cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Wnt 3a promotes proliferation and suppresses osteogenic differentiation of adult human mesenchymal stem cells

Multipotential adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are able to differentiate along several known lineages, and lineage commitment is tightly regulated through specific cellular mediators and interactions. Recent observations of a low/high bone-mass phenotype in patients expressing a loss-/gain-of-function mutation in LRP5, a coreceptor of the Wnt family of signaling molecules, suggest the importance of Wnt signaling in bone formation, possibly involving MSCs. To analyze the role of Wnt signaling in mesenchymal osteogenesis, we have profiled the expression of WNTs and their receptors, FRIZZLEDs (FZDs), and several secreted Wnt inhibitors, such as SFRPs, and examined the effect of Wnt 3a, as a representative canonical Wnt member, during MSC osteogenesis in vitro. WNT11, FZD6, SFRP2, and SFRP3 are upregulated during MSC osteogenesis, while WNT9A and FZD7 are downregulated. MSCs also respond to exogenous Wnt 3a, based on increased beta-catenin nuclearization and activation of a Wnt-responsive promoter, and the magnitude of this response depends on the MSC differentiation state. Wnt 3a exposure inhibits MSC osteogenic differentiation, with decreased matrix mineralization and reduced alkaline phosphatase mRNA and activity. Wnt 3a treatment of fully osteogenically differentiated MSCs also suppresses osteoblastic marker gene expression. The Wnt 3a effect is accompanied by increased cell number, resulting from both increased proliferation and decreased apoptosis, particularly during expansion of undifferentiated MSCs. The osteo-suppressive effects of Wnt 3a are fully reversible, i.e., treatment prior to osteogenic induction does not compromise subsequent MSC osteogenesis. The results also showed that sFRP3 treatment attenuates some of the observed Wnt 3a effects on MSCs, and that inhibition of canonical Wnt signaling using a dominant negative TCF1 enhances MSC osteogenesis. Interestingly, expression of Wnt 5a, a non-canonical Wnt member, appeared to promote osteogenesis. Taken together, these findings suggest that canonical Wnt signaling functions in maintaining an undifferentiated, proliferating progenitor MSC population, whereas non-canonical Wnts facilitate osteogenic differentiation. Release from canonical Wnt regulation is a prerequisite for MSC differentiation. Thus, loss-/gain-of-function mutations of LRP5 would perturb Wnt signaling and depress/promote bone formation by affecting the progenitor cell pool. Elucidating Wnt regulation of MSC differentiation is important for their potential application in tissue regeneration.
Unified Superconformal Gauge Theories

Abstract An action principle for a superconformal gauge theory based on the supergroup SU(2, 2| N ) is constructed using a graded Weyl-like geometry. The internal symmetry is U( N ). The theory unifies gravity with other gauge interactions. The explicit gauging of conformal transformations is explored.
A photoemission study of benzotriazole on clean copper and cuprous oxide

Abstract Photoemission spectra of benzotriazole (BTA) chemisorbed on clean Cu and on cuprous oxide were compared with the spectra of condensed- and gas-phase BTA. Chemisorbed BTA bonds to both Cu and Cu 2 O via lone-pair orbitais on the nitrogen ring. The lack of a chemical shift for the π- orbitais indicates that BTA does not lie flat on the surface. We propose a model for the geometry and bonding of chemisorbed BTA which accounts for its corrosion inhibition on Cu, and for the corrosion inhibition, or lack of inhibition, by molecules similar to BTA.
A rationale for the treatment algorithm of failed back surgery syndrome

Failed back surgery syndrome is continued low back pain with or without radicular pain after lumber surgery. The syndrome is difficult to treat due to the variability of pain generators. By examining the anatomy and pathophysiology of the pain mechanisms, a logical progression for an algorithm for treatment is presented.
Disruption of imprinting caused by deletion of the H19 gene region in mice

The imprinted H19 gene, which encodes an untranslated RNA, lies at the end of a cluster of imprinted genes in the mouse. Imprinting of the insulin-2 and insulin-like growth factor 2 genes, which lie about 100 kilobases upstream of H19, can be disrupted by maternal inheritance of a targeted deletion of the H19 gene and its flanking sequence. Animals inheriting the H19 mutation from their mothers are 27% heavier than those inheriting it from their fathers. Paternal inheritance of the disruption has no effect, which presumably reflects the normally silent state of the paternal gene. The somatic overgrowth of heterozygotes for the maternal deletion is attributed to a gain of function of insulin-like growth factor 2, rather than a loss of function of H19.
VEGF-TRAPR1R2 suppresses choroidal neovascularization and VEGF-induced breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a central role in the development of retinal neovascularization and diabetic macular edema. There is also evidence suggesting that VEGF is an important stimulator for choroidal neovascularization. In this study, we investigated the effect of a specific inhibitor of VEGF, VEGF-TRAP(R1R2), in models for these disease processes. VEGF-TRAP(R1R2) is a fusion protein, which combines ligand binding elements taken from the extracellular domains of VEGF receptors 1 and 2 fused to the Fc portion of IgG1. Subcutaneous injections or a single intravitreous injection of VEGF-TRAP(R1R2) strongly suppressed choroidal neovascularization in mice with laser-induced rupture of Bruch's membrane. Subcutaneous injection of VEGF-TRAP(R1R2) also significantly inhibited subretinal neovascularization in transgenic mice that express VEGF in photoreceptors. In two models of VEGF-induced breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier (BRB), one in which recombinant VEGF is injected into the vitreous cavity and one in which VEGF expression is induced in the retina in transgenic mice, VEGF-TRAP(R1R2) significantly reduced breakdown of the BRB. These data confirm that VEGF is a critical stimulus for the development of choroidal neovascularization and indicate that VEGF-TRAP(R1R2) may provide a new agent for consideration for treatment of patients with choroidal neovascularization and diabetic macular edema.
GAS-PHASE CHEMISTRY OF MOLYBDENUM CLUSTERS

The kinetics of reactions of molybdenum clusters, Mon, n=1–25, in the pressure range 0.4–4 Torr, and temperature range 270–380 K, have been investigated using a large-bore, He-buffered, fast-flow reactor equipped with a laser-vaporization source for the production of clusters. The reactor is designed to make kinetic measurements on neutral metal clusters in the gas phase under well-defined pressures and temperatures. We discuss a new version of the instrument in which LIF techniques, used previously to monitor atoms and dimers, are replaced by laser ionization, time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOFMS) in order to monitor larger clusters. The new version of the reactor has been tested against known reactions of Ti atoms. Examples of the reactor’s performance are taken from studies performed on Mon cluster reactivity. In particular we summarize some results on the dissociative chemisorption of molecular nitrogen, where large cluster-size effects are found. In some cases a negative-temperature dependence of the kinetics indicates the involvement of a precursor bound state and leads to conclusions concerning the shape of the potential-energy surface and how subtle changes associated with the cluster’s geometric structure might profoundly alter reaction rates.
Purification and characterisation of polyphenol oxidase from red Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris subspecies cicla) leaves

Abstract We report purification and characterisation of a polyphenol oxidase from red Swiss chard (rcPPO). Our purification procedure resulted in a 39-fold enrichment in specific activity and 17% recovery of total enzyme activity. The purified rcPPO appeared as a monomeric protein of 41 kDa, with a specific conformation conserved in the Cu2+ combining region. It was optimally active at pH 7.5 and 45 °C. It had a diphenolase substrate preference towards l -DOPA, catechol and chlorogenic acid, but also exhibited weak monophenolase one toward 4-methoxyphenol and l -tyrosine. We also found that the enzyme was activated by K+, Na+, SDS and laurouyl sarcosine, but inhibited by divalent cations including Ca2+, Cu2+. Its activity was completely inhibited by ascorbic acid, cysteine, 1,4-dithiothreitol, β-mercaptoethanol, sodium diethyldithiocarbamate, sodium metabisulphite, sodium sulphite and thiourea. This first report on the purification and characterisation of red Swiss chard PPO provides a basis for understanding and use of this enzyme.
Reliability Assessment of Ceramic Column Grid Array (CCGA717) Interconnect Packages under Extreme Temperatures For Space Applications (-185°C to +125°C)©

Ceramic Column Grid Array packages have been increasing in use based on their advantages such as high interconnect density, very good thermal and electrical performance, compatibility with standard surface-mount packaging assembly processes, etc. CCGA packages are used in space applications such as in logics and microprocessor functions, telecommunications, flight avionics, payload electronics, etc. As these packages tend to have less solder joint strain relief than leaded packages, the reliability of CCGA packages is very important for short and long-term space missions. CCGA interconnect electronic package printed wiring boards (PWBs) of polyimide have been assembled, inspected non-destructively and subsequently subjected to extreme temperature thermal cycling to assess the reliability for future deep space, short and long-term, extreme temperature missions. In this investigation, the employed temperature range covers from -185°C to +125°C extreme thermal environments. The test hardware consists of two CCGA717 packages with each package divided into four daisy-chained sections, for a total of eight daisy chains to be monitored. The CCGA717 package is 33 mm × 33 mm with a 27×27 array of 80%/20% Pb/Sn columns on a 1.27 mm pitch. The resistance of daisy-chained, CCGA interconnects were continuously monitored as a function of thermal cycling. Electrical resistance measurements as a function of thermal cycling are reported and the tests to date have shown significant change in daisy chain resistance as a function of thermal cycling. The change in interconnect resistance becomes more noticeable with increasing number of thermal cycles. This paper will describe the experimental test results of CCGA testing under wide extreme temperatures. Standard Weibull analysis tools were used to extract the Weibull parameters to understand the CCGA failures. Optical inspection results clearly indicate that the solder joints of columns with the board and the ceramic package have failed as a function of thermal cycling. The first failure was observed at 137th thermal cycle and 63.2% failures of daisy chains have occurred at about 664 thermal cycles. The shape parameter extracted from Weibull plot was about 1.47 which indicates the failures were related to failures occurred during the flat region or useful life region of standard bath tub curve. Based on this experimental test data one can use the CCGAs for the temperature range studied for ~100 thermal cycles (ΔT = 310°C, 5oC/minute, and 15 minutes dwell) with high degree of confidence for high reliability space and other applications.
Novel rotor-side control scheme for Doubly Fed Induction Generator to ride through grid faults

A simplified transient model of the Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) is used to investigate the effects when the voltage sags impose to the DFIG generation system. It is identified that the symmetrical transient voltage sag creates a DC component in the magnetic field which causes over currents in both the stator and rotor windings. The characteristics of the DC flux component are investigated and new control strategy is presented. Computer simulation is used to verify the expanded ride-through capability of the novel strategy.
The myth of Jewish male menses

Abstract Several scholars have asserted that medieval Christians believed that Jewish men menstruated. Their arguments, made in support of a grander claim that Jews as a collectivity were gendered feminine in Christian thought, rest on numerous misreadings. Though such a belief did appear around 1500, prior references to a Jewish bloody flux derived from textual traditions that were not gendered. The rupturing of Judas's belly (Acts 1:18–19) inspired accounts of heretics and other betrayers of Christ dying with blood and/or guts coming out of their anuses. In the twelfth century this anal bleeding was exegetically linked to Jewish deicidal bloodguilt via the verse ‘may His blood be upon us and upon our children’ (Matt 27:25). In the thirteenth century this motif was rationalized using terms drawn from humoral medicine. Simultaneously, a new verse was adduced in support of the notion of supernatural anal bleeding: ‘He smote His enemies in their posteriors’ (Psalms 77:66). Monthly bleeding was first alleged in 1302, but only among the male descendants of the Jews who had accepted responsibility for the crucifixion. The earliest mention of gendered, monthly bleeding appeared in the 1503 account of the ritual murder trials held in Tymau in 1494.
Cardiac complications in noncardiac surgery: value of dobutamine stress echocardiography versus dipyridamole thallium imaging.

Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the relative value of dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) and dipyridamole thallium imaging (DT) in the preoperative assessment of cardiovascular risk before noncardiac surgery. Design: Prospectively DSE was performed in patients who had undergone DT as a part of their preoperative evaluation. Setting: A large urban veterans' affairs medical center. Participants: Thirty-seven patients undergoing major noncardiac surgery were assessed for complications during a 1-month follow-up period. Interventions: Both DSE and DT were performed before surgery. The medium interval between the two tests were 15.5 days. Measurements: Left ventricular wall motion was assessed at baseline and peak dobutamine dose in a standard fashion. Wall motion was scored and indexed using a 16-segment model. A positive DSE was defined as failure of augmentation, new or worsening of baseline wall motion abnormalities in two or more contiguous segments. Myocardial perfusion studies after DT were performed according to conventional method. A positive DT was defined as a reversible perfusion defect, increased lung uptake, and/or transient left ventricular dilatation. Complications were defined as myocardial infarction or cardiac death occurring as a result of the operation, or need for revascularization before surgery. Results: DSE was positive in 19 patients, whereas DT was positive in 25 patients. Fourteen patients had both an abnormal DSE and DT. Five patients had major postoperative cardiac complications: fatal myocardial infarction (1); fatal cardiac arrest (1); and severe coronary artery disease necessitating coronary artery bypass surgery (2) or percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (1). DSE was positive in all 5 (100%), whereas DT was positive in 4 of 5 (80%) patients with complications. The sensitivity for each test was comparable: for DSE it was 100% (95% C.I. 56% to 100%) and for DT 80% (37% to 96%). Specificity for DSE (60%, 43%–74%) was somewhat higher than DT (38%, 24% to 54%), although this did not reach statistical significance ( p = 0.06). Conclusions: The ability of DSE to predict major cardiac complications related to noncardiac surgery appears to be similar to DT and may be used as an alternative to DT imaging in the preoperative risk assessment of patients undergoing noncardiac surgery.
Guillain-Barré syndrome and other neurologic syndromes in hepatitis A, B, and non-A, non-B.

Guillain-Barre syndrome and other neurologic syndromes occur rarely as complications of viral hepatitis, although a causal association has not been established. Seven cases of serologically documented hepatitis A have been reported with Guillain-Barre syndrome; all recovered, with mild neurologic residua in four. Eight cases of serologically documented acute hepatitis B have been reported with Guillain-Barre syndrome; all recovered, with mild neurologic residua in two. In one case, immune complexes of hepatitis B surface antigen and its antibody were present in the cerebrospinal fluid. Other neurologic syndromes have also been reported in patients with serologically defined viral hepatitis, including mononeuritis, auditory neuritis, and seizures. Chronic hepatitis B and mononeuritis multiplex are found together in 31-54% of patients with periarteritis nodosa. The mechanisms for these associations are unknown, but may include direct cytotoxicity of the virus or immune-mediated damage. Vasculitis of the vasa nervorum plays an intermediate role in at least some cases.
Modeling and analysis methods of bridges and their effects on seismic responses. II: Implementation

Implementation of the theory on the subject discussed in Part I is presented in this part. There are 12 representative continuous bridges considered in the parametric studies. The effects of important system parameters, including modeling technique, analysis method, soil-foundation interaction, and bridge skew on seismic responses are evaluated and discussed in detail.
A wide-beam X-ray source suitable for diffraction enhanced imaging applications

Abstract Research in diffraction-enhanced imaging (DEI), using a synchrotron source with an X-ray flux of 1.4×1012 ph/mm2/s, has shown strong potential in obtaining high-resolution images as compared to conventional radiographs. This research investigates the feasibility of developing a large area circular X-ray source with fluxes comparable to a synchrotron source. The source should be capable of integration into a compact system with peak powers not to exceed 200 kW to be feasible for use in a major medical facility, industrial complex or screening facility (such as cargo or airport). A computational study of a circular concentric filament wide-beam area X-ray source has been investigated in this research. The design features are based on generating electrons from three concentric circular filaments to provide an area electron flux, with a 60 kV accelerating potential and a beam current of up to 3 A. The X-ray target is a grounded stationary oxygen-free copper target with a layer of molybdenum. This target feature differs from standard rotating X-ray targets in conventional X-ray systems. Studies of electron trajectories and their distribution on the target were conducted using the SIMION 3D code. Heat loading and thermal management were studied using heat transfer modules from the coupled FEMLAB multi-physics and MATLAB codes. The Monte Carlo code MCNP 5 was used to obtain the X-ray flux and energy distribution for aluminum and beryllium windows. This computational study shows that this target configuration generates X-rays with photon flux comparable to synchrotron source and sufficient for DEI applications. The maximum target temperature rise is 1357 K after 70 s when cooling the back of the target to liquid nitrogen temperature using cold finger contact, and 325 K for an invaded target, in which liquid nitrogen circulates inside the target.
Failed predation or transportation ? Causes and consequences of phoretic behavior in the pseudoscorpion Dinocheirus arizonensis (Pseudoscorpionida : Chernetidae)

The pseudoscorpion Dinocheirus arizonensisinhabits rotting saguaro cactus in the Sonoran Desert and has also been found attached to the legs of the cactophilic neriid fly, Odontoloxozus longicornis.Laboratory experiments demonstrated a higher incidence of phoresy on eclosing versus postteneral adult flies, a female bias in phoresy, and an increased rate in female phoresy through time. The pseudoscorpion may also prey on the fly, but predation rate was unaffected by fly category, pseudoscorpion gender, or food deprivation. A study of pseudoscorpion colonization in the field indicated that females were the first to colonize and the first to abandon the transient habitat of a saguaro rot and, thus, corroborated patterns of phoretic behavior in the laboratory. Taken together, these results establish that phoresy is a behavior functioning specifically for dispersal. The hypothesis that pseudoscorpion transport by other arthropods is accidental, motivated by hunger, and occurs because pseudoscorpions are incapable of consuming their hosts is rejected.
The extreme ultraviolet albedos of the planet Mercury and of the Moon

The albedo of the moon in the far UV was measured by Mariner 10 at a solar phase angle of 74 deg, and the geometric albedo of Mercury was measured in same wavelength range (584-1657 A) at solar phase angles ranging from 50 to 120 deg. For both the moon and Mercury there is a general increase in albedo for wavelengths decreasing from 1657 to 584 A. The ratio of the albedos of Mercury and the moon increases from about 0.6 to 0.8 in the range 600-1600 A. This merely points to a difference in the surfaces of the moon and Mercury, there being insufficient data to make any conclusions regarding the nature of the difference.
SINGLE-SOURCE RESPONSE BIAS IN THE JOB DIAGNOSTIC SURVEY

Tests of the job characteristics model using the Job Diagnostic Survey have been criticized in the literature for having single-source response bias. To test this criticism, undergraduate and gradu...
An Investigation of Some Important Storage Parameters in Acidified Bulk Storage of Tomatoes

Acidified bulk storage of tomatoes at a pH of approximately 1.3 was used to store whole tomatoes without spoilage for up to 4 months. Storage treatments of time and temperature lead to concurrent off flavor and brown color development which was presumed to be at least partially due to container oxygen permeability problems. Best quality in this study was found after storage at lowered temperatures. When unpeeled tomatoes were stored, they softened during storage and did not remain whole upon subsequent peeling. Heat peeled whole tomatoes stored in tomato juice gave the best storage quality of any treatment combinations used. The major problem experienced with this storage method was non-microbial chemical deterioration of product quality after storage.
Dosing botanical medicines.

(2005). Dosing Botanical Medicines. Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy: Vol. 5, No. 1, pp. 73-78.
Radiological findings in symptomatic internal hernias after laparoscopic gastric bypass.

Background Internal hernias (IHs) can complicate laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). A number of radiological investigations can be used in the diagnosis. These include plain X-rays, upper gastrointestinal (UGI) series, ultrasound, and computed tomography (CT) scanning. We present radiological findings in our series of 58 symptomatic internal hernias based on our 6-year experience (2000-2006) of 2,572 LRYGB patients. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed of all patients undergoing LRYGB who developed symptomatic internal hernia requiring operative intervention between January 1, 2000 and September 15, 2006. Types of radiological tests performed and their results were recorded. Results Fifty-eight symptomatic internal hernias were recorded, of which 56/58 (97%) underwent radiological investigation; 2/58 went directly to surgery. Of the 56 patients who underwent diagnostic imaging, 41 plain abdominal X-rays, 37 CT scans, 26 UGI series, and eight ultrasound scans were performed. Sixty-five percent of UGI series and 92% of CT scans had positive features diagnostic of internal hernia. Performing both CT and UGI series successfully diagnosed IH in 100% of cases. Subgroup analysis did not reveal any association between positive result of imaging test and type of internal hernia. Conclusion CT scanning is the single most effective radiological investigation for diagnosing internal hernias post-LRYGB. In non-diagnostic cases, the addition of an upper GI series increases the diagnostic rate to 100%.
Optimizing the Use of Data Generated by Geriatric Depression Treatment Studies During a Time of Diminishing Resources

This issue contains four papers reporting timely findings about the treatment of late-life depression. Sneed and colleagues report further analysis of data collected in the previously reported “old-old” antidepressant trial to clarify relationships between phenomena identified previously as indicators of the postulated syndromes of “vascular” depression or “depression with executive dysfunction” and response to citalopram during the trial. The findings reported Kondo et al. complement those of Sneed et al. by demonstrating that depressed older adults who have an inactive A1166C polymorphism of the AGTR1 gene for the angiotensin II receptor, a genotype that has been associated with an increased risk for stroke, particularly in the presence of hypertension, had lower 18-month remission rates than patients with the more common allele. The paper by Nelson et al. reports the authors’ own analysis of data from a previously published multicenter industry trial to address the timely clinical question of whether treatment of older persons with a selectiveserotonin-reuptake-inhibitor antidepressant (SSRI) is associated with increased suicidality. Finally, the Gorwood et al. report of a randomized placebocontrolled continuation antidepressant trial represents the more common form of industry-academia collaboration, with the manufacturer playing the dual roles of providing the trial medications and contributing to the data analysis and development of the manuscript, as documented by their coauthorship. The Sneed et al. and Nelson et al. papers demonstrate the “added value” that academic investigators can bring to studies sponsored by industry, while the Kondo et al. study demonstrates the potential for cross-discipline collaboration available at an academic research center to increase the yield from a systematically conducted treatment study. Thus, the contributions by Sneed and his coworkers and Kondo and colleagues demonstrate the benefits of cross-institutional and cross-discipline collaborations made possible by support from the National Institutes of Health and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), specifically. In addition to demonstrating the benefits of crossinstitutional collaboration, the Sneed et al. paper demonstrates the potential synergy achieved when industry involves independent academic investigators in the conceptualization and implementation of a trial supported by a pharmaceutical company. The academic scientists were able to address their individual lines of scientific inquiry while conducting an efficacy trial that carried out the financial mission of the private sector sponsor. In this case, the input and leadership of investigators known for their work on NIMH-funded studies of predictors of treatment resistance among older persons suffering from major depression resulted in the incorporation of neuroimaging procedures and neuropsychological testing in the baseline assessments. As a result, the authors were able to follow-up their primary report of a
Inhibition of glutamate-induced cell death by sodium nitroprusside is not mediated by nitric oxide.

Abstract Pretreatment of primary cultures of cerebellar granule cells with sodium nitroprusside (SNP) protected these neurons from delayed death induced by glutamate and N- methyl- d -aspartate (NMDA). This neuroprotective effect was not mimicked by S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) which like SNP stimulates guanylate cyclase via a nitric oxide (NO) related mechanism. In contrast, neuroprotection was achieved with potassium ferrocyanide, a compound structurally related to SNP, but devoid of NO. On the other hand, kainate-induced neurotoxicity was not protected but potentiated by SNP. This effect of SNP was not mimicked by SNAP, potassium ferrocyanide and potassium ferricyanide. We conclude that neuroprotective properties of SNP on glutamate- and NMDA-induced neurotoxicity are not due to the release of NO and activation of guanylate cyclase, but are determined by the ferrocyanide portion of the SNP molecule.
Frequency selective surface design by integrating optimisation algorithms with fast full wave numerical methods

Previous work on optimisation has primarily focused on the applications of genetic algorithms in conjunction with problem-specific or semi-analytic tools. Recent developments in fast algorithms now offer the possibility of designs and moreover allow for full flexibility in material specification across three dimensions. As an example, the paper combines genetic algorithms with fast hybrid finite-element/boundary-integral simulations to conduct shape optimisation of frequency selective surfaces (FSSs). Optimal shapes for FSS geometries subject to given performance criteria are demonstrated.
On the Origin of the Aurora Borealis

It has been assumed by Birkland, Str\"omer, Vegard and others that the aurora is caused by charged particles from the sun which are diverted to the polar regions by the magnetic field of the earth. There are possible objections to this and it is suggested that the aurora is due to ultra-violet light of the sun which produces ions and electrons in the high atmosphere of the earth above 200 km or so. These diffuse along the magnetic lines of force, concentrate at the magnetic poles of the earth, recombine and in some way yield up their energy to form the aurora. The total aurora energy during a strong display is estimated to be ${10}^{15}$ erg ${\mathrm{sec}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, which is in rough agreement with the energy of the upper spray of photoelectric ionization in the high atmosphere indicated by wireless telegraphy.
Application of characteristic mode analysis to HF low profile vehicular antennas

Low-profile vehicular antennas are electrically small in the near-vertical incidence skywave (NVIS) frequency range (2 - 10 MHz), which makes them inefficient and narrowband. Considering a vehicle to be the largest part of radiating system, the characteristic mode analysis shows that the widest bandwidth is achieved when the horizontal electric dipole current distribution is excited on the vehicle. By applying an edge port excitation it is demonstrated that bandwidth of 24 kHz can be achieved above most realistic grounds at the expense of very low gain at 2 MHz.
Polarization Raman spectroscopy to explain rodent models of brittle bone

Activation Transcription Factor 4 (Atf-4) is essential for osteoblast maturation and proper collagen synthesis. We recently found that these bones demonstrate a rare brittleness phenotype, which is independent of bone strength. We utilized a confocal Renishaw Raman microscope (50x objective; NA=.75) to evaluate embedded, polished cross-sections of mouse tibia from both wild-type and knockout mice at 8 weeks of age (24 mice, n<=8 per group). Analysis of peak ratios indicated statistically significant changes in both mineral and collagen; however, compositional changes did not fully encompass biomechanical differences. To investigate the impact of material organization, we acquired colocalized spectra aligning the polarization angle parallel and perpendicular to the long bone axis from wet intact femurs. To validate our results, we used MMP9-/- mice, which have a brittleness phenotype that is not explained by compositional Raman measures. Polarization angle difference spectra show marked significant changes in orientation of these compositional differences when comparing wild type to knockout bones. Relative to wild-type, Atf4 -/- and MMP9 -/- bones show significant differences (t-test; p<0.05) in prominent collagen peaks. Further investigation of known peak ratios illustrates that this physical anisotropy of molecular organization is tightly clustered in brittle knockout bones. Such findings could have alternate interpretations about net collagen orientation or the angular distribution of collagen molecules. Use of polarization specific Raman measurements has implicated a structural profile that furthers our understanding of models of bone brittleness. Polarization content of Raman spectra may prove significant in future studies of brittle fracture and human fracture risk.
Robust human authentication using appearance and holistic anthropometric features

We propose here decision-level fusion using neural networks and feature-level fusion using boosting for the purpose of robust human authentication vis-a-vis face occlusion and disguise. Holistic anthropometric and appearance-based features feed the data fusion stage. In addition to standard head and face geometric measurements, the proposed holistic anthropometric features include additional measurements below the face to describe the neck and shoulder and their contextual relations to head and face. The appearance-based features include standard PCA or Fisherfaces. Experimental data shows the feasibility and utility of the proposed hybrid (extended geometry+appearance) approach for robust human authentication vis-a-vis occluded and/or degraded face biometrics. The authentication results presented compare favorably against both appearance-based methods and hybrid methods with anthropometric features confined to face and head. The methods proposed can train on clean data and authenticate on corrupt data, or train on corrupt data and authenticate on clean data.
Optical recognition of biological agents

Differentiation between particulate biological agents and non-biological agents is typically performed via a time-consuming "wet chemistry" process or through the use of fluorescent and spectroscopic analysis. However, while these methods can provide definitive recognition of biological agents, many of them have to be performed in a laboratory environment, or are difficult to implement in the field. Optical recognition techniques offer an additional recognition approach that can provide rapid analysis of a material in-situ to identify those materials that may be biological in nature. One possible application is to use these techniques to "screen" suspicious materials and to identify those that are potentially biological in nature. Suspicious materials identified by this screening process can then be analyzed in greater detail using the other, more definitive (but time consuming) analysis techniques. This presentation will describe the results of a feasibility study to determine whether optical pattern recognition techniques can be used to differentiate biological related materials from non-biological materials. As part of this study, feature extraction algorithms were developed utilizing multiple contrast and texture based features to characterize the macroscopic properties of different materials. In addition, several pattern recognition approaches using these features were tested including cluster analysis and neural networks. Test materials included biological agent simulants, biological agent related materials, and non-biological materials (suspicious white powders). Results of a series of feasibility tests will be presented along with a discussion of the potential field applications for these techniques.
Symptomatic Radiation Pneumonitis in Elderly Patients Receiving Thoracic Irradiation

Abstract Purpose Advanced age has been associated with increased risk of radiation pneumonitis. The purpose of this study was to examine the clinical and dosimetric predictors of radiation pneumonitis in elderly patients relative to younger patients treated with thoracic radiation therapy for lung cancer. Methods Two hundred fifty-six consecutive patients with stage I-III small cell and non–small-cell lung cancer treated with definitive radiation with or without concurrent chemotherapy, between 2004 and 2009, were reviewed. Pneumonitis was graded by using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4. Clinical parameters and dosimetric variables were assessed in univariate and multivariate analysis to evaluate predictors of grade ≥2 pneumonitis in patients age ≥70 years and age Results There were 99 patients age ≥70 and 157 patients age 5 Gy ( P = .005) and age ≥70 years ( P = .001) predicted for grade ≥2 pneumonitis, whereas angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor use was associated with decreased risk ( P = .02). Pneumonitis grade ≥3 occurred in 10% (n = 10/99) of patients age ≥70 years and in 1% (n = 1/157) of patients P = .001). In patients with a V 20 Gy >31%, the incidence of grade ≥3 pneumonitis was 33% (n = 4/12) in elderly patients compared with 2% (n = 1/44) in younger patients ( P = .005). Conclusions Elderly patients were observed to have an increased risk of symptomatic pneumonitis. Radiation dose parameters remain useful in this population; however, the threshold for clinically acceptable pneumonitis may be lower than in younger patients. angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors use may mitigate radiation pneumonitis.
Tactile neurons of the superior colliculus of the cat: input and physiological properties.

Abstract Neurons in the strata intermediale and profundum of the cat superior colliculus (SC) previously have been shown to be organized somatotopically and to respond to tactile stimuli. The stimulus properties required for neuronal activation suggest that these neurons are excited by inputs from selected classes of high-velocity, sensitive cutaneous mechanoreceptors, and that stimulus-response relationships indicate only a narrow range of information concerning stimulus magnitude. The properties of these neurons have been interpreted as serving a role in stimulus detection that recovers slowly and may be best suited for directed attention and orientation behavior. The input to the SC was studied by injection of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) for retrograde labeling of neurons projecting to this region. The main inputs subserving the tactile pathway are the principal trigeminal nucleus and the rostral portion of the spinal V subnucleus oralis and the main cuneate nucleus. Sparser labeling was found in other somatic relays, including the gracile and lateral cervical nuclei and posterior portion of the spinal trigeminal complex. Several other projections relating to visual mechanisms are also described.
Rapid analysis of externally reinforced concrete beams using neural networks

Abstract The load-carrying capacity of reinforced concrete beams can be compromised by concrete cracking, and the intrusion of moisture, oxygen and salt that cause corrosion of the steel reinforcement. A relatively inexpensive method of repairing such beams is to bond fiber-reinforced composites to the tensile and shear faces of the beams. Unfortunately, the numeric tools used to analyze such beams (notably, finite element analysis (FEM)) are computationally expensive making them slow to arrive at an answer, especially when dealing with complicated three-dimensional composite forms. An empirical solution is therefore proposed that involves the development of a neural network model of the performance of externally reinforced beams, developed from laboratory observations of actual beam behavior.
Update on Uropharmacology: Bladder Dysfunction, Nitric Oxide, and Reactive Oxygen Species

The role of nitric oxide (NO) in the pathophysiology of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), detrusor overactivity (DO), and overactive bladder symptoms does not seem to be established. As demonstrated in animal models, interference with the NO/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)/cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) pathway at any level (NO synthesis, soluble guanylate cyclase, cGMP, PKG) will lead to DO. One important factor influencing the bladder NO/cGMP/PKG pathway is oxidative stress, in which an abnormal level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) causes tissue damage. ROS may be involved in several bladder pathologies known to show LUTS/DO in animal models, including bladder outlet obstruction, ischemia/reperfusion, and inflammation. The role of ROS in the generation of storage LUTS (including overactive bladder), has not been clarified, though it seems to involve the NO/cGMP/PKG pathway and other mechanisms. To gain further insights into this important field of investigation, new animal models are required to define potential targets for future therapeutic interventions.
Effects of HCM Missense Mutations in the M Domain of Cardiac Myosin Binding Protein C on Calcium Sensitivity of Force and Rate in Rat Trabeculae

Recombinant N-terminal domains of cardiac myosin binding protein C (cMyBP-C) increase calcium-sensitivity of force and the rate of tension redevelopement (ktr) when added to permeabilized rat trabeculae. We previously demonstrated that the regulatory domain of cMyBP-C, referred to as the MyBP-C motif (or “M domain”), is required for these effects. Here we investigated the effects of single amino acid missense substitutions within the M-domain that are associated with human hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) on force development and ktr in permeabilized trabeculae from rat right ventricles. Individual substitutions (R322Q, E330K, V338D, and L348P) were introduced into a recombinant mouse C1C2 protein (encompassing domains C1-M-C2 of murine cMyBP-C) by site directed mutagenesis and effects were compared to wild-type C1C2. All four of the mutations affected the ability of C1C2 to augment force. Whereas 5 μM wild-type C1C2 induced a pronounced leftward shift in Ca2+ sensitivity of tension (∼0.5 pCa units) and increased ktr at all submaximal Ca2+ concentrations, 3 of the mutations reduced the effects of C1C2. Another variant increased the efficacy of C1C2 and increased passive force independent of Ca2+, but reduced maximal Ca2+ activated force. Together these results indicate that cMyBP-C variants associated with HCM could directly disrupt sarcomere contractile properties through gain or loss of functional effects and that at least some cMyBP-C missense mutations may cause disease through a poison polypeptide mechanism. This work is supported by NIH HL080367 to SPH and a DOD NDSEG graduate fellowship to KLB.
Regulated expression of the MRP8 and MRP14 genes in human promyelocytic leukemic HL-60 cells treated with the differentiation-inducing agents mycophenolic acid and 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3

Abstract The calcium-binding proteins MRP8 and MRP14 present in mature monomyelocytic cells are induced during differentiation and may mediate the growth arrest in differentiating HL-60 cells. We determined the levels of a protein complex (PC) containing MRP8 and MRP14 and investigated the mechanism by which the genes encoding these proteins are regulated in HL-60 cells treated with the differentiation-inducing agent mycophenolic acid (MPA). While the PC was barely detectable in untreated cells, MPA treatment resulted in elevated levels of the PC which were maximal at 3-4 days and were found to directly parallel gains in the steady-state levels of MRP8 and MRP14 mRNA. Transcription studies with the use of nuclear run-on experiments revealed increased transcription initiation at the MRP8 and MRP14 promoters after MPA treatment. 1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D 3 , which induces HL-60 cell differentiation by another mechanism, was also found to increase transcription initiation at the MRP8 and MRP14 promoters. Our results suggest that this initiation is the major control of maturation agent-mediated increases in MRP8 and MRP14 gene expression, and supports a role for the PC in terminal differentiation of human monomyelocytic cells.
Changes in posterior corneal elevation after laser in situ keratomileusis enhancement.

Purpose To evaluate changes in posterior corneal elevation using the Pentacam topographer (Oculus) in patients having laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) enhancement. Setting Private practice, Chevy Chase, Maryland, USA. Methods The Pentacam device was used to evaluate the changes in posterior corneal elevation above the best-fit sphere before LASIK enhancement and after LASIK enhancement in 24 eyes. The change in posterior corneal elevation in eyes for which pre-primary LASIK data were available was also evaluated. Results After LASIK enhancement, the mean change in posterior corneal elevation was 5 μm. The mean posterior corneal elevation was 12 ± 7 μm before LASIK enhancement and 16 ± 6 μm after enhancement; the difference was statistically significant (P = .004). In eyes for which pre-primary LASIK data were available, the mean change in posterior corneal elevation after primary LASIK was 2 μm. The mean posterior corneal elevation was 11 ± 5 μm before LASIK enhancement and 11 ± 7 μm after enhancement. Conclusions There was a statistically significant difference in posterior corneal elevation between before LASIK enhancement and after LASIK enhancement. However, the change in posterior corneal elevation was much smaller than previously reported values and below the sensitivity of the Pentacam topographer.
Nonsupportive Peer Norms and Incarceration as HIV Risk Correlates for Young Black Men who have Sex with Men

Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) are at considerable risk for HIV infection. A convenience sample of BMSM (n = 252) attending nightclubs in three North Carolina cities was surveyed to investigate factors associated with unprotected anal intercourse (UAI). About 45% reported UAI in the past 2 months. BMSM who strongly agreed that their male friends used condoms for anal sex were significantly less likely to report any UAI. Recently incarcerated men were significantly more likely to report unprotected insertive anal sex. In secondary analyses, men who reported experiencing discrimination based on their race and nongay identified men reported more favorable peer norms for condom use. Men who reported that their family disapproved of their being gay were more likely to have been incarcerated in the past 2 months. HIV prevention for BMSM must promote supportive peer norms for condom use and address incarceration, racial discrimination, and family disapproval.
SELF-PLAGIARISM AS A SOCIAL WORK CONCERN

Publication ethics in social work have received very little attention. As the research base of the field continues to expand, and as the pressure to publish among academic faculty increases, social work researchers need to examine the ethical issues that can arise in scientific publication, including self-plagiarism and redundant publication. This article examines the issue of self-plagiarism, including "salami-slicing", "text recycling", and duplicate submission. Noting that many researchers may be unaware of publication guidelines, manuscript submission policies were reviewed for 28 major social work journals. Of the journals, 71.43% (n=20) explicitly prohibited simultaneous submissions, and 67.86% (n=19) clearly stated that submitted manuscripts were required to be original. Suggestions are provided to help social work researchers avoid committing intentional and unintentional acts of self-plagiarism and redundant publication.
Spondyloarthropathy with hidradenitis suppurativa.

A 33-YEAR-OLD black man was admitted to The Johns Hopkins Hospital with polyarthritis, rash, and weight loss. The patient had been well until approximately 2.5 years before hospital admission, when he noted the onset of an acneiform rash over his scalp and face and abscesses in his groin and axillae. One year later, he developed pain in both of his hips. The pain soon spread to his knees, ankles, feet, shoulders, and wrists. The affected joints were swollen and tender. His temperature remained normal. Short courses of aspirin and indomethacin failed to bring the patient complete relief. The onset of severe back pain, combined with hours of morning stiffness, caused him increasing difficulty with walking. He had to give up his job as a meat cutter. He presented to the Rheumatology Clinic at Johns Hopkins because of increasing disability from his joint and skin disease, along with a 13.5-kg loss