cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Preferential development of Th17 cells in offspring of immunostimulated pregnant mice

Pregnant mice were stimulated at day 12 of gestation with the nucleotide poly(I:C). At 24h after stimulation, serum levels of maternal cytokines were measured, and at postnatal ages 2 and 3 weeks, offspring were analyzed for T helper (Th) cell subsets. Lymphocytes from offspring of poly(I:C)-injected (vs. control PBS-injected) pregnant dams preferentially developed into T helper 17 (Th17) cells upon in vitro activation. This occurred in offspring of pregnant dams who exhibited an immunological "memory" phenotype, but not in offspring of immunologically "naive" dams. Preferential development of Th17 cells in these offspring may be facilitated by the higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, found in immune vs. naive pregnant dams. Murine immune stimulation during pregnancy is frequently used to model human neurological disorders, such as autism and schizophrenia. However, immune stimulation of women during pregnancy occurs in the context of an immunological "memory" phenotype, resulting from previous immunizations and/or natural exposure to micro-organisms and other antigens. Therefore, use of previously immunized female mice with a similar immunological memory phenotype to study maternal immune stimulation during pregnancy presents a more biologically relevant experimental strategy to investigate developmental, behavioral, and immunological sequelae of offspring in such rodent models.
Statistical values, quality, and certification

Abstract Certification of statistical practitioners has been under consideration by the American Statistical Association. This article discusses, through a series of examples, some problematic aspects of statistical practice that certification can help to ameliorate. An optional, limited certification program is advocated as an indirect mechanism for communicating values, concerning the validity of information and responsible use of data, which are not widely understood or attributed to the profession by society at large. How society perceives the roles and professional values of statisticians may be more important to the future of statistics than specific technical issues of practice.
Herpesvirus induced feline urolithiasis--a review.

Abstract Three viruses were isolated during early studies of feline urolithiasis. These viruses were: feline calicivirus, feline syncytium forming virus (FeSFV), and a previously undescribed cell associated herpesvirus (CAHV). Urolithiasis in all its manifestations (hematuria, urethral obstruction, and cystitis) has been reproduced in specific pathogen free (SPF) male cats following inoculation with the herpesvirus alone. The disease has not been induced in SPF cats with the calicivirus alone. However, when SPF cats were inoculated with both the CAHV and calicivirus, clinical signs of disease developed earlier and more urinary tract disease complications were produced. From these results, it is postulated that the calicivirus may act as an enhancing or complicating factor in the development of the disease. Because urolithiasis was produced in SPF cats without the FeSFV, it is further postulated that this virus either may have no role in pathogenesis of the disease, or it too may produce secondary complications.
Carbon nanotube field effect transistor-based content addressable memory architectures

The authors investigate the use of carbon nanotube-based field effect transistors for the design of content addressable memory (CAM). An alternate design of a ternary content addressable memory (3CAM) using three-valued circuit structures is presented and it has been shown that the new design can lead to a 25% savings in area with no loss in search speed.
Phenomenological reduction and Christian spirituality

(1967). Phenomenological reduction and Christian spirituality. Pacific Philosophy Forum: Vol. 5, No. 3, pp. 87-89.
The photoelectric threshold, work function, and surface barrier potential of single‐crystal cuprous oxide

The properties of real surfaces of (111) single-crystal Cu2O samples, prepared by quenching after equilibration at various oxygen pressures and at a temperature of 750 or 960 °C, were investigated using photoelectric emission, contact potential difference, and electrical conductivity measurements. The measurements yielded the photoelectric threshold Φ, work function φ, and bulk Fermi level (EF−Ev)b from which the surface barrier potential qVs could be calculated. These parameters showed no systematic variation with respect to sample equilibration conditions. Mean values of Φ, φ, (EF−Ev)b and qVs were found to be 5.21, 4.70, 0.40, and +0.05 eV, respectively. The surface barrier potentials which were observed indicate that the Cu2O surfaces, as prepared here, were close to, or in, a flat-band condition. An analytical comparison of various surface and bulk models of Cu2O which could give rise to such a condition showed that the results are most readily interpreted in terms of a self-compensated semiconductor. Los proprietes des surfaces reelles (111) des echantillons de Cu2O preparees par refroidissement rapide apres equilibration a des pressions diverses d'oxygene et a la temperature de 750 ou 950 °C, ont ete etudiees en utilisant les methodes de photoemission, de potential de contact et de conductibilite electrique. Les mesures ont donne le seuil photoelectrique Φ, le travail de sortie φ, et le niveau de Fermi en volume (EF−Ev)b a partir desquels la valeur qVs de la barriere de surface pent ětre calculee. Ces parametres ont montre qu'il n'y a pas de variations systematiques dǔes aux conditions d'equilibration des echantillons. Les valeurs moyennes de Φ;, φ, (EF−Ev)b ont ete 5,21, 4,76, 0,40 et +0,05 eV, respectivement. Les potentials de la couche de barrage superficielle qu'on a trouves indiquent que les surfaces de Cu2O, apres les preparations donnees, sont presque en condition de bande plate. Une comparison entre les modeles de surface et de volume qui peuvent expliquer cette condition a montre que les resultats sont explicable le mieux sous forme d'un semiconductor compense.
Optimal material control in an assembly system with component commonality

Allocation of scarce common components to finished product orders is central to the performance of assembly systems. Analysis of these systems is complex, however, when the product master schedule is subject to uncertainty. In this paper, we analyze the cost—service performance of a component inventory system with correlated finished product demands, where component allocation is based on a fair shares method. Such issuing policies are used commonly in practice. We quantify the impact of component stocking policies on finished product delays due to component shortages and on product order completion rates. These results are used to determine optimal base stock levels for components, subject to constraints on finished product service (order completion rates). Our methodology can help managers of assembly systems to (1) understand the impact of their inventory management decisions on customer service, (2) achieve cost reductions by optimizing their inventory investments, and (3) evaluate supplier performance and negotiate contracts by quantifying the effect of delivery lead times on costs and customer service. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 48:409–429, 2001
A linear type system for multicore programming in ATS

In this day and age of multicore architectures, programming language support is in urgent need for constructing programs that can take great advantage of machines with multiple cores. We present in this paper an approach to safe multicore programming in ATS, a recently developed functional programming language that supports both linear and dependent types. In particular, we formalize a type system capable of guaranteeing safe manipulation of resources on multicore machines and establish its soundness. We also provide concrete examples as well as experimental results in support of the practicality of the presented approach to multicore programming.
The role of visualization in biomedicine

This work explores the Impact of the recent developments in the field of visualization on biomedical research and practice. It points out that visualization has the most impact on the areas of X-ray and tomography in medicine, and cell, virus, and tissue structure in biology. Visualization areas continuing to be beneficial to biomedical research and practice are Image processing and 3-D volume rendering. As for enhancing the utility of visualization methods, the use of visual perception in visualization is promising. Finally, continuing to enhance the efficiency and capabilities of visualization methods, software, and hardware is of prime importance to biomedical research and practice.
Cisco's corporate development portfolio: a blend of building, borrowing and buying

Purpose – This paper aims to present a case study of Cisco's corporate development approach which shows how the company built a powerful new business capability: the discipline of selecting the best pathways – build, borrow or buy – to follow when pursuing growth opportunities.Design/methodology/approach – In order for companies to achieve viable growth, business leaders must evaluate all three alternative pathways, which this paper looks into.Findings – The paper revelas that Cisco provides an excellent example of a company that has, over the years, learned how to develop the capability to use the full range of development modes.Research limitations/implications – This case is based on research for Build, Borrow or Buy: Solving the Growth Dilemma by Laurence Capron and Will Mitchell.Practical implications – In the way it blends all of the growth modes, Cisco demonstrates the value of top‐level leadership for what should be seen as an enterprise discipline: strategically coordinated building, borrowing an...
Enhanced immunogenicity of SIV Gag DNA vaccines encoding chimeric proteins containing a C-terminal segment of Listeriolysin O

We investigated the potential of the C-terminal 59-amino acid segment of Listeriolysin O (LLO) in enhancing immune responses against the SIV Gag antigen in the context of DNA immunization. Genes with codons optimized for mammalian expression were synthesized for the SIVmac239 Gag, a secreted SIV Gag protein with the tissue plasminogen antigen (tPA) signal fused to its N-terminus (tPA/Gag), as well as their corresponding chimeric proteins Gag/LLO and tPA/Gag/LLO containing the C-terminal 59 amino acids of LLO. Analysis of immune responses to these DNA constructs in a Balb/c mouse model showed that the Gag/LLO construct induced higher levels of both CD4 and CD8 T cell responses against SIV Gag, whereas the tPA/Gag construct induced higher levels of CD4 T cell responses. Moreover, immunization with the tPA/Gag/LLO construct further enhanced both CD4 and CD8 T cell responses. DNA constructs encoding secreted Gag proteins (tPA/Gag and tPA/Gag/LLO) were also more effective in eliciting antibody responses against SIV Gag. Our results demonstrate that the C-terminal segment of LLO can be effectively employed to enhance both cellular and humoral immune responses in the context of a DNA vaccine.
Pro-oxidant activity of Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase.

Whereas Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase (Cu,Zn-SOD) is an essential antioxidant enzyme for superoxide dismutation in vivo(1 ), many reports have shown that an elevated level of Cu,Zn-SOD induces cell killing (2, 3), increases lipid peroxidation (4, 5), and interferes with the transport of neurotransmitters (4, 6). All of these observations are archetypical results inducible by oxygen radicals. Cu,Zn-SOD (7) and FALS mutants (8) are known to develop neurodegeneration. These findings suggest that under certain conditions Cu,Zn-SOD may behave directly or indirectly as a pro-oxidant. In addition to the usual superoxide dismutation activity, Cu,Zn-SOD is known to exhibit anion binding capacity (9, 10), inactivation by its own reaction product H202 (11-13), and the purported peroxidase activity (14). Here we summarize our findings that Cu,Zn-SOD has free radical ('OH and scavenger-derived radicals)-generating activity (15, 16). TheactiveCu,Zn-SOD can catalyze the generation of free 9 radicals from H202. In the presence of H202 and radical scavengers, especially with anionic character, both free 9 radicals and scavenger-derived radicals are produced (15, 16). We also found that the free radical-generating function of several FALS-associated Cu,Zn-SOD mutants is enhanced relative to that of the wild-type enzyme, while the dismutation activities remain unchanged (17, 18). To monitor the production of free radicals, two spin traps, 5,5-dimethyl-l-pyrroline N-oxide (DMPO) and Ntert-butyl-c~-phenylnitrone (PBN), were used in our studies (15) to convert transient free radicals to stable free radicals adducts according to the following reactions:
FORMALIZATION OF OBJECT BEHAVIOR AND INTERACTIONS FROM UML MODELS

UML, being the industry standard as a common OO modeling language, needs a well-defined semantic base for its notation. Formalization of the graphical notation enables automated processing and analysis tasks. This paper describes a methodology for synthesis of a Petri net model from UML diagrams. The approach is based on deriving Object Net Models from UML statechart diagrams and connecting these object models based on UML collaboration diagram information. The resulting system-level Petri net model can be used as a foundation for formal Petri net analysis and simulation techniques. The methodology is illustrated on some small examples and a larger case study. The case study reveals some unexpected invalid system-state situations.
A Trait–Affect Model of Understanding Perceptions of Expert Witness Testimony

Previous literature has established the importance of understanding both expert witness characteristics associated with effective testimony, and individual differences in potential jurors that can influence perceptions of testimony. There seems to be a dearth of literature that considers personality and emotionality in this context, however. The present study merged these bodies of literature by proposing a trait-affect model conceptualized from Five-Factor Model personality and Need for Affect perspectives. Factor analytic procedures yielded the following three-factor trait–affect model: Emotional Intelligence, Emotion Dysregulation and Confidence. Structural equation model (SEM) analyses identified both the trait–affect factors of Emotion Dysregulation and Confidence, as well as ratings of expert witness credibility, as significant predictors of likelihood of recommending the death penalty. Contrary to expectation, expert credibility did not mediate the association of trait–affect factors on likelihood ...
Hypermanganesemia in patients receiving total parenteral nutrition.

Background: Manganese is one of the trace elements that is routinely administered to total parenteral nutrition (TPN) patients. The recommended daily IV dosage ranges from 100 to 800 μg. We have used 500 μg daily. Recent reports have suggested neurologic symptoms seen in some patients receiving home parenteral nutrition (HPN) may be due to hypermanganesemia. Therefore, HPN patients and some short-term inpatients receiving TPN were studied to ascertain the relationship between dose and blood levels. Methods: Red blood cell manganese levels were obtained by atomic absorptiometry. Results: The levels in 36 hospitalized, short-term patients obtained within 48 hours of initiating TPN were all normal. The 30 patients receiving TPN from 3 to 30 days had levels that ranged from 4.8 to 28 μg/L (normal, 11 to 23 μg/L). Two patients had abnormal levels, at days 14 and 18. Fifteen of the 21 patients receiving inpatient TPN or HPN for 36 to 5075 days had elevated Mn levels. Only one patient with hypermanganesemia, an ...
The electrochemical reduction of phenylglyoxylic acid in a magnetic field

Abstract Because of its potential importance, we have attempted to confirm a recent report that phenylglyoxylic acid (I) may be reduced electrochemically in a magnetic field to optically active mandelic acid (II), with optical yields of the l (+)-II enantiomer as high as 25%. We have found that the complete reduction of I in pH 3.8 buffer solution at a mercury cathode in magnetic fields of either 1400 or 70 500 Gauss led only to optically inactive samples of d,l -II.
The origin of urinary p-hydroxyphenylpyruvate in a patient with hepatic cytosol tyrosine aminotransferase deficiency

Abstract Results of renal clearance measurements of p-hydroxyphenylpyruvic acid in a a patient with tyrosine aminotransferase deficiency, phenylpyruvic acid in three phenylketonuric patients and imidazole pyruvic acid in a histidinemic patient are presented. Comparison with the corresponding creatinine clearances indicates net tubular secretion of p-hydroxyphenylpyruvic acid and imidazole pyruvic acid. Evidence is presented that phenylpyruvic acid may also be actively secreted by the renal tubules. These results, together with earlier studies on the tissue distribution of tyrosine aminotransferase and p-hydroxyphenylpyruvate hydroxylase, indicate that urinary pHPPA in our tyrosinemia patient and phenylpyruvic acid in phenylketonuria are of extra-renal and extra-hepatic origin.
Differential Contribution of Troponin I Phosphorylation Sites to the Endothelin-modulated Contractile Response

Cardiac troponin I is a phosphorylation target for endothelin-activated protein kinase C. Earlier work in cardiac myocytes expressing nonphosphorylatable slow skeletal troponin I provided evidence that protein kinase C-mediated cardiac troponin I phosphorylation accelerates relaxation. However, replacement with the slow skeletal isoform also alters the myofilament pH response and the Ca2+ transient, which could influence endothelin-mediated relaxation. Here, differences in the Ca2+ transient could not explain the divergent relaxation response to endothelin in myocytes expressing cardiac versus slow skeletal troponin I nor could activation of Na+/H+ exchange. Three separate clusters within cardiac troponin I are phosphorylated by protein kinase C, and we set out to determine the contribution of the Thr144 and Ser23/Ser24 clusters to the endothelin-mediated contractile response. Myocyte replacement with a cardiac troponin I containing a Thr144 substituted with the Pro residue found in slow skeletal troponin I resulted in prolonged relaxation in response to acute endothelin compared with control myocytes. Ser23/Ser24 also is a target for protein kinase C phosphorylation of purified cardiac troponin I, and although this cluster was not acutely phosphorylated in intact myocytes, significant phosphorylation developed within 1 h after adding endothelin. Replacement of Ser23/Ser24 with Ala indicated that this cluster contributes significantly to relaxation during more prolonged endothelin stimulation. Overall, results with these mutants provide evidence that Thr144 plays an important role in the acute acceleration of relaxation, whereas Ser23/Ser24 contributes to relaxation during more prolonged activation of protein kinase C by endothelin.
Urethane directly inhibits chemoreflex excitation of medullary vasomotor neurons in rats.

Abstract In anesthetized rats, stimulation of the arterial chemoreceptors excites reticulospinal vasomotor neurons of the nucleus rostroventrolateral reticularis of the medulla oblongata, via activating the neuronal NMDA receptors. Excitation of these neurons is responsible for reflex increases in sympathetic neuronal activity and arterial pressure. Additional doses (0.12–0.24 g/kg, i.v.) of urethane dose-dependently reduced the elevations in the discharge rate of reticulospinal vasomotor and sympathetic neurons and of arterial pressure, elicited by stimulating the carotid chemoreceptors with intra-carotid injections of sodium cyanide (100 nmol/10 μl), without affecting discharges of the carotid chemoafferents. Microiontophoresis of urethane onto the reticulospinal vasomotor neurons reversibly inhibited the excitation elicited by stimulation of the chemoreceptors and by iontophoretically applied L -glutamate. The results indicate that the suppression of chemoreflexes by excessive amount of urethane is central and one of its actions is blocking excitatory amino acid transmission onto these vasomotor neurons.
Interaction of Cimetidine with Oxazepam, Lorazepam, and Flurazepam

The influence of cimetidine coadministration, 300 mg every 6 hours, on the kinetics of single oral doses of oxazepam (30 mg), lorazepam (2 mg), and flurazepam (30 mg) was evaluated in healthy volunteers. Cimetidine had no significant effect on the peak plasma concentration or the time of peak concentration for either oxazepam, lorazepam, or desalkylflurazepam (formed from flurazepam). Cimetidine likewise did not alter the elimination half-life of oxazepam (9.4 hours) or lorazepam (11.6 hours), and did not change total AUC for lorazepam. Oxazepam AUC was increased an average of 10 per cent by cimetidine (P less than 0.02). In contrast, cimetidine prolonged desalkylflurazepam elimination half-life (141 vs. 94 hours, P less than 0.1) and increased AUC an average of 65 per cent (P less than 0.05). Thus, cimetidine has little or no influence on the absorption or disposition of oxazepam and lorazepam, two benzodiazepines biotransformed by glucuronide conjugation. However, cimetidine slows the elimination of flurazepam's metabolite, desalkylflurazepam, which is biotransformed by oxidation.
Multiple structurally distinct ERα mRNA variants in zebrafish are differentially expressed by tissue type, stage of development and estrogen exposure.

Abstract It is well established that estrogen-like environmental chemicals interact with the ligand-binding site of estrogen receptors (ERs) to disrupt transcriptional control of estrogen responsive targets. Here we investigate the possibility that estrogens also impact splicing decisions on estrogen responsive genes, such as that encoding ERα itself. Targeted PCR cloning was applied to identify six ERα mRNA variants in zebrafish. Sequencing revealed alternate use of transcription and translation start sites, multiple exon deletions, intron retention and alternate polyadenylation. As determined by quantitative (q)PCR, N-terminal mRNA variants predicting long (ERα L ) and short (ERα S ) isoforms were differentially expressed by tissue-type, sex, stage of development and estrogen exposure. Whereas ERα L mRNA was diffusely distributed in liver, brain, heart, eye, and gonads, ERα S mRNA was preferentially expressed in liver (female > male) and ovary. Neither ERα L nor ERα S transcripts varied significantly during development, but 17β-estradiol selectively increased accumulation of ERα S mRNA (∼170-fold by 120 hpf), an effect mimicked by bisphenol-A and diethylstilbestrol. Significantly, a C-truncated variant (ERα S -Cx) lacking most of the ligand binding and AF-2 domains was transcribed exclusively from the short isoform promoter and was similar to ERα S in its tissue-, stage- and estrogen inducible expression. These results support the idea that promoter choice and alternative splicing of the esr1 gene of zebrafish are part of the autoregulatory mechanism by which estrogen modulates subsequent ERα expression, and further suggest that environmental estrogens could exert some of their toxic effects by altering the relative abundance of structurally and functionally distinct ERα isoforms.
Effect of nicotine on the immune system: Possible regulation of immune responses by central and peripheral mechanisms

Nicotine (NT) treatment impairs T-cell receptor (TCR)-mediated signaling, leading to the arrest of T cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle and inhibition of the antibody plaque-forming cell (AFC) response to sheep red blood cells (SRBC). This paper summarizes some of the previous findings related to cigarette smoke/NT and the immune response, and presents preliminary evidence suggesting that mice chronically treated with NT (0.5 mg/day/kg body weight) have a depressed inflammatory response in the turpentine-induced abscess model of inflammation. This ability of nicotine to attenuate an inflammatory response may also be the cause of reduced mortality of chronically nicotine-treated mice from acute influenza A pneumonitis. Moreover, in LEW rats, decreased anti-SRBC AFC responses were also observed after intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of relatively small concentrations of NT (28 micrograms/day/kg body weight) which, when given peripherally, did not affect the AFC response. In vitro the addition of NT to T cells increased protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) activity and intracellular Ca2+ concentration [Ca2+]i. These results support the hypothesis that NT alters immune responses by directly interacting with T cells, as well as indirectly through brain-immune interactions.
Pressure-driven flow in a two-dimensional channel with porous walls

The finite-Reynolds-number two-dimensional flow in a channel bounded by a porous medium is studied numerically. The medium is modelled by aligned cylinders in a square or staggered arrangement. Detailed results on the flow structure and slip coefficient are reported. The hydrodynamic force and couple acting on the cylinder layer bounding the porous medium are also evaluated as a function of the Reynolds number. In particular, it is shown that, at finite Reynolds numbers, a lift force acts on the bodies, which may be significant for the mobilization of bottom sediments.
Quantitative digital subtraction radiography for the assessment of peri‐implant bone change

The purpose of this study was to develop a digital subtraction technique to assess peri-implant bone change. The method uses subtraction radiography to enhance visualization of the area of change that has occurred between radiographic examinations, and superimposes the area of change on the original radiographs. Furthermore, a reference wedge allows calculation of the mass of the lesion. The method was validated using 21 small bony chips placed on 3 different skulls prior to the first radiograph. The chips were removed, a second radiograph taken, and the images subtracted. A morphologic method was used to isolate the lesion and the change in bone mass calculated. Overall, there was excellent correlation between the calculated lesion mass (mg) and actual lesion mass (r2 > 0.90). The utility of the method was demonstrated using a case that experienced implant failure. These data indicate that quantitative digital subtraction radiography may be of value in measuring peri-implant bone change in root form implants.
Optimization of the Molecular Orbital Energies of Conjugated Polymers for Optical Amplification of Fluorescent Sensors

Cationic water-soluble poly(fluorene-co-phenylene)s with electron withdrawing or donating substituents on the conjugated backbone were designed and synthesized. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) experiments between these conjugated polymers and dye-labeled single-stranded DNA (ssDNA-C*) reveal the importance of matching donor and acceptor orbital energy levels to improve the sensitization of C* emission. Quenching of polymer fluorescence with ssDNA-C* and differences in C* emission suggest involvement of photoinduced charge transfer (PCT) as an energy wasting mechanism. The HOMO and LUMO energy levels of the conjugated polymers and C* serve as a preliminary basis to understand the competition between FRET and PCT. Dilution of C* in polymer/ssDNA-C* complexes by addition of ssDNA yields insight into C*···C* self-quenching. Under optimized conditions, where there is no probe self-quenching and minimum PCT, efficient signal amplification is demonstrated despite poor spectral overlap between polym...
On the solution of the PBE with agglomeration and random growth rate dispersion

Abstract Solutions to the population balance equation, with the diffusivity term added, for a steady-state MSMPR crystallizer with agglomeration are presented. These solutions are obtained using two different sets of boundary conditions, and are examined in detail to obtain information on the initial conditions. Furthermore, we suggest conditions that may be helpful in discriminating and/or choosing suitable models.
Wages, productivity, and costs in union and nonunion hospitals

This paper considers the effects of labor unions on the economic performance of hospitals. Two data sets are considered. The first includes 275 hospitals from 13 urban areas; the second includes 114 hospitals from Ohio. The analysis is designed to determine whether or not union-induced productivity improvements occur within the rather noncompetitive hospital market and questions whether or not there are cost differences between union and nonunion hospitals. On the question of productivity, both data sets indicate that positive effects occur in the hospital sector. The answer to the second question is less clear. The primary data set indicates that unionized hospitals actually have lower costs than their nonunion counterparts, while the Ohio sample indicates that unionized hospital costs are lower, but not significantly so.
Measurement of the Conditioned Eyelid Reflex

The magnitude of the conditioned eyelid reflex is defined as the integral of the amplitude over the time course of the blink. This measure is significantly related to the conventional measures of frequency, latency, and amplitude, but exhibits variance of its own which appears to reflect its greater sensitivity to the physiological processes underlying the blink.
Stimulus-evoked glutamate release is diminished by acute exposure to uranium in vitro.

Abstract Uranium is used in civilian applications, in the manufacture of nuclear fuel, and by the military for munitions and armament, but little information is available on its neurotoxicity. Neurological dysfunctions have been observed after chronic exposure in both animals and humans, but the actions of acute exposure on amino acid neurotransmission have not been investigated. The following study was performed to examine the effects of uranyl ion (UO 2 + 2 ) on hippocampal glutamatergic and GABAergic function as possible bases for the neurotoxicity and to assess the direct effects on the exocytotic process. Nominal UO 2 + 2 concentrations were applied to superfused hippocampal synaptosomes to permit estimation of the metal's potency on endogenous transmitter release in the presence and absence of Ca + 2 . K + -evoked glutamate release was diminished in the range of 10 nM–316 μM UO 2 + 2 , resulting in an IC 50 of 1.92 μM. In contrast, the potency of UO 2 + 2 to decrease stimulated GABA release was reduced, producing an IC 50 ≈ 2.6 mM. In the absence of Ca + 2 in the superfusion medium there was no systematic change in the magnitude of glutamate or GABA release, suggesting that UO 2 + 2 does not possess Ca + 2 -mimetic properties. The inhibitory potency of UO 2 + 2 on glutamate release is similar to the potencies of other multivalent metal ions, suggesting by inference an action exerted on voltage-sensitive Ca + 2 channels. The bases for the reduced potency to inhibit GABA release is not known, but differential sensitivity to other heavy metals has been reported for glutamate and GABA neurotransmission. These findings indicate a profile of neurotoxicity not unlike that of other metal ions, and indicate the importance of extending subsequent studies to chronic exposure models.
Spontaneous reconstitution of the mammalian intestinal tract following complete transection.

AbstractTo determine whether the mammalian intestinal tract is capable of reconstituting itself following complete transection, a 1-cm segment of the small or large bowel was excised in 44 rats. In an additional group of 52 rats the colon was transected distal to a diverting colostomy. In each case the open-cut ends of the intestine were simply dropped back into the peritoneal cavity and the abdominal incision was closed with sutures. Eight animals survived simple transection (18%) regaining functional intestinal continuity in 2 weeks and a morphologically normal appearing intestine in 1 month. When the colon was transected distal to a diverting colostomy the survival rate increased almost four-fold with complete reconstitution of the transected segment in 80% of the survivors.
Altered gene expression patterns of innate and adaptive immunity pathways in transgenic rainbow trout harboring Cecropin P1 transgene

We have recently developed several homozygous families of transgenic rainbow trout harbouring cecropin P1 transgene. These fish exhibit resistance characteristic to infection by Aeromonas salmonicida and infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV). In our earlier studies we have reported that treatment of a rainbow trout macrophage cell line (RTS11) with a linear cationic α-helical antimicrobial peptide (e.g., cecropin B) resulted in elevated levels of expression of two pro-inflammatory relevant genes (e.g., IL-1β and COX-2). Therefore, we hypothesized that in addition to the direct antimicrobial activity of cecropin P1 in the disease resistant transgenic rainbow trout, this antimicrobial peptide may also affect the expression of immune relevant genes in the host. To confirm this hypothesis, we launched a study to determine the global gene expression profiles in three immune competent organs of cecropin P1 transgenic rainbow trout by using a 44k salmonid microarray. From the microarray data, a total of 2480 genes in the spleen, 3022 in the kidney, and 2102 in the liver were determined as differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the cecropin P1 transgenic rainbow trout when compared to the non-transgenics. There were 478 DEGs in common among three tissues. Enrichment analyses conducted by two different bioinformatics tools revealed a tissue specific profile of functional pathway perturbation. Many of them were directly related to innate immune system such as phagocytosis, lysosomal processing, complement activation, antigen processing/presentation, and leukocyte migration. Perturbation of other biological functions that might contribute indirectly to host immunity was also observed. The gene product of cecropin P1 transgene produced in the disease resistant transgenic rainbow trout not only can kill the pathogens directly but also exert multifaceted immunomodulatory properties to boost host immunity. The identified genes involved in different pathways related to immune function are valuable indicators associated with enhanced host immunity. These genes may serve as markers for selective breeding of rainbow trout or other aquaculture important fish species bearing traits of disease resistance.
OPTIMAL DECISIONS WITH LINEAR RANDOM PAYOFF

This paper provides a unified analysis of decision under uncertainty with payoffs that are linear in the random variable. This class involves additive as well as multiplicative risks and is widely used in the literature. The total effect of an increase in risk on choice is decomposed into an income effect and a substitution effect. Properties of preferences that control the sign of these effects are identified.
ADC mapping of chronic cerebral hypoperfusion induced by carotid artery stenosis.

Summary Background Carotid artery stenosis is associated with the occurrence of acute and chronic ischemic lesions that increase with age in the elderly population. Diffusion Imaging and ADC mapping may be an appropriate method to investigate patients with chronic hypoperfusion consecutive to carotid stenosis. This non-invasive technique allows to investigate brain integrity and structure, in particular hypoperfusion induced by carotid stenosis diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a carotid stenosis on the parenchyma using ADC mapping. Methods Fifty-nine patients with symptomatic (33) and asymptomatic (26) carotid stenosis were recruited from our multidisciplinary consultation. Both groups demonstrated a similar degree of stenosis. All patients underwent MRI of the brain including diffusion-weighted MR imaging with ADC mapping. Regions of interest were defined in the anterior and posterior paraventricular regions both ipsilateral and contralateral to the stenosis (anterior circulation). The same analysis was performed for the thalamic and occipital regions (posterior circulation). Results ADC values of the affected vascular territory were significantly higher on the side of the stenosis in the periventricular anterior (P Conclusions We have shown that carotid stenosis is associated with significantly higher ADC values in the anterior circulation, probably reflecting an impact of chronic hypoperfusion on the brain parenchyma in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. This is consistent with previous data in the literature.
β-Galactosidases in Ripening Tomatoes

Tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) contained a high level of beta-galactosidase activity which was due to three forms of the enzyme. During tomato ripening, the sum of their activities remained relatively constant, but the levels of the individual forms of beta-galactosidase changed markedly. The three enzymes were separated by a combination of chromatography of DEAE-Sephadex A-50 and Sephadex G-100. During ripening of tomatoes, beta-galactosidases I and III levels decreased but the beta-galactosidase II level increased more than 3-fold. The three enzymes were optimally active near pH 4, and all were inhibited by galactose and galactonolactone. However, the enzymes differed in molecular weight, K(m) value with p-nitrophenyl-beta-galactoside, and stability with respect to pH and temperature. beta-Galactosidase II was the only enzyme capable of hydrolyzing a polysaccharide that was isolated from tomatoes and that consisted primarily of beta-1, 4-linked galactose. The ability of beta-galactosidase II to degrade the galactan and the increase in its activity during tomato ripening suggest a possible role for this enzyme in tomato softening.
OBSERVATION OF AN ELECTRON-WAVE-FUNCTION COHERENCE LENGTH APPROACHING THE THEORETICAL LIMIT IN A NEARLY IDEAL SEMICONDUCTOR-ALLOY SUPERLATTICE

Differential photoconductance measurements are used to observe oblique optical transitions between Stark-localized states spanning up to 14 periods in a 30-\AA{} ${\mathrm{In}}_{0.53}$${\mathrm{Ga}}_{0.47}$As/20-\AA{} ${\mathrm{In}}_{0.52}$${\mathrm{Al}}_{0.48}$As superlattice. The conduction-band wave-function coherence length is thus deduced to be 1450 \AA{}, which is consistent with Stark-ladder formation when the well-to-well potential drop is about the size of the alloy-broadened linewidth. The 2-K photoluminescence linewidth agrees with the minimum calculated for a perfectly random distribution of atoms on the group III sublattice.
Oncoplastic mammoplasty as a strategy for reducing reconstructive complications associated with postmastectomy radiation therapy.

Given the high complication rates in patients who require radiation therapy (XRT) after mastectomy and immediate reconstruction, and the low local recurrence rates following neo-adjuvant chemotherapy and breast conservation therapy, we sought to determine if using neo-adjuvant chemotherapy and oncoplastic mammoplasty as an alternative to mastectomy and immediate reconstruction is an effective strategy for reducing complication rates in the setting of XRT. A prospectively maintained data base was queried for patients who received neo-adjuvant chemotherapy and XRT between 2001 and 2010 and underwent either oncoplastic mammoplasty or mastectomy with immediate reconstruction. Rates of postoperative complications between groups were compared using Fisher's exact test. Outcomes from 37 patients who underwent oncoplastic mammoplasty were compared to 64 patients who underwent mastectomy with immediate reconstruction. Mean follow-up was 33 months (range 4-116 months). Rates of postoperative complications, including unplanned operative intervention for a reconstructive complication (2.7% versus 37.5%, p < 0.001), skin flap necrosis (10.8% versus 29.7%, p = 0.05), and infection (16.2% versus 35.9, p = 0.04) were significantly higher in the mastectomy group. Overall, 45.3% of patients who underwent mastectomy developed at least one breast complication, compared to 18.9% of patients who underwent oncoplastic mammoplasty (p = 0.01). If XRT is indicated after mastectomy, attempts should be made to achieve breast conservation through the use of neo-adjuvant therapy and oncoplastic surgery in order to optimize surgical outcomes. Breast conservation with oncoplastic reconstruction does not compromise oncologic outcome, but significantly reduces complications compared to postmastectomy reconstruction followed by XRT.
Noise in field emission diodes

Abstract Measurements are reported on noise in field emission vavuum diodes. In some devices the noise spectrum is of the type Ieq = (Ia + A/fα), whereas in other devices is of the type I eq = (I a 1 2 + A 1 2 /f α/2 ) 2 ; in most cases α is close to 3 2 . The first type of noise can be interpreted as the result of two independent noise sources, excess noise and shot noise, speculations are made about the second typw of noise. In many cases the excess noise spectrum is levelling off below 10 cycles. The excess noise is interpreted in terms of work function fluctuations governed by a diffusion of atoms over the surface. This gives a 1/f 3 2 spectrum at high frequencies whereas the spectrum levels off at low frequencies. The experimental turnover frequency agrees roughly with the theoretical predictions. The theory can also explain the temperature dependence of the field emission excess noise found by Kleint.
Comparison of methods for the removal of diagenetic material in buried bone

Abstract Three excavated human femurs from the Middle Woodland Gibson site in West Central Illinois and six from the Late Intermediate Estuquina site in Peru have been subjected to four different cleaning procedures prior to elemental analysis. (A) Simple brushing and washing with distilled water. (B) Physical removal of 1–3 mm of both the outer and the inner surfaces by abrasion. (C) Treatment of powdered bone with 1 N acetic acid. (D) Sequential washing of powdered bone with acetate buffer. Analyses were carried out on subsequently ashed material. Levels of calcium, of organics, and of metallic soil constituents (iron, manganese, aluminium) give an overall indication of contamination and diagenesis. Physical abrasion (method B) is effective in removing bone surface contaminants, particularly iron, manganese, aluminium, potassium and zinc. Chemical procedures permit removal of diagenetic material throughout the bone but also remove some biogenic elements that are present on the surface of the bone crystals. Effects of biogenic constituents were tested by analysing rat pelvic bones that had been subjected to the same four procedures. A combination of physical abrasion and mild chemical washings may provide the best procedure for preparation of bone prior to analysis.
Educating physician assistants as agents in cancer control: issues and opportunities.

Background. Lifestyle factors (eg, smoking, diet) and compliance with screening recommendations play a role in cancer risk, and emerging technologies (eg, new vaccines, genetic testing) hold promise for improved risk management.Methods. However, optimal outcomes from cancer control efforts require better preparation of health professionals in risk assessment, risk communication, and implementing health behavioral change strategies that are vitally important to cancer control.Results and Conclusion. Although physician assistants (PAs) are substantively engaged in cancer-related service delivery in primary care settings, few models exist to facilitate integration of cancer control learning experiences into the curricula used in intense, fast-paced, 24- to 30-month PA training programs.
Current Perspectives on Women's Multiple Roles

An understanding of gender theory and processes provides a crucial framework for career assessment and adjustment regardless of how individual women may vary in their visions for occupational work and family life. Across cultures, social systems operate in similar ways to "structure the psyches of both sexes to reproduce their desired ideal types, and they do so by controlling what can be thought and felt" (Ker Conway, 1994, p. 152). This article centers around an understanding of the active processes of reproducing gender through societal language and discourses and how such processes can inhibit multiple role involvement and role sharing for women in modern dual-earner families. Two discourses particularly influential in the "doing of gender" are described, and these are referred to as the "women and men as equals" discourse and the "men as incompetent care-givers" discourse. A segment from the popular television program Dateline, provides a powerful illustrative example. Finally, ways to disrupt gender...
Commentary a few can catch a liar, sometimes: Comments on Ekman and O'Sullivan (1991), as well as Ekman, O'Sullivan, and Frank (1999)

In two influential articles, Paul Ekman and associates have determined 'who can catch a liar' and reported that 'a few can catch a liar'. The current article seeks to clarify these contributions. It provides information that was not mentioned in Ekman's journal articles. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Language: en
What lessons should we learn from drive-through deliveries?

The first victim of the managed care backlash was rapid postpartum discharge, more commonly known as a “drive-through delivery.” The issue was framed as a morality play, with corporate greed on one side and the health and safety of mothers and infants on the other. When a few horrific anecdotes were added to this mix, legislators understandably concluded that drive-through deliveries were an abusive practice that needed to be halted. Between 1995 and 1997, 40-odd states and Congress enacted legislation requiring insurers to defer to physician preferences as to an appropriate postpartum length of stay, or to cover a minimum of 48 hours (vaginal delivery) or 96 hours (cesarean section) of postpartum hospitalization.1 Physician groups and individual physicians played a major role in the enactment of these laws, through testimony, lobbying, and critical commentary in news articles and medical journals. In testimony before Congress, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and the American Medical Association denounced drive-through deliveries. Pediatrics published an inflammatory commentary titled Early Discharge in the End: Maternal Abuse, Child Neglect, and Physician Harassment,2 and the New England Journal of Medicine published a slightly less inflammatory piece titled Women and Children First.3 This tone carried over into the political sphere; when legislation was debated in Congress, Senators from across the political spectrum condemned drive-through deliveries as “unconscionable” (Senators DeWine and Helms), and “scary” (Senator Biden), and suggested it was …
Interference from citrate using the Titan yellow method and two fluorometric methods for magnesium determination in plasma.

Abstract This study was undertaken to learn whether or not citrate interfered with the determination of magnesium in blood plasma by the Titan yellow method and by two fluorometric methods that employ 8-hydroxyquinoline or 8-hydroxy-5-quinolinesulfonate. A series of determinations of magnesium in human serum was made by these three methods and by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, which served as a reference. The results support the conclusion that the values for magnesium analyzed in citrated plasma by these three methods represent total plasma magnesium minus the interference from citrate.
The Use of the Jackknife to Estimate Proportions from Toxicological Data in the Presence of Litter Effects

Abstract The jackknifing methodology is proposed as a way of estimating and comparing proportions of affected fetuses in animal experiments. The estimate is a weighted average of the proportions in individual litters and is almost fully efficient in several cases of interest. The associated standard error is asymptotically correct for a wide range of possible models. Jackknife-based tests are shown to be competitive with other methods currently used.