cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Designing and testing a control unit

A virtual CPU whose control unit is either hard-wired or microcoded and a software simulator of the CPU are presented. The simulator can be used in a computer organization or architecture course and requires students to design circuits to implement the microcode or to define a memory array to generate control signals that interpret a machine language program. Designing the control unit, especially when hard-wired, requires an understanding of circuits, Boolean algebra, Karnaugh maps, and machine language format and use.
Conditional Knockout of the RNA-Binding Protein HuR in CD4 + T Cells Reveals a Gene Dosage Effect on Cytokine Production

The posttranscriptional mechanisms by which RNA binding proteins (RBPs) regulate T-cell differentiation and cytokine production in vivo remain unclear. The RBP HuR binds to labile mRNAs, usually leading to increases in mRNA stability and/or translation. Previous work demonstrated that HuR binds to the mRNAs encoding the Th2 transcription factor trans-acting T-cell-specific transcription factor (GATA-3) and Th2 cytokines interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13, thereby regulating their expression. By using a novel conditional HuR knockout (KO) mouse in which HuR is deleted in activated T cells, we show that Th2-polarized cells from heterozygous HuR conditional (OX40-Cre HuRfl/+) KO mice had decreased steady-state levels of Gata3, Il4 and Il13 mRNAs with little changes at the protein level. Surprisingly, Th2-polarized cells from homozygous HuR conditional (OX40-Cre HuRfl/fl) KO mice showed increased Il2, Il4 and Il13 mRNA and protein via different mechanisms. Specifically, Il4 was transcriptionally upregulated in HuR KO T cells, whereas Il2 and Il13 mRNA stabilities increased. Additionally, when using the standard ovalbumin model of allergic airway inflammation, HuR conditional KO mice mounted a robust inflammatory response similar to mice with wild-type HuR levels. These results reveal a complex differential posttranscriptional regulation of cytokines by HuR in which gene dosage plays an important role. These findings may have significant implications in allergies and asthma, as well as autoimmune diseases and infection.
Mechanism of Tissue Factor Activation on HL-60 Cells

Tissue factor (TF ) procoagulant activity (PCA) on the surface of intact HL-60 cells is encrypted. This latent TF PCA was activated by exposing the cells to ionomycin, a calcium ionophore. Within seconds an increase in TF PCA of greater than 100-fold was observed. The ionomycin effect was blocked by pretreating the cells with calmidazolium, a calmodulin inhibitor. Changes in TF structure and function, coincident with the ionophore-induced increase in TF PCA, were identified. TF-factor VIIa complexes formed on both untreated and ionophore-treated cells, but pseudosubstrate inhibitors only bound to TF-factor VIIa on the ionophore-treated cells. TF PCA was inhibited by reacting cells with sulfosuccinimidyl-6-(biotinamido)hexanoate, and the rate of this reaction increased twofold after cells were exposed to ionomycin. When proteins on the surface of untreated cells, expressing minimal TF PCA, were cross-linked with 3-3′-dithiobis(sulfosuccinimidylpropionate), cross-linked TF dimers were produced. TF cross-linking was prevented by first treating the cells with ionomycin. These results suggest a mechanism for the ionomycin-induced increase in TF PCA. TF activation appears to be a calmodulin-dependent process, which exposes an essential macromolecular substrate binding site on TF, possibly as the result of a change in TF quaternary structure.
Cytophilic Macroglobulin Reactive with Bacterial Protein in Mice Immunized with Ribonucleic Acid-Protein Fractions of Virulent Salmonella typhimurium

Cytophilic macroglobulin was eluted (by heating at 56 C for 60 min) from lymphoid cells of mice immunized with subfractions of virulent Salmonella typhimurium SR-11 or vaccinated with an attenuated strain of S. typhimurium (RIA). No such macroglobulin was present on comparable cell populations from normal or adjuvant-injected mice. Cytophilic macroglobulin was also present in the sera of immunized mice. In mice immunized with RNA and protein-containing subfractions extracted from lysates of S. typhimurium SR-11, the cytophilic macroglobulin was present by 14 days after immunization, whereas it was present by 10 days in mice injected with living attenuated S. typhimurium RIA. This macroglobulin reacts specifically with protein-rich components present in the immunogenic subfractions of the whole bacterial cells and has been demonstrated to facilitate phagocytic uptake of virulent S. typhimurium SR-11. Moreover, a similar protein material was present in broth culture media in which the salmonellae were cultivated. Greater amounts were detectable in older (4 day) cultures.
Increased bone marrow fat in anorexia nervosa.

Context: Although women with anorexia nervosa (AN) have severe depletion of body fat, a paradoxical increase in bone marrow fat has been described. Recent data suggest that marrow fat measured by 1H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) in combination with bone mineral density (BMD) may be more valuable than either parameter alone in detecting bone weakness. Objective: The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of AN on accumulation of marrow fat in spine and femur using 1H-MRS and the relationship between marrow fat, BMD, and body composition in subjects with AN and normal-weight controls. Design: This was a cross-sectional study. Setting: The study was conducted at a referral center. Patients: Patients included 10 women with AN (29.8 ± 7.6 yr) and 10 normal-weight age-matched women (29.2 ± 5.2 yr). Interventions: There were no interventions. Main Outcomes Measure: Marrow fat content of the fourth lumbar vertebra and femur measured by 1H-MRS. BMD of spine and hip measured by dual-energy x-r...
An analytical representation of ternary diffusion paths

Proposes a simple analytical representation of diffusion paths on the basis of 2 parameters characteristic of diffusion paths and applies it to the prediction of experimental diffusion couples in the Cu-Ni-Zn system. Concludes that ternary diffusion paths can be conveniently represented or predicted with the aid of the cross-over composition Y /SUB c/ and the path slope 1/n at that composition. Finds that these parameters are easy to determine from selected experimental couples characterized by different ..delta..C/sub 1//..delta..C/sub 2/ ratios as controlled by terminal alloy compositions. Points out that this procedure avoids the need for the complexity in their use for the prediction of ternary diffusion paths.
Crystal structure of endo-β-N-acetylglucosaminidase H at 1.9 å resolution: active-site geometry and substrate recognition

Abstract Background: Endo- β - N -acetylglucosaminidase H (Endo H), an endoglycosidase secreted by Streptomyces plicatus, hydrolyzes the glycosidic bond between the core N -acetylglucosamine residues of asparagine-linked high-mannose oligosaccharides. Endo H is a commonly used reagent in glycobiology research, including the characterization of oligosaccharides in glycoproteins. On-going crystallographic studies of Endo H and related endoglycosidases are aimed at identifying the molecular features that determine the different substrate specificities of these enzymes. Results The three-dimensional structure of Endo H has been determined to 1.9 a resolution. The overall fold of the enzyme is that of an irregular ( α / β ) 8 -barrel comprising eight β -strand/loop/ α -helix units. Units 5 and 6 have very short loop sections at the top of the molecule and their α -helices are replaced by sections of extended geometry. The loop of unit 2 includes a small two-stranded antiparallel β -sheet. A shallow curved cleft runs across the surface of the molecule from the area of units 5 and 6, over the core of the β -barrel to the area of the β -sheet of loop 2. This cleft contains the putative catalytic residues Asp130 and Glu132 above the core of the β -barrel. These residues are surrounded by several aromatic residues. The loop 2 area of the cleft is formed by neutral polar residues, mostly asparagines. Conclusion The structure of Endo H is very similar to that of Endo F 1 , a closely related endoglycosidase secreted by Flavobacterium meningosepticum. Detailed comparison of the structures of Endo H and Endo F 1 supports the model previously proposed for substrate binding and recognition, in which the area of loop 2 determines the substrate specificity and the α -helices of units 5 and 6 are missing to accommodate the protein moiety of the substrate.
Genetic variation for anemotaxis (wind-directed movement) in laboratory and wild-caught populations of Drosophilia.

Two strains ofDrosophila melanogaster were selected for anemotactic response for six generations—one line for upwind response and one line for downwind response. A realized heritability estimate ofh2=0.131 ±0.029 was obtained for the upwind response, and a realized heritability estimate ofh2=0.012±0.014 was obtained for the downwind response. The divergent selection estimate wash2=0.031±0.013. These values are consistent with previously reported heritability estimates for phototaxis and geotaxis, and serve to suggest that wind-oriented movement can be rapidly modified by selection under different habitat conditions. A comparison of wind response among wild-caught individuals of 11 species shows significant response differences between closely related species. Evaluation of these differences in light of the ecology of the flies suggests that upwind movement occurs among the monophagous species, which must move long distances to find their specific feeding sites, while downwind movement is more typical of polyphagous species. Species which are found in riparian or montane forest conditions showed a general reluctance to move under windy conditions. This corresponds to previous observations on these species and reflects the absence of wind generally encountered by these species during their natural periods of activity.
Climate change during 1985–1999: Cloud interactions determined from satellite measurements

[1] We have extended two recent studies that present evidence for significant decadal variability in the top-of-atmosphere (TOA) tropical radiative energy budget by combining satellite measurements of the TOA energy budget and cloud cover with measurements of the Earth's surface temperature. The domain studied is from 40°S to 40°N. As in the prior studies, which were restricted to lower latitudes, there is a significant increase in the TOA outgoing longwave radiation during the period 1985 to 1999 together with an increase in solar (shortwave) radiation absorbed by the climate system. It is suggested that these changes are related to an observed reduction in cloud cover.
Thiolation for labeling of proteins, using catalysis by silver and imidazole combined.

Abstract 1. 1.|Compounds containing primary amino groups could be thiolated rapidly at pH 7.5–8 by N -acetylhomocysteine thiolactone with catalysis by Ag + and imidazole present together. 2. 2.|Using equimolar thiolactone and Ag + the characteristics of these reagent mixtures at varying ratios of imidazole were investigated. Suggestions are made as to the species present in the course of these reactions. 3. 3.|Hydrolysis of the thiolactone competed with aminolysis and limited acylation of amino compounds. The extent of acylation was measured on glycine and was improved by increasing the concentration of Ag + and thiolactone (equimolar) but not by increasing the relative imidazole content, which somewhat increased the rates. 4. 4.|Rabbit γ-globulin was extensively thiolated using 0.3 M Ag + and thiolactone, with 2 and with 8 equiv of imidazole. For comparison, globulin thiolated with catalysis by imidazole alone was also extensively (although slowly) acylated but lost many of the thiol groups in the absence of the protecting Ag + . 5. 5.|A procedure for protein thiolations is given, and factors governing the choice of the reagent mixtures are discussed.
The Secret Dream World of Ángela Carballino in Unamuno's San Manuel Bueno, mártir

Critics have long held that Miguel de Unamuno’s San Manuel Bueno, martir concerns a village priest, Manuel Bueno, who suppresses his private doubts in order to preserve the happiness and simple faith of his parishioners. Notwithstanding critical tradition, a close look at the novella reveals that Manuel belongs to the secret dream world of its first-person narrator, Angela Carballino. This paper peers into the hidden world of a protagonist who becomes a mother through her dreams.
Use of clomiphene citrate to reverse premature andropause secondary to steroid abuse.

Abstract Objective To report a case of symptomatic hypogonadism induced by the abuse of multiple steroid preparations that was subsequently reversed by clomiphene. Design Case report. Setting University-affiliated andrology practice within family practice clinic. Patient(s) A 30-year-old male. Intervention(s) Clomiphene citrate, 100-mg challenge for 5 days, followed by treatment at same dose for 2 months. Main outcome measure(s) Clinical symptoms, androgen decline in aging male questionnaire, total T, FSH, LH. Result(s) Reversal of symptoms, normalization of T levels with LH surge, restoration of pituitary–gonadal axis. Conclusion(s) Clomiphene citrate is used typically in helping to restore fertility in females. This represents the first case report of the successful use of clomiphene to restore T levels and the pituitary–gonadal axis in a male patient. The axis was previously shut off with multiple anabolic steroid abuse.
Biological-mereological coincidence

This paper presents and defends an account of the coincidence of biological organisms with mereological sums of their material components. That is, an organism and the sum of its material components are distinct material objects existing in the same place at the same time. Instead of relying on historical or modal differences to show how such coincident entities are distinct, this paper argues that there is a class of physiological properties of biological organisms that their coincident mereological sums do not have. The account answers some of the most pressing objections to coincidence, for example the so-called “grounding problem”, that material coincidence seems to require that coinciding objects have modal differences that do not supervene on any other properties.
Adjustment costs and investment in a stochastic endogenous growth model

Abstract This paper introduces costly investment into a stochastic equilibrium macro model. Investment is determined by an endogenously determined Tobin- q that depends upon the structural parameters of the economy. The model permits a sequence of economies, allowing for an increasing role of government, to be studied. The effects of both a structural change, taking the form of a higher variance of productivity shocks, and fiscal policy on the equilibrium is analyzed, paying particular attention to the impact on the growth rate and its variability. The role of the Tobin- q in determining the response of the mean growth rate and its variance is emphasized.
Geriatric Medicine: A Multidisciplinary Training and Education Model in an Acute Care Medical Center

A description of a comprehensive multidisciplinary education and training program in geriatrics in an acute care hospital is presented. A brief review of the history of medical education in geriatrics is examined, and the need for and potential of a hospital-based training program is discussed. The methods used in implementing an education program that attracts house staff physicians and other health professionals are described. The program incorporates the application of a multidisciplinary team model of patient assessment and treatment, which is augmented by clinical bedside teaching and a broad-based educational program. Using hospital-wide faculty, the program includes a geriatrics/gerontology lecture series incorporating presentations on the biopsychosocial aspects of aging and a diversity of subjects relevant to aging. Other programs such as weekly house staff topic sessions on aging, interdisciplinary research seminars, orientations, and special symposia are all part of the education program.
Healthy Brain Aging: Effect of Head Injury, Alcohol and Environmental Toxins

Head injury has been recognized as an increasingly important determinant of late-life cognitive function. Despite a large number of research and clinical studies, no direct link has been established between minor head trauma with or without loss of consciousness and the development of dementia of the Alzheimer type. Similarly for alcohol, low doses have been found to be somewhat protective against dementia, whereas large doses increased the risk of late-life cognitive dysfunction. Among the many environmental toxins suspected of causing cognitive dysfunction, lead intoxication has the strongest evidence to support a link.
Integrated Impactor/Detector for a High-Throughput Explosive-Trace Detection Portal

The design of a very-high-flow-rate inertial particle impactor with integrated sampling for use in a walk-through explosive-trace detection portal is presented. This impactor is designed to collect particles of explosives from the aerodynamic wake of a walking subject, which requires a sampling capability of ~ 1m3/s and must reliably collect particles of ≥ 5-μm diameter. An impactor cross-section of 0.3 × 0.3 m was used, with three linear slot nozzles and corresponding impactor blades. The central impactor blade has a rotating impaction surface with an integrated heater for automated thermal desorption of the impacted material. An ion mobility spectrometer is used to interrogate the desorbed vapor for trace explosives detection. The process of sampling a subject and interrogating its aerodynamic wake for explosives requires about 8 s totally, allowing very-high throughput sampling for security-screening purposes.
On totally positive sequences and functions

Abstract Let a > 0 be a fixed number. A function f : R → R is said to be a-shift-generating (a-SG) if for every x ∈ R , { f ( a n − x ) } n = − ∞ ∞ is a totally positive sequence and it does not coincide with a sequence of the form { A λ n } n = − ∞ ∞ , where A ⩾ 0 and λ > 0 . In this paper, we describe all a-SG functions and obtain a new characterization of totally positive functions in the terms of a-SG functions. In addition, using characteristic properties of a-SG functions, we generalize the famous Jacobian identity in theory of elliptic functions.
DREAMS: SEX DIFFERENCES IN AGGRESSIVE CONTENT.

Summary The dream series of 42 male college students and 42 female college students were analyzed for occurrence of aggressive actions in terms of (a) frequency, (b) direction, whether initiated from the dreamer or directed to the dreamer, (c) characters in the dream who were aggressors or victims, and (d) intensity. These variables were further analyzed in terms of their occurrence in the men's dreams and then, in the women's dreams with these results: The analysis of dreams for sex differences in aggression shows that (a) men are more aggressive than, and initiate more aggression than the women, (b) men and women do not differ in amount of aggressive actions they receive, (c) men exceed the women in average intensity of aggression, and exceed the women in aggression initiated or received by them in dreams. Men initiate as much aggression as they receive. Aggressive actions received by the men are more intense than those they initiated. The men involve as their most frequent aggressors or victims, (a) ma...
The whats and hows of programmers' foraging diets

One of the least studied areas of Information Foraging Theory is diet: the information foragers choose to seek. For example, do foragers choose solely based on cost, or do they stubbornly pursue certain diets regardless of cost? Do their debugging strategies vary with their diets? To investigate "what" and "how" questions like these for the domain of software debugging, we qualitatively analyzed 9 professional developers' foraging goals, goal patterns, and strategies. Participants spent 50% of their time foraging. Of their foraging, 58% fell into distinct dietary patterns - mostly in patterns not previously discussed in the literature. In general, programmers' foraging strategies leaned more heavily toward enrichment than we expected, but different strategies aligned with different goal types. These and our other findings help fill the gap as to what programmers' dietary goals are and how their strategies relate to those goals.
STOCHASTIC MODELING OF LOSS- AND GAIN-OF-FUNCTION MUTATIONS IN CANCER

Here we review some spatial and non-spatial stochastic methods developed to study the dynamics of cancer progression. We illustrate the methodology with applications to the two most common patterns in cancer initiation and progression: loss-of-function and gain-of-function mutations. An example of a gain-of-function mutation is an activation of an oncogene; for such mutations we are interested in the process of mutant take-over. An example of a loss-of-function mutation is an inactivation of a tumor suppressor gene; for such processes we calculate the rate of production of double-hit mutants. We consider three stochastic models of cell populations with a constant size: a simple mass-action model, a spatial model and a hierarchical model which contains stem cells and daughter cells. Interestingly, the process of mutation accumulation and spread develops differently in different models. This suggests that simple mass-action models can be misleading when studying cancer dynamics. Moreover, our results also allow us to think about various types of tissue architecture and its protective role against cancer. In particular, we show that hierarchical tissue organization lowers the risk of cancerous transformations. Also, cellular motility and long-range signaling can decrease the risk of cancer in solid tissues.
Prx1 and Prx2 cooperatively regulate the morphogenesis of the medial region of the mandibular process

Mice lacking both Prx1 and Prx2 display severe abnormalities in the mandible. Our analysis showed that complete loss of Prx gene products leads to growth abnormalities in the mandibular processes evident as early as embryonic day (E) 10.5 associated with changes in the survival of the mesenchyme in the medial region. Changes in the gene expression in the medial and lateral regions were related to gradual loss of a subpopulation of mesenchyme in the medial region expressing eHand. Our analysis also showed that Prx gene products are required for the initiation and maintenance of chondrogenesis and terminal differentiation of the chondrocytes in the caudal and rostral ends of Meckel's cartilage. The fusion of the mandibular processes in the Prx1/Prx2 double mutants is caused by accelerated ossification. These observations together show that, during mandibular morphogenesis, Prx gene products play multiple roles including the cell survival, the region-specific terminal differentiation of Meckelian chondrocytes and osteogenesis.
Long bone growth in western Eskimo and Aleut skeletons

The pattern of long bone growth in Eskimo and Aleut juvenile skeletons reflects that in living Eskimos and Aleuts. There is a pre-adolescent growth spurt which is particularly intense in females. After age 14 male long bones supercede those of females in length. The characteristic Eskimo and Aleut adult body proportion is established early in childhood. Eskimos and Aleuts have shorter bones than whites at all ages. The difference in length of the forearm and lower leg in comparison with whites appears to increase especially at adolescence.
Transient Reflection of Plane Waves from a Lorentz Medium Half Space

The time-domain reflection coefficient for a plane wave obliquely incident on a Lorentz-medium half space is determined analytically by inversion of the Laplace-domain reflection coefficient. The case of non-unity optical permittivity is considered, with both TE and TM-polarized incident waves. The resulting expressions contain only the convolution of simple functions whose behavior may be predicted from the material parameters and the incidence angle. The time-domain expressions are validated numerically by comparison with the inverse fast Fourier transform of the frequency-domain reflection coefficient.
Balancing cationic and hydrophobic content of PEGylated siRNA polyplexes enhances endosome escape, stability, blood circulation time, and bioactivity in vivo.

A family of pH-responsive diblock polymers composed of poly[(ethylene glycol)-b-[(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate)-co-(butyl methacrylate)], PEG-(DMAEMA-co-BMA), was reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) synthesized with 0–75 mol % BMA in the second polymer block. The relative mole % of DMAEMA and BMA was varied in order to identify a polymer that can be used to formulate PEGylated, siRNA-loaded polyplex nanoparticles (NPs) with an optimized balance of cationic and hydrophobic content in the NP core based on siRNA packaging, cytocompatibility, blood circulation half-life, endosomal escape, and in vivo bioactivity. The polymer with 50:50 mol % of DMAEMA:BMA (polymer “50B”) in the RAFT-polymerized block efficiently condensed siRNA into 100 nm NPs that displayed pH-dependent membrane disruptive behavior finely tuned for endosomal escape. In vitro delivery of siRNA with polymer 50B produced up to 94% protein-level knockdown of the model gene luciferase. The PEG corona of the NPs blocked ...
Ion-exchanged pillared clays for selective catalytic reduction of NO by ethylene in the presence of oxygen

Abstract Ion-exchanged pillared clays (PILCs) were studied as catalysts for selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of NO by ethylene. Three most important pillared clays, Al 2 O 3 -PILC (or Al-PILC), ZrO 2 -PILC (or Zr-PILC) and TiO 2 -PILC (or Ti-PILC), were synthesized. Cation exchanges were performed to prepare the following catalysts: Cu–Ti-PILC, Cu–Al-PILC, Cu–Zr-PILC, Cu–Al–Laponite, Fe–Ti-PILC, Ce–Ti-PILC, Ce–Ti-PILC, Co–Ti-PILC, Ag–Ti-PILC and Ga–Ti-PILC. Cu–Ti-PILC showed the highest activities at temperatures below 370°C, while Cu–Al-PILC was most active at above 370°C, and both catalysts were substantially more active than Cu-ZSM-5. No detectable N 2 O was formed by all of these catalysts. H 2 O and SO 2 only slightly deactivated the SCR activity of Cu–Ti-PILC, whereas severe deactivation was observed for Cu-ZSM-5. The catalytic activity of Cu–Ti-PILC was found to depend on the method and amount of copper loading. The catalytic activity increased with copper content until it reached 245% ion-exchange. The doping of 0.5 wt% Ce 2 O 3 on Cu–Ti-PILC increased the activities from 10% to 30% while 1.0 wt% of Ce 2 O 3 decreased the activity of Cu–Ti-PILC due to pore plugging. Cu–Ti-PILC was found to be an excellent catalyst for NO SCR by NH 3 , but inactive when CH 4 was used as the reducing agent. Subjecting the Cu–Ti-PILC catalyst to 5% H 2 0 and 50 ppm SO 2 at 700°C for 2 h only slightly decreased its activity. TPR results showed that the overexchanged (245%) PILC sample contained Cu 2+ , Cu + and CuO. The TPR temperatures for the Cu–Ti-PILC were substantially lower than that for Cu-ZSM-5, indicating easier redox on the PILC catalyst and hence higher SCR activity.
A Pressor Substance Produced by Anaerobic Autolysis of Renal Cortex

ConclusionThe above experiments show that anaerobic auto-lysis of renal cortex or cell-free cortical extract of the dog produces a powerful heat stable pressor substance that passes through a collodion membrane. This substance is not obtained from kidney medulla that has been subjected to the same conditions. Oxygen inhibits the formation of the pressor substance. The pressor action is manifest immediately after intravenous administration and it is greater and more sustained in hypertensive than in normal dogs. Increased quantities of pressor substance are produced as the anaerobic period is prolonged. The pressor substance is formed just as well in a substrate-free medium as in plasma.
THE EFFECT OF THE ESTROGENIC HORMONE ON EXPERIMENTAL TUBERCULOSIS

FOR MANY years the course of certain infections has been observed to Fvary(OR MANY)periodically with the menses. It is particularly well known that some skin affections suffer an exacerbation before the menstrual periods. Herpes labialis is especially common at this time, in some cases occurring with great regularity. Dermatitis of the scalp may vary in the same manner. Acne vulgaris is prone to occur at the menarche, and frequently is worse preceding the menstrual periods. There are a number of papers relating to ‘acute menstrual articular rheumatism’ and to premenstrual exacerbations of erysipelas. Numerous other examples of menstrual exacerbations of acute infectious diseases have been reported. In some the relation is well known, i n others less obvious. Much of the literature has been summarised by Novak (1) in his monograph on menstruation.
IgA immune complexes in patients with dermatitis herpetiformis occur in the absence of IgA rheumatoid factor.

Abstract Thirty to forty percent of patients with dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) have IgA-containing circulating immune complexes (IgA-CIC); however, the antigenic composition of these complexes as well as the role they play in the pathogenesis of DH are unknown. The failure to detect wheat protein in these IgA-CIC, despite the association of DH with gluten-sensitive enteropathy, suggests that the IgA-CIC in DH may be similar to those seen in the IgA nephropathies and represent IgA rheumatoid factor (RF)-IgG complexes. We have examined the sera of 32 patients with DH, 16 non-DH patients positive for RF by latex fixation, and 15 normal subjects for IgA and IgM RF using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) and for IgA-CIC using an anti-C3 ELISA. Thirteen of 16 (81%) latex fixation test-positive patients had IgA RF by ELISA and 15/16 (94%) had IgM RF by ELISA. The total amount of RF detected by the ELISA (IgA + IgM RF) correlated with the latex fixation titer ( r = 0.678, p = 0.004) in these latex fixation-positive patients. Six of the 16 (38%) latex fixation-positive patients also were found to have IgA-CIC. Solid phase absorption using goat antihuman C3 decreased the levels of immune complexes but not the level of IgA RF, suggesting the IgA-CIC detected do not represent uncomplexed IgA RF. In contrast, although 12 of 31 (39%) patients with DH had IgA-CIC ranging in amount from 0.331-26.0 μg IgA/ml (nl
Psychosocial and physical correlates of chronic depression

This study used a case-control design to address differences in psychosocial, physical and clinical profiles between subjects who presented with a chronic index episode of major depression and those who presented with a non-chronic index episode. Subjects were adult patients participating in the Duke University Mental Health Clinical Research Center (MHCRC) for the Study of Depression in Later Life. Cases (N = 88) who reported duration of depressive symptoms lasting ≥24 months at enrollment were compared to controls (N = 354) who reported symptoms lasting 1–12 months. The groups were compared with respect to selected demographic and clinical variables, physical function deficits, medical comorbidity, social support constructs and number of recent stressful life events. Social support and physical health were more relevant to chronicity of major depressive illness than were severity of illness or family history. Older age (> 60 years) intensified the deleterious effect of recent negative life events and reduced the deleterious effect of functional impairment on chronic major depression. These findings require special emphasis where treatment for chronic major depression is divorced from considerations of the social environment and functional capacity.
Solid-state NMR measurement of Ψ in peptides: a NCCN 2Q-heteronuclear local field experiment

Abstract A solid-state NMR experiment is presented for measuring Ψ torsion angles in (15N–13Cα–13CO–15N)-labeled peptides. Creation of 13Cα–13CO double-quantum coherence (DQC) is followed by selective evolution under 15N–13C dipolar interactions. The time-course of 13Cα–13CO DQC dephasing is sensitive to the Ψ torsion angle, particularly for values associated with β-sheet secondary structure (120–180°). We apply the technique to glycylglycine⋅HCl and extract a value for Ψ that matches the diffraction-determined value (Ψ=162.1°C) with a precision of ±5°.
The Embarrassing Adam’s Apple, Compromised Masculinity, and Hope: The Case of Norman Rockwell

Taking its cue from Norman Rockwell’s embarrassment regarding his protruding Adam’s apple, this article focuses on the role that this embarrassment played in his development of a sense of “compromised masculinity” (Halpern 2006). This focus is informed by a discussion of the Adam’s apple from a historical and medical point of view, and by a consideration of Rockwell’s work as an artist. The article concludes with an exploration of his painting Freedom of Speech and its role in his turning of a perceived physical liability into a psychological strength and of its implications for a view of Rockwell as an agent of hope.
The View from the Hill: Legislative Perceptions Of the District

This article addresses legislative perceptions of constituents' interests and develops a theory of perception that highlights the role of information accessibility in the formation of legislative offices' views of their districts. I used original data regarding health policy in the U.S. House to analyze perceptions of constituents' interests. I found that legislators do not see all constituents in their district, nor do they see the largest constituencies. Rather, legislators are more likely to see active and resource-rich constituents. These findings provide unique evidence of the influence of money in Congress and suggest that legislative misperception is both common and systematically biased.
Anxiety, Depression, and Exercise

Experimental and clinical investigations of the effects of acute and chronic exercise on state anxiety or tension and depression are reviewed. Proposed explanations for the association of exercise with improved mood states are also discussed.
Neutral and Ionic Supramolecular Structures of Unsaturated Dicarboxylic Acids and Acridine: Significance of Molecular Geometry and Proton Transfer

Six supramolecular structures exhibiting distinct architectures have been prepared from acridine and different dicarboxylic acids. The co-crystallization of acridine (1) and configurational isomers of dicarboxylic acids such as cis,trans-muconic (a) and trans,trans-muconic acid (b), or fumaric (c) and maleic acid (d) provided strikingly different packing motifs and properties. The supramolecular structures have been rationalized based on the molecular geometry and the constituent synthons. Co-crystallization of acridine and b, c, or terephthalic acid (e) gave neutral assemblies stabilized by the O-H···N hydrogen-bond synthon I. Acridine was found to undergo proton transfer with a, d, and acetylenedicarboxylic acid (f) to form ionic supramolecular structures exhibiting synthon II, i.e. charge-assisted carboxylate-acridinium O−···H−N+-hydrogen bonding. The packing mode of 1+·a− has been inferred from the corresponding acridine-isophthalic acid analog based on the superimposable structure of the acids and the common charge-assisted hydrogen bonding motif. Acetylenedicarboxylic and cis,trans-muconic acid favor the formation of antiparallel acridinium π-stacks stabilized by alternating hydrogen bonds with two infinite anionic chains of dicarboxylic acids that also undergo head-to-tail hydrogen bonding. Because of their different structure and geometry, b, c, d, and e form less uniform packing arrangements with 1. Fumaric and trans,trans-muconic acid afford 2:1 neutral co-crystals with parallel acridine rings that are stabilized by π−π-interactions, whereas terephthalic acid favors association of antiparallel acridine dimers to adopt a different one-dimensional network. By contrast, d undergoes intramolecular hydrogen bonding which leaves only one carboxyl group available to form a 1:1 ionic supramolecular structure with 1. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2004)
Cross sections for atomic K-shell ionization by ion impact in the single-particle Glauber approximation

Total cross sections have been computed for $K$-shell ionization in selected multielectron atoms by proton impact using the single-particle Glauber approximation with hydrogenic wave functions. Our single-particle Glauber approximation corresponds to an independent-particle model where explicit coupling with target electrons not directly involved in the interaction is omitted. In principle, the Glauber approximation is valid over a wider region of scattering parameters than is the Born approximation. However, our Glauber results are not in significantly better agreement with observation than simpler Born predictions. For all targets considered at projectile velocities near the peak of the cross section, single-particle Glauber results tend to lie beneath observed cross sections by proton impact, in contrast to previous results for electron impact where, as expected, Glauber results are in better agreement with observations than Born results for low-${Z}_{2}$ targets. Some explanations of the discrepancy and possible extensions of our methods are considered. It is also found that, as the atomic number of the target, ${Z}_{2}$, increases, the relative contribution of Glauber corrections to corresponding Born calculations decreases at projectile velocities near and above the peak of the $K$-shell ionization cross section. For ${Z}_{2}\ensuremath{\gtrsim}5$, the Glauber scattering corrections to Born results for $K$-shell ionization at projectile velocities near and above the peak of the cross section are less than a few percent, e.g., less than errors due to our use of hydrogenic target wave functions. For ${\mathrm{O}}^{+8}$ + Ne, unlike ${p}^{+}$ +Ne, significant differences are apparent between Glauber and Born predictions for direct Coulomb ionization.
Climatology of Surface Cyclone Tracks Associated with Large Central and Eastern U.S. Snowstorms, 1950–2000

Abstract The 241 largest snowstorms over the eastern two-thirds of the United States during 1950–2000 exhibited considerable temporal variability ranging from 1 storm in three winters to 10 storms in 1993/94. The peak decadal frequency was 55 storms (1950s), and the minimum was 45 storms (1970s and 1980s). The east–north-central region experienced the greatest number of large snowstorms (148) followed by the west–north-central (136) and central (133) regions. Regional trends were different. Assessment of surface cyclone tracks associated with the large snowstorms identified three primary tracks: one was located from the leeward side of the south-central Rocky Mountains east-northeast toward the Great Lakes; a second was from the lower Mississippi River basin northeastward toward the Great Lakes; and a third was along the coastal mid-Atlantic region northeast toward Maine. Temporal differences in the frequency of certain surface cyclone tracks were related to the decadal trends in regional large snowstorm ...
A Meta-Analysis of Obesity Interventions Among U.S. Minority Children

Abstract Purpose To quantitatively evaluate the efficacy of interventions designed to prevent or treat obesity among U.S. minority children using meta-analytic techniques. Methods A total of 40 intervention trials involving 10,725 children aged 6–19 years were examined. Results Interventions with more components showed a higher mean effect size than those with fewer components: among 32 controlled trials, d = .07 for one-component (n = 6); d = .08 for two-component (n = 15); d = .33 for three-component (n = 10); and d = .71 for four-component (n = 1) interventions. Interventions with parental involvement (n = 22, d = .21) and lifestyle interventions (n = 14, d = .34) showed a greater mean effect size than those without parental involvement (n = 10, d = .05) or lifestyle interventions (n = 18, d = .04), despite the fact that their 90% confidence intervals overlapped. Among uncontrolled trials (n = 8), two-component interventions (n = 5) yielded d = .86 and three-component interventions (n = 3) yielded d = .96. Conclusions Evidence indicates that, among U.S. minority children, obesity interventions with three or more components might be more efficacious than those using fewer components. Parental involvement, lifestyle change, culturally-based adaptation, and interactive computer programs seem to show promise in the reduction of obese minority children.
The retinal vasculature and function of the neural retina in a rat model of retinopathy of prematurity.

PURPOSE. In a rat model of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), the retinal vasculature and function of the neural retina were studied longitudinally. Vascular and neural parameters were evaluated for significant relationships. METHODS. Retinopathy was induced by exposing newborn rats to alternating 50% and 10% oxygen until age 14 days. To evaluate the function of the neural retina, electroretinographic (ERG) responses to full-field stimuli were recorded from dark-adapted rats at ages 18 and 31 days. Sensitivity and saturated amplitude of photoreceptor and postreceptor activity were derived from ERG a- and b- waves. To evaluate the retinal vasculature, digital fundus photographs were obtained at the same ages, and the tortuosity indices of the arterioles (TI A ) and venules (TI V ) were calculated. ROP rats and room-air-raised control animals were compared. Vascular and response parameters were evaluated for significant relationships. RESULTS. In ROP rats, TI A was high at 18 days and decreased in every rat to nearly normal levels by 31 days. TI V was less affected by ROP or age. Deficits in all receptor and post-receptor response parameters were present in 18-day-old ROP rats. Post-receptor sensitivity recovered completely by 31 days. Deficits in other response parameters persisted. No significant correlations between vascular and ERG parameters were found in 18-day-old ROP rats. CONCLUSIONS. Noninvasive, longitudinal measures in this model of ROP showed significant abnormalities in both the retinal vasculature and function of the neural retina that were most marked at age 18 days. However, vascular and neural abnormalities did not correlate.
Involvement of the MEKK1 signaling pathway in the regulation of epicardial cell behavior by hyaluronan

During embryonic development, cells comprising the outermost layer of the heart or epicardium play a critical role in the formation of the coronary vasculature. Thus, uncovering the molecular mechanisms that govern epicardial cell behavior is imperative to better understand the etiology of cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we investigated the function of hyaluronan (HA), a major component of the extracellular matrix, in the modulation of epicardial signaling. We show that stimulation of epicardial cells with high molecular weight HA (HMW-HA) promotes the association of MEKK1 with the HA receptor CD44 and induces MEKK1 phosphorylation. This leads to the activation of two distinct pathways, one ERK-dependent and another NFkappaB-dependent. Furthermore, HMW-HA stimulates epicardial cells to differentiate and invade, as suggested by increased vimentin expression and enhanced invasion through a collagen matrix. Blockade of CD44, transfection with a kinase-inactive MEKK1 construct or the use of ERK1/2 and NFkappaB inhibitors significantly abrogates the invasive response to HMW-HA. Together, these findings suggest an important role for HA in the regulation of epicardial cell fate via activation of MEKK1 signaling cascades.
Sexual orientation issues in adolescent girls

T he majority of what is written about homosexuality and heterosexuality is about adult men. Only recently have the issues of the gay adolescent been addressed, but even these efforts have pertained mainly to gay adolescent males. For instance, the increased incidence of completed suicide in homosexual male adolescents has attracted attention, 1,2 as has their high risk of contacting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including AIDS.3 Our society is ambivalent about sexual expression in the young, and erotophobia also contributes to a lack of information about sexual behavior and feelings in adolescents. It is extraordinary that national data on adolescent same-sex behavior do not exist, even in this decade of heightened AIDS awareness.3 We are confronting here the combined effects of sexism (because the sexuality of males has attracted more scientific attention than that of females), homophobia (irrational fear and hatred of homosexuality) and socially conseroative views about sex on knowledge about sexual orientation in adolescent girls. Of necessity, then, these comments will be preliminary and based on limited information, because such information is all that is available. Think for a moment about how differently heterosexual men act from heterosexual women. Gender identity and gender role behavior as well as other differences in how sex is experienced-whether these differences are biologically determined or socially acquired-are enormously determinative of behavior. That a man and a woman are both heterosexual does not imply that they are alike in their sexual behavior and their feelings about it. I want to make the same point about homosexual individuals, specifically in this case, about homosexual adolescents: Although it is true that same-sex erotic behavior in male teenagers shares some similarities with same-sex behavior in female teenagers, it is absolutely necessary to think of adolescent girls who engage in same-sex sexual behavior with reference to their female counterparts who are engaging in opposite-sex sexual behavior. In other words, in many ways, it is more important that the adolescent is female than that she is gay (or at least, demonstrates some same-sex attractions or behavior). My discussion is complicated by the fact that the concepts of heterosex© 1994 by The Jacobs Institute of Women's Health 1049-3867/941$7.00
Findings in Creativity and Relevance in Civil Engineering

National needs, world power restructuring, and global problems demand creative solutions and innovative strategies. Creativity is the generation of ideas that are novel to the individual or to the group involved in the task. Creative productivity depends on the depth and breadth of information and on the individual's capacity for unrestricted thinking. Akin to the creative act, there is also a creative attitude, which can be stimulated or inhibited. The study of the personalities of creative individuals has revealed common cognitive and motivational traits. Neurological explanations for most of these phenomena are still lacking, however, findings already point to the importance of nurturing the brain at all ages. Several steps have been recognized in the creative process. The same steps are identified in the scientific method, and in a wide range of engineering methods. Inhibitors and stimulators of creativity can be readily found in the practice of civil engineering. Computer systems can be designed to s...