the USA. One long-term strategy for the control of this disease may be through durable genetic resistance by gene pyramiding. An important step in this strategy is identifying molecular markers linked to different leaf rust-resistance genes. Here we report the molecular tagging of a leaf rust-resistance gene that may have the potential for durable resistance through further genetic manipulation and gene pyramiding. Lr39 was previously designated for a leaf rust-resistance gene introgressed from Aegilops tauschii accession TA1675 into the common wheat germplasm WGRC2. Lr40 was designated for a gene derived from Ae. tauschii accession TA1649 and is present in germplasm WGRC7. These genes are now believed to be allelic to Lr21, which was transferred to wheat from a different accession of Ae. tauschii. Molecular mapping of Lr39 and Lr40 indicates that both genes come from TA1649. WGRC2 and WRGC7 also have a similar infection type against rust culture PRTUS6. We suggest the designation of the gene in WGRC2 should be changed to Lr40. RFLP marker KSUD14 (locus Xksud14) was found 0.2-cM proximal to Lr40 in a WGRC2/Wichita F2 population (218 individuals), and co-segregated with the gene in a WGRC7/ Wichita F2 population (165 individuals). A PCR-based molecular marker developed from the sequence-tagged-site (STS) of Xksud14 was mapped to the same locus as the RFLP marker KSUD14 in both populations. KSUD14 has the structure of a resistance gene analog (RGA) including kinase2a and kinase3 domains similar to the Cre3 gene of wheat and the rust resistance gene Rp1-D of maize. When the PCR products amplified from KSU14 STS were cleaved with restriction enzyme MspI, an 885-bp fragment was found in WGRC2, WGRC7, the Lr21 near-isogenic line, and eight accessions of Ae. tauschii shown to have resistance gene alleles at the Lr21 locus. The KSUD14 PCR-based assay provides an excellent marker for Lr40 and Lr21 in diverse wheat breeding and wild Ae. tauschii populations.
Computerized Neurocognitive Test Performance in Schizophrenia: A Lifespan Analysis

Objective Computerized neurocognitive batteries based on advanced behavioral neuroscience methods are increasingly used in large-scale clinical and genomic studies. Favorable construct validity in younger schizophrenia patients has been reported, but not in older patients. New variables afforded by computerized assessments were used to clarify age-associated cognitive impairment across the lifespan. Methods 624 patients with schizophrenia and 624 healthy comparison (HC) subjects age 16–75 completed a 1–2-hour computerized neurocognitive battery (CNB) that assessed abstraction and mental flexibility, attention, working memory, recognition memory (verbal, facial, spatial), language, visuospatial, and emotion processing. Linear mixed effects models tested for group differences in accuracy, response time, and efficiency scores. Contrasts were stratified by age. Results 91% of older (45+) and 94% of younger ( Conclusions Computerized assessments are feasible in large cohorts of schizophrenia patients. There is stable and generalized neurocognitive dysfunction across the lifespan in schizophrenia, albeit with fewer differences in some domains between older patients and HC after age 60. Speed-accuracy tradeoff strategies suggest deceleration of some frontal networks and improvements in speed of emotional processing.
What Is the Value of Social Science? Challenges for Researchers and Government Funders

It is a great honor to have been invited to deliver the Ithiel de Sola Pool lecture. Professor de Sola Pool had a tremendous influence on scholarship and practice. His work describes the ways in which evolving technologies fundamentally alter communicative expectations and social outcomes. Years after their publication, works such as Technologies of Freedom (1984) continue to provide insight about how the networked communications are changing the world. Professor de Sola Pool's work is of great public value. In what follows, I want to focus our attention on the value of social science today.
Effect of Doxazosin on Arterial Elasticity: Functional versus Structural Changes

Drugs and diseases have differential effects on functional and structural components of large-conduit arteries and smaller vessels. The objective of this study was to demonstrate functional and structural effects of doxazosin (DOX) on largevessel and small-vessel arterial elasticity in hypertension (HTN). This was an open-label, single-blind, active-therapy study. Patients with stage 1 to 2 HTN were administered DOX 2 mg/day for 3 months and 4 mg/day for 1 month, if indicated, followed by 2-week washout period. Arterial elasticity was measured noninvasively at baseline, at 3 months and 4 months of treatment, and 2 weeks following DOX withdrawal. Although the observed effects were not statistically significant, large-vessel elasticity (C1) increased in a dose-related manner and returned to baseline 2 weeks after drug withdrawal. There was a trend toward an increase in small-vessel elasticity in a dose-related manner. However, 2 weeks after drug withdrawal, C2 (distal elasticity) had not returned to baseline and was statistically significantly different from baseline (p = 0.032). It was concluded that large-artery compliance increased in a dose-related manner. Almost all benefit was lost within 2 weeks of discontinuation, suggesting the DOX effect was functional. Small-artery compliance improved in a dose-related manner but only partially returned to baseline after DOX withdrawal, suggesting changes in artery structure by DOX.
Improving the performance of k-means for color quantization

Color quantization is an important operation with many applications in graphics and image processing. Most quantization methods are essentially based on data clustering algorithms. However, despite its popularity as a general purpose clustering algorithm, k-means has not received much respect in the color quantization literature because of its high computational requirements and sensitivity to initialization. In this paper, we investigate the performance of k-means as a color quantizer. We implement fast and exact variants of k-means with several initialization schemes and then compare the resulting quantizers to some of the most popular quantizers in the literature. Experiments on a diverse set of images demonstrate that an efficient implementation of k-means with an appropriate initialization strategy can in fact serve as a very effective color quantizer.
A homotopy method applied to elastica problems

Abstract The inverse problem in nonlinear (incompressible) elastica theory, where the end positions and inclinations rather than the forces and moment are specified, is considered. Based on the globally convergent Chow-Yorke algorithm, a new homotopy method which is simple, accurate, stable, and efficient is developed. For comparison, numerical results of some other simple approaches (e.g. Newton's method based on shooting or finite differences, standard embedding) are presented. The new homotopy method does not require a good initial estimate, and is guaranteed to have no singular points. The homotopy method is applied to the problem of a circular elastica ring subjected to N symmetrical point loads, and numerical results are given for N = 2,3,4.
Finding smooth integers in short intervals using CRT decoding

We present a new algorithm for CRT list decoding. An instance of the, CRT list decoding problem consists of integers B, 〈p1, ..., pn〉 and 〈r1, ..., rn〉, where p1 n/3. The bounds we obtain are similar to the bounds obtained by Guruswami and Sudan for Reed-Solomon list decoding. Hence, our algorithm reduces the gap between CRT list decoding and list decoding of Reed-Solomon codes. In addition, we give a new application for CRT list decoding: finding smooth integers in short intervals. Problems of this type come up in several algorithms for factoring large integers. We define and solve a generalized CRT list decoding problem and discuss how it might be used within the quadratic sieve factoring method.
Special Elections to the U.S. House of Representatives: A General Election Barometer?

Vacancies in the U.S. House of Representatives are filled using special elections. These elections occur off the usual American electoral cycle, and their results are routinely portrayed by the American mass media as indications of what to expect in the next general election. We examined the predictive power of special elections results with respect to the general election outcomes for the U.S. House of Representatives from 1900 to 2008. We found that special elections that yield a change in partisan control do have predictive power regarding general election results.
Thin films of hard cubic Zr3N4 stabilized by stress

Hard, refractory thin films consisting of group IVB element mono-nitrides deposited using various chemical and physical vapour-deposition techniques are widely used in wear-resistant applications. As the demand for performance exceeds the capabilities of existing materials, new materials with superior properties must be developed. Here we report the realization and characterization of hard cubic Zr3N4 (c-Zr3N4) thin films. The films, deposited using a novel but industrially viable modified filtered cathodic arc (FCA) method, undergo a phase transformation from orthorhombic to cubic above a critical stress level of 9 GPa as determined by X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. The c-Zr3N4 films are significantly harder (approximately 36 GPa) than both the orthorhombic Zr3N4 (o-Zr3N4) and ZrN films (approximately 27 GPa). The ability to deposit this material directly onto components as a thin film will allow its use in wear- and oxidation-resistant applications.
Inclusion of dynamics in the ion-metal surface interaction. I

Abstract By identifying the self-energy of an ion in the presence of a semi-infinite metal as the ion-metal effective interaction, we obtain a quantum description of this interaction, which takes into account the dynamics of the metal, and which is therefore both non-local and retarded. Since a metal is characterized by the existence of excitations having energy arbitrarily close to zero, it is not obvious that an ion far outside a metal sees only the image force. We show in general that the ion self-energy reduces to the image potential far outside the metal if the ion is infinitely massive, i.e., in the classical limit. Our analysis provides a foundation for the calculation of corrections to the image potential for an ion of finite mass and velocity at arbitrary positions relative to a metal surface. In particular the response of a finite metal to an external charged particle can be decomposed into surface and bulk contributions.
Variability in Human Cone Topography Assessed by Adaptive Optics Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscopy.

Purpose To assess between- and within-individual variability of macular cone topography in the eyes of young adults. Design Observational case series. Methods Cone photoreceptors in 40 eyes of 20 subjects aged 19–29 years with normal maculae were imaged using a research adaptive optics scanning laser ophthalmoscope. Refractive errors ranged from −3.0 diopters (D) to 0.63 D and differed by Results Peak densities of foveal cones are 168 162 ± 23 529 cones/mm 2 (mean ± SD) (COV = 0.14). The number of cones within the cone-dominated foveola (0.8–0.9 mm diameter) is 38 311 ± 2319 (COV = 0.06). The RMS cone density difference between fellow eyes is 6.78%, and the maximum difference is 23.6%. Mixed-model statistical analysis found no difference in the association between eccentricity and cone density in the superior/nasal ( P = .8503), superior/temporal ( P = .1551), inferior/nasal ( P = .8609), and inferior/temporal ( P = .6662) quadrants of fellow eyes. Conclusions New instrumentation imaged the smallest foveal cones, thus allowing accurate assignment of foveal centers and assessment of variability in macular cone density in a large sample of eyes. Though cone densities vary significantly in the fovea, the total numbers of foveolar cones are very similar both between and within subjects. Thus, the total number of foveolar cones may be an important measure of cone degeneration and loss.
Mechanical property characterization of carbon nanotube modified polymeric nanocomposites by computer modeling

Abstract This paper reports a two-step modeling approach for predicting the effective mechanical properties of polymeric nanocomposites modified with single walled carbon nanotube (SWNT). In step one, the nano-heterostructures of the nanocomposites were represented by 3-D nanoscale cylindrical, square, or hexagonal prismatic representative volume elements (RVEs). Each RVE contained a long or a short carbon nanotube (CNT) and consisted of three phases, i.e., CNT, matrix, and interphase. The mechanical properties of each RVE were extracted from the modeling results of the RVE undergone three load tests, i.e., uniaxial tensile test, lateral expansion test, and axial torsional test, using appropriately derived formulae. The effects of the volume fraction of CNTs on the mechanical properties of the RVEs were studied. The equivalent mechanical properties of the nano-heterostructures were obtained by averaging the mechanical properties extracted from each RVE. In step two, micro/macroscale nanocomposites were represented by a 3-D microscale unit cell which was discretized into cubic elements. Using Monte Carlo method, each element was assigned the averaged mechanical properties of the RVEs with random CNT orientation and length type. The overall effective mechanical properties of the nanocomposites were predicted by a tensile test on the unit cell. The modeling results by this proposed approach was compared with and validated by the experimental data of the SWNT modified epoxy nanocomposites.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SELF-ACTUALIZATION AND ASSERTIVENESS IN MALES AND FEMALES

The relationship between self-actualization (psychological health) and assertiveness was investigated in a sample of college students, 69 males and 151 females. Analysis indicated a moderately high...
Higher education in transition: An international perspective

We are proud to number C. Arnold Anderson amongst the members of our Editorial Advisory Board. The world of higher education which owes so much to this distinguished scholar was glad to learn that the University of Stockholm had decided to award him an honorary degree. The ceremony took place on May 24th 1978 which was also the centennial of Stockholm University and on that occasion C. Arnold Anderson gave the response on behalf of the honorary graduands in the form of a Jubilee lecture which is printed below.
The phenomenological description of a relativistic three-particle emission

A relativistic, phenomenological analysis of an arbitrary three-particle emission is made consistent with energy, momentum, and angular momentum conservation. The analysis parallels the general approach to the calculation of a decay rate from an interaction matrix with the unknown matrix elements serving as the arbitrary expansion coefficrents. In this manner, the Lorentz invariants of the problem are easily traced. The result is specialized to a localized interaction for an emission of three spin one-half particles. It is shown that, in order to be consistent with Lorentz invariance, the emission must necessarily involve correlations between the momenta of the emitted particles. In the limit of three massless emitted particles, the most general energy spectrum for one of the product particles is calculated. The spectrum thus obtained is identical in form to the parametrized Michel spectra for the electron in muon decay, demonstrating that the Michel spectra have a fundamental origin. It is also shown that merely the added assumption of specific helicities for the emitted particles leads to results for muon decay identical to those obtained from the V- A law. (auth)
Structural Characteristics of Nanocomposites Fabricated With In-Situ Particle Synthesis Method

In this article we discuss fabrication of nanocomposites using an in-situ particle synthesis method. The nanocomposites discussed were prepared with solution based chemistry using a particle precursor mixture, which produces the nanoparticles. The nanocomposites presented were synthesized with titanium dioxide nanoparticles. The efforts of Oak Ridge National Laboratory to deliver better electrical insulation materials using nanotechnology are presented.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Developmental profile of plasma inhibin and gonadotropins from hatch to sexual maturity in male and female chickens.

The posthatch profiles of plasma immunoreactive inhibin and gonadotropins (FSH and LH) were examined in male and female chickens. Blood samples were collected and hormones were measured by radioimmunoassay at biweekly intervals from Week 1 through Week 19 (Week 21 in females) posthatch. Immunoreactive inhibin was elevated (P< 0.01) in males between Weeks 7 and 15. In contrast, immunoreactive inhibin was significantly elevated (P< 0.001) in females at 17 and 19 weeks compared to earlier time points. There was no significant difference in FSH level between males and females. Both sexes showed a significant (P< 0.01) rise in FSH during development. Males had significantly higher levels of LH compared to females. While there was no change in LH throughout 19 weeks in females, plasma LH was significantly elevated in males at 7, 11, 13, and 15 weeks. Results suggest that a negative relationship between inhibin and FSH may be established in females, in contrast to males, at the onset of puberty.
Voltage-tunable piezoelectrically-transduced single-crystal silicon micromechanical resonators

Abstract This paper reports on a new class of high-Q single-crystal silicon (SCS) resonators that are piezoelectrically actuated and sensed, and have voltage-tunable center frequencies. The resonating element is made out of the SCS device layer of a SOI wafer. In a unique manner, piezoelectric transduction was integrated with capacitive fine-tuning of the resonator center frequencies to compensate for any process variations. Quality factor as high as 6200 was measured for the 1.7 MHz first resonance mode of a clamped–clamped beam resonator in 50 mTorr vacuum. Higher order modes of the fabricated resonators were also successfully actuated and demonstrated quality factors larger than 2000 (under vacuum) at frequencies approaching 17 MHz. A 6 kHz tuning range was measured for a 719 kHz resonator by applying a dc voltage in the range of 0–20 V.
Applications of Laser Capture Microdissection in the Study of Neurodegenerative Disease

Laser capture microdissection (LCM) is a new technology that is becoming increasingly important for studies of neurodegenerative disorders. A characteristic feature of all neurodegenerative diseases is “selective vulnerability.” In each of the disorders, there is selective degeneration of particular types of neurons, with relative preservation of much of the rest of the brain. Familiar examples are the selective degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson disease, the striking depletion of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons in Alzheimer disease, the selective atrophy of the caudate nucleus in Huntington disease, and the loss of spinal motor neurons in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Closer examination reveals an even more finegrained pattern of neuronal injury. For example, in Parkinson disease there is striking depletion of dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tier of the substantia nigra pars compacta, with very little injurytodopaminergicneuronslocatedonlyafewmillimetersawayinthedorsaltierofthenucleus. In Huntington disease, there is an exquisite degree of selectivity among the different types of neurons found within the caudate and putamen, with striking depletion of the medium spiny projection neurons, especially those projecting to the globus pallidus, in contrast to preservation of the intermingled interneurons. These characteristic patterns of injury are evident even in genetically determined forms of neurodegenerative disease where the fundamental defect can be shown to be present in all neurons. Understanding the basis for these patterns of neuronal loss may provide important insight into the mechanisms of neurodegeneration. Selectivevulnerabilitycreatesdifficulttechnicalchallengesforinvestigatorsattempting to apply modern molecular methods to the study of disease. Many of the currentmethodsforanalyzingDNA,messengerRNA(mRNA)andproteinsrelyonhomogenization and extraction of the chemical elements of interest. Until recently,moststudiesofthisnaturehaverelied on studies of anatomical regions at least several millimeters in size, and often much larger. These areas are large enough that they unavoidably encompass both affected and unaffected neuronal populations. They also include a large component of glial structures, which may have their own distinct role in and responsetoneurodegeneration.Thedataobtained by homogenization of such heterogeneous samples are often difficult to reconcile with alterations in the biology ofspecificpopulationsofcomponentcells. Researchers can use LCM as an accessible method for separating the different cell types present in a brain region, and are able to study the biology of homogeneous cell populations with specific characteristics.
Immigration and Net Migration in New York City 1980–90

The relationship between immigration and the net migration of the native-born is an important component of the overall impact of immigration. Prior analyses of cross-sectional state and Metropolitan Statistical Area data suggest that a negative relationship exists, particularly among those with relatively little education. At the national level, much attention has been paid to the potential ethnic segregation of the population as primarily non-White immigrants displace primarily White native-born residents from certain areas, but there are important state and local policy issues as well, as this population shift has potentially significant implications for demand for municipal services and school enrollment. Yet until now, there has been no attempt to examine this relationship for a particular metro area. This article provides some preliminary estimates of the relationship between immigration and the migration of the native-born in New York City between 1980 and 1990 using a census survival methodology and zip code-level data. Initial results suggest a statistically significant negative relationship between immigration and net migration of the native-born. The policy implications of this phenomenon are discussed briefly.
On Microwave-Induced Hearing Sensation

When a human subject is exposed to pulsed microwave radiation, an audible sound occurs which appears to originate from within or immediately behind the head. Laboratory studies have also indicated that evoked auditory activities may be recorded from cats, chinchillas, and guinea pigs. Using a spherical model of the head, this paper analyzes a process by which microwave energy may cause the observed effect. The problem is formulated in terms of thermoelasticity theory in which the absorbed microwave energy represents the volume heat source which depends on both space and time. The inhomogeneous thermoplastic motion equation is solved for the acoustic wave parameters under stress-free surface conditions using boundary value technique and Duhamel's theorem. Numerical results show that the predicted frequencies of vibration and threshold pressure amplitude agree reasonably well with experimental findings.
Silicon Nitride Containing Rare Earth Silicate Intergranular Phases

Si[sub 3]N[sub 4] ceramics prepared with refractory grain boundary phases to improve high temperature properties are difficult to density by conventional sintering methods. Gas-pressure sintering may be used to promote densification and development of acicular grains for improved fracture toughness. The current study examined rare earth silicate sintering aids with the composition M[sub 2]Si[sub 2]O[sub 7], where M is a trivalent cation (Y, La, Nd). M[sub 2]O[sub 3] and SiO[sub 2] additions were varied to develop a number of compositions in the Si[sub 3]N[sub 4]-Si[sub 2]N[sub 2]O-M[sub 2]Si[sub 2]O[sub 7] ternary phase field. Pressureless sintering and gas-pressure sintering were used to density the samples. Densification, microstructure development, oxidation resistance, and mechanical properties were evaluated and compared with respect to compositional variations and processing conditions.
Diagnostic strategies for nosocomial pneumonia

Purpose of review This review describes advances in clinical and microbiological modalities for diagnosis of nosocomial pneumonia and the role of biological markers. Recent findings Serial assessments with the clinical pulmonary infection score identifies nonsurvivors and allows discontinuation of antibiotics when there is low suspicion of pneumonia. Studies evaluating its clinical utility show mixed results. A meta-analysis revealed that an invasive approach does not affect mortality but reduces costs, antibiotic exposure, and multidrug resistance. In contrast to these findings, a recent trial comparing nonquantitative endotracheal aspirate and quantitative bronchoalveolar lavage cultures showed similar clinical outcomes and antibiotic utilization. The role of quantitative endotracheal aspirate for diagnosis of pneumonia not related to mechanical ventilation was recently evaluated. Procalcitonin and soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 aid in diagnosis, identify sepsis related to ventilator-associated pneumonia and patients with worst outcomes. Summary The diagnostic modality chosen depends on availability, personnel experience, and the patient's clinical status. Recent guidelines support the use of quantitative cultures in an integrated clinical and microbiological algorithm. The decision to adjust antibiotics involves clinical reassessment and interpretation of culture results. Biological markers have a potential role as screening and prognostic tools.
Total synthesis of diazonamide A

A total synthesis of the marine natural product diazonamide A (1) has been accomplished. This work features a highly stereoselective synthesis of the C(10) quaternary center and the central furanoindoline core enabled by an iminium-catalyzed alkylation–cyclization cascade. Additionally, a magnesium-mediated intramolecular macroaldolization and a palladium-catalyzed tandem borylation/annulation were developed to enable the closure of the two 12-membered macrocycles of diazonamide A. This synthesis involves 20 steps in its longest linear sequence and proceeds in 1.8% overall yield.
Distinct Fcγ Receptors Mediate the Effect of Serum Amyloid P on Neutrophil Adhesion and Fibrocyte Differentiation

The plasma protein serum amyloid P (SAP) reduces neutrophil adhesion, inhibits the differentiation of monocytes into fibroblast-like cells called fibrocytes, and promotes phagocytosis of cell debris by macrophages. Together, these effects of SAP reduce key aspects of inflammation and fibrosis, and SAP injections improve lung function in pulmonary fibrosis patients. SAP functions are mediated, in part, by FcγRs, but the contribution of each FcγR is not fully understood. We found that aa Q55 and E126 in human SAP affect human fibrocyte differentiation and SAP binding to FcγRI. E126, K130, and Q128 affect neutrophil adhesion and SAP affinity for FcγRIIa. Q128 also affects phagocytosis by macrophages and SAP affinity for FcγRI. All the identified functionally significant amino acids in SAP form a binding site that is distinct from the previously described SAP-FcγRIIa binding site. Blocking FcγRI with an IgG-blocking Ab reduces the SAP effect on fibrocyte differentiation, and ligating FcγRIIa with Abs reduces neutrophil adhesion. Together, these results suggest that SAP binds to FcγRI on monocytes to inhibit fibrocyte differentiation, and binds to FcγRIIa on neutrophils to reduce neutrophil adhesion.
Total Synthesis of (±)-Bisnorargemonine

(±)-Bisnorargemonine (I) was synthesized by two alternate but similar routes, differing only in the relative positions of the methoxy and benzyloxy groups on the aromatic rings of the 1-benzylisoquinoline-derived moieties. Both the standard Bischler-Napieralski procedure and the Pictet-Gams modification were employed in the construction of the needed isoquinoline intermediates. Conversion of the latter to the methiodide followed by partial reduction to the N-methyl-1,2-dihydro form and, finally, acid-catalyzed cyclization provided (±)-I, which was identical with natural (-)-I except for melting point and optical rotatory power.
Transthoracic Incremental Monophasic Versus Biphasic Defibrillation by Emergency Responders (TIMBER) A Randomized Comparison of Monophasic With Biphasic Waveform Ascending Energy Defibrillation for the Resuscitation of Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest due to Ventricular Fibrillation

Background—Although biphasic, as compared with monophasic, waveform defibrillation for cardiac arrest is increasing in use and popularity, whether it is truly a more lifesaving waveform is unproven. Methods and Results—Consecutive adults with nontraumatic out-of-hospital ventricular fibrillation cardiac arrest were randomly allocated to defibrillation according to the waveform from automated external defibrillators administered by prehospital medical providers. The primary event of interest was admission alive to the hospital. Secondary events included return of rhythm and circulation, survival, and neurological outcome. Providers were blinded to automated defibrillator waveform. Of 168 randomized patients, 80 (48%) and 68 (40%) consistently received only monophasic or biphasic waveform shocks, respectively, throughout resuscitation. The prevalence of ventricular fibrillation, asystole, or organized rhythms at 5, 10, or 20 seconds after each shock did not differ significantly between treatment groups. The proportion of patients admitted alive to the hospital was relatively high: 73% in monophasic and 76% in biphasic treatment groups (P0.58). Several favorable trends were consistently associated with receipt of biphasic waveform shock, none of which reached statistical significance. Notably, 27 of 80 monophasic shock recipients (34%), compared with 28 of 68 biphasic shock recipients (41%), survived (P0.35). Neurological outcome was similar in both treatment groups (P0.4). Earlier administration of shock did not significantly alter the performance of one waveform relative to the other, nor did shock waveform predict any clinical outcome after multivariate adjustment. Conclusions—No statistically significant differences in outcome could be ascribed to use of one waveform over another when out-of-hospital ventricular fibrillation was treated. (Circulation. 2006;114:2010-2018.)
Laser–Recrystallized SOI Devices: Promises and Pitfalls

Recrystallized SOI structures offer possibilities for new classes of devices, as well as improved performance of more conventional circuitry. Single-layer and multilayer circuits are possible. For large-geometry devices unseeded films should be satisfactory, but seeding will be required for high-performance, small-geometry circuits. In addition to the quality of the recrystallized film and the substrate, the properties of the interfaces must be optimized. The characteristics of each potential heat source must be considered when selecting one for a specific SOI structure; different sources will be optimum for different applications. The evolution of SOI device structures can be seen by considering different realizations of CMOS cells. SOI structures can be applied to conventional circuits and also should allow efficient integration of entire systems with closely interacting functions.
Studies of cobalt-mediated electrocatalytic CO2 reduction using a redox-active ligand.

The cobalt complex [CoIIIN4H(Br)2]+ (N4H = 2,12-dimethyl-3,7,11,17-tetraazabicyclo-[11.3.1]-heptadeca-1(7),2,11,13,15-pentaene) was used for electrocatalytic CO2 reduction in wet MeCN with a glassy carbon working electrode. When water was employed as the proton source (10 M in MeCN), CO was produced (fCO= 45% ± 6.4) near the CoI/0 redox couple for [CoIIIN4H(Br)2]+ (E1/2 = −1.88 V FeCp2+/0) with simultaneous H2 evolution (fH2= 30% ± 7.8). Moreover, we successfully demonstrated that the catalytically active species is homogeneous through the use of control experiments and XPS studies of the working glassy-carbon electrodes. As determined by cyclic voltammetry, CO2 catalysis occurred near the formal CoI/0redox couple, and attempts were made to isolate the triply reduced compound (“[Co0N4H]”). Instead, the doubly reduced (“CoI”) compounds [CoN4] and [CoN4H(MeCN)]+ were isolated and characterized by X-ray crystallography. Their molecular structures prompted DFT studies to illuminate details regarding their ele...
Dietary Supplements for Cholesterol Management

Dietary supplements are widely marketed and available to health-care consumers who wish to lower their cholesterol levels. As dietary supplements are not considered drugs, there is a lack of regulation in their production and also a deficiency of appropriately designed trials demonstrating their efficacy and safety when used alone or in combination with prescription medications. However, using supplements in place of or in addition to prescribed cholesterol-lowering therapies may be more aligned with the patient’s value system or health-care philosophy. Dietary supplements, such as red yeast rice (RYR), have been shown to have the same mode of action as prescription cholesterol-lowering therapies like 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors. While others, like soluble dietary fiber (SDF), have multiple proposed modes of action. Reasonable data exist to support the use of dietary supplements—in addition to lifestyle modification—as an alternative, or add-on therapy, in those who are unable or unwilling to take conventional lipid-lowering agents.
Evaluation of occupational disease control in one coal firm in Shaanxi

Objective:Occupational health investigation at the scene,occupational hazards in the workplace factors scene detection and laboratory analysis,and lists checking and comparing.Methods:To make a comprehensive evaluation.Results:The project′s construction site with the overall layout;production equipment layout,occupational protective equipment,the use of personal protective equipment,occupational health and management are all in line with the state laws and regulations.Major occupational hazards in the production process: dust,chemical poisons,noise.Conclusion:The occupational hazard for construction projects control is basically qualified,but dust,reducing noise facilities still need to be further improved.
Cervicomedullary Cord Compression in Young Children with Achondroplasia: Value of Comprehensive Neurologic and Respiratory Evaluation

While the majority of individuals with achondroplasia have few serious complications, affected infants and children are at risk for both respiratory and neurologic complications due to certain anatomic characteristics of the disorder (1–3). In the young child, the ribs are short and straight, causing a constricted thoracic cage with a flattened anteroposterior diameter. Dysplasia of the cranial base and upper cervical spine result in a shortened and narrowed nasopharynx as well as a constricted craniocervical junction (Fig. 1). Both restrictive lung disease and obstructive sleep apnea have been documented in young children with achondroplasia (3,4). Compression of the upper cervical spinal cord and distal medulla because of a stenotic foramen magnum is well documented as a cause of quadriplegia in achondroplasia (5), but has been recently reemphasized as a cause of respiratory compromise, apnea and sudden death in infants with the disorder (6). Compression of the anterior spinal artery, traction on the medullary respiratory center and paresis of respiratory muscles have each been suggested as causes of hypoventilation in infants with cervicomedullary compression (5,6). Some young patients with documented cord compression have had findings suggesting a chronic respiratory disorder, such as right ventricular hypertrophy, but have had few, if any, upper motor neuron signs (1). Because both primary and neurogenic respiratory problems may coexist, interpretation of respiratory problems in a given patient is difficult, especially when there are few neurologic signs. We hypothesized that respiratory problems in some achondroplastic infants and children might be due to occult cervicomedullary compression, and that some patients with signs of compression might have occult respiratory abnormalities. We therefore undertook a prospective clinical study to evaluate achondroplastic infants and children for both respiratory and neurologic abnormalities.
Osteopenia in hypoestrogenic young women with anorexia nervosa

Replacement estrogen therapy for premenopausal women with secondary hypogonadism (exercise/weight loss amenorrheas) remains controversial. In a group of 14 women with anorexia nervosa, amenorrhea, and no evidence of other endocrinopathy or protein-calorie malnutrition, significant osteopenia was demonstrated as assessed by cortical thickness of carpal bones. The degree of bone thinning was related to the duration and age at onset of amenorrhea as well as abnormalities of pubertal milestone progression. In the young women with "constitutionally delayed" menarche, or with secondary amenorrhea and hypogonadism, significant osteopenia may also be present. For those women with (1) hypoestrogenism and amenorrhea of over 36 months' duration, (2) pubertal delay, and (3) early onset of secondary amenorrhea, evaluation of osteopenia radiographically, and serious consideration for estrogen replacement, is important.