cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Binding of a 40-kDa Protein to the N-myc 3′-Untranslated Region Correlates with Enhanced N-myc Expression in Human Neuroblastoma

Subclones of neuronal (N) and non-neuronal (S) cells established from neuroblastoma tumors cultured in vitro differ in their growth characteristics and N-myc expression. N (W-N) cells derived from the NBL-W cell line express 5-fold higher levels of N-myc mRNA and 10-12-fold higher levels of protein than S cells (W-S), despite having the same N-myc copy number. This study demonstrates that the steady-state levels of N-myc are largely determined by differences in N-myc mRNA stability. The half-life of N-myc mRNA in the W-N cells is ~35 min compared with ~6 min in the W-S cells. Turnover of labile mRNAs is thought to be mediated in part by the interactions of trans-acting factors with elements within the 3ʹ-untranslated region. RNA UV cross-linking assays using W-N cell lysate demonstrate abundant quantities of a protein complex that is 40 kDa in size (p40) that binds to the N-myc 3ʹ-untranslated region. p40 is barely detectable in W-S cells. We have mapped two distinct regions within the 3ʹ-UTR that specifically bind p40 (base pairs 5694-5715 and 6465-6482). Analysis of nine additional neuroblastoma cell lines shows that p40 activity correlates with enhanced expression of N-myc. p40 activity is also detected in 5 of 19 primary neuroblastomas, and activity is associated with clinically aggressive disease. In the accompanying study, we identify p40 as a member of the embryonic lethal abnormal vision (ELAV)-like family of RNA-binding proteins. Our studies suggest that ELAV-like proteins may play a role in the regulation of N-myc mRNA turnover and thereby modulate the steady-state levels of N-myc expression and tumor cell phenotype.
Creating a New Literacies Coaching Ethos

This article examines the case studies of 2 middle grades professional learning communities that focused on teaching and learning with new literacies strategies. The new literacies theoretical lens that frames this study recognizes literacy as multimodal (e.g., print, image, sound) and tied to one's sociocultural identities and subjectivities. Data included 50 hr of field notes and transcripts from observation in the professional learning communities meetings and in classroom teaching contexts. We also conducted exit interviews. Matrix and discourse analyses of participants' enacted identities and subjectivities revealed differential affinity, discourse, and institutional identities and instruction across the 2 case studies: one of mandated participation and the other of voluntary participation. Participants situated their views of literacy in relation to the underperforming schools in which they taught, in which basic, print-based assessments trumped other forms of literacy and learning.
Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology

So many new and exciting topics in petrology have appeared over the last several years that it has become difficult to find a text that deals adequately with fundamentals as well as current topics; the present book may be one of the better texts in its field today because it achieves this combination with clarity and appropriate emphasis. The book provides a comprehensive coverage of descriptive, theoretical, and experimental topics. The relationship between the origin and evolution of igneous and metamorphic rocks and the associated physical and tectonic processes is the unifying theme of the text. The book is intended as a text for undergraduate geology majors with a background in physical and historical geology and mineralogy. It is divided into four main categories: magmatic rock bodies, magmatic systems, metamorphic bodies and systems, and the early history of the earth and other planetary bodies. The organization of the first three of these sections is intended to be flexible in scope, emphasis, and variety of subject matter. Each chapter is outlined, prefaced with an overview of the section, and summarized in outline form. Key terms appear in bold type, and study questions are provided in interpretive chapters. Breadth and clarity of subject matter is emphasized, and good use is made of figures, tables, and photographs of rocks in the field, in hand specimen, and in thin section. The appendix contains a summary of some petrographic techniques, a review of the physical and optical properties of some rock-forming minerals, and representative chemical analyses of some major rock types.
CORRELATION ANALYSIS OF RAINFALL AND ANNUAL RING INDEX OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA BLACKJACK AND POST OAK

A B S T R A C T Yearly ring-width indices were determined for Quercus stellata and Q. marilandica in central Oklahoma for the period 1892-1971 and were used as dependent variables in correlation analyses with corresponding series of previous growth rates and various precipitation totals as independent variables. Results of multiple correlation show that approximately 60% of the variance in ring indices of both species can be accounted for by precipitation and previous growth rates. Simple linear correlation analysis of precipitation data shows that the ring index value for a year is significantly correlated with rainfall in the current spring and in the previous summer. THIS STUDY represents a continuation of the series
OA05.03. Impact of a mind-body medicine skills course on medical students’ perceived stress, mindfulness and elements of emotional intelligence

Purpose Most medical schools list self-awareness, self-care and personal growth as key educational competencies. Yet, studies have reported that traits such as altruism and empathy tend to decline throughout medical school training. To foster medical student self-awareness and mindfulness, which may improve their emotional intelligence (EI), Georgetown University School of Medicine (GUSOM) offers an experiential course to medical students in mind-body medicine skills. The purpose is to expose students to a variety of mind-body approaches (e.g., mindfulness meditation, autogenic training, guided imageries, movement, and writing exercises), as well as group sharing that involves listening generously and without judgment.
Advanced solar thermal receiver technology

Development of advanced receiver technology for solar thermal receivers designed for electric power generation or for industrial applications, such as fuels and chemical production or industrial process heat, is described. The development of this technology is focused on receivers that operate from 1000 F to 3000 F and above. Development strategy is mapped in terms of application requirements, and the related system and technical requirements. Receiver performance requirements and current development efforts are covered for five classes of receiver applications: high temperature, advanced Brayton, Stirling, and Rankine cycle engines, and fuels and chemicals.
Abstract 4516: Targeted delivery of resveratrol to improve therapeutic outcome in prostate cancer.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC Conventional chemotherapeutics offered to treat prostate cancer (PCa) are not selectively targeted and due to this fact they are toxic to the normal cells. Thus, it is imperative to identify new anti-cancer agents and/or methods to selectively target PCa cells without affecting normal cells. In this regard, resveratrol (trans-3, 5, 4’-trihydroxystilbene), a plant polyphenol, has shown very promising results. Despite the proven anti-tumor effects of resveratrol, clinical use of this compound is restricted due to its poor bioavailability. To surmount these problems, we developed nanoparticles, loaded with resveratrol, using a planetary-balled milling (PBM) technique and tagged them with folate for targeted delivery to PCa cells, which express high affinity folate receptors. Image Stream multispectral imaging was used to measure the response of resveratrol-loaded PBM nanoparticles, and free resveratrol on various PCa cell lines. Resveratrol-loaded folic acid-coated PBM nanoparticles selectively targeted PCa cells and induced apoptosis. Furthermore, our results indicate that targeted delivery of resveratrol using PBM nanoparticles was 70-85% more effective in killing PCa cells at concentrations lower than the IC50 of free resveratrol. Citation Format: Rajesh Singh, Pranav Gupta, Shailesh Singh, James W. Lillard. Targeted delivery of resveratrol to improve therapeutic outcome in prostate cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4516. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-4516
The Cytoplasmic and N-terminal Transmembrane Domains of Cytochrome P450 Contain Independent Signals for Retention in the Endoplasmic Reticulum

Microsomal cytochrome P450 is inserted into the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) by its N-terminal signal/anchor sequence which also functions as an ER retention signal. To analyze further potential retention signals of cytochrome P450, topological domains of cytochrome P450 2C1 or 2C2, epidermal growth factor receptor, a plasma membrane protein, and bacterial alkaline phosphatase, a secreted protein were exchanged. The N-terminal signal/anchor of cytochrome P450 2C1 functioned as an ER retention signal when placed at the N terminus of several reporter proteins but not when fused at the C terminus of the extracellular domain of epidermal growth factor receptor, with or without a heterologous cytoplasmic domain. Chimeric proteins in which the cytoplasmic domain of cytochrome P450 2C2 was substituted for that of epidermal growth factor receptor were retained in the ER indicating that an independent retention signal is present in the cytoplasmic part of cytochrome P450 2C2. These chimeras were enzymatically active which argues against misfolding as the primary cause of retention. The ER retention signal of the cytoplasmic domain could not be localized to a single amino acid segment by deletion analysis. These results show that cytochrome P450 2C2 contains redundant, complex ER retention signals in its cytoplasmic and N-terminal hydrophobic domains and that the function of the N-terminal signal is context-dependent.
Receptors coupled to adenylate cyclase in isolated rabbit retina.

Abstract Intact pieces or homogenates of rabbit retina were exposed to various established or putative retinal neurotransmitters for the study of receptors (or receptor-subtypes) linked to the production of cAMP. Since a dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase has been previously characterized in the retina of several species, the novel D 1 -agonist SKF 38393 was applied under similar experimental conditions. This compound was found to be more potent (although less efficacious) than dopamine, confirming the existence of a population of D 1 -receptors. On the other hand, the novel D 1 -antagonist SCH 23390 was able to inhibit the stimulating effects of dopamine and of SKF 38393 in a concentration-dependent manner. Attempts to detect D 2 -receptors (negatively coupled with adenylate cyclase) were not conclusive, when a selective D 2 -agonist (quinpirole) was applied in the absence or presence of a D 2 -antagonist (sulpiride). A stimulation of cAMP production (mediated by A 2 -receptors) was also detected in response to adenosine or adenosine-analogs, which was blocked by IBMX in a concentration-dependent manner. The effects of adenosine were potentiated in the presence of dipyridamole, an adenosine uptake inhibitor. Compared to the effects of dopamine and adenosine, the stimulation induced by VIP, a retinal neuropeptide, was found to be much more pronounced. These results indicate that retinal cAMP can be generated by three different neurotransmitters in an independent way via the stimulation of specific receptors.
Degradation of β-Casein by Micrococcal Cell-Free Preparations

Abstract A study was made of the degradation of β-casein by micrococcal cell-free preparations. Cell-free preparations of Micrococcus freudenreichii, Micrococcus caseolyticus , and Micrococcus candidus hydrolyzed β-casein at pH 5.0 to 6.5 and 5 to 30C in varying degrees. Maximal proteolysis for all three preparations occurred at pH 5.5 and 22C. Complete hydrolysis of β-casein by the three micrococci cell-free preparations occurred in 4 to 16 days at pH 5.5 and 22C, depending on the microbial species in the reaction mixture. Lowering incubation temperatures to 10C and 5C slowed κ -casein degradation. Sodium chloride (4.5%) in a M. freudenreichii reaction mixture also repressed degradation. β-Casein hydrolysis by micrococcal cell-free preparations at elevated temperatures indicated an important flavor and texture producing role for microbial enzymes from M. freudenreichii, M. caseolyticus , and M. candidus in the forced curing of ripened cheese.
What a person thinks upon learning he has chosen differently from others: Nice evidence for the persuasive-arguments explanation of choice shifts

Abstract Small shifts in choice occur even without discussion, when individuals merely know each other's preference. This appears to support an interpersonal comparison explanation of group induced shifts in choice and to refute explanations based on persuasive argumentation. The present study demonstrates the contrary, that such effects are consistent with the persuasive-arguments formulation and are obtained under particular conditions specified only by the latter theory, to wit: Knowledge of other's choices is assumed to lead a person to think of reasons (arguments) others might have had for their choices-reasons which ordinarily would not come to mind without this knowledge. Such reasoning functions in the same way as persuasive argumentation during group discussion; it causes the person to persuade himself that an alternative course of action now has greater merit than the one he initially preferred. To test this analysis, an experiment was performed in which subjects responded to choice-dilemma items under three different conditions: Following their own choice (I) they learned what several others had chosen and then wrote arguments in support of alternatives given in that same item; (II) they learned what several others had chosen and then wrote arguments in support of alternatives given in a different item; and (III) they received no information about others' choices but merely wrote arguments on that item. As predicted, shifts in choice occurred only if the person knew what others chose and had an opportunity to think about the latter (condition I); they did not occur if an opportunity to think of others' choices was denied (condition II), nor if knowledge of others' choices was withheld (condition III). Content analysis of the arguments subjects produced in conditions I and II completely supported the hypothesis, as did analyses of responses to postexperimental questionnaire which directly asked the subjects about their feelings and thoughts upon learning what others had chosen.
Development and study of a kind of parallel robot with 3-DOF

In this paper, a parallel robot with three translational degrees of freedom (DOF) is introduced and investigated. The robot consists of three tracks referred to as the base platform, a movable platform, two connecting legs and a translational-motion mechanism referred to as the third leg. The main aspects about its stricture, kinematics, workspace and dynamics are introduced. Through theoretical analyses and relevant tests, it shows some distinctive advantages, such as high stiffness and high ratio of force-to-weight, simple structure and simple kinematic equations, large workspace with no motion coupling and no singularity configuration. The unique performance of the robot gives a high potential and a brilliant prospect for its practical implementation in the manufacturing industry.
Lessons from beyond vision (sounds and audition)

Recent work on non-visual modalities aims to translate, extend, revise, or unify claims about perception beyond vision. This paper presents central lessons drawn from attention to hearing, sounds, and multimodality. It focuses on auditory awareness and its objects, and it advances more general lessons for perceptual theorizing that emerge from thinking about sounds and audition. The paper argues that sounds and audition no better support the privacy of perception’s objects than does vision; that perceptual objects are more diverse than an exclusively visual perspective suggests; and that multimodality is rampant. In doing so, it presents an account according to which audition affords awareness as of not just sounds, but also environmental happenings beyond sounds.
A New TetR Family Transcriptional Regulator Required for Morphogenesis in Streptomyces coelicolor

Both morphogenesis and antibiotic production in the streptomycetes are initiated in response to starvation, and these events are coupled. We previously described a transposon-generated mutant in Streptomyces coelicolor, SE293, that resulted in a bld strain that overproduced the antibiotic actinorhodin. The SCO1135 open reading frame identified by the insertion encodes a member of the TetR family of transcriptional regulators. Here we show that a constructed deletion of the SCO1135 open reading frame resulted in the same morphological and antibiotic production phenotype as the insertion mutant. The constructed deletion also resulted in constitutive expression of SCO1135 transcript, as well as that of the gene cluster immediately adjacent to it, SCO1134-1132, which encodes a putative molybdopterin binding complex. A His6-tagged version of the SCO1135 protein product was shown to bind the intergenic region between SCO1135 and SCO1134, which contains the apparent transcription start sites for each gene mapped by primer extension analysis. Increased expression of the SCO1134-1132 transcript in the SCO1135 deletion mutant also resulted in increased expression of xanthine dehydrogenase activity, confirming the predictions about these open reading framed based on protein similarity. We have designated the SCO1134-1142 gene cluster xdhABC and the regulator encoded by SCO1135 xdhR. We speculate that the inappropriate expression of xanthine dehydrogenase affects purine salvaging pathways at the onset of development, creating artificially high concentrations of both GTP and ppGpp and perturbing the pathways these molecules participate in for the initiation of morphogenesis and antibiotic production.
Pedogenic Zonation in the Well-Drained Soils of the Arctic Regions

Pedogenic zonation in the soils of the polar regions is a result of gradients in environmental factors and attendant chemical processes. Along a latitudinal transect, it is best manifested at well-drained sites and by soils developed on predominantly silicate rocks. Selected sites in arctic Alaska, in the Canadian arctic, Greenland, and Svalbard adequately fulfill these prerequisites. The processes of podzolization, decarbonization-carbonization, pervection, and salinization as models of arctic pedogenesis demonstrate that processes occurring in the temperate region also operate in the Far North. Brunification, melanization, and oxidation are recognized for the first time as current geochemical and pedogenic mechanisms of the Arctic region. Traditional genetic soil names have been retained because they represent a closer relationship to pedogenic processes than the more modern nomenclature. The identification, the chemical behavior, the strength, abundance, and mobility of the proton donors and conjugate bases are keys to the genesis of soils and the distinction of contrasting soil processes. This new approach to the understanding of arctic pedogenesis can be better fulfilled by collecting, analyzing, and interpreting soil solution obtained in situ.
On-line electrogenerated Ru(bpy)33+ chemiluminescent detection of β-blockers separated with capillary electrophoresis

Abstract A novel chemiluminescence (CL) detection scheme for capillary electrophoresis (CE) has been developed based on the Ru(bpy) 3 3+ CL reaction. Ru(bpy) 3 2+ is incorporated into the CE electrolyte and an electrode inserted into the outlet end of the capillary electrochemically oxidizes the Ru(bpy) 3 2+ into the active Ru(bpy) 3 3+ form, which then reacts with analytes at the end of the CE column and produces light. The performance of the system is characterized for a series of β-blockers, with an LOD for oxprenolol of 0.6 μg mL −1 and a separation efficiency of 15 000.
Pulmonary Disease Associated with Pleural “Asbestos” Plaques

The diagnosis of asbestos-related pulmonary disease is frequently based in part on the identification of pleural plaques; however, postmortem observations have suggested that pleural plaques may occur without associated pulmonary disease. To examine this issue, we compared the pulmonary parenchymal pathology in 93 patients with pleural plaques to 93 control patients matched for age, race, and sex, all autopsied at The Johns Hopkins Hospital between Jan 1, 1981 and March 31, 1986. Pulmonary sections were graded without knowledge of the patient's group for peribronchiolar fibrosis, other types of fibrosis, emphysema, and pleural changes. Correlations were found between the presence of pleural plaques and peribronchiolar fibrosis (p less than 0.001), alveolar fibrosis (p less than 0.05), large scars (p less than 0.02), scar-related emphysema (p less than 0.02), and pleural thickening (p less than 0.005). A history of smoking was also associated with pleural plaques (p less than 0.05). Interstitial fibrosis was not significantly different between the two groups. Peribronchiolar fibrosis was neither universally nor exclusively present in patients with pleural plaques, being found in 49 (53 percent) of 93 subjects with and 36 (39 percent) of 93 subjects without plaques. The results suggest that caution must be exercised in extrapolating from the identification of pleural plaques to a diagnosis of asbestos-related pulmonary disease.
Biomarkers of exposure to molybdenum and other metals in relation to testosterone among men from the United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2012.

Objective To examine the potential associations between biomarkers of metal exposure and serum testosterone in men of reproductive age in the general US population. Design Cross-sectional epidemiology study with adjustment for potential confounders. Setting Not applicable. Patient(s) Men recruited in the United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Intervention(s) Metal concentrations measured in whole blood, urine, and/or serum samples collected from 484 men. Main Outcome Measure(s) Serum T concentration. Result(s) Concentrations of the metals were detected in 69%–100% of the samples. In adjusted analyses where metals were modeled as a continuous variable, we found significant inverse associations between urinary molybdenum and serum copper and serum T, whereas there were significant positive associations between blood lead and cadmium and serum T. When metals were categorized into quartiles, analyses for serum copper and blood lead and cadmium produced significant associations in the same direction as the continuous measures. A suggestive inverse association was observed between quartiles of urinary molybdenum and serum T, but the association was statistically significant when molybdenum was categorized into quintiles. Significant positive associations were also observed for quartiles of blood Se and serum Zn and serum T. Conclusion(s) These findings add to the limited human evidence that exposure to molybdenum and other metals is associated with altered T in men, which may have important implications for male health. More research is needed to confirm the findings of our study.
Determining uni-connectivity in directed graphs

Abstract We consider the problem of determining whether a directed graph contains a pair of vertices connected by two distinct simple paths. A straightforward implementation using n depth-first searches requires O( nm ) time on an n -vertex, m -arc digraph; we obtain an O( n 2 )-time algorithm by using contraction wherever possible.
Electro-bioremediation of contaminated sediment by electrode enhanced capping.

Abstract In-situ capping often eliminates or slows natural degradation of hydrocarbon due to the reducing conditions in the sediments. The purpose of this research was to demonstrate a reactive capping technique, an electrode enhanced cap, to produce favorable conditions for hydrocarbon degradation and evaluate this reactive capping technique for contaminated sediment remediation. Two graphite electrodes were placed horizontally at different layers in a cap and connected to external power of 2 V. Redox potentials increased and pH decreased around the anode. Phenanthrene concentration decreased and PAH degradation genes increased in the vicinity of the anode. Phenanthrene concentrations at 0–1 cm sediment beneath the anode decreased to ∼50% of initial concentration over ∼70 days, while phenanthrene levels in control reactor kept unchanged. A degradation model of electrode enhanced capping was developed to simulate reaction-diffusion processes, and model results show that a reaction-dominated region was created in the vicinity of the anode. Although the degradation dominated region was thin, transport processes in a sediment cap environment are typically sufficiently slow to allow this layer to serve as a permeable reactive barrier for hydrocarbon decontamination.
Pattern formation in chick feather development: Distribution of β1‐integrin in normal and scaleless embryos

We have examined the immunolocalization of beta 1-integrin during feather development in the spino-lumbar tract of the backskin from normal and scaleless chick embryos. beta 1-integrin appears during early feather development in three distinct phases which correspond to important developmental events. The first phase (5-5 1/2 days of incubation; Hamburger and Hamilton [H.H.] stage 27) represents the period prior to the formation of dermis. During this phase, beta 1-integrin antiserum labels mesenchymal cells located in the central region of the spino-lumbar tract where the initiation site for feather development is located. The second phase (5 1/2-7 1/2 days of incubation; H.H. stages 28-32) corresponds to the period during which dermis is formed. The cells that make up the dermis are readily distinguished by their lack of beta 1-integrin immunostaining. The third phase (7 1/2-10 days of incubation; H.H. stages 33-36) begins with the sudden appearance of beta 1-integrin in the central and lateral regions of the dermis. The pattern of beta 1-integrin immunostaining in scaleless backskin becomes different from that of normal backskin during this phase. In normal backskin the dermal condensations of feather germs are not labeled with the beta 1-integrin antiserum. This produces a heterogeneous immunostaining pattern very similar to the pattern seen for Type I collagen (Mauger et al. [1982] Dev. Biol. 94:93-105). In contrast, homogeneous immunostaining is observed in the dermis of scaleless backskin. The initial time of appearance, manner of appearance, and pattern of integrin expression in the third phase suggest that beta 1-integrin may be involved in the stabilization of the feather pattern. We also observed the appearance of beta 1-integrin on the epidermal basal cells during the time of feather follicle formation. The beta 1-integrin antiserum reacts strongly with the baso-lateral surfaces of normal basal cells, yet the basal surfaces of the scaleless basal cells are unstained. This lack of immunostaining along the basal surfaces of the scaleless basal cells may relate to the abnormal adhesion between the epidermis and dermis in scaleless backskin.
THE ROLE OF SPATIO-TEMPORAL IMAGING CORRELATION (STIC) IN THE PRENATAL DIAGNOSIS OF CONGENITAL HEART DEFECTS

Spatio-temporal image correlation (STIC) is a feature of four-dimensional ultrasonography (4D US) that allows the acquisition of volume datasets akin to blocks of pathological specimens, where all the anatomical information is contained in the block and the information displayed depends on the level at which the block is cut. STIC has the additional advantages that these planes can be assessed in a virtual beating heart, and that rendering techniques can be used to gain additional insight into the structure and function of the fetal heart.
Mode-locked ultrafast Thulium fiber laser with all-fiber dispersion management

We report a mode-locked Thulium fiber oscillator that generates 4.8-nJ pulses at center wavelength of 1935nm with duration of 235fs. The anomalous dispersion in the cavity is compensated with the insertion of Er-doped fiber.
Spatial and temporal pattern of expression of the wingless and engrailed genes in the adult antenna is regulated by age-dependent mechanisms

The spatial and temporal pattern of expression of enhancer trap lines reporting on the wingless (wg) and engrailed (en) genes was characterized in the adult antenna of Drosophila melanogaster. The time courses of expression seen for wg and en, although different from each other, reveal a complex well-controlled pattern of temporal expression, providing evidence that regulatory mechanisms are preserved throughout the life span of the adult fly. Altering the life span demonstrates that the temporal patterns of expression of both wg and en are linked to life span. These studies suggest that the expression of wg and en in the adult antenna is controlled by age-dependent mechanisms.
CCL2 Accelerates Microglia-Mediated Aβ Oligomer Formation and Progression of Neurocognitive Dysfunction

Background: The linkages between neuroinflammation and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis are well established. What is not, however, is how specific immune pathways and proteins affect the disease. To this end, we previously demonstrated that transgenic over-expression of CCL2 enhanced microgliosis and induced diffuse amyloid plaque deposition in Tg2576 mice. This rodent model of AD expresses a Swedish b-amyloid (Ab) precursor protein mutant. Methodology/Principal Findings: We now report that CCL2 transgene expression accelerates deficits in spatial and working memory and hippocampal synaptic transmission in b-amyloid precursor protein (APP) mice as early as 2–3 months of age. This is followed by increased numbers of microglia that are seen surrounding Ab oligomers. CCL2 does not suppress Ab degradation. Rather, CCL2 and tumor necrosis factor-a directly facilitated Ab uptake, intracellular Ab oligomerization, and protein secretion. Conclusions/Significance: We posit that CCL2 facilitates Ab oligomer formation in microglia and propose that such events accelerate memory dysfunction by affecting Ab seeding in the brain.
Experimental and computational evaluation of embolic protection

Carotid artery stenting (CAS), an endovascular treatment for severe carotid artery occlusive disease, is increasingly considered a complimentary procedure to carotid endarterectomy. One reason for the acceptance of CAS as a viable treatment alternative is cerebral protection devices (CPDs), which can reduce the embolic load in the cerebral vasculature. One particular type of CPD, distal protection filters (DPFs), are a popular choice due to their ability to allow distal perfusion peri-procedurally while filtering and removing plaque emboli from the body. This investigation studied one FDA-approved DPF, RX Accunet, using both in vitro and computational methods.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
The moderating role of attitude strength in selective exposure to information

Individuals prefer to receive information that is consistent with their attitudes. Three experiments examined whether attitude strength moderates this selective exposure effect. Experiments 1A and 1B found that participants preferred attitudinally consistent information but that this effect was more pronounced to the extent that the attitude was strongly held. Experiment 2 replicated these findings and ruled out an alternative interpretation that a general tendency to hold strong attitudes rather than issue-specific attitude strength moderates selective exposure. Discussion concerns the implications of these findings and the possibility that other variables moderate the selective exposure effect.
Observation of anomalous stimulated scattering of sound waves via ultra-slow light

We have experimentally demonstrated anomalous stimulated scattering of sound waves with optical waves of the same direction in a cell of Rb vapor. The optical wave is propagating under the conditions for ultra-slow group velocity. The phase-matching condition for the interaction of the waves is achieved when the group velocity of the probe field to approximately the speed of the sound wave.
Stimulation of inositol phosphate formation in cultured human retinal pigment epithelium.

Several hormones, neurotransmitters, and neuropeptides were screened for the ability to stimulate inositol phosphate formation in cultured human retinal epithelial (RPE) cells. Carbachol, vasopressin and thrombin were found to be effective. Treatment of RPE cells with all three agents produced increases in inositol monophosphate, inositol bisphosphate and inositol trisphosphate in the presence of 10 mM LiCl. Carbachol stimulated a 4-fold increase in the total of inositol phosphates at 1 mM. Studies with cholinergic antagonists showed a rank order of 4 DAMP > QNX > pirenzipene > methoctramine, suggesting the presence of M3 muscarinic receptors. Vasopressin gave a 2.5-fold stimulation at 10 μM. Agonists of vasopressin were also tested and gave differential responses. Studies using a V1 agonist (PIOVP) and a V2 agonist (DAVP) showed DAVP matching the level of stimulation elicited by vasopressin whereas treatment with PIOVP only reached 50% of the vasopressin response. These data suggested the presence of V2 receptors in the RPE cells. Several proteases were tested for their ability to stimulate RPE inositol phosphates. Thrombin caused a 7-fold increase in inositol phosphate formation at 1 U/ml, whereas trypsin and plasmin elicited smaller responses ( ~ 2-fold). The thrombin effect was blocked by the thrombin-specific inhibitor, hirudin, but not by other protease inhibitors. Several mediators of inflammation such as bradykinin, histamine and serotonin were also tested, and they were ineffective in stimulating inositol phosphate turnover in the RPE cells.
Measurement of voids in composites by X-ray Computed Tomography

Abstract Manufacturing defects often lead to significant degradation of structural behavior in composite parts. Recent advances in X-ray Computed Micro-Tomography were shown to improve non-destructive assessment of defects in composites. Current methods of porosity/void detection by X-ray Computed Tomography use qualitative techniques prone to large errors in describing the void geometry and total volume of voids. This work proposes a new method of quantifying porosity/void dimensions in composites and discusses methods to minimize errors in void detection. Challenges in using X-ray Computed Micro-Tomography for accurate void detection and measurement are considered. The methodology is validated on a composite specimen with drilled micro-holes; and applied to a unidirectional Carbon/Epoxy tape composite, and Carbon/Epoxy fabric specimens with porosity defects.
Optical properties of ion-implanted GaAs: The observation of finite-size effects in GaAs microcrystals.

We have carried out reflectivity measurements, for photon energies from 2.0 to 5.6 eV in the electronic interband regime, for a series of unannealed ion-implanted GaAs samples which had been exposed to 45-keV ${\mathrm{Be}}^{+}$ ions at various fluences up to 5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{14}$ ions/${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$. The microstructure of the near-surface implantation-induced damage layer in these samples is known (from previous Raman work) to consist of a fine-grain mixture of amorphous GaAs and GaAs microcrystals, with the characteristic microcrystal size L of the microcrystalline component decreasing with increasing fluence (L=55 A\r{} at 5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{14}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}2}$). The optical dielectric function of each sample's damage layer has been derived from the observed reflectivity spectrum by Lorentz-oscillator analysis. Then, by inverting the effective-medium approximation, we have extracted the dielectric function of the microcrystalline component (\ensuremath{\mu}-GaAs) within the damage layer.
Treatment of unknown primary melanoma.

Sixty-four patients with unknown primary melanoma were identified among 1045 new patients with melanoma (6%) seen during an 11-year period. Their mean age was 44.5 years (median age, 42.7 years). Of these, 39 (59%) were men, and 25 (38%) were women. In 34, only one site was involved. Common single sites were the axilla (29%), groin (24%), and neck (32%). Most of the melanomas (88%) were melanotic. Patients with localized melanoma surgically treated (n = 34) had a median survival of 53 months, and a 5-year survival rate of 45%. The respective rates for disseminated melanoma were 7 months and 10% (P = 0.00001). Localized, unknown primary melanoma should be treated with radical excision because a substantial proportion of patients so treated survive 5 years. Cancer 68:2579–2581, 1991.
A prospective double-blind, placebo-controlled study of thalidomide sensory symptoms in an elderly population with age-related macular degeneration

We aimed to determine the incidence of sensory symptoms (SS) that complicate thalidomide treatment of patients with age-related macular degeneration. In a double-blind prospective study, 38 patients were randomized to receive either thalidomide (100 mg twice per day) or placebo for 1 year. They were then followed for another year off drug. The SS (numbness, tingling, pins and needles) occurred in nine patients who took thalidomide (9/18; 50%) and in four who took placebo (4/20; 20%). Symptom severity was correlated with the time of onset, but not with cumulative dose. Five patients partially improved when the thalidomide was withdrawn, and three patients developed tremor with the neuropathy. The SS occurred shortly after thalidomide was introduced and we concluded that older patients with macular degeneration should be carefully screened for risk factors of peripheral neuropathy before thalidomide is used in their treatment.
Is the new definition of bronchopulmonary dysplasia more useful

To determine the incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in low birth weight (LBW) infants 30% at 36 weeks PMA and/or positive pressure at 36 weeks PMA. Further, BPD-associated comorbidities and short-term outcome data during hospitalization were compared among the groups, defined by severity of BPD. Among LBW infants <1251 g, the incidences of BPD at 28 days and 36 weeks PMA were 21.1 and 7.4% respectively. Using the newly defined criteria, the incidences of mild, moderate and severe BPD were 13.5, 4.8 and 2.6%, respectively. In total, 64.6% of these infants had mild BPD and 70.8% weighed <751 g at birth. Associated comorbidities correlated significantly with grades of underlying pulmonary disease. Also, significantly longer hospital stay, discharge at a higher PMA and lower growth velocity was observed with increasing grades of BPD. The new system for grading the severity of BPD offers a better description of underlying pulmonary disease and correlates with the infant's maturity, growth and overall severity of illness. Whether it will have a role in predicting long-term outcome remains to be determined.
Transplacental arsenic carcinogenesis in mice

Our work has focused on the carcinogenic effects of in utero arsenic exposure in mice. Our data show that a short period of maternal exposure to inorganic arsenic in the drinking water is an effective, multi-tissue carcinogen in the adult offspring. These studies have been reproduced in three temporally separate studies using two different mouse strains. In these studies pregnant mice were treated with drinking water containing sodium arsenite at up to 85 ppm arsenic from days 8 to 18 of gestation, and the offspring were observed for up to 2 years. The doses used in all these studies were well tolerated by both the dam and offspring. In C3H mice, two separate studies show male offspring exposed to arsenic in utero developed liver carcinoma and adrenal cortical adenoma in a dose-related fashion during adulthood. Prenatally exposed female C3H offspring show dose-related increases in ovarian tumors and lung carcinoma and in proliferative lesions (tumors plus preneoplastic hyperplasia) of the uterus and oviduct. In addition, prenatal arsenic plus postnatal exposure to the tumor promoter, 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13-acetate (TPA) in C3H mice produces excess lung tumors in both sexes and liver tumors in females. Male CD1 mice treated with arsenic in utero develop tumors of the liver and adrenal and renal hyperplasia while females develop tumors of urogenital system, ovary, uterus and adrenal and hyperplasia of the oviduct. Additional postnatal treatment with diethylstilbestrol or tamoxifen after prenatal arsenic in CD1 mice induces urinary bladder transitional cell proliferative lesions, including carcinoma and papilloma, and enhances the carcinogenic response in the liver of both sexes. Overall this model has provided convincing evidence that arsenic is a transplacental carcinogen in mice with the ability to target tissues of potential human relevance, such as the urinary bladder, lung and liver. Transplacental carcinogenesis clearly occurs with other agents in humans and investigating a potential transplacental component of the human carcinogenic response to arsenic should be a research priority.
An American Seafarer in the Age of Sail: The Erotic Diaries of Philip C. Van Buskirk, 1851-1870

Philip C. Van Buskirk enlisted in the US Marines in 1846 at the age of 12, and from 1851 he recorded his experiences and thoughts in a diary. The author of this book draws on the diaries of Van Buskirk to paint a picture of life in 19th-century America.
Proper compromises: The management control dilemma in public accounting and its impact on auditor behavior☆

Abstract Public accounting firms face an inherent dilemma, wherein conflicting cost and quality goals are create a setting where social ambivalence thrives. This paper explores this dilemma, using an interpretative framework and data collected through interviews. The results suggest that, rather than directly addressing this dilemma, audit firms promote an attitude of compromise within individual audit staff members. This compromise, though, is never openly discussed, hence in Argyris' words ( Accounting, Organizations and Society (1977) pp. 113–123), a double bind exists within the control system: the undiscussable remains undiscussable. Blending auditor comments with related research, it is suggested that the social ambivalence, through undiscussability, is translated into ethical ambivalence (Jansen & von Glinow, Academy of Management Review (1985) pp. 814–822), resulting in individualized reconciliations of the cost/quality dilemma. The discussion ends with implications for research and practice.
Structuring and characterization of a novel highly microporous PEI/BMI semi-interpenetrating polymer network

Abstract Syntheses of semi-interpenetrating polymer networks (semi-IPNs) with polyetherimide/bismaleimide (PEI/BMI) chromophore composites showing molecular sieve characteristics are reported. A tunable and compatible chemical structure with fine morphology was obtained through in situ controlled sol–gel polymerization, crosslinking, chemical modification and membrane fabrication. The novel semi-IPN synthesized and assembled using ethanol as polar protic modifier and pore former, had superior structure and morphology for making gas separation membranes. These semi-IPN membranes gave 15 times higher gas flux than those membranes prepared from pure PEI without significant decrease in gas selectivity. The chemical structures of these novel semi-IPNs were elucidated by FTIR, XPS and SEM. It appears that in situ simultaneous ethoxylation, anionic polymerization of BMI and imide modifications were responsible for creating the new chemical structure and molecular morphology that was different from traditional BMI resins. In addition, these chemical processes give superior structures using green chemistry techniques such as ambient temperature reaction and polymerization without initiators.
Role of variability in determining the vertical wind speeds and structure

[1] The University of Michigan's Global Ionosphere Thermosphere Model (GITM) is used to study the temporal and spatial variability of high-latitude vertical winds during the December solstice. Underlying mechanisms controlling the high-latitude distribution and the magnitude of vertical winds in the thermosphere are investigated in a suite of systematic model simulations. First, in a series of six model simulations GITM longitude × latitude resolution is gradually increased from 5° × 5° to 2.5° × 0.3125°, imposing constant moderate solar and low magnetospheric activity in all simulations. Analysis of the high-latitude mean parameters shows that polar distributions of vertical winds and Joule heating demonstrate localized enhancements at high spatial resolution that are not well captured at coarse grid resolution. Second, in simulations with fixed spatial resolution of 2.5° × 2.5°, the impact of temporally variable magnetospheric conditions on the morphology of the high-latitude vertical winds has been investigated. For this, hemispheric power and the cross polar cap potential values are modified in a series of systematic simulations. The magnitude and temporal variations of ion flows significantly impact the high-latitude Joule heating, which in turn dramatically effects the vertical wind structure. It is demonstrated that variability in the vertical winds are driven by variability in the ion flows and that sudden step-like changes in ion flows can cause the largest enhancements in the vertical winds, in particular, via nonhydrostatic effects. The vertical wind variability is seen to be the largest in the summer Southern Hemisphere with much larger vertical wind magnitudes.
Comprehensive reform of the new drug regulatory process.

A proposal for a new agency with a new set of mandates to oversee the development of valuable new drugs and the protection of public welfare
Panic disorder in children and adolescents

Panic disorder (PD) in children and adolescents is a disabling and chronic condition, which is accompanied by psychosocial and academic difficulties both during adolescence and into adulthood. In this article, the prevalence, clinical characteristics, risk factors, comorbid states, differential diagnosis, and treatment of PD are reviewed. Although PD was thought to be rare in children and adolescents, the prevalence of PD in community samples ranges between 0.5% and 5.0, and in pediatric psychiatric clinics from 0.2% to 10%. Panic attacks are reported to be equally prevalent in males and females. Clinical studies have shown that the majority of the PD pediatric patients receiving consultation in clinics are older adolescents, Caucasian, female, and middle class. Up to 90% of children and adolescents with PD have other anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder/overanxious disorder, separation anxiety disorder, social phobia or agoraphobia), or mood disorders (major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder). PD patients can be misdiagnosed or having neurologic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, or gastrointestinal illness. Psychoeducation and psychosocial treatments are recommended, and it appears that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a safe and promising treatment for children and adolescents with PD. The clinical characteristics, long-term course, and treatment of PD in children and adolescents needs to be further assessed by well-designed studies.