cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electrophilic reactivity of the Busulfan metabolite, EdAG, towards cellular thiols and inhibition of human thioredoxin-1.

Abstract Busulfan is an alkylating agent used in chemotherapy conditioning regimens prior to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). However, its administration is associated with a great risk of adverse toxicities, which have been historically attributed to busulfan’s mechanism of non-specific DNA alkylation. A phase II generated metabolite of busulfan, EdAG (γ-glutamyldehydroalanylglycine), is a dehydroalanine analog of glutathione (GSH) with an electrophilic moiety, suggesting it may bind to proteins and disrupt biological function. However, EdAG’s reactions with common cellular thiols such as glutathione (GSH) and l -cysteine are understudied, along with possible inhibition of glutathionylation-dependent enzymes (with active site cysteine residues). We established a physiologically-relevant in vitro model to readily measure thiol loss over time. Using this model, we compared the apparent rates of thiol depletion in the presence of EdAG or arecoline, a toxic constituent of the areca (betel) nut and known GSH depletor. Simulated kinetic modeling revealed that the mean (±SE) alpha (α) second order rate constants describing GSH and l -cysteine depletion in the presence of EdAG were 0.00522 (0.00845) μM−1∙min−1 and 0.0207 (0.00721) μM−1∙min−1, respectively; in the presence of arecoline, the apparent rates of depletion were 0.0619 (0.009) μM−1∙min−1 and 0.2834 (0.0637) μM−1∙min−1 for GSH and l -cysteine, respectively. Under these experimental conditions, we conclude that EdAG was a weaker electrophile than arecoline. Arecoline and EdAG both depleted apparent l -cysteine concentrations to a much greater extent than GSH, approximately 4.58-fold and 3.97-fold change greater, respectively. EdAG modestly inhibited (∼20%) the human thioredoxin-1 (hTrx-1) catalyzed reduction of insulin with a mean IC50 of 93 μM [95% CI: 78.6–110 μM). In summary, EdAG’s ability to spontaneously react with endogenous thiols and inhibit hTrx-1 are potentially biochemically relevant in humans. These findings continue to support the growing concept that EdAG, an underrecognized phase II metabolite of busulfan, plays a role in untoward cellular toxicities during busulfan pharmacotherapy.
When Should the First Amendment Protect Judges from Their Unethical Speech

Judges harm the judicial institution when they engage in inflammatory or overtly political extrajudicial speech. The judiciary can be effective only when it has the trust of the citizenry, and judicial statements of that sort render it impossible for citizens to see judges as neutral and contemplative arbiters. This lack of confidence would seem especially dangerous in times like these, when the citizenry is as polarized as it has ever been. Ethical codes across the country (based on the Model Code of Judicial Conduct) prohibit judges from making these partisan, prejudicial or otherwise improper remarks. Any discipline can be undone, however, if a court finds the discipline in violation of the First Amendment. Many courts have not even recognized this, and others have been confused about the proper First Amendment analysis to apply. Because the ethical code restrictions on speech are content-based, they would ordinarily receive strict scrutiny. But the great harm that judges’ unethical speech can pose warrants granting the state greater discretion in the disciplinary process. Specifically, the free speech rights of judges facing discipline for unethical extrajudicial speech should be subject not to strict scrutiny, but to the doctrine applied to public employees in Pickering v. Board of Education. Under Pickering, extrajudicial speech that does not involve a matter of public concern — such as racist or sexually harassing remarks — would not be protected at all. Extrajudicial speech that does involve a matter of public concern would have the court balance the judge’s interest in speaking against the state’s interest in prohibiting the speech. Additionally, a presumption of validity would accompany any ethical code provision that provided notice to judges in advance specifically what they are not to say and why.
Clinical Prognosticators of Metastatic Potential in Patients with Small Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors.

While observation of T1(≤2cm) nonfunctioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NF-PanNETs) is an accepted practice, an ill-defined subgroup of patients with T1 tumors develops metastases. This study aimed to identify those patients via clinical factors. Patients from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registry who were diagnosed with NF-PanNET with size ≤2cm between 1998 and 2014 and who underwent primary tumor resection were identified. Binary logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate factors associated with pathological nodal and systemic metastatic disease. A total of 612 patients with T1 NF-PanNETs were identified. Of those, 72 (11.7%) developed nodal metastasis and 35 (5.7%) distant metastasis (M1). In the multivariable analysis, tumor location in the pancreatic body (OR 1.903, p=0.03) (OR 1.407, p=0.038) or tail (OR 1.258, p=0.04) (OR 1.612, p=0.021); tumor grade III–IV (OR 2.042, p=0.022) (OR 5.379, p≤0.001); and younger age (OR 0.963, p=0.01) (OR 0.919, p=0.009) were associated with nodal metastases and the presence of M1 disease, respectively. While the low metastatic potential of ≤2cm NF-PanNET implies watchful waiting to be an appropriate strategy for most patients, the increased risk of metastatic disease in younger patients with high grade (III–IV) body/tail tumors suggests individualized risk stratification to be optimal.
Free strain gradient reversal of a variable recruitment fluidic artificial muscle bundle

This paper investigates the effect of resistive forces that arise in compressed fluidic artificial muscles (FAMs) within a variable recruitment bundle. Much like our skeletal muscle organs that selectively recruit different number of motor fibers depending on the load demand, a variable recruitment FAM bundle adaptively activates the minimum number of motor units (MUs) to increase its overall efficiency. A variable recruitment bundle may operate in different recruitment states (RSs) during which only a subset of the FAMs within a bundle are activated. In such cases, a difference in strain occurs between active FAMs and inactive/low-pressure FAMs. This strain difference results in the compression of inactive/lowpressure FAMs causing them to exert a resistive force opposing the force output of active FAMs. This paper presents experimental measurements for a FAM for both tensile and compressive regions. The data is used to simulate the overall force-strain space of a variable recruitment bundle for when resistive force effects are neglected and when they are included. Counterintuitively, an initial decrease in bundle free strain is observed when a transition to a higher RS is made due to the presence of resistive forces. We call this phenomenon the free strain gradient reversal of a variable recruitment bundle. The paper is concluded with a discussion of the implications of this phenomenon.
Multiplexed Screening of Population-level Synthetic Gene Oscillator Libraries

Directed evolution has become an invaluable tool in protein engineering and has also greatly influenced the construction of synthetic gene circuits. The ability to generate diversity at precise targets for directed evolution approaches has improved vastly, allowing researchers to create large, specific mutant libraries with relative ease. Screening approaches for large mutant libraries have similarly come a long way, especially when the desired behavior can easily be tested for with static, single time-point assays. For more complex gene circuits with dynamic phenotypes that change over time, directed evolution approaches to controlling and tuning circuit behavior have been hindered by the lack of sufficiently high-throughput screening methods to isolate variants with desired characteristics. Here we utilize directed mutagenesis and multiplexed microfluidics to develop a workflow for creating, screening and tuning dynamic gene circuits that operate at the population level. Specifically, we create a mutant library of an existing oscillator, the synchronized lysis circuit, and tune its dynamics while uncovering principles regarding its behavior. Lastly, we utilize this directed evolution workflow to construct a new synchronized genetic oscillator that exhibits robust dynamics over long time scales.
Line-drawing and Legal Education

Law professors love to ask: “Where do you draw the line?” This essay offers a guide to what is in play when professors ask their favorite question. It identifies the assumptions about legal education and the legal system that lead professors to see line-drawing as important. It explores why students may see line-drawing as superficial and small-minded. And it concludes with practical tips for students on how to respond when professors ask them where they would draw the line.
Crash analysis and development of safety performance functions for Florida roads in the framework of the context classification system.

Abstract Introduction: Safety performance functions (SPF) are employed to predict crash counts at the different roadway elements. Several SPFs were developed for the various roadway elements based on different classifications such as functional classification and area type. Since a more detailed classification of roadway elements leads to more accurate crash predictions, multiple states have developed new classification systems to classify roads based on a comprehensive classification. In Florida, the new roadway context classification system incorporates geographic, demographic, and road characteristics information. Method: In this study, SPFs were developed in the framework of the FDOT roadway context classification system at three levels of modeling, context classification (CC-SPFs), area type (AT-SPFs), and statewide (SW-SPF) levels. Crash and traffic data from 2015-2019 were obtained. Road characteristics and road environment information have also been gathered along Florida roads for the SPF development. Results: The developed SPFs showed that there are several variables that influence the frequency of crashes, such as annual average daily traffic (AADT), signalized intersections and access point densities, speed limit, and shoulder width. However, there are other variables that did not have an influence in crash occurrence such as concrete surface and the presence of bicycle slots. CC-SPFs had the best performance among others. Moreover, network screening to determine the most problematic road segments has been accomplished. The results of the network screening indicated that the most problematic roads in Florida are the suburban commercial and the urban general roads. Practical Applications: This research provides a solid reference for decision-makers regarding crash prediction and safety improvement along Florida roads.
Traumatic Brain Injury and Psychopathic Features Among Juvenile Offenders: Does it Matter Which Traits?

Psychopathic traits and a history of traumatic brain injury (TBI) are common among imprisoned individuals. Although previous research has examined correlates of TBI among juvenile offenders, little...
Post-operative Complication Rate Comparison Between Airway Surgery and Upper Airway Stimulation Using NSQIP and ADHERE:

ObjectivePostoperative complication rates were compared between obstructive sleep apnea surgery (OSAS) and hypoglossal nerve upper airway stimulation (UAS).Study DesignCohort.SettingMulti-instituti...
Metaphysics, Natural Science and Theological Claims:

In this paper, I aim to discuss E. J. Lowe's view of the synergy between metaphysics and natural science. In doing so, I will extend Lowe’s synergistic model to develop a realist account of theological claims thereby responding to Byrne’s strong form of eliminativism and agnosticism about theological claims. The paper is divided up as follows. In section 1, I will discuss Lowe’s view of metaphysics. In section 2, I will explain how Lowe thinks metaphysics and natural science are related. In section 3, I will respond to objections against Lowe’s conception of metaphysics. In section 4, I will discuss the implications of Lowe’s conception of metaphysics for a realist account of theological claims. In section 5, I will conclude this paper by claiming that there are excellent reasons to extend the synergy between metaphysics and natural science to that of theology as well.
Material based dynamic increase factor models for UHP-FRC under compression and tension

Abstract Ultra-high performance fiber reinforced concretes (UHP-FRC) exhibit strain rate sensitivity when subjected to dynamic loadings. In recent years, concerns have been raised among researchers that structural effects, such as lateral inertial confinement and frictional confinement at the specimen’s face, could contribute to the strain rate sensitivity under high strain-rate testing using a split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) besides material inherent property. The enhanced material strength by structural effect is often misinterpreted as material strain rate effect, and hence overestimating the material’s dynamic increase factor (DIF). If the overestimated DIF is used in numerical simulations, and some constitutive models have already adopted such overestimated DIF, the structural effects will be double-counted and misinterpreted as material property, leading to overestimated material resistance. To the best knowledge of the authors, there exists (1) no empirical equations for the nominal DIF models of UHP-FRC, which is directly obtained from experimental tests with structural effect; (2) no material based DIF models of UHP-FRC, which consider isolating structural effects. In this paper, based on the authors’ previous research on isolation of structural effects of UHP-FRC subjected to dynamic loadings, material based DIF models of UHP-FRC under compression and tension are proposed.
EXPRESSION IN ESCHERICHIA COLI OF THE THERMOSTABLE DNA POLYMERASE FROM PYROCOCCUS FURIOSUS

Pfu, the DNA polymerase from Pyrococcus furiosus, has the lowest error rate of any known polymerase in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. Previously the protein has been purified from P. furiosus bacterial cultures, and a recombinant form has been produced in a baculovirus system. We have produced a pET plasmid for expression of Pfu in Escherichia coli (the expression plasmid pETpfu is available from ATCC, Accession No. 87496) and found that this plasmid is toxic or unstable in the expressing strain BL21(DE3), even in the absence of induction. However, the plasmid was stable in BL21(DE3) containing the pLysS plasmid, which suppresses expression prior to induction, and a 90-kDa protein was expressed upon addition of isopropyl beta-D-thiogalactopyranoside. The protein was purified by heating (to denature E. coli proteins), followed by chromatography on P11 phosphocellulose and mono Q columns. The purified protein had the same activity as the commercially obtained baculovirus-expressed Pfu in both DNA polymerase and PCR reactions. This bacterial expression system appears to be the method of choice for production of Pfu.
Cloning and regulation of cornifin beta, a new member of the cornifin/spr family. Suppression by retinoic acid receptor-selective retinoids.

In this study, we describe the isolation and characterization of a cDNA clone C12 that encodes a new member of the cornifin/small proline-rich protein (spr) family, which we have named cornifin β. C12 encodes a 1.1-kilobase pair mRNA and a 24.3-kDa cytosolic protein with a high proline content (19%). Its total amino acid sequence exhibits a 37-66% identity while the first 30 amino acids at the amino terminus are 87% identical to that of members of the cornifin family. At its carboxyl terminus, cornifin β contains 21 tandem repeats of an octapeptide. Cornifin β expression is restricted to several squamous epithelia. It is highly expressed in esophagus, tongue, and oral mucosa but, in contrast to cornifin α, is not detectable in the epidermis. Both retinoic acid and a retinoid selective for the nuclear retinoic acid receptors were very potent suppressors of cornifin β expression while an analog selective for the nuclear retinoid X receptors was much less effective, suggesting that a specific retinoid signaling pathway is involved in this suppression. Cornifin β can function through some of its Gln residues as an amine acceptor in transglutaminase-catalyzed cross-linking reactions. These results indicate that cornifin β functions as a cross-linked envelope precursor.
Sterol metabolism. 18. On the uniqueness of the occurrence of 26-hydroxycholesterol in the human aorta.

Abstract 26-Hydroxycholesterol known to accumulate in the human aorta does not occur in a variety of other human tissues, nor does the sterol occur in aortal tissues of the baboon, the White Carneau pigeon, and a variety of domestic animals. Induction of aortal lesions in the white rabbit by cholesterol feeding, by injections of epinephrine and thyroxine, or by infusions of norepinephrine was not accompanied by a demonstrable accumulation of 26-hydroxycholesterol in the aortal tissues.
Improve Charging Capability for Wireless Rechargeable Sensor Networks Using Resonant Repeaters

Wireless charging has provided a convenient alternative to renew sensors' energy in wireless sensor networks. Due to physical limitations, previous works have only considered recharging a single node at a time, which has limited efficiency and scalability. Recent advance on multi-hop wireless charging is gaining momentum to provide fundamental support to address this problem. However, existing single-node charging designs do not consider and cannot take advantage of such opportunities. In this paper, we propose a new framework to enable multi-hop wireless charging using resonant repeaters. First, we present a realistic model that accounts for detailed physical factors to calculate charging efficiencies. Second, to achieve balance between energy efficiency and data latency, we propose a hybrid data gathering strategy that combines static and mobile data gathering to overcome their respective drawbacks and provide theoretical analysis. Then we formulate multi-hop recharge schedule into a bi-objective NP-hard optimization problem. We propose a two-step approximation algorithm that first finds the minimum charging cost and then calculates the charging vehicles' moving costs with bounded approximation ratios. Finally, upon discovering more room to reduce the total system cost, we develop a post-optimization algorithm that iteratively adds more stopping locations for charging vehicles to further improve the results. Our extensive simulations show that the proposed algorithms can handle dynamic energy demands effectively, and can cover at least three times of nodes and reduce service interruption time by an order of magnitude compared to the single-node charging scheme.
The Effect of Dust Evolution on the Spectral Energy Distribution of Galaxies

The spectral energy distribution of galaxies is strongly affected by the abundance, composition, and size distribution of their dust content. In addition, the morphology of a galaxy and the clumpiness of its interstellar medium play a crucial role in the attenuation of starlight and in its conversion to infrared emission. In this contribution we present simple models for the evolution of dust in normal spiral galaxies and pristine starburst regions, and examine how the dust affects the attenuation and spectral energy distribution of these systems.
Supernovae and the Interstellar Medium

Repeated supernovae from an OB association will, in a few ×107 yr, create a cavity of coronal gas in the interstellar medium, with radius > 100 pc, surrounded by a dense expanding shell of cool interstellar gas. Such a cavity will likely burst through the gas layer of a disk galaxy. Such holes and “supershells” have been observed in optical and H I radio emission maps of the Milky Way and other nearby galaxies. The gas swept up in the supershell is likely to become gravitationally unstable, providing a mechanism for propagating star formation that may be particularly effective in irregular galaxies.
Measurement of Thermal Conductivity Using TMDSC: Solution to the Heat Flow Problem

The dependence of the apparent heat capacity obtained from quasi-isothermal temperature-modulated differential scanning calorimetry (TMDSC) experiments and the thermal conductivity is determined for several cases. The relationships are based on the solution of the heat conduction equation which gives the temperature profile in the TMDSC sample. The temperature profile is then used to calculate the sinusoidal heat flow to the sample. We compare our results with those of other researchers. We also show the effect of thermal contact resistance on the results.
Health information exchange, Health Information Technology use, and hospital readmission rates.

The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act of 2009 offers significant financial incentives to hospitals that can demonstrate “meaningful use” of EHRs. Reduced hospital readmissions are an expected outcome of improved care coordination. Increased use of HIT, and in particular participation in HIE are touted as ways to improve coordination of care. In a 2007 national sample of US hospitals, we evaluated the association between hospitals’ HIE and HIT use and 30-day risk adjusted readmission rates for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), heart failure, and pneumonia. We found that hospital participation in HIE was not associated with lower hospital readmission rates; however, high levels of electronic documentation (an aspect of HIT use) were associated with modest reductions in readmission for heart failure (24.6% vs. 24.1%, P=.02) and pneumonia (18.4% vs. 17.9%, P=.003). More detailed data on participation in HIE are necessary to conduct more robust assessment of the relationship between HIE and hospital readmission rates.
Ethology as an Inspiration for Adaptive Behavior Synthesis in Autonomous Planetary Rovers

A navigation and control approach that supports adaptive behavior in rovers is presented. It is motivated by ethological models that suggest hierarchical organizations of behavior. The methodology employs fuzzy logic as a means to emulate animal behavior control mechanisms such as behavior activation levels, multi-behavior modulation, and threshold activation. The paper describes how these concepts can be tailored for autonomous navigation to provide a suitable framework for situated adaptation in rover control algorithms. In addition, an interesting characteristic of observed behavioral interactions achieved by an implementation of the approach is discussed, which is analogous to phenomena observed in measurements of animal brain activity during transitions between distinct behaviors.
Parameter correlations while curve fitting.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the parameter correlations while curve fitting. While curve fitting experimental data, for example, simultaneous multiple parameter estimation, an investigator can find that the answers are cross-correlated. This cross-correlation is evident when an increase in the variance-of-fit, caused by a variation in any parameters, can be partially compensated for by a variation in one or more of the other parameters. When the parameters of a simultaneous least squares analysis are correlated then the estimated uncertainties of these parameters are also correlated. Uncertainties in the evaluation of the intercept and linear terms can be partially compensated by a variation of the quadratic term, but this cannot be reflected in an increased uncertainty of the quadratic term. It is important to note that if a parameter estimation procedure reports that two parameters are correlated, it is generally not an indication that there is something correlated about the physiologic or biochemical mechanism, underlying the data.
Almost half of women with endometrial cancer or hyperplasia do not know that obesity affects their cancer risk

An estimated 52,630 cases of endometrial cancer were diagnosed in 2014 (Siegel et al., 2014), and up to 40% of these are attributable to obesity (Polednak, 2008). Women of low socioeconomic status and minority race, especially Hispanic and African-American women, are disproportionally obese and at increased risk (Ogden et al., 2010). Most cases of endometrial cancer, particularly type 1, estrogen-dependent cancers, will be curable with surgery with or without adjuvant therapy (Sorosky, 2012). The leading cause of death after treatment for endometrial cancer is cardiovascular disease (Ward et al., 2012) and the link between obesity and death from cardiovascular disease is well established (Malnick and Knobler, 2006). Obesity is also linked to increased risk of postmenopausal breast cancer and infertility (Malnick and Knobler, 2006). While over 90% of the general public is aware of the impact of obesity on cardiovascular disease (Lake S. Perry and Associates, 2003), studies show that as few as 18–42% of women are aware of the association between endometrial cancer and obesity (Cardozo et al., 2012a, Cardozo et al., 2012b, Soliman et al., 2008). These studies evaluated populations that largely consisted of White and African-American, college-educated women. Additionally, no study has specifically evaluated knowledge in women who had been diagnosed with endometrial hyperplasia or cancer. The purpose of this study was to evaluate knowledge of obesity's health risks in a population of underserved, predominantly Hispanic women. We sought to determine baseline health literacy with regard to obesity's cardiovascular and reproductive health risks, and to compare knowledge between women with endometrial hyperplasia and cancer versus unaffected controls.
Discrete wavelet transform architecture using fast processing elements

The paper presents a folded architecture for the Discrete Wavelet Transform using fast processing elements. An improved design method allows the optimization of the register allocation scheme resulting in a reduction of the required hardware.
ANAEROBIC GROWTH OF PSYCHROPHILIC BACTERIA

Upadhyay, J. (Washington State University, Pullman) and J. L. Stokes. Anaerobic growth of psychrophilic bacteria. J. Bacteriol. 83:270–275. 1962.—Facultatively anaerobic psychrophilic bacteria are widely distributed in nature and can be readily isolated from a variety of foods, soil, sewage, and other habitats. Strictly anaerobic psychrophiles, however, could not be isolated. Temperature and oxygen have striking effects on the growth and metabolism of the psychrophiles. Sugars which are fermented at 20 C may not be fermented at 0 C or gas may not be produced. Under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, decreases in incubation temperatures increase the duration of the lag, exponential, stationary, and death phases. Elimination of O2 increases the lag period, allows the cells to survive much longer at low temperatures (but accelerates their death at 20 C and higher), and, finally, reduces the extent of growth. Maximal cell populations are obtained aerobically at 5 C and anaerobically at 25 C. Growth is most rapid in the range of 20 to 35 C, and maximal growth temperatures range from 25 to 45 C. Neither of these cardinal temperatures is appreciably affected by the presence or absence of O2.
A mixed valence heteropolyvanadate, K7Na[AsV4VV7VIV5O43H3]·7H2O

Abstract The reaction of NaVO3 with As2O3, Na2C6O6 and KSCN in water at pH 4.4 yields shiny black crystals of K7Na[AsV4VV7VIV5O43H3]·7H2O. The structure consists of an ϵ-Keggin core {AsV12O40} with three [VO] vertices removed and capped by three [VO] and three [AsOH] units. Crystal data: monoclinic C2/c, a = 40.048(9), b = 13.326(1), c = 18.074(3) A, β = 112.28(1)°, V = 9005.9(14) A3, Dcalc = 2.986 g cm−3, Z = 8, R = 0.063 for 5999 reflections.
Comparison of the cardiovascular action of isoproterenol, dopamine, and dobutamine in the neonatal and mature dog

To determine if there are age-related differences of cardiovascular responses to isoproterenol, dopamine hydrochloride, and dobutamine hydrochloride, we recorded cardiac output, renal artery blood flow, central aortic blood pressure, and heart rate in 11 anesthetized puppies ranging in age from 0 to 10 days and in five adult dogs during incremental infusion of isoproterenol (0.05 to 1.25μg/kg/min), dopamine (2 to 50μg/kg/min), and dobutamine (2 to 50μg/kg/min). Isoproterenol decreased systemic arterial mean blood pressure and renal blood flow more in adult dogs than in puppies. Cardiac output was increased in both age groups, but the increase was more marked in adults than in puppies. Heart rate increased similarly in puppies and adults. Dopamine increased systemic arterial mean blood pressure, heart rate, renal blood flow, and cardiac output in both puppies and adult dogs, but the increase of cardiac output was more marked in adult dogs than in puppies. Dobutamine significantly increased systemic arterial mean blood pressure, cardiac output, and renal blood flow in adult dogs but not in puppies. Heart rate increased in both groups of dogs. This study demonstrates age-related differences in the response of the cardiovascular system of anesthetized dogs to isoproterenol, dopamine, and dobutamine.
Perfect maxwell fluids in the standard cosmology

We provide closed form solutions to the Maxwell equations for the modes associated with the propagation of classical electromagnetic radiation in background Robertson-Walker geometries of any allowed spatial curvature. An incoherent averaging over complete sets of these modes in each spatial geometry is then found to yield the familiar perfect fluid energy-momentum tensor required of the standard Friedmann cosmology.
Angiotensin II: its metabolic fate.

Randomly labeled tritiated angiotensin has been prepared with a specific activity of 300 µc/mg and with undiminished pressor and oxytocic activity. After infusion, angiotensin accumulated in the kidneys, adrenal glands, and uterus. Thirty minutes after infusion high levels of radioactivity appeared in brain, but the electrophoretic mobility differed from that of angiotensin II. Incubation of angiotensin with hemolyzed human red blood cells or diluted human plasma rapidly inactivated the pressor activity with production of metabolic products separable by paper chromatography. But if undiluted plasma is used with incubation up to 6 hours, no loss of activity occurs.
The effects of a group visit program on outcomes of diabetes care in an urban family practice.

Diabetes mellitus is a prevalent chronic health condition associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Those with diabetes must acquire self-efficacy in the tasks necessary for them to successfully manage their disease. In this study, a controlled pre- and post-design was used to determine the effect of an adult support and education group visit program embedded in an urban academic family medicine practice on weight and the achievement of treatment goals for hemoglobin A1C, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) blood concentration, and blood pressure (BP) several months after it was implemented. Participants in the program were matched to a comparison group based on age, gender, race/ethnicity, and zip code group, a surrogate marker for socioeconomic status. The distribution of demographic characteristics and co-morbidities was similar between the groups. Significant increases occurred in the proportion of participants achieving both an A1C concentration <7% (CMH=4.6613, p = 0.0309) while controlling for baseline AIC concentration, and a BP<140/90 mm Hg (CMH=5.61, p = 0.018) controlling for baseline BP compared to the comparison group. The hemoglobin A1C concentration declined in 76.9% of the participants in the group visit program compared to 54.3% in the comparison group (CMH=8.9911, p = 0.0027). The increase in the proportion of group visit participants achieving the target LDL concentrations did not achieve statistical significance. The proportion of participants who lost weight was similar to that in the comparison group. Early experience with the program was encouraging and suggested it may improve patients’ management of their diabetes mellitus in an urban, predominantly African American population.
Synthesis of naphthoquinone antibiotics by intramolecular alkyne cycloaddition to carbene-chromium complexes

Abstract The reaction of carbene-chromium complexes with alkynes provides a direct route to naphthoquinone derivatives and is the key step in a new approach to the isochromanone antibiotics exemplified by deoxyfrenolicin (1) and nanaomycin A (2). While the regioselectivity of intermolecular addition of the appropriate unsymmetrical disubstituted alkyne is unfavourable, two successful approaches have been developed. Allylacetylene reacts with methoxy-(o-methoxyphenyl)methylidene-Cr(CO)5 with high regioselectivity. Bromination, lithiation, and reaction with acetaldehyde produced the desired precursor. Alkoxypalladation led to pyran ring formation and introduction of the acetate side chain. Following earlier procedures, nanaomycin A (2) was produced. A more convergent alternative involved intramolecular cycloaddition of an alkyne with the alkylidene-chromium unit. A series of model cyclizations established the feasibility and an alkyne with an ethylene glycol side chain was prepared. The ethylene glycol unit serves as the tether to hold the alkyne in place for cyclization and allows easy removal at a later stage. Deoxyfrenolicin (1) was produced in a highly convergent and efficient process.
Occupational and Physical THerapists as Case Managers in Early Intervention

The 1986 early intervention legislation, Public Law 99-457, mandates that a case manager be named to assist the family in coordinating services. Further, the law indicated that an occupational or physical therapist may be named as the family's case manager. The purpose of this article is to describe the roles and functions involved in case management. The case management activities defined in the federal regulations of the early intervention legislation are examined as potential responsibilities of occupational and physical therapist. A explanation of how the case manager can effectively assist families in coordinating early intervention services is offered.
Points of view: content versus process: is this a fair choice? Undergraduate biology courses for nonscientists: toward a lived curriculum.

Note from the Editors Cell Biology Education (CBE) is pleased to present “Points of View,” a series designed to address issues faced by many people within the life sciences educational realm. We present several differing points of view back-to-back on a given topic to promote discussion of the topic. Readers are encouraged to participate in the online discussion forum hosted by CBE at http://www.cellbioed.org/discussion/public/main.cfm. We hope op-ed pieces on “Points of View” will stimulate thought and dialogue on significant educational issues. In this issue, we address the question “What should a biology student know?” Can biologists agree on a core set of content that all biology students should know? What about biology majors versus nonmajors? Can we create a list of facts or skills that every biology student should master? Or should our goals de-emphasize content and concentrate on ability to think, reason, analyze, and communicate? Are the details unimportant as long as students can ask good questions and figure out ways to answer their questions? We present two different “Points of View” that differ in their preferred educational outcomes. The “Points of View” we present in this issue provide two perspectives that may be familiar ones argued in your department. We invite you to share your ideas, experiences, and insights on the discussion board.
Structural Change and the Recognition of Diversity

Perestroika is not a new reality for North American agriculture. Structural adjustments in agriculture, in rural communities and regions, and in economic activities associated with the production and trading of agricultural commodities are made frequently in response to recurrent changes in economic and political conditions. Increased interdependence of agriculture with other sectors within the national economy and worldwide (Tutwiler and Elliott) amplifies the need for understanding the consequences of structural change, including the organization and control of the sector. Macroeconomic and international external sources have also been ac-
xREI: a phylo-grammar visualization webserver

Phylo-grammars, probabilistic models combining Markov chain substitution models with stochastic grammars, are powerful models for annotating structured features in multiple sequence alignments and analyzing the evolution of those features. In the past, these methods have been cumbersome to implement and modify. xrate provides means for the rapid development of phylo-grammars (using a simple file format) and automated parameterization of those grammars from training data (via the Expectation Maximization algorithm). xREI (pron. ‘X-ray’) is an intuitive, flexible AJAX (Asynchronous Javascript And XML) web interface to xrate providing grammar visualization tools as well as access to xrate’s training and annotation functionality. It is hoped that this application will serve as a valuable tool to those developing phylo-grammars, and as a means for the exploration and dissemination of such models. xREI is available at http:// harmony.biowiki.org/xrei/
Eclipse mapping of the accreting magnetic white dwarf in DP Leonis with HST

We present time-resolved ultraviolet spectrophotometry of the AM Her system DP Leo (E1114+182), obtained with the Faint Object Spectrograph on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) in 1991 October. During this period, the binary was in a low-activity state. Complementary optical spectrophotometry and spectopolarimetry were obtained in 1991 October and December, as well as in 1992 April when the object had entered a high-accretion state. The HST spectrophotometry reveals two UV-emitting components-a hot 'spot' (T approximately 50,000 K, very approximately) near the magnetic pole into which most material is accreted, and the white dwarf photosphere (T approximately 16,000 K), which dominates when the spot is not in view. Both components appear as rapid and gradual components in the ingress and egress of secondary eclipse, the latter indicating a normal white dwarf radius of 0.8 x 10(exp 9) cm. The fractional area of the spot (f approximately 0.006) implied by the eclipse data is consistent with the observed UV flux and a minimum distance of 380 pc is similar to those found in other AM Her systems. The nearly identical eclipse light curves from the HST and earlier optical observations imply that the UV-emitting reprocessing area is not more extended than the cyclotron source of optical radiation in the accretion funnel. The timing of the onset of the bright phase indicated that the spot leads the secondary in orbital azimuth by approximately 3 deg.
A brief history of the turkey

The recorded history of the turkey spans about 500 years. Turkeys originated in North America, were domesticated in Europe, and are now an important source of food in many parts of the world. This ...
Minority carrier lifetime in annealed silicon crystals containing oxygen

The influence of oxygen on the minority carrier lifetime of silicon is reported. Bulk annealed, oxygen-rich crystals subsequently sliced into wafers show lifetime degradation with annealing time. Silicon oxide precipitates and punched out dislocation loops induced during annealing are identified as electrically active defects responsible for the observed lifetime degradation. Increase in device yields (diodes) and improved lifetime in epitaxial films obtained with oxygen-rich wafers as substrates are a result of “intrinsic gettering” of oxygen-rich wafers. It is shown that “external gettering” cannot improve minority carrier lifetime in silicon wafers if during processing “intrinsic gettering” is activated. It is also shown that “external gettering” such as impact sound stressing (ISS) is very effective in improving lifetime for wafers not containing “intrinsic gettering” sources. Der Einflus von Sauerstoff auf die Minoritatslebensdauer von Silizium wird untersucht. Volumengetemperte, sauerstoffreiche Kristalle, die anschliesend in Wafer geteilt wurden, zeigen Lebensdauerverringerung mit der Temperungsdauer. Siliziumdioxidprazipitate und austretende Versetzungsschleifen, die wahrend der Temperung induziert werden, werden als elektrisch aktive Defekte identifiziert, die fur die beobachtete Lebensdauerverringerung verantwortlich sind. Der Anstieg in der Bauelementeausbeute (Dioden) und die verbesserte Lebensdauer in Epitaxieschichten, die mit sauerstoffreichem Wafer als Substrat erhalten werden, sind das Ergebnis eines “inneren Getterungsmechanismus” der sauerstoffreichen Wafer. Es wird gezeigt, das eine “ausere Getterung” die Minoritatslebensdauer in Siliziumwafer nicht verbessern kann, wenn wahrend der Herstellung “innere Getterung” aktiviert worden ist. Es wird auch gezeigt, das eine “ausere Getterung”, wie Schallstosbeanspruchung (ISS) sehr effektiv fur die Verbesserung der Lebensdauer von Wafern ist, die keine “inneren” Getterungsquellen enthalten.
Strength properties of discontinuous fiber composites

The longitudinal strengths of unidirectional discontinuous fiber composites have been calculated based on the concept of perturbation effect and the distortional energy criterion, utilizing the finite-element method. The theoretical results thus obtained are compared with the experimental data as well as the results of shear lag analysis for tungsten-copper, boron-aluminum, glass-epoxy and boron-epoxy composites. Based on the Jackson-Cratchley equations, modified for discontinuous fibers, a formula is also proposed for calculating the strengths of randomly oriented discontinuous fiber composites. The results calculated from this formula are compared with the experimental data for aluminum oxide-aluminum-silicon and glass-epoxy composites.
Discovery of Mass Anomalies on Ganymede

We present the discovery of mass anomalies on Ganymede, Jupiter's third and largest Galilean satellite. This discovery is surprising for such a large icy satellite. We used the radio Doppler data generated with the Galileo spacecraft during its second encounter with Ganymede on 6 September 1996 to model the mass anomalies. Two surface mass anomalies, one a positive mass at high latitude and the other a negative mass at low latitude, can explain the data. There are no obvious geological features that can be identified with the anomalies.
Niemann-Pick C1 Functions Independently of Niemann-Pick C2 in the Initial Stage of Retrograde Transport of Membrane-impermeable Lysosomal Cargo

The rare neurodegenerative disease Niemann-Pick Type C (NPC) results from mutations in either NPC1 or NPC2, which are membrane-bound and soluble lysosomal proteins, respectively. Previous studies have shown that mutations in either protein result in biochemically indistinguishable phenotypes, most notably the hyper-accumulation of cholesterol and other cargo in lysosomes. We comparatively evaluated the kinetics of [3H]dextran release from lysosomes of wild type, NPC1, NPC2, and NPC1/NPC2 pseudo-double mutant cells and found significant differences between all cell types examined. Specifically, NPC1 or NPC2 mutant fibroblasts treated with NPC1 or NPC2 siRNA (to create NPC1/NPC2 pseudo-double mutants) secreted dextran less efficiently than did either NPC1 or NPC2 single mutant cell lines, suggesting that the two proteins may work independently of one another in the egress of membrane-impermeable lysosomal cargo. To investigate the basis for these differences, we examined the role of NPC1 and NPC2 in the retrograde fusion of lysosomes with late endosomes to create so-called hybrid organelles, which is believed to be the initial step in the egress of cargo from lysosomes. We show here that cells with mutated NPC1 have significantly reduced rates of late endosome/lysosome fusion relative to wild type cells, whereas cells with mutations in NPC2 have rates that are similar to those observed in wild type cells. Instead of being involved in hybrid organelle formation, we show that NPC2 is required for efficient membrane fission events from nascent hybrid organelles, which is thought to be required for the reformation of lysosomes and the release of lysosomal cargo-containing membrane vesicles. Collectively, these results suggest that NPC1 and NPC2 can function independently of one another in the egress of certain membrane-impermeable lysosomal cargo.
Nontraumatic Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in the Setting of Negative Cranial Computed Tomography Results: External Validation of a Clinical and Imaging Prediction Rule

Study objective Clinical variables can reliably exclude a diagnosis of nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage in patients with negative cranial computed tomography (CT) results. We externally validated 2 decision rules with 100% reported sensitivity for a diagnosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage, among patients undergoing lumbar puncture after a negative cranial CT result: (1) clinical rule: presence of any combination of age 40 years and older, neck pain or stiffness, loss of consciousness, or headache onset during exertion; and (2) imaging rule: cranial CT performed within 6 hours of headache onset. Methods This was a matched case-control study of patients presenting to 21 emergency departments between 2000 and 2011. Patients with a diagnosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage as determined by lumbar puncture after a negative cranial CT result were screened for inclusion. A matched control cohort was selected among patients with a diagnosis of headache after negative cranial CT and lumbar puncture results. Results Fifty-five cases of subarachnoid hemorrhage meeting inclusion criteria were identified, 34 (62%) of which were attributed to cerebral aneurysms. External validation of the clinical rule demonstrated a sensitivity of 97.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] 88.6% to 99.7%), a specificity of 22.7% (95% CI 16.6% to 29.8%), and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.13 (95% CI 0.03 to 0.61) for a diagnosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage. External validation of the imaging rule revealed that 11 of 55 subarachnoid hemorrhage cases (20%) had negative cranial CT results for tests performed within 6 hours of headache onset. Conclusion The clinical rule demonstrated useful Bayesian test characteristics when retrospectively validated against this patient cohort. The imaging rule, however, failed to identify 20% of subarachnoid hemorrhage patients with a negative cranial CT result.
Young's modulus of NbSe3☆

Abstract Using the Barmatz vibrating reed technique we have measured the Young's modulus of NbSe3. An anomaly is observed at T1 (142 K) but not at T2 (58 K). Taken together with published specific heat data our results provide upper (lower) bounds for the anisotropy of the transition-temperature-stress-dependence at T1 (T2).
Hepatic stellate cells: Partners in crime for liver metastases?†‡

Hepatic stellate cells were recently postulated as a component of the prometastatic liver microenvironment because they can transdifferentiate into highly proliferative and motile myofibroblasts that are implicated in the desmoplastic reaction and metastatic growth. This review focuses on bidirectional interactions between tumor cells and HSC in the liver microenvironment and discusses mechanisms whereby tumor derived factors activate HSC, and in turn, activated HSC promote metastatic growth. Bidirectional interactions between tumors and HSC may function as an “amplification loop” to further enhance metastatic growth in the liver. The activation of HSC is a complex process regulated by multiple factors such as TGF-β and PDGF signaling pathways, which may present as therapeutic targets in the prevention and treatment of liver metastases. Targeting HSC/myofibroblasts with TGF-β or PDGF antagonists in coordination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery may prove to be effective at reducing liver metastases and increasing the survival benefit of patients by targeting both tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment.