cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Relative aggregation state and hemolytic activity of amphotericin B encapsulated by poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(N-hexyl-L-aspartamide)-acyl conjugate micelles: effects of acyl chain length.

We systematically altered the chemical structure of the core-forming poly(L-amino acid) block of an amphiphilic diblock copolymer series based on poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(N-hexyl-L-aspartamide), PEO-b-p(N-HA), acyl esters by varying the length of the attached acyl side chain. Drug-loaded micelles were prepared in good yield by a modified solvent evaporation procedure. In addition, the relative aggregation state and hemolytic activity of encapsulated amphotericin B (AmB) were analyzed by absorption spectroscopy. The length of the attached acyl side chain in PEO-b-p(N-HA) acyl ester micelles modulates the relative aggregation state of encapsulated AmB. Furthermore, acyl chain length appears to have a profound influence on the time-dependent hemolytic profile of encapsulated AmB toward bovine erythrocytes. For all acyl conjugate micelle-AmB formulations, the onset of hemolysis is delayed relative to free AmB. Particularly in the case of stearate ester micelles, the incomplete and gradual build-up of hemolysis might reflect the sustained release of drug over a period of 24 h. Based on the corresponding absorption spectrum, we speculate that encapsulated AmB may interact strongly with stearate side chains, resulting in sustained release. Via chemical manipulation of the core-forming region, it may be possible to fine-tune the release of encapsulated AmB from PEO-b-p(N-HA)-acyl ester micelles.
Diagonal ventral forebrain continuum has overlapping telencephalic inputs and brainstem outputs which may represent loci for limbic/autonomic integration

Abstract Growing evidence indicates that three areas within the mammalian basal forebrain share many common features. Based on the similarity of connections and their adjacent spacial proximity, three forebrain nuclei are referred to as a continuum. The components of this diagonal ventral forebrain continuum (DVFC) are the central nucleus of the amygdala, the sublenticular portion of the substantia innominata, and the lateral bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. A primary concern and terminal goal of this study is to determine whether the region of this continuum which projects to the brainstem autonomic nuclei such as the vagal nuclei or the parabrachial nuclei also receives inputs from the basolateral amygdala. The first phase of this study involved determining what autonomic regions receive projections from the basal forebrain. The vagal complex and the parabrachial nuclei were found to receive the densest inputs from the DVFC. The topographic distribution of the respective retrogradely labeled cells and their collateral status is described. The second phase involved looking at afferent inputs from brainstem nuclei. The parabrachial nucleus sends reciprocal projections back to the continuum, which generally overlap the neurons which project back to the brainstem visceral nuclei. The third phase of the study indicated that the cells of the basolateral amygdala contribute a major terminal field which overlaps those cells of the basal forebrain continuum which in turn project to either the nucleus of the solitary tract of the parabrachial nucleus. The possibility that the circuits implied in this study represent the neural circuitry whereby emotional stimuli result in changes in visceral activity is addressed.
Local Analysis of Shock Capturing Using Discontinuous Galerkin Methodology

The compact form of the discontinuous Galerkin method allows for a detailed local analysis of the method in the neighborhood of the shock for a non-linear model problem. Insight gained from the analysis leads to new flux formulas that are stable and that preserve the compactness of the method. Although developed for a model equation, the flux formulas are applicable to systems such as the Euler equations. This article presents the analysis for methods with a degree up to 5. The analysis is accompanied by supporting numerical experiments using Burgers' equation and the Euler equations.
Processing strategies and the comprehension of sentence-level input by L2 learners of German

Abstract This study investigates how L2 learners of German (English L1) process structural and semantic information when reading German sentences. In a timed comprehension task, intermediate and advanced L2 learners of German read sentences that varied according to word order (subject-first versus object-first) and subject animacy (inanimate subject versus animate subject). Both learner groups exhibited higher comprehension rates and faster reading times for sentences with an inanimate subject, and higher comprehension rates for subject-first compared to object-first sentences. Only among the advanced L2 learners did this subject-first preference translate into significant reading time differences. Comprehension rates for advanced L2 learners were also higher than for intermediate L2 learners in sentences with an animate subject. The results suggest that while both learner groups adopted semantic-based processing strategies, the advanced L2 learners were better able to utilize structural-based strategies to interpret case markings and word order when completing the task.
Tracing migrant farmworkers in Starr County, Texas.

Background In response to The National Cancer Institute (NCI) concerns about the ability to conduct studies among migrant farmworkers, this study evaluated the feasibility of identifying migrant farmworkers in their home state and tracing them over an extended period of time. Methods In 1995, a group of 196 persons who had classified themselves as “migrant farmworkers” in two earlier chronic disease studies was identified. The primary objective of the current study was to determine the proportion of these farmworkers who could be located in 1995–1996. Results Of these farmworkers, 163 were located and were living (83.2%), 15 had died (7.6%), and 18 (9.2%) were lost to follow-up. Conclusions The excellent follow-up rate was due in part to the high participation rates among persons contacted for information, stability of the farmworkers' permanent homes, predictable timing of migration, and a longstanding health research program with established community contacts. Am. J. Ind. Med. 40:586–591, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Saccharin-induced increase in daily fluid intake as a predictor of voluntary alcohol intake in alcohol-preferring rats.

This study examined the relationship between saccharin intake and ethanol consumption in alcohol preferring (P) rats and Fawn Hooded (FH) rats before and after exposure to forced ethanol (10%, v/v) solution. Both groups exhibited large increases (>2X) in daily fluid intake (DFI) when saccharin (0.1%, w/v) was present and exhibited moderate levels of ethanol intake. Only the P rats significantly increased their ethanol consumption after exposure to ethanol as the sole drinking fluid. Correlational analyses revealed that the absolute intakes of saccharin and ethanol were not significantly correlated in either group, but the increase in DFI in the presence of saccharin was highly correlated with ethanol intake after forced ethanol exposure (r > +0.8;p < 0.05). Similarly, when correlations were conducted for these variables over both the P and FH groups, the correlation between increase in DFI in the presence of saccharin and alcohol intake was significantly higher than that between saccharin and alcohol intakes. Reexamination of previous data from 6 different rat strains also revealed a significant correlation between increase in DFI in the presence of saccharin and ethanol intake. These findings suggest that the dramatic increase in of DFI in the presence of saccharin may be an animal analog of the clinical phenomenon known as a loss of control.
ZINC AND COPPER INHIBIT EXPRESSION OF INDUCIBLE NITRIC OXIDE SYNTHASE IN RAT ALVEOLAR MACROPHAGES: A REASON FOR THE INDUCTION OF METAL BINDING PROTEINS DURING ENDOTOXEMIA? • 1827

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces the metal-binding proteins, metallothionein and ceruloplasmin, in the lung. This is a potential salvage mechanism for zinc and copper when they are purged from proteins by the oxidants generated during endotoxemia. Since the expression of metal-binding proteins is rapid (< 2 hours), we postulated that unbound Zn and Cu might inhibit the expression of alveolar macrophage (Mφ) genes induced by LPS. A candidate alveolar Mφ gene maximally induced by LPS within 8 hours of exposure is nitric oxide (NO) synthase. We tested this hypothesis by stimulating a rat alveolar Mφ cell line (NR8383) with LPS (50 ng) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ = 100 U). Thereafter, we measured NO production as nitrite [Griess reaction] at 24 hours. Zinc chloride (10 - 200μM) or copper chloride (10 - 100 μM) were added either with the stimuli(0 hour) or 8 hours after LPS and IFN-γ treatment. Unstimulated Mφ produced <0.5 μM nitrite, while stimulated Mφ generated 57±4μM nitrite. Stimulated Mφ exposed to 200 μM Zn at 0 hour produced 1.9±0.4 μM nitrite (P<0.05, n = 4), while 10 μM Zn added at 0 hour did not effect nitrite generation. Stimulated Mφ exposed to 100 μM Cu at 0 hour produced 9.6±0.3 μM nitrite(P<0.05), while 10 μM Cu added at 0 hour enhanced nitrite generation (82±3 μM, P<0.05). Intermediate concentrations of Zn or Cu added at 0 hour had less inhibitory effects. Inhibitory concentrations of Zn or Cu added at 8 hours resulted in rates of nitrite production akin to those for Mφ treated with LPS and IFN-γ without metal exposure. Northern blot analyses of mRNA expression for inducible NO synthase using stimulated Mφ treated with 100 or 200 μM Zn at 0 or 8 hours showed an inhibition of induction in 0 hour cells, but none in 8 hour specimens. RNA was isolated 24 hours after stimulation. We conclude that free Zn and Cu can inhibit induction of NO synthase in rat alveolar macrophages. We speculate that during endotoxemia, Zn and Cu are sequestered by metallothionein and ceruloplasmin, thereby favoring NO production.
Brightness Enhancement in Intermittent Light: Variation of Luminance and Light–Dark Ratio*

The effects of varying luminance and light–dark ratio (LDR) on the brightness enhancement of an intermittent light were investigated. The enhancement observed in this experiment with a train of flashes displayed the same functional relationships as the brightness enhancement found with a single flash. In both cases, increasing luminance increases brightness enhancement and decreases the optimal flash duration until an optimal luminance is reached, whereupon further increases in luminance have an opposite effect. Varying the LDR, which is the same as varying the flash duration independently of the repetition rate, increased the optimal repetition rate, while optimal flash duration and enhancement magnitude remained invariant. Interactions among the flashes were observed and appeared to be manifestations of backward and forward masking among the flashes in a train.
Wetlands and infectious diseases

There is a historical association between wetlands and infectious disease that has led to the modification of wetlands to prevent disease. At the same time there has been the development of water resources projects that increase the risk of disease. The demand for more water development projects and the increased pressure to make natural wetlands economically beneficial creates the need for an ecological approach to wetland management and health assessment. The environmental and health interactions are many. There is a need to take into account the landscape, spatial boundaries, and cross-boundary interactions in water development projects as well as alternative methods to provide water for human needs. The research challenges that need to be addressed are discussed.
THE NOCTURNAL BEHAVIOUR OF XEROPHYTES GROWN UNDER ARID CONDITIONS

Summary Stomatal apertures of seventy-eight species of xerophytes grown under arid conditions were greater at night than during the day. Most stomata were closed during the day, and especially during the hottest period. Many stomata opened at night, especially in the presence of dew or mist. Nocturnal opening did not occur at low relative humidities.
Plausibility schemas: templates for legal factfinding

This paper describes a default-logic framework (plausibility schemas) and software tools (Decision Apprentice™ and Legal Apprentice™) for modeling, guiding and automating the reasoning from evidence in a legal record to a finding of fact.
The Impact of Logistics Performance on Trade

This paper studies the impact of logistics performance on global bilateral trade. Taking a supply chain perspective, logistics performance refers to cost, time, and complexity in accomplishing import and export activities. We draw on a data set compiled by the World Bank containing specific quantitative metrics of logistics performance in terms of time, cost, and variability in time. Numerous researchers have shown that logistics performance is statistically significantly related to the volume of bilateral trade. Our research calibrates the impact of specific improvements in logistics performance (time, cost, and reliability) on increased trade. Our findings can spur public and private agencies that have direct or indirect influence over logistics performance to focus attention on altering the most relevant aspects of logistics performance to improve their country's ability to compete in today's global economy. Moreover, as our logistics metrics are directly related to operational performance, countries can use these metrics to target actions to improve logistics and monitor their progress.
Intramolecular photocyclization of 1-(trimethylsilyl)-1,5-hexadien-3-ones

Abstract An influence upon the regiochemistry of cyclization due to a 1-trimethylsilyl substituent is indicated upon comparison of the photochemistry of 4a,b and their carbon analogs 5a,b.
Nutrients, vitamins and minerals as therapy.

Nutrients as therapy for patients with cancer are important as adjunctive therapy, i.e., adequate nutrition may be important for the success of whatever form of therapy is administered. Diets deficient in certain amino acids have some selectivity when tested against experimental tumors propagated in vivo. Such diets have had limited clinical trial and have been characterized by poor patient acceptance. Enzymes that produce deficiencies of certain amino acids, e.g., asparaginase, glutaminase, methioninase appear to offer a more reasonable approach to development of selective amino acid deficiencies in man. Trace metals in excessive amounts may be toxic or carcinogenic to the host. Two heavy metal salts, Cis-diamine dichloroplatinum and gallium nitrate, have recently been shown to have anti-neoplastic effects in man. There is no conclusive evidence that vitamins, administered in large doses, have significant antineoplastic effects although large doses of vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin B12 have been used for this purpose. In contrast, certain vitamin analogs such as folate antimetabolites can cause tumor regression and are useful clinical treatment. An enzyme, carboxypeptidase G1, by splitting naturally occurring folates, may also have promise as a method of producing enzymic folate deficiency.
Dinitrogen complexes of molybdenum containing arsine ligands

Abstract A stable dinitrogen complex Mo(N 2 ) 2 L 4 where L 2 is 1-diphenylarsino-2-diphenylphosphinoethane has been isolated. The analogous compound where L 2 is bis 1,2-diphenylarsinoethane is both light and air sensitive. It indicates that both contain trans dinitrogen.
Children acquire emotion categories gradually

Abstract Some accounts imply that basic-level emotion categories are acquired early and quickly, whereas others imply that they are acquired later and more gradually. Our study examined this question for fear, happiness, sadness , and anger in the context of children's categorization of emotional facial expressions. Children ( N = 168, 2–5 years) first labeled facial expressions of six emotions and were then shown a box and asked to put all and only, e.g., scared people in it. Before using fear in labeling, children had begun to include ‘fear’ faces and to exclude other (especially positive) faces from the fear box/category; after using fear , children continued to include other (especially negative) faces. The same pattern was observed for happiness, sadness, and anger. Emotion categories begin broad, including all emotions/faces of the same valence, and then gradually narrow over the preschool years.
EXAFS study of amorphous Ge2Sb2Te5

Abstract Extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) studies of sputtered amorphous pristine thin films of Ge 2 Sb 2 Te 5 reveal only four of the six possible bond pairs. That is, we find no successful fit to EXAFS data showing Ge–Sb or Te–Te bonds. Furthermore, our data indicate Ge is fully four-fold coordinated ( N = 4) while both Sb and Te are over-coordinated with respective N values of 3.3 and 2.4. In Ge–Sb–Te alloys we note that the difference in magnitude of the optical transmissivity between the amorphous and crystalline states of is proportional to the fraction of three-fold coordinated Te.
Thomson Reuters to release Book Citation Index later this year

[1] Thomson Reuters will launch its new Book Citation Index later this year. Projected to include 25,000 volumes from major publishers and university presses in science, social science, and the humanities, the Book Citation Index will cover scholarly books (both series and nonseries) that present original research or literature reviews. The current effort regarding the science section is focused on books published from 2005 to the present. AGU has sent copies of its catalog for inclusion in the Book Citation Index, but the final selection will be made by Thomson Reuters, using its internal selection criteria, which may be found at http://wokinfo.com/wok/media/pdf/BKCI-SelectionEssay_web.pdf.
EGR-VGT control schemes: experimental comparison for a high-speed diesel engine

Variable-geometry turbochargers (VGTs) are employed in high-end diesel engines. These VGTs also help in controlling the trade-offs in emissions performance. Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) is used to dilute the combustion mixture, resulting in lower peak combustion temperatures and a lower oxygen concentration and hence lower NOx emissions. In this article, we compare some of the control methodologies previously presented and some not yet presented to evaluate their benefits experimentally. We do not include any new theory. Rather we refer to other sources for the development of the controllers evaluated. We present an objective comparison of advanced control methodologies on a complex industrial problem with widespread applications. The control methodologies discussed are essentially system based, i.e., the initial controller is developed on an engine model.
Asymmetric bilateral bargaining in the new Russian Federation: A path-dependence explanation

Abstract In this essay we identify economic and political factors that led both the federal centre and the regions in Russia first to open the process of federal bargaining and then to pursue it in the form of signing bilateral treaties, unique for each region. Many Russian politicians and most scholars of Russian politics view asymmetric bilateral bargaining as a dangerous institutional choice contributing to federal instability and potentially threatening the disintegration of Russia. We offer an alternative view. While the treaty-signing practices are actively maintained by Russian political elites, we argue that the genesis of asymmetric bilateral bargaining in Russia had a strong `path dependence' component. In particular, it was precipitated by the developments of the last period in evolution of the Soviet federalism.
Identification of PAX3-FKHR-regulated genes differentially expressed between alveolar and embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma: focus on MYCN as a biologically relevant target.

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a family of myogenic soft tissue tumors subdivided into two main subtypes: alveolar (ARMS) and embryonal (ERMS). ARMS is characterized by a frequent 2;13 chromosomal translocation that creates a PAX3-FKHR fusion transcription factor. To identify downstream targets of PAX3-FKHR, we introduced an inducible form of PAX3-FKHR into human RD ERMS cells. Microarray analysis identified 39 genes (29 upregulated and 10 downregulated) that are modulated by PAX3-FKHR in RD cells and differentially expressed between ERMS and PAX3-FKHR-positive ARMS tumors. Functional annotation demonstrated that genes involved in regulation of transcription and development, particularly neurogenesis, are represented in this group. MYCN was one notable neural-related transcription factor-encoding gene identified in this set, and its regulation by PAX3-FKHR was further confirmed at the RNA and protein levels. The findings of cycloheximide inhibition and time-course studies are consistent with the hypothesis that the PAX3-FKHR protein acts directly on the MYCN gene at the transcriptional level. Functional studies established that MYCN cooperates with PAX3-FKHR to enhance oncogenic activity. In conclusion, we identified a selected set of biologically relevant genes modulated by PAX3-FKHR, and demonstrated that PAX3-FKHR contributes to the expression of MYCN and in turn MYCN collaborates with PAX3-FKHR in tumorigenesis. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Intracranial gyriform calcification associated with subarachnoid fat

Intracranial convolutional or gyriform calcification simulating Sturge-Weber syndrome has been described in association with bacterial and viral intracranial infection as well as irradiation and intrathecal methotrexate for central nervous system leukemia. Reported is a case of gyriform calcification caused by chemical meningitis secondary to subarachnoid fat from an epidermoid tumor.
Posterior Reversible Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome Presenting with Global Cerebral Edema and Herniation

Background We report a case of global cerebral edema and herniation due to Posterior Reversible Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome (PRES).
Birth defects associated with perturbations in preimplantation, gastrulation, and axis extension: from conjoined twinning to caudal dysgenesis

Congenital malformations represent approximately 3 in 100 live births within the human population. Understanding their pathogenesis and ultimately formulating effective treatments are underpinned by knowledge of the events and factors that regulate normal embryonic development. Studies in model organisms, primarily in the mouse, the most prominent genetically tractable mammalian model, have equipped us with a rudimentary understanding of mammalian development from early lineage commitment to morphogenetic processes. In this way, information provided by studies in the mouse can, in some cases, be used to draw parallels with other mammals, including human. Here, we provide an overview of our current understanding of the general sequence of developmental events from early cell cleavages to gastrulation and axis extension occurring in human embryos. We will also review some of the rare birth defects occurring at these stages, in particular those resulting in conjoined twinning or caudal dysgenesis.
Understanding the behavior of the heliospheric magnetic field and the solar wind during the unusual solar minimum between cycles 23 and 24

The properties of the heliospheric magnetic field and the solar wind were substan- tially different in the unusual solar minimum between Cycles 23 and 24: the magnetic-field strength was substantially reduced, as were the flow properties of the solar wind, such as the mass flux. Explanations for these changes are offered that do not require any substantial reconsideration of the general understandings of the behavior of the heliospheric magnetic field and the solar wind that were developed in the minimum of Cycle 22 - 23. Solar-wind composition data are used to demonstrate that there are two distinct regions of solar wind: solar wind likely to originate from the stalk of the streamer belt (the highly elongated loops that underlie the heliospheric current sheet), and solar wind from outside this region. The re- gion outside the streamer-stalk region is noticeably larger in the minimum of Cycle 23 - 24; however, the increased area can account for the reduction in the heliospheric magnetic-field strength in this minimum. Thus, the total magnetic flux contained in this region is the same in the two minima. Various correlations among the solar-wind mass flux and coronal electron temperature inferred from solar-wind charge states were developed for the Cycle 22 - 23 so- lar minimum. The data for the minimum of Cycle 23 - 24 suggest that the correlations still hold, and thus the basic acceleration mechanism is unchanged in this minimum.
Effect of salt intake on progression of chronic kidney disease.

Purpose of review The attempt of this review is to bring into focus the potential role of dietary salt intake in progression of chronic kidney disease. Recent findings Ongoing work has elucidated a role for dietary salt intake in modulating intrarenal production of transforming growth factor-beta1. The mechanism is independent of angiotensin II and systemic blood pressure and involves activation of vascular endothelium by dietary salt intake with release of this growth factor. In this model, transforming growth factor-beta1 serves an autacoid function by stimulating nitric oxide production by the endothelium. In turn, endothelium-derived nitric oxide modulates production of this growth factor. The model further predicts that individuals who have lost the requisite endothelial cell flexibility to adapt to this environmental stress (a high salt diet) are potentially at increased risk of developing end-organ damage from excess salt intake. Animal and human studies are presented to support this working hypothesis. Summary Overproduction of transforming growth factor-beta1 permits excess biological activity of this important fibrogenic growth factor with subsequent development or acceleration of vascular and kidney damage. In patients with diseases whose pathogenesis is related to excess production of transforming growth factor-beta1, such as chronic allograft nephropathy and diabetic nephropathy, increased salt intake may hasten loss of function, particularly if nitric oxide production does not increase. The role that endothelial cell plasticity plays in altering vascular tone and renal function, especially in response to changes in dietary salt intake, should be examined further in chronic kidney disease.
Selective MRCP and CT-Guided Drainage of Malignant Hilar Biliary Obstruction

Hilar tumors represent a complex disease process with potentially poor outcomes. Curative options in patients with hilar tumors are limited. Successful palliation by providing effective drainage is often the principal intervention, and success can offer substantial improvement in quality of life. Their complexity and location make hilar tumors challenging for the endoscopist. The traditional approach of opacifying the entire biliary tract with contrast increases the risk of infectious complications or requires placement of multiple stents, which is often not feasible. Computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) with reconstructed images are essential noninvasive tools that provide an excellent roadmap of hilar tumors. The information provided can help in guiding the endoscopist to selectively access the optimal intercommunicating ducts for opacification and drainage. In this review, we discuss the approach to endoscopic retrograde cholangiography in hilar tumors, including use of CT scan and MRCP to aid with selective access and stenting. Intrahepatic duct access is done primarily with guidewires and limited use of contrast material. In general, unilateral placement of a metallic stent is adequate, but in select circumstances, bilateral stents may be required. The approach of targeted drainage appears to decrease complications arising from endoscopic drainage of hilar tumors and allows for effective palliation in most circumstances.
Abortion and abortion laws today

(1972). Abortion and abortion laws today. The Journal of Sex Research: Vol. 8, No. 3, pp. 167-169.
ISA( k ) trees: a class of binary search trees with minimal or near minimal internal path length

In recent years several authors have investigated binary search trees with minimal internal path length. In this paper we propose relaxing the requirement of inserting all nodes on one level before going to the next level. This leads to a new class of binary search trees called ISA [k] trees. We investigated the average locate cost per node, average shift cost per node, total insertion cost, and average successful search cost for ISA[k] trees. We also present an insertion algorithm with associated predecessor and successor functions for ISA[k] trees. For large binary search trees (over 160 nodes) our results suggest the use of ISA[2] or ISA[3] trees for best performance.
Genital Trauma in Pediatric and Adolescent Females

Straddle injuries. Outdoors, these injuries may be associated with bicycles, fences, playground equipment, trees, trailer hitches, ladders, and the edges of above-ground pools. Indoors, injuries may be related to climbing on counters, cabinet doors or furniture, or into bathtubs. Falls. Genital trauma may be associated with a fall onto an object, such as a toy. There have also been reports of such trauma from falling into the water with legs abducted while wateror jetskiing. Motor vehicle accidents. Often related to crushing injuries. In one study, motor vehicle crashes were responsible for 63% of blunt perineal injuries to children ages under 16. Animal bites. Rare. In the U.S., 1% of all emergency room visits are due to wounds from animal bites; 60% to 70% of these are among children; only a few case reports of animal bites to the genitalia. Burns. Usually from immersion or scalding among children; a few chemical burns have also been reported, and may be related to attempted self-abortion, treatment for infections, or contraception.
Comparative genomic analysis reveals a distant liver enhancer upstream of the COUP-TFII gene.

COUP-TFII is a central nuclear hormone receptor that tightly regulates the expression of numerous target lipid metabolism genes in vertebrates. However, it remains unclear how COUP-TFII itself is transcriptionally controlled since studies with its promoter and upstream region fail to recapitulate the genes liver expression. In an attempt to identify liver enhancers in the vicinity of COUP-TFII, we employed a comparative genomic approach. Initial comparisons between humans and mice of the 3,470kb gene poor region surrounding COUP-TFII revealed 2,023 conserved non-coding elements. To prioritize a subset of these elements for functional studies, we performed further genomic comparisons with the orthologous pufferfish (Fugu rubripes) locus and uncovered two anciently conserved non-coding sequences (CNS) upstream of COUP-TFII (CNS-62kb and CNS-66kb). Testing these two elements using reporter constructs in liver (HepG2) cells revealed that CNS-66kb, but not CNS-62kb, yielded robust in vitro enhancer activity. In addition, an in vivo reporter assay using naked DNA transfer with CNS-66kb linked to luciferase displayed strong reproducible liver expression in adult mice, further supporting its role as a liver enhancer. Together, these studies further support the utility of comparative genomics to uncover gene regulatory sequences based on evolutionary conservation and provide the substrates to better understand the regulation and expression of COUP-TFII.
Effect of length on the diffusion of a rodlike polymer at concentrations spanning the isotropic-lyotropic transition.

The optical tracer self-diffusion of rodlike poly(benzyl-α,l-glutamate) (PBLG) is measured in pyridine solutions spanning the isotropic−liquid crystalline phase boundary for two different molecular...
Using early-season leaf traits to predict nitrogen sufficiency of burley tobacco

Burley tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) requires large amounts of fertilizer N to produce high yields of good-quality air-cured leaf. On well-drained soils, fertilizer N typically is applied as much as 4 wk before transplanting. This results in a delay of up to 9 wk before the onset of rapid growth and N accumulation at about 5 wk after transplanting. Abundant rainfall often occurs during this period and creates the potential for losses of soil and fertilizer N. An early-season N-sufficiency tissue test could guide the tobacco grower in adjusting fertilizer needs of the crop before the last cultivation, which normally occurs about 5 wk after transplanting. The objective of this study was to determine relationships among selected N-nutrition-related leaf traits of tobacco measured 3, 4, and 5 wk after transplanting and to determine if these traits are related to yields of air-cured leaf. Burley tobacco was grown in 1993 at two locations, with 0 to 336 kg N ha -1 applied before transplanting. One site had a well-drained soil; the other site, moderately well-drained. Total N, extracted chlorophyll, and chlorophyll meter readings were measured on leaf lamina disks taken from lower leaves. Leaf yields at both sites were equivalent at 336 kg N ha -1 , with increases in yield due to added N being less for the well-drained soil. The response patterns of the leaf traits to fertilizer N were different for the two soil types and corresponded to the respective yield response patterns for each site. Neither extracted chlorophyll (335-760 mg m -2 ) nor chlorophyll meter readings (23.0-42.6 SPAD units) plateaued with increasing total N of leaf disks (3.50-6.26 g m -2 ; 41.2-66.6 mg g -1 dry wt.). Models for linear relationships among leaf traits were significant (R 2 = 0.60-0.66; P < 0.001). A 20% increase in relative yield corresponded to about a 25% increase in concentrations of total N and extracted chlorophyll, but only a 5% increase in chlorophyll meter readings. After more testing and calibration with comparisons to a high-N-fertility reference strip, these early-season leaf tissue traits may prove useful in predicting sidedress fertilizer N requirements.
Unpacking Online Asynchronous Collaboration in mathematics teacher education

We report on one aspect of an extended research and development project that was conducted to support teachers’ development of mathematical knowledge for teaching (MKT) algebra through participation and authentic engagement in online collaborative mathematical problem solving. This article expands on our recent work, which has succeeded in developing a model for supporting teachers’ mathematical development at a distance that has shown great promise for supporting significant gains in teachers’ MKT. Specifically, this ex-post-facto analysis consisted of qualitative, micro-level analysis of the content of teachers’ activity and generated artifacts and helps us understand how the various collaborative activities (specific combinations of interaction, instructor support and feedback, and technology) supported and/or constrained the development of MKT algebra in an online environment.
Estimation of Combining Ability for Resistance to Fusarium Stalk Rot in Grain Sorghum

Fusarium stalk rot (caused by Fusarium spp.) is an important disease of grain sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]. The objectives of this study were to identify genetic sources of Fusarium stalk rot resistance and estimate combining ability. Six sorghum R-lines, representing commercial parent lines and potential sources of stalk rot resistance, Tx2737, Tx435, SC33, SC35, SC599 and SC1158, and three standard seed parents, ASA3042, AWheatland, and ARedlan, were intercrossed in a Design II mating scheme. The inbred parent lines and corresponding hybrids were evaluated in field trials at Manhattan and Hesston, KS, in 1999 and 2000. Three randomly selected plants in each plot were artificially inoculated in the pith tissue of the basal stalk with liquid cultures of F. proliferatum at 14 d after flowering. One additional plant in each plot was inoculated with distilled water as a control. At 28 d after inoculation, plants were harvested and scored for disease severity. Significant differences in disease reactions were noted among parent lines and hybrids. Among hybrids, significant male and female parent effects and interactions were detected. SC599 consistently had very low mean disease scores, followed by SC1158. Hybrids produced with SC599 were also highly resistant, indicating that genes for resistance had a dominant mode of inheritance in this genotype. SC599 represents an excellent source of resistance to F. proliferatum for use in breeding programs.
Visual classification of coarse vehicle orientation using Histogram of Oriented Gradients features

For an autonomous vehicle, detecting and tracking other vehicles is a critical task. Determining the orientation of a detected vehicle is necessary for assessing whether the vehicle is a potential hazard. If a detected vehicle is moving, the orientation can be inferred from its trajectory, but if the vehicle is stationary, the orientation must be determined directly. In this paper, we focus on vision-based algorithms for determining vehicle orientation of vehicles in images. We train a set of Histogram of Oriented Gradients (HOG) classifiers to recognize different orientations of vehicles detected in imagery. We find that these orientation-specific classifiers perform well, achieving a 88% classification accuracy on a test database of 284 images. We also investigate how combinations of orientation-specific classifiers can be employed to distinguish subsets of orientations, such as driver's side versus passenger's side views. Finally, we compare a vehicle detector formed from orientation-specific classifiers to an orientation-independent classifier and find that, counter-intuitively, the orientation-independent classifier outperforms the set of orientation-specific classifiers.
Current Status of Intravascular Stents as Delivery Devices to Prevent Restenosis

The acute technical success of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) has been improved with the use of intravascular stents. However, stent placement has led to the development of an increased myointimal hyperplastic response leading to late reduction in vessel lumen. Restenosis (> or =50% reduction in reference lumen diameter) rates for coronary angioplasty and stenting are reported between 20% and 50% at 1 year. Several studies are currently evaluating novel delivery of antiproliferative agents to prevent neointimal hyperplasia. The authors review the mechanism of neointimal hyperplasia as it relates to stent placement and discuss recent and ongoing trials evaluating intravascular brachytherapy and drug-eluting stent technology in the inhibition of restenotic lesions.
Proteolytic ratchets that control progression through mitosis

Abstract A key player in mitotic progression is a cell-cycle-regulated ubiquitin–protein ligase complex known as the anaphase-promoting complex or cyclosome (APC/C). The APC/C is part of the machinery that promotes the metaphase–anaphase transition by mediating the ubiquitin-dependent destruction of anaphase inhibitors and initiates exit from mitosis by degrading mitotic cyclins. This review describes the known components and substrates of the mitotic ubiquitination machinery and discusses how a new subfamily of proteins that contain the WD40 repeat (the Fizzy/Cdc20p family) might activate the APC/C to allow temporal differences in substrate ubiquitination during progression through mitosis.
Ultraviolet B Inhibits Skin Wound Healing by Affecting Focal Adhesion Dynamics.

As the most important interface between human body and external environment, skin acts as an essential barrier preventing various environmental damages, among which DNA-damaging UV radiation from the sun remains the major environmental risk factor causing various skin diseases. It has been well documented that wavelengths in the ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation range (290-320 nm) of the solar spectrum can be absorbed by skin and lead to cutaneous injury and various other deleterious effects. During process such as wound healing, the orchestrated movement of cells in a particular direction is essential and highly regulated, integrating signals controlling adhesion, polarity and the cytoskeleton. Cell adhesion and migration are modulated through both of actin and microtubule cytoskeletons. However, little was known about how UVB affects skin wound healing and migration of epidermal keratinocytes. Here, we demonstrate that UVB can delay the wound healing progress in vivo with a murine model of full-thickness skin wound. In addition, UVB significantly inhibited keratinocyte motility by altering focal adhesion turnover and cytoskeletal dynamics. Our results provide new insights into the etiology of UVB exposure-induced skin damages.
Syntheses and characterizations of tin complexes of methylenediphenylphosphinate ligands: the crystal structures of [Ph4−xSn(CH2P(S)Ph2)x] (x = 1–4) and [Ph2SnCl(CH2P(O)Ph2)]2

Abstract Reactions between methylenediphenylphosphinate anions [CH2P(E)Ph2]− (E = S,O) and appropriate chlorophenyltin(IV) compounds in tetrahydrofuran afforded the organotin compounds [Ph4−xSn(CH2P(S)Ph2)x], (x = 1–4), 1–4 and [Ph2SnCl(CH2P(O)Ph2)]2, 5. All compounds have been characterized structurally, 1–4 as 4-coordinate monometallic species and 5 as a bimetallic 8-membered metallacycle which is 5-coordinate at each metal atom.
INTRACRANIAL PRESSURE IN REYE'S SYNDROME

During the past 3 years the intracranial pressure(ICP)of 17 children with Reye's Syndrome(RS)has been monitored. The epidural monitor was placed in patients whose level of coma was III or deeper(Sherard Stages I-VI). The cerebrospinal fluid pressure or ICP was measured on 15 patients on admission to the hospital. The pressure was 200mm H2O or less in 7 patients and 300mm H2O or less in 13 patients. In survivors maximum ICP was recorded at 8-24 hours after admission and correlated with the level of coma. An ICP of 400-800 mm H2O was associated with coma level of IV or deeper. In one child the ICP was greater than 1300mm H2O. In 8 patients abrupt increases in ICP to 700mm HpO or greater occurred and preceded any clinical evidence of increasing ICP. These episodes lasted 20-30 minutes, and were treated with hyperventilation and/or mannitol. In 4 patients these episodes were repetitive, being separated by intervals of 2-12 hours. Most of our patients were admitted to the hospital during the early hours of their illness and were in Stage II or III coma. During this phase, the level of consciousness does not appear to be directly related to the ICP, however if the level of coma deepens during the next 24 hours after admission the ICP correlates with the stage of coma. Continuous ICP monitoring is essential for the optimal management of intracranial hypertension associated with RS and serves as an objective criteria for the administration of hyperosmolar agents in patients with coma Stage III or deeper.
Identification of Surface Sites on Monoclinic WO3 Powders by Infrared Spectroscopy

The dehydroxylation/dehydration and Lewis acidity of the surface of monoclinic tungsten oxide (m-WO3) powder as a function of evacuation temperature was investigated by infrared spectroscopy. At room temperature, the m-WO3 surface contains both isolated and hydrogen bonded hydroxyl groups along with equal amounts of strongly and weakly adsorbed layers of water. Most of the surface hydroxyl groups and the weakly adsorbed water layer are eliminated by evacuation at room temperature. The strongly adsorbed water is removed by evacuation above 200 °C. Adsorption of D2O shows that the surface hydroxyl groups and adsorbed water are accessible and easily exchanged. However, the removal of the strongly held water is not related to the number of Lewis or Bronsted acid sites on the surface. While there is little change in the amount of adsorbed water between a room temperature sample and a sample evacuated at 150 °C, pyridine adsorption shows that there is a corresponding 50% reduction in the number of Lewis acid si...
Early detection of acute renal failure by serum cystatin C: a new opportunity for a hepatologist.

Acute renal failure (ARF) is associated with high mortality. Presently, no specific therapy for ARF exists. Therefore, early detection of ARF is critical to prevent its progression. However, serum creatinine, the standard marker to detect ARF, demonstrates major limitations. We prospectively evaluated whether serum cystatin C detected ARF earlier than serum creatinine. In 85 patients at high risk to develop ARF, serum creatinine and cystatin C were determined daily. ARF was defined according to the Risk of renal dysfunction, Injury to the kidney, Failure of kidney function, Loss of kidney function, and ESRD (RIFLE) classification when creatinine increased by >/= 50% (R-criteria), by >/= 100% (I-criteria), or by >/= 200% (F-criteria). In analogy, ARF was detected when cystatin C increased by >/= 50%, by >/= 100%, or by >/= 200%. Forty-four patients developed ARF and 41 served as controls. In ARF by R-, I-, and F-criteria, the increase of cystatin C significantly preceded that of creatinine. Specifically, serum cystatin C increased already by >/= 50% 1.5 +/− 0.6 days earlier compared to creatinine. Serum cystatin C demonstrated a high diagnostic value to detect ARF as indicated by area under the curve of the ROC analysis of 0.82 and 0.97 on the two days before the R-criteria was fulfilled by creatinine. Cystatin C detected ARF according to the R-criteria with a sensitivity of 55% and 82% on these days, respectively. Cystatin C also performed excellently, detecting ARF defined by the I- and F-criteria two days prior to creatinine, and moderately well predicting renal replacement therapy in the further course of ARF. Additionally, low T(3)- or T(3)/T(4) syndrome, glucocorticoid deficiency and excess did not affect cystatin C levels, adding to its usefulness in critically ill patients with ARF. Serum cystatin C is a useful detection marker of ARF, and may detect ARF one to two days earlier than creatinine. (Kidney Int 2004;66:1115-1122)
Phenoloxidase activity in the reproductive system and egg masses of the pulmonate gastropod,Biomphalaria glabrata

Phenoloxidase (PO) activity in the albumen gland (AG) and egg masses (EM) of Biomphalaria glabrata was assessed using high-performance liquid chromatography combined with electrochemical detection and colorimetric techniques. Both AG and EM extracts catalyzed the hydroxylation of L-tyrosine (monophenol oxidase activity, MPO) and oxidation of L-dopa (diphenol oxidase activity, DPO). However, no PO activity was found in the ovotestis. Both MPO and DPO activities in AG and EM were significantly inhibited by 1-phenyl-2-thiourea and inactivated by boiling. Approximately 35% of MPO and 44% of DPO activities were detected in the soluble fraction of homogenized EM, in contrast to that of homogenized AG, which contained about 5% and 12%, respectively, of MPO and DPO activities. N-acetyl-dopamine, a diphenolic compound, enhanced the hydroxylation of tyrosine by the PO. The presence of both MPO and DPO activities also was confirmed by the accelerated accumulation of dopachrome during incubation of EM extracts with L-tyrosine in the absence of ascorbate. Temperature and pH optima for this enzyme were 30 degrees C and 7.5, respectively. The potential roles of PO in egg formation in B glabrata are discussed.