cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Automated genome mining for natural products

Discovery of new medicinal agents from natural sources has largely been an adventitious process based on screening of plant and microbial extracts combined with bioassay-guided identification and natural product structure elucidation. Increasingly rapid and more cost-effective genome sequencing technologies coupled with advanced computational power have converged to transform this trend toward a more rational and predictive pursuit. We have developed a rapid method of scanning genome sequences for multiple polyketide, nonribosomal peptide, and mixed combination natural products with output in a text format that can be readily converted to two and three dimensional structures using conventional software. Our open-source and web-based program can assemble various small molecules composed of twenty standard amino acids and twenty two other chain-elongation intermediates used in nonribosomal peptide systems, and four acyl-CoA extender units incorporated into polyketides by reading a hidden Markov model of DNA. This process evaluates and selects the substrate specificities along the assembly line of nonribosomal synthetases and modular polyketide synthases. Using this approach we have predicted the structures of natural products from a diverse range of bacteria based on a limited number of signature sequences. In accelerating direct DNA to metabolomic analysis, this method bridges the interface between chemists and biologists and enables rapid scanning for compounds with potential therapeutic value.
Mixtures of metals and hydrocarbons elicit complex responses by a benthic invertebrate community

Abstract A microcosm experiment was used to examine the effects of co-contamination with environmentally realistic but relatively low concentrations (expected to cause occasional to frequent adverse effects) of diesel fuel and metals (Cu, Cd, Hg, Cr, and Pb) on a saltmarsh benthic invertebrate community. After 30 days, exposure to metals did not influence abundances of major meiofaunal taxa (nematodes, ostracods, total copepods, nauplii, or chironomid larvae) or individual copepod species. Diesel exposure did not influence nematode or total copepod abundances, but significantly decreased abundances of ostracods, nauplii, and chironomids. For all taxa except copepods, the metals+diesel treatment yielded results similar to the effects of diesel alone. Although total copepod abundances were not significantly influenced by metals- or diesel-only treatments, abundances were significantly reduced in the metals+diesel treatment, a response that appeared consistent with a non-additive toxicological synergism between metals and diesel. Responses of copepod species to the diesel-only treatment were varied; species could be categorized as ‘diesel-sensitive’ (declined in abundance, presumably due to direct (toxic) effects), or ‘diesel-resistant’ (abundance either unchanged, or increased due to indirect (ecological) effects). In the metals+diesel treatment, the effects on ‘diesel-sensitive’ species were similar to those observed in the diesel-only treatment. However, abundances of ‘diesel-resistant’ species declined in the metals+diesel treatment, suggesting that metals interfere with the indirect effects that lead to enhanced abundances of some species and/or that metal+diesel combinations are uniquely toxic. Collectively, however, responses of most individual copepod species to metals+diesel suggested an additive toxicological action, and thus differed from the apparent synergism observed for total copepod abundance. The presence of diesel enhanced the retention of metals in sediments, which may have important toxicological implications. We conclude that, at relatively low concentrations of metal and diesel fuel co-contamination, both direct (toxic) and indirect effects influence faunal abundance; thus, reductions in abundance of major taxa may give the appearance of toxicological synergisms that are not manifested at the species level.
Toward a More Collaborative Federal Response to Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant public health problem in the United States. However, data from the United States Renal Data System and other sources suggest that care for people with CKD does not meet recommended standards. The Federal government has developed the infrastructure to promote population-based interventions which have reduced the burden of other chronic illnesses. An effective, coordinated response by Federal health agencies to the public health challenge of CKD could have a significant effect on the morbidity, mortality, and costs associated with CKD. In recent years, initiatives undertaken by three Federal agencies have made important advances in coordinating efforts. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has begun to develop public health infrastructure for monitoring the burden of CKD. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has, through the successful Fistula First Breakthrough Initiative (FFBI) and inclusion of CKD in the scope of work of Quality Improvement Organizations, promoted earlier diagnosis and treatment of CKD. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, through its National Kidney Disease Education Program, has reinvigorated and expanded the Kidney Interagency Coordinating Committee so that it is a robust vehicle to share information about activities, identify and disseminate promising practices and tools, and foster cross-agency collaboration. Collaboration among Federal health agencies has the potential to enhance efforts to reduce the burden of CKD.
A four channel 10-nanometer spacing wavelength demultiplexer

Results on the development of an experimental four channel fiber optics Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) system with 10 nanometer channel spacing will be presented. Data on WDM demultiplexers utilizing narrow band interference filters will be reviewed. Results on studies of wavelength stability of semiconductor lasers for WDM will also be presented.© (1983) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Associations of work hours with carotid intima–media thickness and ankle–brachial index: the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA)

Objectives Long working hours may be associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD). The objective was to investigate cross-sectional associations of work hours with carotid intima–media thickness (CIMT) and ankle–brachial index (ABI). Methods Participants were 1694 women and 1868 men from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. CIMT and ABI were measured using standard protocols. Information on work hours was obtained from questionnaires. Mean values of CIMT and ABI were examined across five categories of hours worked per week (≤20, 21–39, 40, 41–50 and >50) using analysis of variance/analysis of covariance. p Values for trend were obtained from linear regression models. Results Mean age of participants was 56.9±8.4 years; 52.4% were men. Distinct patterns of association between work hours and the subclinical CVD biomarkers were found for women and men, although this heterogeneity by gender was not statistically significant. Among women only, work hours were positively associated with common (but not internal) CIMT (p=0.073) after full risk factor adjustment. Compared with women working 40 h, those working >50 h were more likely to have an ABI Conclusions Working longer hours may be associated with subclinical CVD. These associations should be investigated using longitudinal studies.
AGPAT6 Is a Novel Microsomal Glycerol-3-phosphate Acyltransferase

AGPAT6 is a member of the 1-acylglycerol-3-phosphate O-acyltransferase (AGPAT) family that appears to be important in triglyceride biosynthesis in several tissues, but the precise biochemical function of the enzyme is unknown. In the current study, we show that AGPAT6 is a microsomal glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase (GPAT). Membranes from HEK293 cells overexpressing human AGPAT6 had higher levels of GPAT activity. Substrate specificity studies suggested that AGPAT6 was active against both saturated and unsaturated long-chain fatty acyl-CoAs. Both glycerol 3-phosphate and fatty acyl-CoA increased the GPAT activity, and the activity was sensitive to N-ethylmaleimide, a sulfhydryl-modifying reagent. Purified AGPAT6 protein possessed GPAT activity but not AGPAT activity. Using [13C7]oleic acid labeling and mass spectrometry, we found that overexpression of AGPAT6 increased both lysophosphatidic acid and phosphatidic acid levels in cells. In these studies, total triglyceride and phosphatidylcholine levels were not significantly altered, although there were significant changes in the abundance of specific phosphatidylcholine species. Human AGPAT6 is localized to endoplasmic reticulum and is broadly distributed in tissues. Membranes of mammary epithelial cells from Agpat6-deficient mice exhibited markedly reduced GPAT activity compared with membranes from wild-type mice. Reducing AGPAT6 expression in HEK293 cells through small interfering RNA knockdown suggested that AGPAT6 significantly contributed to HEK293 cellular GPAT activity. Our data indicate that AGPAT6 is a microsomal GPAT, and we propose renaming this enzyme GPAT4.
Biological Control of Pamakani, Eupatorium Adenophorum, in Hawaii by a Tephritid Gall Fly, Procecidochares Utilis. 2. Population Studies of the Weed, the Fly, and the Parasites of the Fly

Procecidochares uttilis Stone, a tephritid gall fly introduced into Hawaii in 1945 to combat Eupatorium adenophorutr (Spreng.), a rangeland weed, has been highly successful in the control of this plant in some localities but has exerted little control in others. Detailed studies on the progress of the fly, its effects on the plant, and the parasites of the fly were made during 1949 to 1957. The history of the plant in Hawaii, the biology of the fly, its effects on the plant, and the benefits derived from the fly have been treated in a recent paper (Bess and Haramoto 1958). The present paper is concerned with population studies of the weed, the fly, and the parasites of the fly in different localities and seasons, esl)ecially on the island of Maui.
Demonstration of high- and low-affinity β-adrenergic receptors in slide-mounted sections of rat and human brain

Abstract Studies using isolated cell membranes have shown that β-adrenergic receptors exist in two interconvertible conformations, one with high affinity for agonists and the other with low affinity. Guanine nucleotides and sodium shift high-affinity receptor sites into low-affinity sites. We sought to demonstrate affinity states of the β-adrenergic receptor in slide-mounted sections of rat and human postmortem brain, and to determine using quantitative receptor autoradiography the regional distribution in the brain of high-affinity receptors relative to the total population of β-adrenergic receptors. The β-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol inhibited the binding of 125I-iodopindolol to slide-mounted sections of rat forebrain and human premotor cortex in a biphasic manner. Approximately 80% of the β-receptor sites in both rat and human brain showed high-affinity for isoproterenol (7–14 nM). Treatment with 0.1 mM non-hydrolyzable guanine nucleotide 5′-guanylylimidodiphosphate and 25 mM NaCl abolished high-affinity binding in rat brain sections and reduced it in human brain sections. These findings were confirmed by membrane studies using similar tissue samples. For autoradiographic studies, 17 nM isoproterenol displaced 71% of the high-affinity sites without affecting low-affinity β-adrenergic receptors. Digital subtraction was used to selectively visualize β-receptors in the high-affinity conformation. The proportion of β-adrenergic receptors in the high-affinity conformation differed significantly across rat brain regions and across human cortical layers. We conclude that β-adrenergic affinity states, presumably reflecting the interaction of the receptor with a G-protein, occur in slide-mounted sections of rat brain and persist in human postmortem material. Quantitative receptor autoradiographic analysis of receptor affinity states may provide a better index of receptor function than determination of binding site density alone. This work was previously presented in abstract form3.
The Rio+20 Process: Forward Movement for the Environment?

This commentary summarizes the events at the recent UN Conference on Sustainable Development, commonly referred to as Rio+20, noting both the role of official national delegations and the diversity of non-state parties that were involved in a variety of venues at and around Rio+20. It sketches the background of sustainable development efforts, maps the road from the original 1992 Rio Earth Summit to the 20th anniversary gathering, and comments on the Conference’s outcomes and their implications for international law and legal institutions. In answer to the much debated question of whether the Rio+20 was a success or a failure, or something in between, the author concludes that the Conference, while disappointing to many, may have furthered the cause of sustainable development by producing a document which reflects a baseline of international norms and by fostering the increasingly important role of civil society action, commitments and partnerships, and of transnational governance.
Further delineation of the epidermal nevus syndrome : two cases with new findings and literature review

“Epidermal nevus syndrome” (“ENS”) is a neurocutaneous disorder in which epidermal nevi are associated with other abnormalities, most commonly of the skeletal and central nervous systems. We present two cases of epidermal nevus syndrome (ENS) with very different clinical findings. The first case is a newborn with multiple linear epidermal nevi of the trunk and limbs, and several other anomalies, including bony duplications of the lower limbs and hypoplastic left heart syndrome. The second patient, a 6-year-old boy, has a linear nevus sebaceous of the scalp with severe CNS involvement, including generalized seizures, moderate mental retardation, microcephaly, and a left hemiparesis. He also has genitourinary, cardiac, and skeletal defects. These two patients exhibit several abnormalities not previously recognized and illustrate the wide clinical spectrum of “epidermal nevus syndrome.” We present a review of the clinical findings in 74 cases of “ENS.” Correlation was noted between the presence of skin lesions located on the head and CNS involvement. The wide clinical spectrum of “ENS” as illustrated by these two patients suggests that “ENS” is a causally heterogeneous group of disorders. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Silver−Carbon Cluster AgC3: Structure and Infrared Frequencies

Silver-carbon clusters were formed by dual Nd:YAG laser vaporization, trapped in a solid Ar matrix at 12 K, and investigated by infrared spectroscopy. Two new infrared absorption bands were observed at 1827.8 and 1231.6 cm(-1). Isotopic ((13)C) substitution experiments were performed to aid in their assignment. Possible structures considered for the carrier of these bands were Ag(m)C(n) with m = 1 and 2 and n = 1-3, all of which were investigated by density functional theory calculations. The geometries and associated vibrational harmonic-mode frequencies of these clusters were computed with the MPW1PW91 functional and SDD basis set. Both calculations and (13)C-isotopic substitution experiments indicate that the new bands are due to the asymmetric and symmetric C=C stretching modes, respectively, in near-linear AgC3.
Regulation of system xc− in the SOD1-G93A mouse model of ALS

Abstract The cystine/glutamate antiporter (system x c −) is critical for the generation of the antioxidant glutathione by transporting cystine into the cell. At the same time, system x c − also releases glutamate, which can potentially lead to excitotoxicity. The dual actions of system x c − make it of great interest in any disease, like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), in which there is evidence of the involvement of both oxidative stress and excitotoxicity. The present study investigated the regulation of system x c − in the spinal cord of the SOD1-G93A transgenic mouse model of ALS. In acute spinal cord slices of 70 day old SOD1-G93A transgenic mice cystine uptake by system x c − was significantly increased compared to age matched non-transgenic mice; but it was not significantly different at 55, 100, or 130 days. The 70 day old SOD1-G93A transgenic mice also showed significantly increased glutamate release in the presence of cystine. d -Aspartate uptake through excitatory amino acid transporters (EAATs), the main mechanism by which glutamate is cleared from the extracellular space, was also examined. In spinal cord slices of 70 day old SOD1-G93A mice no change in d -aspartate uptake was found. Together, these findings suggest that at 70 days of age, SOD1-G93A transgenic mice have increased system x c − activity, but no change in EAAT function. These results raise the possibility that excitotoxicity in the SOD1-G93A transgenic mouse, at least at early time points, may be due to increased system x c − activity and not decreased EAAT function.
Horizons in Sjögren's syndrome genetics

Sjogren’s syndrome (SS) is a complex polygenic autoimmune disorder. A few major genetic effects have been identified. Historically, HLA and non-HLA genetic associations have been reported. Recently, the HLA region continued to reveal association findings. A new susceptibility region has been suggested by a study of a D6S349 microsatellite marker. Among non-HLA studies, recent association of immunoglobulin κ chain allotype KM1 with anti-La autoantibodies in primary Sjogren’s syndrome confirms findings in a study from two decades ago. Meanwhile, mouse models have been employed to study the genetic contribution to salivary lymphadenitis or dry eyes and mouth. Gene transfer exploration in mouse models shows promise. The authors review the HLA and non-HLA association studies and the mouse model work that has been reported. Newly developed genomic capacity will provide, in the future, a much closer approximation of the true picture of the genetic architecture of Sjogren’s syndrome.
Spatially Random Heisenberg Spins at Very Low Temperatures. III. Multicomponent Ferromagnetic Alloy with Substitutional Short-Range Order

A formulation is given for calculating both the partial and the total single-site magnetic densities of states in a multicomponent Heisenberg ferromagnetic alloy in the presence of arbitrary amounts of nearest-neighbor substitutional short-range order (SRO). The number $n$ of the alloy constituents $\ensuremath{\lambda}$ and their concentrations ${m}^{\ensuremath{\lambda}}$ are assumed to be arbitrary. Only isotropic nearest-neighbor exchange integrals are treated. Moreover, except for the special case of a noncommunicating alloy (where all interspecies exchange is vanishing), the positivity of the intraspecies exchange ${J}^{\ensuremath{\lambda},\ensuremath{\lambda}}$ is assumed throughout. By computing and comparing the exact results for the frequency moments of the total density of states with those given by the present theory, we confirm that the first four frequency moments are exactly conserved (for lattices without nearest-neighbor triangles) and frequency moments of arbitrary order are given exactly for all lattices to the leading order in the ${z}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ power expansion. For certain favorable situations (which include the cases of a dilute ferromagnet, the symmetrical dilute ternary, and the $n$-component noncommunicating alloy) our theory also enables us to calculate the system Curie temperature. We discuss these cases in detail and show how in a dilute ferromagnet the critical concentration is strongly dependent upon the substitutional SRO. Indeed, for perfect clustering of all magnetic atoms, the critical concentration is effectively zero. We also show how by manipulating (i) the relative strength of the interspecies to intraspecies exchange coupling and (ii) the substitutional SRO among the constituents, first-order magnetic phase transitions may be induced. For the noncommunicating alloy we show that under suitable conditions ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic long-range order (LRO) may coexist. Lastly, we compare our results for the Curie temperature (for a random symmetrical binary) with those given by Murray. These results agree to the two leading orders in a ${z}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ expansion. When $z$ is small, e.g., in a simple-cubic lattice, these results differ somewhat: Ours always lies lower than Murray's.
Hydride abstraction from eta(3)-allylic molybdenum complexes exploring various diaryl carbenium ion precursors. A study toward enantioselective hydride abstraction

The efficiency of trityl bromide (4) and diaryl carbenium ion precursors 5-7 in hydride abstraction from a series of cyclohexenyl molybdenum complexes (2) was investigated. The novel nonracemic hydride abstractors 14a,b were designed and prepared and were shown to effectuate hydride abstraction from prochiral substrate 15 with modest enantioselectivity.
Comparison of Macrophage Function in Several Commercial Broiler Genetic Lines

Abstract The present study was conducted to establish baseline profiles of various macrophage functions in four commercial broiler genetic lines designated as Lines 1, 2, 3, and 4. All experiments were carried out between 2 to 3 wk of age. Total numbers of peritoneal exudate cells per bird collected 42 h after a single i.p. injection of Sephadex-G50 were comparable among the lines. Line 1 produced fewer macrophages along with reduced phagocytosis of opsonized SRBC, whereas Line 4 macrophages were depressed in unopsonized SRBC phagocytosis. Macrophages from Lines 2 and 4 killed internalized Escherichia coli earlier man macrophages from Lines 1 and 3. Supernatants from lipopolysaccharide-treated macrophages from Lines 1 and 2 exhibited significantly higher cytolytic activity against LSCC-RP9 tumor cells when compared with supernatants from Line 3 and 4 macrophages. The current study demonstrates genetic variation among the four broiler lines for mononuclear phagocytic system functions.
CNS β-endorphin regulation of insulin-induced ornithine decarboxylase expression in liver of neonatal rats

Abstract Previously, we reported that central (but not peripheral) administration of β-endorphin to rat pups decreases basal ornithine decarboxylase (ODC; a growth-associated enzyme) activity throughout the body. This finding is consistent with the view that CNS β-endorphin is an important regulator of postnatal development. Insulin is a hormone that markedly affects liver growth and evidence indicates that this occurs, in part, through its ability to regulate ODC expression. The current study examines the effects of intracisternal injection of β-endorphin on the response of liver ODC to subcutaneous administration of insulin. Insulin (20 IU/kg body wt), markedly increased liver ODC activity in 2-, 4-, 6-, 10-, 18-, and 30-day-old rats. Intracisternal injection of β-endorphin (1.5 μg/g brain wt) inhibited this response to insulin in 2-, 4-, 6-, 10-, and 18-day-old rats, but not in 30-day-old animals. This inhibition by β-endorphin was not reversed by naloxone, indicating that the effect is not mediated by brain μ or δ opioid receptors. Centrally administered β-endorphin also blocked the increases in liver ODC activity evoked by subcutaneous administration of cAMP. The results from these studies suggest that the postulated regulation of postnatal development by CNS β-endorphin may occur through actions on both basal ODC activity and tissue ODC sensitivity to “classical” trophic factors. The modulation by β-endorphin of liver ODC expression apparently occurs distally to cAMP-generating mechanisms
Spectroscopic, Thermal, and Magnetic Properties of Metal/TCNQ Network Polymers with Extensive Supramolecular Interactions between Layers

Reactions of [M(MeCN)n][BF4]2 salts with Bu4N(TCNQ) in MeOH yield M(TCNQ)2(MeOH)x (M = Mn, 1; Fe, 2; Co, 3; Ni, 4, x = 2−4), and reactions of MnCl2, FeSO4·7H2O, CoSO4·7H2O and NiCl2·6H2O in H2O produce M(TCNQ)2(H2O)2 (M = Mn, 5; Fe, 6; Co, 7; Ni, 8). Infrared spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analyses of 1−8 indicate that the products prepared in the same solvent constitute isostructural families of compounds. [Mn(TCNQ−TCNQ)(MeOH)4]∞ (9) crystallizes in the triclinic space group P1, a = 7.2966(8) A, b = 7.4289(8) A, c = 14.060(2) A, α = 76.112(2)° β = 87.242(2)°, γ = 71.891(2)°, V = 702.91(13) A3, Z = 1; [Mn(TCNQ)(TCNQ−TCNQ)0.5(MeOH)2]∞ (10) crystallizes in the monoclinic space group C2/c, a = 14.4378(5) A, b = 27.3067(11) A, c = 13.1238(5) A, β = 90.057(1)°, V = 5174.0(3) A3, Z = 8. Compound 9 contains TCNQ- ligands that have undergone an unusual σ-dimerization to [TCNQ−TCNQ]2- that acts as a tetradentate ligand to Mn(II) ions to give a 2-D staircase polymeric motif. The layer...
A simple field-theoretic simulation method for compressible block copolymer systems

A simple field-theoretic simulation method based on a compressible random-phase approximation (RPA) theory has been suggested to understand the self-assembly behavior and its pressure responses of compressible block copolymer systems. Finite compressibility is incorporated in the free energy functional for the dissipative dynamics through effective RPA interactions that account for the excluded volume and the attractive nonbonded interactions. It was shown that basic equation-of-state parameters completely characterizing given block components readily yield stable and metastable morphologies without any presumed symmetry over a wide range of temperature−pressure−composition space for copolymer melts in unconfined or confined geometry. It was demonstrated that the simulation tool is capable of predicting in a unified way block copolymer phase behavior, not only exhibiting nanoscale ordering either upon cooling or reversely upon heating, but also revealing barotropicity and baroplasticity.
The role of leukodepletion in limiting ischemia/reperfusion damage in the heart, lung and lower extremity.

This article describes the experimental infrastructure and subsequent clinical application of a comprehensive reper-fusion strategy to limit the injury following ischemia, resulting in an improvement in post operative organ function. In particular, it examines the role of luekodepletion in minimizing damage and improving functional outcome in the heart, lung and lower extremity. During cardiothoracic procedures, various organs can be subjected to temporary ischemia, particularly the heart (cardioplegic arrest), lung (transplant), and lower extremity (femoral canulation, IABP). The background of ischemia/reperfusion injury is discussed as it applies to each of these 3 organs, as well as findings that ischemia followed by reperfusion results in a similar injury in each organ. Data are then presented to demonstrate that a comprehensive reperfusion strategy, utilizing a modified substrate-enriched blood reperfusatedeliveredat a low pressure can limit this injury, and that adding white blood cell filtration si...
Transient response of graphite/epoxy and Kevlar/epoxy laminates subjected to impact

The influence of different parameters on the impact behavior of laminated composite plates is considered analytically. A Rayleigh-Ritz energy method was used to spatially discretize the time-varying boundary value problem and a set of coupled, ordinary differential equations in time were obtained based on the discretized system Lagrangian. The effects of shearing deformation, bending-twisting coupling, and nonlinear contact behavior were included in the model. The resulting equations were integrated using the implicit Newmark beta method without the effects of rotary inertia. The results indicate that the effective mass of the plate is often an important effect in the response to impact events. In general, the influence of the constitutive behavior dominates for very low velocity impact, whereas the target mass properties become more important as the impactor velocity increases. This importance of mass clearly shows that impactor kinetic energy is not sufficient to characterize the impactor as the impactor mass is shown to have a large influence on the resulting dynamic behavior. In addition to these parameters, the effects of preload and material properties are considered and discussed.
Hot Dust and the Near-Infrared Bump in the Continuum Spectra of Quasars and Active Galactic Nuclei

It is shown here that thermal radiation by dust can reproduce the overall shape of the bump seen in the near-infrared continua of many QSOs and AGN. A simple model in which dust grains are heated by the primary nuclear optical/ultraviolet continuum produces the required emission at short wavelengths. The model naturally explains the onset of the bump at about 2 microns. This wavelength corresponds to the optically thin emission peak for the hottest possible grains, i.e., graphite grains at their evaporation temperature near 1500 K. Emission longward of 2 microns is due to cooler grains farther from the central source. 33 references.
Changes in peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma activity in children with septic shock.

To assess changes in peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from critically ill children with sepsis. Additionally, to investigate the effects of sepsis on the endogenous activator of PPARγ, 15-deoxy-∆12,14-PGJ2 (15d-PGJ2), and the downstream targets of PPARγ activity, adiponectin and resistin. Single-center, prospective case–control study in critically ill children with systemic inflammatory response syndrome, sepsis or septic shock. PPARγ nuclear protein expression was decreased but PPARγ activity was increased in PBMC from children with septic shock compared with controls. PPARγ activity on day 1 was significantly higher in patients with higher pediatric risk of mortality (PRISM) score compared with controls [mean 0.22 optical density (OD) ± standard error of the mean (SEM) 0.03 versus 0.12 OD ± 0.02; p < 0.001]. Patients with resolved sepsis had increased levels of the endogenous PPARγ ligand, 15d-PGJ2, compared with patients with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and septic shock (77.7 ± 21.7 versus 58 ± 16.5 pg/ml; p = 0.03). Plasma high-molecular-weight adiponectin (HMWA) and resistin levels were increased in patients with septic shock on day 1 and were significantly higher in patients with higher PRISM scores. Nonsurvivors from sepsis had higher resistin levels on the first day of hospitalization compared with survivors from septic shock [660 ng/ml, interquartile range (IQR) 585–833 ng/ml versus 143 ng/ml, IQR 66–342 ng/ml; p < 0.05]. Sepsis is associated with altered PPARγ expression and activity in PBMC. Plasma adipokines correlate with risk of mortality scores in sepsis and may be useful biomarkers. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanisms underlying changes in PPARγ in sepsis.
Posteromedial process fractures of the talus

In this report, we present the diagnosis and clinical outcome of four patients with fractures of the posteromedial process of the talus. In two patients, the posteromedial process fracture was missed initially, which led to painful nonunions. One patient was treated with excision of a nonunion, and the other patient with a nonunion refused further surgery. Two patients underwent ORIF through a posteromedial approach. CT scans were useful in defining the fracture in all four patients. Cast treatment was recommended for displaced fractures or fractures without significant subtalar joint involvement. ORIF was recommended for displaced fractures with significant subtalar joint involvement.
Let Food Be Thy Medicine: Diet, Nutrition, and Biomarkers' Risk of Alzheimer's Disease.

Epidemiological evidence linking diet—one of the most important modifiable lifestyle factors—and risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD)—the most common cause of dementia—is rapidly increasing. However, the biological mechanisms underlying the relationship between dietary nutrients, brain aging, and risk of AD are largely unexplored. Recent studies using brain imaging and biological markers of AD have begun to clarify how diet and nutrition modulate risk of AD in cognitively normal individuals, especially those at increased genetic risk. Such knowledge is critical prior to implementing dietary recommendations for prevention and treatment of disease.
Media’s social construction of environmental issues: focus on global warming – a comparative study

Global warming has been a well recognized environmental issue in the United States for the past ten years, even though scientists had identified it as a potential problem years before in 1896. We find debate about the issue in the United States media coverage while controversy among the majority of scientists is rare. The role that media plays in constructing the norms and ideas in society is researched to understand how they socially construct global warming and other environmental issues. To identify if the U.S. Media presents a biased view of global warming, the following are discussed (1) the theoretical perspective of media and the environment; (2) scientific overview and history of global warming; (3) media coverage of global warming, and (4) research findings from the content analysis of three countries’ newspaper articles and two international scientific journals produced in 2000 with comparison of these countries economies, industries, and environments. In conclusion, our research demonstrates that the U.S. with differing industries, predominantly dominated by the fossil fuel industry, in comparison to New Zealand and Finland has a significant impact on the media coverage of global warming. The U.S’s media states that global warming is controversial and theoretical, yet the other two countries portray the story that is commonly found in the international scientific journals. Therefore, media, acting as one driving force, is providing citizens with piecemeal information that is necessary to assess the social, environmental and political conditions of the country and world.
Contributions to the Theory of Beta-Phase Alloys

All alloys of the type of $\ensuremath{\beta}$-brass decrease their concentration range in the disordered state as the temperature is lowered. The original theory of Jones is shown to be inadequate, and the observed variation with temperature of the phase boundaries is shown to follow directly from the assumption that the $\ensuremath{\beta}$-phase has a slightly lower characteristic temperature than the neighboring phases.Beta-brass has an extremely high elastic anisotropy. This property is in part a result of an anomalously low value of $\frac{({C}_{11}\ensuremath{-}{C}_{12})}{2}$, which is shown to be interpretable in terms of lattice type and inter-ionic interactions. This interpretation also explains the positive value of the temperature coefficient of ${E}_{100}$.
Modulated submillimeter laser interferometer system for plasma density measurements.

A high resolution submillimeter interferometer system for measurement of electron densities in the 1014-cm−3 ≤ ne ≤ 2 × 1015-cm−3 range has been developed for use in high density tokamaks. Phase modulation at ~1 MHz is accomplished by difference frequency mixing of two cavity tuned laser oscillators. The optically pumped CH3OH lasers, which operate on the 118.8-μm line, feature a novel output coupling design that permits good mode quality and low beam divergence. The beat signals are detected using a newly developed Ge:Li photoconductor, and a direct measurement of the phase shift is obtained from the time lag between probe and reference signals. The sensitivity of the resulting phase measurement is independent of the instantaneous phase and unaffected by fluctuations in the amplitude or in the frequency of the modulation.
Amino-terminal sequence identity of ubiquitin and the nonhistone component of nuclear protein A24.

Abstract The amino-terminal 37 residues of bovine and human ubiquitin and of the nonhistone component from bovine nuclear protein A24 are identical. The probability that the two proteins are unrelated is infinitesimal. That they share such a highly conserved sequence indicates that they perform a cell function of basic importance and have a common evolutionary origin. They may even be products of the same gene. We make several suggestions concerning their structural and functional relationships based on a correlation of existing information.
Some non-conflicting attributions, and some newly anonymous compositions, from the early sixteenth century

A surprisingly large number of early madrigals carry conflicting attributions in the printed sources of the 1530s and early 1540s. For example, twenty-four of the ninety-five settings listed in Hans Musch's recent book on Festa appear in various sources under at least two composers' names; among other pieces in the same position are some ascribed to Arcadelt or Verdelot – or at least appearing in volumes dedicated to those composers and carrying no other names at the head of the page.
Optimizing hypertension andvascular health: Focus on ethnicity

Black individuals are at significantly higher risk for hypertension and its sequelae, including end-stage renal disease and congestive heart failure, compared with other ethnic groups. The reason for this increased risk is likely multifactorial: although genetic differences may play a partial role in the etiology and pathophysiology of hypertension in black patients, factors related to lifestyle, most notably high body mass index, appear to have a greater impact. The treatment approach to lowering blood pressure in blacks is the same as for other ethnic groups. Patients should be aggressively managed, using combination therapies in the majority of them to achieve optimal blood pressure control and thereby cardiorenal protection. Although blockers of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) appear to be less effective for lowering blood pressure and preventing kidney disease in blacks compared with whites, black patients have been underrepresented in studies of RAS blockers. Calcium channel blockers are distinctive for their potent blood pressure-lowering effects, and novel strategies such as chronotherapeutic dosing of these agents has further improved upon the flexibility of their use.
Mental Health Issues in LGBT Seniors

Despite their increasing numbers, older lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) adults have mental health needs that remain poorly characterized and treated. This special issue of the Journa...
Screening questionnaires for parkinsonism: A systematic review

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common, treatable movement disorder that often remains undiagnosed despite clinically manifest symptoms. Screening for parkinsonism could lead to improved detection and earlier treatment, and facilitate research studies of PD prevalence. In order to determine the feasibility of screening, this study evaluated the validity of previously developed screening questionnaires. We systematically searched online databases PubMed and EMBASE for English-language studies published between 1980 and 2009. In each database a "Parkinson(s) disease" or "parkinsonism" term was combined with a screening term ("screening instrument," "screening questionnaire," "screen" or "prevalence survey") and a validity term ("validation," "sensitivity" and "specificity"). Included studies reported the psychometric properties of at least one self-report questionnaire for parkinsonism. Twenty-seven studies met the inclusion criteria. From these studies, 9 screening questionnaires were identified. Sensitivity and specificity estimates varied widely. Sensitivity estimates were as high as 100% when questionnaires were tested among previously diagnosed PD patients and included a high number of parkinsonism specific items, but were as low as 48% when tested among early cases in a community-based sample. Specificity estimates were lower, ranging from 22 to 100%. An older sample, presence of multiple co-morbid conditions and lower literacy led to lower specificity estimates. Higher specificity estimates were seen when the screening questionnaires were administered by a physician. Screening questionnaires can detect symptomatic parkinsonism. However, the performance of these questionnaires varied based on the individual items, study sample, and method of administration. The performance of screening questionnaires in the detection of early or mild parkinsonism was modest.
Dietary selection and nutritional regulation in a common mixed-feeding insect herbivore

The geometric framework provides a way for understanding the multi-dimensional nutritional relationships between consumers and their food. We use this approach to further our understanding of the feeding and nutritional ecology of a ubiquitous mixed-feeding insect herbivore that consumes a variety of host plants spanning a wide range of nutritional composition. Our overall objective was to examine feeding decisions, resulting performance, and post-ingestive consequences in a common mixed-feeding insect herbivore, Melanoplus bivittatus (Say) (Orthoptera: Acrididae), when presented with paired diets differing in protein:carbohydrate (p:c) ratio. Intake p:c of M. bivittatus differed among all but two treatments and in many cases was farther than expected from the previously identified p:c intake target for this species. Despite this variability in intake of protein and carbohydrate, we found few effects of the diet treatments on performance or post-ingestive processing. However, our results suggest that when feeding on high-quality diets, nutrients consumed in excess may be stored rather than excreted.
Midwestern Museums and Classical Archaeology, 1893–1998

U.S. museums were not founded with the intention of building large collections reflecting the history and culture of classical societies such as Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome, and Egypt. Only later, with the combined interest of trustees and private donors, did most museums accept classical archaeology as an academic pursuit. In this paper, I explore how museums in the American Midwest, not known for maintaining extensive classical collections, came to possess relatively large collections from classical societies. I intend in this paper to engender pragmatic lines of questioning regarding the nature of archaeological and anthropological museum studies. I specifically focus on the development of collections at the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago, the Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul, and the Logan Museum of Anthropology in Beloit, WI.
Rheological behavior of magneto-rheological grease (MRG)

This paper presents an experimental study on the rheological properties of a magneto-rheological (MR) grease. MR fluids and MR greases are materials which consist of micron-size ferrous particles suspended in a carrier fluid. Their material properties such as apparent viscosity and shear stress can be altered dramatically and reversibly when stimulated by a magnetic field. The main difference between a MRG and a MR fluid is the viscosity of the carrier fluid. Unlike MR fluids, MRGs do not have the particle settling issue. The steady-shear magneto-rheological response of MRGs with at different temperatures is investigated. The results of apparent viscosity and yield stress under different applied magnetic fields are reported. In addition, the wall surface effect on the flow behavior of MRGs under different applied magnetic fields is examined using a slit channel flow device.
Foundations of Ultra-Low Power Scale Free Sensor Networks for Cluster to Cluster Communications

This paper introduces a new foundation for ultra-cooperative communications based on very low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) channels between mobile sensor nodes grouped in spatially distributed clusters. In this new framework, we define a cluster entity as a sensor network of wireless nodes with, but not limited to, scale-free topology. We define a physical wireless scale free model for the clusters that extends the abstract scale-free model developed by Barabasi-Albert for network graphs to the wireless channel. Our air interface model is based on orthogonal frequency division multiplexing with Rayleigh flat fading channels and additive white Gaussian noise. For intracluster communications, we have developed the new concept of consensus in a wireless network framework to improve performance. This new approach is ideal for distributed long-range low power sensor networks with ultra-low power signals well below the noise floor. For a cluster size of 100 nodes, we achieve BER of at an SNR of -25 dB in Rayleigh fading. This method enables reliability in both fading channels for intracluster communications and can support ultra-long range or ultra-low power communications links. We establish the fundamental principles involving the relationship between cluster sizes and communication performance, and illustrate 7× gains in range performance using HATA path loss models.
On the solution of algebraic equations by the decomposition method

Abstract The decomposition method ( G. Adomian, “Stochastic Systems,” Academic Press, New York, 1983 ) developed to solve nonlinear stochastic differential equations has recently been generalized to nonlinear (and/or) stochastic partial differential equations, systems of equations, and delay equations and applied to diverse applications. As pointed out previously (see reference above) the methodology is an operator method which can be used for nondifferential operators as well. Extension has also been made to algebraic equations involving real or complex coefficients. This paper deals specifically with quadratic, cubic, and general higher-order polynomial equations and negative, or nonintegral powers, and random algebraic equations. Further work on this general subject appears elsewhere (G. Adomian, “Stochastic Systems II,” Academic Press, New York, in press).
Environmental factors affect daily increment deposition and otolith growth in young Colorado squawfish

Abstract Otolith microstructure of endangered Colorado squawfish Ptychocheilus lucius was investigated to determine patterns of otolith growth and to validate daily deposition of increments. Sagittae and lapilli formed prior to hatching. After fish hatched, otolith increments were deposited daily whether larvae were reared at a constant 22°C temperature or subjected to fluctuating temperatures (±2.5°/d) centered at 18, 22, or 26°C. Otolith increments were clearer and counts of increments were more accurate for fish reared at fluctuating than at constant temperatures. Otolith growth was lower at 18°C than at 22 or 26°C, but evidence of a direct effect of temperature on otolith growth was inconclusive. Lapillus diameters of slow-growing Colorado squawfish were larger than those of similar-sized but fast-growing fish, indicating that fish and otolith growth rates were not proportional. When larvae were starved, growth in body length generally ceased immediately but otolith growth continued for up to 15 d. Ot...
Modeled Effectiveness of Ventilation with Contaminant Control Devices on Indoor Air Quality in a Swine Farrowing Facility

Because adverse health effects experienced by swine farm workers in concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) have been associated with exposure to dust and gases, efforts to reduce exposures are warranted, particularly in winter seasons when exposures increase due to decreased ventilation. Simulation of air quality and operating costs for ventilating swine CAFO, including treating and recirculating air through a farrowing room, was performed using mass and energy balance equations over a 90-day winter season. System operation required controlling heater operation to achieve room temperatures optimal to ensure animal health (20 to 22.5°C). Five air pollution control devices, four room ventilation rates, and five recirculation patterns were examined. Inhalable dust concentrations were easily reduced using standard industrial air pollution control devices, including a cyclone, filtration, and electrostatic precipitator. Operating ventilation systems at 0.94 m3 s−1 (2000 cfm) with 75 to 100% recirculati...