cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
DNA Hybridization and Avian Phylogenetics

The phylogenetic relationships of birds are currently being studied from a number of different perspectives. Not only are distinct types of data being employed, but so, too, are alternative methods of analysis, including phenetics, evolutionary systematics, and cladistics. The last decade has seen more advance in our knowledge of avian relationships than perhaps during any other comparable period, and given the growing number of systematists, we can expect our understanding to continue developing in the years to come.
Establishing the waist as the better location for attaching a single accelerometer to estimate center of pressure trajectories.

Abstract Background In this study, we seek to replace conventional force platforms with a single accelerometer for measuring Center of Pressure trajectories, in order to achieve portability and convenience without sacrificing accuracy. Methods We measure the actual Anterior/Posterior and Medial/Lateral Center of Pressure trajectories of ten healthy young subjects using a force platform, and compare them with estimated measurements derived from accelerometer signals collected from three body locations (upper trunk, waist, and lower thigh) using three machine learning algorithms (Neural Network, Genetic Algorithm, and Adaptive Network-based Fuzzy Inference System). Error ratios and correlation coefficients corresponding to body locations were compared via one-way repeated-measures ANOVA. The ratios and coefficients corresponding to the three algorithms were also compared using the same approach. Findings Estimated Anterior/Posterior trajectories indicated that measurements collected from the waist provided the lowest margins of error (8.1–8.4% v. 12.1–13.4%, P ≤ .001) and the highest correlation (.95 v. .82–.86, P ≤ .032). Estimated Medial/Lateral trajectories indicated that measurements collected from both the waist and thigh, as compared to the upper trunk, provided lower margins of error (7.0–7.3% v. 8.5–10.8%). In general, the waist is the better accelerometer attachment location. Interpretation The results of our study corroborate our deduction that the high correlation between Center of Pressure and body's Center of Mass provides the rationale to place the single accelerometer close to the waist for Center of Pressure estimations. This study also supports the feasibility of using one single accelerometer programmed with algorithms for similar clinical applications.
Liver Transplant Survival Index for Patients with Model for End-Stage Liver Disease Score ≥ 35: Modeling Risk and Adjusting Expectations in the Share 35 Era

Background The Share 35 policy for liver allocation prioritizes patients with Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores ≥ 35 for regional sharing of liver allografts. To better assess donor-recipient interactions and inform expectations, this study identified factors affecting graft survival independent of MELD score and derived a risk index for transplantation in the MELD ≥ 35 population. Study Design The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) STAR database was evaluated for deceased donor liver transplants with recipients' MELD ≥ 35, between January 2006 and June 2016. Data were randomly split into test and validate cohorts. Four individual models of graft survival spanning 90 days to 5 years were evaluated with univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards analyses against donor- and recipient-specific characteristics. Significant factors were compiled to generate the Liver Transplant Survival Index (LTSI-35), and survival analyses were performed. Results Five risk groups (very low, low, moderate, high, and severe) were identified, with 1-year graft survival rates of 90.8% ± 0.2%, 89.3% ± 0.3%, 85.0% ± 0.3%, 79.8% ± 0.3%, and 70.3% ± 0.4% (p Conclusions The LTSI-35 identifies risk factors for graft loss in a high-MELD population which, when combined, may portend worse outcomes. The LTSI-35 may be used to influence donor selection, organ allocation, and to inform expectations for allograft survival.
Analysis of a coprolite from Conejo Shelter, Texas: Potential ritualistic viperous snake consumption

Abstract This paper presents an analysis of the floral and faunal remains of a single human coprolite recovered from Conejo Shelter, Texas (41VV162). The unique contents of this specimen warrant full description. Floral macrobotanical analysis revealed a high density of Agave lechuguilla and Dasylirion spp. fibers. Calcium oxalate crystals confirm the ingestion of Opuntia. Palynological analysis found evidence for a variety of plants with known economic and medicinal uses, with pollen from the Liliaceae (new: Asparagales) family predominating. Zooarchaeological analysis found the remains of a small rodent, evidently eaten whole, with no indication of preparation or cooking. Notably, the bones, scales and a fang of a snake in the Viperidae family were also recovered from the coprolite, which is the first direct archaeological evidence of venomous snake consumption known to the researchers. With the exception of the Viperidae remains, the coprolite evidence is consistent with previous research at Conejo Shelter and the Lower Pecos region. Recently assayed radiocarbon samples from this coprolite and a second, unprocessed coprolite from the same archaeological provenience produced a date range of 1460–1528 cal BP. Future analyses of coprolites from this lens and the surrounding contexts will further our current understanding of this unique gastrological event and better situate it in the context of diet patterns and paleoenvironmental adaptions in the Lower Pecos.
Assessing protein dynamics on low complexity single-strand DNA curtains

Single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) is a critical intermediate in all DNA transactions. As ssDNA is more flexible than double-stranded (ds)DNA, interactions with ssDNA-binding proteins (SSBs) may significantly compact or elongate the ssDNA molecule. Here, we develop and characterize low-complexity ssDNA curtains, a high-throughput single-molecule assay to simultaneously monitor protein binding and correlated ssDNA length changes on supported lipid bilayers. Low-complexity ssDNA is generated via rolling circle replication of short synthetic oligonucleotides, permitting control over the sequence composition and secondary structure- forming propensity. One end of the ssDNA is functionalized with a biotin, while the second is fluorescently labeled to track the overall DNA length. Arrays of ssDNA molecules are organized at microfabricated barriers for high-throughput single-molecule imaging. Using this assay, we demonstrate that E. coli SSB drastically and reversibly compacts ssDNA templates upon changes in NaCl concentration. We also examine the interactions between a phosphomimetic RPA and ssDNA. Our results indicate that RPA- ssDNA interactions are not significantly altered by these modifications. We anticipate low-complexity ssDNA curtains will be broadly useful for single-molecule studies of ssDNA-binding proteins involved in DNA replication, transcription and repair.
Plan-View Operando Video Microscopy of Li Metal Anodes: Identifying the Coupled Relationships among Nucleation, Morphology, and Reversibility

Improving the reversibility of lithium (Li) metal anodes is critical to enable next-generation batteries. However, a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence the nucleation and dyn...
Identifying place meanings ascribed to the Baekdu-Daegan trail in South Korea

Using photo-based interviews with hikers who had completed hiking the Baekdu-Daegan (BD) trail in South Korea, this study investigated their place meanings ascribed to the trail and how mountain la...
ACL LENGTH IN PEDIATRIC POPULATIONS: AN MRI RETROSPECTIVE STUDY:

Background:Young athletes have the highest rates of primary and recurrent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, and recent research has identified graft diameter as a predictor of graft failure. ...
Role of the Blend Ratio in Polymer:Fullerene Phototransistors

Because of their ability to combine detection and processing into a single element, phototransistors have the potential to be a disruptive optical-detection technology. Unfortunately, however, at p...
FlipIt Game Model-Based Defense Strategy Against Cyberattacks on SCADA Systems Considering Insider Assistance

The industrial internet of things (IIoT) is emerging as a global trend to dramatically enhance the intelligence and efficiency of the industries in recent years. With the emphasis on data communication by IIoT, cyber vulnerabilities are introduced at the same time. As a key subsystem of the industrial automation systems, the supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system is becoming one of the primary targets for cyberattacks in the IIoT paradigm. In this paper, the semi-Markov process (SMP) is employed to model and evaluate the cyberattacks against the SCADA systems considering the insider assistance. Based on the SMP model, the probability distribution of the time-to-compromise the system of the attacks is derived with the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS). Then, a FlipIt game model is developed to investigate the defense and attack strategies of the defender and attacker, and analyze the impacts of the insider assistance. Case studies were carried out to verify the proposed model. The results of the case studies show that the insider assistance will improve the payoff of the attacker and increase the defense action frequency of the system defender. With a high enough defense action frequency, the defender can force the attacker to drop out and eliminate the attack actions.
Medicinal Plants in COVID-19: Potential and Limitations

Currently, the search to identify treatments and vaccines for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) are ongoing. Desperation within the community, especially among the middle-and low-income groups acutely affected by the economic impact of forced lockdowns, has driven increased interest in exploring alternative choices of medicinal plant-based therapeutics. This is evident with the rise in unsubstantiated efficacy claims of these interventions circulating on social media. Based on enquiries received, our team of researchers was given the chance to produce evidence summaries evaluating the potential of complementary interventions in COVID-19 management. Here, we present and discuss the findings of four selected medicinal plants (Nigella sativa, Vernonia amygdalina, Azadirachta indica, Eurycoma longifolia), with reported antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects that might be interesting for further investigation. Our findings showed that only A. indica reported positive antiviral evidence specific to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) based on preliminary in silico data while all four medicinal plants demonstrated differential anti-inflammatory or immunomodulatory effects. The definitive roles of these medicinal plants in cytokine storms and post-infection complications remains to be further investigated. Quality control and standardisation of medicinal plant-based products also needs to be emphasized. However, given the unprecedented challenges faced, ethnopharmacological research should be given a fair amount of consideration for contribution in this pandemic.
The Tubulin Inhibitor VERU-111 in Combination With Vemurafenib Provides an Effective Treatment of Vemurafenib-Resistant A375 Melanoma.

Melanoma is one of the deadliest skin cancers having a five-year survival rate around 15-20%. An overactivated MAPK/AKT pathway is well-established in BRAF mutant melanoma. Vemurafenib (Vem) was the first FDA-approved BRAF inhibitor and gained great clinical success in treating late-stage melanoma. However, most patients develop acquired resistance to Vem within 6-9 months. Therefore, developing a new treatment strategy to overcome Vem-resistance is highly significant. Our previous study reported that the combination of a tubulin inhibitor ABI-274 with Vem showed a significant synergistic effect to sensitize Vem-resistant melanoma both in vitro and in vivo. In the present study, we unveiled that VERU-111, an orally bioavailable inhibitor of α and β tubulin that is under clinical development, is highly potent against Vem-resistant melanoma cells. The combination of Vem and VERU-111 resulted in a dramatically enhanced inhibitory effect on cancer cells in vitro and Vem-resistant melanoma tumor growth in vivo compared with single-agent treatment. Further molecular signaling analyses demonstrated that in addition to ERK/AKT pathway, Skp2 E3 ligase also plays a critical role in Vem-resistant mechanisms. Knockout of Skp2 diminished oncogene AKT expression and contributed to the synergistic inhibitory effect of Vem and VERU-111. Our results indicate a treatment combination of VERU-111 and Vem holds a great promise to overcome Vem-resistance for melanoma patients harboring BRAF (V600E) mutation.
Bankatlantic Bancorp Loan Sours: Provisioning for Loan Losses

This case describes how a smaller retail bank provisioned for loan losses in the period leading up to the recent financial crisis. The bank made a single loan based on an unsubstantiated appraisal that was so large that the quarterly financial statements clearly show how the loan moves to nonperforming status in one quarter, then is partially written off in the subsequent quarter. Despite the large increase in nonperforming loans, the bank does not materially increase the allowance for loan losses. As such, it provides an opportunity to analyze the riskiness of loan portfolios and the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses, and to discuss the potential effects (and controversy) of the new accounting update, which governs how retail banks account for loan loss allowance. Excerpt UVA-C-2392 Aug. 14, 2018 BankAtlantic Bancorp Loan Sours: Provisioning for Loan Losses It was mid-November of 2006 and Nathaniel Harper was just settling into his new job as a financial analyst in a small southeastern investment firm. The St. Louis Cardinals had just won the World Series, and the five-foot-eight-inch shortstop David Eckstein had won the award for Most Valuable Player. Eckstein was known to be pesky: he never gave up, even when facing the league's best pitchers. Harper figured that he needed a bit of peskiness to prove he was great at this job. His first assignment was to cover the local banking sector. When Harper received the task, he recalled his retired grandma, who lived in a planned community in Florida, raving about the services offered by her bank, BankAtlantic Bancorp (BankAtlantic). Trying to figure out what questions he needed to answer to make an informed investment decision, Harper shuffled through his notes from school until he found some relevant points on retail and commercial banks. Main purpose of bank is to play match maker between those with excess capital and those with capital needs . . .
Lithium and cobalt recovery for lithium-ion battery recycle using an improved oxalate process with hydrogen peroxide

Abstract Lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) is the first and most commercially successful form of layered transition metal oxide cathode used in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Recycling LiCoO2 cathodes is critical for stabilizing the Li and Co economy. In this work, a kinetic investigation of a closed-loop oxalate-based process for recovery and separation of Li and Co from LiCoO2 has been developed. Metal extraction from LiCoO2 is a non-catalytic solid-liquid reaction with both solid and aqueous products. To understand the kinetics and identify the rate-limiting mechanism, a combined shrinking core model (cSCM) was used for LiCoO2 digestions. LiCoO2 in the presence of aqueous oxalic acid (H2C2O4) at the optimum concentration of 0.46 M and 100 °C results in efficient extraction and separation of Li and Co. Diffusion of H2C2O4 into LiCoO2 occurs through a product layer of cobalt oxalate dihydrate (CoC2O4·2H2O) that forms on the surface and this process was identified as rate-limiting. The CoC2O4·2H2O was precipitated in a micro-rod morphology when 0.46 M hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was added along with 0.23 M H2C2O4, and the reaction was carried out at a temperature of 55–75 °C. In this case, the chemical reaction at the LiCoO2 surface was identified as the rate-limiting step. Addition of H2O2 resulted in a 33% reduction in the overall activation energy, a 50% reduction in energy consumption, and a 13% reduction in the cost of reagents. This work signifies the importance of a cost-effective, environmentally-friendly, and energy-efficient process for recovering critical metals such as Li and Co from spent LIB cathodes.
Chemical modification of papain. I. Reaction with the chloromethyl ketones of phenylalanine and lysine and with phenylmethyl-sulfonyl fluoride.

Abstract Reaction of papain with the chloromethyl ketones of tosyl- l -phenylalanine and tosyl- l -lysine is rapid and results in a complete loss of activity. The chloromethyl ketones react specifically with the sole sulfhydryl group (on cysteine residue No. 25) of papain as shown by sulfhydryl group analysis, amino acid analysis, spectrophotometric data, and failure to react with mercuripapain. The limiting second-order reaction rate constant for reaction of α-N-tosyl- l -phenylalanine chloromethyl ketone with papain was found to be 200 m −1 sec−1 at 0 ° and to be dependent upon a single prototropic group of pK 8.90. The rate of the reaction increases with increasing pH, an indication that the reactive species is the thiol anion. Phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride inhibits papain rapidly at pH 7 and 0 °. The inactive enzyme can be fully reactivated by treatment with dithiothreitol. Attempts to prepare hydroxypapain after reaction with phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride have not been successful.
Standardized test outcomes of urban students participating in standards and project based science curricula

Considerable effort has been made over the past decade to address the needs of learners in large urban districts through scaleable reform initiatives. We examine the effects of a multifaceted scaling reform which focuses on supporting standards based science teaching in urban middle schools. The effort was one component of systemic reform efforts in Detroit Public Schools. Two cohorts of students that participated in reform curricula are compared with the remainder of the district population, using results from the high-stakes state standardized test in science. Both the initial and scaled up cohorts show substantive increases in science content understanding and process skills over their peers, and significantly higher "pass rates" on the statewide assessment up to a year and a half after exposure, with little fall off in achievement gains with increased scale. Examination of results by gender reveals that the curriculum reform effort succeeds in reducing the "gender gap" in achievement experienced by urban African-American boys. These findings are an encouraging example of how standards-based urban systemic reform can successfully impact student achievement as measured by statewide standardized instruments.
Heteromultimerization of G-Protein-Gated Inwardly Rectifying K+ Channel Proteins GIRK1 and GIRK2 and Their Altered Expression in weaver Brain

The weaver (wv) gene (GIRK2) is a member of the G-protein-gated inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK) channel family, known effectors in the signal transduction pathway of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine, dopamine, opioid peptides, and substance P in modulation of neurotransmitter release and neuronal excitability. GIRK2 immunoreactivity is found in but not limited to brain regions known to be affected in wv mice, such as the cerebellar granule cells and dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. It is also observed in the ventral tegmental area, hippocampus, cerebral cortex, and thalamus. GIRK2 and GIRK1, a related family member, have overlapping yet distinct distributions in rat and mouse brains. In regions where both channel proteins are expressed, such as the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum, they can be co-immunoprecipitated, indicating that they interact to form heteromeric channels in vivo. In the brain of the wv mouse, GIRK2 expression is decreased dramatically. In regions where GIRK1 and GIRK2 distributions overlap, both GIRK1 and GIRK2 expressions are severely disrupted, probably because of their co-assembly. The expression patterns of these GIRK channel subunits provide a basis for consideration of the machinery for neuronal signaling as well as the differential effects of the wv mutation in various neurons.
A variant binding sequence for transcription factor EBP-80 confers increased promoter activity on a retroviral long terminal repeat.

The cloned long terminal repeats (LTRs) of mouse intracisternal A-particle (IAP) proviral elements differ in their promoter activity. In this study, the LTR from a recently transposed IAP element (rc-mos) is shown to be a more effective promoter both in vivo and in vitro than the LTR from a randomly cloned genomic element (MIA14). These LTRs differ in nucleotide sequence in certain previously defined protein-binding domains. In particular, the MIA14 LTR contains two domains, designated Enh1 and Enh2, with sequence homology to the SV40 enhancer core motif, while in rc-mos the Enh2 position is occupied by a variant sequence which lacks core homology. EBP-80 is a general enhancer core-binding protein originally isolated by virtue of its affinity for the MIA14 Enh2 sequence (Falzon, M., and Kuff, E.L. (1989) J. Biol. Chem. 264, 21915-21922). We now find by quantitative binding studies, binding competition, and UV cross-linking that EBP-80 from both human and mouse cells binds to the "Enh2" motif of rc-mos more strongly than to the Enh2 of MIA14. In vitro transcription from both LTRs is strongly enhanced by addition of EBP-80 showing that binding is related to function. The rc-mos LTR remains the more effective promoter in the presence of added EBP-80. Reciprocal substitution of the Enh2 domains in the two LTRs by site-directed mutagenesis shows that the rc-mos variant confers a 3-fold increment in in vivo promotor activity. The rc-mos motif or a closely related sequence is found in the cloned LTRs of many expressed and/or recently transposed IAP elements. EBP-80 is identified as a cellular transcription factor whose heightened levels in certain mouse cells might result in preferential expression of IAP elements containing this sequence motif.
Biomedical applications of 7Li NMR.

The biomedical applications of 7Li MRS and MRI have been progressing slowly. The interest derives primarily from the clinical use of Li to treat bipolar disorder. One area of concern is the nature of ionic transport and binding, so as to elucidate the mechanism(s) of therapeutic action and toxicity. Another is the development of a non-invasive, in vivo analytical tool to measure brain Li concentration and environment in humans, both as an adjunct to treatment and as a mechanistic probe. Here we review the most recent progress toward these goals. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Total body water estimated by measuring total-body electrical conductivity

A second-generation total-body electrical conductivity (TOBEC) instrument for adults (HA-2) was evaluated against isotope dilution of /sup 2/H and /sup 18/O for its ability to estimate total body water (TBW) in 20 healthy adults. The highest correlation coefficient (0.997) and the lowest standard error of the estimate (0.68 kg) were obtained using the first (FC0) and third (FC2) Fourier coefficients of the transformed TOBEC signals and the variables height (m) times average lean circumference (m) and age (y) in the prediction equation of TBW as follows: TBW (H218O) in kg = 10.8 + (0.0724.FC0) - (0.221.FC2) + (0.0398.age) + (9.2.height.average lean circumference) where average lean circumference is the average of the lean chest, abdomen, and thigh circumferences. The TOBEC instrument for adults provides a suitable alternative for the estimation of TBW.
M-Theory and Duality

Up to now, none of the methods discussed in this book have provided us with deep insights into nonperturbative string theory and its true vacuum. There are still gaps in our understanding of the string perturbation theory because of the problems associated with supermoduli. Furthermore, string perturbation theory cannot yield the true vacuum of string theory. Conformal field theories, although they give us a powerful tool to classify millions of possible vacua for string theory, are still defined perturbatively and are unable to probe the nonperturbative region. String field theory, although it is defined independently of perturbation theory, is currently too difficult to solve for the nonperturbative region.
A Book Discussion of 'Fighting Neoslavery in the 20th Century'

"Fighting Neoslavery in the Twentieth Century: The Forgotten Legacy of the NAACP" was the last book written by Dr. Ronald Walters. In the book, Dr. Walters presents a body of evidence and anecdotes to substantiate his hypothesis that chattel slavery for African Americans did not end with the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation and the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. In their reviews of the book, the panelists will discuss the contributions the book makes to the body of knowledge, the part(s) of the book that resonated with them and additional research needed on this topic.
Hail Growth Processes in an Alberta Hailstorm

A series of observations inside an Alberta hailstorm was made with the T-28 armored research aircraft during the summer 1985, as part of the Alberta Hail Project. An analysis of some of the characteristics of the hail size distributions in relation to other T-28 measurements showed many features similar to past T-28 observations. Most of the hail observed was falling through the -17°C penetration level, even in the updrafts. A preliminary assessment of the hail growth mechanisms in this storm shows that most of the hailstones were in a dry growth regime at the penetration level, but likely in wet growth lower down in the storm. Recirculation of hydrometeors probably played a significant role in the hail development.
Habermas and Green Political Thought: Two Roads Converging

This article focuses on the relationship between Critical Theory and ecological ethics. It defines this perspective and provides a description of its application to environmental ethics. Objections to the use of Critical Theory in environmental ethics and an overview of an alternative ecocentric approach developed by Robyn Eckersley follow. The third section responds to this critique, and argues that this alternative has profound theoretical problems. Specifically, it is based on a one-sided and antiquated notion of ecology, misrepresents the intellectual foundations of Critical Theory, and commits the naturalistic fallacy. It also encounters substantial practical concerns regarding its political acceptance, efficacy, and implementation into democratic political practices. Accordingly, there is little compelling intellectual force or empirical evidence to warrant its acceptance. The article concludes with an overview of the current efforts that are being made to integrate Critical Theory into environmenta...
Factors affecting compliance with maintenance electroconvulsive therapy: A preliminary study

Maintenance electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been shown to be an effective treatment modality in preventing relapse in major depression following acute treatment. Nevertheless, clinical experience suggests that are obstacles to pursuing this form of long-term treatment. A retrospective chart review was conducted on 17 patients recommended for maintenance ECT following inpatient ECT for major depression over a 2-year period. Eleven (64.7%) accepted the recommendation and six (35.3%) refused. The two groups did not differ with respect to age, race, gender or number of medical codiagnoses. Patients who agreed to undergo maintenance ECT tended to live at home while all but one who refused lived in institutional settings (p < 0.01). The type of social support available approached statistical significance (p < 0.12), as did MMSE score (p < 0.11). Patients with family support or MMSE scores lower than 27 tended to accept outpatient ECT (relative risk 7.00, 95% CI (0.69, 70.78)). These findings suggest that patients living in the community and with significant family involvement are more likely to comply with outpatient ECT than those living in institutions and supported by professional personnel irrespective of cognitive status or other clinical or demographic factors.
Histone H3 Phosphorylation in Human Monocytes and during HL-60 Cell Differentiation☆

Phosphorylation of the nucleosome core histone H3 (H3) on Ser-10 is thought to be a prerequisite for chromatin condensation at mitosis. Although during interphase, cell differentiation, or mitogenic activation of quiescent cells, changes in chromatin structure that involve local chromatin condensation/decondensation also occur, little is known about H3 phosphorylation during these transitions. Using the recently developed sensitive marker to monitor H3 phosphorylation, namely, the mAb that recognizes the phosphorylated epitope of H3 (anti-H3-P mAb), the status of H3 phosphorylation was assayed in individual human lymphocytes after their mitogenic stimulation (G0 to G1 transition) and in human leukemic HL-60 cells induced to differentiate by all-trans-retinoic acid (RA), 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (vit D3), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), or phorbol myristate acetate (PMA). Multiparameter flow cytometry was used to correlate H3 phosphorylation with cell cycle position. The specificity of the anti-H3-P mAb was confirmed by the loss of its binding following cell treatment with alkaline phosphatase. The presence of phosphorylated H3 was detected during interphase in HL-60 cells and in normal lymphocytes at a level severalfold lower than during mitosis. No significant changes in H3 phosphorylation were observed during lymphocyte stimulation. Unexpectedly, the level of H3 phosphorylation was over fourfold higher in monocytes than in lymphocytes or granulocytes from peripheral blood. The punctate pattern of labeling with anti-H3-P mAb in monocyte nuclei suggests that H3 is phosphorylated in small clusters of adjacent nucleosomes. Differentiation of HL-60 cells was accompanied by a rise in H3 phosphorylation, which was higher after induction by RA, vit D3, and PMA (approx. threefold) than after DMSO (approximately 20%). The data indicate that in addition to being a critical event during chromatin condensation at mitosis, H3 phosphorylation plays a role during chromatin changes accompanying differentiation of HL-60 cells, in particular, along the monocytic lineage. The high level of H3 phosphorylation in monocytes may serve as a marker of these cells and is being explored as a possible diagnostic and prognostic tool in monocytic leukemias.
Horizontal and Vertical Structures of the Northward-Propagating Intraseasonal Oscillation in the South Asian Monsoon Region Simulated by an Intermediate Model*

Abstract The structures and mechanism of the northward-propagating boreal summer intraseasonal oscillation (BSISO) in the southern Asian monsoon region are simulated and investigated in a three-dimensional intermediate model (3D model). The horizontal structure of the intraseasonal variability in the 3D model depicts the Kelvin–Rossby wave–type disturbance, which may or may not produce the northward-propagating disturbance in the Indian Ocean, depending on the seasonal-mean background winds. Two experiments are conducted in order to identify what characteristic of seasonal-mean background can induce the northwestward-tilted band in the Kelvin–Rossby wave, whose overall eastward movement gives the impression of the northward propagation at a given longitude. When the prescribed boreal summer mean winds are excluded in the first experiment, the phase difference between the barotropic divergence tendency and convection disappears. Consequently, the Rossby wave–type convection forms a zonally elongated band. ...
The influence of superoxide scavenging compound CTC 23 on type II collagen-induced arthritis in mice.

The anti-arthritic activity of the superoxide scavenging compound CTC 23 was tested in murine type II collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). CTC 23 demonstrated a dose-dependant prevention of the onset of CIA, with a significant reduction of disease incidence in mice receiving prophylactic administration of CTC 23 from 2.5–5 mg/kg/day. CTC 23 also delayed the development of the anti-collagen immune response, causing a significant decrease in antibody levels 14 days after immunization. CTC 23 reduced the arthritis score and number of involved limbs in mice with established CIA. The results suggest that CTC 23 acts as a disease modifying anti-arthritic compound to prevent the progression of the experimental arthritis.
Children's Injuries: Issues in Prevention and Public Policy

This introduction to a special issue describes children's injuries in statistical, historical, and social terms. The following key concepts are presented: (1) Childhood injuries are neither random, unavoidable, nor inexplicable; (2) various disciplines suggest different interventions; (3) individuals or populations may be targeted for prevention interventions; and (4) the injury issue is a complex one. Language: en
Ultrastructural morphometric abnormalities of sural nerve endoneurial microvessels in diabetes mellitus

We evaluated 433 transversely sectioned microvessels from 54 sural nerves of diabetic patients with (43) and without (11) polyneuropathy and compared the findings with those of 366 microvessels from 50 sural nerves from controls, spanning the same ages. Whereas the number of microvessels per square millimeter and lumen areas and their size distribution were not significantly different between diabetic patients and controls, striking changes of the vessel wall were found in the nerves of diabetic patients. Mural area containing reduplicated basement membranes and pericyte degeneration were significantly increased in diabetic when compared with control nerves. A very low frequency of microvessel degeneration and endothelial cell separation was also encountered but only in diabetics with polyneuropathy. The microvessel changes we have found in nerve largely confirm and strengthen our previous findings. This study provides additional strong support for the idea that the mural changes of endoneurial microvessels do not relate to aging but do relate to diabetes mellitus. The structural alterations of endoneurial microvessel mirror changes seen in diabetic retinopathy and are sufficiently severe that they may accompany and account for functional alterations of the blood-nerve barrier and endoneurial microenvironment. It remains to be shown whether and how these changes relate to the development of polyneuropathy.
On the arresting efficiency of slip-on buckle arrestors for offshore pipelines

Abstract Slip-on buckle arrestors are tight-fitting rings placed over the pipe at intervals of several hundred meters. They locally increase the pipe resistance to collapse by providing additional circumferential rigidity, and thus impede downstream propagation of collapse. This type of arrestor offers important advantages over other designs as it does not require welding. Alternatively, when split in two and by the addition of flanges, it can be clamped onto a continuous pipe. This is an essential characteristic for lines installed by the reeling method. It has long been known that such devices often cannot reach higher levels of arresting efficiency. The somewhat deficient performance is due to the fact that a propagating buckle can penetrate such devices via a folded-up U-mode at pressures that are lower than the collapse pressure of the pipe. Previous work on the subject from the 1970s dealt with relatively thin-walled pipes used in shallow waters. The subject has recently been revisited and bounds for this deficiency in performance have been established. The deficiency depends on the pipe D/t and on the steel grade. This paper presents the results of a more detailed study of such arrestors for pipes with lower D/t values (18–35) suitable for moderately deep and deep waters. The arresting efficiency has been studied parametrically through experiments and full scale numerical simulations. The results have also shown the previously developed efficiency bounds to be viable. A new empirical design formula has been developed. Used in conjunction with the efficiency bounds, it provides a reliable method for an expanded use of slip-on type buckle arrestors in many deepwater applications.
Solvent-induced crystallization of aromatic polyimide

Abstract N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (NMP) solvent was found to induce crystallization of chemically imidized polyimide (LARC-TPI) from the amorphous state at elevated temperatures. Multiple melting endotherms of TPI were revealed by differential scanning calorimetry (d.s.c.) thermograms after treatment with NMP. Both the quantity of solvent and the treating time affect the crystallinity.
Pulsed 532 nm laser wirestripping: Removal of dye-doped polyurethane insulation

Removal of rhodamine 6G doped polyurethane insulation coated onto 50 μm diameter wire is shown to proceed efficiently and cleanly by irradiation with 532 nm Q-switched pulses from a Nd:YAG laser. The stripping action produced by this method is similar in quality to excimer laser wirestripping. Several experimental parameters were explored including fluence, pulse duration, dye concentration, and the number of incident pulses. Acceptable stripping conditions were obtained for a 3–5 s exposure at 10 Hz, using a dye concentration of 10% by weight, and 12 n pulses at 650 mJ/cm2. Nearly 0.5 μm/pulse is removed at this fluence, which exceeds the threshold fluence of ≈600 mJ/cm2 by only 50 mJ/cm2. The measured 532 nm absorption coefficient of the 10% dye-doped polyurethane was ≈4×104 cm−1. Lower fluences and/or dye concentrations produced inadequate stripping, while shorter duration pulses caused unacceptable melting of the thin gold layer which covered the copper core of the wire. Pulse-by-pulse photographs of the stripping action clearly show melting of the dye/polymer insulation, and thermal “rollback” of the insulation near the stripped end. Regardless, excellent edge definition is obtained by this method.
Staying on Target with Continuous Dialysis

“It was through the evolution of this filtration-reabsorption system that the kidney came to be almost entirely responsible for the composition of the internal environment of the body, manufacturing it, as we have said, in reverse, by saving some things from the glomerular filtrate and rejecting
Thermophilic glucoamylase from Talaromyces flavus

The heat-resistant mold, Talaromyces flavus, was found to produce a thermophilic glucoamylase that exhibited the highest activity at 50°C and in the pH range of 4.0-4.8. The K m and V max values of the crude enzyme for amylopectin were 0.21 % and 16.7 mg glucose l −1 min −1 , respectively. The molecular weight of the enzyme as estimated by the gel filtration method was 42 kDa
Implantación de un stent en la arteria carótida en pacientes de riesgo elevado: análisis de la mortalidad a medio plazo

Las intervenciones de la arteria carotida tienen como objetivo la prevencion de ictus isquemicos. La viabilidad tecnica de la implantacion de un stent de la arteria carotida (SAC) ha quedado suficientemente demostrada. Sin embargo, sus resultados inmediatos siguen siendo controvertidos. A pesar de esto, en muchas unidades de cirugia vascular se ha adoptado esta tecnica como alternativa a la endarterectomia carotidea para pacientes de riesgo elevado. No obstante, en dichos pacientes estan menos establecidos los beneficios protectores a largo plazo. Se analizaron los resultados a medio plazo tras SAC para pacientes de riesgo elevado incluidos en el protocolo de nuestro hospital, a fin de determinar las tasas de mortalidad especifica y por cualquier causa (a los 30 dias). Evaluamos retrospectivamente un registro prospectivo de implantacion de stent en la arteria carotida desde octubre de 2003 a febrero de 2006. Se registraron los datos demograficos, indicacion de riesgo elevado, presencia de sintomas carotideos, antecedentes de cancer, eficacia periprocedimiento, complicaciones, al igual que el seguimiento incluida la tasa de reingresos asi como las causas especificas de la muerte. Se sometieron a SAC 50 pacientes con estenosis carotidea critica (estenosis media del 90%). Esta cohorte de pacientes cumplia los criterios de riesgo elevado debido a razones fisiologicas en 26 pacientes y a factores anatomicos en 22. Dos pacientes cumplieron ambos criterios. Las indicaciones fueron: enfermedad sintomatica en 14 (30%) y asintomatica en 36 casos. La tasa de ictus, infarto de miocardio y mortalidad global a los 30 dias fue del 2%. A los 30 dias del procedimiento no se registraron ictus mayores o menores. El seguimiento medio global fue de 11-28 meses. La supervivencia libre de ictus fue del 94% para todos los pacientes. La supervivencia global al ano fue del 75% para todos los pacientes, significativamente mayor para el grupo asintomatico (88%) (p
Fine‐needle aspiration cytology of metastatic basal cell carcinoma of the skin to the lung

Metastatic basal cell carcinomas of the skin are rare. We present the cytologic features of a metastatic basal cell carcinoma to the lung diagnosed by fine-needle aspiration biopsy. Cytologic examination revealed syncytial groups of relatively small cells with hyperchromatic, oval to spindle-shaped nuclei having high nuclear to cytoplasmic ratios. Immunocytochemical studies performed on the cell block sections revealed the malignant cells to be positive for cytokeratin (AE1/3) and negative for neuroendocrine markers, [neuron specific enolase (NSE) and chromogranin (Phe-5)]. We reviewed the literature related to metastatic basal cell carcinoma of the skin and discuss risk factors and mechanisms of metastatic spread. In addition, a discussion of the other entities that can enter into the differential diagnosis is presented along with the role of ancillary studies. To the best of our knowledge, we believe this is the first case report of the fine-needle aspiration (FNA) cytology of a basal cell carcinoma metastatic to the lung. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Revenue maximization in spectrum auction for dynamic spectrum access

In this paper, we consider the revenue maximization problem in auctions for dynamic spectrum access. We assume a frequency division method of spectrum sharing with a primary spectrum owner that can divide the available spectrum into sub-bands and sell them to secondary users. We assume that a secondary user's utility function is linear in the rate it can achieve by using the spectrum. We present an incentive compatible, individual rational and revenue-maximizing mechanism that the spectrum owner can use to divide the spectrum among the strategic (selfish) secondary buyers.
A Unique Cotton Sliver Drafting System

A unique method of drafting textile fibers makes use of a discontinuously surfaced or segmental drafting roll. In segmental drafting, more complete force relaxation occurs between each maximum buildup of force, and an intermittent strand attenuation occurs. This action minimizes the mean drafting force. The technique described is an improvement over conventional drafting because it uses only two drafting zones instead of three or four to produce similar or equal quality sliver.
mTORC1 signaling under hypoxic conditions is controlled by ATM-dependent phosphorylation of HIF-1α

The mTOR complex-1 (mTORC1) coordinates cell growth and metabolism, acting as a restriction point under stress conditions such as low oxygen tension (hypoxia). Hypoxia suppresses mTORC1 signaling. However, the signals by which hypoxia suppresses mTORC1 are only partially understood, and a direct link between hypoxia-driven physiological stress and the regulation of mTORC1 signaling is unknown. Here we show that hypoxia results in ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM)-dependent phosphorylation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) on serine(696) and mediates downregulation of mTORC1 signaling. Deregulation of these pathways in pediatric solid tumor xenografts suggests a link between mTORC1 dysregulation and solid tumor development and points to an important role for hypoxic regulation of mTORC1 activity in tumor development.
Combined Heart and Liver Transplantation Can Be Safely Performed With Excellent Short- and Long-Term Results

Background Heart transplant has become the gold standard therapy for end-stage heart failure. Short- and long-term outcomes after orthotopic heart transplant have been excellent. Many patients with heart failure manifest hepatic failure as a result of a chronically elevated central venous pressure. Concomitant hepatic failure has been a contraindication to heart transplant in most centers. A few select institutions are currently performing combined heart-liver transplantation to treat dual organ failure. The outcomes after dual organ transplant are largely unknown, with limited data from a few select centers. We undertook this study to analyze our large experience with combined heart-liver transplant and determine the short-term and long-term outcomes associated with this procedure. Methods We have performed 1,050 heart transplants at our center to date. Of these patients, 26 underwent combined heart and liver transplant (largest single-center experience). We reviewed demographic, perioperative, and short- and long-term outcomes after this combined procedure. Results All 26 patients underwent successful dual organ transplant, without any episodes of primary graft dysfunction. Average length of intensive care unit stay was 10 ± 5 days, and average hospital stay was 25 ± 11 days. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated excellent short-term survival (1 year, 87% ± 7%) and long-term survival (5 years, 83% ± 8%). Interestingly, only 3 patients (11%) demonstrated any evidence of rejection long-term by myocardial biopsy, suggesting that concomitant hepatic transplantation may provide immunologic protection for the cardiac allograft. Conclusions We present the largest single-center series of combined heart and liver transplant. This dual organ strategy is highly feasible, with excellent long-term survival. Concomitant liver transplant may confer immunologic protection for the cardiac allograft.
Asynchronous expression of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in splake trout embryos

Electrophoretic analysis of the developmental progression of isozymes provides a sensitive method for observing the expression of genes. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) activity profiles and isozyme patterns were examined in developing brook trout ( Salvelinus fontinalis ), lake trout ( Salvelinus namaycush ), and their viable hybrid, splake trout. In all crosses examined, the G-6-PD level of trout embryos dropped immediately upon fertilization and then steadily increased after completion of gastrulation. In the F 1 cross, brook ♀×lake ♂, the maternal isozyme pattern persisted until 1 week after completion of yolk resorption. In F 2 crosses, F 1 splake ♀×F 1 splake ♂, at hatching all embryos revealed either a brook or lake G-6-PD pattern. Thus, stable products from the oocyte (splake pattern) were no longer present, and the preferential expression of one parental gene (probably maternal) was demonstrated. In addition, the hybrid pattern was first detected 2 weeks before yolk resorption. This asynchrony in gene expression reflects incompatability between the maternal protein synthesizing machinery and the paternal genome. Perhaps it involves the recognition of more of the paternal genome than just the structural gene loci. Since the F 1 hybrid pattern was further delayed until after yolk resorption, suppression by a component in the yolk may also be involved.