cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of phenobarbital and SKF 525A pretreatment, sex, liver injury, and vehicle on Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol toxicity☆☆☆

Abstract Phenobarbital (PB) antagonizes and SKF 525A potentiates Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-induced mortality. PB (60 mg/kg/day for 4 days) and SKF 525A (40 mg/kg, 1 hr before THC) alter THC plasma concentrations, distribution, and excretion. After ip administration of 14 C-labeled THC, 14 C was measured in plasma and brain tissue. SKF 525A pretreatment resulted in a significantly higher plasma and brain 14 C concentration. PB pretreatment resulted in a slight reduction of plasma and brain 14 C concentration. Neither pretreatment significantly alters the total percent of dose excreted, but both treatments resulted in significantly greater 14 C excretion in urine when compared to controls. Male mice are more sensitive to THC-induced toxicity then female mice. Carbon tetrachloride and ANIT-induced liver injury produced a significant increase in THC-induced lethality. Presence of liver injury produced a 3- to 5-fold increase in THC-induced lethality when compared to THC alone. THC suspended in Tween 80 and saline is 5 times more toxic than the same dosage administered in an oil solution.
The Military and Militarism in Israeli Society

The Military and Militarism in Israeli Society. Edna Lomsky-Feder and Eyal Ben-Ari. eds. Albany: State University of New York Press, 1999. 323 pp., index.
Earth Terminal-to-Satellite Link Availability using New Rain Event Duration Statistics

As conventional frequency bands become crowded or fail to yield the required performance, commercial and military earth terminal to satellite communications links are entering the EHF domain. Although EHF links can offer significant advantages over lower frequency links, they also suffer reduced availability caused by rain attenuation. The study reported in this paper uses the Crane model and applies local rain statistics in order to assess local link availability. Year to year outage time varies on the order of 10 to 1. Monthly outage times can be about 10 times the yearly percentage of outage times and weekly outage times can be about 5 times the monthly. An investigation of some short-term single rain event duration statistics at specific locations indicates that if connectivity must occur within a certain period, then functional availability defined in this way can be greater than the "on demand" average availability. Analysis of existing data reveals statistics on the likelihood of occurrence and duration of single outage events.
Branching Ratios Within the Neutral Decays of the η 0 Meson

We have studied the neutral decays of ${\ensuremath{\eta}}^{0}$ mesons produced in a hydrogen bubble chamber. Utilizing the conversion within the chamber of one photon from each decay, we obtain the following percentages of the neutral decays: $\frac{({\ensuremath{\eta}}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{\gamma})}{({\ensuremath{\eta}}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\mathrm{neutrals})}=(48.6\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}3.6)%$, $\frac{({\ensuremath{\eta}}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{0}\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{\gamma})}{({\ensuremath{\eta}}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\mathrm{neutrals})}=({12.2}_{\ensuremath{-}4.4}^{+5.2})%$, and $\frac{({\ensuremath{\eta}}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}3{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{0})}{({\ensuremath{\eta}}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\mathrm{neutrals})=(39.2\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}4.2)%}$.%. With the assumption of no ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{0}\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{\gamma}$ contribution, we obtain the ratio $\frac{({\ensuremath{\eta}}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}3{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{0})}{({\ensuremath{\eta}}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{\gamma})}=0.91\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.14$.
Enhanced uniformity in arrays of electroless plated spherical gold nanoparticles using tin presensitization.

Gold nanoparticle arrays created with electroless gold plating provide a unique means of transforming nanocylinders usually formed in electron beam lithography to spherical nanoparticles. Alone, electroless gold plating is not selective to the substrate and results in the formation of a gold film on all exposed surfaces of an electron beam patterned sample, including the electron resist. Undesired gold plating occurred near patterned features on the substrate surface, which was reduced by increasing post-spin-coat cure time. When the electron resist is removed, some nanocylinders break off with the gold film, leaving partial cylinders or holes in the patterned elements. By presensitizing the substrate surface with tin, gold cylinders may be selectively deposited to the substrate surface without forming a film on the electron resist. Tin presensitized arrays were produced with 47.1 ± 7.4 nm radius gold nanoparticles with an interparticle distance of 646.0 ± 12.4 nm. Defects from sheared, missing, and redep...
High-resolution polyacrylamide gradient gel electrophoresis (PGGE) of isoenzymes from five Naegleria species.

. High-resolution polyacrylamide gradient gel electrophoresis (PGGE) was used to separate isoenzymes of 12 Naegleria strains: one N. australiensis, two N. lovaniensis, one N. jadini, two N. gruberi isolated from environmental samples, and six N. fowleri strains isolated from patients with primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. Of the eight enzymes studied, seven showed zymograms with interspecific variation that identified all the species tested. Although the six N. fowleri strains were biochemically the most homogeneous, they showed intraspecific isoenzyme variation that allowed them to be grouped into four zymodemes. The PGGE technique, which separates isoenzymes by their molecular shape, is both sensitive and economical. It offers an addition or an attractive alternative to isoelectric focusing which has commonly been used to aid species identification of Naegleria by separating isoenzymes by their isoelectric point.
Development of Carbon-Nanotube-Based Nanocomposite Strain Sensor

This paper presents the development of carbon-nanotube-based, polymer composite films that can be used as high-sensitivity strain sensors. The films were fabricated via either melt processing or solution casting of thermoplastic polymer matrices containing low concentrations of multi-walled carbon nanotubes. The electrical resistivities of the films were measured in situ using laboratory-designed fixtures and data acquisition system. The measured resistivities were correlated with the applied strains to evaluate the sensitivity of the nanocomposite film sensor. Various types of loading mode, including tension and flexure were considered. The paper suggests that conductive network formation, thus strain sensitivity of the conductive films, can be tailored by controlling nanotube loading, degree of nanotube dispersion, and film fabrication process. The developed sensors exhibited a wide range of sensitivity, the upper limit showing nearly an order of magnitude increase compared to conventional strain gages. Military and industrial applications of the sensitivity-tunable strain sensors are presented.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
The influence of narrative structure on memory

Subjects read the same information embedded at different hierarchical levels in four stories about political and economic strife on a small island and then performed a series of memory and rating tasks about the material they had read. Results showed that, overall, subjects recalled and recognized identical information equally well no matter which version they had read, in spite of great differences in the narrative structures and great differences in length, and gave them substantially the same ratings on several scales. Thus, contrary to results reported by others (e.g., Kintsch & van Dijk, 1975; Meyer, 1977; Rumelhart, 1976), there was no support for a narrative theory hypothesis that the hierarchical depth of information in the narrative structure determines memory for that information.
Rules, conventions, constraints, and rhetorical action

This chapter draws distinctions somewhat unorthodox in discussing terms such as "rules", "conventions", and "constraints" with respect to rhetorical action. It suggests that the rules and conventions of linguistics and speech act theory are inadequate for a complete account of rhetorical phenomena. The chapter argues that the rules, conventions, and constraints of rhetorical action differ from those operating in conversation or dialogue. It also argues that in view of the fact that rhetorical action and strategies are in large part determined by constraints generated by aim, media, audience, and situation, rhetorical action is in large part not constrained by rules and conventions that are universal to human action or the language used. The chapter examines the effect that although linguistic conventions and rules, including speech act theory, are incidental to defining the "felicity" of certain rhetorical genre and modes, the main thrust of the art of rhetoric and rhetorical strategy deals with constraints not grounded in conventions and rules.
Risk-taking behavior among adolescents with prenatal drug exposure and extrauterine environmental adversity.

OBJECTIVE:: High-risk environments characterized by familial substance use, poverty, inadequate parental monitoring, and violence exposure are associated with an increased propensity for adolescents to engage in risk-taking behaviors (e.g., substance use, sexual behavior, and delinquency). However, additional factors such as drug exposure in utero and deficits in inhibitory control among drug-exposed youth may further influence the likelihood that adolescents in high-risk environments will engage in risk-taking behavior. This study examined the influence of prenatal substance exposure, inhibitory control, and sociodemographic/environmental risk factors on risk-taking behaviors in a large cohort of adolescents with and without prenatal cocaine exposure (PCE). METHOD:: Risk-taking behavior (delinquency, substance use, and sexual activity) was assessed in 963 adolescents (433 cocaine-exposed, 530 nonexposed) at 15 years of age. RESULTS:: Prenatal cocaine exposure predicted later arrests and early onset of sexual behavior in controlled analyses. Associations were partially mediated, however, by adolescent inhibitory control problems. PCE was not associated with substance use at this age. In addition, male gender, low parental involvement, and violence exposure were associated with greater odds of engaging in risk-taking behavior across the observed domains. CONCLUSIONS:: Study findings substantiate concern regarding the association between prenatal substance exposure and related risk factors and the long-term outcomes of exposed youth. Access to the appropriate social, educational, and medical services is essential in preventing and intervening with risk-taking behaviors and the potential consequences (e.g., adverse health outcomes and incarceration), especially among high-risk adolescent youth and their families. Language: en
High-temperature sulfidation behavior of iron-based alloys in hydrogen sulfide-hydrogen gas mixtures

Sulfidation of Fe-Cr binary alloys, Fe-Cr-Al ternary alloys, and commercial stainless steels has been carried out at 540°C in a H2S-H2 gas mixture of 0.7 vol.% H2S and a total pressure of 1 atm. Sample exposure time was from 3 to 5 days. Gravimetric, metallographic, electron microprobe, and x-ray studies were made on a few selected alloys. Sulfidation rates of Fe-Cr-Al alloys were generally slower than corresponding Fe-Cr binary alloys and in many cases were orders of magnitude slower. Scales were extensively dual-layered and showed Al and Cr enrichment at the alloy-scale interface. Tests on the commercial stainless steels confirmed the results obtained with the laboratoryprepared Fe-Cr-Al alloys.
SPIRITUAL PERSPECTIVE AND NEEDS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF NURSING FACULTY IN A CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY AND A STATE UNIVERSITY

To care for the whole person, nurses must provide spiritual care (Narayanasamy, 1995; Wright, 1998). The inability to consistently and effectively provide spiritual care has been linked to the lack of educational preparation in our basic nursing programs (Govier, 2000; Piles, 1990). This lack of preparation is unacceptable because patients experiencing serious illness, life transitions, loss, grief, or pain have an increased awareness of spiritual needs (Charlton, 1992; Clark, Cross, Deane, and Lowry, 1991; Narayanasamy, 1995; Taylor, Highfield, and Amenta, 1999). During these experiences, patients are likely to interact with nurses—professionals that advocate holistic care (Martsolf and Mickley, 1998; McSherry and Draper, 1998). Nurses must be prepared to provide spiritual care since spirituality is an integral part of being human. Nurses are not likely to receive this preparation unless faculty value spiritual care. Faculty who are aware of spiritual needs, value spiritual care, and have the skills to p...
Determinants of export-oriented industrial output in Ghana: the case of formal wood processing in an era of economic recovery

Like many other Sub-Saharan African countries, Ghana implemented an orthodox Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP), to resuscitate its ailing economy, in the early 1980s. Subsequently, there has been a dramatic expansion in the production and export of processed wood. Based on an empirical study of Ghana's formal wood processing industry, this paper discusses the various determinants that have combined to boost the export-oriented output in the industry, particularly in the first decade of the programme, and assesses the extent to which the SAP-based policy actions account for the change. The study concludes that adjustment played a major role in the change, and suggests that even though SAP supporters and critics disagree on the nature, dynamics and effects of the programme, government measures under the programme are an indicator of what real commitment on the part of African governments can do to engender production expansion in comparable African manufacturing industries.
Rapid single flux quantum random access memory

A new design concept for the Josephson-junction random access memory (RAM) has been developed. In contrast to previous RAMs based on single flux quantization (SFQ), in our system READ and WRITE operations employ ballistic transfer of SFQ pulses along bit lines (either Josephson transmission lines, or passive superconducting microstrip lines, or their combination). The basic memory cells are the single-junction SQUIDs, connected serially by the bit lines and inductively coupled to word lines. READ and WRITE operations are performed by sending SFQ pulses in appropriate directions along bit lines, and DC currents of appropriate polarity into word lines. This approach allows design of very dense memories with n/spl les/2 Josephson junctions per bit, memory cell area smaller than 80 /spl lambda//sup 2/ (where /spl lambda/ is the minimum feature size), and the critical parameter margin well above /spl plusmn/20%. In this paper we present the general structure of the RSFQ RAM, as well as design and results of testing of the basic memory cell and decoder circuitry using Hypres' 3.5-/spl mu/m, 1-kA/cm/sup 2/ Nb-trilayer technology. >
Modeling the carbon cost of plant nitrogen acquisition: Mycorrhizal trade‐offs and multipath resistance uptake improve predictions of retranslocation

Accurate projections of the future land carbon (C) sink by terrestrial biosphere models depend on how nutrient constraints on net primary production are represented. While nutrient limitation is nearly universal, current models do not have a C cost for plant nutrient acquisition. Also missing are symbiotic mycorrhizal fungi, which can consume up to 20% of net primary production and supply up to 50% of a plant's nitrogen (N) uptake. Here we integrate simultaneous uptake and mycorrhizae into a cutting-edge plant N model—Fixation and Uptake of Nitrogen (FUN)—that can be coupled into terrestrial biosphere models. The C cost of N acquisition varies as a function of mycorrhizal type, with plants that support arbuscular mycorrhizae benefiting when N is relatively abundant and plants that support ectomycorrhizae benefiting when N is strongly limiting. Across six temperate forested sites (representing arbuscular mycorrhizal- and ectomycorrhizal-dominated stands and 176 site years), including multipath resistance improved the partitioning of N uptake between aboveground and belowground sources. Integrating mycorrhizae led to further improvements in predictions of N uptake from soil (R2 = 0.69 increased to R2 = 0.96) and from senescing leaves (R2 = 0.29 increased to R2 = 0.73) relative to the original model. On average, 5% and 9% of net primary production in arbuscular mycorrhizal- and ectomycorrhizal-dominated forests, respectively, was needed to support mycorrhizal-mediated acquisition of N. To the extent that resource constraints to net primary production are governed by similar trade-offs across all terrestrial ecosystems, integrating these improvements to FUN into terrestrial biosphere models should enhance predictions of the future land C sink.
Effect of Age and Obesity on Fasting Levels of Glucose, Insulin, Glucagon, and Growth Hormone in Man

The influence of age and obesity on glucose homeostasis may be mediated via changes in basal levels of the main glucoregulatory hormones, insulin, glucagon, and growth hormone. Fasting plasma levels of these hormones and of glucose were measured in 186 normal male volunteers, 23 to 93 years old. Obesity was assessed as obesity index and by a more accurate anthropometric method as percentage of fat. Age and obesity index had a significant but low linear correlation (r = -.16, p less than .05). Age was not significantly correlated to any other metabolic variable. Percentage of fat was, however, significantly related to the fasting plasma levels of glucose (r = .27, p less than .001), insulin (r = .26, p less than .01), and glucagon (r = .16 less than .05). Fasting glucose was significantly correlated to insulin (r = .30 , p less than .001). These significant correlations persisted when age was held constant. In the basal state the main glucoregulatory hormones are not influenced by age, but plasma glucose, insulin, and glucagon levels are influenced by obesity.
PULSED PLASMA THRUSTER PLUME DIAGNOSTICS

A plasma diagnostics package and related data processing techniques were developed at NASA Lewis in order to characterize the plume of a Pulsed Plasma Thruster. The setup included single Langmuir probes, fast ionization gauges mounted on a rotating rake mechanism and a residual gas analyzer. Instrument calibration was also performed. Single Langmuir probe results show that the plasmoid produced during the pulse contains two waves with an average ion velocity of 60 km/s and 30 km/s respectively. Fast ionization gauge data show that the neutrals in the plume travel with much lower speeds than the ions. Based on the residual gas analyzer data the plume is found to be composed primarily of C, F, CF, CF2, and CF3.
A comparison of woven and nonwoven blankets: insulation properties and effects of laundering

Woven and nonwoven blankets were compared before and after five launderings. Laundering was associated with enhanced thermal insulation effectiveness, which was related to structural changes. Both woven and nonwoven blankets provided improved thermal insulation after laundering, with the most significant improvements in thermal insulation occurring among the nonwovens. With respect to dimensional stability, structural changes, and thermal insulation, the nonwovens were found to be equivalent or superior to the wovens after five launderings.
“Probability of risk aversion” and other applications of derivatives of the certainty equivalent

“Probability of risk” aversion is principally concerned with reactions to scaling up of probabilities of non-zero values of a non-positive random variable by a common factor. Decreasing probability-of-risk aversion is defined and shown to be equivalent to ordinary risk aversion. Implications of this for insurance are pointed out. The sort of scaling involved is the same as that involved in “self-protection,” and it is shown that, for any expenditure on self-protection, say x, a concave utility function will prefer a coinsurance policy, costing x, which leaves probabilities unchanged, but scales down loss amounts by the same proportion as probabilities are scaled under self-protection. Properties of several comparative concepts of decreasing risk aversion are established. Derivatives of the certainty equivalent (CE) are used to elucidate well-known comparative static results in models of expected utility maximization. Finally, the study proves that concavity of the CE implies convexity of the coefficient of absolute risk aversion and examines the role of curvature of the CE in exploring relationships between properties of risk vulnerability, properness, and standardness.
Measures of robustness with reduced order observers-an example

An attempt is made to show how the measures of robustness introduced by R.V. Patel and M. Toda (1980) and by R.K. Yedavalli (1985) are affected when some nonmeasurable states have to be estimated using the Luenberger observers for the LWR design. This is illustrated by designing stability-robust reduced-order observers for an LQR feedback system for the F-15 aircraft, and computing the robustness measures referred to above. The numerical results show that the addition of observers to the system decreases the robustness bounds. The effect of varying the weighting matrix in the LQR theory on the robustness measures is also reported. >
Severe sepsis and septic shock in pregnancy: indications for delivery and maternal and perinatal outcomes

Objective: To report maternal and perinatal outcomes in obstetric patients with severe sepsis and septic shock. Methods: We performed a retrospective study of obstetric patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) for severe sepsis/septic shock. Maternal clinical characteristics, hemodynamic profiles, laboratory findings, and perinatal outcomes were evaluated. Patients with severe sepsis (N = 20) and septic shock (N = 10) were compared using Fisher’s Exact and Mann–Whitney U tests. Results: Pyelonephritis was the most common etiology overall (37%) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) was the most common organ injury in both severe sepsis (50%) and septic shock (80%). Liver dysfunction was present in cases with increased morbidity as a late finding and was the least frequent organ injury. Patients with septic shock had significantly higher rates of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) (p = 0.01), altered mental status (p ≤ 0.001), total bilirubin >4 mg/dl (p = 0.04), failure in ≥3 or...
Comparison of microanalytical methods for estimating H2O contents of silicic volcanic glasses

Three methods of estimating H20 contents of geologic glasses are compared: (1) ion microprobe analysis (secondary ion mass spectrometry), (2) Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy(FTIR), and (3) electron microprobe analysis using the Na decay-curve method. Each analytical method has its own advantages under certain conditions, depending on the relative importance of analytical accuracy, precision, sensitivity, spatial resolution, and convenience, and each is capable of providing reasonably accurate estimates of the H20, or total volatile, content of geologicglasses.The accuracy of ion microprobe analyses depends critically on the availability of well-characterized hydrous standard glasses. Precision is often better than 0,2 wt% (10). The method provides good spatial resolution (-15 #m) and the capability to determine simultaneously the abundance of other volatile species of interest (e.g., F, B). FTIR spectroscopy provides excellent analytical sensitivity (-10 ppm), accuracy and precision «0.1 wt%),and the capability to determine the abundance of H20 and C02 species (H20, OH-, C02' eOj-) in analyzed glasses, although the spatial resolution (> 25-35 #m) is not as good as that of the ion microprobe. The main advantages of the estimation of H20 contents of hydrous glasses using the electron microprobe are excellent spatial resolution (- 10 #m) and analytical convenience. The disadvantages are that accuracy and precision (>0.5 wt%) are not as good as those associated with the other methods, but, for certain applications, these uncertainties may be acceptable for the estimation of H20 contents of H20-rich (> 1 wt%) samples.
Live birth following in vitro maturation of oocytes retrieved from extracorporeal ovarian tissue aspiration and embryo cryopreservation for 5 years

Objective To report a live birth after in vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes retrieved from extracorporeal ovarian tissue aspiration in the setting of fertility preservation. Design Observational study. Setting Academic center. Patient(s) A 23-year-old woman. Intervention(s) IVM from extracorporeal ovarian tissue aspiration. Main Outcome Measure(s) Live birth after IVM. Result(s) A 23-year-old woman conceived with embryos derived from extracorporeal oocyte aspiration followed by IVM, embryo freezing, and frozen embryo transfer. Conclusion(s) A healthy live birth from extracorporeal aspiration of immature oocytes, IVM, and a frozen embryo transfer after 5 years was documented. Consideration of this technique should be made as a primary or adjunct intervention in the setting of fertility preservation.
Inpp5f Is a Polyphosphoinositide Phosphatase That Regulates Cardiac Hypertrophic Responsiveness

Rationale: Cardiac hypertrophy occurs in response to a variety of extrinsic and intrinsic stimuli that impose increased biomechanical stress. The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway has previously been strongly associated with hypertrophic signaling in the heart, and with the control of cell size in multiple contexts. This pathway is tightly regulated by many factors, including a host of kinases and phosphatases that function at multiple steps in the signaling cascade. For example, the PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog) tumor suppressor protein is a phosphoinositide 3-phosphatase that, by metabolizing phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PtdIns[3,4,5]P3, PIP3), acts in direct antagonism to growth factor–stimulated PI3K. Inhibition of PTEN leads to cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Another polyphoinositide phosphatase, inositol polyphosphate-5-phosphatase F (Inpp5f) has recently been implicated in regulation of cardiac hypertrophy. Like PTEN, this phosphatase can degrade PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 and t...
Attenuation of BPDE-induced p53 accumulation by TPA is associated with a decrease in stability and phosphorylation of p53 and downregulation of NFκB activation: role of p38 MAP kinase

DNA damage caused by benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) or other polynuclear hydrocarbons (PAHs) induce p53 protein as a protective measure to eliminate the possibility of mutagenic fixation of the DNA damage. 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) inhibits p53 response induced by B[a]P and other DNA-damaging agents and may cause tumor promotion. The molecular mechanism of attenuation of B[a]P-induced p53 response by TPA is not known. We investigated the effect of TPA on p53 response in (+/-)-anti-benzo[a]pyrene-7,8-diol-9,10-epoxide (BPDE)-treated mouse epidermal JB6(P(+)) Cl 41 cells. BPDE treatment induced p53 accumulation which was attenuated significantly by TPA. Cells treated with BPDE and TPA showed increased ratio of Mdm2 to p53 proteins in p53 immunoprecipitate and decreased p53 life span compared to BPDE-treated cells indicating p53 destabilization by TPA. TPA also inhibited BPDE-induced p53 phosphorylation at serine15. Activation of both ERKs and p38 MAPK by BPDE and attenuation of BPDE-induced p53 accumulation by U0126 or SB202190, specific inhibitor of MEK1/2 or p38 MAPK, indicate the role of ERKs and p38 MAPK in p53 accumulation. Interestingly, TPA potentiated BPDE-induced activation of ERKs whereas p38 MAPK activation was significantly inhibited by TPA, suggesting that inhibition of p38 MAPK is involved in p53 attenuation by TPA. Furthermore, SB202190 treatment caused decreased p53 stability and inhibition of phosphorylation of p53 at serine15 in BPDE-treated cells. We also observed that TPA or SB202190 attenuated BPDE-induced nuclear factor kappa B (NFkappaB) activation in JB6 Cl 41 cells harboring NFkappaB reporter plasmid. To our knowledge this is the first report that TPA inhibits chemical carcinogen-induced NFkappaB activation. Interference of TPA with BPDE-induced NFkappaB activation implicates abrogation of p53 function which has been discussed. Overall, our data suggest that abrogation of BPDE-induced p53 response and of NFkappaB activation by TPA is mediated by impairment of the signaling pathway involving p38 MAPK.
Large-Scale Deterministic Predictions of Nonlinear Ocean Wave-Fields

A direct phase-resolved simulation tool for nonlinear ocean surface wave-field evolution, which is named SNOW (simulation of nonlinear ocean wave-fields), is applied to under the dynamics and to obtain a reliable prediction of realistic ocean waves. Unlike the phase-averaged approach, SNOW solves the primitive Euler equation, preserves the phases of the wave-field during its nonlinear evolution, and accounts for the effects of the complex physical processes (such as wave breaking and wind input) in a direct physics-based way. Therefore, the detailed descriptions of the free surface and the kinematics/dynamics of the wave-field are obtained with SNOW. In this work, we focus on the understanding of the characteristics and occurrence statistics of rogue wave events and the development and validation of a novel capability for deterministic prediction of such wave events in realistic ocean environments. Specifically, our study shows that the inclusion of nonlinear wave-wave interactions is critical for the prediction of rogue wave occurrence especially in sea states with relatively narrow wave spectrum bandwidth and narrow directional spreading angle. Moreover, it is found that nonlinear coupling between swell and wind waves in crossing sea states can significantly increase the occurrence of rogue wave events. In addition, we demonstrate and validate the capability of phased-resolved reconstruction and forecasting of realistic ocean wave-field evolution by the use of hybrid radar/wave-probe sensed wave data with SNOW simulations.
The concept of a linguistic variable and its application to approximate reasoning—II☆

One of the fundamental tenets of modern science is that a phenomenon cannot be claimed to be well understood until it can be characterized in quantitative terms.l Viewed in this perspective, much of what constitutes the core of scientific knowledge may be regarded as a reservoir of concepts and techniques which can be drawn upon to construct mathematical models of various types of systems and thereby yield quantitative information concerning their behavior.
Long‐term effectiveness of diet‐plus‐exercise interventions vs. diet‐only interventions for weight loss: a meta‐analysis

Summary Diet and exercise are two of the commonest strategies to reduce weight. Whether a diet-plus-exercise intervention is more effective for weight loss than a diet-only intervention in the long-term has not been conclusively established. The objective of this study was to systemically review the effect of diet-plus-exercise interventions vs. diet-only interventions on both long-term and short-term weight loss. Studies were retrieved by searching MEDLINE and Cochrane Library (1966 – June 2008). Studies were included if they were randomized controlled trials comparing the effect of diet-plus-exercise interventions vs. diet-only interventions on weight loss for a minimum of 6 months among obese or overweight adults. Eighteen studies met our inclusion criteria. Data were independently extracted by two investigators using a standardized protocol. We found that the overall standardized mean differences between diet-plus-exercise interventions and diet-only interventions at the end of follow-up were −0.25 (95% confidence interval [CI]−0.36 to −0.14), with a P-value for heterogeneity of 0.4. Because there were two outcome measurements, weight (kg) and body mass index (kg m−2), we also stratified the results by weight and body mass index outcome. The pooled weight loss was 1.14 kg (95% CI 0.21 to 2.07) or 0.50 kg m−2 (95% CI 0.21 to 0.79) greater for the diet-plus-exercise group than the diet-only group. We did not detect significant heterogeneity in either stratum. Even in studies lasting 2 years or longer, diet-plus-exercise interventions provided significantly greater weight loss than diet-only interventions. In summary, a combined diet-plus-exercise programme provided greater long-term weight loss than a diet-only programme. However, both diet-only and diet-plus-exercise programmes are associated with partial weight regain, and future studies should explore better strategies to limit weight regain and achieve greater long-term weight loss.
Betel: Consumption and consequences☆☆☆★★★

Betel is a compound of natural substances chewed for its psychostimulating effects. Betel is composed of the nut of the areca palm (Areca catechu), the leaf of the betel pepper (Piper betle), and lime (calcium hydroxide). Approximately 200 million persons chew betel regularly throughout the western Pacific basin and south Asia. Only three drugs (nicotine, ethanol, and caffeine) are consumed more widely than betel. When betel is chewed, it produces mild psychoactive and cholinergic effects. There is copious production of a blood-red saliva that can stain oral structures. After years of chewing, the teeth may become red-brown to nearly black. Betel use is associated with oral leukoplakia, submucous fibrosis, and squamous cell carcinoma. Use of betel is discouraged in Western countries because of its alleged carcinogenic and perceived dysesthetic properties; nevertheless, betel is widely available in the West.
Sympathy and Personal Distress: Development, Gender Differences, and Interrelations of Indexes.

In summary, in our multimethod research concerning vicariously induced emotion, we have obtained several patterns of importance. First, we have obtained modest differences in facial and self-report indexes of emotion, nearly all indicating greater responsivity by females. Moreover, some of the data suggest that this gender difference increases with age. Second, we have found that facial indexes of negative emotion are stronger for younger than older persons and that older children's self-reports of emotion are somewhat more consistent with the context than are those of young children. Finally, although we have not obtained strong or consistent relations among our physiological, self-report, and facial indexes of emotion, those that have been obtained suggest a positive relation among indexes, one that appears to be stronger for younger than older persons (especially girls). Further research confirming these patterns of findings is needed; nonetheless, the preliminary data can be viewed as indicating that a multimethod approach to studying empathy is useful for increasing our understanding of empathy, sympathy, and personal distress reactions and their development.
COMMUNITY METABOLISM DURING EARLY DEVELOPMENT OF A RESTORED WETLAND

Abstract Productivity is an important ecological function of any natural system and may be quite high in wetlands. Restoration of productive wetlands may play a key role in re-establishing ecological function to portions of the vast areas of wetlands (roughly 86%) drained and otherwise altered in the United States over the past two centuries. A restored wetland at the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge (upstate New York, USA) was examined to determine if ecological function (i.e., productivity), as well as biotic structure, was restored. Physicochemical conditions and both aquatic and terrestrial productivity were measured at the restoration site and compared with rates and conditions in a reference wetland. Gross aquatic community production rates (based on diurnal oxygen curves) were similar at each site (1,679 and 2,311 g O2 · m−2 · yr−1) and within the range expected for the habitat. Terrestrial Net Aboveground Primary Production rates (measured by monthly biomass changes) (2,400 and 2,500 g dry wt. ·...
5. Photometry and Radiometry

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses photometry and radiometry. The practice of radiometry deals with the calculation of radiation from objects of interest, in optical systems, and on detectors, and with the measurement of various radiometric quantities on both a relative and absolute basis. All equilibrium radiation problems can begin with a consideration of the famous blackbody distribution first described by Planck. The angular, spatial, and areal characteristics of real bodies can then be expressed in terms of an efficiency factor, the emissivity that multiplies a blackbody function to obtain the true flux characteristics. Several important laws of radiation distribution and transfer apply to the blackbody idealization, and most experimental situations can be modelled with only minor variations from these laws. An area of radiation transfer that is becoming increasingly important is transfer in partially transparent media. The new techniques of sounding the atmosphere from satellites to infer temperature and of probing media like molten glass depend upon this theory. The chapter also provides overview concerning the nature of Lambertian radiators.
Assessing Eating Pathology in Hispanic Americans

Eating pathology can be found among Hispanic Americans at comparable rates to Caucasians. Despite this, little research on the assessment of eating pathology in Hispanic Americans exists. This review provides a thorough review of the literature on select clinical interviews and paper and pencil questionnaires related to eating pathology in Hispanic Americans, and provides the relevant information for researchers and practitioners to assist their decision making process when using assessments. Cultural considerations, norms for measures, limits of the existing literature, and future research are also discussed. Thus, this review serves as a basic tool for clinicians and researchers alike interested in eating pathology in Hispanic Americans.
Near-surface geophysical investigation of the 2010 Haiti earthquake epicentral area: Léogâne, Haiti

The ![Formula][1] Leogâne fan delta in southwestern Haiti borders the epicentral region of the devastating magnitude 7.0 Haiti earthquake of 12 January 2010. The flat plain of the Leogâne area experienced some of the worst shaking, destruction of buildings, and loss of life caused by the Haiti earthquake. This intense shaking was attributed by previous workers to either activation of a blind (no surface expression) thrust fault some 4 km beneath the Leogâne fan delta or to strike-slip motion along a shallow, ground-breaking fault that ruptured the uppermost part of the fan delta. Our research team from the University of Houston and the Haiti Bureau of Mines and Energy collected shallow seismic and gravity data in the fan delta where previous studies of earthquake aftershocks, coastal uplift of coral reefs, and radar interferometry all indicated a maximum amount of coseismic uplift. Our objective was to acquire geophysical information on the subsurface stratigraphy, structure, and material properties of the fan. S-wave seismic studies revealed an average velocity of ![Formula][2] for the first 30 m. These velocity values suggest that the near-surface sediments at Leogâne are a seismically hazardous class D sediment type (National Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program). Interpretation of our various seismic data sets has indicated prolonged sedimentary environments of fluvial channeling and channel migration to a depth of approximately 350 m as expected in this fan delta setting. There was no clear evidence on our seismic reflection lines for substantial faulting in the seismically slow, shallow fan delta sediments. Integrated geophysical data analyses indicated south-dipping seismically slow layers on the southern end of the Leogâne fan with a less well defined northward dip with the broad, anticlinal axis aligned with the area of maximum coseismic uplift at the coast. The sudden, coseismic upheaval of the ground surface above the proposed blind thrust combined with extreme shaking of the seismically weak sediments contributed to the destructiveness of the earthquake on the Leogâne fan delta. [1]: /embed/mml-math-1.gif [2]: /embed/mml-math-2.gif
Suppression of Pecan Weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) Populations with Entomopathogenic Fungi

Field and greenhouse trials using entomogenous fungi to control pecan weevil populations demonstrated 72 and 49.8% mortality of adults after exposure to Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae inoculum, respectively. In addition 44.4 and 27.8%, respectively, of untreated adult weevils developed the disease when caged with a single adult contaminated with either pathogen. Larval mortality of 29.6% for B. bassiana and 6.0% for M. anisopliae was achieved with soil-applied inoculum.
Experimental Investigation of Slotted Airfoil Performance with Modified Slot Configurations

The purpose of this experiment is to determine the effects of various slot configurations on the stall angle of attack for an airfoil similar to the NACA 653-618. The slot was used in an attempt to energize the boundary layer on the upper surface of the airfoil with high-velocity flow in order to keep the flow attached and consequently delay stall. A slotted airfoil design, constructed using mahogany and modeled from the NACA 653-618 airfoil, was tested to investigate the effect of a slot on lift and drag data. The test plan included experimentation on the following three airfoil configurations: a solid airfoil, a small slot configuration, and a large slot configuration. The experiments included collecting force balance and flow visualization data. Results indicate lift coefficients for the slotted airfoils are higher than the solid airfoil for all angles of attack greater than 15o. Below 15o, however, the slotted airfoils generate less lift. Data indicated that drag coefficients for the slotted airfoils were generally lower than those of the solid airfoil at low angles of attack. At angles of attack greater than 25o, the small slotted-airfoil generates significantly less drag than the other two airfoils. These trends in force balance data were corroborated by stall patterns determined using flow visualization tufts.
Probability of survival after coronary bypass surgery in Veterans Administration and community hospitals.

The survival of patients undergoing coronary bypass during the years 1972 to 1976 in Wadsworth Veterans Administration (VA-W) and community hospitals (CH) was analyzed. Base-line characteristics revealed that VA patients were younger (p
GABAergic Interneurons in the Neocortex: From Cellular Properties to Circuits

Cortical networks are composed of glutamatergic excitatory projection neurons and local GABAergic inhibitory interneurons that gate signal flow and sculpt network dynamics. Although they represent a minority of the total neocortical neuronal population, GABAergic interneurons are highly heterogeneous, forming functional classes based on their morphological, electrophysiological, and molecular features, as well as connectivity and in vivo patterns of activity. Here we review our current understanding of neocortical interneuron diversity and the properties that distinguish cell types. We then discuss how the involvement of multiple cell types, each with a specific set of cellular properties, plays a crucial role in diversifying and increasing the computational power of a relatively small number of simple circuit motifs forming cortical networks. We illustrate how recent advances in the field have shed light onto the mechanisms by which GABAergic inhibition contributes to network operations.
Recent Progress in E-Beam Lithography for SEM Patterning

An improved e-beam lithography technique has been developed to generate a high quality micro/nano-scale random speckle pattern on various specimens for metrology and characterization of specimens using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images with Digital Image Correlation (DIC) for image analysis. In this application, a mathematical algorithm has been integrated into the e-beam control system to greatly reduce the time for etching a dual-layer photo-resist coating to obtain a random distribution with optimal size distribution in the resulting pattern. It was determined that the thickness of photo-resist must be carefully controlled to obtain the desired pattern spot size after completing the development process. The resulting beam lithography technique has been employed by the authors to obtain high quality Au random pattern ranging from 150nm to 500nm on Al and Si specimens.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Mechanical Interactions of Proppant and Hydraulic Fractures

Hydraulic fracturing has recently received a great amount of attention not only for its economic importance but also for its potential environmental impact. The basic intention of the hydraulic fracturing process is to increase the productivity of the stimulated well by maximizing the reservoir’s permeability, but the permeability of the fractured reservoir is strongly affected by the apertures of the fractures. Proppants are often utilized during hydraulic fracturing to aid the retention of the fracture aperture, and laboratory experiments and field observations have shown a strong correlation between the volume of proppant deployed in hydraulic fracturing operations and reservoir productivity. However, the factors controlling proppant performance in real rock fractures are still poorly understood. Considering the high cost of a hydraulic fracturing treatment, a more informed selection of design parameters, such as proppant size, shape, concentration and properties, fracture fluid viscosity, and pumping schedule is needed. A better understanding of the behavior of fluid and proppant within a fracture and their relationship to fracture conductivity is of great practical interest. The goal of this chapter is to provide a summary of recent experimental and numerical investigations on the interactions of proppant and hydraulic fractures.
Nitrogen Dynamics of Strawberry Cultivation in Vermicompost-Amended Systems

The use of vermicompost as a soil amendment is suggested as a method to reduce nitrogen (N) losses in crop production; however, it is unclear whether and how vermicompost can affect water quality a...