cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gene therapy for chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML): a retroviral vector that renders hematopoietic progenitors methotrexate-resistant and CML progenitors functionally normal and nontumorigenic in vivo

Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is a malignant disease of the human hematopoietic stem cell caused by the BCR/ABL gene rearrangement. The only curative therapy is allogeneic transplantation. Although autologous transplants may prolong survival, most patients relapse because of disease persisting in the host and in the graft. Continued administration of chemotherapy after transplant could reduce the incidence of relapse provided that the autograft can be protected by transfer of a drug-resistance gene. However, CML autografts will almost certainly contain malignant stem cells that will also be rendered drug-resistant. The presence of the BCR/ABL oncoprotein is necessary and sufficient for malignant transformation seen in CML. We thus hypothesized that transfer of a vector that combines a drug-resistance gene with anti-BCR/ABL antisense (AS) sequences may allow for posttransplant chemotherapy to decrease persistent disease while rendering inadvertently transduced CML stem and progenitor cells functionally normal. We constructed a retroviral vector, LasBD, that combines the methotrexate (MTX)-resistant tyrosine-22 dihydrofolate-reductase (tyr22-DHFR) gene and AS sequences directed at the b3a2 BCR/ABL breakpoint. b3a2 BCR/ABL containing 32D and MO7e cells were transduced with LasBD and selected in MTX for 14 days. Expression of the AS sequences reduced BCR/ABL mRNA and p210(BCR/ABL) protein levels by 6- to 10-fold in most cells. This subsequently led to the restoration of normal function of BCR/ABL cDNA+ cells: they grew significantly slower in the presence of interleukin-3 (IL-3); they underwent apoptotic cell death when cultured without IL-3; and they had restored expression and function of adhesion receptors. These effects were specific, because LasBD-containing AS sequences directed at the b3a2 BCR/ABL breakpoint did not affect p190(BCR/ABL)-containing cells. LasBD also rendered 20% to 30% of primary Ph- and Ph+ CD34(+) cells MTX-resistant and decreased BCR/ABL mRNA levels in MTX resistant Ph+ CD34(+) cells by 10-fold. Expression of the MTX-resistant DHFR gene and the AS sequences has been stable for at least 1 year in vitro and for more than 70 days in vivo. Finally, LasBD decreased tumorigenicity of 32DBCR/ABL cells in vivo by 3 to 4 logs. In conclusion, the tyr22-DHFR gene in the LasBD vector can protect normal hematopoietic cells from MTX-mediated toxicity, whereas the AS sequences in LasBD can suppress expression of the BCR/ABL gene and restore normal function of BCR/ABL cDNA-containing cells. The LasBD vector may therefore prove to be an extremely useful adjunct in autologous transplantation for CML.
Evaluation of the Person Under Investigation

A person under investigation (PUI) is defined as a patient who presents with both clinical and epidemiological risk factors for a specific infectious disease. In the case of infectious diseases that present risks of transmission to healthcare workers (HCWs) and patients, the use of the identify-isolate-inform framework is essential to protect staff and patients and the delivery of safe and effective care. This includes early identification of PUIs, institution of appropriate transmission-based precautions including use of specific personal protective equipment (PPE) and isolation, and prompt notification of relevant personnel, including relevant experts and authorities.
A Compound Thin Film Thermometer

We describe an arrangement of thin film superconducting transition edge thermometers, useful for third sound measurements, that provides an extended range of sensitivity beyond that of a typical single thermometer. We connect thin film strips of zinc and aluminum in series but position them physically in close proximity on a glass substrate where they operate over the range 0.1K≤T≤1.7K. A description of the construction and a full characterization of a typical such thermometer arrangement is provided.
The role of tumor necrosis factor in health and disease

The vast and growing array of cytokines is the subject of intense research for their potential to ameliorate a range of diseases that extends from autoimmune disorders to cancer and beyond. Among the cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) has proven to be a key ligand in triggering many intracellular processes, both physiological and pathological. Understanding its role in rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease has produced effective new therapeutic agents, and there is reason to expect greater success as research proceeds. New synthetic macromolecules are effectively interfering with TNF and other ligands at and before the cellular membrane interface. This article reviews current knowledge of the molecular mechanics of TNF and the therapeutic inhibition of TNF action. Unraveling these processes has led to many insights into cytokine physiology and pathology.
The SEC's Role in the Global Era: How the SEC Will Protect U.S. Investors in Foreign Markets

Globalization has affected the political, economic, social, and technological spheres of the Earth.1 Globalization's reach is also extending to and transforming the world's financial sector, creating2 the potential for a redistribution of wealth among countries throughout the world3 by enabling people to invest in, and profit from, other countries, regions, and continents. Up to this point, corporations have been the primary international investors and have accomplished this through direct foreign investment.4 With the growth of
Predicting state police officer alcohol consumption and use of tobacco

Criminal justice research has well documented the fact that law enforcement officers experience a significant amount of stress. Research also suggests law enforcement officers use tobacco (which is...
Abstract 147: The Trend of In-hospital Complications During Acute Ischemic Stroke Hospitalization Among US Elderly

Background: Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of long-term disability in adult. Many efforts have been devoted to improve the stroke quality of c...
Is a culture of health always healthy

Health care systems in the United States are increasingly focused on addressing the social and cultural determinants of health (ie, a biopsychosocial model of disease). We applaud this important and laudable shift within US healthcare, which has long been dominated by a merely biomedical model of disease. However, we offer three reasons for nurses and other healthcare providers to proceed with caution; otherwise, human culture could become merely a tool of the healthcare industry to be instrumentally deployed in meeting its procedural goals.
The Evolution of Target Hemoglobin Levels in Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease.

Since the introduction of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) into clinical practice in 1989, considerable effort has been put forth toward identifying the optimal treatment strategy for managing anemia of CKD. After initial treatment of only the most severely anemic patients, therapy was subsequently expanded to include most patients on dialysis and many nondialysis CKD patients. Many nephrology societies and regulatory agencies have sought to identify the most appropriate hemoglobin levels to which ESA therapy should be targeted. As increasing evidence became available about the impacts of ESAs on varying endpoints including morbidity, mortality, and quality of life, the guidelines put forth by such agencies evolved over time. We review the literature impacting these determinations through the past 3 decades and comment on how this informs the application of this knowledge to the care of patients today.
Identification of cell context-dependent YAP-associated proteins reveals β 1 and β 4 integrin mediate YAP translocation independently of cell spreading.

Yes-associated protein (YAP) is a transcriptional regulator and mechanotransducer, relaying extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness into proliferative gene expression in 2D culture. Previous studies show that YAP activation is dependent on F-actin stress fiber mediated nuclear pore opening, however the protein mediators of YAP translocation remain unclear. Here, we show that YAP co-localizes with F-actin during activating conditions, such as sparse plating and culturing on stiff 2D substrates. To identify proteins mediating YAP translocation, we performed co-immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry (co-IP/MS) for proteins that differentially associated with YAP under activating conditions. Interestingly, YAP preferentially associates with β1 integrin under activating conditions, and β4 integrin under inactivating conditions. In activating conditions, CRISPR/Cas9 knockout (KO) of β1 integrin (ΔITGB1) resulted in decreased cell area, which correlated with decreased YAP nuclear localization. ΔITGB1 did not significantly affect the slope of the correlation between YAP nuclear localization with area, but did decrease overall nuclear YAP independently of cell spreading. In contrast, β4 integrin KO (ΔITGB4) cells showed no change in cell area and similarly decreased nuclear YAP. These results reveal proteins that differentially associate with YAP during activation, which may aid in regulating YAP nuclear translocation.
An introduction to the issues

Substantial questions have been raised; only expanded research and development efforts can provide answers beyond serious dispute
Health-Related Quality of Life Impairments and Benefits 15-19 Years after Lung or Heart Transplant

Purpose Growing numbers of patients are entering the very late term period (15+ yrs) of survivorship after cardiothoracic transplant (CTx). Their health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is unknown. We examined (a) degree of late-term HRQOL impairment in multiple domains, (b) HRQOL benefit in areas of personal growth and life satisfaction, and (c) demographic, psychosocial, and clinical correlates of HRQOL. Methods Among 178 lung and 126 heart recipients from a single-site prospective study during the first 2 yrs post-CTx, we recontacted survivors 15-19 yrs post-CTx. We used validated scales to assess HRQOL impairments (SF-36) and benefits (personal growth from transplant experience [Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory]; having new life goals [Life Engagement Scale]; global life satisfaction rating). We examined HRQOL outcomes’ associations with other patient characteristics using multivariable regression. Results Of 82 survivors, 64 (84%) were assessed (n=29 lung, 35 heart recipients; M±SD=16±1 y post-CTx, range 15-19; 61% male; age 66±11). They were impaired in physical functional HRQOL domains, relative to norms (Fig 1). Mean mental health and social functioning were similar to or better than norms. Personal growth, and life engagement and satisfaction averaged higher than the scales’ midpoints (p Conclusion Despite physical functional HRQOL impairments in the late years after CTx, mental and social HRQOL is strikingly high and other HRQOL benefits are prominent. Because patients with more dyspnea and poorer psychosocial resources appear at risk for more HRQOL impairment and less HRQOL benefit, interventions targeting such individuals may help to maximize their HRQOL.
Lithium–Ion Batteries

Currently used electrolytes for lithium ion batteries have poor thermal stability, which results in a decrease in their calendar life. The thermal decomposition reactions of LiPF6-based electrolytes in solution and with the surfaces of the electrode materials are reviewed. Methods to inhibit thermal decomposition reactions and improve calendar life are also discussed. Keywords: electric vechiles; energy storage; calender life; lithium ion batteries; electrolytes; thermal stability
Load Asymmetry Angle Estimation Using Multiple-View Videos

A robust computer vision-based approach is developed to estimate the load asymmetry angle defined in the revised NIOSH lifting equation. The angle of asymmetry enables the computation of a recommended weight limit for repetitive lifting operations in a workplace to prevent lower back injuries. An open-source package OpenPose is applied to estimate the two-dimensional (2-D) locations of skeletal joints of the worker from two synchronous videos. Combining these joint location estimates, a computer vision correspondence and depth estimation method is developed to estimate the 3-D coordinates of skeletal joints during lifting. The angle of asymmetry is then deduced from a subset of these 3-D positions. Error analysis reveals unreliable angle estimates due to occlusions of upper limbs. A robust angle estimation method that mitigates this challenge is developed. We propose a method to flag unreliable angle estimates based on the average confidence level of 2-D joint estimates provided by OpenPose. An optimal threshold is derived that balances the percentage variance reduction of the estimation error and the percentage of angle estimates flagged. Tested with 360 lifting instances in a NIOSH-provided dataset, the standard deviation of angle estimation error is reduced from 10.13° to 4.99°. To realize this error variance reduction, 34% of estimated angles are flagged and require further validation.
Gastrointestinal Cells: Growth Factors, Transformation, and Malignancy

At the cellular level, growth regulation and differentiation of normal and malignant gastrointestinal (GI) epithelium are poorly understood. This is due to many factors, including previous difficulties in culturing GI cells in vitro for a useful time period (1–4). That problem has been rectified by our development of alternative methods for culturing normal human and animal GI cells (5,6) and GI tumor cells (7). In addition, our recent successful transformation of human colon cells (8) with the chemical carcinogen, azoxymethane, and the oncogenic virus simian virus (SV40) provides a baseline for expanding studies of in vitro transformation to include alternate sources of GI cells. In this paper, we relate some recent studies of in vitro transformation, growth, and characterization utilizing human and rodent GI cells.
Interferons and Interferon Inactivators in Aids, Arc and in Cancer Patients

It is becoming increasingly evident that changes in various parameters of the interferon system and in the levels of prostaglandins and cyclic nucleotides have a definite role during the health and during the onset, progression and the final outcome of any disease process. In spite of ever increasing excitement over the possible clinical application of interferons, very little is known about the changes and sources of variations in the interferon production capabilities of different individuals. Heterogeneity of human interferons is now well document from the earlier work (1) as well as from more recent work based upon DNA recombinant technology (2–4). However, the clinical significance of such a heterogeneity is not known. Cloned interferons used at present in the treatment of any type of infections are a product of a single gene. It is quite possible that expression of different interferon genes varies considerably in different types of infections and malignancies. If that is the case, it may be necessary to use a custom-tailored interferon preparation for each type of infection. Such an approach at best appears to be several years away. In view of lack of such a knowledge, it seems appropriate that serious attempts should be made towards better understanding of the host’s own interferon system during infection and ways and means of its manipulation for maximal benefit. In this text, some attempts have been made in this direction.
Mg2+ Block Unmasks Ca2+/Ba2+ Selectivity of α1G T-Type Calcium Channels

Abstract We have examined permeation by Ca 2+ and Ba 2+ , and block by Mg 2+ , using whole-cell recordings from α 1G T-type calcium channels stably expressed in HEK 293 cells. Without Mg o 2+ , inward currents were comparable with Ca 2+ and Ba 2+ . Surprisingly, three other results indicate that α 1G is actually selective for Ca 2+ over Ba 2+ . 1) Mg 2+ block is ∼7-fold more potent with Ba 2+ than with Ca 2+ . With near-physiological (1mM) Mg o 2+ , inward currents were ∼3-fold larger with 2mM Ca 2+ than with 2mM Ba 2+ . The stronger competition between Ca 2+ and Mg 2+ implies that Ca 2+ binds more tightly than Ba 2+ . 2) Outward currents (carried by Na + ) are blocked more strongly by Ca 2+ than by Ba 2+ . 3) The reversal potential is more positive with Ca 2+ than with Ba 2+ , thus P Ca > P Ba . We conclude that α 1G can distinguish Ca 2+ from Ba 2+ , despite the similar inward currents in the absence of Mg o 2+ . Our results can be explained by a 2-site, 3-barrier model if Ca 2+ enters the pore 2-fold more easily than Ba 2+ but exits the pore at a 2-fold lower rate.
Simplified aortic cannulation (SAC) – a useful technique for neonates with small aortas

A simplified means of arterial cannulation for cardiopulmonary bypass in small neonates and those infants with diminutive aortas, or requiring reconstruction of the ascending aorta, is presented. It involves suturing a long 3.5 mm graft to the innominate artery and inserting the arterial cannula into the end of the graft. This technique improves exposure, thereby greatly simplifying many complex repairs, and may be used for initiation of ECMO or for hybrid procedures in the postoperative period.
NON‐NORMALITY AS DISTRIBUTIONAL MISSPECIFICATION IN SINGLE‐EQUATION LIMITED DEPENDENT VARIABLE MODELS

This paper provides a reevaluation of often-used limited dependent variable models. It shows that parameter estimators based on such models may be seriously biased and inconsistent if the true d istribution of the disturbance term deviates from normality. The degr ee of difference from normality is controlled in this paper by varyin g the skewness and kurtosis of the true distribution-these are distri butional characteristics that an empirical researcher can easily chec k for himself. This paper proposes to alert users of limited dependen t variable models to the potential problems of these models in the fa ce of nonnormality. Copyright 1987 by Blackwell Publishing Ltd
MOLECULAR REGULATION AND ITS POSSIBLE EVOLUTIONARY SIGNIFICANCE

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the possible evolutionary significance of molecular regulation. The occurrence of genetic repression–depression phenomena, and their potential importance as prime regulators of genetic expression and cellular activity, has led to suggestions that the whole enzymic apparatus of a cell might be subjected to this sort of genetic regulation. If in evolutionary terms, a change from inducible regulation to constitutive production of a protein, or vice versa, eventually results in a change in stability of the corresponding mRNA, it is expected that, on occasion, the cell has had to pay a price for an advantage gained. An alteration in stability would be expected to be dependent on a change in base sequence. The testing of such ideas should await the development of more refined techniques for measuring the levels of many specific mRNAs, for determining nucleic acid structure, and for understanding how the structure and function are related in the nucleic acids and proteins.
Observations of HII Regions and Planetary Nebulae: The Infrared Emission Bands

Advances in infrared spectrometers and the theory that PAHs are responsible for the infrared emission bands nave led to a wealth of new information in recent years. High quality data have shown many weak emission bands which are diagnostic of the material producing the bands. While correlations of the strengths of the narrow bands indicate that a single material can account for all of the narrow bands, independent spatial behavior of the narrow and broad components show that they have different origins. Predictions of the behavior of the spectra based on laboratory data have been confirmed observationally, strengthening the theory that PAH molecules are the origin of the infrared emission bands.
Mixed Lymphocyte Reactivity and Cell‐Mediated Lympholysis to D‐End Differences of the Murine Major Histocompatibility Complex

In vitro mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC) responses and the in vitro induction of cell-mediated lympholysis (CML) were studied in congenic strain combinations in which the responding and stimulating strains differed either at the entire major histocompatibility complex (MHC) or only at the D end of the MHC. In contrast to previously reported studies, the relative strengths of stimulation by 'D end only' differences or by whole MHC differences were examined by stimulating identical responding populations with titrated numbers of stimulating cells that differed from the responder either at the D end only or over the entire MHC. When tested in this manner isolated D-end differences were sufficient to generate significant MLC and CML responses in each combination tested. Several 'D end only' differences (the responses of B10.A to B10.A(2R); of B10.A(2R) to B10.A; of B10.D2 to B10.HTG; and of B10.HTG to B10.D2 were several fold less efficient in stimulating MLC and CML responses than were control stimulating cells differing over the whole MHC. In contrast, when the mutant D-end allele da was present on the stimulating cell (the responses of B10.D2 to B10.D2(M504) and of B10 to B10.D2(R106)), stimulation by an isolated D-end difference was comparable to stimulation by broader MHC differences. These findings are discussed in terms of the possible functional complexity of the D region.
The Architecture of a Water‐Selective Pore in the Lipid Bilayer Visualized by Electron Crystallography in Vitreous Ice

The water-selective pathway through aquaporin 1 (AQP1) membrane channel has been visualized by fitting an atomic model to a 3.7 A resolution three-dimensional density map. This map was determined by analysing images and electron diffraction patterns of lipid-reconstituted two-dimensional crystals of AQP1 preserved in vitrified buffer in the absence of any additive. The aqueous pathway in a monomer is characterized by a size-selective, to approximately 4.0 +/- 0.5 A wide pore that spans a length of to approximately 18 and bends by to approximately 25 degrees as it traverses the bilayer. This narrow pore is connected by wide, funnel-shaped openings at the extracellular and cytoplasmic faces, and is outlined mostly by hydrophobic residues interspersed with short stretches of polar amino acids, which results in relatively inert pathway conducive to diffusion-limited water flow. Although not visible at the current resolution, the 3D structure suggests putative binding sites for water molecules in the size-selective pore.
DNA repeat arrays in chicken and human genomes and the adaptive evolution of avian genome size

Birds have smaller average genome sizes than other tetrapod classes, and it has been proposed that a relatively low frequency of repeating DNA is one factor in reduction of avian genome sizes. DNA repeat arrays in the sequenced portion of the chicken (Gallus gallus) autosomes were quantified and compared with those in human autosomes. In the chicken 10.3% of the genome was occupied by DNA repeats, in contrast to 44.9% in human. In the chicken, the percentage of a chromosome occupied by repeats was positively correlated with chromosome length, but even the largest chicken chromosomes had repeat densities much lower than those in human, indicating that avoidance of repeats in the chicken is not confined to minichromosomes. When 294 simple sequence repeat types shared between chicken and human genomes were compared, mean repeat array length and maximum repeat array length were significantly lower in the chicken than in human. The fact that the chicken simple sequence repeat arrays were consistently smaller than arrays of the same type in human is evidence that the reduction in repeat array length in the chicken has involved numerous independent evolutionary events. This implies that reduction of DNA repeats in birds is the result of adaptive evolution. Reduction of DNA repeats on minichromosomes may be an adaptation to permit chiasma formation and alignment of small chromosomes. However, the fact that repeat array lengths are consistently reduced on the largest chicken chromosomes supports the hypothesis that other selective factors are at work, presumably related to the reduction of cell size and consequent advantages for the energetic demands of flight.
Efficient and robust multicast routing in mobile ad hoc networks

We present the protocol for unified multicasting through announcements (PUMA) in ad-hoc networks, which establishes and maintains a shared mesh for each multicast group, without requiring a unicast routing protocol or the preassignment of cores to groups. PUMA achieves a high data delivery ratio with very limited control overhead, which is almost constant for a wide range of network conditions. Using simulations in Qualnet 3.5, we compare PUMA with ODMRP and MAODV, which are representatives of mesh-based and tree-based multicast routing in ad hoc networks. The results from a wide range of scenarios of varying mobility, group members, number of senders, traffic load, and number of multicast groups show that PUMA attains higher packet delivery ratios than ODMRP and MAODV, while incurring far less control overhead.
The synovial cadherin (cadherin-11) mediates tissue formation and promotes invasion of fibroblast-like synoviocytes

Cadherins are integral membrane homophilic adhesion proteins that mediate adhesion between cells of the same type within a tissue. Cadherins mediate tissue morphogenesis during development and maintenance of tissue architecture in adults. We recently found that cadherin-11 is expressed in human fibroblast-like synoviocytes. We demonstrate that the expression of the synovial cadherin promotes cell invasion and confers on cells the ability to become organized into synovial lining-like architecture in vitro. We generated cadherin-11-expressing fibroblast L-cell clones and empty vector transfected L-cell controls. Phase-contrast microscopy analysis demonstrated that cadherin-11-transfected L-cells form extensive and intimate contacts along their surfaces, and condense together at higher cell density to form a continuous sheet of cells in vitro. In contrast, L-cells transfected with control empty vector are loosely organized and do not form a tissue-like structure. We have established an in vitro model for synovial lining formation. Interestingly, at the edge of fibronectin-coated culture areas, the cadherin-11-expressing L-cells piled up and formed a continuous lining layer-like architecture after 2 days in culture, whereas the control L-cells failed to form this lining morphology. Matrigel invasion assays revealed a twofold to threefold increased invasive capacity of the cadherin-11-transfected L-cells when compared with L-cells transfected with control vector. To determine the molecular mechanisms of cadherin-11-dependent cell invasion, we generated cadherin-11 constructs of the cytoplasmic tail that delete domains implicated in binding critical intracellular molecules that control cadherin function. Strikingly, deletion of the juxtamembrane domain, known to bind p120-catenin, profoundly altered the invasive capacity of these cells. These in vitro studies suggest a role for cadherin-11 in tissue and lining layer formation in the synovium and the invasive nature of fibroblast-like synoviocytes in chronic synovitis and in rheumatoid arthritis.
Transhepatic insertion of vascular dialysis catheters in children: a safe, life-prolonging procedure.

Introduction. Central venous catheters (CVC) have been inserted percutaneously since 1989. This technique has been adapted for transhepatic insertion of large-bore catheters in children with occluded central veins. Materials and methods. Three children aged 5, 11, and 12 years required hemodialysis or plasmaphoresis for treatment of life-threatening conditions. All central veins were occluded, thus transhepatic insertion of a large-bore catheter was necessary. All children underwent successful placement using a combination of ultrasound guidance and fluoroscopy. No complications occurred. Discussion. Transhepatic insertion of large-bore catheters can be performed safely in children. Catheter removal should be accompanied by track embolization to prevent exsanguinating hemorrhage. Conclusion. Transhepatic insertion of dialysis catheters is a safe alternative in children with occluded central veins.
Validation of irradiation of broccoli with a 10 MeV electron beam accelerator

Abstract Electron beam irradiation can inhibit pathogens in fresh produce while maintaining its quality. However, proper dose determination in complex-shaped produce is difficult, and needs further evaluation to ensure adequate irradiation treatment. The objective of this study was to establish the best treatment for irradiation of a broccoli head by comparing simulated dose distributions from Monte Carlo simulation and computed tomography (CT) scan data with those measured using standard dosimeters (alanine pellets and radiochromic films). Values of 3-D geometry and component densities of a broccoli head were entered into a radiation transport code (MCNP5) to simulate dose distribution. The broccoli head was irradiated with a 10 MeV double beam (top and bottom) linear accelerator. Dose levels ranged from 1 to 3 kGy. Several irradiation strategies were simulated (position of the product related to the beam entrance and, beam sources) and compared with the experimental data. The best results were obtained when the broccoli was irradiated at a 132.5° angle using the double beam configuration. The D max / D min , a measure of the dose uniformity, was 1.72 around the floret and, 2.22 for the whole broccoli. These results provide valuable information for irradiation treatment planning of complex-shaped fresh produce, thus ensuring that the product is uniformly exposed to the target dose while preserving its quality attributes.
Experimental evaluation of testability measures for test generation (logic circuits)

The results of an extensive study of five existing testability measures when used to aid heuristics for automatic test pattern generation algorithms are presented. Each measure was evaluated using over 60000 faults in circuits of varying size and complexity. The performance of these measures was rated using several different criteria. Based on these results the performance of a composite test generation strategy that uses multiple guidance heuristics was evaluated. The results indicate that this strategy not only provides better fault coverage but also reduces the average time taken to generate a test or determine that a given fault is undetectable. >
Advance Directives: Limitations to Completion

The number of elderly persons is expected to increase to 55 million by 2020, with the minority population increasing to 12.9 million, yet fewer than 30% of Americans have advance directives in place. Cultural values, religious beliefs, and family support systems are a few of the factors that influence or hinder the completion of advance directives. Health care provider perspectives regarding advance directives vary greatly with health care settings. Many primary care providers are reluctant to initiate conversations regarding advance directives for multiple reasons. Nurse practitioners cover more than 600 million office visits per year in the United States and are in a key position to educate, advocate, and assist in the completion of advance directives.
Comparison of Statistical Estimation Techniques for Mars Entry, Descent, and Landing Reconstruction

Flight data from an entry, descent, and landing sequence can be used to reconstruct the vehicle's trajectory, aerodynamic coefficients, and the atmospheric profile experienced by the vehicle. Past Mars missions have not contained instrumentation that would allow for the separation of uncertainties in the atmosphere and the aerodynamic database. The 2012 Mars Science Laboratory took measurements of the pressure distribution on the aeroshell forebody during entry and allows freestream atmospheric conditions to be partially observable. Methods to estimate the flight performance statistically using onboard measurements are demonstrated here through the use of simulated Mars data. A range of statistical estimators, specifically the extended Kalman filter and unscented Kalman filter, are used to demonstrate which estimator best quantifies the states and the uncertainties in the flight parameters. The techniques demonstrated herein are planned for application to the Mars Science Laboratory flight dataset.
Postdramatic Stress Syndrome: Dood Paard's medEia at P.S. 122

Art—or at least the kind we most like to write about—is almost always political, whether it is inter/national or personal; and though TDR has already taken this up in its “War and Other Bad Shit” issue, the topic remains center stage. In his review of Dutch theatre troupe Dood Paard's medEia, Jacob Gallagher-Ross notes the emergence of “a new age of the chorus” in which spectatorship becomes inseparable from paralyzed witnessing and Medea's tragedy is reconceived as a metaphor for the West's tragic relations with the East. Laurietz Seda explores Guillermo Gomez-Pena's recent performance/installation Mapa/Corpo 2: Interactive Rituals for the New Millennium, a fluid piece that, like much of the artist's recent work, addresses the xenophobia and “war on difference” that underlies the US's ongoing War on Terror. The Burmese stand-up trio the Moustache Brothers is the subject of Xan Colman and Tamara Searle's personal account of how performance can be both art and resistance in a contradictory and charged poli...
Use of Discretionary Environmental Accounting Narratives to Influence Stakeholders: The Case of Jurors’ Award Assessments

This experimental study extends prior capital market and environmental accounting research by utilizing the theoretical underpinnings of legitimation through impression management, source credibility bias, perceived trust, and ideology in assessing the influence of discretionary environmental accounting narratives on jurors’ punitive damage award assessments. We utilize mock jurors as environmental stakeholders and find that: (1) jurors in a court case involving corporate environmental malfeasance assess lower punitive damage awards against a firm that provides discretionary disclosure on its website regarding future abatement and control narratives, (2) environmental sensitivity of the firm’s industry moderates the negative relationship between the discretionary disclosure and jurors’ punitive damage award assessments, and (3) juror’s perceived trust toward firm management mediates the prior moderation effect. Further, juror political ideology is found to affect the punitive damage award assessments, with liberal jurors levying comparatively higher awards than conservative jurors.
A view of prescriptive practice collaboration: perspectives of psychiatric-mental health clinical nurse specialists and psychiatrists.

Abstract A majority of states require collaborative prescribing agreements between advanced practice nurses and physicians. Unfortunately, there is limited research describing the collaboration that occurs between the clinicians who have such prescribing agreements. This exploratory study identifies the characteristics, activities, and outcomes of collaboration between psychiatric-mental health clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) with prescribing agreements and their collaborating psychiatrists. Surveys were sent to all the 73 prescribing psychiatric-mental health CNSs identified by the Minnesota Board of Nursing in 1998 and their primary collaborating psychiatrists. Forty-nine CNSs and 32 psychiatrists returned the surveys with 31 matched collaborating dyads identified. Overall satisfaction with the collaborative relationship was high, CNSs ( = 4.34/5) and psychiatrists ( = 4.46/5). Good communication, trust, shared goals for patient outcomes, shared professional values, and respect for clinical competency were identified as important characteristics for effective collaboration. CNSs identified increased professional growth and job satisfaction as professional benefits, while psychiatrists reported shared workload responsibilities. Fewer than half of the CNSs and psychiatrists perceived professional liability as a professional constraint. Psychiatric-mental health CNSs and psychiatrists agreed that the continuity of patient care and efficient access to mental health care were patient benefits. The statistically significant differences between the CNSs' and psychiatrists' responses were related to the number of years they had been in practice, the number of years the CNS had been a prescriber, and the length of time the CNS and psychiatrist had worked together within a collaborative prescribing agreement.
Effects of Automatic Gain Control on Phase-Locked Loop Behavior in the Presence of Interference

The behavior of a second-order phase-locked loop (PLL) in the presence of an interfering signal has been analyzed by different authors with different results. The discrepancy is attributed to the presence or absence of an automatic gain controlled amplifier preceeding the PLL. Simulation results verify that the presence of the automatic gain controlled amplifier reduces the tendency of the PLL to break lock from the desired signal in favor of the interfering signal
T cell signalling through CD73.

Abstract CD73 (ecto-5′-nucleotidase), a glycosyl phosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchored purine salvage enzyme expressed on the surface of human T and B lymphocytes, catalyzes the conversion of purine and pyrimidine ribo- and deoxyribonucleoside monophosphates to the corresponding nucleosides. The cellular distribution, cDNA sequence, and structure of CD73 are reviewed. CD73 serves as a costimulatory molecule in activating T cells. A Jurkat T cell line transfected with the CD73 cDNA revealed that neither enzymatic activity nor the GPI anchor is necessary for T cell activation in vitro via CD73, while expression of p56lck, CD45 and the T cell receptor are required. Models for the transmission of signals via CD73 and other GPI-anchored proteins are discussed. CD73 generated adenosine functions in cell signalling in many physiologic systems, including intestinal epithelium, ischemic myocardium, and cholinergic synapses. The hypothesis that CD73 produces adenosine that is important for T cell development is presented.
Interrelationships between estrogen and progesterone secretion and trauma-induced deciduomata. On causes of uterine refractoriness in the "Parlow rat".

Estrogen, progesterone, and 20αhydroxypregn-4-en-3-one (20α-OH-P) were measured in ovarian vein blood of PMS-HCG-treated immature rats during follicular growth and luteinization. Twenty-four hr after PMS, estrogen increased over the preinjection level [0.22 to 6.56 ng estradiol-17β equivalent (EE)/ml], and a maximum of 16.8 ng/EE/ml was measured 48 hr after PMS. A decrease was evident on the 4th day, and by the 8th day estradiol levels were near preinjection values. Piogesterone and 20α-OH-P, undetectable in 26- to 28-day-old female rats, increased significantly (8.41 and 5.34 μg/ ml, resp.) 6 days after PMS. Decreases were indicated by 8 days. HCG given 60 hr after PMS did not immediately alter the decline of estrogen; however, on the 4th day after HCG, estrogen rose significantly (p <0.005) above the 3rd day level. Thereafter, estrogen declined sharply to plateau at the pre-PMS level by the 6th day after HCG. Prolonged maintenance of high progesterone levels related to HCG administration, but 20α-OH-P f...
Plasticity in the Neurotransmitter Repertoire

In the earliest days of neuroscience, it was thought that a neuron made and released only a single chemical, known as a neurotransmitter, to send a signal across a synapse to an adjacent neuron ( 1 ). At the same time, it was deeply mysterious why so many signaling molecules were used in nervous systems. Subsequently, it became clear that many, if not most, neurons (including those in mammals) make and release two or more neurotransmitters including small-molecules and neuropeptides ( 2 – 4 ). As the list of these potential cotransmitters and their receptors has increased, we are faced with understanding the functional relevance of this embarrassment of riches for neural circuits and behavior. Neurotransmitters and neuromodulators (substances often released with small-molecule neurotransmitters) can elicit a variety of different actions on their neuron targets, including directly opening ion channels or acting through signal transduction pathways to alter neuronal excitability or synaptic transmission. Thus, characterizing the mixture of cotransmitters released by a neuron is important for understanding how neuronal circuits operate. The mechanisms that change the profile of neurotransmitter release provide opportunities for plastic changes in circuit function, and consequently in organism behavior. On page 449 of this issue, Dulcis et al. ( 5 ) report changes in the neurotransmitter profile of neurons that underlie photoperiod-triggered changes in animal behavior. The findings argue that neurotransmitter switching is a new mechanism for neuroplasticity ( 6 ) in adult nervous systems.
Vapor−Liquid Critical Properties of Elements and Compounds. 5. Branched Alkanes and Cycloalkanes

This is part 5 of a series of contributions by the critical properties group of the IUPAC Commission 1.2 on Thermodynamics, Subcommittee on Thermodynamic Data. It presents all the known experimental data for the critical temperature, pressure, and volume of branched alkanes and cycloalkanes. Critical temperatures have been converted to the ITS-90 scale. Recommendations together with uncertainties are given for 54 compounds.
Cuban Revelations: Behind the Scenes in Havana

Marc Frank is a journalist for Reuters, The Financial Times, and ABC News, residing in Havana. His articles are factual, timely, descriptive and well written, as is his new book, Cuban Revelations....
Rapid 3-D Imaging of Contrast Flow: Application in a Perfused Kidney Phantom

Abstract Previous studies indicate imaging of ultrasound contrast in 3-D is potentially superior to 2-D imaging for vascular characterization. A dual-beam, dynamic refill technique, which relies on volumetric contrast clearance and sequential imaging, was used to image a preserved porcine kidney perfused with contrast. A model was developed for the contrast profile across the renal artery to estimate fractional blood volume. This model was used along with refill curve information to measure absolute perfusion within renal cortex for a 100-cm3 volume. Perfusion measurements from a slice within the volume were also made using a modified interval imaging technique. The measured perfusion using the dual-beam technique was consistent with the perfusion measured using the interval imaging technique (dual-beam values were 1.06 ± 0.04 × corresponding interval imaging values). These experiments suggest that ultrasound contrast perfusion measurements are independent of the volume of contrast eliminated before refill. (E-mail: gllec@umich.edu )
Adaptive compensation for an optical tracking telescope

The application of model referenced adaptive control theory to an optical tracking telescope is discussed. The capability of the adaptive technique to compensate for mount irregularities such as inertial variations and bearing friction is demonstrated via field test results on a large tracking telescope. Results are presented which show a 6 to 1 improvement in tracking accuracy for a worst case satellite trajectory.
Epitope-guided engineering of monobody binders for in vivo inhibition of Erk-2 signaling.

Although the affinity optimization of protein binders is straightforward, engineering epitope specificity is more challenging. Targeting a specific surface patch is important because the biological relevance of protein binders depends on how they interact with the target. They are particularly useful to test hypotheses motivated by biochemical and structural studies. We used yeast display to engineer monobodies that bind a defined surface patch on the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) Erk-2. The targeted area (“CD” domain) is known to control the specificity and catalytic efficiency of phosphorylation by the kinase by binding a linear peptide (“D” peptide) on substrates and regulators. An inhibitor of the interaction should thus be useful for regulating Erk-2 signaling in vivo. Although the CD domain constitutes only a small percentage of the surface area of the enzyme (∼5%), sorting a yeast displayed monobody library with wild type (wt) Erk-2 and a rationally designed mutant led to isolation of hig...
Effects of phytase on apparent digestibility of organic phosphorus and nutrients in maize–soya bean meal based diets for sows

Abstract Thirty crossbred sows (PIC-22) were used to investigate the effects of phytase on phosphorus utilization and the lactation performance of sows for two dietary inorganic phosphorus contents in maize–soya bean meal diets. The sows were allotted to treatments on day 100 of gestation. The treatment diet (Phytase) contained 5.4 g total phosphorus/kg with added phytase (Natuphos ® ) at 500 Phytase Units (PU)/kg diet and the control diet (Control) contained 7.4 g total phosphorus/kg without added phytase. Chromic oxide (2.5 g/kg) was added to the diets as a marker to determine apparent digestibility of feed composition. Blood samples were collected from the anterior vena cava at farrowing and at weaning to determine serum inorganic phosphorus and urea nitrogen. The coefficient of total tract apparent digestibility (CTTAD) of total phosphorus, organic phosphorus, crude protein and organic matter in the phytase diet was, respectively, 0.73, 0.61, 0.73 and 0.83, which was significantly higher ( P P P
GABAA receptor immunoreactivity in adult and developing monkey sensory-motor cortex.

The areal and laminar distribution of GABAA receptor immunoreactivity was examined in fetal, early postnatal and adult monkey sensory-motor cortex by using a monoclonal antibody to the purified GABAA receptor complex (Vitorica et al. 1988). GABAA receptor immunoreactivity was distributed throughout the neuropil, often outlining the unstained somata of pyramidal and non-pyramidal cells. In all areas of the adult sensory-motor cortex, layers I–IIIA exhibited the most intense immunostaining. In deeper layers of the four cytoarchitectonic fields of the first somatic sensory area (SI), layers IIIB and V were lightly stained and alternated with somewhat more intensely stained layers IV and VI. In deeper layers of area 4, the deeper half of layer IIIA through layer VA was lightly immunostained, but layers VB and VI were slightly more intensely immunoreactive. A variable number of nonpyramidal cell somata in the cortex and underlying white matter showed immunoreactive staining. GABAA receptor immunoreactivity was present throughout the sensory-motor cortex from the youngest fetal age examined (E121), but the pattern of immunostaining differed from that in the adult. In all areas, the densest immunoreactivity was found in a diffuse band in layers III and IV and in the subplate zone. Within the subplate zone, the presence of receptor immunoreactivity and some intensely stained neuronal somata at all fetal ages suggests the presence of a synaptic neuropil. With increasing age, gradual changes in the distribution of receptor immunoreactivity occurred, resulting in an adult-like pattern of immunostaining by postnatal day 1.5. These results show that the laminar pattern of GABAA receptor distribution closely follows the major concentrations of GABA immunoreactive neurons in adults and it is suggested that laminar changes seen in development are associated with the establishment of afferent connections and inhibitory circuits in the sensory-motor cortex.