cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Experimental wavelengths for intrashell transitions in tungsten ions with partially filled 3p and 3d subshells

Spectra and measured wavelengths of intrashell n = 3 transitions in highly charged tungsten ions with partially filled 3p and 3d valence shells, Al-like W61+ through Fe-like W48+, are presented. The ions were created and excited at the electron-beam ion-trap facility at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and measured with a high-resolution grazing-incidence spectrometer. The spectral lines were studied in the 27-41 angstrom range and were analyzed by a comparison with synthetic spectra based on a collisional-radiative model. We determined that the emission includes not only electric-dipole-allowed transitions, but also several electric-quadrupole and magnetic-dipole transitions. Line-position uncertainties as low as 25 ppm were achieved. Thus, our measurements provide much-needed benchmarks for calculations of the atomic structure of highly charged ions with a partially filled subshell, since these ions are difficult to calculate due to electron-correlation effects. (Less)
Coq6 Hydroxylase: Unmasked and Bypassed

Coenzyme Q is a polyisoprenylated benzoquinone lipid essential in cellular energy metabolism. Ozeir et al. (2011) show that an enzyme, Coq6, is required for the coenzyme Q C5-ring hydroxylation, and that defects in Coq6 can be bypassed by providing alternate ring precursors.
Percutaneous Image-Guided Ablation of Breast Tumors: An Overview

Percutaneous non-surgical image-guided ablation is emerging as an adjunct or alternative to surgery in the management of benign and malignant breast tumors. This review covers the current state of the literature regarding percutaneous image-guided ablation modalities, clinical factors regarding patient selection, and future directions for research.
MicroRNA-based discovery of barriers to dedifferentiation of fibroblasts to pluripotent stem cells

Individual microRNAs (miRNAs) can target hundreds of mRNAs forming networks of presumably cooperating genes. To test this presumption, we functionally screened miRNAs and their targets in the context of dedifferentiation of mouse fibroblasts to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Along with the miR-302-miR-294 family, the miR-181 family arose as a previously unidentified enhancer of the initiation phase of reprogramming. Endogenous miR-181 miRNAs were transiently elevated with the introduction of Pou5f1 (also known as Oct4), Sox2 and Klf4 (referred to as OSK), and miR-181 inhibition diminished iPSC colony formation. We tested the functional contribution of 114 individual targets of the two families, revealing 25 genes that normally suppress initiation. Coinhibition of targets cooperatively promoted both the frequency and kinetics of OSK-induced reprogramming. These data establish two of the largest functionally defined networks of miRNA-mRNA interactions and reveal previously unidentified relationships among genes that act together to suppress early stages of reprogramming.
A bayesiak comparison of some estimators used in linear regression with multicollinear data

Several Estimators (ridge, princlpal components, generalizedinverse and stein)have been proposed as alternatives to least squares fur the multiple linear regression model when the independent variables are multicollinear. These methods differ in the way they adjust the least squares estimate to where the regression vector “ought to be”. From a Bayesian point of view, they assume different prior distributions for .In this paper is expressed in such a way that the assumptions about the model which are implicit in a given prior distribution of become apparent. The Stein estimate can be viewed as assuming the independent variables to be “inherently multicollinear”, while the ridge estimate assumes they are not. Principal components and generalized inverse estimators correspond to a somewhat peculiar set of prior assumptions. A modification of the Stein estimate which is “smoother” than the principal components estimator is proposed.
Physiological states and intracardiac shunting in non-crocodilian reptiles

Historically, the evolution of the vertebrate heart was portrayed as a continuous progression from the two-chambered heart of fish to the completely divided, four-chambered heart of birds and mammals. The incompletely divided ventricle of non-crocodilian reptiles and the resulting central mixing of oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood (cardiac shunting) was viewed as an intermediate phylogenetic step that was functionally inefficient compared to the circulation of “higher” vertebrates. This perception changed when studies showed that the degree of mixing within the reptilian heart is influenced by the ventilatory state of the animal and is regulated by the autonomic nervous system. The ability to control cardiac shunts is hypothesized to provide several unique physiological advantages to reptiles and has given rise to the notion that cardiac shunting is a highly derived condition, representing a successful adaptation for animals with low metabolic rates and intermittent breathing patterns. The modern view of the reptilian circulation is based, to a large measure, on a relatively small number of observations during very specific types of behaviors or physiological states, being primarily restricted to the description of cardiovascular changes associated with intermittent lung ventilation. The goals of this review are to summarize the studies that have described cardiac shunting patterns in non-crocodilian reptiles during a variety of physiological states and to emphasize the need for additional research on this important group of vertebrates.
Feasible Introgression of an Anti-pathogen Transgene into an Urban Mosquito Population without Using Gene-Drive

Background Introgressing anti-pathogen constructs into wild vector populations could reduce disease transmission. It is generally assumed that such introgression would require linking an anti-pathogen gene with a selfish genetic element or similar technologies. Yet none of the proposed transgenic anti-pathogen gene-drive mechanisms are likely to be implemented as public health measures in the near future. Thus, much attention now focuses instead on transgenic strategies aimed at mosquito population suppression, an approach generally perceived to be practical. By contrast, aiming to replace vector competent mosquito populations with vector incompetent populations by releasing mosquitoes carrying a single anti-pathogen gene without a gene-drive mechanism is widely considered impractical. Methodology/Principal Findings Here we use Skeeter Buster, a previously published stochastic, spatially explicit model of Aedes aegypti to investigate whether a number of approaches for releasing mosquitoes with only an anti-pathogen construct would be efficient and effective in the tropical city of Iquitos, Peru. To assess the performance of such releases using realistic release numbers, we compare the transient and long-term effects of this strategy with two other genetic control strategies that have been developed in Ae. aegypti: release of a strain with female-specific lethality, and a strain with both female-specific lethality and an anti-pathogen gene. We find that releasing mosquitoes carrying only an anti-pathogen construct can substantially decrease vector competence of a natural population, even at release ratios well below that required for the two currently feasible alternatives that rely on population reduction. Finally, although current genetic control strategies based on population reduction are compromised by immigration of wild-type mosquitoes, releasing mosquitoes carrying only an anti-pathogen gene is considerably more robust to such immigration. Conclusions/Significance Contrary to the widely held view that transgenic control programs aimed at population replacement require linking an anti-pathogen gene to selfish genetic elements, we find releasing mosquitoes in numbers much smaller than those considered necessary for transgenic population reduction can result in comparatively rapid and robust population replacement. In light of this non-intuitive result, directing efforts to improve rearing capacity and logistical support for implementing releases, and reducing the fitness costs of existing recombinant technologies, may provide a viable, alternative route to introgressing anti-pathogen transgenes under field conditions.
Sustaining China’s Economic Growth: New Leaders, New Directions?

An American specialist on the economy of China assesses the options and obstacles the country's new leadership will face as it attempts to sustain the current economic growth trajectory in the future. Putting the current situation in historical context, the author first reviews the reforms leading up to the agenda advanced by the previous leadership team (led by Hu Jintao) and then examines the health of China's economy in late 2012 (a situation she argues is characterized by the exhaustion of three key drivers of growth). The paper advances the thesis that further reforms and improvements in technology will be essential to sustained growth, and that additional reforms will be necessary before sustained innovation can take root. As signs of successful further reform going forward, readers are advised to look to increased private-sector legitimacy, a decline in state-sector monopoly power, and strengthening of legal foundations for reform policies.
Loci affecting male fertility in hybrids between Mus macedonicus and C57BL/6.

Male F1 hybrids between inbred strains and Mus macedonicus have very small testes and are sterile. Cytological analysis of testes shows very few meioses. To determine the genetic basis for this sterility, (C57BL/6J × Mus macedonics) F1 females were mated to males from C57BL/10J. In about half the male progeny no meiosis I was observed. About half of the animals that progressed through meiosis I showed other indications of low fertility and the balance appeared fertile. QTL analysis of the progeny suggested that loci on proximal Chrs 17 and X were involved in the sterility and a locus on Chr X in variation of body weight. There is also evidence that X//Y dissociation of the pseudo-autosomal region occurs. The QTLs on Chrs X and 17 together account for about 37% of the variance for testis weight. Congenic lines B.MAC-X(1-38), and B.MAC-17(1-23) have been constructed using a modified speed congenic approach. Testis tubules from B.MAC-X(1-38) are narrow and vacuolated. They contain only Sertoli cells and mitotically dividing spermatogonia. Very occasionally a meiotic metaphase can be observed, but no sperm are produced. Homozygous males from B.MAC-17(1-23) are sterile, producing sperm heads but no complete sperm.
Dental Patients with Major Depressive Disorder

Major depressive disorder (MDD) affects approximately 14.8 million adults in the United States, which is about 6.7 % of the US population. MDD impacts most activities of daily living, including oral hygiene practices and use of dental resources. This review article provides information related to underlying mechanisms of disease, diagnosis, and treatment so that dentists may best address patients’ dental concerns in the context of underlying depression. Laboratory and psychological screening tools are also discussed in relation to specific practice recommendations for managing patients with MDD as well as identifying patients with underlying symptoms who may be at risk for MDD.
Aspirin augments carotid-cardiac baroreflex sensitivity during muscle mechanoreflex and metaboreflex activation in humans

Muscle mechanoreflex activation decreases the sensitivity of carotid baroreflex (CBR)-heart rate (HR) control during local metabolite accumulation in humans. However, the contribution of thromboxan...
Boarding inpatients in the emergency department increases discharged patient length of stay.

Abstract Background Boarding of inpatients in the Emergency Department (ED) has been widely recognized as a major contributor to ED crowding and a cause of adverse outcomes. We hypothesize that these deleterious effects extend to those patients who are discharged from the ED by increasing their length of stay (LOS). Study Objectives This study investigates the impact of boarding inpatients on the ED LOS of discharged patients. Methods This retrospective, observational, cohort study investigated the association between ED boarder burden and discharged patient LOS over a 3-year period in an urban, academic tertiary care ED. Median ED LOS of 179,840 discharged patients was calculated for each quartile of the boarder burden at time of arrival, and Spearman correlation coefficients were used to summarize the relationship. Subgroup analyses were conducted, stratified by patient acuity defined by triage designation, and hour of arrival. Results Overall median discharged patient ED LOS increased by boarder burden quartile (205 [95% confidence interval (CI) 203–207], 215 [95% CI 214–217], 221 [95% CI 219–223], and 221 [95% CI 219–223] min, respectively), with a Spearman correlation of 0.25 between daily total boarder burden hours and median LOS. When stratified by patient acuity and hour of arrival (11:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.), LOS of medium-acuity patients increased significantly by boarder burden quartile (252 [95% CI 247–255], 271 [95% CI 267–275], 285 [95% CI 95% CI 278–289], and 309 [95% CI 305–315] min, respectively) with a Spearman correlation of 0.18. Conclusion In this retrospective study, increasing boarder burden was associated with increasing LOS of patients discharged from the ED, with the greatest effect between 11:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. on medium-acuity patients. This relationship between LOS and ED capacity limitation by inpatient boarders has important implications, as ED and hospital leadership increasingly focus on ED LOS as a measure of efficiency and throughput.
Raising the general public’s awareness and adoption of open source software through social Q&A interactions

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the general public’s information needs concerning open source software (OSS) and OSS answerers’ motivations for sharing their knowledge of OSS in social Q&A. Design/methodology/approach – Two studies were carried out. In Study 1, a content analysis classifying OSS-related questions posted during December 2005-December 2012 in Yahoo! Answers was employed to investigate the general public’s information needs regarding OSS. In Study 2, an online survey was conducted with OSS answerers in Yahoo! Answers in order to examine what motivates them to share and continue to share their knowledge of OSS in social Q&A. In total, 1,463 invitations were sent out via Yahoo! Answers’ internal e-mail function to those who provided answers to OSS-related questions during September 2009-September 2012. In total, 150 usable surveys were returned and used for data analysis. Findings – The findings from Study 1 indicate that the general public is most interested in finding out i...
A randomized controlled trial of the effect of third-trimester calcium supplementation on maternal hemodynamic function.

Objective: To determine the effect of third-trimester calcium supplementation on maternal hemodynamic function. Methods: Pregnant women were randomized to receive either 1.5 g of elemental calcium or placebo for 6 weeks during the third trimester. Using Doppler technique, maternal hemodynamic characteristics were measured at baseline, at 2 hours after the first dose of study drug, and at the completion of 6 weeks. Serum, dietary, and urinary calcium levels were also assessed. Power calculation indicated the need to study ten subjects in each group to detect a 1.2 L (20%) difference in cardiac output between groups, assuming a mean of 6.2 ± 1.0 L/minute. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance for repeated measures, Student t test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Fisher exact test. Results: Twenty-three women enrolled, and 18 completed the study. There were no statistically significant differences in demographic characteristics or in serum, dietary, or urinary calcium levels between the two groups. There were also no statistically significant differences in hemodynamic function over time within the calcium supplementation or placebo group ( P > .05; analysis of variance for repeated measures). After 6 weeks, there were no significant differences between the calcium- and placebo-treated subjects in any hemodynamic measurement. Specifically, there was not a statistically significant difference in cardiac output (7.3 ± 1.2 L/minute versus 8.0 ± 0.9 L/minute; P = .09) between the calcium- and placebo-treated groups. Conclusion: These findings suggest that third-trimester calcium supplementation does not significantly alter cardiac output. The mechanism by which calcium supplementation lowers blood pressure remains to be elucidated.
Relation of serum total cholesterol, C-reactive protein levels, and statin therapy to survival in heart failure.

Although increased cholesterol levels predict mortality in patients with coronary artery disease, it is unclear whether hypercholesterolemia is associated with adverse survival in patients with heart failure. A cohort of subjects derived from the Intermountain Heart Collaborative Study Registry (1993 to 2003) who had ejection fractions 201.0 mg/dl. Multivariate Cox regression models were used to evaluate the associations of cholesterol, statin therapy, and C-reactive protein to mortality. The mean age was 65.5 years; 65% of the subjects were men and 65% had coronary artery disease. Although 53% were using statins, statin use was not different across TC quartiles. Average time to death was 2.4 years (maximum 10). Mortality for quartile 4 versus quartile 1 was not different (hazard ratio [HR] 1.12, p = 0.52); mortality was reduced for quartile 3 versus quartile 1 (HR 0.66, p = 0.027) and tended to be reduced for quartile 2 versus quartile 1 (HR 0.77, p = 0.14). Subanalysis of patients not using statins (n = 737, death = 20.2%) found no association between TC and survival (for quartile 3 vs quartile 1, HR 0.97, p = 0.89), but for patients using statins (n = 848, death = 16.3%), the effect was even greater for quartile 3 versus quartile 1 (HR 0.40, p = 0.002) than in the overall population. Nonsurvivors had higher levels of C-reactive protein than survivors. In conclusion, elevated TC appears to be associated with improved survival. The effect was stronger in patients receiving statin therapy, but the cause of this differential effect is uncertain.
Clinical value of topographic mapping and quantified neurophysiology.

Clinical neurophysiology is undergoing a metamorphosis. Knowledgeable neuroscientists, however, question whether the outcome will be merely evanescent, as a colorful butterfly, or a lasting and valuable advancement. Recent change, manifested by the profusion of commercial color topographic mapping devices and, more substantively, by a small number of sophisticated mapping systems, has been spurred by modern signal analytic and statistical techniques in clinical diagnosis, electroencephalography (EEG), and long-latency evoked potentials (EPs). These changes are the byproduct of ever-increasing power of microcomputers at ever-decreasing costs. High-speed data processors with megabytes of memory, gigabytes of storage, and superb color graphics make possible the analysis of the voluminous data recorded from the human scalp. This emerging discipline is often referred to as quantified EEG or topographic mapping. We prefer the global term "quantified neurophysiology" (qNP), since these analytic techniques apply equally to long-latency EP and EEG data. As the "average" neurologist attempts to determine
Ineffectiveness of Isoniazid as an Appetite-Stimulator

In 20 patients who were not suffering from tuberculosis and whose weight had been constant for a period of weeks, but whose appetites were “poor” or “fair,” no appetite-stimulating properties were demonstrated by the administration of 300 mg. of isonicotinic acid hydrazid daily, or 300 mg. of the isopropyl derivative of isonicotinic acid hydrazide daily. It is therefore probable that the effect on appetite and weight gain as reported by Robitzek and Selikoff, 1 as well as McDermott and others, 2 was secondary to the suppression of toxicity and not an independent effect of the isonicotinic acid hydrazide derivatives on the appetite.
Cytogenetics of an endometrial adenocarcinoma cell line and its implications

Despite the fact that adenocarcinoma of the endometrium is currently the most common gynecologic malignancy in the United States, few chromosomal studies have been done to date characterizing this disease. HEC-1A, a cell line used by many laboratories as a reference cell line for endometrial carcinoma, has never been subjected to definitive karyotyping. For this reason, with the use of improved banding techniques, this has now been accomplished, and several consistent abnormalities have been identified. There was a marker chromosome formed from an insertion of 2q21, probably representing an insertion of the lacking chromosome 14. In addition, there was a translocation to the telomeric region of 1p; and trisomies of 3, 7, and 17. Many of these abnormalities are known to consistently be associated with other primary malignancies. In addition, the chromosomes in which trisomy is noted carry genes associated with epidermal growth factor and estrogen receptors, which also bear marked homology to known oncogenes. It would appear that further detailed studies of various grades and stages of endometrial carcinoma, as well as histologic types and "precursor lesions," may lead to an understanding of those chromosomal changes associated with disease initiation and progression.
Anthocyanins: are they beneficial in treating ethanol neurotoxicity?

Heavy alcohol exposure produces profound damage to the developing central nervous system (CNS) as well as the adult brain. Children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) have a variety of cognitive, behavioral, and neurological impairments. FASD currently represents the leading cause of mental retardation. Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome (WKS) and neurodegeneration in the adult brain. Although the cellular/molecular mechanism underlying ethanol’s neurotoxicity has not been fully understood, it is generally believed that oxidative stress plays an important role. Identification of neuroprotective agents that can ameliorate ethanol neurotoxicity is an important step for developing preventive/therapeutic strategies. Targeting ethanol-induced oxidative stress using natural antioxidants is an attractive approach. Anthocyanins, a large subgroup of flavonoids present in many vegetables and fruits, are safe and potent antioxidants. They exhibit diverse potential health benefits including cardioprotection, anti-atherosclerotic activity, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammation properties. Anthocyanins can cross the blood–brain barrier and distribute in the CNS. Recent studies indicate that anthocyanins represent novel neuroprotective agents and may be beneficial in ameliorating ethanol neurotoxicity. In this review, we discuss the evidence and potential of anthocyanins in alleviating ethanol-induced damage to the CNS. Furthermore, we discuss possible underlying mechanisms as well as future research approaches necessary to establish the therapeutic role of anthocyanins.
ADA perceived disability claims: a decision-tree analysis.

Introduction The purpose of this study is to examine the possible interactions of predictor variables pertaining to perceived disability claims contained in a large governmental database. Specifically, it is a retrospective analysis of US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) data for the entire population of workplace discrimination claims based on the “regarded as disabled” prong of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) definition of disability. Methods The study utilized records extracted from a “master database” of over two million charges of workplace discrimination in the Integrated Mission System of the EEOC. This database includes all ADA-related discrimination allegations filed from July 26, 1992 through December 31, 2008. Chi squared automatic interaction detection (CHAID) was employed to analyze interaction effects of relevant variables, such as issue (grievance) and industry type. The research question addressed by CHAID is: What combination of factors are associated with merit outcomes for people making ADA EEOC allegations who are “regarded as” having disabilities? Results The CHAID analysis shows how merit outcome is predicted by the interaction of relevant variables. Issue was found to be the most prominent variable in determining merit outcome, followed by industry type, but the picture is made more complex by qualifications regarding age and race data. Although discharge was the most frequent grievance among charging parties in the perceived disability group, its merit outcome was significantly less than that for the leading factor of hiring.
Regulation of cancer cell growth and death: Evaluating new anticancer targets

Genes that affect the growth and death of cancer cells have obvious potential as targets for new forms of anticancer therapy. Which of these targets will give the desired result is much less obvious. Using homologous recombination to knock out genes in human cancer cells has proven to be a reliable approach for evaluating how specific genes affect cellular responses to drugs and radiation. Recent studies of this kind have revealed several genes that can modulate the responses of human cancer cells to chemopreventive agents and to established and experimental forms of anticancer therapy.
Role of structural plasticity in signal transduction by the cryptochrome blue-light photoreceptor

Cryptochromes are blue-light photoreceptors that regulate a variety of responses such as growth and circadian rhythms in organisms ranging from bacteria to humans. Cryptochromes share a high level of sequence identity with the light-activated DNA repair enzyme photolyase. Photolyase uses energy from blue light to repair UV-induced photoproducts in DNA through cyclic electron transfer between the catalytic flavin adenine dinucleotide cofactor and the damaged DNA. Cryptochromes lack DNA repair activity, and their mechanism of signal transduction is not known. It is hypothesized that a light-dependent signaling state in cryptochromes is created as a result of an intramolecular redox reaction, resulting in conformational rearrangement and effector binding. Plant and animal cryptochromes possess 30-250 amino acid carboxy-terminal extensions beyond the photolyase-homology region that have been shown to mediate phototransduction. We analyzed the structures of C-terminal domains from an animal and a plant cryptochrome by computational, biophysical, and biochemical methods and found these domains to be intrinsically unstructured. We show that the photolyase-homology region interacts with the C-terminal domain, inducing stable tertiary structure in the C-terminal domain. Importantly, we demonstrate a light-dependent conformational change in the C-terminal domain of Arabidopsis Cry1. Collectively, these findings provide the first biochemical evidence for the proposed conformational rearrangement of cryptochromes upon light exposure.
Biliary Excretion by the Rat of Bromsulfalein as a Conjugate of Glycine and Glutamic Acid

Paper chromatograms of bile collected after the intravenous administration of bromsulfalein to rats reveal four distinct bromsulfalein bands. One migrates with the same Rf as standard bromsulfalein; the other three move less fast. The major band, which accounts for 71.3 percent of the injected bromsulfalein, appears to be a conjugate of bromsulfalein with glycine and glutamic acid.
Analysis of interlaminar mode II bending specimens using a higher order beam theory

A higher order beam theory is used to analyze two Mode II interlaminar bending specimen geometries. The theory is based on second order displacements in the thickness coordinate and is derived in conjunction with Reissner's variational principle. Homogeneous orthotropic materials are considered. Both the inplane normal stress and the interlaminar shear stress distributions exactly satisfy the equilibrium equations of clas sical theory of elasticity. The resulting field equations are applied to an analysis of the end notch flexure (ENF) specimen and end notch cantilever (ENC) specimen. Numerical results from the present theory are compared to those obtained from finite elements for the end notch flexure specimen. Excellent agreement is obtained.
SU‐E‐T‐186: An Automated Quality Assurance Tool for HDR Treatment Planning

Purpose:Treatment planning for high dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy requires many user inputs, all of which are potential sources of error. The goal of quality assurance (QA) is to ensure that errors are not made. In this study, we developed a software program to analyze the treatment printout from the HDR treatment planningcomputer and flag any suspected errors. Methods: The treatment printout from the HDR planning computer is imported by the software. The software then performs the following checks: (1) verifies that the correct source was chosen (we have multiple in our database), (2) performs an independent decay of the Ir‐192 source, (3) verifies source step size, (4) verifies the offsets and indexer lengths in the catheter definitions based upon expected values for the applicator used, (4) performs an independent 2nd check of dose to a cloud of dose points surrounding the treatment region, (5) verifies that the dose per fraction and the number of fractions were entered correctly in the planning computer, and (6) verifies that the dose volume histogram (DVH) metrics were within acceptable tolerances. The software then prints this information to a PDF file, which is appended to the original treatment printout and placed in the patient's medical record. Results: This QA tool has now been implemented for six months in our clinic, and is a critical QA tool in our HDR program. Although each plan is checked by an independent 2nd physicist, this tool provides an additional independent check on the treatment plan. Conclusions: A simple series of automatic 2nd checks helps reduce the risk of errors occurring in the treatment planning portion of HDR brachytherapy and can easily be implemented.
Hemodynamic and Biochemical Characteristics of the Aorta in the WKY, SHR, WKHT, and WKHA Rat Strains

This study was designed to characterize the hemodynamic and biochemical properties of the abdominal aorta in four genetically related inbred rat strains that express genetic hypertension and hyperactive behavior in varying combinations. These include (1) the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR), which is hypertensive, hyperactive, and hyperreactive to stress; (2) Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats, which express none of these traits; (3) WKHT rats, which are hypertensive but not hyperactive; and (4) WKHA rats, which are hyperactive and hyperreactive to stress, but normotensive. Together, these four strains allowed us to examine the structural and functional changes in the aorta in the hypertensive SHR, the most widely used animal model of genetic hypertension, while controlling for the variables of hyperactivity and hyperreactivity that are also expressed in the SHR. Four groups of animals of both sexes were studied: (1) WKY, n = 101, (2) WKHA, n = 33, (3) WKHT, n = 91, and (4) SHR, n = 28. Blood pressure (BP) was determined by tail plethysmography as well as direct intraarterial monitoring under anesthesia. Fixed specimens were prepared for histologic analysis and the wall thickness determined morphometrically. Quantification of soluble tissue protein, elastin, and collagen in the aortic tissue was determined by measuring leucine (leu), hydroxyproline (HP/leu), and desmosine (DES/leu). The hypertensive strains (SHR and WKHT) had significantly higher tail BP than the normotensive strains (WKY and WKHA)-WKY: 128.7 +/- 22.3; WKHA: 126.7 +/- 14.6; WKHT: 162.8 +/- 21.2; SHR: 164.2 +/- 36.1 (p < 0.0001). Additionally, intraaortic diastolic BP and mean BP were higher in SHR rats than in WKHT. Morphometric studies showed the media thickness in the SHR rats was significantly greater than in the WKY and WKHA rats and no different than in the WKHT rats. Significantly less of the aortic wall protein was present as elastin in the hypertensive rats (SHR and WKHT), as well as the hyperactive rats (WKHA), compared to rats that had neither trait (WKY). These studies provide new information regarding aortic structure and function in genetic hypertension using inbred strains to control for the hyperactivity/hyperreactivity traits that coexist with hypertension in the SHR. They reveal that hypertensive aortas have altered matrix proteins that cannot be explained simply on the basis of blood pressure alone.
Broader concepts of gold foil

Abstract 1. Class I and Class V foil operations are discussed with stress on the salient variations in condensation and outline procedures. 2. The Class III classic forms and variations are discussed and new instruments are mentioned which aid in operating facility.
Engaging Multiproblem Families in Treatment: Lessons Learned Throughout the Development of Multisystemic Therapy

Multisystemic therapy (MST) is a family-based treatment model that has achieved high rates of treatment completion with youths who present serious clinical problems, and their families. The success of MST in engaging challenging families in treatment is due to programmatic commitments to family collaboration and partnership as well as to a conceptual process that delineates barriers to family engagement, develops and implements strategies to overcome these barriers, and evaluates the success of these strategies. This article provides an overview of the nonspecific/universal engagement strategies used by MST therapists, frequently observed barriers to achieving therapist-family engagement, and specific strategies to overcome a sampling of these barriers.
MOVING TOWARD PUBLIC ARCHAEOLOGY IN THE NEJAPA VALLEY OF OAXACA, MEXICO

Resumen en: Starting any new archaeological project comes with difficult challenges and gratifying rewards. This is especially true for a project that seeks to incor...
On the convergence of generalized Newton methods and implicit functions

Abstract In this article, we provide sufficient conditions for the convergence of generalized Newton methods. The linear operators involved are obtained recursively from the previous ones.
A thermodynamic analysis of the phase equilibria of the Fe-Ni system above 1200 K

A quasi-subregular solution model is used to describe the thermodynamic properties of the liquid phase; values of the solution parameters are obtained from extensive and consistent thermochemical data reported in the literature. For the fcc and bcc phases, the same model is used to account for the nonmagnetic part of the Gibbs energy and the magnetic contribution is taken from the previous paper. Again, the values for the quasi-subregular solution parameters for the fcc phase are obtained from extensive and consistent thermochemical data reported in the literature at high temperatures. The values of the solution parameters for the bcc phase are obtained from the thermodynamic values of the liquid and fcc phases and the known phase boundary data. The calculated phase equilibria are in good agreement with the available data. Based on the thermodynamic data, the metastablel + γ andl + δ phase boundaries as well as theT 0 (γ + l) andT 0(δ +l) curves are calculated.
Elastic constants of lithium-magnesium alloys

The single crystal elastic constants of dilute lithium-magnesium alloys were measured using the ultrasonic pulse-echo technique. In terms of d ln Cdx, all fundamental elastic constants increase with composition by the following amounts: C44, 1.22; C′, 1.03; Bs, 1.20, per atom fraction. Small corrections for lattice parameter change upon alloying were made for C44 and C′ by using the pressure derivatives of the elastic constants of pure lithium and the known variation of the lattice constant with composition. The remaining effect is ascribed to alloying alone. Both to understand the elastic shear constants of lithium and to comprehend their dependence on composition, one must include small negative stiffness contributions arising in the Fermi energy, in addition to the major and usual electrostatic stiffness. It is then possible to deduce the variation with composition of each contribution from the measured total variation for the two shear constants, with the result that d ln Cedx = 1.24 and d ln Cfdx = 1.76.
Spray pyrolysis of CuInSe2

Abstract Spray pyrolysis is a low-cost method of depositing thin films and is an economically attractive alternative to the vacuum deposition methods that have been used to produce stable CuInSe 2 -based solar cells. Thermodynamic studies have shown that the preferred deposit from an aqueous solution of CuCl 2 , InCl 3 and N,N-dimethylselenourea is CuInSe 2 . Experimental studies have demonstrated that, under the proper conditions, single-phase chalcopyrite CuInSe 2 of 〈112〉 crystal orientation can be deposited with controlled resistivity and relatively high hole mobility.
Interconversion of the cis-5R,6S-and trans-5R,6R.Thymine Glycol Lesions in Duplex DNA

Thymine glycol (Tg), 5,6-dihydroxy-5,6-dihydrothymine, is formed in DNA by the reaction of thymine with reactive oxygen species. The 5R Tg lesion was incorporated site-specifically into 5′-d(G1T2G3C4G5Tg6G7T8T9T10G11T12)-3′; Tg = 5R Tg. The Tg-modified oligodeoxynucleotide was annealed with either 5′-d(A13C14A15A16A17C18A19C20G21C22A23C24)-3′, forming the Tg6•A19 base pair, corresponding to the oxidative damage of thymine in DNA, or 5′-d(A13C14A15A16A17C18G19C20G21C22A23C24)-3′, forming the mismatched Tg6•G19 base pair, corresponding to the formation of Tg following oxidative damage and deamination of 5-methylcytosine in DNA. At 30 °C, the equilibrium ratio of cis-5R,6S:trans-5R,6R epimers was 7:3 for the duplex containing the Tg6•A19 base pair. In contrast, for the duplex containing the Tg6•G19 base pair, the cis-5R,6S:trans-5R,6R equilibrium favored the cis-5R,6S epimer; the level of the trans-5R,6R epimer remained below the level of detection by NMR. The data suggested that Tg disrupted hydrogen bonding interactions, either when placed opposite to A19 or G19. Thermodynamic measurements indicated a 13 °C reduction of Tm regardless of whether Tg was placed opposite dG or dA in the complementary strand. Although both pairings increased the free energy of melting by 3 kcal/mol, the melting of the Tg•G pair was more enthalpically favored than was the melting of the Tg•A pair. The observation that the position of the equilibrium between the cis-5R,6S and trans-5R,6R thymine glycol epimers in duplex DNA was affected by the identity of the complementary base extends upon observations that this equilibrium modulates the base excision repair of Tg [Ocampo-Hafalla M. T.; Altamirano A.; Basu A. K.; Chan M. K.; Ocampo J. E.; Cummings A. Jr.; Boorstein R. J.; Cunningham R. P.; Teebor G. W. DNA Repair (Amst)2006, 5, 444−454].
Calciphylaxis Without Renal Failure

Khafif et al1and Selye2describe calciphylaxis as an acute local calcification affecting several organ systems, including the skin, kidney, and, less commonly, the lung, heart, and gastrointestinal tract. Cutaneous lesions characteristically begin as tender, violaceous, livedoid discolorations on the proximal aspect of the extremities and on the lower part of the abdomen. The lesions become indurated plaques and nodules that progress to necrotic deep ulcerations with eschar formation. Microscopic assessment reveals calcium deposition in the small and intermediate dermal vasculature with resultant epidermal ischemia and necrosis. While the pathogenesis is uncertain, the majority of cases of calciphylaxis have occurred in patients with chronic renal failure and secondary hyperparathyroidism. We report on a rare presentation of calciphylaxis in the absence of renal failure. Report of a Case. A 58-year-old white woman with alcoholic cirrhosis was admitted for management of ascites and skin ulcers and evaluation of a hepatic
Homebound schooling is the least favorable option for continued education of adolescent cancer patients: a preliminary report.

Background With an overall objective to improve the educational programs of pediatric cancer patients, the purpose of this study was to compare the quality of educational experiences of adolescent cancer patients undergoing treatment while enrolled in hospital, homebound, or community schools. Procedure Ten students, 12–17 years of age at diagnosis, their parent and their teachers were interviewed with a structured list of open-ended questions designed to assess their perceptions of their homebound, hospital, and community school experiences. The interviews were taped, transcribed, and analyzed using qualitative methods for recurring themes. Results High achieving students engaged in extracurricular activities prior to diagnosis performed well academically in all three schooling situations. Those less engaged in school prior to diagnosis did poorly in homebound schools, better in their community schools, and best in the hospital school. Conclusions Homebound learning during cancer therapy does not appear to be as meaningful as either hospital or community learning environments. Prior academic performance, as well as social, emotional, and health factors should be considered in selecting the most appropriate formal school environment for adolescent cancer patients. Med Pediatr Oncol 2003;40:380–384. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Design strategies for the seismic retrofit of reinforced concrete frames

Abstract Due to economical and practical considerations, the seismic rehabilitation of buildings is generally confined to strategic areas of the structure in which only selected elements are modified or new elements are added. While these modified or new elements can be designed to have substantial strength and ductility, studies have shown that unless the retrofit scheme is stiff enough to control lateral drifts, significant damage to existing non‐strengthened elements can be expected. This paper summarizes some of the results of a series of analytical studies conducted on prototype reinforced concrete frames strengthened with some of the most commonly used rehabilitation techniques. Based on the results of these studies, a design strategy that uses lateral drift rather than lateral strength as the main criterion for the design of retrofit schemes is presented.
WADDA YA MEAN, I CAN'T DRIVE? THREAT TO COMPETENCE AS A FACTOR IN DRUNK DRIVING INTERVENTION

SUMMARY One method of preventing drunk driving is for people around the potential driver to intervene, but while research has provided information on prevalence, types, and effects of interventions, little attention has been given to theoretical constructs that might explain the behavior. The present study investigates the value of threat to competence as an explanatory concept. Five statements, determined to have different levels of threat to competence, were presented to college student volunteers (102 women, 99 men), who evaluated their potential effectiveness at stopping a friend from driving. As hypothesized, as level of threat increased, evaluations of effectiveness decreased. Implications for efforts to prevent drunk driving are discussed.
Effects of acidic pH on predation rates and survivorship of damselfly nymphs

Environmental variables such as pH critically affect the physiology and ecology of aquatic organisms. Our lack of information regarding indirect effects of acid precipitation requires investigation of acid stress and response to acid stress by species of freshwater communities. Damselfly nymphs Enallagma civile (Odonata: Coenagrionidae) are abundant aquatic predators and food items for other secondary consumers.
The returns to participation in the non-farm sector in rural Rwanda

In this paper, we investigate the differences in outcomes (earnings and consumption) between individuals (households) who participate in the non-farm sector and those who do not. We use propensity score matching methods, where we create appropriate comparison groups of individuals and households. First we find that non-farm self-employed individuals in rural Rwanda have significantly higher earnings than farm workers and non-farm formal employees. Second, we show that the benefits to non-farm self-employment are much higher among the non-poor than among the poor. Third, we show that diversified households, those with a farm and a non-farm enterprise, are less likely to be poor. Finally, farm households who do not participate in the market have significantly lower consumption levels than households that do. However, the benefits to market participation appear to matter less for the poor than for the non-poor. We find little difference in expenditures between market participants and non-market participants, for comparable households in the bottom 40% of the expenditure distribution.
A role for activator-mediated TFIIB recruitment in diverse aspects of transcriptional regulation.

Abstract Background: Transcription by RNA polymerase II in eukaryotic cells requires the ordered assembly of general transcription factors on the promoter to form a preinitiation complex. Transcriptional activator proteins (activators) stimulate transcription by increasing the rate and/or extent of preinitiation complex assembly. We have shown previously that acidic activators increase the stable association of TFIIB on the promoter, a process we refer to as ‘recruitment'. In this study, we provide evidence that diverse activators facilitate TFIIB assembly by a related mechanism. We then investigate the activator-mediated assembly of TFIIB with regard to two aspects of transcription: the distance-dependence of activator function, and reinitiation. Results We have previously described amino-acid-substitution mutants of TFIIB that are able to support an activator-independent basal level of transcription but do not respond to acidic activators. We now show that these mutants also do not respond to other classes of activators. We demonstrate that this defect is due to a failure of the activators to recruit the mutant TFIIB to the promoter. Activators often lose activity as their distance from the initiation site is increased. We show that this impaired transcriptional activity correlates with a decrease in TFIIB recruitment. Finally, we find that following the initiation of transcription, TFIIB dissociates from the promoter, requiring the activator-mediated reassembly of TFIIB in the preinitiation complex for each new round of transcription. Conclusion We have provided evidence that diverse activators recruit TFIIB to the promoter by a related mechanism. This central step in transcriptional activation is sensitive to promoter architecture, and is required for each new round of transcription.
Repeatability of a telephone questionnaire on cat-ownership patterns and pet-owner demographics evaluation in a community in Texas, USA

The repeatability of a telephone questionnaire on cat-ownership patterns, demographics and attitudes towards homeless cats in a community was evaluated. Randomly selected households (n=100) within Caldwell, Texas, were included in the study. The response percentage was 84% (100/119) among those contacted and 75% (100/134) among all eligible respondents. Repeatability was measured by administering the same survey twice to the first 100 responding subjects, with an average (range) of 48 (25-64) days between interviews. The survey was initially administered from 6 June to 28 June 2005 and the follow-up survey was administered from 19 July to 11 August 2005. Repeatability for most cat-ownership characteristics was fair to good between the two interviews (kappa 0.47-0.82). Knowledge of companion animals and subject attachment to pet questions had good correlations between the two interviews (rsp 0.52 and 0.60, respectively). Subject-demographic questions had excellent repeatability (kappa 0.66-1.00).