cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Participation of the Calcium/Calmodulin-dependent Kinases in Hydrogen Peroxide-induced IκB Phosphorylation in Human T Lymphocytes

NF-kappaB is an important transcription factor that has a role in a variety of responses such as inflammation, oncogenesis, apoptosis, and viral replication. Oxidative stress is well known to induce the activation of NF-kappaB. Cells can be exposed to either endogenously produced oxidants or oxidants produced by surrounding cells. In addition, ischemia reperfusion and certain cancer therapies such as chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy are thought to result in oxygen radical production. Because of the important role that NF-kappaB has in multiple responses, it is critical to determine the mechanisms by which oxidative stress induces NF-kappaB activity. We report that the calmodulin antagonist W-7 and the calcium/calmodulin-dependent (CaM) kinase inhibitors KN-93 and K252a, can block oxidative stress-induced IkappaB phosphorylation in Jurkat T lymphocytes. Furthermore, KN-93 but not KN-92 can block hydrogen peroxide-induced Akt and IKK phosphorylation. In addition, we found that expression of a kinase-dead CaM-KIV construct in two cell lines inhibits IkappaB phosphorylation or degradation and that expression of CaM-KIV augments hydrogen peroxide-induced IkappaB phosphorylation and degradation. Although the CaM kinases appear to be required for this response, increases in intracellular calcium do not appear to be required. These results identify the CaM kinases as potential targets that can be used to minimize NF-kappaB activation in response to oxidative stress.
Adrenocortical Neoplasms with Myelolipomatous and Lipomatous Metaplasia: Report of 3 Cases

ABSTRACT Objective To present pathologic and radiographic features of 3 patients with adrenocortical neoplasms—2 with uncertain malignant potential and 1 adenoma with areas of myelolipomatous and lipomatous metaplasia. Methods We describe 3 patients who had adrenocortical neoplasms with foci of myelolipomatous and lipomatous metaplasia. For each patient, the clinical and pathologic data are reviewed. Results All 3 patients were women, with a mean age at presentation of 58 years. The lesion size averaged 6.8 cm (range, 3.9 to 11.0), and the mean gland weight was 128.8 g (range, 32.5 to 249). Two patients showed imaging findings compatible with adrenal myelolipoma. Pathologically, 2 of the lesions were classified as adrenocortical neoplasms of uncertain malignant potential, and 1 lesion was classified as an adrenocortical adenoma. All 3 lesions contained myelolipomatous foci throughout the neoplasm, and 2 of the tumors contained several pure lipomatous foci. Conclusion Adrenocortical neoplasms, including those associated with an uncertain malignant potential, may be associated with areas of myelolipomatous and lipomatous metaplasia. Imaging studies may result in a false diagnosis of a benign adrenal myelolipoma and potential undertreatment in such patients. (Endocr Pract. 2009;15:128-133)
An adaptive MLS surface for reconstruction with guarantees

Recent work have shown that moving least squares (MLS) surfaces can be used effectively to reconstruct surfaces from possibly noisy point cloud data. Several variants of MLS surfaces have been suggested, some of which have been analyzed theoretically for guarantees. These analyses, so far, have assumed uniform sampling density. We propose a new variant of the MLS surface that, for the first time, incorporates local feature sizes in its formulation, and we analyze it for reconstruction guarantees using a non-uniform sampling density. The proposed variant of the MLS surface has several computational advantages over existing MLS methods.
Electronic Excitation Transfer in the LH2 Complex of Rhodobacter sphaeroides

Ultrafast fluorescence upconversion measurements were carried out on the peripheral (LH2) light harvesting antenna complex of Rhodobacter sphaeroides isolated in the detergents N-octyl-β-d-glucopyranoside and lauryl dimethylamine oxide. The B800 and B850 bands were excited in separate experiments, and the B850 emission was detected in each case. We make use of the recently determined crystal structure of a purple bacterial LH2 complex to simulate our data and to calculate the exciton level structure of the B850 aggregate. The B800 to B850 excitation transfer occurs with a 650 fs time constant. The depolarization of B850 emission follows a wavelength dependent, biexponential decay with time constants 50−90 and 400−500 fs. We can reproduce the non-exponentiality of the depolarization by assuming incoherent hopping between dimeric sites with a 250 cm-1 full width at half-maximum (fwhm) Gaussian distribution of site energies (inhomogeneity). We calculate the homogeneous hopping time between dimers in B850 to ...
Prediction Performance of Correlated Error Procedures for Spatial Counts

Few guidelines exist for the application of geostatistical methods to spatial counts and the prediction to unsampled areas is an important aspect of experimental field research. The prediction performances of kriging and a correlated errors Poisson model are compared through simulation. Counts with a known spatial covariance structure are generated in an investigation involving several factors: area size, overall mean, range of correlation, spatial covariance function, and the presence of trend. The correlated errors Poisson model generally gives superior prediction performance when an exponential covariance structure is used.
Do Venture Capitalists Have a Continuation Bias

Venture capitalists (VCs) follow elaborate procedures to identify the top candidates, out of countless aspiring start-ups, for financing and other types of investor support. Purportedly, VCs also c...
The Measles Virus Hemagglutinin Stalk: Structures and Functions of the Central Fusion Activation and Membrane-Proximal Segments

ABSTRACT The measles virus (MeV) membrane fusion apparatus consists of a fusion protein trimer and an attachment protein tetramer. To trigger membrane fusion, the heads of the MeV attachment protein, hemagglutinin (H), bind cellular receptors while the 96-residue-long H stalk transmits the triggering signal. Structural and functional studies of the triggering mechanism of other paramyxoviruses suggest that receptor binding to their hemagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN) results in signal transmission through the central segments of their stalks. To gain insight into H-stalk structure and function, we individually replaced its residues with cysteine. We then assessed how stable the mutant proteins are, how efficiently they can be cross-linked by disulfide bonds, whether cross-linking results in loss of function, and, in this case, whether disulfide bond reduction restores function. While many residues in the central segment of the stalk and in the spacer segment above it can be efficiently cross-linked by engineered disulfide bonds, we report here that residues 59 to 79 cannot, suggesting that the 20 membrane-proximal residues are not engaged in a tetrameric structure. Rescue-of-function studies by disulfide bond reduction resulted in the redefinition and extension of the central fusion-activation segment as covering residues 84 to 117. In particular, we identified four residues located between positions 92 and 99, the function of which cannot be restored by disulfide bond reduction after cysteine mutagenesis. These mutant H proteins reached the cell surface as complex oligomers but could not trigger membrane fusion. We discuss these observations in the context of the stalk exposure model of membrane fusion triggering by paramyxoviruses. IMPORTANCE Measles virus, while being targeted for eradication, still causes significant morbidity and mortality. Here, we seek to understand how it enters cells by membrane fusion. Two viral integral membrane glycoproteins (hemagglutinin tetramers and fusion protein trimers) mediate the concerted receptor recognition and membrane fusion processes. Since previous studies have suggested that the hemagglutinin stalk transmits the triggering signal to the fusion protein trimer, we completed an analysis of its structure and function by systematic Cys mutagenesis. We report that while certain residues of the central stalk segment confer specificity to the interaction with the fusion protein trimer, others are necessary to allow folding of the H-oligomer in a standard conformation conducive to fusion triggering, and still other residues sustain the conformational change that transmits the fusion-triggering signal.
Will medical solutions to sexual problems make sexological care and science obsolete

Developments in the field of sexology indicate a trend toward the medicalization of sexual issues which is likely to continue over the next decades. With the introduction of new pharmacological treatments, the resulting shift from the biopsychosocial model to the disease model will become increasingly accepted and solidified over the next decade. Some of this shift may be beneficial in that the healthcare needs of the patient/client may at times be better served through this route. However, concern arises when such shifts are likely to limit the meaningful choices presented to the patient and to dampen support for basic psycho-behavioral and neurophysiological sexological investigation. Such developments challenge sexologists and sex therapists to define their treatment outcomes more clearly and, relying on stronger evidence-based studies, define the critical role of the therapist in achieving these outcomes.
SU‐E‐J‐47: Deformable Image Registration in the Presence of Excised Tissue: A Modified Demons Algorithm for Cone‐Beam CT‐Guided Surgery

Purpose: Intraoperative cone‐beam CT(CBCT) offers potentially improved surgical guidance and patient safety. Fast, accurate deformable registration is important to incorporating preoperative images and planning within up‐to‐date CBCT while accounting for anatomical changes. Conventional registration typically fails to account for tissue excised between scans and simply “moves” voxels within the image. We propose a novel method that introduces an extra spatial dimension as a “sink” for voxels of excised tissue. Methods: The Demons algorithm was modified to include a fourth dimension (for 3D registration) into which voxels are “ejected” if above an intensity difference threshold between CBCT scans. The method was tested using a cadaveric head undergoing deformation and excision typical of sinus and skull base surgery guided by C‐arm CBCT. Performance was quantified in comparison to conventional Demons in terms of freedom from erroneous deformation and accuracy of voxels “ejected” versus actually excised tissue. Results: Conventional Demons registration caused erroneous warping and geometric error in the presence of tissue excision. The modified Demons algorithm overcame these difficulties and was observed to accurately eject voxels from the image in the region of excision. In clival drillouts, mean (max) error from erroneous deformation was reduced from 0.7 (5.1) mm to 0.4 (2.1) mm for the proposed approach, and the fraction of tissue properly removed from the excision volume improved from 31% to 97%.Conclusion: Adding extra dimensionality to the registration problem allows proper handling of excised tissue, a critical consideration in surgical guidance. The proposed method maintained accurate registration of preoperative images and planning data within up‐to‐date CBCT despite tissue excisions without significant increase in computational complexity and within the familiar Demons framework. Residual errors were primarily due to partial volume artifacts causing fine structures not to meet the ejection threshold, and there was negligible spurious ejection of unexcised tissue. Research supported by the NIH and in collaboration with Siemens Healthcare.
Distinctive E-cadherin and epidermal growth factor receptor expression in metastatic and nonmetastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: predictive and prognostic correlation.

BACKGROUND. The authors investigated whether coexpression and localization of E-cadherin (E-cad) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) had predictive and/or prognostic correlations with lymph node metastasis and/or survival in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). METHODS. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) of archival tissue was performed to measure expression of EGFR and E-cad in surgical specimens of SCCHN (n = 143) that included primary tumors (PTs) with positive lymph nodes (Tu+Met) and their paired lymph node metastases (LnMet), PTs with negative lymph nodes (Tu−Met), and benign tissue biopsies as normal controls. IHC staining was quantified as a weighted index and as the ratio of membrane to cytoplasmic staining. Correlative expression between EGFR and E-cad also was examined in SCCHN cell lines by immunoblotting and immunofluorescence analyses. RESULTS. Three distinct expression patterns of EGFR and E-cad were observed. Membrane localization of E-cad was significantly lower in the Tu+Met group than in the Tu−Met group (P = .01) and was associated inversely with lymph node status (P = .009). Wilcoxon analysis of the combined markers demonstrated that expression and/or membrane localization of EGFR and E-cad were correlated with disease-free survival and overall survival in patients with SCCHN. The study of SCCHN cell lines demonstrated that cells with positive but low EGFR expression and with negative E-cad expression were relatively resistant to the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor erlotinib. CONCLUSIONS. The current study suggested that examining not only the expression but also the localization of EGFR and E-cad simultaneously may have clinical relevance in predicting lymph node metastasis, patient survival, and response to EGFR-targeted therapy in patients with SCCHN. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Cognitive, adaptive, and behavioral characteristics of Williams syndrome

Williams syndrome is a genetic disorder linked to cognitive and behavioral patterns of varying consistency; this study was conducted to clarify further the strengths and weaknesses of children with Williams syndrome. Fifteen subjects with the characteristic features of Williams syndrome were evaluated using the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale for Children, Fourth Edition; the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Interview Edition; and the Child Behavior Checklist. Cognitive skills ranged from the Moderate Range of Mental Retardation to the Low Average range, with relative strengths in nonverbal and quantitative reasoning. Adaptive skills were delayed, with strengths in communication and socialization. Behaviorally, clinically significant levels of attention problems, borderline-significant levels of social and thought problems, and significantly low levels of social contacts and structured activities were found. In contrast to the findings of many other studies of Williams syndrome, language skills and short-term memory skills were weak. Children with Williams syndrome may present a more evenly developed intellectual profile, with verbal and nonverbal skills being commensurate. In conclusion, a variety of cognitive, adaptive, and behavioral patterns have been shown to be possible in Williams syndrome; therefore, a single predictable cognitive or behavioral phenotype cannot be assumed.
Synthesis and channel properties of [Tau16]gramicidin A

Des(ethanolamine)-taurine 16 -gramicidin A ([Tau 16 ]gramicidin A) was synthesized by the solid phase method and its channel-forming behavior in planar lipid bilayers was examined. The purified monovalent anionic peptide formed channels when applied to the aqueous compartments on both sides of the bilayer, but not when applied to one side only. The single-channel conductance was measured for KCl concentrations between 0.1 and 1.0 M and was found to be higher than that of gramicidin A in each case. Single-channel lifetimes were similar to those of gramicidin A suggesting that the channels have the β 6.3 helix structure.
Embedding spectral analysis in equipment

The use of digital signal processors (DSPs) that enable continuous estimates of signal frequency components to be incorporated into a broad range of real-time systems is considered. Classical spectral estimation methods are reviewed. Real-time implementation of the methods, all of which use some form of fast Fourier transform method, on DSP chips is discussed. Some applications of these chips are examined. >
Morphology and the elastic modulus of block polymers and polyblends

The theory of the elastic moduli of composite materials in which an inversion of the phases can occur is reviewed. The morphology of the system and the packing fraction of the dispersed phase are important in determining the moduli. The applicability of the theoretical equations is illustrated for four systems of block polymers and polyblends. In three of the systems, phase inversion occurs. Agreement between theory and experiment is good, and where the morphology of the composites is known, the moduliagree with the values expected for that morphology.
Former U.S. Geological Survey Director McNutt Discusses Highlights and Challenges

Marcia McNutt, who served as director of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and science advisor to the secretary of the Department of the Interior (DOI) since November 2009, left office on 15 February 2013, a few days after the successful launch of the Landsat 8 Earth imaging satellite and shortly before potential automatic and across-the-board federal budget cuts, known as “sequestration,” were due to be implemented. McNutt said that sequestration, which currently is scheduled for 1 March, “could be devastating” for USGS.
Bilateral analysis based false positive reduction for computer-aided mass detection

We have developed a false positive (FP) reduction method based on analysis of bilateral mammograms for computerized mass detection systems. The mass candidates on each view were first detected by our unilateral computer-aided detection (CAD) system. For each detected object, a regional registration technique was used to define a region of interest (ROI) that is “symmetrical” to the object location on the contralateral mammogram. Texture features derived from the spatial gray level dependence matrices and morphological features were extracted from the ROI containing the detected object on a mammogram and its corresponding ROI on the contralateral mammogram. Bilateral features were then generated from corresponding pairs of unilateral features for each object. Two linear discriminant analysis (LDA) classifiers were trained from the unilateral and the bilateral feature spaces, respectively. Finally, the scores from the unilateral LDA classifier and the bilateral LDA asymmetry classifier were fused with a third LDA whose output score was used to distinguish true mass from FPs. A data set of 341 cases of bilateral two-view mammograms was used in this study, of which 276 cases with 552 bilateral pairs contained 110 malignant and 166 benign biopsy-proven masses and 65 cases with 130 bilateral pairs were normal. The mass data set was divided into two subsets for twofold cross-validation training and testing. The normal data set was used for estimation of FP rates. It was found that our bilateral CAD system achieved a case-based sensitivity of 70%, 80%, and 85% at average FP rates of 0.35, 0.75, and 0.95 FPs/image, respectively, on the test data sets with malignant masses. In comparison to the average FP rates for the unilateral CAD system of 0.58, 1.33, and 1.63, respectively, at the corresponding sensitivities, the FP rates were reduced by 40%, 44%, and 42% with the bilateral symmetry information. The improvement was statistically significance (p<0.05) as estimated by JAFROC analysis.
The Austin Flint Murmur and the a Wave of the Apexcardiogram in Aortic Regurgitation

Hemodynamic data from 45 patients with either aortic regurgitation (with and without the Austin Flint murmur) or aortic regurgitation and mitral stenosis were correlated with the a-wave percentage amplitude of the apexcardiogram. Changes in the a wave correlated well with corresponding changes in left heart pressures but not with variations in volume. Of 15 patients in whom the ratio of the a wave to the total excursion during systole (a/H ratio) was [See Equation in PDF file]13%, 11 had left ventricular end-diastolic pressures (LVEDP) >20 mm Hg. All patients with a/H ratios >15% had abnormal LVEDP. The converse was not true; 13 patients had elevated LVEDP with normal a/H ratios. Patients with aortic regurgitation and mitral stenosis had a/H ratios similar to those of normal subjects. The Flint murmur showed a significant correlation with left ventricular volume changes. Its presence was valuable in prediction of a large regurgitant volume and a high left ventricular stroke volume. It was also present in ...
Leukodepletion for acute lymphocytic leukemia in a three-week-old infant.

We report the smallest infant (4.5 kg) to receive leukapheresis as an immediate treatment for Infantile Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia. Leukodepletion helps prevent the risks of hyperviscosity and cerebrovascular and pulmonary leukostasis. In addition, it is a desirable precursor to chemotherapy to potentially reduce metabolic and renal complications associated with rapid cell lysis. Because of this infant's small size, she presented us with multiple concerns, including hypocalcemia from citrate anticoagulation, extracorporeal volume and fluid balance, inlet flow rates. and establishment of adequate interface. Our positive experience in performing this procedure suggests that cytapheresis is a feasible treatment even for very young infants. J. Clin. Apheresis. 16:31-32, 2001.
The characteristics of a polygalacturonase produced by Bacillus polymyxa

Abstract The bacillus polygalacturonase (BPG) produced by Bacillus polymyxa was studied and characterized. Maximal cell yield and polygalacturonase production were obtained with a mineral medium containing biotin and 3% (w/v) pectin. Growth and BPG production are greatest when the culture is aerated on a rotary shaker. Pectinesterase production was dependent upon pectin concentration up to 4% BPG production is inducible. Pectin is the best inducer, followed by pectic acid and galacturonic acid in that order. The enzyme has an absolute requirement for calcium ion. Sodium, barium, manganese, strontium, zinc, ferric, cupric, and magnesium ions were ineffective in restoring the activity of dialyzed BPG. The pH optimum of BPG is between 8.9 and 9.4, and it is most stable between pH values of 5.0 and 8.0. Rapid loss of activity occurs below pH 5.0. Its temperature optimum is 45 °C. Although two separate enzyme fractions were isolated by cellulose column chromatography, both were similar in that they hydrolyzed pectic acid more rapidly than pectin. In addition it was shown that both fractions hydrolyzed pectic acid randomly.
Linkage between energy status of perivascular cells and mineralization of the chick growth cartilage.

Abstract The objective of this investigation was to investigate the relationship between the energy status of epiphyseal chondrocytes of the chick growth cartilage and the development of mineralization. A microfluorimetric scanning technique was used to measure the reduced pyridine nucleotide content of transverse sections of freeze-trapped cartilage; these measurements were related to tissue structure by scanning electron microscopy. The results of this study show that the energy status of cells in the hypertrophic region of the growth cartilage is more complex than was previously believed. In hypertrophic cartilage, most chondrocytes are in a reduced state. However, in the early hypertrophic region, the vascular channels that penetrate the cartilage from the metaphysis exert a profound local effect on the energy metabolism of perivascular chondrocytes. Thus, around each of the channels, there exists a zone of chondrocytes about 40–60 μm wide which exhibits a low fluorescence yield. The fluorescence level suggests that these perivascular cells have a higher level of oxidative metabolism than hypertrophic chondrocytes that are a distance (greater than 150 μm) from the vascular channels. This finding, in conjunction with our earlier observation that mineralization is first seen in the perivascular region, leads us to the conclusion that mineralization is associated with cellular oxidative activity. We now reject the long-held concept that in cartilage the development of mineralization is entirely due to tissue hypoxia.
Lifestyle Modification for the Management of Obesity

Several expert panels have recommended that obese individuals attempt to lose 10% of their initial body weight through a combination of diet, physical activity, and behavior therapy (frequently referred to as lifestyle modification). This article reviews the short-and long-term results of lifestyle modification and methods to improve them. Randomized controlled trials were examined that compared different diet and activity interventions for inducing and maintaining weight loss. Studies that compared different methods of providing lifestyle modification, including on-site vs. Internet-based delivery, also were examined. A comprehensive lifestyle modification program was found to induce a loss of approximately 10% of initial weight in 16 to 26 weeks of group or individual treatment, delivered on-site. Comprehensive Internet-based programs induced a loss of approximately half this size. Patients' consumption of portion-controlled diets, including liquid meal replacements, was associated with significantly greater short-term weight loss than was the consumption of isocaloric diets comprised of conventional foods. Factors associated with long-term weight control included continued patient-practitioner contact (whether on-site or by e-mail), high levels of physical activity, and the long-term use of pharmacotherapy combined with lifestyle modification. In summary, lifestyle modification induces clinically significant weight loss that is associated with the prevention or amelioration of cardiovascular risk factors.
Two-boundary lattice paths and parking functions

We describe an involution on a set of sequences associated with lattice paths with north or east steps constrained to lie between two arbitrary boundaries. This involution yields recursions (from which determinantal formulas can be derived) for the number and area enumerator of such paths. An analogous involution can be defined for parking functions with arbitrary lower and upper bounds. From this involution, we obtained determinantal formulas for the number and sum enumerator of such parking functions. For parking functions, there is an alternate combinatorial inclusion-exclusion approach. The recursions also yield Appell relations. In certain special cases, these Appell relations can be converted into rational or algebraic generating functions.
SU‐GG‐T‐143: Comparisons of a Monte Carlo IMRT Plan Recalculation Results with the Pinnacle Treatment Planning System

Purpose: We developed a Monte Carlo based IMRT recalculation tool and determined its parameters for Varian Clinac 2100C 6 MV and 18 MV photon beams. We report our comparisons with prostate and head and neck IMRT Pinnacle treatment plans. Method and Materials: Our source model components include: a primary photon point source, an extended extra‐focal source, and contamination electrons. One unique feature of the system is that it is fluence‐based, not a segment based calculation. A modified composite fluence map for each beam is built by summing the MLC segments and modifying for the effects of leakage, and rounded leaf edges. Model parameters are automatically determined by fitting to measurements. We re‐computed two 6 MV head & neck, and three 18 MV prostate, IMRT plans created by Pinnacle. For head & neck plans, we compared the DVHs of PTV, brainstem and parotid glands, as well as the mean dose to parotid glands. For the prostate plans, the DVHs for PTV, rectum, and bladder, as well as the D50, D98, and minimum doses for PTV are compared. Results: We found that our dose calculation system is comparable with Pinnacle for prostate IMRT plans, with small differences. For the prostate tests, the D50 for the PTV agrees within 0.7% with Pinnacle. DVHs for rectum and bladder all agree closely. The model predicts more pronounced dose inhomogeneity inside PTV in head and neck cases: the average reduction in the D98 value for the primary PTV was 5.5%. Conclusion: As expected, prostate IMRT recalculations agree well with the Pinnacle results. However, differences in head and neck results may be due to improved physics in the Monte Carlo system. The results support the use of the Monte Carlo tool as a treatment planning QA tool. Conflict of Interest: Work partially supported by grant PHS CA010953.
An Unbiased Response to the Open Peer Commentarites on 'Does Consent Bias Research?'

The article is a response to the seven open peer commentaries submitted to our article "Does Consent Bias Research?" The response article discusses the following issues raised by the commentaries: (1) the definition of consent bias; (2) the magnitude of possible consent bias; (3) whether informed consent should be required for all information-based research; (4) alternative approaches to "traditional" informed consent; and (5) the value of "big data."
Gene- and cell-type-specific effects of signal transduction cascades on metal-regulated gene transcription appear to be independent of changes in the phosphorylation of metal-response-element-binding transcription factor-1.

Post-translational modification of MTF-1 (metal-response-element-binding transcription factor-1) was suggested to play a role in its metalloregulatory functions. In the present study, pulse labelling and two-dimensional electrophoresis–Western blotting were used to demonstrate that, although MTF-1 is highly modified in vivo, its phosphorylation level does not rapidly change in response to metals, nor does its overall modification pattern. Recombinant MTF-1 was found to serve as an in vitro substrate for casein kinase II, c-Jun N-terminal kinase and protein kinase C, but inhibition of these kinases in vivo did not significantly change the modification pattern of MTF-1. Northern blotting revealed that inhibitors of casein kinase II and c-Jun N-terminal kinase severely attenuate the metal-induced transcription of the native chromatin-packaged metallothionein-I and zinc transporter-1 genes, whereas protein kinase C inhibitors exerted gene- and cell-type-specific effects on the metal regulation and basal expression of these two genes. A chromatin immunoprecipitation assay was used to demonstrate that none of these inhibitors prevent the metal-dependent recruitment of MTF-1 to the MT-I promoter. In brief, results of the present study suggest that protein kinases may not alter the phosphorylation state of MTF-1 during the rapid-response phase to metals, nor do they regulate the metal-dependent formation of a stable MTF-1–chromatin complex. Instead, protein kinases may exert their interdependent effects on metal-induced gene expression by acting on cofactors that interact with MTF-1.
Endothelial cell dynamics and complexity theory.

Objective: To apply complexity theory to understanding endothelial cell function in health and disease. Data Sources and Study Selection: Published research and review articles in the English language related to complexity theory and endothelial cell biology. Data Extraction and Synthesis: The results of published studies have been used to generate a hypothesis of nonlinear dynamics in endothelial cell biology. Conclusions: The endothelium displays nonlinear complexity. I propose a model in which healthy endothelium retains a broad range of responses and is therefore highly active, whereas dysfunctional endothelium becomes locked into a narrow range of responses, approaching a single steady state and eventual quiescence. These concepts lay a foundation for understanding the pathophysiology of endothelial cell dysfunction in the multiple organ dysfunction syndrome.
race relations in the southeastern highlands of Mesoamerica

A recent ethnographic truism concerning the southeastern highlands of Mesoamerica is that the distinction between Indian and Ladino is not “racial”, but rather is “cultural”, and therefore that Indians and Ladinos are most appropriately designated as “ethnic groups” and not “races”. This paper traces the history of the development of this truism but then argues that the dichotomy between racial and cultural criteria of group de- finition is unwarranted. Furthermore, there are some advantages to charac- terizing the Indians and Ladinos as “races,” that is, if “race” is defined in a sociologicalrather than a biologicalfashion. Specif ica11y, “race” wouId help clarify the actual sociological character of the Indian and Ladino groups, including their interrelations and the process of cultural change in the region. At present, these are obscured by the use of the term “ethnic group,” which has been associated with a minimization of the importance of descent in defining group membership, a reluctance to use the term “racism” to characterize group relations, and a tendency to identify modernization with Ladinoization.
GSETT-2: An Experiment in rapid exchange and interpretation of seismic data

From April 22 through June 2, 1991, organizations from thirty-four countries participated in a test of new concepts and technologies for the rapid exchange and interpretation of data from a globally distributed seismic network. This test, the Group of Scientific Experts Second Technical Test or GSETT-2, was organized under the auspices of the United Nations Conference on Disarmament. Each participating country operated a National Data Center that collected parametric data and digital seismograms from sixty seismic stations, then forwarded these data to four Experimental International Data Centers. Each EIDC then interpreted the data to locate seismic events and distribute event bulletins to all participants.
A dinuclear iron(III) complex with a bridging urea anion: implications for the urease mechanism

A novel complex [FeIII2(μ-O){μ-OC(NH2)NH} (tpa)2](ClO4)3 [tpa = tris(2-pyridylmethyl)amine] has been synthesized and fully characterized; its formation from urea and the [FeIII2(μ-O)(tpa)2(OH)(H2O) ]3+ precursor in aqueous acetonitrile is a reversible multistep process.
Newlyweds Tell their Stories: A Narrative Method for Assessing Marital Experiences:

This article describes three coding systems used to analyze systematically joint narratives told by 344 black and white newlywed couples about the `story of their relationship', as part of a program of study of the early years of marriage. The first coding system of these accounts captures the affects mentioned in the stories; the second assesses husband-wife interactions in telling the stories; and the third identifies styles and themes characterizing both the overall story and specific substories within the narratives. A summary of results based on these coding schemes is outlined. Several narrative measures were found to be related to marital quality over time. A number of these measures help clarify ways in which black couples (n = 176) in comparison to white couples (n = 167) are alike and ways in which they are different. We discuss the role of these coding schemes for capturing `meaning-making' in story construction. In addition, we illustrate the possibility for analyzing changes in narrative memo...
Implantation and Growth of Dendritic Gold Nanostructures on Graphene Derivatives: Electrical Property Tailoring and Raman Enhancement

Interfacing electron-rich metal nanoparticles with graphene derivatives can sensitively regulate the properties of the resultant hybrid with potential applications in metal-doped graphene field-effect transistors (FETs), surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, and catalysis. Here, we show that by controlling the rate of diffusion and catalytic reduction of gold ions on graphene oxide (GO), dendritic “snowflake-shaped” gold nanostructures (SFGNs) can be templated on graphene. The structural features of the SFGNs and their interfacing mechanism with GO were characterized by microscopic analysis and Raman-scattering. We demonstrate that (a) SFGNs grow on GO-surface via diffusion limited aggregation; (b) SFGN’s morphology (dendritic to globular), size (diameter of 150−500 nm and a height of 45−55 nm), coverage density, and dispersion stability can be controlled by regulating the chemiophysical forces; (c) SFGNs enhance the Raman signal by 2.5 folds; and (d) SFGNs act as antireduction resist during GO-SFGN’s chem...
The Obama Administration and the Asia-Pacific Security Environment

The United States (US) is a ‘resident’ Pacific power and its Asia-Pacific neighbourhood is in the midst of profound strategic change. Since the end of the Vietnam War, Asia has benefitted from a unique balance of power, in which first the Soviet Union and then the People's Republic of China (PRC) were ‘balanced’ by the US-led coalition of Asian littoral powers. This geo-strategic military stability provided the opportunity for virtually all of the nations of the region to focus mainly on internal political stability and, simultaneously, on economic development. By gradually improving its military capabilities off-shore, albeit largely for strategically defensive purposes, China is beginning to ‘intrude’ into the maritime region that has been the preserve of the US and its allies for the past half-century. Analysing the strategic developments in the region and the related dynamic of power equations over the past decade, this paper argues that as long as China looms large in the security calculations of Asi...
Simulating plausible mechanisms for changing hepatic xenobiotic clearance patterns

No concrete, causal, mechanistic theory is available to explain how different hepatic zonation patterns of P450 isozyme levels and hepatotoxicity emerge following dosing with different compounds. We used the synthetic method of modeling and simulation to discover, explore, and experimentally challenge a concrete mechanism that shows how and why biomimetic zonation patterns emerge and change within agent-based analogues. We hypothesized that those mechanisms have counterparts in rats. Mobile objects map to compounds. One analogue is comprised of a linear sequence of 20 identical, quasi-autonomous functional units called sinusoidal segments (SSs). SSs detect and respond to compound-generated response signals and the local level of a gradient. Each SS adapts to new information with the objective of improving efficiency (lowering costs). Upon compound exposure, analogues developed a variety of patterns that were strikingly similar to those reported in the literature.
Differences in Cardiovascular Disease Risk Between Nondiabetic Adults With Mental Retardation With and Without Down Syndrome

A reduced expression of the insulin resistance syndrome, a common neuroendocrine disorder underlying atherosclerosis, may play a role in reduced atherosclerosis in adults with Down syndrome. We compared selected components of the insulin resistance syndrome between 75 adults with Down syndrome and 70 with mental retardation due to other causes. After adjusting for age differences, residence, cigarette smoking, and medication use, women with Down syndrome had lower fasting plasma glucose and lower systolic blood pressure than comparison women. Men with Down syndrome had lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure than comparison men. Results suggest that women with Down syndrome may be less likely to express the insulin resistance syndrome, and men and women with Down syndrome may possess fewer atherosclerotic risk factors than the comparison groups.
Beyond “Homophobia”: Thinking about sexual prejudice and stigma in the twenty-first century

George Weinberg’s introduction of the term homophobia in the late 1960s challenged traditional thinking about homosexuality and helped focus society’s attention on the problem of antigay prejudice and stigma. This paper briefly describes the history and impact of homophobia. The term’s limitations are discussed, including its underlying assumption that antigay prejudice is based mainly on fear and its inability to account for historical changes in how society regards homosexuality and heterosexuality as the bases for social identities. Although the importance of Weinberg’s contribution should not be underestimated, a new vocabulary is needed to advance scholarship in this area. Toward this end, three constructs are defined and discussed: sexual stigma (the shared knowledge of society’s negative regard for any nonheterosexual behavior, identity, relationship, or community), heterosexism (the cultural ideology that perpetuates sexual stigma), and sexual prejudice (individuals’ negative attitudes based on sexual orientation). The concept of internalized homophobia is briefly considered.
The Compressed Work Week as Organizational Change: Behavioral and Attitudinal Outcomes

The results from recent studies on the compressed work week have been compiled and categorized in order to provide some basis for generalizing the effects of the work schedule on employee attitudes and behavior. It appears that attitudes toward the compressed week are favorable, with some generalization to job attitudes. Performance outcomes are ambiguous, although there are no reported decreases; fatigue seems to be the only negative aspect of the longer day. An examination of mediating variables suggests more complex relationships between the implementation of the compressed work week and potential outcomes. These relationships are described and directions are indicated for future research.
Developing multitasking applications programs

The current state-of-the-art tools for developing numerical/scientific multitasking applications programs are examined. An integrated toolkit is proposed that is necessary before reliable multitasking applications can be effectively developed. A prototype of the proposed toolkit is being developed on the basis of a static-analysis tool that has been developed by the authors. >
Absence of quantum 1/f noise in the photoelectric current of junction of MIS photodetectors

Quantum 1/f noise is given by a simple engineering formula. It affects photodetectors through mobility and recombination speed fluctuations. The former are also in the diffusion constant, and all affect the dark current. However, there is no quantum 1/f noise in the photogeneration of carriers, as is shown. >
Stochastic adaptive prediction and model reference control

Guo and Chen (1991) have recently shown how to establish the self-optimality and mean square stability of a self-tuning regulator. The idea allows us to proceed with the development of a more comprehensive theory of stochastic adaptive filtering, control and identification. In adaptive filtering, we examine both indirect and noninterlaced direct schemes for prediction, using both least-squares and gradient parameter estimation algorithms. In addition to analyzing similar direct adaptive control algorithms, we propose new generalized certainty equivalence adaptive model reference control laws with simultaneous disturbance rejection. We also establish that the parameters converge to the null space of a certain matrix. From this one may deduce the convergence of several adaptive controllers. >
A NOTE ON THE UTILITY OF KAUFFMAN'S STATE SUMMATION FORMULA FOR THE BRACKET POLYNOMIAL

Kauffman's state summation formula is especially useful for computing the bracket polynomials of projection diagrams which are related by smoothings or crossing changes. This facilitates the writing of a symbolic algebra program which computes the normalized bracket polynomials and frequencies of knots and links whose projection diagrams result from a given knot's oriented projection diagram either by crossing changes or by orientation preserving smoothings called natural smoothings. These frequencies provide insight into the unknotting game (and similar resultant games) whose object is to specify crossing changes or natural smoothings that will transform a given projection diagram of a knot into a projection diagram representing an unknot (or some other specified knot or link). The practical utility of the state summation formula is greatly enhanced by means of diagrams for closed tangle sums. These diagrams offer a special cost-reducing method to obtain crucial information needed to compute the state summation formula. This special method also gives insight into why the bracket is unchanged by mutation and contributes a strategy to the enigmatic search for a non-trivial knot with Jones polynomial equal to one.
Cardiovascular Performance of Alaska Sled Dogs during Exercise

Radiotelemetry was used to study regional blood flow distribution in Alaska sled dogs during cross-country runs. Doppler ultrasonic flowmeter transducers were chronically implanted on the coronary, renal, and mesenteric arteries, terminal abdominal aorta, and ascending aorta or pulmonary artery, and a miniature blood pressure gauge was installed in the aorta or carotid artery. Flow and pressure data telemetered from dogs running on the trail were received and recorded remotely. The heart rate, 40 to 60/min in sleeping dogs, increased to 80 to 100/min when the dogs were ambulatory and to 100 to 150/min when the dogs were excited before a race. Heart rate accelerated to 300/min at the start of exercise and commonly remained at that level throughout prolonged runs. Aortic blood pressure averaged 130/90 mm Hg at rest, but the systolic pressure often exceeded 300 mm Hg when the dogs were running. A transient drop in mean pressure occurred at the onset of running, but mean pressure during sustained exercise was practically identical to that at rest. Flow in the terminal aorta increased 9 to 12 times and coronary flow 5 to 6 times, but mesenteric and renal flows were unchanged during violent, prolonged exercise. These findings contrast with diminished visceral flows recorded in exercising humans and suggest that compensatory redistribution of flow is not a significant reserve mechanism in these animals during exercise.
Physical Activity and the Built Environment

This chapter reports that street connectivity is positively correlated with physical activity for adults but negatively linked with physical activity for children. It also discusses a paradigm shift toward interdisciplinary research on environments with the goal of identifying promising built environmental and policy changes that could produce widespread and permanent changes in physical activity in multiple settings. Then, the past, present, and future of research on built environments and physical activity are explored. There is a consistent association between urban design, land use, and physical activity. Using public transit appears to contribute to overall physical activity. With few exceptions, built environment–physical activity associations have generalized across youth, adults, and older adults. Current and future generations of environment research would benefit from population-wide policies and environments designed to increase rates of physical activity and prevent sedentary behavior and obesity.