cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Expression of profibrotic genes in a murine remnant kidney model

Abstract Purpose To test the hypothesis that there is increased expression of several profibrotic genes, including matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMP-1 and TIMP-2), a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motif-1 (ADAMTS-1), and fibroblast specific protein-1 (FSP-1) in a murine remnant kidney model. Materials and Methods Chronic kidney disease (CKD) was created in 10 C57BL/6 male mice (20–25 g) by performing a right nephrectomy and ligation of the upper pole of the left kidney (remnant kidney). Animals were sacrificed 42 days and 56 days later. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, TIMP-2, ADAMTS-1, and FSP-1 was performed in the remnant kidney. Histologic evaluation of the remnant kidney was performed using Ki-67, α-smooth muscle cell actin (α-SMA), hematoxylin and eosin, and Masson' trichrome staining. Kidney function was assessed using serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. Results The mean serum BUN and creatinine levels at day 42 and day 56 were significantly higher than baseline ( P P P Conclusions In the remnant kidney, there was increased fibrosis with increased α-SMA and Ki-67 staining and significantly increased expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, ADAMTS-1, and FSP-1.
Acceleration and preconditioning strategies for higher order Moment Methods

We develop a Multilevel Fast Multipole Algorithm (MLFMA) for higher order Moment Methods that, unlike extant higher order MLFMA implementations, maintains optimal scaling independent of the patch size.We employ the new scheme to both accelerate preconditioner computation and apply it to the Generalized Method of Moments to analyze scattering from large PEC objects.
Pressure measurement in supersonic air flow by differential absorptive laser-induced thermal acoustics

Nonintrusive, off-body flow barometry in Mach 2 airflow has been demonstrated in a large-scale supersonic wind tunnel using seedless laser-induced thermal acoustics (LITA). The static pressure of the gas flow is determined with a novel differential absorption measurement of the ultrasonic sound produced by the LITA pump process. Simultaneously, the streamwise velocity and static gas temperature of the same spatially resolved sample volume were measured with this nonresonant time-averaged LITA technique. Mach number, temperature, and pressure have 0.2%, 0.4%, and 4% rms agreement, respectively, in comparison with known free-stream conditions.
Evaluation of transparent carbon nanotube networks of homogeneous electronic type.

In this report, we present a description of the optical and electronic properties of as-deposited, annealed, and chemically treated single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) films showing metallic or semiconducting behavior. As-deposited and annealed semiconducting SWNT films were significantly less conductive than metallic SWNT films; however, chemical treatment of semiconducting SWNT films resulted in sheet resistance values as low as 60 Ω·sq−1 in comparison to 76 Ω·sq−1 for similarly processed metallic SWNT films. We conclude that the greater improvement of electrical conductivity observed in the semiconducting SWNT film results from the difference in the density of available electronic states between metallic and semiconducting SWNTs. A corroborative investigation of the change in surface work function and the chemical composition of SWNT films, as revealed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, is provided to support these conclusions and to give new perspective to the formation of electronically homogeneou...
Characteristics of the vulnerable code changes identified through peer code review

To effectively utilize the efforts of scarce security experts, this study aims to provide empirical evidence about the characteristics of security vulnerabilities. Using a three-stage, manual analysis of peer code review data from 10 popular Open Source Software (OSS) projects, this study identified 413 potentially vulnerable code changes (VCC). Some key results include: 1) the most experienced contributors authored the majority of the VCCs, 2) while less experienced authors wrote fewer VCCs, their code changes were 1.5 to 24 times more likely to be vulnerable, 3) employees of the organization sponsoring the OSS projects are more likely to write VCCs.
Characterization of human MAPRE genes and their proteins.

Abstract The MAPRE genes encode the EB1 family proteins. The yeast EB1 protein had been shown to play important roles in microtubule dynamic regulation, cytokinesis, mitotic spindle positioning, and episome segregation. To facilitate functional studies of mammalian EB1 family proteins, we characterized the human MAPRE genes ( MAPRE1, MAPRE2, and MAPRE3 ) and their proteins (EB1, RP1, and EBF3). We found that the three MAPRE genes had similar genomic structures but were on different chromosomes. We showed that EB1 family proteins appeared to be expressed ubiquitously. We identified two EBF3 proteins, which were encoded by alternatively spliced MAPRE3 mRNAs. We demonstrated that there were also two RP1 proteins, which were products of translation from different initiation codons. We showed that the three EB1 family proteins had different abilities to interact with APC in vitro, and we provided the first direct evidence for the association between endogenous EB1 and APC.
Transperitoneal laparoscopic radical nephrectomy for large (more than 7 cm) renal masses.

OBJECTIVES To evaluate our laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) series to determine whether any significant increases have occurred in operative morbidity when resecting large (7 cm or greater) renal masses. LRN is becoming the reference standard for treating suspicious renal masses not amenable to nephron-sparing surgery. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 164 consecutive patients who had undergone laparoscopic radical nephrectomy performed for suspicious renal masses by two surgeons from February 2000 and December 2006. After institutional review board approval, we reviewed the patient charts to determine whether patients with 7-cm or larger lesions had significant differences in age, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists class, operative time, estimated blood loss, conversion rate, positive margin rate, postoperative creatinine, and hematocrit compared with patients with lesions smaller than 7 cm. RESULTS The data from 164 patients were reviewed. Of these 164 patients, 124 had less than 7-cm masses and 40 had lesions 7 cm or larger. The mean tumor size in the less than 7-cm group was 4.2 cm (range 1.8 to 6.9) and was 9.2 cm (range 7 to 14) in the 7-cm or larger group. The patients with large tumors had a significantly longer operative time, greater estimated blood loss, and increase in postoperative serum creatinine than those with smaller tumors but all other perioperative variables were similar. Two conversions to open radical nephrectomy occurred in both groups. CONCLUSIONS Our data have clearly shown that larger tumors can safely be resected with transperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy. Open nephrectomy for large tumors can be associated with increased morbidity and the use of LRN could minimize this increased risk. Urologists with laparoscopic experience should consider expanding their indication for LRN.
Primary leptomeningeal melanocytosis presenting as chronic meningitis

Abstract We report a patient with primary leptomeningeal melanocytosis presenting as chronic meningitis. A previously healthy 27-year-old man presented with 2 months of severe headaches and photophobia. A lumbar puncture was notable for a highly elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein level without pleocytosis. Imaging at the time of admission suggested only meningitis without the presence of parenchymal lesions. On the basis of the CSF findings, early meningeal biopsy was performed, leading to the diagnosis of a meningeal melanocytic neoplasm. Early meningeal biopsy should be considered in patients with meningitis when the CSF profile suggests the possibility of a central nervous system neoplasm.
Arrhythmias in Fabry Cardiomyopathy

Fabry disease is an X-linked multisystem disorder caused by deficiency of the α-galactosidase A enzyme. Cardiovascular manifestations include hypertension, coronary disease, arrhythmias, valvular abnormalities, heart failure, and sudden death. Bradycardia and conduction system abnormalities are related initially to abnormal accumulation of glycolipids in the lysosomes of conduction tissues. Hypertrophy and eventual fibrosis provides a substrate for persistent conduction abnormalities and ventricular arrhythmias. Sudden cardiac death can be related to bradyarrhythmias or tachycardias. Enzyme replacement therapy can improve cardiac function and clinical outcomes. Pacemakers or defibrillators are important in the treatment of patients with Fabry disease who are at risk for arrhythmias.
PETA Making Social Noise: A Perspective on Shock Advertising

This article analyses People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals’ (PETA) strategies for making social noise, a form of public communication that is sufficiently attention grabbing to be ‘heard’. A common social noise tactic is shock advertising. It has a magic-bullet effect; when PETA resorts to graphic video recordings of animal abuse, it instils feelings of ‘shock’ to get its point across. Unlike many other studies on PETA and its advertising strategies, this analysis is distinctive in that it mostly bases the principle of shock advertising on the theory of social noise. The latter adds fresh insights to our understanding of visual legitimacy in the twenty-first century.
Midgut carcinoid tumors: CT findings and biochemical profiles.

Objective Our goal was to describe the abdominal CT findings in 52 patients with midgut carcinoid tumors and correlate these findings with their biochemical profiles. Materials and methods Abdominal/pelvic CTs of 52 patients with midgut carcinoid tumors were reviewed retrospectively for the presence of liver metastases, mesenteric and peritoneal disease, bowel changes, lymphadenopathy, and the presence of the primary tumor. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between these findings and the serum and platelet serotonin and urine 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid levels. Results The most common finding was hepatic metastases (34/52). Nonspecific mesenteric soft tissue stranding was present in 26 of 52 and a discrete mesenteric mass was present in 25 of 52. These masses had linear, radiating soft tissue spokes in 16 of 25 and contained calcification in 10 of 25. Retroperitoneal and mesenteric lymphadenopathy was present in 14 of 52 and 11 of 52 cases, respectively. Carcinomatosis was present in 11 of 52. Bowel wall thickening was seen in 9 of 52. Six patients had a small bowel obstruction. Elevated serum serotonin, platelet serotonin, and urine 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid levels were significantly associated with the presence of liver metastases (p = 0.0032, 0.0098, and 0.0450, respectively). Elevated platelet serotonin levels were also significantly associated with the presence of a mesenteric mass (p = 0.0101). Conclusion In our population, the most common findings of a midgut carcinoid tumor are liver metastases, nonspecific mesenteric soft tissue changes, a discrete mesenteric mass with radiating soft tissue spokes, often containing calcification, and lymphadenopathy. As expected, liver metastases correlate strongly with the presence of elevated biochemical levels. A new observation is the correlation of elevated platelet serotonin levels and mesenteric masses. We hypothesize that platelet serotonin may be the factor that stimulates stromal cells to produce mesenteric fibrosis and mass formation.
Comparison of van 't Hoff and calorimetrically determined enthalpies of binding of N-phosphonacetyl-L-aspartate to E. coli aspartate transcarbamylase.

Abstract A comparison has been made of the values obtained by direct calorimetric measurements and van 't Hoff analysis, under similar conditions, for the enthalpy of binding of the bisubstrate analog N-phosphonacetyl-L-aspartate (PALA) to E. coli aspartate transcarbamylase and its catalytic subunit. In the case of the catalytic subunit, data were obtained at both saturating and non-saturating concentrations of L-Asp, and at two ionic strengths. Despite a 1000-fold difference in protein concentrations, and the obligatory omission of carbamyl phosphate in the calorimetric experiments, the values obtained by the two methods are shown to agree to within 15% when appropriate corrections are made. These results suggest that subunit dissociation is not a significant factor at the low protein concentrations used in the van 't Hoff analysis, and, conversely, that aggregation of the protein is negligible at the high protein concentrations used in the calorimetric experiments. They also imply that, at pH 8.3, the enthalpic difference between the two conformational states of the enzyme which exist in the presence and absence of substrates is less than 2.5 kcal mol . In addition, the trends in the three sets of data for the catalytic subunit indicate that ionic bonds are involved in binding PALA to the active site, and that non-productive binding by L-Asp is negligible under these experimental conditions.
ELOPTA: a novel microcontroller-based operant device.

Operant devices have been used for many years in animal behavior research, yet such devices are generally highly specialized and quite expensive. Although commercial models are somewhat adaptable and resilient, they are also extremely expensive and are controlled by difficult to learn proprietary software. As an alternative to commercial devices, we have designed and produced a fully functional, programmable operant device, using a PICmicro microcontroller (Microchip Technology, Inc.). The electronic operant testing apparatus (ELOPTA) is designed to deliver food when a study animal, in this case a bird, successfully depresses the correct sequence of illuminated keys. The device logs each keypress and can detect and log whenever a test animal is positioned at the device. Data can be easily transferred to a computer and imported into any statistical analysis software. At about 3% the cost of a commercial device, ELOPTA will advance behavioral sciences, including behavioral ecology, animal learning and cognition, and ethology.
Global distribution and genetic diversity of Bartonella in bat flies (Hippoboscoidea, Streblidae, Nycteribiidae)

Recently, a growing number Bartonella spp. have been identified as causative agents for a broadening spectrum of zoonotic diseases, emphasizing their medical importance. Many mammalian reservoirs and vectors however are still unknown, hindering our understanding of pathogen ecology and obscuring epidemiological connections. New Bartonella genotypes were detected in a global sampling of 19 species of blood-feeding bat flies (Diptera, Hippoboscoidea, Nycteribiidae, Streblidae) from 20 host bat species, suggesting an important role of bat flies in harboring bartonellae. Evolutionary relationships were explored in the context of currently known Bartonella species and genotypes. Phylogenetic and gene network analyses point to an early evolutionary association and subsequent radiation of bartonellae with bat flies and their hosts. The recovery of unique clades, uniting Bartonella genotypes from bat flies and bats, supports previous ideas of these flies potentially being vectors for Bartonella. Presence of bartonellae in some female bat flies and their pupae suggests vertical transmission across developmental stages. The specific function of bartonellae in bats and bat flies remains a subject of debate, but in addition to pathogenic interactions, parasitic, mutualistic, or reservoir functions need to be considered.
Molecular dynamics investigation of an ethanol-water solution

Abstract A molecular dynamics simulation of a 0.1 M ethanol-water solution with an air/solution interface was performed. Redistribution of ethanol molecules was observed during the simulation, which was initiated from a bulk solution. The results of the simulation show good agreement with surface tension measurements and the number density profiles of the ethanol excess from neutron reflectivity experiments. A depletion layer beneath the ethanol surface excess was revealed by the simulation. Ethanol molecules are oriented at the surface such that the alkyl group points out of the solution. The number of water molecules involved in the hydrogen bonding with the ethanol molecules decreases by a factor of 2 between the surface and the bulk.
A Modular 1 mm $^{3}$ Die-Stacked Sensing Platform With Low Power I $^{2}$ C Inter-Die Communication and Multi-Modal Energy Harvesting

A 1.0 mm3 general-purpose sensor node platform with heterogeneous multi-layer structure is proposed. The sensor platform benefits from modularity by allowing the addition/removal of IC layers. A new low power I2C interface is introduced for energy efficient inter-layer communication with compatibility to commercial I2C protocols. A self-adapting power management unit is proposed for efficient battery voltage down conversion for wide range of battery voltages and load current. The power management unit also adapts itself by monitoring energy harvesting conditions and harvesting sources and is capable of harvesting from solar, thermal and microbial fuel cells. An optical wakeup receiver is proposed for sensor node programming and synchronization with 228 pW standby power. The system also includes two processors, timer, temperature sensor, and low-power imager. Standby power of the system is 11 nW.
HCI at the University of Michigan's school of information

The School of Information at the University of Michigan is a new graduate school that offers highly interdisciplinary opportunities in education and research. We have a program in HCI as well as Library and Information Sciences, Archives and Record Management, and are discussing offerings in Future Systems Architecture, Organizational Information Systems.
Competing to Be Certain (But Wrong): Market Dynamics and Excessive Confidence in Judgment

In this paper, we investigate how market competition contributes to the expression of overconfidence among those competing for influence. We find evidence that market competition exacerbates the tendency to express excessive confidence. This evidence comes from experiments in which advisors attempt to sell their advice. In the first, advisors must compete with other advice sellers. In the second, advisors and their customers are paired. Advisors are overconfident in both studies and it helps advisors sell their advice. However, competition between advisors in the market further exacerbates overconfidence. In a third study, we demonstrate that the market competition drives overconfidence even when advisors vary in quality. We also investigate the strategic expressions and interpretations of confidence by both sides in the exchange. This paper was accepted by Peter Wakker, decision analysis.
Patterns of cranial shape variation in the Papionini (Primates: Cercopithecinae)

Traditional classifications of the Old World monkey tribe Papionini (Primates: Cercopithecinae) recognized the mangabey genera Cercocebus and Lophocebus as sister taxa. However, molecular studies have consistently found the mangabeys to be diphyletic, with Cercocebus and Mandrillus forming a clade to the exclusion of all other papionins. Recent studies have identified cranial and postcranial features which distinguish the Cercocebus-Mandrillus clade, however the detailed similarities in cranial shape between the mangabey genera are more difficult to reconcile with the molecular evidence. Given the large size differential between members of the papionin molecular clades, it has frequently been suggested that allometric effects account for homoplasy in papionin cranial form. A combination of geometric morphometric, bivariate, and multivariate methods was used to evaluate the hypothesis that allometric scaling contributes to craniofacial similarities between like-sized papionin taxa. Patterns of allometric and size-independent cranial shape variation were subsequently described and related to known papionin phylogenetic relationships and patterns of development. Results confirm that allometric scaling of craniofacial shape characterized by positive facial allometry and negative neurocranial allometry is present across adult papionins. Pairwise comparisons of regression lines among genera revealed considerable homogeneity of scaling within the Papionini, however statistically significant differences in regression lines also were noted. In particular, Cercocebus and Lophocebus exhibit a shared slope and significant vertical displacement of their allometric lines relative to other papionins. These findings give no support to narrowly construed hypotheses of uniquely shared patterns of allometric scaling, either between sister taxa or across all papionins. However, more general allometric trends do appear to account for a substantial proportion of papionin cranial shape variation, most notably in those features which have influenced traditional morphological phylogenies. Examination of size-uncorrelated shape variation gives no clear support to molecular phylogenies, but underscores the absence of morphometric similarities between the mangabey genera when size effects are controlled. Patterns of allometric and size-uncorrelated shape variation indicate conservatism of cranial form in non- Theropithecus papionins, and suggest that Papio represents the primitive morphometric pattern for the African papionins. Lophocebus exhibits a divergent morphometric pattern, clearly distinguishable from other papionins, most notably Cercocebus. These results clarify patterns of cranial shape variation among the extant Papionini and lay the groundwork for studies of related fossil taxa.
Transforming growth factor-β1 antisense treatment of rat vein grafts reduces the accumulation of collagen and increases the accumulation of h-caldesmon

Background The main cause of occlusion and vein graft failure after peripheral and coronary arterial reconstruction is intimal hyperplasia. Transforming growth factor β-1 (TGF-β1) is a pleiotropic cytokine known to have powerful effects on cell growth, apoptosis, cell differentiation, and extracellular matrix synthesis. Methods To investigate the role of TGF-β1 in intimal hyperplasia, we used adenovirus to deliver to superficial epigastric vein messenger RNA (mRNA) antisense to TGF-β1 (Ad-AST) or the sequence encoding the bioactive form of TGF-β1 (Ad-BAT). Infection with "empty" virus was used as a control (Ad-CMVpLpA). The treated vein was then used for an interposition graft into rat femoral artery. Grafts were harvested at 1, 2, 4, and 12 weeks and formalin-fixed for histologic studies or placed in liquid nitrogen for mRNA studies. Results Ad-AST treatment resulted in an overall reduction of TGF-β1 expression ( P = .001), and Ad-BAT treatment resulted in an overall increase in TGF-β1 expression ( P = .007). Histologic analysis showed Ad-AST caused reduced collagen build up in the neointima at 12 weeks ( P = .0001). Immunohistochemical staining for h-caldesmon at 12 weeks indicated Ad-AST increased smooth muscle cells throughout the vessel wall compared with Ad-CMVpLpA ( P = .0024) or Ad-BAT ( P = .04). Ad-AST also resulted in reduced CD68-positive cells in the media/adventitia ( P = .005 vs Ad-CMVpLpA, P = .01 vs Ad-BAT). To further understand how Ad-AST was influencing the build up of collagen, we performed quantitative polymerase chain reaction on complimentary DNA (cDNA) from homogenates of the vein grafts. Tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) was increased at 1 week by Ad-BAT ( P = .048 vs Ad-CMVpLpA) and decreased by Ad-AST at all time points ( P ≤ .038). The mRNA for collagen-1 α-1 was decreased by Ad-AST at 2, 4, and 12 weeks ( P ≤ .05) and increased by Ad-BAT at 1 week ( P = .01). Conclusions TGF-β1 antisense treatment of vein grafts prevents the accumulation of collagen in the neointima in part by (1) changing the proportions of the cell types populating the vein graft wall, (2) reducing the mRNA for TIMPs, and (3) reducing the amount of collagen mRNA. With the Ad-AST and Ad-BAT treatments, we have been able to tip the maturation of the vein graft toward positive remodeling (artery-like phenotype) or toward negative remodeling (fibroproliferation and stenosis), respectively.
Use of zeolites for treating natural gas co-produced waters in Wyoming, USA

Abstract Fast development of the coalbed natural gas (CBNG) industry in many parts of the western US has resulted in the co-production of potentially saline-sodic waters, hereafter referred to as CBNG water. Management of CBNG water is a major environmental challenge because of its quantity and quality. In this study, the potential utilization of three calcium (Ca2+)-rich zeolites were examined for removal of sodium (Na+) from CBNG waters. The zeolite samples examined were from the St. Cloud (ST) mine in Winston, NM, the Bear River (BR) mine in Preston, ID, and a mine in Arizona (AZ). The zeolite materials were used in adsorption and column experiments to evaluate sorption as a function of water chemistry, particle size and flow rate. Regeneration and potential reuse of the media were also examined. Surrogate CBNG waters that simulated the water chemistry of CBNG waters were used in the different studies. Although the AZ-zeolite is a Ca2+-rich chabazite, results from column studies indicate there was essentially no Na+ exchange, suggesting the Ca2+ is tightly held on chabazite adsorption sites. Results for ST-zeolite and BR-zeolite, which are clinoptilolite zeolites, indicated that a Langmuir model fit the adsorption data well. The maximum adsorption capacities from the adsorption curves for ST-zeolite and BR-zeolite were 9.6 and 12.3 (mg/g), respectively, accounting for approximately 38% and 39% of their measured CEC values. Column studies indicated that a metric tonne (1,000 kg) of ST-zeolite and BR-zeolite can be used to accumulatively treat 16,000 and 60,000 L of CBNG water, respectively, in order to lower the sodium adsorption ratio (SAR, mmol1/2L−1/2) of the simulated CBNG water from 30 to an acceptable level of 10. Based on the results of this study, Na+ removal with clinoptilolite zeolite appears to be a potential water treatment technology for maximizing the beneficial use of poor-quality CBNG water. Ongoing studies are evaluating water treatment techniques involving the direct application of zeolite to CBNG waters and development of a field scale prototype.
Potential Effects of Mercury on Threatened California Black Rails

San Francisco Bay (SFB) estuary sediments contain high levels of mercury (Hg), and tidal marsh resident species may be vulnerable to Hg contamination. We examined Hg concentrations in California black rails, a threatened waterbird species that inhabits SFB tidal salt marshes. We captured 127 black rails during the prebreeding and postbreeding seasons and examined the influence of site, sex, and year on Hg, methylmercury (MeHg), and also selenium (Se) concentrations in feathers and blood. Feather Hg concentrations averaged 6.94 μg/g dry weight (dw) and MeHg and Se concentrations in blood averaged 0.38 and 0.42 μg/g wet weight (ww). We used Akaike’s information criterion model selection process to evaluate the importance of year, site, sex, and age on patterns of MeHg concentrations; sex and year were the most important of these factors. Feather Hg concentrations (dw) were higher in males (8.22 μg/g) than females (6.63 μg/g) and higher in adult birds (7.36 μg/g) than in hatch-year birds (4.61 μg/g). A substantial portion of SFB black rail populations may be at risk of reproductive effects due to MeHg contamination, as 32–78% of feathers and <10% of blood samples exceeded no observed adverse effect levels. Sea level rise and other anthropogenic threats to endemic tidal marsh species such as black rails may be exacerbated by the presence of MeHg. Further study of population demographics and toxicological effects would further elucidate the effects of MeHg contamination on black rail populations in SFB.
Novel Genotyping and Quantitative Analysis of Neuraminidase Inhibitor Resistance-Associated Mutations in Influenza A Viruses by Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism Analysis

Neuraminidase (NA) inhibitors are among the first line of defense against influenza virus infection. With the increased worldwide use of the drugs, antiviral susceptibility surveillance is increasingly important for effective clinical management and for public health epidemiology. Effective monitoring requires effective resistance detection methods. We have developed and validated a novel genotyping method for rapid detection of established NA inhibitor resistance markers in influenza viruses by single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis. The multi- or monoplex SNP analysis based on single nucleotide extension assays was developed to detect NA mutations H275Y and I223R/V in pandemic H1N1 viruses, H275Y in seasonal H1N1 viruses, E119V and R292K in seasonal H3N2 viruses, and H275Y and N295S in H5N1 viruses. The SNP analysis demonstrated high sensitivity for low-content NA amplicons (0.1 to 1 ng/μl) and showed 100% accordant results against a panel of defined clinical isolates. The monoplex assays for the H275Y NA mutation allowed precise and accurate quantification of the proportions of wild-type and mutant genotypes in virus mixtures (5% to 10% discrimination), with results comparable to those of pyrosequencing. The SNP analysis revealed the lower growth fitness of an H275Y mutant compared to the wild-type pandemic H1N1 virus by quantitatively genotyping progeny viruses grown in normal human bronchial epithelial cells. This novel method offers high-throughput screening capacity, relatively low costs, and the wide availability of the necessary equipment, and thus it could provide a much-needed approach for genotypic screening of NA inhibitor resistance in influenza viruses.
Explanation and conceptual memory

This study investigated whether memory for well-understood ideas could be improved by deeper understanding. In Experiment 1, subjects learned ideas presented with or without additional explanations designed to increase understanding of the ideas. In Experiment 2, subjects learned ideas presented with explanations or qualifications that increased processing, but not understanding, of the ideas. Explanations and qualifications both increased free, as well as cued, recall of the ideas, suggesting that the effects of explanation are the result of increased processing, rather than of deeper understanding.
Optimization of flash distillation plants for sea-water conversion☆

Abstract To find an optimal solution for the design of a chemical process plant, all that is really required is an electronic computer of adequate size and speed and some detailed work which consists in disclosing the defining characteristics of the relevant function and in suitably controlling these. Unduly large programmes, however, are difficult to handle and may not even be usable for lack of sufficient storage capacity and computing time. Hence, the planning of a plant must be carried out in two stages. In the first stage a series of optimum plant data is determined by means of a basic design procedure, an approximate estimation, and a minimum-seeking sub-programme. In the second stage these data are used as initial values for the detailed design and cost estimation.
Erythropoietin Activates Two Distinct Signaling Pathways Required for the Initiation and the Elongation of c-myc

Erythropoietin (Epo) stimulation of erythroid cells results in the activation of several kinases and a rapid induction of c-myc expression. Protein kinase C is necessary for Epo up-regulation of c-myc by promoting elongation at the 3'-end of exon 1. PKCepsilon mediates this signal. We now show that Epo triggers two signaling pathways to c-myc. Epo rapidly up-regulated Myc protein in BaF3-EpoR cells. The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor LY294002 blocked Myc up-regulation in a concentration-dependent manner but had no effect on the Epo-induced phosphorylation of ERK1 and ERK2. LY294002 also had no effect on Epo up-regulation of c-fos. MEK1 inhibitor PD98059 blocked both the c-myc and the c-fos responses to Epo. PD98059 and the PKC inhibitor H7 also blocked the phosphorylation of ERK1 and ERK2. PD98059 but not LY294002 inhibited Epo induction of ERK1 and ERK2 phosphorylation in normal erythroid cells. LY294002 blocked transcription of c-myc at exon 1. PD98059 had no effect on transcription from exon 1 but, rather, blocked Epo-induced c-myc elongation at the 3'-end of exon 1. These results identify two Epo signaling pathways to c-myc, one of which is PI3K-dependent operating on transcriptional initiation, whereas the other is mitogen-activated protein kinase-dependent operating on elongation.
RADIOGRAPHIC EVALUATION OF APPENDICULAR SKELETAL MATURATION IN THE RHESUS MONKEY

Longitudinal radiographic evaluation of skeletal maturation in 28 rhesus monkeys demonstrated that the majority of appendicular ossification centers were identified radiographically by 175 days of age and that physeal union was complete by 7.3 years in males and 7.2 years in females.
2 MIST – A Measurement Selection Tool

This paper describes a tool that is being jointly developed by the INCOSE Measurement Working Group (MWG) and a group at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division under sponsorship of the Office of Naval Research (ONR). The tool is a database of key measures to be used throughout a complex system development for that system's evaluation and assessment. The tool can be used both by program management and the technical personnel involved in doing the evaluation to identify which measures should be collected covering the project, the system development process, and the system itself.
Minicomputer technology for bio-medical information dissemination

Bio-medical information dissemination is continuing to increase in complexity. This trend places additional work on both the information user and supplier. In the medical community the chief information supplier usually is the library of health sciences.
Study of the Fates and Effects of the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill on Benthic Sediments in Two Bays in Prince William Sound, Alaska. 1. Study Design, Chemistry, and Source Fingerprinting

This study was conducted to assess the subtidal effects of the Exxon Valdez oil spill in a large embayment in Prince William Sound, AK. A stratified random-sampling design was used to compare stations in an oiled bay, the Bay of Isles, with stations in Drier Bay, a bay that received little impact from the spill. The study included sediment chemistry, benthic ecology, and bioaccumulation elements. Only the results on chemistry of the oil in the bottom sediments are reported here. Analyses of sediment samples revealed four types of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in the two bays: (1) Alaska North Slope (ANS) crude oil attributable to the spill, (2) natural oil seep-derived background, (3) pyrogenic, and (4) diagenetic. The Bay of Isles subtidal sediments contained significantly higher levels of weathered ANS-PAH attributable to the spill than did Drier Bay. However, the levels of ANS-PAH in the Bay of Isles were generally lower than those of the petrogenic background PAH naturally present in the sub...
Techniques for mapping the spatial distribution of stopping π− mesons in tissue☆

Abstract A number of processes leading to the emission of photons and neutrons in π − capture reactions are discussed for potential use in radiation therapy to determine the stopping π − region. It is concluded that the scheme of detecting collimated medium energy γ -rays is the most effective.
Decreased actin and tubulin synthesis in 3T3 cells after transformation by SV40 virus.

Abstract Actin and tubulin are major protein constituents of 3T3 and SV40 virus-transformed 3T3 cells. We have fractionated growing, confluent and SV403T3 cells into particulate and soluble fractions using conditions designed to sediment microtubules, actin filaments or membrane associated actin or tubulin. The ratio of particulate to soluble actin synthesized in growing or confluent 3T3 cells is 2 to 1, while the ratio is reversed in transformed cells. There is also a 60% decrease in particulate tubulin synthesis in SV403T3 cells when compared with that in normal cells. Similar results are obtained when total actin and tubulin amounts are determined. The half-lives of actin, tubulin and total protein are over 3 days in growing 3T3 and SV40 cells and decrease over two-fold in confluent 3T3 cells. The significance of these results with respect to loss of contact inhibition and development of malignancy by these cells after transformation is discussed.
Mechanisms Responsible for the Promoter-specific Effects of Myocardin

Understanding the mechanism of smooth muscle cell (SMC) differentiation will provide the foundation for elucidating SMC-related diseases such as atherosclerosis, restenosis, and asthma. Recent studies have demonstrated that the interaction of SRF with the co-activator myocardin is a critical determinant of smooth muscle development. It has been proposed that the specific transcriptional activation of smooth muscle-restricted genes (as opposed to other SRF-dependent genes) by myocardin results from the presence of multiple CArG boxes in smooth muscle genes that facilitate myocardin homodimer formation. This proposal was further tested in the current study. Our results show that the SMC-specific telokin promoter, which contains only a single CArG box, is strongly activated by myocardin. Furthermore, myocardin and a dimerization defective mutant myocardin induce expression of endogenous telokin but not c-fos in 10T1/2 fibroblast cells. Knocking down myocardin by small interfering RNA decreased telokin promoter activity and expression in A10 SMCs. A series of telokin and c-fos promoter chimeric and mutant reporter genes was generated to determine the mechanisms responsible for the promoter-specific effects of myocardin. Data from these experiments demonstrated that the ets binding site in the c-fos promoter partially blocks the activation of this promoter by myocardin. However, the binding of ets factors alone was not sufficient to explain the promoter-specific effects of myocardin. Elements 3' of the CArG box in the c-fos promoter act in concert with the ets binding site to block the ability of myocardin to activate the promoter. Conversely, elements 5' and 3' of the CArG box in the telokin promoter act in concert with the CArG box to facilitate myocardin stimulation of the promoter. Together these data suggest that the promoter specificity of myocardin is dependent on complex combinatorial interactions of multiple cis elements and their trans binding factors.
The effects of preventive vocal hygiene education on the vocal hygiene habits and perceptual vocal characteristics of training singers

The purpose of the present study was to determine the effects of vocal hygiene education on the vocal hygiene behaviors and perceptual vocal characteristics of untrained singers. Eleven adult untrained singers served as subjects. They attended four 1-hour class sessions on vocal hygiene, including anatomy and physiology of the phonatory mechanism, vocally abusive behaviors, voice disorders commonly seen in singers, and measures to prevent voice disorders. Pre- and postinstruction surveys were used to record subjects' vocal abuses and their perceptions of their speaking and singing voice. They also rated their perceived value of vocal hygiene education. Results revealed minimal changes in vocal hygiene behaviors and perceptual voice characteristics. The subjects did report a high degree of benefit and learning, however.
What is Next for the Dietary Reference Intakes for Bone Metabolism Related Nutrients Beyond Calcium: Phosphorus, Magnesium, Vitamin D, and Fluoride?

The science supporting the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) for phosphorus, magnesium, vitamin D, and fluoride was examined in this review. Along with the previous article on calcium in this series both of these reviews represent all the DRI for nutrients considered essential for bone metabolism and health, as reported in the Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Vitamin D, and Fluoride (Institute of Medicine, Food and Nutrition Board (FNB), 1997). The Recomended Dietary Allowances (RDA) or adequate intake (AI), and the tolerable upper intake level (UL) were recommended for each of these essential nutrients. For adults and in the case of fluoride, for infants as well, UL were calculated since all of these nutrients have the potential for mild to detrimental side effects. Dietary intake data and controversies regarding the role these nutrients may play in other chronic diseases have also been discussed. Advances and controversies reported since the publication of the DRI for these nutrients were also addressed in this review. A recent Dietary Reference Intake Research Synthesis Workshop report identified an extensive range of suggested future research directions needed to improve our understanding of these bone-related nutrients and their contributions to human health.
Effects of reinforcer magnitude on an animal model of impulsive behavior

The effects of altering sucrose solution concentration on discounting of delayed rewards in rats were examined. Five different delays were used (0, 1, 2, 4, and 8 s) and three different sucrose solution concentrations (3, 10, and 30%). It was hypothesized that high value sucrose solution concentrations would be discounted less than low value sucrose solution concentrations. The results indicated that the rats discounted the 30% sucrose solution concentration at a higher rate than the 3 or 10% sucrose solution concentration, a finding that apparently contradicted the hypothesis that higher value sucrose solution concentrations would be discounted less than lower value sucrose solution concentrations. However, a follow up experiment indicated that the 3 and 10% sucrose solution concentrations were preferred over the 30% concentration. Thus the results of Experiment 1 can be interpreted as supporting the hypothesis that high valued sucrose solution concentrations are discounted less than lower valued sucrose solution concentrations.
Evolution of glycolytic enzymes

The requirements for glycolysis are examined in relation to other essential metabolic processes in the most primitive organisms. The construction of more complex enzymes from primitive domain building blocks is assessed with respect to glycolytic enzymes. Special attention is given to the evolution of the NAD binding domain in dehydrogenases and the related, frequently observed nucleotide binding domain. An attempt is made to differentiate between convergence and divergence of frequently observed domains. Consideration is given to the structure-function relation of these domains and the development of quaternary structure in later stages of evolution. Some attention is also given to the evolution of structural adaptation to extreme environments as a means of differentiating between essential functions and specific modifications.
The “r” that psychology forgot: Research on writing processes

Development of theory and methodology related to the psychology of reading and mathematical problem solving has far outpaced progress in the realm of the psychology of writing. However, recently published theories may serve to link written language production research with mainstream psychology, and new computer-based methodologies may help to make conducting research in writing more tractable. This paper describes several new initiatives for studying writing within a framework based on recent theories of working memory.
Influences of gender, need for affect, and tolerance for risk-taking on use of information sources

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine gender, need for affect and tolerance for risk-taking as influences on consumers’ use of information sources. Design/methodology/approach – A survey was conducted using a convenience sample of 171 male and 180 female US college students. Data were analyzed using PASW Statistics 18 and Analysis of Moment Structure (AMOS) 18. Findings – Results showed that consumers may be characterized by their use of information sources. First, consumers who use internal information sources are women. Second, consumers who use personal external information sources are women and individuals who enjoy processing feelings. Third, consumers who use impersonal external information sources are women, feeling processors, and risk-takers. Consumers in the third group may find the market-dominant information more useful than the personal opinions of reference groups, indicating that they may tend to be pro-active in exploring and getting what they want rather than allowing their re...
Properties of high-efficiency zinc-diffused Ga1-xAlxAs light-emitting diodes

The external quantum efficiency of zinc-diffused hemispherically-shaped Ga1-xAlxAs light-emitting diodes has been investigated as a function of temperature, peak emission energy, and current. External quantum efficiencies as high as 13.5% and 52% have been achieved at 296°K and 77°K, respectively. An analysis of the temperature dependence of the spectral characteristics (emission spectral shape, peak emission energy, and spectral half-width) shows that the improved efficiencies at room temperature result from reduced internal bulk absorption due to a composition gradient in the emitter. Values as small as 3.4 have been observed for the ratio of the 77°K efficiency to the 296°K efficiency. The decrease of the external quantum efficiency at high peak emission energies (short wavelengths) agreed with the decrease theoretically predicted from the composition dependence of the direct and indirect energy gaps of Ga1-xAlxAs. A decrease of external quantum efficiency at low currents was shown to be due to a nonradiative parallel component of current.
Impact of 2,3,7,8-TCDD exposure on survival, growth, and behavior of ospreys breeding in Wisconsin, USA

Osprey (Pandion halieatus) eggs collected from areas (Castle Rock and Petenwell Flowages) 7 km downstream from two bleached-kraft mill facilities from 1992 to 1996 contained much higher levels of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlordibenzo-p-dioxin (range = 29 to 162 pg/g wet weight, n = 18) than eggs collected from two reference areas upstream (range = below detection limits to 23.8 pg/g, n = 15). Levels in eggs of the remaining planar halogenated hydrocarbon congeners and other nonplanar organochlorines were not statistically different between the contaminated and upstream areas (p > 0.05). We placed eggs from the contaminated area into nests at both reference areas (group A) and eggs from the reference areas into nests at the contaminated area (group B). No significant differences in egg hatching or chick fledging rates were observed between these groups and nests left unmanipulated at both reference areas (group C) and the contaminated area (group D). Mass increase rates of chicks differed significantly (p = 0.03), with the highest rates from group C and the lowest rates from group B. This difference cannot be easily attributed to differences in parental nest attentiveness or food provisioning, which were greater at the contaminated area. We conclude that although current planar halogenated hydrocarbon exposure levels were not affecting hatching and fledging rates, they may have affected chick growth.
Models for teaching emergency medicine skills

Teaching and retaining psychomotor skills presents problems in emergency medicine. A variety of models, including animals, plastic models, paid or unpaid volunteers, patients recently pronounced dead, and cadavers (the bodies of people who donate their bodies to science), have been developed to alleviate this problem. Practical and ethical concerns in using these models are discussed, with an emphasis on the cadaver model and on those procedures that are best taught on cadavers.