cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intron retention generates a novel Id3 isoform that inhibits vascular lesion formation.

Abstract The expression of intron-containing messages has been shown to occur in a variety of diseases including lactic acidosis, Cowden Syndrome, and several cancers. However, it is unknown whether these intron-containing messages result in protein production in vivo. Indeed, intron-containing RNAs are typically retained in the nucleus, targeted for degradation, or are repressed translationally. Here, we show that during vascular lesion formation in rats, an alternative isoform of the helix-loop-helix transcription factor Id3 (Id3a) generated by intron retention is abundantly expressed. We demonstrate that Id3 is expressed early in lesion formation when the proliferative index of the neointima is highest and that Id3 promotes smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation and S-phase entry and inhibits transcription of the cell-cycle inhibitor p21Cip1. Using an Id3a-specific antibody developed by our laboratory, we show that Id3a protein is induced during vascular lesion formation and that Id3a expression peaks late when the proliferative index is low or declining and extensive apoptosis is observed. Furthermore, Id3a fails to promote SMC growth and S-phase entry or to inhibit p21Cip1 promoter transactivation. In contrast, Id3a stimulates SMC apoptosis and inhibits endogenous Id3 production. Adenoviral delivery of Id3a inhibited lesion formation in balloon-injured rat carotid arteries in vivo. These data describe a novel feedback loop whereby intron retention generates an Id3 isoform that acts to limit SMC growth during vascular lesion formation, providing the first evidence that regulated intron retention can modulate a pathologic process in vivo.
Antitumor effects of interleukin-2 and mismatched double-stranded RNA, individually and in combination, against a human malignant melanoma xenograft.

The antitumor effects of recombinant interleukin-2 (rIL-2) and mismatched double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) were assessed in tissue culture and in a nude mouse model. Mismatched dsRNA did not show a direct antiproliferative effect against the human malignant melanoma cell line, BRO, in tissue culture. However, treatment of the BRO cells with up to 1000 units/ml rIL-2 in culture showed a slight increase in growth rate. Combined rIL-2/mismatched dsRNA treatment also demonstrated a similar slight enhancement of growth. Nude mice bearing subcutaneous tumors were treated by intraperitoneal injection of low doses (5000–20 000 units) of rIL-2 and mismatched dsRNA (500 µg). The in vivo tumor growth was significantly inhibited by the combined treatments (P <0.05) and survival was significantly increased (P <0.05). Measurement of cytotoxicity using splenocytes from treated animals showed significant augmentation of lytic activity against natural killer(NK)-sensitive YAC-1 cells in all rIL-2/mismatched dsRNA treatment groups, compared to the individual treatments or controls (P <0.05). Cytotoxicity of the splenocytes against the NK-resistant BRO cells was also augmented in animals treated with mismatched dsRNA and the highest rIL-2 dose utilized here (P <0.01). Renal, liver, and hematological toxicity was evaluated by measurement of blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, serum asparrtate aminotransferase, and a complete blood count with differential. There were no significant differences in these parameters in any of the treatment groups. Similarly, no differences in weight of the animals was seen in any treatment group. These results indicate that the combination of low-dose rIL-2 and mismatched dsRNA can potentiate host-mediated antitumor effects, yielding increased survival, without significant toxicity.
Sometimes it's neither the hormones nor the genes.

In addition to transcriptional and translational regulatory processes, targeting of cellular proteins for proteosome-mediated degradation provides an important regulatory step by which cell function can be modulated. Now a physicochemical factor, osmotic stress, has been shown to affect polyubiquitination of aquaporin-1. This model system suggests the need for endocrine studies to consider non-genomic and non-receptor-mediated processes that alter cell function in general and that might even contribute to the appearance and progression of disease.
The Behavior of Hadron Collisions at Extreme Energies

There are several reasons to be interested in this problem of very high energy hadron scattering. Firstly, most theoretical inventions are based on analysis of simple collisions, in which only a small number of particles come out. But it is at once realized that questions of unitarity, the asymptotic behavior for high energy in dispersion integrals, etc, require some ansatz be made for the higher energy collisions, in order to close the infinite hierarchy of equations which result. Secondly, experiments at high energies usually yield many particles, and only by selecting the rare collision can we find those about which the theorist has been speaking. For the highly multiple inelastic collisions (to which the major part of the inelastic cross section is due) so many variables are involved that it is not known how to organize or present this data. Any theoretical suggestion (even if it proves to be not quite right) suggests a way that this vast amount of data may be analyzed. For this reason I shall present here some preliminary speculations on how these collisions might behave even though I have not yet analyzed them as fully as I would like.
Agreement of visual estimation of coronary artery calcium from low-dose CT attenuation correction scans in hybrid PET/CT and SPECT/CT with standard Agatston score.

Objectives We sought to evaluate the accuracy and reproducibility of visual estimation of coronary artery calcium (CAC) from computed tomography attenuation correction (CTAC) scans performed for hybrid positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/CT myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). Background At the time of MPI, hybrid systems obtain a low-dose, non-electrocardiogram (ECG)-gated CT scan that is used to perform attenuation correction. Utility of this CTAC scan in estimating actual CAC as measured by Agatston score (AS) on standard ECG-gated scans has not been previously studied. Methods A total of 492 patients, from 3 centers, receiving both MPI with CTAC and a standard CAC scan were studied. At each site, experienced readers blinded to AS reviewed CTAC images, visually estimating CAC on a 6-level scale: classifying patients as estimated AS of 0, 1 to 9, 10 to 99, 100 to 300, 400 to 999, or ≥1,000. Agreement between visually estimated coronary artery calcium (VECAC) on CTAC and AS, measured standardly and converted to the same scale, was evaluated, as was inter-reader agreement. Results Although CTAC images are low dose and nongated, a high degree of association was observed between VECAC and AS, with 63% of VECACs in the same category as the AS category and 93% within 1 category. Weighted kappa was 0.89 (95% confidence interval: 0.88 to 0.91, p Conclusions CAC can be visually assessed from low-dose CTAC scans with high agreement with AS. CTAC scans should be routinely assessed for VECAC.
Polylysine binding to histone-bound regions in chromatin.

Abstract Thermal denaturation of calf thymus nucleohistone, polylysine-nucleohistone and polylysine-pure DNA were studied. In calf thymus nucleohistone polylysine binds preferentially to the DNA regions originally bound by non-histone proteins or the gaps between adjacent histone-bound regions and regions covered by less basic half-molecules of histones. Polylysine binds to chromatin with only one half efficiency when compared to polylysine binding to pure DNA. Using polylysine titration to determine the fraction of free DNA regions in chromatin is questionable.
Soluble activated charcoal

Abstract Reduction of activated charcoal by lithium in liquid ammonia yields charcoal salts that can be reacted with dodecyl iodide to yield soluble dodecylated activated charcoal. Atomic force microscopy images reveal a heterogeneous size distribution of nearly spherical nanoparticles. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy images show a layered microcrystalline arrangement that becomes separated to form mostly single layered disordered structures after dodecylation. A 1H–13C cross polarization magic angle spinning spectrum of the charcoal revealed a broad, featureless signal from sp2 carbons and a much weaker broad signal from aliphatic carbons.
Evaluation of constricted affect in chronic pain: an attempt using the Toronto Alexythymia Scale.

Abstract The Toronto Alexythymia Scale (TAS) was applied as a potential measure of constricted affect among a sample of patients with chronic, non-malignant pain (n = 195). As previously demonstrated with non-clinical samples, the scale was found to possess moderate reliability with two principal internal factors. These factors seemed to reflect social introversion and a lack of proneness to fantasy. There was a moderate, negative association between them. The domain sampled by the TAS was apparently heterogenous, with total scores showing no relationship to reported disability or pain intensity and a low relationship to reported distress. These results suggest potential limitations of the TAS and the alexythymia construct as means for evaluating constricted affect that accompanies chronic pain.
Sertraline Effects on Cerebrospinal Fluid Monoamines and Species-typical Socioemotional Behavior of Female Cynomolgus Monkeys

Although widely prescribed, little is known about the effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) on social behavior and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) monoamines in female primates. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of sertraline on agonistic and affiliative behavior. Twenty-one adult female cynomolgus monkeys were housed in small, stable social groups, trained to participate in oral dosing, and began a 5-week cumulative dose–response study. Serial doses of 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/kg of sertraline were administered orally for 1 week each. Behavior was recorded daily during 10-min observations before and 4 h after dosing. On the seventh day of dosing, circulating sertraline/desmethylsertraline and CSF monoamines/metabolites were determined 4 h after the last dose. At 20 mg/kg, circulating sertraline/desmethylsertraline was in the therapeutic range. CSF 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid decreased by 33 % (p < 0.05). Overall aggression, submission, locomotion, and time alone decreased, whereas affiliative behaviors (body contact, grooming) increased (all p values <0.05). Effects of sertraline on aggression and submission were social status-dependent, reducing aggression in dominants and submission in subordinates. A clinically relevant oral dose of sertraline resulted in CSF metabolite changes similar to those observed in patients and altered the socioemotional behavior of female monkeys. Changes in CSF 5-HT and dopamine are novel observations that may be sex-specific. The robust effects of sertraline on aggression and affiliation may explain the efficacy of SSRIs on a range of human behavioral pathologies that share the characteristics of increased aggression and decreased sociality.
The Analogy of Names

We are now in a position to examine the doctrine of the analogy of names. Since, as we have already pointed out, the analogy of names is for St Thomas a kind of equivocation, it will be well to examine in some detail the logical doctrine of equivocation and univocation. These matters are discussed at the outset of the Categories and they are numbered among the considerations which have come to be called the antepredicaments.
Diveriticulitis versus colon cancer : Differentiation with helical CT findings

PURPOSE: To retrospectively determine the computed tomographic (CT) signs associated with diverticulitis or colon cancer, and to prospectively apply these signs in the differentiation of these diseases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-eight CT scans in cases of proved diverticulitis (n = 27) or colon cancer (n = 31) were evaluated retrospectively by radiologists (blinded to the proved diagnosis) for the presence or absence of previously reported CT findings. These findings were correlated with the pathologic or final clinical diagnosis. The retrospective findings were applied in a prospective evaluation with a new set of 72 CT scans. The same five radiologists rendered a diagnosis according to a five-point confidence scale from definitely benign to definitely malignant. Individual and consensus readings were correlated with the final diagnosis. RESULTS: Retrospectively, pericolonic inflammation (P < .01) and segment involvement greater than 10 cm (P < .012) were the most significant findings for diverticulit...
A comparison of acute hospital charges after tubular versus open microdiskectomy.

Objective To determine if tubular microdiskectomy is associated with differences in hospital charges compared with open microdiskectomy. Methods A retrospective review of patients who underwent tubular microdiskectomy or open microdiskectomy performed by the senior authors from 2007-2010 was performed. The primary outcome was inflation-adjusted total hospital charges for each procedure using itemized charge data obtained from the hospital finance department. Secondary outcomes included length of stay, complications, and operative times. Results There were 76 eligible patients (33 open microdiskectomy and 48 tubular microdiskectomy) identified during the study period. The mean total charge was $27,811 (standard deviation $11,198) in the open group compared with $22,358 (standard deviation $8695) in the tubular group. Total charges in the tubular group were on average $5453 less than in the open group (P = 0.02). There were no significant differences in operative times or complications. Length of stay was significantly shorter in the tubular group (mean 1.5 days open vs. 0.9 days tubular, P = 0.01). Conclusions This analysis revealed significantly lower acute hospital charges associated with tubular microdiskectomy versus open microdiskectomy at an academic tertiary care hospital. These differences appear to the related to decreased use of postoperative resources in the tubular group.
Newborn Screening for Cystic Fibrosis by Use of a Multiplex Immunoassay

Background: Since its beginnings, newborn screening for cystic fibrosis (CF) using an assay for immunoreactive trypsinogen (IRT) has been plagued by a high rate of false-positive results (screen positive, diagnosis negative), despite attempts to reduce this rate by use of altered cutoffs and second-tier DNA testing. IRT exists as 2 isoforms: IRT1 and IRT2, with IRT2 being more closely aligned with pancreatic disease, including CF. Assay standardization between programs is a continuing problem because the IRT assays currently in use variously recognize either 1 or both isoforms. Here we report the development of a multiplexed assay for both forms of IRT simultaneously. Methods: Using 2 different Luminex bead sets, we developed assays for each IRT isoform separately and then combined them. Using the sum of IRT1 and IRT2 values (IRT1+IRT2), we compared the results with a CF kit currently in use. Results: In a sample set consisting of 16 cases confirmed positive for CF, we established a cutoff at >97 μg/L total IRT. Seven of 8 carriers with 1 CF mutation screen-positive by the standard method were also screen-positive by IRT1+IRT2. Of 32 cases screen-positive by standard IRT, 11 were screen-negative by IRT1+IRT2. None of these 11 cases had CF mutations identified by the screening program. Conclusions: These data indicate that the multiplex method with specificity for 2 isoforms of IRT has performance comparable to that of a standard IRT method and the advantage of improved standardization by detection of the 2 isoforms.
The impact of magnetic resonance imaging-detected white matter hyperintensities on longitudinal changes in regional cerebral blood flow

White matter hyperintensities are frequently detected on cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of older adults. Given the presumed ischemic contribution to the etiology of these lesions and the posited import of resting brain activity on cognitive function, we hypothesized that longitudinal changes in MRI-detected white matter disease, and its severity at a given time point, would be associated with changes in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) over time. We evaluated MRI scans and resting H(2)(15)O positron emission tomographic rCBF at baseline and after an average of 7.7-year follow-up in Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging participants without dementia. Differences in patterns of rCBF were evident at baseline and at follow-up between the group of subjects showing increased white matter disease over the 8-year interval compared with the group with stable white matter ratings. Furthermore, longitudinal changes over time in rCBF also differed between the two groups. Specifically, the group with progressive white matter abnormalities showed greater increase in the right inferior temporal gyrus/fusiform gyrus, right anterior cingulate, and the rostral aspect of the left superior temporal gyrus. Regions of greater longitudinal decrease in this group were evident in the right inferior parietal lobule and at the right occipital pole. Changes in white matter disease over time and its severity at any given time are associated significantly with both cross-sectional and longitudinal patterns of rCBF. The longitudinal increases may reflect cortical compensation mechanisms for reduced efficacy of interregional neural communications that result from white matter deterioration.
Pharmacokinetics of phenylbutazone in beef steers

De Veau, I. F., Pedersoli, W., Cullison R., Baker J. Pharmacokinetics of phenylbutazone in beef steers. J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap.25, 195–200. Phenylbutazone was administered intravenously to a group of 11 beef steers at a dosage of 6 mg/kg of body weight. Whole plasma and protein-free plasma were analyzed for phenylbutazone residues. Pharmacokinetic parameters of total and free phenylbutazone in plasma were calculated using a noncompartmental method. In regards to whole plasma data, the mean volume of distribution at steady state (Vss), was 140 mL/kg body weight, with a mean (±SEM) terminal elimination half-life (t1/2) of 34 ± 9 h. The mean clearance was 3.2 mL/h/kg body weight. The Vss, as determined from the protein-free plasma fraction, was 54093 mL/kg body weight. This larger Vss of free phenylbutazone compared with total plasma phenylbutazone was attributed to a high degree of plasma protein binding, as well as the greater penetration of free phenylbutazone into tissues. The mean t1/2 of free phenylbutazone was 35 ± 12 h. This similarity to the t1/2 estimated from total plasma phenylbutazone data is attributed to an equilibrium between free and plasma phenylbutazone during the terminal elimination phase. The pharmacokinetic parameters of free and total plasma phenylbutazone in beef steers are statistically similar to those previously reported for lactating dairy cows.
A social skills training program for preschoolers with developmental delays. Generalization and social validity.

This investigation was designed to assess a social skills training program with 32 developmen-tally delayed preschoolers. Subjects were evaluated in an unstructured play session, matched for levels of appropriate and inappropriate social behaviors, and assigned to either a treatment or control condition. The treatment group (N = 16) was presented with a 6-week protocol involving positive reinforcement, modeling, rehearsal, feedback, and time out. Controls (N = 16) received no instruction beyond regular classroom activities during the 6 weeks. The two groups were reevaluated in a posttest session and again in a generalization setting where two peers with developmental delays (not included in either experimental condition) were included. Prosocial behaviors were successfully taught and maintained in generalization settings. Efforts to reduce inappropriate behaviors were less successful. A test of social validity via teachers' ratings of videotapes of pretest and posttest assessments was also conducted. Impl...
Lysis of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii by high-intensity focused ultrasound as a function of exposure time.

Abstract Efficient lysis of microalgae for lipid extraction is an important concern when processing biofuels. Historically, ultrasound frequencies in the range of 10–40 kHz have been utilized for this task. However, greater efficiencies might be achievable if higher frequencies could be used. In our study, we evaluated the potential of using 1.1 MHz ultrasound to lyse microalgae for biofuel production while using Chlamydomonas reinhardtii as a model organism. The ultrasound was generated using a spherically focused transducer with a focal length of 6.34 cm and an active diameter of 6.36 cm driven by 20 cycle sine-wave tone bursts at a pulse repetition frequency of 2 kHz (3.6% duty cycle). The time-average acoustic power output was 26.2 W while the spatial-peak-pulse-average intensity (ISPPA) for each tone burst was 41 kW/cm2. The peak compressional and rarefactional pressures at the focus were 102 and 17 MPa, respectively. The exposure time was varied for the different cases in the experiments from 5 s to 9 min and cell lysis was assessed by quantifying the percentage of protein and chlorophyll release into the supernate as well as the lipid extractability. Free radical generation and lipid oxidation for the different ultrasound exposures were also determined. We found that there was a statistically significant increase in lipid extractability for all of the exposures compared to the control. The longer exposures also completely fragmented the cells releasing almost all of the protein and chlorophyll into the supernate. The cavitation activity did not significantly increase lipid oxidation while there was a minor trend of increased free radical production with increased ultrasound exposure.
Reduction of hepatic stearoyl-CoA desaturase activity in rats fed iron-deficient diets

The effect of feeding iron-deficient diets to rats on the hepatic stearoyl-CoA desaturase activity was examined since iron is present in the delta 9 desaturation system. Separate groups of rats were fed low iron diets without fat (FF-Fe) or containing either 14% hydrogenated coconut oil (HCNO-Fe) or 14% corn oil (CO-Fe) for 10 weeks. Diets supplemented with iron (FF + Fe, HCNO + Fe and CO + Fe) were fed to the corresponding control groups. Stearoyl-CoA desaturase activity in the liver microsomes of rats in the CO + Fe group (2.55 +/- 0.17 nmol oleate produced/min/mg protein) was about half of that in the HCNO + Fe (4.76 +/- 0.15) and FF + Fe (5.38 +/- 0.18) diet groups. In rats which were fed iron-deficient diets, hepatic desaturase levels were reduced significantly as compared to those of controls (1.0 +/- 0.06, CO-Fe; 2.11 +/- 0.13, HCNO-Fe; 3.65 +/- 0.1, FF-Fe). The hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) levels in blood showed moderate iron depletion only in the CO-Fe group. Hence, dietary polyunsaturated fat promotes the onset of iron deficiency. Furthermore, even before the blood Hb and Hct values express iron depletion, the effect of feeding low iron diets was observed by the reduction of hepatic delta 9 desaturase activity in rats fed HCNO-Fe and FF-Fe diets.
Intensity artifacts in gas phase FTIR spectroscopy: focus on the aperture

Two FTIR intensity artifacts are observed: 1) the warm annulus of the aperture seen by the detector resulted in distorted line shapes and intensities in the fingerprint region., and 2) light reflected off the aperture was double modulated by the interferometer producing a 2f alias. Corrections to remove these anomalies are discussed.
Reduction of vancomycin-resistant enterococcal infections by limitation of broad-spectrum cephalosporin use in a trauma and burn intensive care unit.

ABSTRACT—Both vancomycin and third-generation cephalosporin use are believed to contribute to a rise in vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) infections. In 1998, the largest number of VRE infections in our hospital occurred in the trauma/burn intensive care unit (TBICU), accounting for nearly 20%
Quantum interference in microwave multiphoton transitions.

We observe interference in the resonant microwave multiphoton transition probability between the 21s state and the 19,3 Stark state of K in a static field as a function of the duration and intensity of a microwave pulse at 9 GHz. The 19,3 state adiabatically connects to the 19f state in zero field. The ac Stark effect shifts the 21s state through a multiphoton resonance with the 19,3 Stark state during both the rising and falling edges of the microwave pulse. The transitions that occur during each traversal of the resonance lead to an interference in the net transition probability as a function of the relative phase accumulated by each state during the pulse. We measure both the frequency of the interference oscillations for different detunings from resonance and the amplitude of the fringes for different degrees of pulse asymmetry. The latter results are in complete agreement with the predictions of a Landau-Zener model for the resonance transitions.
Methylxanthines reversibly inhibit tracheary-element differentiation in suspension cultures of Zinnia elegans L.

Tracheary-element (TE) differentiation in suspension-cultured mesophyll cells of Zinnia elegans L. was completely inhibited by caffeine and theophylline only when these methylxanthines were applied at least 8 h prior to the appearance of secondary cell-wall thickenings. In contrast, the calcium-channel blocker nifedipine completely inhibited TE differentiation when applied only 2–3 h prior to the onset of secondary cell-wall deposition. This indicates the involvement of a methylxanthine-inhibitable event in TE differentiation that is distinguishable from an event dependent on influx of extracellular calcium. The correlation between the time of appearance of chlorotetracycline fluorescence (an indicator of sequestered Ca2+) and loss of methylxanthine effectiveness indicates that inhibition by methylxanthines may result from release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. Methylxanthines with high potencies against adenosine 3′ ∶ 5′-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) phosphodiesterase and adenosine receptors were less effective inhibitors of TE differentiation, indicating that inhibition of differentiation by methylxanthines is independent of cAMP metabolism. The role of cAMP in transduction of the cytokinin signal, which was proposed previously on the basis of stimulation of TE differentiation by theophylline, was investigated using the non-hydrolyzable analog 8-bromo-cAMP. Although 8-bromo-cAMP stimulated differentiation in the absence of inductive concentrations of cytokinin, the non-cyclic analog 8-bromo-AMP was even more effective, indicating that 8-bromo-cAMP behaves as a cytokinin analog, rather than a second messenger, in stimulating TE differentiation.
Conducting polymers in biomedical engineering

Conducting polymers (CPs) were first produced in the mid-1970s as a novel generation of organic materials that have both electrical and optical properties similar to those of metals and inorganic semiconductors, but which also exhibit the attractive properties associated with conventional polymers, such as ease of synthesis and flexibility in processing. The fact that several tissues are responsive to electrical fields and stimuli has made CPs attractive for a number of biological and medical applications. This review provides information on desirable CP properties specific to biomedical applications and how CPs have been optimized to generate these properties. The manuscript first introduces different types of CPs, their unique properties and their synthesis. Then specific information is provided on their modification for use in applications such as biosensors, tissue engineering, and neural probes. Although there remain many unanswered questions, particularly regarding the mechanisms by which electrical conduction through CPs affects cells, there is already compelling evidence to demonstrate the significant impact that CPs are starting to make in the biomedical field.
A New and Very Real Nursing Shortage

Current demographics of the nursing shortage are presented and discussed. Issues of this particular nursing crisis are explored relative to past nursing shortages. State and organizational response...
Multiscale reconstruction for computational spectral imaging

In this work we develop a spectral imaging system and associated reconstruction methods that have been designed to exploit the theory of compressive sensing. Recent work in this emerging field indicates that when the signal of interest is very sparse (i.e. zero-valued at most locations) or highly compressible in some basis, relatively few incoherent observations are necessary to reconstruct the most significant non-zero signal components. Conventionally, spectral imaging systems measure complete data cubes and are subject to performance limiting tradeoffs between spectral and spatial resolution. We achieve single-shot full 3D data cube estimates by using compressed sensing reconstruction methods to process observations collected using an innovative, real-time, dual-disperser spectral imager. The physical system contains a transmissive coding element located between a pair of matched dispersers, so that each pixel measurement is the coded projection of the spectrum in the corresponding spatial location in the spectral data cube. Using a novel multiscale representation of the spectral image data cube, we are able to accurately reconstruct 256×256×15 spectral image cubes using just 256×256 measurements.
Evaluation of Space Radiator Performance by Simulation of Infrared Emission

The total performance of a droplet space radiator has been predicted by simulation of infrared emission spectra. Emission spectra for a droplet are simulated with the use of exact optical theory from the optical constant spectra of a low-molecular-weight silicone, which is a candidate for use as an emission medium of the radiator. Emissive power and total emittance are calculated from the simulated emission spectra for a droplet at different temperatures. It is found that the fourth-power temperature dependence of the emissive power of the blackbody and the temperature dependence of the emissivity inherent to the materials govern the emissive power of the droplet. The progressive decreases in temperature of a droplet and a droplet sheet in space are also simulated. A droplet with a diameter of 1 μm is predicted to cool from 500 K to 252 K in two seconds. The effects of the size of a droplet and the number density of the droplets in the sheet on the cooling rate are estimated. A smaller droplet is essentia...
MMP-9 supplied by bone marrow-derived cells contributes to skin carcinogenesis

The matrix metalloproteinase MMP-9/gelatinase B is upregulated in angiogenic dysplasias and invasive cancers of the epidermis in a mouse model of multi-stage tumorigenesis elicited by HPV16 oncogenes. Transgenic mice lacking MMP-9 show reduced keratinocyte hyperproliferation at all neoplastic stages and a decreased incidence of invasive tumors. Yet those carcinomas that do arise in the absence of MMP-9 exhibit a greater loss of keratinocyte differentiation, indicative of a more aggressive and higher grade tumor. Notably, MMP-9 is predominantly expressed in neutrophils, macrophages, and mast cells, rather than in oncogene-positive neoplastic cells. Chimeric mice expressing MMP-9 only in cells of hematopoietic origin, produced by bone marrow transplantation, reconstitute the MMP-9-dependent contributions to squamous carcinogenesis. Thus, inflammatory cells can be coconspirators in carcinogenesis.
Urinary incontinence after multiple gestation and delivery: impact on quality of life.

An anonymous 77-item urogenital symptom questionnaire was administered to 769 women with a history of previous multifetal gestation and delivery, including long forms of the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ) and Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI). IIQ and UDI scores were analyzed using univariate and multivariate regression to determine the impact of incontinence on quality of life (QOL). Mean age was 37 years (22–75), and nearly half [49.8% (365)] reported at least one type of incontinence. Higher mean UDI scores were reported by women with stress incontinence (SI) (12.3 vs 4.7, p=0.0001), urge incontinence (UI) (14.9 vs 5.7, p=0.0001), and mixed incontinence (15.1 vs 6.2, p=0.0001) compared to continent women. Similarly, higher mean IIQ scores were associated with SI (6.9 vs 1.9, p=0.0001), UI (9.4 vs 2.2, p=0.0001), and mixed incontinence (9.3 vs 2.7, p=0.0001). In conclusion, among “mothers of multiples,” stress and urge urinary incontinence were associated with strongly adverse effects on QOL at a young age.
A detective story continued

In the article ‘Gregory's meridian line of 1673–74: a St Andrew's detective story’ (BSHM Bulletin, 23 (2008), 58–72), John C Amson referred to other important ecclesiastical meridian lines in the Duomo in Florence (1468), the Basilica of San Petronio in Bologna (1576), and in Santa Sophia in Constantinople (1437). Naturally a reader wonders why no mention is made of Rome. On a recent trip to Italy I decided to follow Amson's lead by taking a closer look at sites of mathematical interest in Florence and Rome.
Modeling of Corticosteroid Effects on Hepatic Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptors and Plasma Lipid Dynamics in Rats

Purpose This study examines methylprednisolone (MPL) effects on the dynamics of hepatic low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) mRNA and plasma lipids associated with increased risks for atherosclerosis.
Why some pool shots are more difficult than others

The physics behind the game of billiards is rather well understood as is our grasp of classical mechanics. We present here a mathematical explanation of why slice shots are more difficult than direct shots. Despite a large number of treatises dedicated to the study of physics of billiards, it appears that the simple explanation has escaped our attention until now. We show that high impact-parameter shots impart a larger angular spread to the object ball, compared to head-on shots. The effect can be understood in terms of a non-linear relationship between the impact parameter and the scattering angle, and the fact that a real-world pool player does not have a perfect cue ball control; in other words, the impact parameter distribution is not a delta function, but has a finite spread. To keep the mathematics simple and not to obscure the underlying physical principles our treatment ignores the ball’s spin, friction, and other well-known effects in the game of pool.
Effect of microwave radiometer inter-calibration on rainfall accumulation for the global precipitation measurement mission

The effect of inter-calibration on a Level 3 rainfall product for the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission is examined using two spaceborne microwave radiometers that are currently used to derive rain measurements, the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission Microwave Imager (TMI) and the Special Sensor Microwave/Imager (SSM/I). It is found that inter-calibrating the microwave radiometer brightness temperatures from the two instruments improves the agreement of the derived rain accumulations between the two radiometers. The average difference between TMI and F13 derived rain accumulations is 0.60 mm/day before inter-calibration is applied. This difference decreases to 0.08 mm/day when F13 is inter-calibrated to TMI.
Regulation of Lipoprotein Lipase by Protein Kinase Cα in 3T3-F442A Adipocytes *

Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) is an important enzyme in adipocyte and lipid metabolism with complex cellular regulation. Previous studies demonstrated an inhibition of LPL activity and synthesis following depletion of protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms with long term treatment of 3T3-F442A adipocytes with 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate. To identify the specific PKC isoforms involved, we treated cells with antisense oligonucleotides that block expression of specific PKC isoforms. An antisense oligonucleotide to PKCα inhibited LPL activity by 78 ± 8%, whereas antisense oligonucleotides directed against PKCδ or PKCe had no effect on LPL activity. The change in LPL activity was maximal at 72 h and was accompanied by a decrease in LPL protein and LPL synthetic rate but no change in LPL mRNA, suggesting regulation at the level of translation. However, PKC depletion resulted in no change in the polysome profile, indicating that translation initiation was not affected. However, the addition of cytoplasmic extracts from adipocytes treated with 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate or PKCα antisense oligomers inhibited LPL translation in vitro. This inhibition of LPL translation in vitro was lost when the LPL mRNA transcript did not contain nucleotides 1599–3200, thus implicating the 3′-untranslated region of LPL in the regulation of translation by PKC depletion. Both LPL activity and Raf1 activity were decreased in parallel following depletion of either total PKC or specific inhibition of PKCα. An antisense oligonucleotide to RAF1, which inhibited RAF1 activity, also inhibited LPL activity by 48 ± 10%, and this decrease in LPL activity was not accompanied by a change in LPL mRNA. Cells were treated with U0126, a specific inhibitor of the ERK-activating kinases MEK1 and MEK2. Although U0126 inhibited ERK1 and ERK2 phosphorylation, U0126 had no effect on LPL activity, indicating that MEK/ERK pathways were not involved in this mechanism of LPL regulation. Together, these data indicate that PKCα and RAF1 are important in the translational regulation of LPL in adipocytes and that the mechanism of regulation is probably through an ERK-independent pathway.
The Miraculous in the New Testament: Current Research and Issues

Defining the miraculous, the adequacy of the Western mindset to comprehend human experience, and the ability of the historian to establish the occurrence of a miracle, are issues threaded through study of the miraculous. Current work draws attention to our lack of understanding of the miraculous in the period. So far, research on Jesus has not explained his interest in miracles, their meaning, or how they relate to his other work and self-perception. Also, the nature miracles remain a problem, and a critical study of Jesus remains to be written that takes full account of the evidence of his miracles. More work needs to be done on Paul’s understanding of the miraculous. Further, despite studies on individual stories, insufficient work has been done on the miraculous from the perspective of the Gospel writers. Finally, how far early Christianity can be understood without due regard for the miraculous is open to question.
A Survey of Modern Language Teaching in the High Schools of the United States in 1938

Author's Summary— This survey shows what modern languages are being taught in the high schools of the different states. It includes the state eligibility requirements for modern language teachers, and gives the conditions governing the introduction of the study of a language into the curriculum.
A distributed control framework for performance management of virtualized computing environments

This paper develops a distributed cooperative control framework to manage the performance of virtualized computing environments. We consider a server cluster hosting multiple enterprise applications on a set of virtual machines (VMs) in which the system must dynamically optimize the CPU capacity provided to each VM in response to incoming workload intensity such that desired response times are satisfied. We solve the overall control/optimization problem by decomposing it into a set of smaller subproblems that can be solved cooperatively by individual controllers. Model-predictive controllers, implemented locally within each server, independently decide the CPU capacity to allocate to VMs under their control such that the overall system's performance goals are satisfied. We experimentally validate the proposed framework on a server cluster supporting three online services, showing that our scheme is highly scalable, naturally tolerates server failures, and allows for the dynamic addition/removal of servers during system operation without requiring changes to the overall control architecture.
Uncoverage: Toward a Signature Pedagogy for the History Survey

History professors say tbe darnedest tbings. Like tbe one wbo summed up bis teacbing pbilosopby declaring, "If I said it, tbat means tbey learned it!" Or tbe colleague wbo scoffed at "trendy" educational reforms because, as sbe put it, "You can't teacb students bow to tbink until you've taugbt tbem wbat to tbink." Tben tbere was tbe time an eminent bistorian rose to speak after my presentation on bow not to teacb tbe bistory survey. "I may be doing it wrong," conceded tbis gifted, award-winning teacber, "but I am doing it in tbe proper and customary way."' Tbe professor's droll remark points to wbere we stand today in tbe teacbing of bistory surveys, perbaps especially tbe U.S. bistory survey. Generations of undergraduates can testify tbat introductory surveys are taugbt in a "proper and customary way." "First you listen to a lecture, tben you read a textbook, tben you take a test," is bow a student described ber survey to me, adding, significantly, "It wasn't different, really, from my otber introductory courses." Here bistorians flirt witb calamity. Wben tbe only bistory course most people ever take from a professionally trained bistorian tempts students to believe tbere is little difference between bistory and sociology or bistory and biology except for tbe facts to be learned, it is not surprising tbat teacbers occasionally sense tbey migbt be "doing it wrong."^
Estrogen‐TGFβ cross‐talk in bone and other cell types: Role of TIEG, Runx2, and other transcription factors

It is well established that E(2) and TGFbeta have major biological effects in multiple tissues, including bone. The signaling pathways through which these two factors elicit their effects are well documented. However, the interaction between these two pathways and the potential consequences of cross-talk between E(2) and TGFbeta continue to be elucidated. In this prospectus, we present known and potential roles of TIEG, Runx2, and other transcription factors as important mediators of signaling between these two pathways.
12-Step Treatment for Alcohol and Substance Abuse Revisited: Best Available Evidence Suggests Lack of Effectiveness or Harm

Approaches incorporating 12-Step beliefs and practices have dominated substance abuse treatment despite a lack of empirical support. Recent claims for effectiveness relying on results from a large, multisite research project in the U.S. were re-evaluated based on critical analysis of design, methodology, and construction of outcome measures. Contrary to claims, experimental design did not allow comparison of effectiveness of 12-Step versus cognitive–behavioral interventions but does allow evaluation of outcome measures for a single treatment intervention infused with 12-Step beliefs and teachings. Corrected for design and methodological errors, results support estimated “remission” rates for alcohol abuse of at most 15–20% and for substance abuse of 0–15%. Elements inherent in 12-Step practices and beliefs, including step work, run counter to accepted counseling and therapeutic factors believed to predict positive outcomes. Lack of effectiveness or outcomes less beneficial than no treatment are thus not unexpected for courses of treatment infused with 12-Step elements.
Pathogenicity of 14 isolates of Phoma sclerotioides, causing brown root rot of alfalfa

Abstract Fourteen isolates of Phoma sclerotioides were compared for pathogenicity to alfalfa (Medicago sativa). Thirteen isolates obtained from roots of diseased alfalfa plants collected in Wyoming were compared with one isolate from the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC 56515) previously obtained from a diseased alfalfa root collected in Canada. Barley (Hordeum vulgare) grain inoculum of all 14 isolates was prepared and placed adjacent to the upper taproot of 4- to 6-month-old ‘Multi-plier’ alfalfa plants grown in Tall One Treepots (Stuewe & Sons, Corvallis, Ore.) containing a pasteurized soil-sand mixture. After inoculation, plants were placed outdoors in Laramie, Wyoming, USA, to undergo exposure to winter conditions previously reported to be essential for fungal infection. Bales of straw were placed around potted plants and loose straw was placed on top of plants for additional protection against winter injury. Each spring, plants were returned to the greenhouse and roots were given a disease rat...
The Role of NGOs in the International Human Rights System: A Case Study—IJM in Thailand

International human rights have been codified in a number of declarations and conventions, but these rights are not always enforced. This paper will examine the right to citizenship and the other essential rights linked to it. When national governments are unable or refuse to grant citizenship to a group of people it results in a violation of international human rights norms. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play a key role in enforcing human rights standards in three ways: first, NGOs with lawyers on staff can work through national legal systems to ensure that rights, such as citizenship, are granted. Second, NGOs can bring human rights violations to the attention of the general public in order to pressure national governments to take action. Third, the human rights violations can be brought to the attention of international organizations such as the UN to put pressure on the offending nation. This paper will explore how International Justice Mission implemented all three of these measures in order to influence the Thai government to grant citizenship to the Karen people, a hill tribe in northern Thailand. International Justice Mission’s efforts were successful in bringing international attention to the plight of the Karen as well as navigating the Thai legal system to assist in the citizenship process.
Autoimmune disorders in patients with hairy cell leukemia: are they more common than previously thought?

AbstractBackground:For a number of decades, hairy cell leukemia (HCL) has been linked with polyarthritis, vasculitis, symptomatic cytopenias and thrombosis in the medical literature. Notwithstanding, the significance of these associations has not been well understood. Therefore, we have decided to analyze them further.Methods:We provide herein a comprehensive literature review of the prevalence of autoimmune disorders in patients with HCL. Most relevant publications were identified through searching the PubMed/Medline database for articles published from inception to February 2014.Findings:Perhaps due to the rarity of HCL, scientific literature on autoimmune conditions in patients with HCL consists mainly of published case series and isolated reports. Our analysis identified increased prevalence of various autoimmune conditions in patients with HCL, including various vasculitides, immune cytopenias and antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS) among others.Conclusions:Presence of certain autoimmune disorde...