cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cooperative Transcription Factor Complexes in Control

The cornerstone of transcriptional regulation is the binding of transcription factors to regulatory elements in DNA. The fine-tuning of this process is almost universally achieved through the formation of “enhanceosomes,” assemblies of DNA-binding proteins that are stabilized by an intricate network of protein-protein and DNA-protein contacts. The power of such cooperative interactions is now highlighted by four recent studies ( 1 – 4 ), including the report by Glasmacher et al. on page 975 in this issue. Together, these studies demonstrate that a cooperative complex formed by a monomer of the interferon regulatory factor (IRF) family of transcription factors and a heterodimer of the activator protein–1 (AP-1) Jun and B cell activating transcription factor (BATF) has a major role in lineage specification and function in cells of the immune system.
QUALITY RESPONSE OF ‘BING’ AND ‘RAINIER’ SWEET CHERRIES TO LOW DOSE ELECTRON BEAM IRRADIATION

‘Bing’ and ‘Rainier’ sweet cherries were irradiated at doses of 0.00, 0.15, 0.30, 0.60 and 0.90 kGy using a linear accelerator. Cherries were evaluated for quality immediately after treatment and again after 14 days storage at 1C. No variation in soluble solids, titratable acidity or flavor were noted at any of the irradiation doses. Defects were increased for ‘Rainier’ cherries at irradiation doses above 0.60 kGy, but no change in defects of ‘Bing’ cherries were present regardless of irradiation doses. Objective color of ‘Bing’ cherries was lighter with more red at irradiation doses greater than 0.30 kGy, but this change in color was not evident visually. Objective color of ‘Rainier’ cherries was reduced at irradiation doses of 0.60 kGy and greater. This reduction in ‘Rainier’ red color was evident visually at an irradiation dose of 0.90 kGy. No change in ‘Bing’ green stem color was evident, but ‘Rainier’ stem color improved at irradiation doses above 0.60 kGy. Firmness of both ‘Bing’ and ‘Rainier’ cherries was reduced at irradiation doses of 0.60 kGy and greater. By using the linear accelerator at doses of 0.60 kGy or less, ‘Bing’ and ‘Rainier’ cherries can be irradiated with no major quality loss to meet quarantine requirements.
Folded-path weighting function for a high-frequency spherical wave

Analysis of signal characteristics observed in the receiving plane of an optical beam has yielded information about the turbulence characteristics and cross winds over the propagation path. The measurements are generally made over relatively short paths, near the ground, with a laser at one end and one or more detectors situated at the opposite end of the propagation path. In some cases it may be desirable to have the laser and detectors at the same location. This can be accomplished by use of a reflector at the far end of the path to direct the transmitted energy back to the detectors. In a previous publication, the characteristics were developed for the optical filter function appropriate to a high-frequency plane wave propagating over a folded path. The purpose of this communication is to extend the previous analysis to the case of a spherical wave propagating over a folded path. In particular, an expression is developed showing the dependence of the observed amplitude covariance on the spectral density of the turbulence and the path geometry.
The mechanical properties of tubular solid oxide fuel cells

The mechanical strength of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) components is one of the key issues for determining their performance and reliability. A minimum strength is required for the handling of these components in manufacturing, namely in relation to the application of the electrode or electrolyte coatings, the application of the current collection metals and the construction of the stack. Small tubular SOFCs have been found to have excellent thermal shock properties and low-cost of fabrication through traditional extrusion techniques. The mechanical integrity of the small, thin walled, tubular ceramics could be tested using traditional 3 or 4-point bending techniques, however these techniques are liable to cause failure by crushing the tube wall. Thus, a more reliable method for realizing the strength of small thin walled tubes is to pressurize the inside volume and obtain the strength value at which the tube bursts under the internal pressure. A custom burst-test instrument was constructed to obtain the average strength value of differing types of small ceramic tubes. The mechanical properties of 8 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia (8YSZ) and NiO-YSZ tubes were investigated and are discussed. An average burst strength of 97 ± 28 MPa was observed for 8YSZ electrolyte tubes and 72 ± 23 MPa and 70 ± 16 MPa for as-sintered and reduced anode support tubes, respectively.
The Resilience Activation Framework: a conceptual model of how access to social resources promotes adaptation and rapid recovery in post-disaster settings

A number of governmental agencies have called for enhancing citizens’ resilience as a means of preparing populations in advance of disasters, and as a counterbalance to social and individual vulnerabilities. This increasing scholarly, policy, and programmatic interest in promoting individual and communal resilience presents a challenge to the research and practice communities: to develop a translational framework that can accommodate multidisciplinary scientific perspectives into a single, applied model. The Resilience Activation Framework provides a basis for testing how access to social resources, such as formal and informal social support and help, promotes positive adaptation or reduced psychopathology among individuals and communities exposed to the acute collective stressors associated with disasters, whether human-made, natural, or technological in origin. Articulating the mechanisms by which access to social resources activate and sustain resilience capacities for optimal mental health outcomes post-disaster can lead to the development of effective preventive and early intervention programs.
Somatic response to stress, physical symptoms and health service use

Abstract Individual response patterns during stress have become a topic of increasing interest. Two studies were conducted to test the hypotheses that individuals with a somatic response pattern would: (1) experience a higher frequency of physical symptoms; (2) experience greater sleep disturbance; and (3) utilize an available health service facility more frequently. In Study 1 somatic/cognitive responding, physical symptoms and sleep disturbance were measured at the end of the S s' senior year in college. Health service use was ascertained by examining health service records for the S s' 4 yrs in college. In Study 2 somatic/cognitive responding, an expanded set of physical symptoms and depression were measured at the beginning of S s' freshman year. Health service use was ascertained by examining health service records at the end of the freshman year. The findings support the hypotheses that somatic responding to stress is associated with a greater frequency of physical symptoms, sleep disturbance and health service use. These findings cannot be attributed to general anxiety or depression. Controlling for depression, however, greatly attenuated the difference between high and low somatic responders in health service use.
Pilot trial of tumor-specific peptide vaccination and continuous infusion interleukin-2 in patients with recurrent Ewing sarcoma and alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma: an inter-institute NIH study.

Background Patients with recurrent Ewing sarcoma and alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma have poor prognoses and limited therapeutic options. We have investigated the use of peptide pulsed vaccination in an attempt to immunologically target the breakpoint region of tumor specific fusion proteins expressed in these tumors. Procedure Sixteen patients with recurrent, translocation positive, Ewing sarcoma, and alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma underwent apheresis for collection of peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Following countercurrent centrifugal elutriation, an apheresis product comprised predominantly of monocytes but containing small numbers of circulating immature dendritic cells was pulsed with peptides derived from the breakpoint region of the fusion proteins. Vaccines were administered intravenously concomitant with continuous intravenous rhIL-2 at 9 × 106 IU/m2/day. Results Toxicity was limited to IL-2 related effects and was generally mild. Following vaccination, all patients showed progressive disease, most in a rapid fashion following the first vaccine. One patient showed evidence of an immunologic response and another showed a mixed clinical response. Patients enrolled on this tumor vaccine trial showed significant immunosuppression and large bulky tumors. Conclusions Peptide vaccination as administered in this trial did not alter the dismal clinical outcome for patients with recurrent pediatric sarcomas. Future trials of tumor vaccines in this population should target patient populations with improved immune competence and smaller tumor burdens. Furthermore, optimization of the antigen presenting cell populations may be important for inducing immune responses to peptide antigens. Med Pediatr Oncol 2002;38:158–164. Published 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Acrylamide electrophoresis and protein pattern during morphogenesis in a slime mould.

ADVANCES in the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying morphogenesis have often necessarily depended on improvement or development of appropriate biochemical analytical techniques, which are adaptable to the particular biological material under investigation. It is fortunate that the basic procedure utilizing acrylamide electrophoresis, heretofore used successfully in the elucidation of protein patterns in various organisms and tissues such as Neurospora1, serum protein2, etc., can be extended to the slime mould. This technique coupled with experimentation on such primitive organisms as the slime mould, Physarum polycephalum3, shows promise of leading to a correlation of change of specific protein with morphological change as the organism completes its life-cycle.
Increased mortality associated with EMS transport of gunshot wound victims when compared to private vehicle transport

Abstract Background Recent studies suggest that mode of transport affects survival in penetrating trauma patients. We hypothesised that there is wide variation in transport mode for patients with gunshot wounds (GSW) and there may be a mortality difference for GSW patients transported by emergency medical services (EMS) vs. private vehicle (PV). Study design We studied adult (≥16 years) GSW patients in the National Trauma Data Bank (2007–2010). Level 1 and 2 trauma centres (TC) receiving ≥50 GSW patients per year were included. Proportions of patients arriving by each transport mode for each TC were examined. In-hospital mortality was compared between the two groups, PV and EMS, using multivariable regression analyses. Models were adjusted for patient demographics, injury severity, and were adjusted for clustering by facility. Results 74,187 GSW patients were treated at 182 TCs. The majority (76%) were transported by EMS while 12.6% were transported by PV. By individual TC, the proportion of patients transported by each category varied widely: EMS (median 78%, interquartile range (IQR) 66–85%), PV (median 11%, IQR 7–17%), or others (median 7%, IQR 2–18%). Unadjusted mortality was significantly different between PV and EMS (2.1% vs. 9.7%, p Conclusions Wide variation exists in transport mode for GSW patients across the United States. Mortality may be higher for GSW patients transported by EMS when compared to private vehicle transport. Further studies should be performed to examine this question.
Personal computer process loop simulator

Abstract Simulation is an important tool used in the design, testing, and evaluation of process controller designs. Simulation is used to exercise controllers under realistic conditions and thus demonstrate how a controller will perform in the field. The simulator described in this paper is implemented using a desk top personal computer and models the various components of a process loop including the final control, the process, and the measurement elements. Each element in the simulated process loop can be configured to model a first, second, or higher order system response. Also, each element in the process loop can be designed to incorporate dead times, disturbances, and noise to reflect conditions that are encountered in the field.
Nanostructured dielectric layer - A new approach to design nanostructured solar cells

Nanostructures have been widely used in solar cells due to their extraordinary optical management properties. However, due to the poor junction quality and large surface recombination velocity, typical nanostructured solar cells are not efficient. Here we demonstrate a new approach to design and fabricate whole-wafer nanostructures on dielectric layer for solar cell application. The design, simulation, fabrication and characterization of nanostructured dielectric layer silicon solar cells are presented. The optical simulation results illustrate that the periodic nanostructure array on dielectric materials suppresses the reflection and enhances the absorption over a wide spectral range. Reflection measurements show that reflection can be suppressed below 10% for a wide range of solar spectrum and incident angle. The current density-voltage (J-V) characterization shows that the short circuit current is improved by 44%. Our results suggest this nanostructured dielectric layer has the potential to significantly improve solar cell performance and avoid typical problems of defects and surface recombination for nanostructured solar cells, thus providing a new pathway towards realizing high-efficiency and low-cost solar cells.
A Perfluoroaryl-Cysteine SNAr Chemistry Approach to Unprotected Peptide Stapling

We report the discovery of a facile transformation between perfluoroaromatic molecules and a cysteine thiolate, which is arylated at room temperature. This new approach enabled us to selectively modify cysteine residues in unprotected peptides, providing access to variants containing rigid perfluoroaromatic staples. This stapling modification performed on a peptide sequence designed to bind the C-terminal domain of an HIV-1 capsid assembly polyprotein (C-CA) showed enhancement in binding, cell permeability, and proteolytic stability properties, as compared to the unstapled analog. Importantly, chemical stability of the formed staples allowed us to use this motif in the native chemical ligation-mediated synthesis of a small protein affibody that is capable of binding the human epidermal growth factor 2 receptor.
Robust 2-D/3-D registration of CT volumes with contrast-enhanced X-ray sequences in electrophysiology based on a weighted similarity measure and sequential subspace optimization

2-D X-ray image navigation during an electrophysiology ablation procedure can be enhanced via the overlay of images derived from pre-operative 3-D data, to provide anatomical details that otherwise are not visible under X-ray. However, accurate registration of 3-D data and 2-D X-ray during electrophysiology ablation is a challenging problem, due to the relatively low image quality and the fact that the contrast medium typically fills only a small part of the left atrium in X-ray images. In this paper, we propose a robust 2-D/3-D registration method tailored for electrophysiology ablation procedures. In particular, a weighted similarity measure is utilized to handle the partial data problem, and a sequential subspace optimization is proposed to take advantage of the available bi-plane X-ray images, for a robust and efficient registration. Since the contrast medium washes out quickly and thus visible in only a small number of frames in the X-ray sequence, we furthermore streamline the workflow by automatically detecting the frame that is optimal for registration purpose. Experimental results on seven clinical data sets demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Cytochemical analysis of the notochord in early rhesus monkey embryos

Functional differentiation of the notochord in rhesus monkey embryos at stages 11-12 (25-28 days of gestation) was analyzed by means of ultrastructural cytochemistry. The notochordal cells exhibited well developed Golgi complexes, rough endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, and numerous coated vesicles. Large irregular intercellular spaces were common, and some contained fibrils and particulate matter similar to that observed in the perinotochordal space immediately surrounding the notochord. With the glycogen-specific thiocarbohydrazide-silver proteinate technique, solitary particles as well as large aggregates of glycogen were present within the notochordal cells. The center of some aggregates was electron lucent and contained collapsed membranous structures. The results indicate that as early as stage 11 the nonhuman primate notochord exhibits ultrastructural features suggestive of secretory activity and cytological complexity.
Stimulation of lipogenesis in thyroid tissue in vitro by free fatty acids

RECENTLY, it has been demonstrated that some of the in vitro actions of certain pituitary hormones on adipose tissue can be reproduced by simple supplementation of the suspending medium with albumin-complexed free fatty acids1. This has prompted a more generalized analysis of the effects of free fatty acids on the metabolism of surviving preparations of target endocrine glands. We have incubated slices of sheep and human thyroid tissue at 38° C. and pH 7.4 in modified Krebs–Ringer tris-phosphate or Krebs–Ringer bicarbonate2 containing 2 mgm./ml. of uniformly labelled glucose (glucose-U-14C), 10 mgm./ml. of fat-free bovine albumin3, and varying quantities of sodium oleate. Direct chemical analysis4 disclosed that such exogenous supplementation with oleate augmented the thyroidal pool of free fatty acids. The associated striking increases in lipogenesis from glucose-U-14C form the basis of the present report.
Median arcuate ligament syndrome: open celiac artery reconstruction and ligament division after endovascular failure.

Median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) is a rare disorder resulting from extrinsic compression and narrowing of the celiac artery, and—less often—the superior mesenteric artery, by the relatively low insertion of the ligament and/or prominent fibrous bands or ganglionic periaortic tissue of the celiac nervous plexus. We report on a young woman who after three consecutive attempts of endovascular therapy with balloon angioplasty and stenting for MALS, each followed by gross symptom recurrence and a cumulative weight loss of 10 kg, underwent open surgical division of the ligament and reconstruction of the celiac artery. Despite the initial response of MALS to endovascular therapy, the extrinsic pressure exerted on the celiac artery by the surrounding dense fibrous/ganglionic tissue resulted in slippage of the stents and/or failure of their material. These findings militate against the use of balloon angioplasty and stenting primarily in patients with MALS without prior release of the extrinsic compression on the celiac (and/or superior mesenteric) artery by dividing the surrounding median arcuate ligament and/or ganglionic tissue with open or laparoscopic surgery.
Evolution in the Body of HIV Nursing Knowledge

The role nurses occupy in the care of the HIV/AIDS affected has evolved over time. This evolution is exhibited in the body of nursing knowledge and is recorded in the published literature. The purpose of this study was to describe landmarks in the evolution of nursing's involvement in the provision of care to HIV/AIDS patients and to examine the body of nursing knowledge relative to HIV/AIDS, employing bibliometric analytic techniques. It was expected that the literature would grow in both breadth and depth concurrent with nursing's increased role in caring for those infected, or at risk for infection, with HIV.
Identification and management of an errant antiperistaltic roux limb after total gastrectomy

We recently evaluated two patients because of persistent, unexplained bilious vomiting following total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y esophagojejunostomy. With the aid of intestinal manometry and reoperation, an antiperistaltic Roux limb was discovered in both cases. Isoperistaltic repositioning of the Roux limb led to resolution of both patients’ symptoms. These case reports illustrate the devastating consequences of a poorly constructed Roux-en-Y esophagojejunostomy and demonstrate the utility of intestinal manometry in aiding the diagnosis of problems related to the Roux limb, particularly when surgical reexploration is not preferred or is inconclusive. By highlighting this avoidable technical error, we hope to prevent its future occurrence.
Towards resolving conflicting reports of radiation-induced genomic instability in populations exposed to ionizing radiation: Implications for the hibakusha

Abstract Radiation-induced genomic instability has been demonstrated in numerous in vitro model systems. This instability can manifest as chromosomal changes, gene amplifications and mutations, micronuclei formation, transformation, and reduced plating efficiency and occurs in the progeny of an irradiated cell generations after the initial insult. However, reports of induced genomic instability in humans exposed to ionizing radiation are contradictory. We will review the evidence for and against induced chromosomal instability in radiation exposed human populations. In an attempt to reconcile these conflicting observations, we propose that analysis of potential chromosomal instability in blood samples from normal healthy individuals, irrespective of their radiation history, is unlikely to reveal evidence of induced instability because observable dynamic genomic changes would be inconsistent with a normal healthy phenotype.
Hibernation in the Western Jumping Mouse (Zapus princeps)

Seasonal activity, fat deposition, and the hibernation cycle of the western jumping mouse ( Zapus princeps ) were studied at 2,900 m, 2,500 m, and 2,010 m elevation in the Wasatch National Forest, Utah. Laboratory groups established from all three sites were studied for fat deposition and weight gain with respect to diets, photoperiod, and temperature. The hibernation cycle, occurrence of arousals, weight and fat loss were studied in the laboratory and related to field parameters. The hiber-nacula of 26 animals were found at a mean depth of 59 cm. They contained no cached food reserves. The mean soil temperature throughout the hibernation period was 4.6°C. Emergence of Zapus princeps from hibernation is cued by increasing soil temperature. All field and laboratory populations emerged from hibernation when the temperature of the hibernaculum was between 8.0° and 9.5°C. Animals entered hibernation with 55 to 70% of dry body weight in fat. Weight increased prior to hibernation at an average rate of 0.65 g/day with a maximum of 2.1 g/day. Animals hibernating in the laboratory and in the field lost weight at an average rate of 0.07 g/day. Experiments showed that neither photoperiod nor temperature acts to cue fat deposition. The critical factor for fat deposition is the availability of seeds in the diet.
Angiosarcoma of the Aorta Associated with a Dacron Graft

Abstract The case report of a patient with an angiosarcoma arising near a Dacron aortic graft is presented with a review of the literature. Antemortem diagnosis of primary malignancies of the aorta and large arteries is seldom attained. The tumorigenic potential of plastic grafts is an etiological consideration.
Swing Check Valve Design Criteria and CFD Validation

This paper provides information on swing check valve selection criteria suitable for nuclear power plant applications. In this project, four swing check valves were analyzed to demonstrate the implementation and application of this information. In this example, swing check valves were selected according to “ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section III” [1] and “ASME B16.34, Valves Flanged, Threaded, and Welding End” [2]. This paper also discusses the utilization of Computational Fluid Dynamics Software (CFD) as a means to analyze valve design. The use of CFD is a relatively new approach for validation of valve design that is becoming invaluable due to the high cost of physical bench testing. The Instrument Society of America (ISA) Analysis Division and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Computational Fluid Dynamics Technical Committee have taken a proactive approach in setting standards and practices for the use of CFD in design and validation.
Data from the Northern Finland 1966 Birth Cohort support an association between depression and immune function.

In 1966, researchers in Finland commenced an amazing prospective epidemiological study of an unselected, genetically homogeneous general population. They studied 96% of all women (n=12 068), with an expected date of delivery falling between 1st January and 31st December in 1966, in the two northernmost Finnish provinces. For that 1966 Birth Cohort study, a variety of biological, socioeconomic and health-related conditions as well as living habits and family characteristics of the cohort members were collected prospectively. In a 31-year follow-up study, Timonen et al studied the association between atopy and depression in 6025 individuals (see pp xxx–xxx). It is remarkable that 50% success rate could be achieved in a 31-year follow-up of an entire and homogeneous population.
Abdominal CT in the evaluation of small cell carcinoma of the lung

Upper abdominal CT scans were performed on 45 consecutive patients with biopsy proven but previously untreated small cell carcinoma of the lung. Evidence of metastases was found in 16 (36%) patients. The most common site of metastases was the liver (27%). CT had a sensitivity of 88% and specificity of 94% as compared with biopsy results. Evidence of retroperitoneal metastases was found in seven (16%) patients.
Scalability in urban autonomy through overlapping decompositions of hybrid-state systems

This study investigates the issue of scalability for autonomous vehicles and systems in urban environments. As the number of agents such as infrastructure elements and communication-capable vehicles increases, the systems that are designed to sense/track/control these agents get burdened under the increased number of tracks/measurements. By employing the concept of overlapping decompositions, it is possible to divide and parallelize the workload, with limited degradation of overall system performance. The paper demonstrates this methodology on simple urban scenarios, involving autonomy of infrastructure elements and autonomous vehicle interactions.
The Use of Fibric Acid Derivatives in Cardiovascular Prevention

Clinical trials have demonstrated the benefit of reduction of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in the prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Evidence is less robust for the effect of reduction of triglyceride levels and increase of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels. In spite of the decrease of cardiovascular events in trials of LDL cholesterol–lowering medications, considerable residual risk remains, even with the use of high-dose statins. The fibric acid derivatives or fibrates reduce triglyceride and increase HDL cholesterol levels, effects that would be expected to affect cardiovascular events. However, clinical outcomes trials with fibrates have shown mixed results. Post-hoc analyses of fibrate trials as well as several meta-analyses suggest an overall decrease in primarily non-fatal coronary events without decrease in total mortality. The effects are most apparent in patients with elevated triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol levels. Statin therapy is the treatment of choice for most patients with dyslipidemia. The addition of a fibrate appears to be most beneficial in high-risk patients who continue to have significant dyslipidemia on statin therapy, most notably patients with diabetes mellitus or the metabolic syndrome. Thus, fibrates are not first-line drugs, but they do have a place in the management of the atherogenic lipid profile.
Testosterone and Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF) I Interact in Controlling IGF-Binding Protein Production in Androgen-Responsive Foreskin Fibroblasts

The growth of the male external genitalia is primarily regulated by androgens. However, human genital fibroblast growth is also stimulated by insulin-like growth factor (IGF) I. In this study, we report that IGF-binding protein (IGFBP) production in human foreskin fibroblasts is regulated by androgens and IGF-I. Human foreskin fibroblasts secrete IGFBP-3, IGFBP-4, and IGFBP-5. IGF-I increased the abundance of both intact IGFBP-3 and -5 in the culture medium. Testosterone increased IGFBP-3, and the combination of IGF-I and testosterone had an additive effect. Following its secretion, IGFBP-5 was degraded, but the effect of IGF-I on IGFBP-5 peptide abundance in conditioned media did not seem to be due to inhibition of proteolysis. Testosterone had no effect on IGFBP-5 degradation. Intact IGFBP-4 was decreased by IGF-I, and the combination resulted in a similar reduction. The mechanism seemed to be decreased synthesis, since IGFBP-4 messenger RNA was also decreased. The increase in IGFBP-5 synthesis was associated with an increase in the abundance of intact IGFBP-5 in the extracellular matrix. The combination of testosterone and IGF-I resulted in a synergistic stimulation of total protein synthesis by the fibroblast cultures, suggesting that a maximum anabolic response requires both hormones. These observations suggest that combined exposure to androgen and IGF-I altered the abundance of some forms of IGFBPs and that the IGFBPs that are regulated may play a role in modulating the effects of IGF-I on the anabolic response.
Detection and in vivo hormonal regulation of rat ovarian type I and type II interleukin-I receptor mRNAs: increased expression during the periovulatory period.

OBJECTIVE To study the expression, localization, and in vivo hormonal regulation of type I and type II interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptors in the rat ovary. METHODS Segments of the cDNAs for rat type I and type II IL-1 receptors were cloned and used as probes in RNase protection assays and in situ hybridization. Tissues obtained from immature rats and hormonally treated rat ovaries were examined. RESULTS Type I IL-1 receptor (IL-1R(1)) was ubiquitously expressed in rat tissues, including granulosa cells prepared from immature ovaries, whereas type II IL-1 receptor (IL-1R(2)) expression was restricted to macrophages, thymus, and lung. Hypophysectomy and subsequent treatment with FSH and/or diethylstilbestrol did not alter significantly the abundance of IL-1R(1) transcripts in the whole ovary. However, the relative amount of ovarian IL-1R(1) transcripts increased 7.3-fold 6 hours after the administration of hCG to pregnant mare serum gonadotropin-primed immature rats. During this time, IL-1R(1) mRNA was localized primarily in the granulosa cells. The increased expression of IL-1R(1) persisted 24 hours after hCG administration but declined to baseline by 48 hours. Ovarian expression of IL-1R(2) mRNA was observed only before ovulation in amounts that were approximately 70-fold lower than IL-1R(1). CONCLUSION The increased intraovarian expression of IL-1R(1) in granulosa cells during the periovulatory period implies that this cell type has a heightened receptivity to IL-1 and provides further indirect evidence that this cytokine is involved in the ovulatory process.
The mechanism of prostaglandin action on the early pregnant human uterus.

Abstract The concentrations of 15 methyl PGF2α, progesterone and estradiol in the peripheral plasma were assayed sequentially and the resting and active pressures of the uterus were quantitated in 10 first trimester pregnant patients, treated with a vaginal suppository containing 3 mg U-36,384. The purpose of the study was to determine the sequence of the prostaglandin induced changes in regulatory profile and uterine function and thus expose further the mechanism of prostaglandin action. The temporal relationships of the changes revealed that the primary action of exogenous prostaglandin is the disruption of the normal endocrine function of the conceptus and that the delayed oxytocic effect of this compound is secondary, a consequence of the primary action. Apparently prostaglandins are only effective as postconceptional agents if they convert the refractory normal pregnant uterus into a reactive organ. The academic and therapeutic significance of this finding is discussed.
Acid‐catalyzed alcoholysis of soybean oil

In an effort to increase utilization of fats and oils with high concentrations of FFA, acid catalysts were investigated at elevated temperatures to determine their efficacy under various operating conditions. Acid-catalyzed alcoholysis of soybean oil using sulfuric, hydrochloric, formic, acetic, and nitric acids was evaluated at 0.1 and 1 wt% loadings at temperatures of 100 and 120°C in sealed ampules, but only sulfuric acid was effective. Kinetic studies at 100°C, 0.5 wt% sulfuric acid catalyst, and nine times methanol stoichiometry provide >99 wt% conversion of TG in 8 h and less than 0.8 wt% FFA concentrations at less than 4 h. Reaction conditions near 100°C at 0.1 to 0.5 wt% were identified as providing the necessary conversions in a 24-h batch cycle while not darkening the product as is typical with high temperatures and catalyst loadings. The oxygen/air contained in the reaction ampules at the onset of the reaction was not sufficient to color the product, but the product darkened if atmospheric air contacted the reacting mixture. The presence of small amounts of stainless steel significantly decreased conversions.
Increased particulate partitioning of PKCε reverses susceptibility of phospholamban knockout hearts to ischemic injury

Abstract Cytosolic Ca2+ overload is a critical mediator of myocardial damage following cardiac ischemia–reperfusion. It has therefore been proposed that normalization of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ cycling through inhibition or ablation of the Ca2+ ATP-ase inhibitor phospholamban (PLN), which shows promise as a treatment for heart failure, could be beneficial in ischemic heart disease. However, a recent study has shown that globally ischemic PLN-deficient hearts exhibit increased ischemic injury, with impaired contractile, ATP, and phosphocreatine recoveries, compared to wild-type hearts. Since protein kinase C (PKC) family members are widely recognized as mediators of both post-ischemic injury and ischemic preconditioning, we assessed PKC levels in PLN-deficient hearts. Compared to genetically normal hearts, PLN-deficient hearts exhibited diminished particulate partitioning of PKCe, a known cardioprotective PKC isoform, without alterations in the levels of membrane-associated PKCδ nor PKCα. To determine if decreased particulate partitioning of cardioprotective PKCe was a cause of increased ischemic injury in PLN-deficient hearts, PLN-deficient mice were mated with mice expressing a myocardial-specific PKCe translocation activator peptide, pseudo-epsilon receptor for activated kinase C (ψeRACK). In ψeRACK/PLN knockout (KO) hearts, PKCe translocation to membranous cellular structures was augmented and this was associated with a significant acceleration of post-ischemic contraction and relaxation rates, as well as reduction of creatine phosphokinase release, compared to PLN-deficient hearts. Importantly, post-ischemic functional recovery reached pre-ischemic hyperdynamic values in ψeRACK/PLN KO hearts, indicating super-rescue by the combination of PLN ablation and ψeRACK expression. These findings suggest that diminished PKCe particulate partitioning in PLN-deficient hearts is associated with attenuated contractile recovery upon ischemia–reperfusion and that increased translocation of PKCe to membranous cellular structures confers full cardioprotection.
Osteoma cutis: Computed tomography appearance

Subcutaneous ossification of the lower extremities and chronic venous stasis has been described in the radiologic literature. The computed tomography appearance has been recently described. We present a case of osteoma cutis presenting as a discrete inflammatory mass of a lower extremity with correlation of plain radiographic, computed tomographic, and histologic findings.
Recurrence of Acute Myocardial Infarction in Patients Discharged on Clopidogrel and a Proton Pump Inhibitor After Stent Placement for Acute Myocardial Infarction

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the readmission rate for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients discharged on clopidogrel and a proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) versus patients discharged on clopidogrel alone after experiencing an AMI and undergoing stent placement. Clopidogrel is a prodrug that requires metabolism in the liver by the cytochrome P450 system (CYP450), in particular cytochrome P450 2C19 (CYP2C19).1 Recent studies have suggested that medications metabolized by CYP450, such as PPIs, influence the effect of clopidogrel on platelet function2,3 with an increased risk of cardiovascular events.4,5 PPIs are often administered with clopidogrel due to the increased bleeding risk of dual antiplatelet therapy, a strategy endorsed by existing consensus guidelines.6 Hypothesis: Treatment with a PPI in combination with clopidogrel would increase the risk of readmission for an AMI after stent placement for AMI. Methods: We collected data on all patients discharged on clopidogrel after stent placement for an AMI between January 2003 and January 2008. Patients were followed for 1 year after their index hospitalization for readmission for an AMI. Rates of readmission were determined for those discharged on clopidogrel alone versus those discharged on clopidogrel and a PPI. Results: Patients discharged on clopidogrel and a PPI had higher rates of readmission for AMI within 1 year of stent implantation for AMI. Conclusions: Patients discharged on clopidogrel and a PPI, including esomeprazole and pantoprazole, seem to be at an increased risk of recurrent AMI within 1 year after stent placement for an AMI. Copyright © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Politics of Songs: Myths and Symbols in the Chinese Communist War Music, 1937-1949

Nie Er (1912–1935), a young Communist musician from Yunnan, could not possibly have imagined that when he wrote this patriotic song (with lyrics by the left-wing writer Tian Han [1898–1968]) for the 1935 film Children of Troubled Times (Fengyun ernu) it would soon become one of the most popular tunes in China. The overwhelming success of the song reflected a nation, long frustrated by imperialist (especially Japanese) aggression, thwarted reforms, domestic armed conflicts, and government ineptitude, venting its anger and crying out for a solution. When the Japanese invaded China two years later, ‘The March of the Volunteers’ was rapidly transformed into the quintessential song of resistance against Japan, sung at schools, in the army, at rallies, and on the streets. The song was influential in capturing the hearts and minds of millions during China's eight-year War of Resistance against Japan (1937–1945); its impact, in the words of one contemporary song critic, was ‘similar to that of the “Marseillaise” [in the French Revolution]’. When the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) seized power in it adopted the song as the official national anthem.
Assessing Quality in Social Work Education: Focus on Diversity.

ABSTRACT This paper reports on the development and implementation of the ability to Value a Diverse World in an American school of social work. The paper begins with a review of assessment in social work education, and then a framework for assessing learning is presented that builds on the pioneering work done at Alverno College and elsewhere. Prior to developing the diversity ability, faculty identified a set of eight abilities they wanted graduates to have, based on input from 14 stakeholder groups. The ability to Value a Diverse World was selected for implementation first, and a detailed description of the ability was developed which includes six developmental levels and possible assessment activities. Appropriate curriculum revisions were made based on the ability description and implemented in pilot sections of a new course. The paper concludes with a discussion of the impact implementing the diversity ability has had on curriculum and teaching in general.
Hepatitis C infection in the health care setting. I. Low risk from parenteral exposure to blood of human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients.

Many patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection have also been infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). To understand better the epidemiology of HCV infection in the health care setting, HCV antibody testing was done for 125 health care workers who had experienced parenteral exposures to blood of HIV-infected patients and for 33 control health care workers without such exposures. Of the 158 health care workers studied, two (1.3%) had positive tests for HCV, both on the baseline serum sample obtained at parenteral exposure. For the 98 exposed, seronegative health care workers who were prospectively followed, no HCV seroconversions were observed over a time of 17.6±16.9 months. At least 64 of these 98 health care workers were exposed to blood of HIV-infected intravenous drug users, a group with an HCV seroprevalence rate in excess of 50% at our center in suburban New York City. We conclude that parenteral exposure to blood of HIV-infected patients in the health care setting is rarely associated with the development of hepatitis C infection.
Evolution strategy based optimization of on-demand dependent data broadcast scheduling

Data broadcasting makes effective use of low bandwidth and is commonly used in applications involving mobile devices. We consider the case where data must be broadcast in a particular order and within a specified response time. However, communication bottlenecks prohibit the timely serving of all requests; although, missing the deadline does not make the data utility zero. In this work, we consider the problem of real-time data broadcast scheduling in the presence of soft deadlines together with constraints on the order in which data-items should be broadcast to be useful. We explore the method of evolution strategy to solve the problem, keeping in view that the real-time scheduler has to effectively trade-off between its running time and the quality of schedules generated.
Apolipoprotein-E genotyping of diabetic dementia patients: is diabetes rare in Alzheimer's disease?

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether diabetes is rare in Alzheimer disease (AD) relative to other types of dementia and whether diabetics with dementia have a low frequency of the Apolipoprotein-E E4 genotype. DESIGN: Observational survey study. SETTING: An Irvine, California, outpatient dementia assessment center. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 123 patients with AD, 51 with vascular dementia, 57 with “mixed” vascular dementia and AD, and 34 with “other” dementias (non-vascular non-AD). MEASUREMENTS: Demographic data; histories and evidence of diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke; and Apolipoprotein-E genotype for 95 cases distributed across the groups. RESULTS: There were 15 diabetics in the sample (5.7%), all of whom had extensive vascular disease. Diabetes was rare in AD patients (0.8%) relative to vascular dementia (11.8%), mixed vascular/AD dementia (8.8%), and “other” dementia patients (8.8%). In addition, the E4 allele of apolipoprotein-E, associated with high risk for AD, was frequent in the AD group (71.4%), but in the diabetic group it was only as frequent as in the general population (38.5%). In the diabetics with E4, 60% (3/5) had mixed dementia. CONCLUSIONS: Diabetics with dementia rarely have AD except as a component of mixed dementia. Apo-E genotyping showed only average E4 allele frequency in diabetics compared with the high E4 frequency found in AD patients. However, mixed dementia in diabetics may be associated with the E4 allele, suggesting that close control of diabetes may be particularly important for those with E4 since they may be more likely than others to develop both diseases. J Am Geriatr Soc 44:897–904, 1996.
Avoiding disastrous climate change is possible but not inevitable.

What the world does or does not do about climate change will have profound implications. If the world fails to act, we may cross a climate tipping point, with disastrous consequences all around. No country by itself can prevent this, but a substantial number of countries working together can avert disaster. Collectively, we know what we need to do. However, can we agree on what each of us should do? Can we be assured that, if we act, others will fulfill their pledges? An experimental paper in PNAS (1) provides reasons for optimism and despair, optimism because, with communication, outcomes improve; despair because intransigence by a few countries can block progress. A key impediment to success, this paper (1) shows, is overcoming historical inequities.
15.4: Cavity Effects Determining The Outcoupling Efficiency of Organic Light-Emitting Devices

A classical electromagnetic approach using the radiative dipole model is applied to study the cavity effects on outcoupling efficiency for archetype top-emitting organic light-emitting devices. Predicted optical performances will be compared with the combinatorial experiments.
Can magnetic-force microscopy determine micromagnetic structures?

SUMMARY The applicability of magnetic-force microscopy (MFM) to determine micromagnetic structures is considered with respect to the work of Williams et al. (1992), who claim to have determined the domain-wall structure in magnetite. The analysis and interpretation of MFM data are recapitulated and the potential pitfalls are illustrated by comparing the results of the MFM experiments with the magnetization distribution obtained by spin-polarized scanning electron microscopy on the same sample. It is concluded that the micromagnetic interpretation of MFM data is extremely difficult and currently not feasible.
Regulation of glycogen utilization in ischemic hearts after 24 hours of fasting.

Introduction: Fasting protects the ischemic heart from injury and infarction. Previous studies have shown that hearts from fasted animals have greater glycogen utilization and a lower cytosolic redox state (NADH/NAD+) during global ischemia. While the mechanisms of increased glycogen utilization in fasted animals have not been elucidated, animals that hibernate or are tolerant of anoxia are known to increase the tissue content of the active form of glycogen phosphorylase, phosphorylase a. Therefore, this study was designed to (a) determine whether hearts from fasted animals have increased activity of glycogen phosphorylase during ischemia and (b) define those mechanisms responsible for this increase. Methods: Hearts isolated from either fed or fasted (24 h) rats were perfused and freeze-clamped at baseline, and after 1 and 10 min of ischemia, for measurement of phosphorylase activity, phosphorylase kinase activity, and glucose-6-phosphate concentrations. Results: Fasting increased the phosphorylase a/b ratio under both baseline and ischemic conditions. This increase was not accompanied by an increase in the activity of phosphorylase kinase, either with maximal [Ca2+] or under physiologic [Ca2+]. Glucose 6-phosphate concentrations were lower in hearts from fasted animals under baseline, but not ischemic, conditions. Conclusions: Fasting enhances glycogen utilization during ischemia by increasing the active form of glycogen phosphorylase. This increase is not due to a change in phosphorylation by phosphorylase kinase nor end-product inhibition by G-6P. While the precise mechanism of increased glycogen phosphorylase activity in fasted animals is not clear, one likely explanation may be the lower cytosolic redox state demonstrated in the myocardium of fasted animals.