cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Running MAP inference on million node graphical models: a high performance computing perspective

An important problem in discrete graphical models is the maximum a posteriori (MAP) inference problem. Recent research has been focusing on the development of parallel MAP inference algorithm, which scales to graphical models of millions of nodes. In this paper, we introduce a parallel implementation of the recently proposed Bethe-ADMM algorithm using Message Passing Interface (MPI), which allows us to fully utilize the computing power provided by the modern supercomputers with thousands of cores. Experimental results demonstrate that for a broad class of problems, our parallel implementation of Bethe-ADMM scales almost linearly even with thousands of cores.
Sequence-based analysis of stutter at STR loci: Characterization and utility

Abstract The development of next generation sequencing (NGS) technologies creates the potential for changing the method by which the forensic science community genotypes short tandem repeat (STR) loci. While the capabilities of NGS are promising, moving from current capillary electrophoresis (CE) methods would require new guidelines to be established and a new understanding of artifacts that may arise with the use of NGS. Stutter has been well characterized for CE technologies; however, NGS workflows may use different polymerases and amplification approaches, which could alter the appearance of this artifact. Stutter is most commonly seen in the n -4 position in CE data, but may be observed more rarely in the n +4 and n -8 positions. NGS data frequently contains detectable sequences consistent with stutter at the n +4 and n -8 positions, and may even contain stutter at the n -12 position for some loci. It is possible that these alternate types of stutter events occur at similar levels in CE workflows and go undetected due to the analytical threshold employed or because the artifacts do not exceed the background noise. Comparing stutter events in NGS data to what has been observed by CE will improve our understanding of the effects of library preparation and sequencing. Characterizing stutter events by sequence will contribute to the development of guidelines and facilitate implementation of NGS technology. Further, determining stutter ratios for each isoallele would allow for individual sequence thresholds to be set, which could then be used to improve mixture interpretation models.
A model for cognitive-behavioral interventions in cancer pain management.

Purpose: To propose a model for predicting success with cognitive-behavioral interventions in cancer pain management. Practice guidelines are useful, however nurses currently have little theoretic or empiric basis for choosing one particular strategy over another. Moreover, nurses have no way of knowing if a particular intervention is likely to work. Organizing construct: The model indicates characteristics of a person in relation to interventions including skill and ability, outcome expectancies, perceived credibility, history of use, preferred coping style, and pain outcomes. Sources: The model was developed using sources identified through a literature search of relevant topics in MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Psychlit (1996-1997), as well as through clinical experience. Conclusions: Continued empiric testing of the model is necessary to confirm proposed relationships and to assess accuracy of the model's predictions with various cognitive-behavioral interventions. With this testing, the model can help nurses select appropriate interventions for individual patients.
No-carrier-added synthesis of [1-11C]pyruvic acid.

Abstract Carbon-11 labeled pyruvic acid has been prepared in no-carrier-added form by a new chemical synthesis based on the carboxylation of a masked acyl carbanion. The addition of 11 CO 2 to the lithium aldimine from methyllithium and 1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutylisocyanide yields the α-imino acid, which is then hydrolysed to the desired [1- 11 C]pyruvic acid. The synthesis yields 550–960 MBq of labeled pyruvic acid suitable for in vivo biological studies, with a total synthesis and purification time of 35–40 min.
Stock Simulation and Mutual Funds: A Pedagogical Tool for Faith-Based Investing and Interfaith Understanding

It is increasingly important to understand the fundamentals of investing and, for many, the ability to integrate faith and ethics with investing decisions. This is especially relevant for employees and students in Christian higher education. Most employees in Christian higher education are enrolled in retirement plans that obligate them to make investing decisions and the majority of students, with their first job after graduation, will be making investing decisions that will impact their future. Research indicates that young people lack financial skills, and consequently have given little or no consideration to integrating their faith with investing. This is also true for many working adults, including employees in Christian higher education, and for those that would like to integrate faith and ethics with investing there is often limited or no opportunity offered by their employers. This paper addresses these dynamics and discusses the following: (1) the biblical basis for and against investing for the ...
Carbon monoxide and bilirubin: potential therapies for pulmonary/vascular injury and disease.

Heme oxygenase (HO)-1, an inducible, low–molecular-weight stress protein, confers cellular and tissue protection in multiple models of injury and disease, including oxidative or inflammatory lung injury, ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injuries, and vascular injury/disease. The tissue protection provided by HO-1 potentially relates to the endogenous production of the end products of its enzymatic activity: namely, biliverdin (BV)/bilirubin (BR), carbon monoxide (CO), and iron. Of these, CO and BV/BR show promise as possible therapeutic agents when applied exogenously in models of lung or vascular injury. CO activates intracellular signaling pathways that involve soluble guanylate cyclase and/or p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase. Although toxic at elevated concentrations, low concentrations of CO can confer antiinflammatory, antiapoptotic, antiproliferative, and vasodilatory effects. BV and BR are natural antioxidants that can provide protection against oxidative stress in cell culture and in plasma. Application of BV or BR protects against I/R injury in several organ models. Recent evidence has also demonstrated antiinflammatory and antiproliferative properties of these pigments. To date, evidence has accumulated for salutary effects of CO, BV, and/or BR in lung/vascular injury models, as well as in models of transplant-associated I/R injury. Thus, the exogenous application of HO end products may provide an alternative to pharmacologic or gene therapy approaches to harness the therapeutic potential of HO-1.
Localization of the complement membrane attack complex inhibitor (CD59) in human conjunctiva and lacrimal gland

Recent studies have established that complement is present in the eye and participates in ocular defense. The mechanisms by which ocular tissues are protected from bystander injury arising from local activation of the cascade, however, have not been characterized. Decay accelerating factor (DAF or CD55) and the membrane inhibitor of reactive lysis (MIRL or CD59) are cell surface regulatory proteins that protect blood cells from uptake of autologous C3b and polymerization of autologous C9 on their surfaces. In previous studies, we found that DAF is expressed in high levels on corneal, conjunctival, and lacrimal gland acinar surfaces. In this study we assayed ocular and lacrimal gland tissues for CD59. Immunohistochemical analyses demonstrated large amounts of the protein the same locations. The presence of CD59 in these sites is consistent with the proposal that CD59 functions together with DAF in protecting ocular tissues from autologous complement-mediated injury.
Data classification through an evolutionary approach based on multiple criteria

Real-world problems usually present a huge volume of imprecise data. These types of problems may challenge case-based reasoning systems because the knowledge extracted from data is used to identify analogies and solve new problems. Many authors have focused on organizing case memory in patterns to minimize the computational burden and deal with uncertainty. The organization is usually determined by a single criterion, but in some problems, a single criterion can be insufficient to find accurate clusters. This work describes an approach to organize the case memory in patterns based on multiple criteria. This new approach uses the searching capabilities of multiobjective evolutionary algorithms to build a Pareto set of solutions, where each one is a possible organization based on the relevance of objectives. The system shows promising capabilities when it is compared with a successful system based on self-organizing maps. Due to the data set geometry influences, the clustering building process results are analyzed taking into account it. For this reason, some complexity measures are used to categorize data sets according to their topology.
Use-dependent effects of lidocaine on the upper limit of vulnerability in open chest dogs

Abstract Objectives . This study was performed to test the hypothesis that sodium channel activity is important in determining ventricular vulnerability to electric shocks. Background . It is unknown whether sodium channel activity determines the upper limit of vulnerability. Methods . The ventricles of 10 open chest dogs were paced at 300-, 500-, or 1,000-ms cycle lengths. The shock strength associated with a 50% probability of reaching the upper limit of vulnerability (ULV 50 ) and the shock strength associated with a 50% probability of defibrillation (DFT 50 ) were then determined by means of an up-down algorithm. Lidocaine (9.2-mg/kg body weight loading dose and 285-μg/kg per min maintenance dose) was then given, and the ULV 50 and the DFT 50 were redetermined after 1 h of stable infusion. Results . The mean (±SD) lidocaine concentration was 11.9 ±2.4 μg/ml. At baseline, the ULV 50 tested with each S 1 cycle length was not significantly different from the DFT 50 . During lidocaine infusion, the ULV 50 determined with cycle lengths of 300 and 500 ms (18.9 ± 11.3 and 16.1 ± 8.9 J, respectively) were significantly (p 50 (11.2 ± 4.1 and 10.9 ± 5.6 J, respectively). However, when determined with an S 1 cycle length of 1,000 ms, the ULV 50 (10.4 ± 4.1 J) was not found to be significantly different from the DFT 50 (10.3 ± 5.3 J). Lidocaine infusion increased (p Conclusions . The effect of lidocaine on the upper limit of vulnerability is use dependent. These results are compatible with the hypothesis that sodium enamel activity is important in determining ventricular vulnerability to electrical shocks.
Thickness dependent self limiting 1-D tin oxide nanowire arrays by nanosecond pulsed laser irradiation

Fast, sensitive and discriminating detection of hydrogen at room temperature is crucial for storage, transportation, and distribution of hydrogen as an energy source. One dimensional nanowires of SnO2 are potential candidates for improved H2 sensor performance. The single directional conducting continuous nanowires can decrease electrical noise, and their large active surface area could improve the response and recovery time of the sensor. In this work we discuss synthesis and characterization of nanowire arrays made using nanosecond ultraviolet wavelength (266 nm) laser interference processing of ultrathin SnO2 films on SiO2 substrates. The laser energy was chosen to be above the melting point of the films. The results show that the final nanowire formation is dominated by preferential evaporation as compared to thermocapillary flow. The nanowire height (and hence wire aspect ratio) increased with increasing initial film thickness h0 and with increasing laser energy density Eo. Furthermore, a self-limiting effect was observed where-in the wire formation ceased at a specific final remaining thickness of SnO2 that was almost independent of h0 for a given Eo. To understand these effects, finite element modeling of the nanoscale laser heating was performed. This showed that the temperature rise under laser heating was a strong non-monotonic function of film thickness. As a result, the preferential evaporation rate varies as wire formation occurs, eventually leading to a shut-off of evaporation at a characteristic thickness. This results in the stoppage of wire formation. This combination of nanosecond pulsed laser experiments and thermal modeling shows that several unique synthesis approaches can be utilized to control the nanowire characteristics.
Critical fan in the antiferromagnetic three-state Potts model

The three-state Potts model on a square lattice with general nearest-neighbor interaction and ferromagnetic second-neighbor interaction is studied. At zero temperature the model with antiferromagnetic nearest-neighbor interactions is mapped to the $F$ model. By comparing the excitations generated at nonzero temperature to those that lead to the eight-vertex model we obtain an explicit expression for the critical index describing such excitations and demonstrate the existence of a critical fan for ferromagnetic second-neighbor interactions. The model with purely nearest-neighbor interactions is critical only at zero temperature. Explicit expressions for the scaling indices of the color-color correlation function in the critical phase are also obtained. Phenomenological renormalization-group methods are applied to determine the general boundaries of the critical fan and to verify our expressions for critical indices. A physical system which might be expected to undergo a transition in the same universality class as that of the above model and to exhibit a critical phase is proposed: an equal mixture of krypton and xenon adsorbed on graphite.
Initial oxidation rate of nickel and effect of the curie temperature

Abstract Nickel foil was oxidized for 24 hr periods within the temperature range 307° to 442°C producing NiO films up to 3400 A thick maximum. A discontinuity in oxide growth is observed at the Curie temperature (353°C). Data obtained at 390°, 394° and 405°C as a function of time show that a two-stage oxide growth rate occurs, a higher rate following an initially lower rate. Both stages are represented by a linear relation between oxide thickness and logarithm of time. Many initial oxidation rate data obtained by other investigators, for Ni and a variety of metals, also follow the two-stage logarithmic equation. Based on control of the initial oxidation rate by electron transfer from metal to oxide, the discontinuity of oxide thickness at the Curie temperature is explained by an observed work function of nickel slightly higher above the Curie temperature than below. The change of work function also explains a slightly higher activation energy for oxidation above the Curie temperature than below. Calculations show that the density of trapped electrons in a constant density space charge next to the metal surface is 1.3 × 1016 at 390°C. Density of available sites for trapped charge in a diffuse charge layer, which grows on top of the constant density layer, is the same order of magnitude (5.5 × 1015). A higher density of sites for NiO than for Cu2O, plus a higher work function for Ni than for Cu, are in line with a lower oxidation rate of Ni compared to Cu. It is calculated that contact of oxide with Ni or Cu lowers the work function at the metal-oxide interface by about 0.6 V. This value agrees, in the case of Cu2O, with the energy required to excite an electron from the filled band to the conduction band.
Double-blind study of levamisole in aphthous stomatitis.

Sixty-five patients with recurrent aphthous stomatitis participated in a double-blind study to evaluate levamisole. Nineteen of 34 patients improved on levamisole and only five of 31 patients improved on placebo (P>0.004, chi-square with two degrees of freedom). After breaking the code and switching placebo patients to levamisole and non-responders to an alternate dosage schedule, 46 of 60 patients noted clinical improvement. This is publication number 33 of the Dermatological Research Laboratories of Duke University Medical Center.
Consequences of assuming a universal relation

Although central to the current direction of dependency theory, the assumption of a universal relation is incompatible with some aspects of relational database theory and practice. Furthermore, the universal relation is itself ill defined in some important ways. And, under the universal relation assumption, the decomposition approach to database design becomes virtually indistinguishable from the synthetic approach.
Exponential approximations to compacted sediment porosity profiles

Sediment compaction and corresponding porosity variations can be modeled by a simple exponential with depth. The porosity solution is derived analytically as a complicated function of pore water pressure, but the underlying form is shown to approximate an exponential except near the surface where the behavior is linear. Even though the analytical simplifications ignore some of the detailed effects of sediment lithology, a large world-wide collection of porosity data from compacted shales, silts and sandstones supports the general exponential trend. For comparison, a numerical compaction routine (with fewer assumptions than the analytical solution) is used in conjunction with a previously developed process-based model of marine sedimentation. Together, the compaction and sedimentation models show that in a realistic depositional environment, porosity varies exponentially with depth, in agreement with both the empirical data and the analytical approximation.
Two classes of differentially regulated glutamine synthetase genes are expressed in the soybean nodule: a nodule-specific class and a constitutively expressed class.

We have characterized two sets of cDNA clones representing the glutamine synthetase (GS) mRNA in soybean nodules. Using the 3′-untranslated regions of a representative member of each set, as gene member(s) specific probes, we have shown that one set of the GS genes are expressed in a nodule-specific manner, while the other set is expressed in other tissues, besides the nodules. The nodule-specific GS genes are expressed in a developmentally regulated manner in the nodules, independent of the onset of nitrogen fixation. The other class of GS genes is expressed constitutively in all tissues tested, but its expression level is dramatically enhanced in nodules following onset of N2 fixation. The latter set of genes is also expressed in cotyledons of germinating seedlings in a developmentally regulated manner. Analysis of hybrid select translation products and genomic Southern blots suggests that multiple gene members in each class are expressed in the nodules.
VASP is a processive actin polymerase that requires monomeric actin for barbed end association

Ena/VASP proteins regulate the actin cytoskeleton during cell migration and morphogenesis and promote assembly of both filopodial and lamellipodial actin networks. To understand the molecular mechanisms underlying their cellular functions we used total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy to visualize VASP tetramers interacting with static and growing actin filaments in vitro. We observed multiple filament binding modes: (1) static side binding, (2) side binding with one-dimensional diffusion, and (3) processive barbed end tracking. Actin monomers antagonize side binding but promote high affinity (Kd = 9 nM) barbed end attachment. In low ionic strength buffers, VASP tetramers are weakly processive (Koff = 0.69 s−1) polymerases that deliver multiple actin monomers per barbed end–binding event and effectively antagonize filament capping. In higher ionic strength buffers, VASP requires profilin for effective polymerase and anti-capping activity. Based on our observations, we propose a mechanism that accounts for all three binding modes and provides a model for how VASP promotes actin filament assembly.
Space tests of relativistic gravity with precision clocks and atom interferometers

Precision clocks and interferometers in space can test relativistic gravity with extremely high sensitivity. Yet, only a single such test has been performed, namely the celebrated flight of a hydrogen maser in a sub-orbital trajectory in 1976 (GP-A mission). This paper suggests some of the obstacles to space flight of precision instruments, and describes how the emergence of new technology might offer a pathway for removing those obstacles. A brief review of emerging technologies is made, and new mission concepts based on them are described. Some of the technologies that can impact more tests of relativistic gravity in space at a more distant future are also described.
Effect of nonperfect isolation on the temperature of metal surfaces on satellites.

Changes of surface optical properties of metal surfaces determined through equilibrium temperature measurements in space flight experiments
A Testbed for Realistic Image Synthesis

Classical ray-tracing techniques, which have produced the most realistic computer-generated images to date, are being enhanced in this developmental system.
Microsatellites and microsynteny in the chloroplast genomes of Oryza and eight other Gramineae species.

Primer pairs flanking ten chloroplast microsatellite loci, originally identified in Oryzasativa cv Nipponbare, were evaluated for amplification and allelic diversity using a panel of 13 diverse cultivars of rice (O. sativa), 19 accessions of wild rice (three O. officinalis, five O. latifolia, five O.minuta, four O. australiensis, one O. brachyantha and one O. ridleyi) and eight other Gramineae species (maize, teosinte, wheat, oat, barley, pearl millet, sorghum and sugarcane). Amplified products were obtained for all samples at nine out of ten loci. Among the rice cultivars, the number of alleles per locus ranged from one to four, with monomorphic patterns observed at five loci. The average polymorphism information content (PIC) value at the other five (polymorphic) loci was 0.54 among the 13 cultivars. When wild rice and the other Gramineae species were compared based on the proportion of shared alleles, their phylogenetic relationships were in agreement with previous studies using different types of markers; however, the magnitude of the differences based on chloroplast microsatellites underestimated the genetic distance separating these divergent species and genera. A sequence-based comparison of homologous regions of the rice and maize chloroplast genomes revealed that, while a high level of microsynteny is evident, the occurrence of actively evolving microsatellite motifs in specific regions of the rice chloroplast genome appears to be mainly a species or genome-specific phenomenon. Thus the chloroplast primer pairs used in this study bracketed mutationally active microsatellite motifs in rice but degenerate, interrupted motifs or highly conserved, mutationally inert motifs in distantly related genera.
Calculation of free-bound transition strength in channeling radiation or coherent bremsstrahlung

Abstract Radiative transitions of charged leptons from free to bound states of transverse motion while passing through a crystal channel constitute a phenomenon intermediate between channeling radiation and coherent bremsstrahlung. Experimentally, these free-bound (fb) transitions have been observed in Si crystals; they may be distinguished from bound-bound (bb, or channeling radiation) and from free-free (ff, or coherent bremsstrahlung) transitions by the kinematical variation of the radiation energy with the angle of incidence of the leptons. We here present formulas for the intensity and polarization of this radiation in the first-order Born approximation.
A Naturalist of Note

Buffon. A Life in Natural History. JACQUES ROGER. Cornell University Press, Ithaca, NY, 1997. xviii, 492 pp., illus. $49.95 or £39.50. ISBN 0-8014-2918-8. Cornell History of Science. Translated from the French edition (1989) by Sarah Lucille Bonnefoi. L. Pearce Williams, translation editor.
Inhibition of a Hepatic Microsomal Enzyme System After Head X-Irradiation of Rats.

SummaryExposure to x-irradiation in utero or during the early postnatal life (total body or head alone) produced a suppression of the development of hexobarbital metabolising enzyme system in liver. Abscopal inhibition of the hepatic enzyme system after x-irradiation was also noted in adult male rats, but with higher radiation doses, suggesting that the central nervous system plays a regulatory role not only in the development but also in the maintenance of optimal level of enzyme activity in liver.
Entire functions satisfying a linear differential equation

Abstract If f is an entire function and satisfies a certain differential equation, then it is shown that f is of bounded index. This extends a theorem of S. M. Shah.
It is not just assisted circulation, hypothermic arrest, or clamp and sew.

We have surgically treated 771 patients for thoracic and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms since 1983. Our primary effort has been to develop experimentally validated strategies to reduce paraplegia, renal failure, and mortality in these high-risk patients. This approach has led to a spinal cord protection protocol that has reduced paraplegia risk by 80% (observed/expected ratio = 0.19) with the use of cerebral spinal fluid drainage, moderate hypothermia (31°C–33°C), endorphin receptor antagonist (naloxone), and thiopental burst suppression while optimizing mean arterial pressure (>90 mm Hg) and cardiac index. The elective mortality rate is 2.80% (17% for acute patients), and with rapid renal cooling for renal protection, only 0.88% required permanent dialysis. These results were achieved without the use of assisted circulation. We have reattached intercostal arteries since 2005 using preoperative magnetic resonance angiographic localization, but it remains unclear whether intercostal reimplantation reduces paraplegia risk, as we had initially proposed. We strongly believe that a consistent anesthetic and postoperative care protocol uniformly built and applied around these principles greatly enhances our surgical outcomes. We also show that improved outcomes with assisted circulation and hypothermic arrest in treatment of thoracoabdominal aortic disease follow similar principles of spinal cord and end-organ protection.
A generalized modeling strategy of quantum-cascade structures with resonance-enhanced harmonic oscillations

In this work, the modeling strategy of quantum-cascade lasers is generalized to including the harmonic-resonance-enhanced nonlinear oscillations up to the third order. In addition to the lasing power at fundamental frequency, the second-harmonic and third-harmonic output power can all be evaluated through the model. The model is built on the rate-equations for subband electrons and photons, in connection with Maxwell wave equations for propagation coupling between different emission modes. Various radiative and nonradiative carrier scattering mechanisms are accounted in the model. In addition to single-photon processes, multi-photon processes in the nonlinear cascades are also accounted. The model is based on a full cascade structure containing the injector, active region, and collector in order to account for the nonideal injection efficiency between periodic stages of quantum-cascade lasers. The simulation results on two fabricated quantum-cascade structures capable of nonlinearly harmonic generations agree well with the experiment measurements. The model can be used to evaluate and further optimize the nonlinear performances of quantum-cascade lasers.
Melting dramatically enhances the reactivity of aluminum nanoclusters.

The kinetic energy threshold for chemisorption of N2 on Al100+ has been measured as a function of the nanocluster’s temperature from 440 to 790 K. When the Al100+ cluster melts at 620−660 K, the threshold drops by ∼1 eV (∼96 kJ/mol). A decrease in the activation energy of this magnitude causes a 108-fold increase in the reaction rate at the melting temperature. The decrease in the activation energy may result from the mobility of the surface atoms on the liquid cluster, which allows them to move to a lower energy arrangement as the N2 approaches.
Parallel processing and OOP as an analogy for the discovery of certain mathematical proofs

Abstract This paper presents a heuristic methodology that can be used to discover (and/or better understand) proofs of some mathematical theorems, when the statement of the theorem involves a set for which every element should be “processed.” This heuristic, which has a number of interesting connections with recent trends in computer program design, is called the Method of Uniform Parallel Object-Modules, after the concepts of modularization, parallel processing, and object oriented programming.
Modification of development on the basis of differential susceptibility to radiation I. Fundulus heteroclitus and ultraviolet radiation

This paper reports experiments with Fundulus heteroclitus to modify larval development by means of ultraviolet radiation. Eggs were exposed to radiation at various intervals after fertilization for varying periods of time. The results accord with previous work on fish teratology, and the developmental types obtained are essentially similar to those produced by chemicals, cold, and hybridization. The deviations from normal development occur in the same body regions as do those in other vertebrates whose early development has been modified by the action of radiation (x-rays, radium, etc.). The results of these experiments indicate that there is a non-specificity in susceptibility relations with the production of similar types of monsters for widely different reagents. That these eggs are differentially susceptible to the action of ultraviolet radiation is indicated by the fact that those regions which have the highest metabolic activity when an inhibiting influence is active are the ones most generally affected. Thus modifications of the nervous system, sense organs, circulatory system, tail region, and body axis result, respectively, in the production of varying degrees of cyclopia, inadequate circulation, short, stubby or bent, non-motile tails (some bifid), and anterior twinning. As these modifications may be produced by applying inhibiting influences during the first few minutes after fertilization, it is evident that there is in the egg at this stage some constitutional or physiological basis which determines early differences in susceptibility of its various parts.
The atypical structure and function of newborn arterial endothelium is mediated by Rho/Rho kinase signaling

Endothelium of fetal or newborn arteries is atypical, displaying actin stress fibers and reduced nitric oxide (NO)-mediated dilatation. This study tested the hypothesis that Rho/Rho kinase signalin...
Characterization of potassium currents in adult rat sensory neurons and modulation by opioids and cyclic AMP

Using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique on acutely dissociated and cultured adult rat sensory neurons, we characterized the K+ currents by voltage dependence, kinetics, calcium dependence, and pharmacology. In the presence of Ca channel blockers, the cells heterogeneously expressed transient and sustained outward K+ currents. The transient current was a high-threshold A-current which activated at potentials greater than -30 mV and was blocked by 4-aminopyridine. Some of the sustained current was classified as a delayed rectifier. It demonstrated shallow voltage-dependent inactivation and was blocked by tetraethylammonium. Capsaicin produced large reductions in both transient and sustained currents with an EC50 of 8 microM. Likewise, dendrotoxin partially blocked both currents but with an EC50 of 21 nM. In the absence of Ca channel blockers, a prominent Ca-dependent K+ current was observed. The kinetics of whole-cell potassium currents varied widely among cells, perhaps reflecting the different functional properties of sensory neurons. We also investigated the effects of elevating intracellular cyclic AMP and applying opioids on K+ currents. Membrane-permanent analogs of cyclic AMP and phosphodiesterase inhibitors caused small reductions in voltage-dependent outward current. In contrast, forskolin produced a large reduction in outward current. This response was not solely mediated by cyclic AMP, since large responses were elicited with an inactive congener, 1,9-dideoxyforskolin, but not with the active, water-soluble congener, 7-deacetyl-6-[N-acetylglycyl]-forskolin. Surprisingly, opioids had no effect on resting or voltage-dependent K+ conductances. However, opioid inhibition of Ca2+ currents and Ca-dependent K+ currents was observed. The failure to demonstrate opioid modulation of resting or voltage dependent K+ currents suggests that modulation of Ca2+ currents is the principal mechanism for the inhibitory effect of opioids on sensory neurons.
Simplex optimization of the synergic extraction of a bis-diketo copper(II) complex

Abstract Simplex optimization is used to maximize the synergic extraction of copper(II) acetylacetonate into cyclohexane through formation of the isoquinoline adduct. Concentrations of isoquinoline and acetylacetone and pH were optimized for 1 × 10-4 M copper(II) solutions. Distribution coefficients of 0.25 were obtained above pH 7.9 for acetylacetone and isoquinoline concentrations above 3.0 × 10-4 M and 2.0 × 10-4 M, respectively.
Reliability and Validity of the HOME Preschool Inventory in Jamaica.

Two hundred and ninety‐four preschool‐aged children and their primary caregiver participated in a study to determine the measurement equivalence of the Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment in Jamaica. Factor analysis with alpha reliability provided a measure of internal consistency. McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities were done as a measure of concurrent validity. Concurrent validity is demonstrated for four HOME subscales and the total. The factor structure in the Jamaican sample is similar to the existing HOME, but not an equivalent match. Broadly‐based comparisons could be made cross‐culturally using this scale in Jamaica however more culture‐specific measurements would be indicated for within culture studies. Items related to direct cognitive stimulation by the caregiver are shown to be more relevant cross‐culturally than are the socio‐emotional items and physical aspects of the environment which tend to be more culture specific.
Effect of Dietary Lipids and Cholesterol on the Levels and Synthesis of Some Hepatic Lipid Components of Young Chickens

Abstract INTRODUCTION SEVERAL workers (Ridout et al., 1952; Klein, 1958; Morin et al., 1962; Diller et al., 1961) have reported that dietary cholesterol increased liver glyceride, cholesteryl ester and to a lesser extent, free cholesterol. Liver cholesterol increased to the same extent when cholesterol was consumed with unsaturated or saturated fat (Homer et al., 1960). Unsaturated fat stimulated the incoporation of labeled acetate into liver (Wood and Migicovsky, 1958; Weiss et al., 1967), whereas triglyceride radioactivity decreased and with no change in cholesteryl ester (Weiss et al., 1967). This study is concerned with the changes in the levels and synthesis of lipid fractions of liver of young chickens on a saturated or unsaturated diet with or without cholesterol. The results obtained demonstrate that chicken liver responds to the ingestion of cholesterol differently, depending on the type of fat consumed. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 45 newly-hatched New Hampshire chickens, from…
INTERMOLECULAR DYNAMICS OF SUBSTITUTED BENZENE AND CYCLOHEXANE LIQUIDS, STUDIED BY FEMTOSECOND NONLINEAR-OPTICAL POLARIZATION SPECTROSCOPY

Femtosecond time-resolved optical-heterodyne detected Raman-induced Kerr effect spectroscopy (OHD-RIKES) is shown to be a powerful and comprehensive tool for studying the intermolecular dynamics occurring in liquids. The observed dynamics include both the underdamped, or coherent inertial motions, and the longer time scale diffusive relaxation. The inertial dynamics include phonon-like intermolecular vibrations, intermolecular collisions, and librational caging motions. Data are presented and analyzed for a series of five liquids: cyclohexane, methylcyclohexane, toluene, benzyl alcohol, and benzonitrile, listed in order of increasing polarity. We explore the effects of aromaticity (e.g., methylcyclohexane vs. toluene), symmetry reduction (cyclohexane vs methylcyclohexane), and substitution effects (e.g., substituted benzene series) on the ultrafast intermolecular dynamics, for a group of molecular liquids of similar size and volume. We analyze the intermolecular dynamics in both the time and frequency do...
Cheese Wire Fenestration of a Chronic Juxtarenal Dissection Flap to Facilitate Proximal Neck Fixation during EVAR

Background To describe successful endovascular repair of a complex chronic aortoiliac dissection facilitated by a unique endovascular fenestration technique at the proximal neck. Methods A 57-year-old man presented with disabling lower extremity claudication and a remote history of medically treated type B aortic dissection. Computed tomographic angiography demonstrated a complex dissection with 7.1-cm false lumen aneurysmal dilatation and significant true lumen compression within bilateral iliac aneurysms and no suitable proximal infrarenal neck free of dissection. Results Using intravascular ultrasound, guidewires were introduced into true and false lumens. A 9F sheath was placed on the right side, and a 20-ga Chiba needle was positioned at the level of the celiac artery and oriented toward the dissection flap. The needle was advanced to puncture the flap, and a 0.014-in wire was then snared from the true to the false lumen. Shearing of the dissection flap in the juxtarenal segment was performed using a “cheese wire” technique, whereby both ends of the guidewire were pulled caudally in a sawing motion down through the infrarenal neck and into the aneurysm sac. Angiography confirmed absence of residual dissection and perfusion of the visceral vessels via the true lumen. Given the newly created infrarenal neck, standard endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) was performed and antegrade and retrograde false lumen flow was obliterated from the visceral vessels. Postoperative imaging confirmed aneurysm exclusion, no endoleak, and patent bilateral common iliac arteries with resolution of claudication symptoms and normal ankle-brachial indices. Conclusions Endovascular management of false lumen aneurysms in the setting of chronic dissection is limited by the ability of stent grafts to obtain adequate proximal or distal fixation. Endovascular fenestration of these chronic flaps facilitates generation of suitable landing zones, thereby serving as a useful adjunct to standard EVAR.
Comparison of monostatic and bistatic radar images

Relationships between monostatic and bistatic radar images are reviewed and discussed, both from the point of view of identical receiver locations, and from the conventional point of view where the monostatic radar is located at the angular bisector between the bistatic transmitter and receiver. Example images are computed using scattered fields from two three-dimensional (3D) body-of-revolution (BOR) geometries. A Method-of-Moments solution is used to calculate scattered fields so that no scattering interactions are neglected. In the conventional comparison, sample bistatic images show direct-scattering mechanisms similar to those of monostatic images as expected, although significant differences are observed in higher-order scattering effects. With identical. receiver locations, the sample bistatic images generated are very different from the monostatic images, and illustrate the practically important fact that geometries designed to minimize monostatic scattering can produce large bistatic returns.
Saurian malaria in the Caribbean: Plasmodium azurophilum sp. nov., a malarial parasite with schizogony and gametogony in both red and white blood cells.

Abstract A survey of 466 Caribbean lizards found Plasmodium parasites present in Anolis species only of five islands. Parasites presently considered to be P. floridense occurred on Grand Cayman, North Bimini, Jamaica, Hispaniola (Haiti), and Puerto Rico. A second species, P. azurophilum , is described as new from Anolis cybotes of Haiti, A. krugi of Puerto Rico, and A. lineatopus and A. grahami of Jamaica. It lacks visible pigment in erythrocytic host cells but can produce it occasionally. Both asexual and sexual forms occur in a variety of white blood cells, notably in azurophil granulocytes and polymorphonuclear leucocytes. Experimental infections indicate that the leucocytic phase occurs after the acute erythrocytic infection declines, thus suggesting that the schizogonic and gametogonic cycles in white cells may represent an adaptive defense against immune mechanisms of the host. Mean numbers of nuclei in schizonts and mean gametocyte size are influenced by host species and type of host cell.
Third harmonic generation spectra of degenerate ground state derivatives of poly (1,6-heptadiyne)

Abstract Third harmonic generation spectra were measured for two derivatives of poly(1,6-heptadiyne), a di-ketone (PHDK) and a diester (PHDE); each has a bond-alternated structure and a twofold degenerate ground state. Since PHDK and PHDE are soluble in organic solvents, optical quality films can be cast from solution. For randomly oriented films, χ (3) (−3ω; ω, ω, ω) = 5.2 × 10 −10 esu on the peak of a narrow resonance centered at 0.66 eV. Off resonance values throughout the infrared (0.55 to 1.3 eV) are smaller by an order of magnitude. We identify the resonance in χ (3) (3ω) with the simultaneous two- and three-photon resonance of the soliton—antisoliton A g intermediate state mechanism in degenerate ground state polymers.
Massive aortic aneurysm and dissection in repaired tetralogy of Fallot; diagnosis by cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging.

Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the most common congenital cyanotic heart disease beyond first year of life. The early surgical correction has dramatically reduced the morbidity and mortality in this population. However, aortic aneurysms in repaired TOF patients have only recently been reported [1]. In response to the article by Warnes and Child [2] 1 year ago in which aortic aneurysms were described, despite marked aortic dilatation an aortic dissection was not found nor has ever been reported in TOF, we now have found and report the first known case. We also report the largest sinus of Valsalva and ascending aorta dilatation recorded to date in this patient population. A 36-year-old Caucasian male with a history of TOF and left bronchial collaterals status post several repairs dating to age 6, presented with a 6-day history of chest pain and progressive dyspnea on exertion. An ECG at the time of admission showed a right bundle branch block and negative cardiac enzymes. The patient continued to deteriorate requiring mechanical ventilation, whereupon a transesophageal echocardiogram was performed which suggested an ascending aortic aneurysm with possible focal dissection and normal sized left and right ventricle. To further delineate the anatomy, a cardiovascular MRI was performed which revealed a gargantuan left and right ventricle measuring 98 and 54 mm in end-diastole, respectively (Fig. 1D,C). The left ventricle was extensively
FoxOs in Tumor Suppression and Stem Cell Maintenance

The FoxO transcription factors have been implicated in many processes including tumor suppression and cell death. In this issue, two groups now report on mice that conditionally lack the three predominant FoxO transcription factors. Tothova et al. (2007) demonstrate that FoxOs are critical for the long-term maintenance of hematopoietic stem cells, and Paik et al. (2007) show that FoxOs suppress the formation of hemangiomas and lymphomas in mice.
Potential Mediating Pathways through Which Sports Participation Relates to Reduced Risk of Suicidal Ideation.

Suicide ranks as the third leading cause of death for American youth. Researchers examining sport participation and suicidal behavior have regularly found inverse relationships. This study represents the first effort to test a model depicting potential mechanisms through which sport participation relates to reduced risk of suicidal ideation. The participants were 450 undergraduate students. Measures assessed participants' involvement in university-run sports and other activities; frequency of physical activity; and perceived social support, self-esteem, depression, hopelessness, loneliness, and suicidal ideation. Regression analyses confirmed a path model and tested for mediation effects. Vigorous activity mediated relationships between sport participation and self-esteem and depression; and self-esteem and depression mediated the relationship between vigorous activity and suicidal ideation. Social support mediated relationships between sport participation and depression, hopelessness, and loneliness; and...
Hermite-Birkhoff trigonometric interpolation in the (0, 1, 2, M) case

Following four important papers on Birkhoff interpolation by Turan and his associates ([2], [3], [4], [14]), Kis ([8], [19]) proved the following theorems.
A comparison of three neonatal resuscitation devices

Abstract Background: Ventilation during neonatal resuscitation involves the use of self-inflating bags, flow-inflating bags, and T-piece resuscitators. The ability of operators to deliver desired peak inspiratory pressures (PIP), positive end expiratory pressures (PEEP), prolonged inflations and the length of time to transition between different pressures has not been compared for all three of these devices. Objective: To compare the ability of neonatal resuscitation personnel to deliver predetermined ventilation interventions using these devices in advance of a clinical trial of neonatal resuscitation. Design/methods: We studied 31 operators (neomatologists, neonatal respiratory therapists, neonatal fellows, a pediatrician, pediatric residents, neonatal nurse practitioners, and neonatal nurses) using a T-piece resuscitator (Neopuff ® , Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, Auckland, New Zealand), a self-inflating bag (Baby Blue II, Vital Signs, Totowa, NJ), and a flow-inflating bag (Model E191 Anesthesia Associates, San Marcos, CA). The self-inflating bag was tested with and without the manufacturer's PEEP valve. Using a continuous pressure recording system and a neonatal manikin, we evaluated the ability to deliver a consistent PIP of 20 or 40cmH 2 O and a PEEP of 5cmH 2 O during 30s of ventilation, the ability to maintain a 5s inflation at a PIP of 20cmH 2 O and the time to transition from a PIP of 20 to 40cmH 2 O. Each device was evaluated with and without a qualitative CO 2 detector (Pedicap ® Nellcor Pleasanton, CA). Results: The T-piece resuscitator delivered the desired PIP more precisely and consistently compared with the self-inflating bag at a target of 20cmH 2 O (maximum PIP 20.7cmH 2 O, S.D.=0.8 versus 24.7cmH 2 O, S.D.=2.8; p 2 O, the maximum pressure delivered with the T-piece resuscitator was significantly less than both the flow-inflating bag and the self-inflating bag (39.7cmH 2 O, S.D.=2.1 versus 44cmH 2 O, S.D.=3.3 versus 45.3cmH 2 O, S.D.=4.7; p 2 O using the T-piece resuscitator compared to the self-inflating bag or the flow-inflating bag (5.7s versus 2.2s versus 1.8s; p 2 O for a longer time than the self-inflating bag (4s versus 3.7s versus 2.2s; p 2 O versus 4.4cmH 2 O versus 4.4cmH 2 O; p ® did not significantly affect any of the observed results, and there were no consistent operator differences between different disciplines or years of experience. Conclusions: The T-piece resuscitator delivered the desired pressures more accurately, but required greater time to increase the PIP from 20 to 40cmH 2 O. It was difficult to maintain a prolonged inflation and deliver the desired PEEP with the self-inflating bag even with the PEEP valve in place. There is a need for improvement in the design and function of current manual resuscitation devices and for prospective trials to evaluate the optimal method of bag and mask ventilation during resuscitation of the newborn infant.