cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Manganese Superoxide Dismutase Protects the Proliferative Capacity of Confluent Normal Human Fibroblasts

We tested the hypothesis that manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), an antioxidant enzyme, regulates the proliferative potential of confluent human fibroblasts. Normal human skin (AG01522) and lung (WI38, CCL-75) fibroblasts kept in confluence (>95% G0/G1) showed a significant decrease in their capacity to re-enter the proliferation cycle after 40-60 days. The inhibition of re-entry was accompanied with the age-dependent increase of p16 protein levels in the confluent culture. Adenoviral mediated overexpression of MnSOD during confluent growth suppressed p16, enhanced p21 protein accumulation, and protected fibroblasts against the loss of proliferation potential. Increases in p21 protein levels in MnSOD overexpressing confluent fibroblasts were independent of p53 protein levels. p53 protein levels did not change in control, replication-defective adenovirus containing an insertless vector (AdBgl II), or AdMnSOD-infected confluent cells cultured for 20 and 60 days. In addition, MnSOD-induced protection of the proliferation capacity of confluent fibroblasts was independent of their telomerase activity. However, telomerase-transformed fibroblasts showed increased MnSOD expression in confluent growth, maintaining their capacity to re-enter the proliferation cycle. Although inactivation of the retinoblastoma protein in cells subcultured from the 60-day confluent control, AdBgl II-, and AdMnSOD-infected fibroblasts was identical, only MnSOD-overexpressing cells showed a higher percentage of S-phase. These results support the hypothesis that a redox-sensitive checkpoint regulated the progression of fibroblasts from G0/G1 to S-phase.
Diagnostics and modeling of strained fuel-rich acetylene/oxygen flames used for diamond deposition☆

Abstract Low pressure (35 torr) strained acetylene/oxygen flames similar to those used for diamond chemical vapor deposition are studied using laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) and mass spectrometry. Relative OH concentration and OH rotational temperature profiles are obtained by LIF, while absolute mole fractions of C 2 H 2 , CH 4 , H 2 , and CO are measured at the substrate by mass spectrometry. The results of the diagnostics are compared with the predictions of a one-dimensional strained flame code. The agreement between model prediction and experiment is generally good and usually within experimental uncertainties.
Managing Evaluation in a Federal Public Health Setting.

The author, a federal manager who leads development and maintenance of evaluation for specific public health programs at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tells the story of developing an evaluation unit in the Office on Smoking and Health. Lessons about managing evaluation, including his practices and related principles, are presented. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc.*
Accurate mode-separated energy release rates for delamination cracks

Babuska and Oh introduced a new approach, called the method of auxiliary mapping (MAM), that can effectively handle singularities in the framework of the p-version of the FEM. In this paper, this new approach is generalized so that it can yield highly accurate energy release rates for the cracks in composite materials. The results obtained by this method are more accurate than those obtained by the conventional methods (quarter-point singularity elements). Moreover, it is demonstrated that the mode-separated energy rates of interlaminar cracks of a laminate virtually converge when its layers are of the same material and have different fiber orientations.
Gendered Violence: An Analysis of the Maquiladora Murders:

This study analyzes the social construction of a wave of female homicides surrounding the maquiladora plants in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. Specifically, it explores the social construction of the murders by three different groups, the news media, human rights organizations, and academic researchers. The research begins with a content analysis of 35 narratives from newspapers, human rights reports, and academic journals. Sixteen of these narratives discuss North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in relation with the violence in Juarez. Analysis indicates that gender issues are intertwined with the trade agreement and concludes that the policy has aided in the disruption of the social fabric of Mexican society.
Solubilization of prolactin receptor by a Zwitterionic detergent.

About 60% of the prolactin receptors were solubilized from rabbit mammary gland membranes by Zwittergent 3–12. The use of Zwittergent 3–12 resulted in increased sensitivity of the receptor assay and permitted use of ovine prolactin instead of human growth hormone in the receptor assay.
Hemodynamic effects of aortic occlusion during hemorrhagic shock and cardiac arrest.

Objective: To determine the hemodynamic consequences of aortic occlusion during controlled hemorrhagic arrest. Methods: Ten anesthetized, hemodynamically monitored swine were subjected to a 40 mL/kg hemorrhage over 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute period of apnea. At this time (T15), they were randomized into an UP group (n = 5) in which the thoracic aorta was occluded or a DOWN group (n = 5) in which the aorta was not occluded. Simultaneously, volume resuscitation with shed blood plus 20 mL/kg of normal saline was performed over a 10-minute period. Cardiac massage was performed until return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), which was defined as a sustained systolic blood pressure > 60 mm Hg. After 30 minutes of occlusion (T45), the aortic occlusion was released. Parameters measured include mixed venous and arterial blood gases, serum lactic acid levels, cardiac index, mean arterial pressure (MAP), mean pulmonary artery pressure (MPAP), coronary perfusion pressure (CoPP), and left ventricular stroke work index (LVSWI). Oxygen delivery index (Do 2 I) was measured using a pulmonary artery catheter, and oxygen consumption index (Vo 2 I) was measured by direct calorimetry (Delta Trac metabolic monitor). Results: Four animals in each group achieved ROSC after 3.0 ± 1.8 and 2.2 ± 1.8 minutes in the occluded and nonoccluded groups, respectively. During cardiac compressions and volume resuscitation, the CoPP, MAP, and MPAP were greater in the UP group, although the differences did not achieve statistical significance. After volume resuscitation was complete and during the period of aortic occlusion (T25-T45), the UP group had significantly greater MAP (mm Hg), with a difference of 42.5 ± 20.75 mm Hg at T25 and 44.7 ± 19 mm Hg at T35 (p < 0.03). Despite no difference in Do 2 I, Vo 2 I (mL/min/kg) was significantly lower in the UP group than in the DOWN group, 4.28 ± 0.48 versus 8.33 ± 0.85 at T25 (p = 0.0002) and 4.62 ± 0.9 versus 7.09 ± 0.72 at T35 (p = 0.0005). After release of aortic occlusion at T45, the UP group had significantly lower CoPP (mm Hg) than the DOWN group (20.5 ± 17.3 versus 66.5 ± 28.2 at T45, p = 0.03). LVSWI (g/kg) was also lower in the UP than in the DOWN group (18.6 ± 8.28 versus 36.5 ± 10.2 at T60 [p = 0.03] and 23.6 ± 6.48 versus 48.8 ± 15.3 at T240 [p = 0.02]). After release of the occlusion, there were trends toward increased acidosis and lactic acid levels in the UP group. Conclusions: Aortic occlusion in this controlled hemorrhagic arrest model does not result in improved salvage but is associated with impaired left ventricular function, systemic oxygen utilization, and coronary perfusion pressure in the postresuscitation period.
Screening for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with advanced cirrhosis

OBJECTIVE: Most available data on screening for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with cirrhosis originate from Asia and Europe. These data may not be applicable to patients from the United States because of geographic variation in the underlying etiology and other factors. Our aim was to assess the risk of HCC in U.S. patients with cirrhosis undergoing standardized screening. METHODS: All cirrhotic patients evaluated for liver transplantation at our institution from January 1, 1994–December 31, 1997 were included in this study. The screening strategy included initial screening, which was offered to all patients and consisted of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), abdominal ultrasound, and computed tomography (CT) scan, and extended screening, which was performed only on transplant-eligible patients and consisted of semiannual AFP and ultrasound. RESULTS: During the study period, 285 patients with cirrhosis were evaluated for transplantation and underwent initial screening. Of these, 166 were eligible for transplantation and underwent extended screening during a median follow-up of 15 months (range 6–42 months). Twenty-seven HCC were found, 22 during initial screening and five during extended screening. The cancer-free proportions of the cohort who underwent extended screening at 1, 2, and 3.5 yr were 98.6% ± 1.4%, 96.4 ± 1.8%, and 77.1% ± 1.7%, respectively (mean ± SE). Hepatitis C, either alone or in part, was the etiology in 63% of patients with HCC. The sensitivity of CT scan (88%) was significantly higher than AFP >20 ng/ml (62%) and ultrasound (59%) for detecting HCC (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with established cirrhosis, the risk of detecting HCC is maximal at the baseline screening (7%). Hepatitis C was the most common etiology for cirrhosis in study. In U.S. patients with established cirrhosis, CT scan exhibited higher sensitivity for detecting HCC than ultrasound or AFP.
Th1- and Th2-like cytokines in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in autism

Th1-like (IL-2, IFN-gamma) and Th2-like (IL-4, IL-6, and IL-10) cytokines were examined in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in children with autism. Intracellular cytokines were measured using specific antibodies to various cytokines and anti-CD4 or anti-CD8 monoclonal antibodies by FACScan. Proportions of IFN-gamma+CD4+ T cells and IL-2+CD4+ T cells (Th1), and IFN-gamma+CD8+ and IL-2+CD8+ T cells (TC1) were significantly lower in autistic children as compared to healthy controls. In contrast, IL-4+CD4+ T cells (Th2) and IL-4+CD8+ T cells (TC2) were significantly increased in autism. The proportions of IL-6+ CD4+, IL-6+CD8+ and IL-10+CD4+, IL-10+CD8+ T cells were comparable in autism and control group. These data suggest that an imbalance of Th1- and Th2-like cytokines in autism may play a role in the pathogenesis of autism.
Family structure and housing consumption: A study of Chinese families in Taiwan

This study focuses on variations in types of family structure and patterns of housing consumption in a rapidly developing society. Extended families in Taiwan, in comparison with single-person households and nuclear families, tend to increase aggregate household income, foster homeownership, and consume more housing space.
Effect of Perioperative Renal Replacement Therapy on Mechanical Circulatory Support Outcomes

Purpose The reversibility of acute renal dysfunction with mechanical circulatory support (MCS) remains controversial. We sought to examine outcomes at our center in MCS patients who required perioperative renal replacement therapy (RRT). Methods and Materials Between 8/10-11/12, 75 patients underwent MCS implant at our institution. 29 required perioperative RRT (RRT). 42 patients did not require RRT (No RRT). 4 chronic RRT patients are excluded. Preoperative characteristics are shown in Table 1. Results More RRT patients were INTERMACS Class 1 and received biventricular MCS (p=0.005 and 0.001 respectively). Survival was significantly different with 30, 180, and 360 day survival of 95, 77, and 77% and 55, 28, and 21% in No RRT vs. RRT (p Conclusions The need for perioperative RRT is associated with high mortality. Consistent with INTERMACS, our study suggests that caution should be exercised when considering MCS in these patients. Preoperative Risk FactorsOverallNo RRTRRTpN7142 (59%)29 (41%)Age (years)61.0±13.159.6±14.063.0±11.70.28Male Sex57 (80.0%)29 (69.0%)25 (86.0%)0.096Preop Creatine (mg/dl)1.46±0.871.30±0.551.69±1.200.0714Preop Creatine Clearance (ml/min)67.8±36.773.7±38.759.3±32.30.1042INTERMACS 133 (46%)12 (29%)21 (72%)0.005INTERMACS 217 (24%)12 (29%)5 (17%)INTERMACS 3-521 (30%)18 (43%)3 (10%)
Clinical conditions associated with columnar lined esophagus.

Three case reports are presented which illustrate clinical conditions which may arise in a patient with a columnar lined esophagus. Inflammation, ulceration, stricture and fistula formation are discussed, with emphasis on their clinical presentations and diagnoses by endoscopy and radiology. Of the 3 patients, 2 developed adenocarcinoma as a complication of the lesion. The possible malignant potentiality of this anomaly is stressed, and diligent search for a neoplastic focus in all such cases is urged.
Illusion and Reality in the Law of the Late Qing: A Sichuan Case Study

In the nineteenth century, Chinese emperors and officials were under constant political pressure caused by invasions of foreign powers and domestic rebellions. Against this background, local tax protestssmall in scale yet high in frequency and with wide community support became more politically sensitive than ever before. How to handle these kinds of local incidents? Should protestors be suppressed for their disobedience, or should agents of the state be punished for their corruption, or both? It seems that there were no definitive answers in the code, nor were there intuitive answers in the minds of the top authorities. Therefore, local tax protests perplexed China's rulers. No matter who were finally found to be the principal wrongdoers, the political dramas involved a wide spectrum of legal rhetoric and procedural rituals. A study of how the legal authorities dealt with local tax protests can enrich our understanding of the political and legal cultures of the late Qing. It can also provide us with an opportunity to look anew at the image of Qing law as it was perceived by rulers and local people alike. Scholars have long portrayed traditional Chinese law as a hybrid of Confucianism and Legalism (Bodde and Morris, 1973: 17-51; Ch'ii, 1961; Hucker, 1959: 182-186; Metzger, 1973: 21-91). When law of
A study at autopsy of the relation of absence of the Q wave in leads I, aVL, V5, and V6 to septal fibrosis.

Abstract In patients with an absolute absence of Q waves in Leads I, aV L , V 5 , and V 6 there is an 80 per cent possibility that septal fibrosis is present. If left ventricular hypertrophy is present and there are diminutive Q waves in these leads, septal fibrosis may be present; however, it is not possible to be certain of this. Twenty per cent of the patients without septal Q waves did not have septal fibrosis at autopsy. Most of the patients studied who had an absence of Q waves in Leads I, aV L , V 5 , and V 6 and septal fibrosis at necropsy, also had left ventricular hypertrophy and a prolonged period of angina pectoris.
5 story building

A mischievous Monster, a naive Sidekick, ten shallow Girls, a retired Villain, an apathetic Robot, and a Megalomaniac from outer space live under one roof in the "5 Story Building". Five simultaneous stories tell the lives of the singular occupants of this confining building. These neighbors carry on with their own ambitions and inherited craziness without realizing that their stories are intertwined in this episodic interactive fiction.Jean Paul Sartre and "Sleep No More" inspire this experience for digital tablets that explores the nuances and opportunities enabled by the introduction of interactivity in storytelling."5 Story Building" is intentionally crafted to show off things that traditional media cannot. This project explores the possibility of multiple simultaneous stories that are part of a bigger plot. These stories develop regardless if they are seen or not: the users' decisions are not only about what they sees but also, and maybe most importantly, what they decide not to see.Multiple readings are necessary and voyeurism is encouraged.
Effect of 6-hydroxydopamine on striatal GDNF and nigral GFRα1 and RET mRNAs in the adult rat

Exogenous GDNF as well as vectors containing the gene for this trophic factor has been shown to be neuroprotective in animal models of Parkinson's disease. We therefore investigated whether changes in striatal GDNF protein and nigral mRNA levels of its co-receptors GFRalpha1 and RET occur in response to lesions of dopamine (DA) neurons and examined the temporal profile of these changes as they relate to the loss of dopaminergic markers. Rats were lesioned with 6-hydroxydopamine and sacrificed 3 h to 60 days post-infusion. DA tissue levels in the striatum and tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity in the substantia nigra (SN) and ventral tegmental area (VTA) were used to determine the size of the lesions. GDNF protein was measured in the striatum using radioimmunocytochemistry. In situ hybridization was used to determine alterations in the mRNAs of RET and GFRalpha1 in the SN and VTA. We observed no persistent changes in GDNF protein in the striatum in response to 6-hydroxydopamine over the 60-day observation period, suggesting that compensatory changes in this trophic factor do not occur in response to injury. Dramatic decreases in RET and GFRalpha1 were observed in both SN and VTA that were generally correlated with the loss of TH protein and striatal DA content, strongly suggesting that these receptors are located on DA neurons and that the protective effect of GDNF reflects a direct action of the trophic factor on these neurons.
Bringing the field into the criminal justice classroom: Field trips, ride-alongs, and guest speakers

Educators in a number of disciplines rely on field strategies to show their students how to apply concepts they have learned in their coursework. Very little guidance has been provided to criminal justice educators on ways to successfully bring the field into their classroom. Three strategies for bringing “the real world” into criminal justice courses include field trips, police ride-alongs, and the use of guest speakers. Using our experiences and ideas from the educational literature, this paper addresses the use of each method and suggests a number of strategies to make these field experiences pedagogically successful in criminal justice courses.
Oblique-incidence reflectometry: one relative profile measurement of diffuse reflectance yields two optical parameters

A new, simple and quick approach, oblique-incidence reflectometry, was used to measure the absorption and reduced scattering coefficients of a semi-infinite turbid medium. An obliquely incident light beam causes the center of the far diffuse reflectance to shift from the point of incidence, where the far diffuse reflectance refers to the diffuse reflectance that is several transport mean free paths away from the incident point. The amount of shift yields the diffusion constant by a simple formula, and the slope of the diffuse reflectance yields the attenuation coefficient. Only the relative profile of the diffuse reflectance is needed to deduce both optical parameters, which makes this method attractive in clinical settings because it does not require a stringent calibration for absolute quantity measurements. This method was tested theoretically by Monte Carlo simulations and experimentally by a reflectometer. Because this method can be used to measure optical properties of biological tissues quickly and requires only inexpensive equipment, it has potential clinical application to the diagnosis of disease or monitoring of treatments.
Transient simulation of resonant cavity enhanced heterojunction photodiodes

The transient response of heterojunction photodiodes under pulse illumination has been simulated. By solving discretized time dependent drift-diffusion and Poisson equations, the local potential and carrier concentrations are computed at each time step. The device-level simulation is carried out by a circuit simulator in which localized carrier transport is modeled by circuit elements such as voltage controlled current sources, capacitors, and resistors. Results on conventional AlGaAs/GaAs and resonant cavity enhanced (RCE) GaAs/InGaAs heterojunction p-i-n photodiodes are presented. For a 10- mu m*10- mu m area detector, more than 40% bandwidth improvement along with a two-fold increase in the efficiency is predicted for RCE devices over optimized conventional photodiodes. >
Reduced immune potential of aged mice: significance of morphologic changes in lymphatic tissue.

SummaryHemagglutinin responding capacity to sheep erythrocyte antigen in 3-year-old BC3F1 mice was approximately 10% of the response in normal young adult mice. The reduction in primary antibody-forming capacity was determined in aged animals that had no specific lesion of lymphatic tissue such as lymphoma, lymphosarcoma, suggesting that the reduction was primarily due to unspecific atrophy or degenerative changes. Results of splenectomy in the aged mice suggest that the spleen is the major source of immunological competence in the aged animals and that the reduced immune capacity in these mice is not due simply to failing spleen function.
Pancreatic metastasis from Ewing's sarcoma

A 26-year-old man with Ewing's sarcoma of the femur was found to have a solitary visceral metastatic focus in the pancreas. This very unusual occurrence and the topic of metastases to the pancreas in general are discussed.
Lyme disease: a case about ecosystem services

O ne way to help students develop critical thinking skills is to focus on problems or cases where they are challenged to deal with real data and experiences (Bransford et al. 2004). Both problem-based learning and case studies allow students to develop the intellectual capacity to deal with complex issues, build confidence and willingness to approach topics from multiple perspectives, and encourage communication with scientists and peers from other disciplines. Students often compartmentalize content and process knowledge by discipline, whereas an interdisciplinary approach allows them to draw from multiple resources in the life sciences, mathematics, social sciences, and other disciplines. The literature is rich with examples and methods for using case studies (see References) and the majority of authors agree that if a case study is to be useful pedagogically, it must serve a specific function for the course and students. Such focus provides students with a more efficient means of achieving specific learning goals as compared to the traditional lecture approach (Herreid 1994, 1998). Kremen and Ostfeld's paper on ecosystem services (pp 540-48) contains two case studies that provide examples of how ecological data are not often collected or interpreted in isolation. We use the Lyme disease case study to demonstrate how real data can be used to teach complex topics, while enabling students to discover how a number of disciplines can inform ecological issues. This activity is designed for an ecology course but could also be used as part of an introductory biology course.
Elimination of zinc from synaptic vesicles in the intact mouse brain by disruption of the ZnT3 gene

The mammalian protein ZnT3 resides on synaptic vesicle membranes of zinc-containing neurons, suggesting its possible role in vesicular zinc transport. We show here that histochemically reactive zinc, corresponding to the zinc found within synaptic vesicles, was undetectable in the brains of mice with targeted disruption of the ZnT3 gene. Total zinc levels in the hippocampus and cortex of these mice were reduced by about 20%. The ultrastructure of mossy fiber boutons, which normally store the highest levels of vesicular zinc, was unaffected. Mice with one normal ZnT3 allele had reduced levels of ZnT3 protein on synaptic vesicle membranes and had intermediate amounts of vesicular zinc. These results demonstrate that ZnT3 is required for transport of zinc into synaptic vesicles and suggest that vesicular zinc concentration is determined by the abundance of ZnT3.
Long range excitonic transport in a biomimetic system inspired by the bacterial light-harvesting apparatus

Photosynthesis, the process by which energy from sunlight drives cellular metabolism, relies on a unique organization of light-harvesting and reaction center complexes. Recently, the organization of light-harvesting LH2 complexes and dimeric reaction center-light-harvesting I-PufX core complexes in membranes of purple non-sulfur bacteria was revealed by atomic force microscopy [S. Bahatyrova et al., Nature (London) 430, 1058 (2004)]. Here, we discuss optimal exciton transfer in a biomimetic system closely modeled on the structure of LH2 and its organization within the membrane using a Markovian quantum model with dissipation and trapping added phenomenologically. In a deliberate manner, we neglect the high level detail of the bacterial light-harvesting complex and its interaction with the phonon bath in order to elucidate a set of design principles that may be incorporated in artificial pigment-scaffold constructs in a supramolecular assembly. We show that our scheme reproduces many of the most salient features found in their natural counterpart and may be largely explained by simple electrostatic considerations. Most importantly, we show that quantum effects act primarily to enforce robustness with respect to spatial and spectral disorder between and within complexes. The implications of such an arrangement are discussed in the context of biomimetic photosynthetic analogs capable of transferring energy efficiently across tens to hundreds of nanometers.
Study of DNA sequence supraorganization by intramolecular renaturation.

The method of DNA partial denaturation and intramolecular renaturation (in the absence of biomolecular reassociation) is developed analytically and presented as a means by which the supraorganization of the DNA sequences within large complex genomes may be studied. This analysis provides for the comparison of the actual borganization of DNA sequences with a random arrangement of the same sequences. The sequence organization of the E. coli genome does not appear to be very different from DNA sequences arranged along the genome without preference to sequence stabilities, whereas an orderly physical arrangement of DNA sequences is implicated for the human genoma.
Cerebral perfusion defects in combined cocaine and alcohol dependence

Abstract Background: Cocaine abuse has been associated with widely distributed areas of significant cerebral blood flow (CBF) reductions or hypo-perfusion as well as CBF hyper-perfusion, but these perfusion abnormalities have not been examined using newer technologies such as statistical parametric mapping (SPM). These areas of abnormal CBF may be more likely among those who abuse cocaine and alcohol together. Methods: Using SPECT with HMPAO for CBF we compared proportional scaling (PS) to histogram normalization (HEQ) in SPM among 20 controls and 32 recently abstinent cocaine abusers. We then separated the cocaine abusers into two groups (12 cocaine plus alcohol abusers and 20 cocaine alone abusers) and compared both groups to the 20 controls for brain areas of hypo- and hyper-perfusion. Results: Sensitivity to hypo-perfusion was greater with HEQ than PS. Hypo-perfused areas were more likely in the 12 alcohol plus cocaine abusers than in the 20 cocaine alone abusers or 20 controls, and hyper-perfused areas were significantly more likely among the cocaine abusers than controls. The type of CBF abnormality varied by brain location with hypo-perfusion significantly more likely in occipital and temporal cortex or cerebellum and hyper-perfusion more likely in frontal and parietal cortex. Conclusions: These abnormalities in brain perfusion are consistent with previous non-SPM approaches that showed more hypo-perfusion in cocaine abusers than controls and appear to reflect vasospasm and potential compensations in cerebral blood flow.
Even pairs in Berge graphs

Our proof (with Robertson and Thomas) of the strong perfect graph conjecture ran to 179 pages of dense matter; and the most impenetrable part was the final 55 pages, on what we called ''wheel systems.'' In this paper we give a replacement for those 55 pages, much easier and shorter, using ''even pairs.'' This is based on an approach of Maffray and Trotignon.
MINT, the Msx2 interacting nuclear matrix target, enhances Runx2-dependent activation of the osteocalcin fibroblast growth factor response element.

Msx2 promotes osteogenic lineage allocation from mesenchymal progenitors but inhibits terminal differentiation demarcated by osteocalcin (OC) gene expression. Msx2 inhibits OC expression by targeting the fibroblast growth factor responsive element (OCFRE), a 42-bp DNA domain in the OC gene bound by the Msx2 interacting nuclear target protein (MINT) and Runx2/Cbfa1. To better understand Msx2 regulation of the OCFRE, we have studied functional interactions between MINT and Runx2, a master regulator of osteoblast differentiation. In MC3T3E1 osteoblasts (with endogenous Runx2 and FGFR2), MINT augments transcription driven by the OCFRE that is further enhanced by FGF2 treatment. OCFRE regulation can be reconstituted in the naive CV1 fibroblast cell background. In CV1 cells, MINT synergizes with Runx2 to enhance OCFRE activity in the presence of activated FGFR2. The RNA recognition motif domain of MINT (which binds the OCFRE) is required. Runx2 structural studies reveal that synergy with MINT uniquely requires Runx2 activation domain 3. In confocal immunofluorescence microscopy, MINT adopts a reticular nuclear matrix distribution that overlaps transcriptionally active osteoblast chromatin, extensively co-localizing with the phosphorylated RNA polymerase II meshwork. MINT only partially co-localizes with Runx2; however, co-localization is enhanced 2.5-fold by FGF2 stimulation. Msx2 abrogates Runx2-MINT OCFRE activation, and MINT-directed RNA interference reduces endogenous OC expression. In chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, Msx2 selectively inhibits Runx2 binding to OC chromatin. Thus, MINT enhances Runx2 activation of multiprotein complexes assembled by the OCFRE. Msx2 targets this complex as a mechanism of transcriptional inhibition. In osteoblasts, MINT may serve as a nuclear matrix platform that organizes and integrates osteogenic transcriptional responses.
Temperature gradients in horizontal tube furnaces

Abstract Radial temperature differences in a 1 in. diameter horizontal tube furnace similar to those used in thermogravimetry were measured as a function of purge gas flow rate and pressure at temperatures from 25 to 525°C. The temperature difference between a thermocouple at the tube axis and one 0.8 cm off center was 45°C at 400°C, 1 atm pressure of nitrogen and 25 ml min−1 flow rate. This large temperature difference was attributed to laminar flow conditions. Effects of these large radial variations on temperature measurement and calibration are discussed. Several methods for minimizing these temperature differences by insertion of in-line preheaters and mixers are suggested.
Development of a Brief Version of the Children's Roles Inventory (CRI-20)

In the present study, a brief version of the Children's Role Inventory (CRI-60) was developed. Along with other measures, 840 undergraduates completed the CRI-60. Exploratory factor analysis yielded two interpretable factors (Hero vs. Scapegoat, Mascot vs. Lost Child). Structural equation modeling (SEM) procedures identified items for four 5-item CRI scales (CRI-20). Each CRI-20 scale correlated closely with the corresponding CRI-60 scale. Selecting the highest 5-item scale score, four categories were established. Category differences were found for family dysfunction and codependency. Further, χ2-tests indicated that participants in the CRI-20 categories differed significantly in risk of alcoholism, self-reported addiction, and father's addiction.
Approximate Dynamic Programming for Ambulance Redeployment

We present an approximate dynamic programming approach for making ambulance redeployment decisions in an emergency medical service system. The primary decision is where we should redeploy idle ambulances so as to maximize the number of calls reached within a delay threshold. We begin by formulating this problem as a dynamic program. To deal with the high-dimensional and uncountable state space in the dynamic program, we construct approximations to the value function that are parameterized by a small number of parameters. We tune the parameters using simulated cost trajectories of the system. Computational experiments demonstrate the performance of the approach on emergency medical service systems in two metropolitan areas. We report practically significant improvements in performance relative to benchmark static policies.
Hydrology for Engineers, Geologists, and Environmental Professionals

For people who are involved in the applied aspects of hydrology, it is refreshing to find a textbook that begins with a meaningful disclaimer, albeit in fine print on the back side of the frontispiece: “The present book and the accompanying software have been written according to the latest techniques in scientific hydrology. However, hydrology is at best an inexact science. A good book and a good computer software by themselves do not guarantee accurate or even realistic predictions. Acceptable results in the applications of hydrologic methods to engineering and environmental problems depend to a greater extend (sic) on the skills, logical assumptions, and practical experience of the user, and on the quantity and quality of long-term hydrologic data available. Neither the author nor the publisher assumes any responsibility or any liability, explicitly or implicitly, on the results or the consequences of using the information contained in this book or its accompanying software.”
Forming a Primordial Star in a Relic H II Region

There has been considerable theoretical debate over whether photoionization and supernova feedback from the first Population III stars facilitate or suppress the formation of the next generation of stars. We present results from an Eulerian adaptive mesh refinement simulation demonstrating the formation of a primordial star within a region ionized by an earlier nearby star. Despite the higher temperatures of the ionized gas and its flow out of the dark matter potential wells, this second star formed within 23 million years of its neighbor's death. The enhanced electron fraction within the H II region catalyzes rapid molecular hydrogen formation that leads to faster cooling in the subsequent star-forming halos than in the first halos. This "second generation" primordial protostar has a much lower accretion rate because, unlike the first protostar, it forms in a rotationally supported disk of ~10-100 M☉. This is primarily due to the much higher angular momentum of the halo in which the second star forms. In contrast to previously published scenarios, such configurations may allow binaries or multiple systems of lower mass stars to form. These first high-resolution calculations offer insight into the impact of feedback upon subsequent populations of stars and clearly demonstrate how primordial chemistry promotes the formation of subsequent generations of stars even in the presence of the entropy injected by the first stars into the intergalactic medium.
Impact of Duty Cycle Variation on WSNs

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) operate with varying duty cycles to meet their application-specific criteria such as the availability, reliability, and the life expectancy of the system. This variation in duty cycle consequently affects the system characteristics including the interference and collision of signals. However, the sensitivity to physical jamming attacks with respect to duty cycle of the network is not widely explored area of research. This paper presents a detailed analysis of the effect of the duty cycle to the interference and collision of signals in the WSNs. In particular, our simulation model depicts a log normal shadowing model to represent a realistic wireless channel and observe the effects of duty cycle variation when a physical jamming attack is launched on the network using a compromised node. Our results show that setting the duty cycle at predetermined value would help minimize the packet drop ratio of the network.
Interrupt-driven microprocessor-based overcurrent relay

An interrupt-driven overcurrent relay for power systems using the 8085 microprocessor is presented. The relay requests processing time from the microprocessor only when a fault occurs. In this way, the microprocessor is given the opportunity to run other tasks such as diagnostic tests online during normal conditions. >
Nurse-led intervention increases smoking cessation among people with coronary heart disease $

Abstract Question What is the effect of a nurse-led intervention on smoking cessation in people admitted to hospital for coronary heart disease? Study design Randomised controlled trial. Main results The nurse-led smoking cessation intervention increased smoking cessation rates at 12 months (AR for quitting: 50% (57/114) with intervention v 37% (4/119) with control; absolute risk reduction 13%, 95% CI 0% to 26%; NNT 8, 95% CI 4 to 250; conservative intention to treat analysis). Authors’ conclusions A nurse-led smoking cessation program was effective in people who had been admitted to hospital for coronary heart disease. The extended duration of the intervention may have been an important factor.
Role of Anaerobiosis in Capsule Production and Biofilm Formation in Vibrio vulnificus

Vibrio vulnificus, a pervasive human pathogen, can cause potentially fatal septicemia after consumption of undercooked seafood. Biotype 1 strains of V. vulnificus are most commonly associated with human infection and are separated into two genotypes, clinical (C) and environmental (E), based on the virulence-correlated gene. For ingestion-based vibriosis to occur, this bacterium must be able to withstand multiple conditions as it traverses the gastrointestinal tract and ultimately gains entry into the bloodstream. One such condition, anoxia, has yet to be extensively researched in V. vulnificus. We investigated the effect of oxygen availability on capsular polysaccharide (CPS) production and biofilm formation in this bacterium, both of which are thought to be important for disease progression. We found that lack of oxygen elicits a reduction in both CPS and biofilm formation in both genotypes. This is further supported by the finding that pilA, pilD, and mshA genes, all of which encode type IV pilin proteins that aid in attachment to surfaces, were downregulated during anaerobiosis. Surprisingly, E-genotypes exhibited distinct differences in gene expression levels of capsule and attachment genes compared to C-genotypes, both aerobically and anaerobically. The importance of understanding these disparities may give insight into the observed differences in environmental occurrence and virulence potential between these two genotypes of V. vulnificus.
Thoughts About Collaboration—Or Is It Capitulation?

In this essay, I share my thoughts about collaboration and capitulation. I pose several questions that point to the danger of capitulation when collaborative efforts between nurses and between nurses and other healthcare team members fail to take into account the distinctive perspectives of the discipline of nursing and the distinctions between associate degree and baccalaureate degree entry into nursing practice programs.
Fidelity and Processivity of Saccharomyces cerevisiae DNA Polymerase η

The yeast RAD30 gene functions in error-free replication of UV-damaged DNA, and RAD30 encodes a DNA polymerase, pol η, that has the ability to efficiently and correctly replicate past a cis-syn-thymine-thymine dimer in template DNA. To better understand the role of pol η in damage bypass, we examined its fidelity and processivity on nondamaged DNA templates. Steady-state kinetic analyses of deoxynucleotide incorporation indicate that pol η has a low fidelity, misincorporating deoxynucleotides with a frequency of about 10−2 to 10−3. Also pol η has a low processivity, incorporating only a few nucleotides before dissociating. We suggest that pol η's low fidelity reflects a flexibility in its active site rendering it more tolerant of DNA damage, while its low processivity limits its activity to reduce errors.
Infrared frequency-modulation measurements of absolute rate coefficients for Cl+HD→HCl(DCl)+D(H) between 295 and 700 K

Abstract Absolute rate coefficients and HCl branching fractions for the Cl+HD reaction have been measured. The rate coefficient for Cl+HD is fit well by k 1 =(1.28±0.18)×10 −16 T 1.67 e −(1646±60)/T cm3 molecule−1 s−1, approximately 30% smaller than the mean of literature rate coefficients for Cl+H2 and D2. The branching fraction into the HCl channel is 0.67±0.09 at 295 K and decreases at higher temperature. The present results agree well with literature measurements of relative rates, confirming different isotope effects in thermal conditions than in molecular beam measurements.
Long-term Cognitive Sequelae of Acyclovir-Treated Herpes Simplex Encephalitis

• Survival from untreated herpes simplex type 1 encephalitis is well known to be accompanied by severe cognitive impairments. Recently, acyclovir has been proven to be the most effective available treatment for this disease, with the expectation that it would appreciably reduce morbidity. We performed detailed assessments of four consecutive patients who received acyclovir in the early stages of biopsy-proven herpes encephalitis and who now have been followed up for 1.5 to 4 years. All four patients showed definite residual on either clinical or formal neuropsychological testing, most commonly dysnomia and impaired new learning for both verbal and visual material, even though three had normal performance on a standard clinical mental status test. All four patients were unable to function at their prior level of achievement. Therefore, despite early administration of acyclovir in herpes encephalitis, long-lasting neuropsychological residua are likely. Furthermore, cognitive deficits of prognostic importance may not be detected by clinical screening.
Pathway analysis using random forests with bivariate node-split for survival outcomes

Motivation: There is great interest in pathway-based methods for genomics data analysis in the research community. Although machine learning methods, such as random forests, have been developed to correlate survival outcomes with a set of genes, no study has assessed the abilities of these methods in incorporating pathway information for analyzing microarray data. In general, genes that are identified without incorporating biological knowledge are more difficult to interpret. Correlating pathway-based gene expression with survival outcomes may lead to biologically more meaningful prognosis biomarkers. Thus, a comprehensive study on how these methods perform in a pathway-based setting is warranted. Results: In this article, we describe a pathway-based method using random forests to correlate gene expression data with survival outcomes and introduce a novel bivariate node-splitting random survival forests. The proposed method allows researchers to identify important pathways for predicting patient prognosis and time to disease progression, and discover important genes within those pathways. We compared different implementations of random forests with different split criteria and found that bivariate node-splitting random survival forests with log-rank test is among the best. We also performed simulation studies that showed random forests outperforms several other machine learning algorithms and has comparable results with a newly developed component-wise Cox boosting model. Thus, pathway-based survival analysis using machine learning tools represents a promising approach in dissecting pathways and for generating new biological hypothesis from microarray studies. Availability: R package Pwayrfsurvival is available from URL: http://www.duke.edu/~hp44/pwayrfsurvival.htm Contact: pathwayrf@gmail.com Supplementary information:Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Time-resolved line focus acoustic microscopy of layered anisotropic media: application to composites

This paper presents theoretical and experimental studies of the time-domain response of line focus acoustic microscopy from a layered anisotropic medium. A method for elastic constant reconstruction from acoustic microscopy signatures also is presented. The microscopy response is complicated by multiple reflections in the layers and by the anisotropic nature of the material. The model is based on a new, stable recursive stiffness matrix algorithm developed for a multilayered anisotropic medium, which is applied to the interpretation of the time-resolved acoustic microscopy signature. Specific examples are given for unidirectional and multidirectional graphite epoxy composites. It is shown that the fluid load has a significant effect on the leaky surface waves in these composites, increasing surface wave speed above that for the slow transverse wave. This results in its absence from the microscopy signature of the surface wave. The theoretical results are compared with experiments carried out using a line focus PVDF transducer developed at National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Time-resolved acoustic microscopy has been applied to the determination of elastic constants of a unidirectional composite or of one lamina in a cross-ply composite. The lateral waves and multiple reflections of bulk waves appearing in the microscopy signatures are used for the elastic properties reconstruction. The reconstruction results are compared to data obtained by the self-reference double-through-transmission ultrasonic bulk wave method.
Product Diversification in the U.S. Pulp and Paper Industry: The Case of International Paper, 1898–1941

During the years 1918 to 1941, International Paper (IP) launched a massive product diversification effort. Engineered by three successive presidents, diversification turned the company from a newsprint producer based in the northeastern United States into an international manufacturer of southern kraft grades, Canadian newsprint, hydroelectric power, and specialty papers. With the exception of kraft paperboard and converted products, however, the new product lines failed to provide IP with a firm foothold in markets for consumer nondurables, where nimbler competitors thrived even during the 1930s. IP and firms in other “maturing industries” that clung to traditional products and stagnant markets contributed to the length and severity of the Great Depression.
Natural adjuvants: Endogenous activators of dendritic cells

Dendritic cells, the most potent antigen-presenting cells, need to be activated before they can function to initiate an immune response. We report here that, in the absence of any foreign substances, dendritic cells can be activated by endogenous signals received from cells that are stressed, virally infected or killed necrotically, but not by healthy cells or those dying apoptotically. Injected in vivo with an antigen, the endogenous activating substances can function as natural adjuvants to stimulate a primary immune response, and they may represent the natural initiators of transplant rejection, spontaneous tumor rejection, and some forms of autoimmunity.
Optimal energy management of a series hybrid vehicle with combined fuel economy and low-emission objectives:

A series hybrid powertrain provides ultimate freedom in controlling the engine. The flexibility enabled with hybridization creates chances for a synergistic approach, in which the hybrid supervisor...