cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Potentiation of Insulin Secretion in Vitro by Serotonin Antagonists

The present studies were designed to determine if endogenous pancreatic islet cell monoamines such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine play a physiological role in controlling insulin secretion. With an in vitro rabbit pancreas system, the effects of both serotonin and catecholamine antagonists on basal and stimulated insulin release were studied. Methysergide maleate (Sansert) potentiated both glucose and tolbutamide-stimulated insulin secretion, but alone it had no effect on insulin release. Studies in which exogenous monoamines were added to the incubations demonstrated that methysergide, purported to be a specific serotonin antagonist, blocked inhibition of insulin secretion by dopamine, 1-norepinephrine, 1-epinephrine and 1-isoproterenol. Methysergide differed in action from the alpha adrenergic blocking drug, phenoxybenzamine, for although the latter was a more potent blocker of the inhibitory action of exogenous catecholamines on insulin secretion, it did not potentiate glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Glucose-mediated insulin secretion was also potentiated by the serotonin antagonists, cinanserin and cyproheptadine. Exogenous serotonin (4 × 10-3 M) had only a weak action in inhibiting insulin secretion from rabbit pancreas. Methysergide (1 × 10-4 M) failed to block this inhibitory action. It is suggested that (1) serotonin antagonists are blocking the inhibitory action of an intracellular compartmentalized serotonin pool, (2) some other endogenous indoleamine is the inhibitory substance that is being blocked by the serotonin antagonists, or (3) the three serotonin antagonists are influencing glucose-mediated insulin release through some unknown mechanism that has nothing to do with serotonin.
Clonal chromosomal abnormalities in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma

Chromosome analysis from stimulated and unstimulated lymphocytes of blood, skin, and lymph nodes demonstrated a clonal chromosomal abnormality in eight of 46 patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). Nonclonal abnormalities were found in nine other patients. Unstimulated lymph node cultures identified the highest proportion of clonal changes. Clonal changes were found most often in patients with advanced disease, and in patients who tested positive with a monoclonal antibody previously shown to detect the T-cells involved in CTCL. Analysis of the eight abnormal clones and seven others found before or since this consecutive series showed that identifiable changes involving the known sites of T-cell receptor genes on chromosomes #7 and #14 were not usually present. An association between CTCL and chromosome rearrangements of chromosome #10 is suggested both from our cases and those found in the literature. This observation is of interest because this chromosome contains the gene for the interleukin-2 receptor.
Novel pathways for glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes: focus on bile acid modulation

Type 2 diabetes is a common disorder with high risk of macrovascular and microvascular complications. These complications are largely driven by hyperglycaemia, dyslipidaemia and hypertension, for which aggressive treatment is thus warranted. Achieving and maintaining control of all three risk factors is especially difficult, however, and new therapeutic approaches could be useful. Bile acids have a well-established and important role in cholesterol homeostasis. Normally, their levels are maintained primarily by ileal reabsorption and enterohepatic recycling. Bile acid sequestrants bind bile acids in the intestine, reduce this recycling and deplete the bile acid pool, thereby stimulating use of hepatic cholesterol for bile acid synthesis, which leads to accelerated removal of LDL from the plasma and a decrease in LDL-cholesterol levels. Interestingly, recent evidence suggests that bile acid sequestrants can lower glucose levels to a clinically meaningful degree. This review presents this evidence and the possible mechanisms by which these glucose-lowering effects occur and discusses the apparently unique ability of bile acid sequestrants among lipid-lowering agents to significantly improve two cardiovascular risk factors, hyperglycaemia and dyslipidaemia. There is renewed interest in the use of bile acid sequestrants in individuals with type 2 diabetes, most of whom would benefit from additional reductions in both LDL-cholesterol and glycaemia.
Experimental algorithm for detecting damage applied to the I-40 bridge over the Rio Grande

An algorithm originally used to locate errors in finite element models is applied to a full scale bridge damage detection experiment. The method requires experimental frequency response function data measured at discrete locations along the major bridge load paths. In the bridge damage application the algorithm is most effective when applied to static flexibility shapes estimated with a truncated set of six mode shapes rather than individual mode shapes. The algorithm compares `before damage' and `after damage' data to locate physical areas where significant stiffness changes have occurred. A damage indicator shows whether damage is detectable. Damage is correctly located in the two most significant damage cases using the driving point static flexibility estimates. Limitations of the technique are addressed. The damage detection experiment was performed on a three span steel girder bridge that was 425 feet long. This bridge was part of Interstate 40 across the Rio Grande. The New Mexico State University Department of Civil Engineering organized the experiment. The frequency response functions were collected by Los Alamos National Laboratories personnel. The bridge excitation was provided by Sandia National Laboratories.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Herpes Simplex Virus Encephalitis in Children: Analysis of Cerebrospinal Fluid and Progressive Neurodevelopmental Deterioration

In this retrospective study of six patients (five infants and one child) with herpes simplex virus (HSV) encephalitis, we report the results of developmental evaluations and assays of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that were performed more than one month after the onset of disease. Two infants had recurrence or worsening of disease immediately after completing parenteral therapy. Two other infants had late developmental deterioration of previously attained abilities, which was associated with pleocytosis and/or elevation of the protein concentration in CSF during the year after acute HSV encephalitis. Three of the five infants had severe neurological and developmental impairment, and all of them had late CSF pleocytosis and/or elevated protein concentrations. Two infants were treated with oral acyclovir after completing parenteral therapy; they had mild neurological impairment and no further CSF abnormalities. Periodic activation of latent virus may be the cause of inflammatory responses of the CSF that lead to continued or intermittent neurological and developmental damage. Our data suggest that HSV encephalitis in infants may result in late persistent or recurrent disease of the central nervous system.
Memorable Messages From Fathers to Children Through Sports: Perspectives From Sons and Daughters

This study investigates memorable messages that sons and daughters report receiving from their fathers while actively or passively participating within the environment of sports. The premise was to examine the messages that fathers use with children and how this may relate to the relationship satisfaction of the sons and daughters later in life. Findings from the study indicate that fathers share messages with sons and daughters centered on five supra-types including effort, character traits, emphasis on physical skills/performance, attention on others and have fun.
3-octave Supercontinuum Generation and Sub-2-cycle Self-compression of Mid-IR Filaments in Dielectrics

We demonstrate more than 3-octave supercontinuum for the first time from ZnS in the normal dispersion regime and self-compression of the mid-IR pulse to sub-2-cycle for the first time in CaF2 in the anomalous dispersion regime.
A polymorphic (CA)n repeat element maps the human glucokinase gene (GCK) to chromosome 7p

A compound imperfect dinucleotide repeat element, [CA]4TTTGT[CT]7[CA]9AA[CA]4CCACATA[CA]3, was found approximately 10 kb 3' to the human glucokinase gene (GCK) from analysis of contiguous genomic DNA obtained from a bacteriophage lambda chromosome walk. Direct human genomic sequencing revealed the source of polymorphism to be variable numbers of CT and CA repeats. Altogether six alleles that range in length from +10 to -15 nucleotides compared to the most common (Z) allele have been identified. Alleles Z, Z + 2, and Z + 4 were present in American Blacks, Pima Indians, and Caucasians, with somewhat varied frequencies among the groups. Two alleles, Z + 10 and Z - 15, appear to be unique to American Blacks, while a Z + 6 allele was observed only in the Caucasian population studied. Observed heterozygosity of the polymorphism in the CEPH reference pedigree collection is 44% and the PIC 0.44. The polymorphism is assayed by PCR amplification and resolution of 32P-end-labeled products (ranging in length from 180 to 205 bp) on denaturing polyacrylamide sequencing gels. Using the PCR assay, the human glucokinase gene was physically localized to chromosome 7 in a panel of rodent/human somatic cell lines. Genetic analysis in CEPH pedigrees placed the dinucleotide repeat element, and thereby the human glucokinase gene, on chromosome 7p between TCRG and a RFLP locus D7S57. The glucokinase dinucleotide repeat genetic marker can now be used to assess the role of the glucokinase gene in diabetes by population association studies. In addition, this repeat marker and others flanking it on chromosome 7 can be used in linkage studies with families segregating the disorder.
The Primary Hyperoxalurias: An Algorithm for Diagnosis

Background/Aims: The primary hyperoxalurias (PHs) are inborn errors of metabolism resulting in increased urinary excretion of oxalate. Nephrolithiasis, nephrocalcinosis, and renal failure result. Renal failure can occur as early as infancy or as late as the sixth decade of life, and if not addressed promptly, results in severe morbidity and mortality related to systemic oxalate deposition (oxalosis). Clinicians are likely to encounter few PH patients during a practicing lifetime. Definitive diagnosis requires special studies performed in only a small number of laboratories worldwide. Accordingly, delays in diagnosis are common. Methods: An evidence-based guideline for diagnosis was developed. Results: Patients with stones or nephrocalcinosis in childhood, recurrent calcium oxalate stones in adulthood, or renal insufficiency associated with stones or nephrocalcinosis should be evaluated for PH. A systematic approach to measurement of urine oxalate, glycolate and glycerate, and plasma oxalate is provided. Age-related variation in urine oxalate requires attention to normal ranges. Molecular analysis for mutations of the AGXT gene (PH, type I) or GRHPR gene (PH, type II) is definitive in some patients, while liver enzyme analysis is required for confirmation of the diagnosis in the remainder. Conclusion: An evidence-based algorithm will facilitate recognition and diagnosis of patients with the PHs, permitting earlier treatment.
Messages About Weight Management: An Examination of How Acceptance and Challenge Are Related to Message Effectiveness

A confirmation perspective was employed to assess weight management messages individuals receive from significant others. Confirmation was conceptualized as having two components: acceptance and challenge. Both were hypothesized to predict message effectiveness. Study 1 explored types of weight management messages and how they varied in acceptance and challenge. Study 2 showed effective messages had higher acceptance and challenge than ineffective messages. Further, acceptance and challenge in hypothetical messages predicted perceived message effectiveness. Analyses also suggested adapting messages based on individual differences (e.g., preferences regarding communication) may be more efficacious in promoting healthy behaviors than adapting messages based on demographic characteristics.
Problems with employer-provided health insurance--the Employee Retirement Income Security Act and health care reform.

Health care reform is in the wind. As the nation prepares for a new presidential term, a more equitable and cost-effective health care system is beginning to sound inevitable.1 But the shape of tha...
Submerged undercut banks as macroinvertebrate habitat in a subalpine meadow stream

We compared macroinvertebrate samples from submerged undercut banks with samples from rifles and pools in a low-gradient-meadow reach of a small stream on the Snowy Range, southeastern Wyoming, from July to September 1985. Macroinvertebrates collected from submerged undercut banks were similar to those collected from riffles and pools, but densities varied among the three habitat types. In July Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera, Coleoptera, and Diptera, as well as Hydracarina, were all substantially more numerous in samples from undercut banks than from riffles or pools. By contrast in September little difference was observed in the abundance of macroinvertebrates in samples from submerged undercut banks, riffles and pools. While forming only 8.5% of the area of aquatic habitat within the study reach submerged undercut banks were estimated to contain 44% of the aquatic insects in July and 30% in August. Further, submerged undercut banks are macroinvertebrate habitat in this subalpine meadow stream, contributing to overall macroinvertebrate abundance and probably an additional food source for trout.
An asymptotically optimal layout for the shuffle—exchange graph

Abstract The shuffle—exchange graph is one of the best structures known for parallel computation. Among other things, a shuffle-exchange computer can be used to compute discrete Fourier transforms, multiply matrices, evaluate polynomials. perform permutations, and sort lists. The algorithms needed for these operations are quite simple and many require no more than logarithmic time and constant space per processor. An O( N 2 log 2 N)- area layout for the shuffle—exchange graph on a two-dimensional grid is described. The layout is the first which is known to achieve Thompson's asymptotic lower bound.
Review of"The industrial engineer and the data center by Volpel, John H." in Proc. AIIE 1974 Spring Annual Conf. (25th Annual Conf. and Convention, New Orleans, Louisiana, May 22-24, 1974), American Inst. of Industrial Engineers, Inc., Norcross, Georgia, 1974, 36-40

Missed deadlines and unsatisfactory first release systems continue to plague software developers after more than 20 years of experience. Increased availability of trained staff and the advent of adequate generative systems to produce known software items like language processors, etc., automatically have not, apparently, contributed to solving the problem. The orientation of this paper is that software planning remains an unknown skill for technical/administration groups. It points out three common errors in the way planning is generally carried out and relates planning failures to these fundamental errors.
The evolution of sheet-plasmon behavior in silver monolayers on Si(1 1 1)-(3×3)-Ag surface

Abstract The dispersion of sheet plasmons in two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) systems prepared on Si(1 1 1)-( 3 × 3 )-Ag surface was investigated by angle-resolved high-resolution electron-energy-loss spectroscopy (HREELS) in an in-situ ultrahigh vacuum environment. The evolution of dispersion at the low coverage of additional silver adatoms shows a behavior associating with two-dimensional adatom gas phase and the critical coverage to sustain this phase is also determined. Dispersion at higher coverage of additional silver adatoms features a gap opening in the long wavelength limit (momentum q → 0 ), suggesting a new mode of plasmon. A calculation based on the theory of surface plasmons implies this plasmon is 3D-type surface plasmon and reveals a smooth transition from a 2D sheet plasmon to a 3D surface plasmon.
The Carnegie Planet Finder Spectrograph: a status report

The Carnegie Planet Finder Spectrograph (PFS) has been constructed for use with the Magellan telescopes at Las Campanas Observatory in Chile. PFS has been optimized for high-precision measurement of stellar radial velocities in order to support an ongoing search for extrasolar planets. PFS uses an R4 echelle grating and a prism cross-disperser in a Littrow arrangement to provide complete wavelength coverage between 390 and 620 nm distributed across 58 orders. Spectral resolution is 38,000 when using a 1 arcsec slit. An iodine absorption cell is included in the pre-slit module to allow the superimposition of well-defined absorption features on the stellar spectra. To improve velocity stability, the echelle grating is enclosed in a small vacuum tank with the cross-dispersing prism acting as the vacuum window. The spectrograph is mounted on an invar optical bench that is surrounded by an insulated enclosure with circulating liquid temperature control. Fabrication and assembly have been completed, and testing will soon be underway. Delivery to Las Campanas Observatory is scheduled for late 2008.
The Molecular Epidemiology of Three Biotypes of Corynebacterium diphtheriae in the Seattle Outbreak, 1972–1982

Between 1972 and 1982 Seattle experienced a diphtheria outbreak involving 1,100 cases, primarily adults with cutaneous lesions. Biotyping revealed three consecutive overlapping outbreaks including 433 toxinogenic intermedius cases. Isolates from each quarter year were examined for DNA restriction fragment patterns and hybridization patterns with three DNA probes. All intermedius outbreak isolates appeared identical in all analyses and most stock cultures had the outbreak DNA fragment pattern, but DNA probes detected six patterns within 11 intermedius stock cultures. The mitis outbreak was heterogeneous, involving at least five restriction fragment patterns. In contrast, DNA restriction fragment analyses indicated that 22 of 25 gravis outbreak isolates belonged to a single strain, whereas there were seven strains within eight gravis stock cultures. DNA probe analyses of gravis outbreak isolates detected seven different patterns, five involving copy numbers of the toxB fragment and attB sites that presumably reflected lysogenic events that occurred during the outbreak.
Response Surface Methodology Models for Engine Mount Optimization in Motorcycles

This paper presents Response Surface Methodology (RSM) modeling techniques to solve the engine mount optimization problem for motorcycle applications. A theoretical model that represents the structural dynamics of the engine mount system in motorcycles is first used to build the RSM model. The RSM model is then used to solve the engine mount optimization problem to enhance vibration isolation. This leads to a substantial reduction in computational effort and simplifies the governing model, yielding an input-output relationship between the variables of interest. Design of Experiments (DOE) techniques are used to build the RSM model from the theoretical model. Full factorial and fractional factorial formulations are used to construct the governing experiments. Normal probability plots are used to determine the statistical significance of the resulting coefficients. The statistically significant variables are then used to build the response surface. The design variables for the engine mount optimization problem include mount stiffness, position and orientation vectors. The influence of the orientation variables is highly non-linear and is difficult to model by using a response surface consisting of lower order terms only. Two separate algorithms are proposed to overcome this problem and the results from the RSM models are compared to those from the theoretical model.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Thermodynamic Studies on the Equilibrium Properties of a Series of Recombinant βW37 Hemoglobin Mutants

In human hemoglobin (Hb) the beta37 tryptophan residue (betaW37), located at the hinge region of the alpha1beta2 interface, forms many contacts with alpha subunit residues of the opposite dimer, in both the T and R quaternary structures. We have carried out equilibrium O2 binding studies on a series of recombinant Hbs that have mutations at this residue site: betaW37Y, betaW37A, betaW37G, and betaW37E. Binding isotherms measured at high concentrations of these mutants were found to be shifted toward increased affinity and decreased cooperativity from that of the normal HbA0 tetramer. Analysis of these binding isotherms indicated that amino acid substitutions at the beta37 position could both destabilize the tetrameric form of the mutants relative to their constituent dimers and also alter cooperativity of the intact tetrameric species. These alterations from wild-type function are dependent on the particular side chain substituted, with the magnitude of change increasing as Trp is substituted by Tyr, Ala, Gly, and Glu. The dimer to tetramer assembly free energy of deoxy-betaW37E, the most perturbed mutant in the series, was measured using analytical gel chromatography to be 9 kcal/tetramer less favorable than that of deoxy HbA0. Stabilizing the betaW37E tetramer by addition of IHP, or by cross-linking at the alphaK99 positions, does not restore normal O2 binding behavior. Thermodynamic parameters of all the mutants were found to correlate with their CO binding rates and with their high-resolution X-ray crystal structures (see accompanying papers: Kwiatkowski et al. (1998) Biochemistry 37, 4325-4335; Peterson & Friedman (1998) Biochemistry 37, 4346-4357; Kavanaugh et al. (1998) Biochemistry 37, 4358-4373].
Combining in situ transmission electron microscopy irradiation experiments with cluster dynamics modeling to study nanoscale defect agglomeration in structural metals

Abstract We present a combinatorial approach that integrates state-of-the-art transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in situ irradiation experiments and high-performance computing techniques to study irradiation defect dynamics in metals. Here, we have studied the evolution of visible defect clusters in nanometer-thick molybdenum foils under 1 MeV krypton ion irradiation at 80 °C through both cluster dynamics modeling and in situ TEM experiments. The experimental details are reported elsewhere; we focus here on the details of model construction and comparing the model with the experiments. The model incorporates continuous production of point defects and/or small clusters, and the accompanying interactions, which include clustering, recombination and loss to the surfaces that result from the diffusion of the mobile defects. To account for the strong surface effect in thin TEM foils, the model includes one-dimensional spatial dependence along the foil depth, and explicitly treats the surfaces as black sinks. The rich amount of data (cluster number density and size distribution at a variety of foil thickness, irradiation dose and dose rate) offered by the advanced in situ experiments has allowed close comparisons with computer modeling and permitted significant validation and optimization of the model in terms of both physical model construct (damage production mode, identities of mobile defects) and parameterization (diffusivities of mobile defects). The optimized model exhibits good qualitative and quantitative agreement with the in situ TEM experiments. The combinatorial approach is expected to bring a unique opportunity for the study of radiation damage in structural materials.
The response of a selfish herd to an attack from outside the group perimeter.

According to the selfish herd hypothesis, animals can decrease predation risk by moving toward one another if the predator can appear anywhere and will attack the nearest target. Previous studies have shown that aggregations can form using simple movement rules designed to decrease each animal's Domain of Danger. However, if the predator attacks from outside the group's perimeter, these simple movement rules might not lead to aggregation. To test whether simple selfish movement rules would decrease predation risk for those situations when the predator attacks from outside the flock perimeter, we constructed a computer model that allowed flocks of 75 simulated fiddler crabs to react to one another, and to a predator attacking from 7 m away. We attacked simulated crab flocks with predators of different sizes and attack speeds, and computed relative predation risk after 120 time steps. Final trajectories showed flight toward the center of the flock, but curving away from the predator. Path curvature depended on the predator's size and approach speed. The average crab experienced a greater decrease in predation risk when the predator was small or slow moving. Regardless of the predator's size and speed, however, predation risk always decreased as long as crabs took their flock-mates into account. We conclude that, even when flight away from an external predator occurs, the selfish avoidance of danger can lead to aggregation.
The transfer of near ultraviolet irradiances through smog over los angeles

Abstract The composition of hydrocarbon smogs and the amount of near ultraviolet radiation within such smogs are interdependent. A model is presented which enables one to study the effect of smog composition on the transfer of ultraviolet irradiances. The irradiances are computed using Eddington's Approximation. A comparison between a series of radiometric measurements conducted in such a smog, and the irradiances computed using the model shows good agreement. The measurements are inverted to yield information on the composition of the smog. It is shown that the aerosols within the smog partially absorb radiation, namely that their single scattering albedo is 0.94 ± 0.05.
Cultivar Acceptance and Suitability for Preimaginal Development of the Strawberry Leafroller (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)

Preimaginal development and survival and female ovipositional responses of the strawberry leafroller, Ancylis comptana (Froelich), were similar on four commercial strawberry cultivars, Fragaria × Ananassa Duch. (‘Earliglow,’ ‘Honeoye,’ ‘Redcoat,’ and ‘Selva’) and wild strawberry, Fragaria virginiana Duch. All cultivars and F. virginiana were equally suitable for A. comptana preimaginal development. At 26°C and a photoperiod of 16:8 (L:D), developmental times ranged from 19.6 d on ‘Earliglow’ to 21.6 d on F. virginiana . Preimaginal survival ranged from 52% on ‘Redcoat’ to 68% on ‘Honeoye.’ No relationship was observed between ovipositional responses and trichome densities on the four cultivars and F. virginiana . In the laboratory, ‘Honeoye’ was slightly preferred by ovipositing females over ‘Earliglow,’ ‘Selva,’ and wild strawberry, but this preference was not apparent in field cage studies.
Tactile perception of sequentially presented spatial patterns

Tactile pattern recognition was studied by presenting pairs of alphabetic shapes in rapid succession at the same anatomical location, the subject being required on each trial to identify bath of the patterns. Experimental variables were the duration of each stimulus and the time between stimuli. Three aspects of the observed interaction were (1) an increase in letter reversals for very short interstimulus intervals; (2) a greater percentage of first-response errors for short-stimulus onset intervals and a greater percentage of second-response errors for long-stimulus onset intervals; and (3) a crossover in the first- and second-response error rates in the range of 100 to 200 msec. after the onset of the first stimulus. These results are consistent with some of the temporal properties of models proposed for analogous visual tasks.
Left Ventricular Activation Time in Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and in Left Bundle-Branch Block

Simultaneous tracings of right and left ventricular leads were taken in 6 dogs with experimentally produced left bundle-branch block, and in 30 clinical cases of left ventricular hypertrophy. In the experimental study it was found that the initial phase of the QRS complex in the right epicardial lead did not change its configuration or its duration after the production of left bundle-branch block. This observation offers a new concept of the septal and left ventricular activation in left bundle-branch block. It was concluded that a considerable portion of the left ventricle is activated normally in some cases of left bundle-branch block.
Mobilizing Self-Care Resources: A Nursing Intervention for Hypertension

This study was undertaken to assess the potential for mobilizing self-care resources in 10 persons with hypertension. Modeling and role-modeling theory provided the conceptual base for the experimental group. Ten persons with hypertension were matched with a comparison group. The results provide some evidence that theoretically sound nursing interventions can assist clients to mobilize self-care resources needed to enhance their well-being. Although further research with larger, randomly assigned samples is indicated, these findings suggest that nursing the person rather than the symptom might help people with hypertension contend with stressors, reduce stress, and deal with loss and grief.
Breast cancer cell apoptosis with phytoestrogens is dependent on an estrogen-deprived state.

Phytoestrogens have been investigated as natural alternatives to hormone replacement therapy and their potential as chemopreventive agents. We investigated the effects of equol, genistein, and coumestrol on cell growth in fully estrogenized MCF7 cells, simulating the perimenopausal state, and long-term estrogen-deprived MCF7:5C cells, which simulate the postmenopausal state of a woman after years of estrogen deprivation, and compared the effects with that of steroidal estrogens: 17β estradiol (E2) and equilin present in conjugated equine estrogen. Steroidal and phytoestrogens induce proliferation of MCF7 cells at physiologic concentrations but inhibit the growth and induce apoptosis of MCF7:5C cells. Although steroidal and phytoestrogens induce estrogen-responsive genes, their antiproliferative and apoptotic effects are mediated through the estrogen receptor. Knockdown of ERα using siRNA blocks all estrogen-induced apoptosis and growth inhibition. Phytoestrogens induce endoplasmic reticulum stress and inflammatory response stress–related genes in a comparable manner as the steroidal estrogens. Inhibition of inflammation using dexamethasone blocked both steroidal- and phytoestrogen-induced apoptosis and growth inhibition as well as their ability to induce apoptotic genes. Together, this suggests that phytoestrogens can potentially be used as chemopreventive agents in older postmenopausal women but caution should be exercised when used in conjunction with steroidal anti-inflammatory agents due to their antiapoptotic effects. Cancer Prev Res; 7(9); 939–49. ©2014 AACR .
A retinaldehyde dehydrogenase as a structural protein in a mammalian eye lens. Gene recruitment of eta-crystallin.

Abstract η-Crystallin is a taxon-specific crystallin, a major component of the eye lens in elephant shrews (Macroscelidea). Sequence analysis of η-crystallin from two genera of elephant shrews and expression of recombinant η-crystallin show that the protein is a cytoplasmic (class 1) aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH1, EC) with activity for the oxidation of retinaldehyde to retinoic acid. Unlike many other mammals, elephant shrews have two ALDH1 genes. One encodes ALDH1/η-crystallin which, in addition to its very high expression in lens, is also the predominant form of ALDH1 expressed in other parts of the eye. The second gene encodes a “non-lens” ALDH1 (ALDH1-nl) which is the predominant form expressed in liver. This pattern of tissue preference contrasts with other mammals which make use of the same major ALDH1 transcript in both ocular and non-ocular tissues. Thus the gene recruitment of ALDH1/η-crystallin as a structural protein in elephant shrew lenses is associated with its collateral recruitment as the major form of ALDH1 expressed in other parts of the eye.
Educating effective engineering designers: the role of reflective practice

Abstract Educating effective engineering designers is an important goal. Exploring the extent to which this goal is being met hinges on our ability to characterise what contributes to effectiveness and to map students’ performance against such standards. In previous work, we used verbal protocol analysis to analyse differences in the design processes of freshmen and seniors, the effects of interventions on student design processes, and process factors that contribute to product quality. In this paper, we utilise Schon’s reflective practitioner theory to discuss our empirical results in the context of educating reflective practitioners. Such an approach may provide implications for enhancing engineering education.
Detection of protein variation in human serum by externally released precipitins from the blue crab, Callinectes sapidus.

Abstract 1. 1. A number of invertebrate species releases precipitins into the environment. This process is apparently part of an externally directed immunologic system. 2. 2. A saline solution of precipitins released from the blue crab, Callinectes sapidus , provided a reagent that produced two different precipitation reactions with proteins from the sera of human individuals. 3. 3. One of the reaction variants was also detected with mammalian antiserum, the other was not. The former variant was associated with a medical condition: hypergammaglobulinemia. 4. 4. Saline reagents from different invertebrate species may prove useful in clinical diagnosis and for revealing new human protein polymorphisms.
SERPIN regulation of factor XIa. The novel observation that protease nexin 1 in the presence of heparin is a more potent inhibitor of factor XIa than C1 inhibitor.

Abstract In the present studies we have made the novel observation that protease nexin 1 (PN1), a member of theserine protease inhibitor (SERPIN) superfamily, is a potent inhibitor of the blood coagulation Factor XIa (FXIa). The inhibitory complexes formed between PN1 and FXIa are stable when subjected to reducing agents, SDS, and boiling, a characteristic of the acyl linkage formed between SERPINs and their cognate proteases. Using a sensitive fluorescence-quenched peptide substrate, theK assoc of PN1 for FXIa was determined to be 7.9 × 104 m − 1s− 1 in the absence of heparin. In the presence of heparin, this rate was accelerated to 1.7 × 106, M− 1 s− 1, making PN1 a far better inhibitor of FXIa than C1 inhibitor, which is the only other SERPIN known to significantly inhibit FXIa. FXIa-PN1 complexes are shown to be internalized and degraded by human fibroblasts, most likely via the low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP), since degradation was strongly inhibited by the LRP agonist, receptor-associated protein. Since FXIa proteolytically modifies the amyloid precursor protein, this observation may suggest an accessory role for PN1 in the pathobiogenesis of Alzheimer's disease.
Association between Cytokine Gene Polymorphisms and Risk for Upper Respiratory Tract Infection and Acute Otitis Media

BACKGROUND We previously reported an association between tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha)(-308)and interleukin (IL)-6(-174) polymorphisms and otitis susceptibility by history. Acute otitis media occurs most commonly as a complication of upper respiratory tract infection (URI); it is not clear why some children develop acute otitis media after URI and others do not. Our objective was to prospectively evaluate the association of TNFalpha(-308)and IL-6(-174) polymorphisms with URI and with acute otitis media development after URI. METHODS Children aged 6-35 months were prospectively followed for occurrences of URI and acute otitis media. Blood or buccal mucosa samples were collected for DNA extraction to determine cytokine genotypes. Active and passive surveillance was used to capture all URI episodes during the 1-year follow-up period in order to study the rate of acute otitis media following URI. Data were analyzed using SAS software (SAS Institute) and general estimating equations modeling. RESULTS Two hundred forty-two children were followed over 2689 patient-months and had DNA genotyped; 1235 URI episodes occurred, and 392 (32%) were complicated by acute otitis media. Children who had IL-6(-174) polymorphism had a higher susceptibility to URI during the study period (incidence density ratio, 1.24) and were more likely to meet established otitis susceptibility criteria (P < .01). Presence of TNFalpha(-308) polymorphism was associated with increased risk for acute otitis media after an episode of URI (odds ratio, 1.43). CONCLUSIONS TNFalpha(-308) and IL-6(-174) genotypes are associated with increased risk for symptomatic URI and acute otitis media following URI. Future studies may be designed to carefully look at the interaction of these genetic polymorphisms with modifiable environmental risk factors.
Carbon and oxygen isotope variations in precambrian cherts

Abstract Isotopic compositions of O in bulk Precambrian cherts and of C in the insoluble organic matter trapped in the silica have been determined. A general negative correlation relates these two variables and indicates that postdepositional alteration may have markedly modified the pristine isotopic ratios of the C compounds and their hosts. This interpretation is in good agreement with the expected isotopic trends for C and O resulting from secondary geological thermal events. Based on this correlation, a maximum δ13C value of ca. − 33%. PDB is proposed for the Precambrian kerogen. The difference between Proterozoic and Phanerozoic (−27%.) δ13C values could be linked to the flowering of life at the end of the Precambrian.
Dispersion coefficients for the nP-nP asymptote of homonuclear alkali-metal dimers

The derivation of the dispersion coefficients for various symmetries of the lower $\mathrm{nP}$-$\mathrm{nP}$ asymptote of the homonuclear alkali-metal dimers is presented. Using the perturbation theory the dispersion coefficients ${C}_{5}$ are obtained in the first order and the ${C}_{6}$ and ${C}_{8}$ coefficients are obtained in the second order in terms of double sums involving atomic radial matrix elements. The sums are separated in individual contributions of each atom by using a complex integral representation. The atomic matrix elements involving Green's functions are evaluated using the Dalgarno-Lewis method. Numerical results for the ${C}_{5}$, ${C}_{6}$, and ${C}_{8}$ dispersion coefficients for Li, Na, K, Rb, and Cs dimers are presented.
Native-defect-controlled n-type conductivity in InN

Abstract High-energy particle irradiation has been shown previously to be a method for n-type doping of InN. Here we irradiated InN with H + and He + particles to study the dependence of the electron mobility on electron concentrations varying from mid-10 18 to mid-10 20 cm −3 . We find that the electron mobility is limited by scattering from the ionized defects created by irradiation, resulting in a strong correlation between mobility and electron concentration. Furthermore, our calculations suggest that the radiation-induced defects may be triply charged donors.
Superior laryngeal nerve monitoring using laryngeal surface electrodes and intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring during thyroidectomy.

The objective of this study is to establish normative waveform data for the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve (SLN) utilizing laryngeal surface electrodes and intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) in conjunction with a clinical neurophysiologist. A retrospective chart review of 91 consecutive at-risk SLN were identified in 51 patients in whom IONM using laryngeal surface electrodes was performed by a clinical neurophysiologist using Dragonfly (Neurovision Medical Products, Ventura, CA) recording electrodes and a Protektor (Natus Medical Inc., San Carlos, CA)16 channel- intraoperative nerve monitoring system. Inclusion criteria were met for 30 SLN. Data collected included preoperative diagnosis, surgical procedure, rates of nerve identification and stimulation, and waveform characteristics. Waveform analysis for 30 SLN yielded a peak latency of 4.0 ± 0.2 ms, onset latency 2.3 ± 0.1 ms, peak-to-peak amplitude of 220.4 ± 31.1 µV, onset-to-peak amplitude of 186.0 ± 25.0 µV, and stimulation current threshold of 0.55 ± 0.03 mA (data = mean ± SEM). Two patients had abnormal SLN function documented clinically on postoperative laryngoscopic examination. Laryngeal surface electrodes were successfully utilized to identify and monitor SLN function intraoperatively. IONM using laryngeal surface electrodes enables analysis of waveform morphology and latency in addition to threshold and amplitude data obtained with the traditional NIM system, potentially improving the performance of nerve monitoring during thyroid surgery. Clin. Anat. 28:460–466, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
ASK-BAN: authenticated secret key extraction utilizing channel characteristics for body area networks

Recently there has been an increasing interest on bootstrapping security for wireless networks merely using physical layer characteristics. In particular, the focus has been on two fundamental security issues - device authentication and secret key extraction. While most existing works emphasize on tackling the two issues separately, it remains an open problem to simultaneously achieve device authentication and fast secret key extraction merely using wireless physical layer characteristics, without the help of advanced hardware or out-of-band channel.In this paper, for the first time, we answer this open problem in the setting of Wireless Body Area Networks (BANs). We propose ASK-BAN, a lightweight fast authenticated secret key extraction scheme for intra-BAN communication. Our scheme neither introduces any advanced hardware nor relies on out-of-band channels. To perform device authentication and fast secret key extraction at the same time, we exploit the heterogeneous channel characteristics among the collection of on-body channels during body motion. Specifically, with simple body movements, channel variations between line-of-sight on-body devices are relatively stable while those for non-line-of-sight devices are unstable. ASK-BAN utilizes the relatively static channels for device authentication and the dynamic ones for secret key generation. On one hand, ASK-BAN achieves authentication through multi-hop stable channels, which greatly reduces the false positive rate as compared to existing work. On the other hand, based on dynamic channels, the key extraction process between two on-body devices with multi-hop relay nodes is modeled as a max-flow problem, and a novel collaborative secret key generation algorithm is introduced to maximize the key generation rate. Extensive real-world experiments on low-end COTS sensor devices validate that ASK-BAN has a high secret key generation rate while being able to authenticate body devices effectively.
Site-Specific Fluorescent Labeling of Estrogen Receptors and Structure–Activity Relationships of Ligands in Terms of Receptor Dimer Stability

Publisher Summary The estrogen receptor (ER) is a ligand-regulated transcription factor that belongs to the nuclear receptor (NR) superfamily and acts as a dimeric species. There are two subtypes of ER—ERα and ERβ—which are both mainly regulated by the endogenous estrogen—estradiol (E2). ER modulation is involved in the development and regulation of reproductive, cardiovascular, and bone health, in addition to controlling the various aspects of cognitive function. Ligands that bind to the ER can be categorized into three pharmacological classes: agonists, mixed agonist—antagonists, and pure antagonists. The mixed agonist–antagonists are also referred to as “selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs)” because of their tissue-selective agonist or antagonist activities. Nuclear receptors (NRs) form strong dimers that are essential for their functioning as transcription factors. NRs that bind steroid ligands (i.e., ER) typically function as dimers, either homodimers between identical receptor monomers or between closely related subtypes. NRs that bind nonsteroidal ligands, however, typically function as heterodimers with the retinoid X receptor (RXR). Using ﬂuorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and fluorescent-labeled ERα-LBDs, the regulation of homodimer stability by ligands and coactivator peptides is monitored. This technique provides structure–activity relationships (SARs) of ligands in terms of ER dimer stability and can be used as a functional assay to identify the pharmacological character of novel synthetic or environmental ER ligands. Fluorescent-labeled ERβ-LBDs can be used to study homo- and heterodimers of both ER subtypes and the manner in which SERMs and ER subtype-selective ligands (both agonists and antagonists) modulate differential homo- and heterodimer stability. Site-specific fluorescent ERs can also be used for the development of other types of assays to characterize receptor conformation, conformational dynamics, and ligand or coregulator interactions.
Quantifying Locality In The Memory Access Patterns of HPC Applications

Several benchmarks for measuring the memory performance of HPC systems along dimensions of spatial and temporal memory locality have recently been proposed. However, little is understood about the relationships of these benchmarks to real applications and to each other. We propose a methodology for producing architecture-neutral characterizations of the spatial and temporal locality exhibited by the memory access patterns of applications. We demonstrate that the results track intuitive notions of locality on several synthetic and application benchmarks. We employ the methodology to analyze the memory performance components of the HPC Challenge Benchmarks, the Apex-MAP benchmark, and their relationships to each other and other benchmarks and applications. We show that this analysis can be used to both increase understanding of the benchmarks and enhance their usefulness by mapping them, along with applications, to a 2-D space along axes of spatial and temporal locality.
A fault-tolerant network architecture for integrated avionics

The Army fault-tolerant architecture (AFTA) under construction at the Charles Stark Draper Laboratory is an example of a highly integrated critical avionics system. The AFTA system must connect to other redundant and nonredundant systems, as well as to input/output devices. A fault-tolerant data bus (FTDB) for highly reliable communication between the AFTA computer and other network stations is described. The FTDB is designed for Byzantine resilience and is probably capable of tolerating any single arbitrary fault. The author describes a prototype architecture for the fault-tolerant data bus. >