cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Down-regulation of programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4) is associated with aromatase inhibitor resistance and a poor prognosis in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.

Progression or recurrence due to resistance to aromatase inhibitors (AIs) is a significant clinical problem for a considerable number of patients with breast cancer. Programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4), a tumor suppressor protein, is targeted for degradation during tumor progression. In the current study, we aimed to examine PDCD4 expression and regulation in AI-resistant breast cancer cells, and its association with survival in patients with estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer. We determined PDCD4 expression levels in AI-resistant breast cancer cell lines and ER-positive breast cancer tumors, investigated the regulation of PDCD4 in AI-resistant breast cancer cell lines, and carried out a Kaplan–Meier survival analysis in two independent cohorts that included a total of 420 patients with ER-positive breast cancer. We found that PDCD4 expression was down-regulated in AI-resistant breast cancer cells, and this down-regulation was inversely correlated with activation of HER2 signaling. Moreover, lower expression of PDCD4 was significantly associated with HER2 positive status in ER-positive breast tumors. Down-regulation of PDCD4 was mediated through up-regulation of HER2 via the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), protein kinase B (PKB/AKT), and miR-21 in AI-resistant breast cancer cells. MiR-21 inhibitor and the ER down-regulator fulvestrant induced PDCD4 expression and decreased cell proliferation in AI-resistant breast cancer cells. Furthermore, forced overexpression of PDCD4 resensitized AI-resistant cells to AI or hormone deprivation. Finally, we identified that down-regulation of PDCD4 was associated with a lower rate of disease-free survival in patients with ER-positive breast cancer and high histologic grade of breast tumors. In summary, our study shows that expression of PDCD4 is down-regulated by HER2 signaling in AI-resistant breast cancer. Down-regulation of PDCD4 is associated with AI resistance and a poor prognosis in patients with ER-positive breast cancer.
Towards a New Synthesis for Development in Adulthood

Life span scholars are urged to continue unpacking what is meant by development in adulthood. Relational developmental systems theory provides a theoretically rich framework within which to ground our empirical work, but consideration of current models shows that additional theorizing and more empirical work are needed to better understand development in adulthood. Articulation of linkages between intraindividual variability developmental studies in conjunction with population-based studies is one suggested strategy. The six foci personality model is presented as an exemplar, compatible with intraindividual variability and population science, to move us further along in theorizing about adult development in one important domain.
The Influence of Urban Street Characteristics on Pedestrian Heat Comfort Levels in Philadelphia

This article demonstrates a way to model the urban microclimate using a combination of statistical analysis and a geographic information system (GIS). Field measurements of ambient temperature and relative humidity were collected in various urban settings at ground level over two surface materials and at two different times of the day. A panel autoregressive (PAR) model was created to conduct a regression analysis capable of accounting for the spatial autocorrelation. With the PAR analyses, selected urban street characteristics showed varying effects over the different surface materials and at different times of the day. The overall influences were consistent with previous findings. PAR models were then applied in GIS to create thermal prediction maps for the study area to determine the hot and cool spots. Since GIS is the most commonly used technology among a wide range of researchers and professionals, this article provides a means to improve the synthesis, integration, and sharing of information to understand the relationship between the heat-vulnerable population and heat stress within the urban environment. This methodology will be useful in the effort to reduce the heat-related morbidity and mortality, which are expected to increase with projected global warming.
Detection and characterization of a lymphocyte proliferating factor (LPF) in plasma of SJL/J mice infected with the LDH virus.

Infection of 25- to 30-week-old SJL/J mice with the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) virus resulted in a transitory T-cell lymphocytopenia. However, in 40-to 45-week-old animals, the initial lymphocytopenia was followed by persistent elevations in the peripheral leukocyte counts (B and T lymphocytes). Studies indicated that this difference had its basis in a plasma factor, termed lymphocyte proliferating factor (LPF), which was induced by infection of older SJL/J mice with the LDH virus. Further experimentation revealed that plasma LPF was sensitive to storage at -60° C, to heating at 90° C, and to treatment with DNase. These results suggested an identification of LPF as DNA. This possibility was supported by the demonstration of LPF activity in association with DNA extracts (blood, spleen and lymph nodes from LDH virus-infected mice) which was inactivated by DNase.
EPR study of long-range acetyl-proton couplings in aliphatic acetoxy radicals

Abstract Recent liquid-phase EPR studies in our laboratory on a-formyloxy and β-formyloxy radicals, ·C(X1)(X2)OCHO [1], and ·C(X1)(X2)C(X3)(X4)OCHO [2], respectively, where an (X-) group is an H- or a simple substituent such as CH3−, have demonstrated that the experimentally observed long-range γ- and δ-CH formyl-proton couplings were sensitive probes of the alterations in preferred radical conformation produced by changes in the degree of substitution. We would expect the long-range δ- and e-CH acetyl-proton couplings in simple and acetyl-substituted a-acetoxy radicals, ·C-(X1)(X2)OC(O)CH(X3)(X4) [3], and in β-acetoxy radicals, ©(X1)(X2)-C(X3)(X4)OC(O)CH3 [4], to show a variation with degree of substitution similar to that found for the formyl-proton couplings in the structurally analogous type-[1] and −[2] radicals. In the present paper, we carried out a comprehensive EPR study of type [3] and -[4] radicals in aqueous solution at approximately 25°C, with particular attention to the observed long-range acetyl-proton couplings. Our findings successfully confirm the expectations about the dependence of the acetyl-proton couplings on the nature of the substituents in type-[3] and -[4] radicals. Furthermore, by comparing the similar variations of the long-range couplings in type-[1] and -[3] and in type-[2] and -[4] radicals, we assigned preferred radical conformations to type-[3] and -[4] radicals.
Maximized Capacity of Coupled Antennas Based on Multipolar Radiations

The maximum achievable capacity of colocated multipoles is simulated and two practical mode-decoupled antennas with closely-coupled dipoles are proposed in this work. The concept of multipolar radiation leads to the design of mode-decoupled antennas. Because of the orthogonality property of radiation patterns between different antenna modes, not only the capacity can be maximized but also the excitation network can be decoupled. The proposed multipolar antennas with mode-decoupling benefit give a clear interpretation of the relations between antenna excitation, pattern, and capacity
β-Cell deterioration during diabetes: what's in the gun?

Clinical management of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) successfully prevents extreme hyperglycemia but does not precisely control glucose levels throughout the day. The pathogenesis of T2D is akin to a double-barrel shotgun. The first trigger causes an explosion that sets genetic expression of the disease in motion; the second trigger discharges a host of environmental factors that worsen its clinical course. Candidate shells include glucolipotoxicity, cytokines, oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress and insulin resistance. This review considers how each candidate adversely impacts β-cell function to create the downward spiral of glycemic control. Their roles in pathogenesis raise possibilities for new drug therapies designed to protect against adverse effects of residual hyperglycemia in patients treated with conventional drugs.
Aneurysmlike Formations in Relation to Membranous Ventricular Septum

A left ventriculogram may show an aneurysmal protrusion toward the right ventricle in the subaortic area with or without an associated interventricular communication. The pathologic basis for such a finding is variable. It may well represent an aneurysm of the membranous ventricular septum which may be congenital or acquired. Either variety has the potential of rupturing into the right ventricle. The acquired aneurysms are usually mycotic. An aneurysm resulting from adhesion of the septal leaflet of the tricuspid valve to the rim of a membranous ventricular septal defect and causing complete or incomplete closure may also yield an aneurysmal formation. Pouches of the tricuspid valve resulting from excessive tissue, in association with a ventricular septal defect, can also be misinterpreted as an aneurysm of the membranous septum or as incomplete closure of a ventricular septal defect with aneurysm formation. In some cases, even at pathologic examination, the exact nature is difficult to identify. Separati...
Combination of acceleration and collision involving the left atrial appendage limbus as a mechanism of hemolytic anemia in the setting of periprosthetic mitral valve regurgitation.

Hemolytic anemia is a rare, but potentially serious complication of prosthetic heart valves that has been reported in both biologic and mechanical valves inserted in both the aortic and mitral positions. 1-3 Several causal mechanisms of hemolysis have been proposed including shear stress, turbulence, variations in pressure, intrinsic erythrocyte abnormalities, and the interaction of the erythrocyte with the foreign surface of the valve. 4,5 The interaction of these factors results in a complex process whereby the red blood cell (RBC) is destroyed or fragmented. Certain blood flow patterns including acceleration, fragmentation, and collision have been implicated in causing high shear stress on the erythrocyte, resulting in hemolysis. 5 We hereby describe two patients who presented similarly. Both had severe hemolytic anemia, which was shown by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) to be caused by a combination of acceleration of flow through a discrete periprosthetic mitral regurgitation (MR) jet as a result of a discrete area of valvular dehiscence associated with collision and fragmentation of the periprosthetic jet, as it struck the ridge separating the left pulmonary vein from the left atrial (LA) appendage (the atrial appendage limbus).
Operations Research Call for Papers: Special Issue on Computational Economics: Submission deadline: March 31, 2008

O research (OR) has a long and rich shared history with economics, dating back to seminal founders of the field who spanned both disciplines (Arrow, Bellman, Dantzig, Koopmans, Modigliani, Scarf, Raiffa, von Neumann) and through a mutual interest in both problem contexts (optimal allocation of resources, inventory management, investment planning, etc.) and methodology (optimization, decision theory, game theory, simulation, etc.). While the fields diverged beginning in the 1970s, today they are growing closer as economists have recognized a need to solve increasingly complex economics models that cannot be tackled using classical methods, and OR scholars are increasingly incorporating sophisticated economic ideas into their models to reflect modern business realities. The aim of this special issue is to provide an outlet for those working at this contemporary intersection of OR and economics. We seek papers that are of broad interest to both research communities, whether it be through applications, modeling techniques that are of mutual interest, or leading-edge methodology that can benefit researchers in both fields. Methods and applications of interest include:
The relationship between QE−1 and dispersion in extensional modulus, E

The authors have measured the extensional modulus (ratio of stress to strain, E) and the fractional energy loss per radian (Q{sup {minus}1}{sub E}) as functions of frequency in cylindrical samples of two solids: a room-dry sandstone (Berea) and an acrylic plastic (Lucite). In the seismic frequency range (0.1-100 Hz), Q{sup {minus}1}{sub E} for the sandstone is constant, while the sandstone modulus follows a power law of frequency, E(f) {proportional to} (f{ovr f{sub 0}}){sup 2 tan{sup {minus}1}(Q{sup {minus}1}{sub E})/{pi}} allowing Q{sup {minus}1}{sub E} to be independently estimated from the slope of log E versus log f. In the same frequency range, Q{sup {minus}1}{sub E} for the acrylic plastic is not constant but exhibits a slight relaxation peak centered about 2 Hz. In this case Q{sup {minus}1}{sub E} can be estimated from the derivative, d log E/d log f, i.e., the above power law appears to hold independently at each point in the frequency domain even when Q{sup {minus}1}{sub E} is varying.
GROWTH OF FIBROBLASTS AND HYDROGEN ION CONCENTRATION OF THE MEDIUM

1. The rate of growth of fibroblasts is markedly modified by slight changes in the hydrogen ion concentration of the medium. The curves expressing the rate of growth in function of the hydrogen ion concentration of the medium are nearly symmetrical on both sides of the maximum. 2. The optimum growth of fibroblasts occurs at pH 7.4 to 7.8. A slight change from this reaction has a remarkable influence on the rate of growth. 3. Fibroblasts show more resistance to higher alkalinity than to higher acidity. They grew for only four to six generations in a medium having a pH of 5.5, and for more than ten generations in one of 8.5. 4. The influence of different hydrogen ion concentrations on fibroblasts was only of a quantitative nature.
Hot cold clean poison and dirt: Chinese folk medical categories.

Abstract What is the relationship in the traditional Chinese folk world view between the hot cold polarity (an application of the primary opposition of yin-yang) and the categories clean, poison, and dirt? Using fieldwork data and contemporary and older sources, 1 have explored these concepts as they appear in medicine, diet, sex, and folk religion. Hypotheses about their interrelationships are suggested.
Instability on a weakening fault

Weakening of a prestressed sawcut in Westerly granite under laboratory condition is accomplished by injecting pressurized fluid into the sawcut. After injection a sequence of stick-slips is observed while the deviatoric stress decreases successively with each stick-slip. On the basis of the experimental observation we develop a model of fault instability due to inhomogeneous and progressive weakening of the fault. According to this model, the fault surface is divided into the ‘slipped’ and the ‘locked’ regions, depending on whether or not the local state of stress satisfies the friction criterion. The average shear stress in the slipped region decreases with time and, in order to maintain a quasi-static equilibrium, shear stress in the remaining ‘locked’ region on the fault surface increases. This situation may last until a critical state of stress on the fault is met, at which a sudden instability (stick0slip) may occur. We suggest that this mechanism of stress transfer may be a viable mechanism of induced seismicity and aftershocks, in addition to the well-known mechanism of a local increase of pore pressure. By comparing the experimental data with model predictions we show that the critical condition for slip instability is when the average shear stress over the ‘locked’ region becomes equal to the value given by the friction criterion. Thus the friction criterion established for slip on fractures on which the state of stress is macroscopically uniform may also be applicable to fractures on which the stress state is macroscopically heterogeneous.
Sensing structural intermediates in bacterial flagellar assembly by export of a negative regulator

The ability of a regulatory protein to sense the integrity of the bacterial flagellar structure was investigated. In response to a defective hook-basal body complex, the anti-sigma 28 FlgM protein inhibits flagellin transcription. In cells with a functional hook-basal body complex, the flagellin genes are transcribed normally and the FlgM protein is expelled into the growth medium. In strains with a defective hook-basal body structure, FlgM is absent from the media. The presence of flagellin protein in the media is substantially reduced in strains carrying a FlgM-LacZ protein fusion, suggesting that the fusion is blocking the flagellar export apparatus. These results suggest that the FlgM protein assesses the integrity of the flagellar hook-basal body complex by itself being a substrate for export by the flagellar-specific export apparatus.
Efficacy of Pleural Needle Biopsy and Pleural Fluid Cytopathology in the Diagnosis of Malignant Neoplasm Involving the Pleura

A comparison was made of the efficacy of pleural needle biopsy and pleural-fluid cytopathology in the diagnosis of pleural tumor in a group of 271 patients. A malignant tumor involving the pleura was present in 95 cases. Needle biopsy alone provided a diagnosis of tumor in 53 instances, and cytopathologic preparations were diagnostic in 69 patients. A diagnosis was established on either the biopsy or cytopathology, or both, in 86 cases (90 percent). These results indicate the value of using both biopsy and fluid cytology in the evaluation of pleural effusion, which often is due to involvement of the pleura by malignant neoplasm.
High-performance testbed network with ATM technology for neuroimaging

Today's teleradiology transmits images with telephone lines (from 14400 to 1.5 Mbits/sec). However, the large amount of data commonly produced during an MR or CT procedure can limit some applications of teleradiology. This paper is a progress report of a high speed (155 Mbits/sec) testbed teleradiology network using asynchronous transfer mode (ATM OC 3) technology for neuroradiology. The network connects radiology departments of four affiliated hospitals and one MR imaging center within the San Francisco Bay Area with ATM switches through the Pacific Bell ATM main switch at Oakland, California; they are: University of California at San Francisco Hospital and Medical School (UCSF), Mt. Zion Hospital (MZH), San Francisco VA Medical Center (SFVAMC), San Francisco General Hospital (SFGH), and San Francisco Magnetic Resonance Imaging Center (SFMRC). UCSF serves as the expert center and the ATM switch is connected to its PACS infrastructure, the others are considered as satellite sites. Images and related patient data are transmitted from the four satellite sites to the expert canter for interpretation and consultation.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Information theoretic framework for the analysis of a slow-light delay device

We present a framework for the information theoretic analysis of slow-light devices. We employ a model in which the device input is a binary-valued data sequence and the device output is considered within a window of finite duration. We use the mutual information between these two quantities to measure information content. This approach enables the information theoretic definitions of delay and throughput. We use our new framework to analyze a delay device based on stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) and find good agreement with previous SBS delay bounds.
CLUSTER ANALYSIS OF CHILDHOOD TEMPERAMENT DATA ON ADOPTEES

Cluster analysis is used with behavioral data on 162 adoptees to assess temperament and to test the validity of the temperament typologies described by Thomas and Chess. Data are divided into two groups by sex. Results concur with the Thomas-Chess findings in identifying three main temperament groups: difficult, easy, and slow to warm up. Membership in the difficult group predicted later childhood behavior disorder in both sexes. Differing environmental factors associated with difficulty for males and for females are considered, and directions for further investigation are suggested.
MODEL INDEPENDENT CONSTRAINTS ON HADRON FORM FACTORS AT LARGE Q2 IN LIGHT-FRONT QCD

Among the three forms of relativistic Hamiltonian dynamics proposed by Dirac in 1949, the front form has the largest number of kinematic generators. This distinction provides useful consequences in the analysis of physical observables in hadron physics. We discuss a rationale for using the front form dynamics, known nowadays as the light-front dynamics (LFD), and present a few explicit examples of hadron phenomenology that the front form uniquely can offer from the first principle QCD. In particular, model independent constraints are provided for the analyses of deuteron form factors and the NΔ transition form factors at large momentum transfer square Q2.
Excess counterion binding and ionic stability of kinked and branched DNA

Abstract We compute the excess number of counterions associated with kinked and branched DNA, and the ionic stabilities of these structures as a function of chain length and both sodium and magnesium salt concentration, using numerical counterion condensation theory. The DNA structures are modeled as two or more finite lines of phosphate charges radiating from the kink or junction center. The number of excess counterions around the (40–90°) kinked duplex is very small (at most four). The geometries of large three- and four-way DNA junctions (with >50 base pairs per arm) in solutions containing low to moderate NaCl concentrations, by contrast, accumulate a substantial number of excess sodium ions (>20) but no more than 15 magnesium counterions. The excess number of counterions surrounding the kinked linear chain and the branched DNA structures either remains invariant or increases with chain length, tending to reach a plateau value. Open configurations, such as the planar Y-shaped three-way junction (with three 120° inter-arm angles) and the 90° cross-shaped four-way junction, are ionically more stable than compact geometries, such as pyramidal three-way junctions and X-shaped four-way junctions, over the entire range of salt concentration considered (10−5–10−1 M NaCl or MgCl2). The ionic stabilities of the compact forms increase with increasing salt concentration and become comparable to those of the extended geometries at high salt (especially when magnesium is the supporting salt).
X-Ray Enhancement In The Presence Of Noise

An algorithmic process has been developed for the non-linear enhancement of x-ray images with noisy characteristics. The enhancement process involves the application of two specialized algorithms in series. The first algorithm serves to enhance the image by non-linear modification of pixel values based upon neighborhood relationships. The second algorithm serves to remove noise in the processed image which might have been amplified with the enhancement process. This two-stage approach results in enhanced images with good edge and texture definition but minimal noise amplification.
CG&A's New Associate Editor in Chief

CG&A's Editor in Chief Gabriel Taubin thanks parting Associate Editor in Chief Holly Rushmeier and welcomes her replacement, Carol O'Sullivan.
The isolation of cerebral neurons with partial retention of processes

Abstract A novel tissue disaggregation technique has been devised which permits the isolation of neurons with fairly extensive processes attached. Cortex is dissociated by aspiration through nozzles of decreasing size followed by agitation on a vortex mixer, rather than by the usual technique of forcing tissue through sieves. After each aspiration step, dissociated cells are separated from undisrupted tissue by coarse filtration and the latter is subjected to repeated treatment. This prevents unnecessary trauma to the free cells. After disruption is complete, small pieces of undisrupted tissue are removed from the cell suspension by flotation on the foam created by degassing the suspension under vacuum. Cells are purified by conventional velocity-gradient centrifugation. This procedure has been applied successfully to fresh rat brain, with or without a preincubation with trypsin, frozen human brain and frozen bovine brain. The cell yields from rat brain were comparable to or better than, those obtained by other procedures (37 × 10 6 cells/brain) while the purity was comparabel. Cell yields from human brain were similar to those from rat brain but the purity was lower. The lowered particle purity of human and bovine cells can probably be attributed to the conditions of storage of the tissue and to trapping of free nuclei in the meshwork of dendritic processes. Values are given for the amount of protein, RNA and DNA per cell.
Impact of Adult Vocabulary Noneliciting and Eliciting Questions on the Novel Vocabulary Acquisition of Preschoolers Enrolled in Head Start

A variety of adult questioning styles may accompany shared storybook reading to help preschoolers' word learning. This experiment utilized a blocked randomized design to investigate the impact of two adult questioning styles—vocabulary noneliciting questions and vocabulary eliciting questions—on the novel vocabulary learning of preschoolers enrolled in Head Start. Results indicate that children who were asked vocabulary noneliciting questions, or questions that included novel words, had significantly higher receptive word knowledge posttest scores than children who were asked questions that elicited the novel words. In addition, vocabulary noneliciting questions facilitated children's initial associations of the novel label and referent during the storybook reading more so than eliciting questions. This study may inform practices for promoting preschoolers' novel vocabulary learning in the context of shared storybook reading. Implications for adults working with children enrolled in Head Start are discussed.
Response of an Actin Filament Network Model Under Cyclic Stretching Through a Coarse Grained Monte Carlo Approach

Cells are complex, dynamic systems that actively adapt to various stimuli including mechanical alterations. Central to understanding cellular response to mechanical stimulation is the organization of the cytoskeleton and its actin filament network. In this manuscript, we present a minimalistic network Monte Carlo based approach to model actin filament organization under cyclic stretching. Utilizing a coarse-grained model, a filament network is prescribed within a two-dimensional circular space through nodal connections. When cyclically stretched, the model demonstrates that a perpendicular alignment of the filaments to the direction of stretch emerges in response to nodal repositioning to minimize net nodal forces from filament stress states. In addition, the filaments in the network rearrange and redistribute themselves to reduce the overall stress by decreasing their individual stresses. In parallel, we cyclically stretch NIH 3T3 fibroblasts and find a similar cytoskeletal response. With this work, we test the hypothesis that a first-principles mechanical model of filament assembly in a confined space is by itself capable of yielding the remodeling behavior observed experimentally. Identifying minimal mechanisms sufficient to reproduce mechanical influences on cellular structure has important implications in a diversity of fields, including biology, physics, medicine, computer science, and engineering.
FT-IR Investigation of the Thermal Decomposition of Poly(amidoamine) Dendrimers and Dendrimer−Metal Nanocomposites Supported on Al2O3 and ZrO2

The decomposition and removal of poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers from inorganic metal oxide surfaces frequently used as catalyst supports was investigated by the use of FT−IR spectroscopy. Spectra of fourth-generation hydroxyl-terminated PAMAM dendrimers (G4OH) on γ-Al2O3 were collected first at room temperature and were subsequently analyzed with all bands assigned to the vibrational frequencies of dendrimer functional groups. Bands corresponding to amide and ethylenic groups decrease in intensity upon heating at 150 °C, while new bands corresponding to surface carboxylate species appear in their stead. Thus, the process of dendrimer removal occurs in two stages: dendrimer decomposition to form adsorbed carboxylates followed by the removal of these carboxylates from the surface. The dendrimer generation (i.e., G3OH vs G4OH) does not affect the rate of this process. However, the temperature required for completion of the first stage rises with increasing G4OH weight loading. Other factors that influe...
Mobile ICT literacy: A contributor for environmental sustainability

Environmental change is prompting societal response around the globe in areas such as energy conservation. Sustainability is at the forefront of societal issues, especially for health and well-being which rely on integrated data services. For the pervasive user to successfully engage in the use of data services, training is needed to conceptualize use and establish the necessary level of mobile literacy for the task. This paper introduces web-based training designed for pervasive users who need to conceptualize both connectivity challenges and energy conservation techniques for effective mobile communication. Our strategies are based on empirical research that measures mobile ICT literacy from a sample of 300 responses with the 160 character constrained communication of SMS text messaging. Mobile ICT literacy is an important aspect of effective communication with the ongoing deployments of social media and mobile technologies and should include training on connectivity for environmental sustainability and communication best practices.
Differences in serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) between healthy dextral and non-dextral subjects

Serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) was measured in picograms/ml (pg/ml) using an immunoassay (ELISA) in healthy individuals (n = 148), of whom 128 were classified as dextral and 20 as non-dextral, as per a laterality questionnaire. Only 3 (15%) non-dextral individuals had serum IL-6 levels above the lower limit of the assay sensitivity as compared to 59 (46%) of dextral individuals (P < 0.013). There were no significant correlations between previously determined mitogen stimulated interleukin-2 production and autoantibodies in a subset of the same individuals. While this data does not provide casual information, it adds to the evidence of the asymmetric regulation of immune functions by the cerebral hemispheres.
Effects of adsorption to aluminum salt adjuvants on the structure and stability of model protein antigens.

The effect of adsorption onto aluminum salt adjuvants on the structure and stability of three model protein antigens was studied using fluorescence and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopies, as well as isothermal titration and differential scanning calorimetric techniques. Lysozyme was preferentially adsorbed to aluminum phosphate (Adju-Phos®), whereas ovalbumin and bovine serum albumin were better adsorbed to aluminum hydroxide (Alhydrogel®). A linearized Langmuir adsorption isotherm was used to obtain information regarding the binding interactions between proteins and adjuvants. Binding energetics and stoichiometry data obtained from isothermal titration calorimetry measurements were complex. Based on the spectroscopic and differential scanning calorimetry studies, the structure of all three proteins, when adsorbed to the surface of an aluminum salt, was altered in such a way as to render the proteins less thermally stable. Besides the pharmaceutical significance of this destabilization, we consider the possibility that this phenomenon may facilitate the presentation of antigens and thus contribute to the adjuvant activity of the aluminum salts.
Cognitive decline over time following electrical injury

Electrical injury (EI) is on the rise in the US, with more than 2400 injuries occurring annually. Consequences of EI often include diffuse neurological damage and a myriad of emotional and behavioural sequelae. While delayed onset of cognitive dysfunction is frequently alluded to in the literature, few cases have been published that document the progressive neuropsychological manifestations of EI over time. This paper offers a case study of a 49 year-old female who suffered a high voltage EI and who underwent neuropsychological evaluations at 6 and 56 months post-injury. Comparison of test results suggested a progressive pattern of global decline in cognitive functioning, with particular impairment in memory, verbal learning, abstract reasoning and sensory-motor functions. This case study illustrates the delayed onset and progression of neuropsychological dysfunction that may occur following EI, as well as the importance of long-term follow-up with patients after high voltage EI.
Cubesort: A parallel algorithm for sorting N data items with S -sorters

Abstract This paper presents a parallel sorting algorithm called Cubesort. Cubesort sorts N data items by performing a number of rounds, each of which partitions the N data items into groups of size S and sorts within the groups. For many values of N and S, Cubesort requires fewer such rounds than are required by any previously published algorithm. Cubesort can also be used to sort N data items on hypercube, shuffle-exchange, and cube-connected cycles computers with P processors in time O(N log 2 N P log ( N P )) over a wide range of the parameters N and P. In particular, when N = P 1 + 1 k and k is a constant, Cubesort sorts on the above parallel computers in O(N log N P ) time, thus obtaining an optimal processor-time product for comparison sorting. The application of Cubesort to general routing problems is also discussed.
Relationships between left ventricular ejection time, stroke volume, and heart rate in normal individuals and patients with cardiovascular disease.

Abstract In the present study the relationships between the ejection time, heart rate, and stroke volume in normal individuals and in patients with various cardiovascular disorders were investigated. Ejection time was measured from the carotid or subclavian pulse tracing, and stroke volume was derived from direct measurements of blood flow. In normal individuals, ejection time varied inversely with heart rate and directly with stroke volume. In patients with nonvalvular heart disease and cardiac failure, ejection time was usually low relative to heart rate but tended to fall within normal limits relative to stroke volume. At the level of stroke volume observed in the patients with congestive heart failure, the mean rate of left ventricular ejection was within normal limits. Prolongation of ejection time relative to stroke volume was observed in patients with aortic insufficiency and in those with isolated aortic stenosis. The degree of prolongation in ejection time was well correlated with the severity of the aortic valvular disease. In patients with mitral valvular disease, including isolated mitral stenosis, as well as in those with mild to moderate mitral regurgitation, ejection time fell within the normal range relative to stroke volume. In patients with severe hypertensive disease, ejection time fell within the normal or low normal range relative to stroke volume. In 3 patients with pericardial disease an abnormal phasic respiratory variation in ejection time was observed. The present observations on temporal phenomena in cardiac ejection suggests the practical application of these techniques in the evaluation of patients with various cardiovascular disorders.
B48 is preferentially translated over B100 in cells with increased endogenous apo B mRNA.

We recently demonstrated that expression of BHMT in McArdle RH-7777 (McA-BHMT) cells increases apo B mRNA abundance, leading to parallel increases in apo B secretion. The ratio of unedited to edited apo B mRNA was unchanged by BHMT expression. Based on the observation that secretion of B48 is increased relative to B100 in McA-BHMT cells, current studies now include comparison of B48 and B100 synthesis and intracellular degradation. Minor differences in co- and posttranslational degradation were unable to account for relative increase in B48 secretion, and the disappearance kinetics of B48 were similar in McA-BHMT and control cells. Consistent with the increase in endogenous apo B mRNA in McA-BHMT cells, B48 synthesis is increased significantly. In contrast, synthesis of B100 was not significantly increased. We conclude that B48 is preferentially translated compared to B100 when endogenous apo B mRNA is increased.
Oxidation-reduction properties of disulfide-containing proteins of the Rhodobacter capsulatus cytochrome c biogenesis system.

Oxidation−reduction titrations for the active-site disulfide/dithiol couples of the helX- and ccl2-encoded proteins involved in cytochrome c biogenesis in the purple non-sulfur bacterium Rhodobacte...
Quantitative comparison of the intensity of Schistosoma mansoni infections in man and experimental animals

Abstract In man and mice infected with S. mansoni, a state of near equilibrium (steady state) develops in which the rates of deposition and destruction of S. mansoni eggs in the tissues are approximately equal. Infections in man and experimental animals result in roughly comparable numbers of eggs per WP (worm pair) in the tissues; however, the concentration of eggs per gramme of tissue is much higher in mice infected with a single worm pair than it is in the most heavily infected human subjects. The number of eggs per gramme of tissue of human subjects and experimental animals is roughly proportional to the number of WP per kg. BW (body weight). The intensity of infection in experimental animals is frequently greater than 50 WP per kg. BW and in mice it can never be substantially lower than this. In man, worm burdens greater than 5 WP per kg. BW have seldom been reported. Quantitative comparison of schistosome infections between species will be more meaningful if the numbers of eggs in the tissues are considered in terms of both total number and concentration. The number of eggs in the faeces of different host species can be compared only if the number of eggs passed in the faeces per day is known and related to the intensity of infection.
Specificity of glycosaminoglycan suppression of endothelin-1 production by human umbilical vein endothelial cells

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is the most potent vasoconstrictor peptide found in nature. Its production is stimulated by thrombin. By inhibiting thrombin we have previously shown that heparin, a highly negatively-charged glycosaminoglycan (GAG), suppresses the production of ET-1 by cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). The purpose of our study is to determine the effect of other GAGs and related compounds on ET-1 production. The GAGs and related compounds used in the study were: chondroitin sulfate A, chondroitin sulfate B, chondroitin sulfate C, fucoidin, low molecular weight dextran sulfate, high molecular weight dextran sulfate, and hyaluronan. HUVEC were incubated for 48 hr with media containing these GAGs and related compounds and with media without GAG as control. ET-1 levels were measured by radioimmunoassay. GAGs and related molecules with higher sulfate content, heparin, chondroitin sulfate B, low and high molecular weight dextran sulfates significantly suppressed ET-1 production by HUVEC. Fucoidin also suppressed ET-1 production despite its lower sulfate content, probably because of its structural similarity to heparin. These compounds may be useful for future in vivo studies.
Ventricular Arrhythmias due to Left Ventricular Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy: A Diagnosis in Hindsight

Left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy is a rare congenital cardiomyopathy which predisposes to sudden cardiac death. We describe the case of a 24 year-old man who had previously received an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator for sustained ventricular tachycardia and was later diagnosed with left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy during a hospitalisation for device infection.
SOME FACTORS AFFECTING THE JOB SATISFACTION OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE FACULTY IN PENNSYLVANIA

Previous research on job satisfaction among community college faculty has tended to present a picture of this faculty as a group of highly satisfied professionals. However, little attention has been given to possible sources of satisfaction/dissatisfaction. The present study presents an analysis of six facet‐specific dimensions of job satisfaction of 161 community college faculty members in Pennsylvania and examines the effects of selected personal characteristics and job related activities on these six dimensions. Findings indicate that heavy involvement in routine academic activities such as teaching, advising, working with student groups, committee work, and related tasks has an adverse effect on many dimensions of job satisfaction. Results also suggest that involvement in certain types of faculty development programs may be a leading cause of job dissatisfaction among those surveyed. Implications for collective bargaining are discussed.
Genomic Profiling of a Human Organotypic Model of AEC Syndrome Reveals ZNF750 as an Essential Downstream Target of Mutant TP63

The basis for impaired differentiation in TP63 mutant ankyloblepharon-ectodermal dysplasia-clefting (AEC) syndrome is unknown. Human epidermis harboring AEC TP63 mutants recapitulated this impairment, along with downregulation of differentiation activators, including HOPX, GRHL3, KLF4, PRDM1, and ZNF750. Gene-set enrichment analysis indicated that disrupted expression of epidermal differentiation programs under the control of ZNF750 and KLF4 accounted for the majority of disrupted epidermal differentiation resulting from AEC mutant TP63. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) analysis and ChIP-sequencing of TP63 binding in differentiated keratinocytes revealed ZNF750 as a direct target of wild-type and AEC mutant TP63. Restoring ZNF750 to AEC model tissue rescued activator expression and differentiation, indicating that AEC TP63-mediated ZNF750 inhibition contributes to differentiation defects in AEC. Incorporating disease-causing mutants into regenerated human tissue can thus dissect pathomechanisms and identify targets that reverse disease features.
13.3: Micromirror Arrays for Stereoscopic 3D Displays

A novel approach for real-time stereoscopic 3-D displays using micromirrors array is reported. This approach is reflective and thus achromatic, and it can lower the requirements for the image source. We fabricated and tested the first micromirror arrays for this approach, which showed a clear separation for left- and right-eye images.
The history of deciphering the genetic code: setting the record straight

We thank F. Frankel (University of Pennsylvania, PA, USA) for his help in preparing this article.
Method for multiplex cellular detection of mRNAs using quantum dot fluorescent in situ hybridization

The photostability and narrow emission spectra of non-organic quantum dot fluorophores (QDs) make them desirable candidates for fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) to study the expression of specific mRNA transcripts. We developed a novel method for direct QD labeling of modified oligonucleotide probes through streptavidin and biotin interactions, as well as protocols for their use in multiple-label FISH. We validated this technique in mouse brainstem sections. The subcellular localization of the vesicular monoamine transporter (Vmat2) mRNA corresponds when using probes labeled with two different QDs in the same hybridization. We developed protocols for combined direct QD FISH and QD immunohistochemical labeling within the same neurons as well as for simultaneous study of the subcellular distribution of multiple mRNA targets. We demonstrated increased sensitivity of FISH using QDs in comparison with organic fluorophores. These techniques gave excellent histological results both for multiplex FISH and combined FISH and immunohistochemistry. This approach can facilitate the ultrasensitive simultaneous study of multiple mRNA and protein markers in tissue culture and histological section.
Inferring solar structure variations from photometric and helioseismic observations

Present large scale photometric and helioseismic data may be related to spatial and temporal deviations from an otherwise static, spherical solar convection zone (SCZ). New space experiments combine precise photometric, helioseismic, and magnetic observational capabilities (like SOHO and MDI) and will provide data needed to understand the interaction of magnetic fields and global scale circulation in the SCZ. Even simple physical arguments make it clear that the anticipated accuracy of these new experiments virtually guarantees new constraints on models of the SCZ.
SERUM MAGNESIUM LEVELS IN ASTHMATIC PATIENTS DURING ACUTE EXACERBATIONS OF ASTHMA

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine whether serum magnesium levels in asthmatic patients during acute exacerbations differ from those of a control population. Twenty-three known asthmatics presenting to the emergency department in acute exacerbation (cases) and 15 nonasthmatic patients (controls) matched for age, sex, race, and socioeconomic status had serum magnesium assays drawn. Admission criteria were: age 18 to 50 years with no history of alcoholism, heart disease, renal disease, or diuretic use. Patients giving a history of pregnancy were excluded. Serum magnesium levels were not significantly different in the two study populations, nor did they correlate with the severity of asthma (mean values: cases, 2.04 ± 0.159 versus controls, 2.03 ± 0.134 mg/dL; SD of the difference of the means = .048). An analysis for β-error demonstrated the true difference of the means to be
Wanted: unique names for unique atom positions. PDB-wide analysis of diastereotopic atom names of small molecules containing diphosphate

Background Biological chemistry is very stereospecific. Nonetheless, the diastereotopic oxygen atoms of diphosphate-containing molecules in the Protein Data Bank (PDB) are often given names that do not uniquely distinguish them from each other due to the lack of standardization. This issue has largely not been addressed by the protein structure community.
Preparation of functional acetyl-CoA carboxylase mRNA from rat mammary gland

Poly(A)+ RNA from lactating rat mammary glands was fractionated according to size by isokinetic sucrose gradient centrifugation to obtain a fraction enriched for acetyl-CoA carboxylase. In vitro translation of this RNA preparation yielded apparent full-length acetyl-CoA carboxylase with a molecular weight of 260,000. The synthesized protein was identified as acetyl-CoA carboxylase by specific immunoprecipitation. Tests with antiserum to fatty acid synthetase, revealed that the fractions containing acetyl-CoA carboxylase mRNA also contained mRNA for fatty acid synthetase; both of these mRNAs were approximately 10 kb. Fatty acid synthetase with a molecular weight of 250,000 was synthesized. Using an in vitro rabbit reticulocyte lysate translation system, we have shown that the amount of translatable acetyl-CoA carboxylase mRNA increases during lactation. On the fifth day postpartum the level of translatable acetyl-CoA carboxylase mRNA increased to a peak level seven times that on the day of parturition.