cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of elevated lead and cadmium burdens on renal function and calcium metabolism.

To assess the pathophysiologic significance of increased body burdens of lead and cadmium, detailed renal function studies and evaluation of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D metabolism were carried out in 38 industrial workers exposed to lead and cadmium for 11 to 37 yr. Body burden of lead, as assessed by x-ray fluorescence measurement of tibia lead content, was elevated in 58% of the men and, when assessed by excretion of lead after Ca-EDTA infusion, was elevated in 36%. Liver or kidney cadmium burden, as assessed by neutron activation analysis, was elevated in 31%. Creatinine clearance was normal in all workers. One worker was hyperuricemic and two were proteinuric; three had increased beta 2 microglobulin excretion and one had diminished urinary acidifying ability. Maximal urinary concentrating ability was abnormal in a significant fraction, i.e., 52% of the men. Individuals with a high lead burden had a slight decrease in mean serum phosphorus but no accompanying phosphaturia. There was no abnormality of serum calcium. Twenty-two percent of subjects were hypercalciuric and two had low vitamin D levels, but these abnormalities bore no relation to heavy metal burden. In this carefully characterized group of men with chronic lead and calcium exposure, definite, if subclinical, effects on renal function and serum phosphorus but not calcium or vitamin D metabolism were demonstrable.
Electron Transfer Rates from Vibrational Quantum States

Electron transfer involves changes in molecular geometry that are important for controlling rates. In this work we report the first clear effects of vibrational quantum state on solution phase electron transfer rates. The spontaneous electron transfer rates for the recovery of an ion pair [Co(Cp)2+/V(CO)6-] are studied with picosecond infrared spectroscopy following optical excitation into its charge transfer band. The rates increase about 2-fold for each additional vibrational quantum in the CO stretching mode. These results allow new tests of electron transfer theory.
MRG15 Activates the B-myb Promoter through Formation of a Nuclear Complex with the Retinoblastoma Protein and the Novel Protein PAM14

The MORF4-Related Gene on chromosome 15 (MRG15) is a member of a novel family of genes originally identified in studies to reveal cell senescence-inducing factors. MRG15 contains several predicted protein motifs, including a nuclear localization signal, a helix-loop-helix region, a leucine zipper, and a chromodomain. These motifs are commonly associated with transcription factors, suggesting that MRG15 may likewise function as a transcriptional regulator. To examine the potential function(s) of MRG15, we sought to identify cellular factors associated with this MRG family member. In this regard, we have found that both the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor (Rb) and a novel nuclear protein PAM14 (Protein Associated with MRG, 14 kDa) specifically associate with MRG15. We have further demonstrated that these interactions require the helix-loop-helix and leucine zipper domains of MRG15. Interestingly we have found all three proteins present in a multiprotein complex, suggesting that at least some of their functions may be interdependent. Although the functions of PAM14 have yet to be elucidated, Rb has several well characterized activities, including repression of E2F-activated promoters such as that of B-myb. Significantly we have demonstrated that MRG15 blocks the Rb-induced repression of this promoter, leading to B-myb promoter activation. Collectively these results suggest that MRG15 regulates transcription through interactions with a cellular protein complex containing Rb and PAM14.
Albutropin: a growth hormone–albumin fusion with improved pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in rats and monkeys

Growth hormone (GH) replacement therapy is used to treat GH deficiency. Treatment requires daily administration because of the short plasma t(1/2) of GH. Albutropin, human GH fused at its N-terminus with human serum albumin, should be cleared from the circulation more slowly than GH. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies of albutropin were conducted in rats and monkeys. After subcutaneous (s.c.) dosing in rats, a twofold decrease in clearance and a fourfold increase in plasma half-life were seen with albutropin compared to GH. In monkeys, s.c. administered albutropin (0.3 mg/kg) had a sixfold longer terminal half-life and an eightfold slower clearance than GH (0.3 mg/kg). A single subcutaneous administration of albutropin (0.3, 1.5 and 4 mg/kg) increased plasma insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels for up to 7 days. Seven consecutive daily s.c. injections of GH at 0.3 mg/kg resulted in an increase in IGF-1 equivalent to that induced by a single administration of albutropin at 4 mg/kg. Albutropin (1-20 microg/kg) dosed daily, every other day or every 4 days significantly increased cumulative body weight gain and tibial epiphyseal growth plate width in hypophysectomized rats compared to equimolar doses of GH. These results suggest that albutropin could be given less frequently than GH and achieve therapeutic effects in patients.
Comparison of Different Methods for Fault Ride through Ability of Fixed-Speed Wind Generation Systems

In recent years, with the increasing of wind farm's capacity, requirements of the ability of fault ride through for wind farm are getting more and more stringent. The article analyzes the methods improving the low voltage ride through capability of the constant speed constant frequency wind power generation system. Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) and Series Dynamic Breaking Resistor (SDBR) have recently been reported as stabilization methods for fixed-speed wind generator systems. Simulation results demonstrate that the STATCOM is a cost-effective solution for transient stability enhancement and minimization of voltage fluctuations, while the BR is the simplest in structure and a cost-effective solution for transient stability enhancement. Then a method is prompted, which Combines STATCOM and SDBR to promote the fault ride-through ability of constant speed constant frequency wind power system. By this way, the system validity and stability can be improved while costs can be cut down.
Spatial distribution of phytoplankton species in chlorophyll maximum layers off southern California 1

The phytoplankton species assemblages of the chlorophyll maximum layer and the surface layer were compared in March 1976 at several stations off southern California. The assemblages in the two layers were quite different in the southern inshore part of the study area but were similar offshore and in Santa Monica Bay to the north. In both layers the assemblages changed more abruptly offshore than alongshore and gave the impression of elongate bands of phytoplankton oriented parallel to shore. Principal component analysis resolved two axes which accounted for the preponderance of the variability of species abundances. Component I consisted of several dinoflagellate and one coccolithophorid species, component II of several diatom species and the pigmented ciliate Mesodinium rubrum.
Approximate Dynamical Symmetry in Lattice Quantum Chromodynamics

We discuss the phenomenological implications of an approximate SU(6)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}SU(6)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}U(1) symmetry of hadron physics which remains after dynamical symmetry breaking in the strong-coupling lattice gauge theory. This symmetry is similar to but differs in an essential fashion from previous versions of SU(6) \ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{} SU(6) \ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{} or $\mathrm{SU}{(6)}_{W}$. The difference resolves some of the problems of the older schemes---for example, although we obtain the "good" result $\frac{{\ensuremath{\mu}}_{p}}{{\ensuremath{\mu}}_{n}}=\ensuremath{-}\frac{3}{2}$, we avoid the "bad" result $\frac{{g}_{A}}{{g}_{V}}=\ensuremath{-}\frac{5}{3}$. We find that mesons are better approximated as irreducible representations of an $\mathrm{SU}{(6)}_{W}$ than static SU(6). Vector mesons are pseudo-Goldstone bosons in our scheme, which explains why the sum rules for their masses should be written in terms of mass squared, like those of the pseudoscalars.
Enhancer–Promoter Communication at the yellow Gene of Drosophila melanogaster : Diverse Promoters Participate in and Regulate trans Interactions

The many reports of trans interactions between homologous as well as nonhomologous loci in a wide variety of organisms argue that such interactions play an important role in gene regulation. The yellow locus of Drosophila is especially useful for investigating the mechanisms of trans interactions due to its ability to support transvection and the relative ease with which it can be altered by targeted gene replacement. In this study, we exploit these aspects of yellow to further our understanding of cis as well as trans forms of enhancer–promoter communication. Through the analysis of yellow alleles whose promoters have been replaced with wild-type or altered promoters from other genes, we show that mutation of single core promoter elements of two of the three heterologous promoters tested can influence whether yellow enhancers act in cis or in trans. This finding parallels observations of the yellow promoter, suggesting that the manner in which trans interactions are controlled by core promoter elements describes a general mechanism. We further demonstrate that heterologous promoters themselves can be activated in trans as well as participate in pairing-mediated insulator bypass. These results highlight the potential of diverse promoters to partake in many forms of trans interactions.
Assessing student outcomes in a pedagogically reformed engineering service course

Michigan State University (MSU) received an educational research grant from the GE Fund in 1997 for the purpose of seeking ways to reform the early undergraduate engineering learning experience. This educational research project - which is now in its seventh year - has investigated strategies for augmenting introductory core courses with innovative instructional approaches, including cross-disciplinary experiences in teamwork, design, and the use of advanced teaching technologies. Project goals include: improving the quality of the undergraduate student learning experience, encouraging faculty use of innovative instructional techniques, and institutionalizing these reforms. This paper presents a description of one of the course's evolution during the project, methods used to evaluate the course, and the effect of instructional innovations on student learning outcomes.
Coil Design and Temperature Calculations

Magnetic actuators and sensors are often components of large systems, such as automobiles. The actuators and sensors must perform reliably in the system environment and interface properly with the system. To interface properly with system power supplies, the coils of the magnetic components must be properly designed. As part of the coil design, the temperatures developed by the coils and the components must be predicted. This chapter discusses the coil design and temperature calculations for magnetic actuators and sensors. The concepts discussed in the chapter are wire size determination for direct current (DC) currents, coil time constant and impedance, skin effects and proximity effects for alternating current (AC) currents, and finite-element computation of temperatures.
Transitioning survivors of central nervous system tumors: challenges for patients, families, and health care providers.

Survivors of central nervous system tumors (SCNST) are a growing group of cancer survivors who require risk-based, long-term health care due to the chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation they have received.Although treatment strategies are being developed to reduce morbidity and mortality, ultimately this subgroup of pediatric cancer survivors often faces moderate to severe late effects of their treatment.As a result, they will need lifelong health care that includes risk-based health care due to cancer treatment exposures as well as primary adult health care, including primary and secondary preventative care. The best way to accomplish lifelong health care for SCNST as they enter adulthood is not clearly defined. In this article, the authors plan to (1) present an overview of the complexities of health care problems that make transition challenging for SCNST; (2) review the evolving transition literature; (3) explore the barriers to successful transition; (4) discuss methods to facilitate transition; (5) d...
Nebular mixing constrained by the Stardust samples

Using X-ray microprobe analysis of samples from comet Wild 2 returned by the Stardust mission, we determine that the crystalline Fe-bearing silicate fraction in this Jupiter-family comet is greater than 0.5. Assuming this mixture is a composite of crystalline inner solar system material and amorphous cold molecular cloud material, we deduce that more than half of Wild 2 has been processed in the inner solar system. Several models exist that explain the presence of crystalline materials in comets. We explore some of these models in light of our results.
On the “Lamellar” Morphology of Poly(p-Phenylene Terephthalamide) and Poly(p-Phenylene Benzobisthiazole)

Row-nucleated structures in PPTA and PBZT thin films are compared and their dependence upon quench rate and molecular weight illustrated. It is proposed that the lamellar appearance of the morphology is due to a coherent periodic twisting of fibrillar ribbons. The role of crystallosolvate phases is discussed.
Effect of insulin-metformin combination on hepatic steatosis in patients with type 2 diabetes

Abstract Objective Hepatic steatosis occurs in up to 78% of patients with type 2 diabetes. Studies evaluating the effect of metformin on hepatic steatosis are conflicting. Insulin is believed to be detrimental due to its lipogenic effect. Since insulin–metformin combination is commonly used for the treatment of diabetes, it is important to assess the effect of this combined therapy on hepatic steatosis. We evaluated the change in hepatic steatosis following the initiation of insulin and metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods Newly diagnosed treatment-naive patients with type 2 diabetes had their hepatic triglyceride (TG) content measured by magnetic resonance spectroscopy at baseline and after 3 months of treatment with BiAsp 30 insulin, in combination with metformin. Insulin was administered twice daily and titrated to achieve normal capillary blood glucose levels. Metformin was titrated during the first month from 500 mg daily to 1000 mg bid. Results The average hepatic TG content in 19 enrolled subjects was 11.83±7.61% (range, 0.93–23.16%) and correlated with body mass index ( r =.567). Three months of treatment reduced hepatic steatosis by 45%, with 75% of the study subjects achieving a normal level. The change in hepatic TG content was partially explained by changes in HbA1c ( P =.006) and cholesterol ( P =.003) levels. Conclusions The combined treatment with insulin and metformin significantly reduced hepatic steatosis in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes.
Guiding people to information: providing an interface to a digital library using reference as a basis for indexing

We describe Rosetta, a digital library system for scientific literature. Rosetta makes it easy for people to find the information for which they are looking even when using short, imprecise queries. Rosetta indexes research articles based on the way they have been described when cited in other documents. The concise descriptions that occur in citations are similar to the short queries people typically form when searching; therefore, citations make a better basis for indexing than do the words used within a research article itself. Using this indexing technique we are able to provide a user interface that presents users with an automatically generated directory of the information space surrounding a query. Our objective with this interface is to present people with the information for which they have asked as well as the information for which they may have intended to ask.
A closer look at the problem of vascular reactivity of isolated aortic strips.

Abstract The responsiveness of isolated strips of rat aorta to norepinephrine was measured, a comparison being made between strips from rats with chronic (three to four month) renal hypertension and from rats with normal blood pressure. It was found that the strips from the hypertensive rats were more responsive than those from the normal rats. The maximum tension developed upon exposure to 10 −7 molar norepinephrine in a bath of Krebs Ringer solution was 1,227 mg. and 852 mg. (average of the hypertensive and normotensive group respectively). It was also shown that the smooth muscle of the aortic strips exhibits a length-tension relationship with a definite optimum initial length and corresponding initial tension. It is necessary to set up a sufficient initial tension prior to adding the norepinephrine in order to reveal the true maximal responsiveness of the aortic strip. We believe that previous investigations comparing aortic strips from hypertensive and normotensive animals failed to reveal a greater responsiveness of the hypertensive because this necessary prerequisite was overlooked. The results reported here support the hypothesis that vascular hyperreactivity is an important and possibly a causal factor in hypertension.
Correction of hammer toe with an extended release of the metatarsophalangeal joint

Between March 1995 and January 2000 we reviewed retrospectively 84 patients with hammer-toe deformity (99 feet; 179 toes) who had undergone metatarsophalangeal soft-tissue release and proximal interphalangeal arthroplasty. The median follow-up was 28 months. Patients were assessed by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Scores (AOFAS) and reviewed by independent assessors. The median AOFAS score was 83, with 87% of patients having a score of more than 60 points; 83% were satisfied and 17% were dissatisfied with the procedure. Pain at the metatarsophalangeal joint was the commonest cause of dissatisfaction, with 14% having moderate or severe pain. Only 2.5% had instability and 9% had formation of callus. There was no statistical difference for the age and gender of the patients, the number of toes operated on, associated surgery for hallux valgus or length of follow-up. Our study was based on an anatomical model and shows good results with no recurrence of deformity.
Diabetes and cancer: placing the association in perspective.

Purpose of reviewThe association of diabetes and cancer has received increased attention as data have emerged to indicate that the type of diabetes treatment may influence the risk of cancer, and that the risk of cancer among diabetic individuals can be reduced by intervention. The association of di
Synthesis and Properties of Magnetorheological (MR) Fluids for Active Vibration Control

Magnetorheological (MR) fluids represent an exciting class ofsmart materials for use in active vibration control and other applications. This paper discusses some of the fundamental materials science concepts that define the scientific basis for designing MR fluids. Preliminary experimental data and observations concerning the synthesis as well as the rheological behavior of MR fluids based on carbonyl iron and iron oxide particulates are presented and discussed.
Geometric Analysis of Population Rhythms in Synaptically Coupled Neuronal Networks

We develop geometric dynamical systems methods to determine how various components contribute to a neuronal network's emergent population behaviors. The results clarify the multiple roles inhibition can play in producing different rhythms. Which rhythms arise depends on how inhibition interacts with intrinsic properties of the neurons; the nature of these interactions depends on the underlying architecture of the network. Our analysis demonstrates that fast inhibitory coupling may lead to synchronized rhythms if either the cells within the network or the architecture of the network is sufficiently complicated. This cannot occur in mutually coupled networks with basic cells; the geometric approach helps explain how additional network complexity allows for synchronized rhythms in the presence of fast inhibitory coupling. The networks and issues considered are motivated by recent models for thalamic oscillations. The analysis helps clarify the roles of various biophysical features, such as fast and slow inhibition, cortical inputs, and ionic conductances, in producing network behavior associated with the spindle sleep rhythm and with paroxysmal discharge rhythms. Transitions between these rhythms are also discussed.
Corporate Image and Public Health: An Analysis of the Philip Morris, Kraft, and Nestlé Websites

Companies need to maintain a good reputation to do business; however, companies in the infant formula, tobacco, and processed food industries have been identified as promoting disease. Such companies use their websites as a means of promulgating a positive public image, thereby potentially reducing the effectiveness of public health campaigns against the problems they perpetuate. The author examined documents from the websites of Philip Morris, Kraft, and Nestle for issue framing and analyzed them using Benoit's typology of corporate image repair strategies. All three companies defined the problems they were addressing strategically, minimizing their own responsibility and the consequences of their actions. They proposed solutions that were actions to be taken by others. They also associated themselves with public health organizations. Health advocates should recognize industry attempts to use relationships with health organizations as strategic image repair and reject industry efforts to position themselves as stakeholders in public health problems. Denormalizing industries that are disease vectors, not just their products, may be critical in realizing positive change.
Some Sociological Ideas for Conceptual Change Research.

This review takes a critical position with regards to Treagust and Duit’s article, Conceptual Change: A discussion of theoretical methodological and practical challenges for science education. It is proposed that conceptual change research in science education might benefit from borrowing concepts currently being developed in the sociology of emotions. It is further suggested that the study of social interaction within evolving emotional cultures is the most promising avenue for developing and extending theories about conceptual change.
Toleration and Calumny: Bayle, Locke, Montesquie and Voltaire on Religious Hate Speech

There is a considerable literature on the issue of hate speech. And there is a considerable literature on religious toleration (both contemporary and historic). But the two have not been brought into relation with one another. In this paper, I consider how the argument for religious toleration extends beyond a requirement of non-persection and non-establishment. I consider its application to the question of religious vituperation. The focus of the paper is on 17th and 18th century theories. Locke, Bayle and other Enlightenment thinkers imagined a tolerant society as a society free of hate speech: the kind of religious peace that they envisaged was a matter of civility not just non-persecution. The paper also considers the costs of placing limits (legal or social limits) on religious hate-speech: does this interfere with the forceful expression of religious antipathy which (for some people) the acceptance of their creed requires?
East meets west: making the best of two worlds

In the past two decades, large numbers of Chinese engineering students have come to the US to pursue graduate studies. These Chinese students brought their drastically different learning styles to America's engineering classrooms and laboratories. Today, Chinese engineers play an important role in American high tech industry. Their success demonstrates that it is possible for students of different cultural background and learning style to excel in America's engineering education system. The bigger question is: can we improve engineering education in both the US and China by learning from each other's success and failure? The author presents his personal observations of the differences between the traditional Chinese education system and the modern American way of teaching and learning and provides his opinions on how to improve engineering education in both countries.
Psychosomatic Issues in Assessment

The last decade and a half has witnessed the emergence of the field of clinical gerontology and a rapidly growing interest in the physical and mental health problems of the aged. In a few short years, lay and professional groups have been organized, political interest has become focused, governmental task forces have been commissioned, professional journals have appeared, books have been written, subspecialties in several fields of medicine and social science have been developed—all centering around a basic concern with the nature and scope of health care for the elderly.
Inbreeding and Random Drift

In this chapter, we shall study the intimately related processes of inbreeding and random genetic drift. Inbreeding is of great importance in the empirical investigation of genetic mechanisms and in animal and plant breeding. As discussed in Chap. 1, random drift has an essential role in Wright’s (1931, 1977) shifting-balance theory of evolution and a predominant one in the neutral theory of Kimura (1968, 1971) and of King and Jukes (1969).
Metronomic Therapy for HIV-Associated Malignancies

Therapeutic complications following maximum tolerated dose cytotoxic chemotherapy are a reality of current cancer care treatment regimens and protocols. These complications include bone marrow suppression with anemia, bleeding, and neutropenia and without appropriate supportive care, result in unacceptably high morbidity and mortality rates. Over 30 million people worldwide are infected with HIV, and of these, the vast majority live in sub-Saharan Africa. Many patients with AIDS are also malnourished and so are especially vulnerable to the mucositis and weight loss that often accompanies chemotherapy further compounding the inherent risks of myelosuppressive chemotherapy. In addition, HIV infection is thought to cause abnormalities in hematopoiesis, compounding the myelotoxicity of cytotoxic therapy. Thus, myelotoxicity is a major complication following the delivery of cytotoxic therapy at maximum tolerated doses to treat AIDS-associated malignancies in developing countries. Alternative approaches to the management of AIDS-associated malignancies are needed in resource-poor countries. In this chapter, we will describe a new approach for the delivery of cytotoxic drugs – metronomic therapy – that reduces the toxicity associated with the delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs at maximum tolerated doses.
The Effects of Over-Expressing the Yeast Ornithine Decarboxylase Gene upon the Nicotine and Polyamine Levels in Transformed Roots of Nicotiana Rustica

Putrescine is an important precursor of alkaloids such as nicotine in Nicotiana and scopolamine and hyoscyamine in Datura. It acts at the interface between primary and secondary metabolism and its primary role is as an intermediate in the formation of polyamines which have important roles in the growth of animal and microbial as well as plant cells. In animals and microbes the formation of putrescine and polyamines is regulated by effects on the expression of the enzymes ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) and S-adenosyl methionine decarboxylase (SAM dC)1 both at the nucleic acid and protein levels. In plants, the situation is complicated by the occurrence of an alternative route of formation of putrescine from arginine and arginine decarboxylase (ADC) as well as from ornithine and ornithine decarboxylase and the presence of large buffering pools of putrescine and polyamine conjugates. Nevertheless, the role of polyamines in growth-related processes in plants is well established2,3,4. In tissues where putrescine-derived alkaloids are found, there is clearly competition for putrescine as substrate between the polyamine and alkaloid pathways. Feeding low levels of putrescine (1–5mM) can have a stimulatory effect upon the production of nicotine in N. rustica transformed root cultures5. This suggests that increasing the levels of this intermediate, by genetic manipulation techniques, may allow a greater flux down the metabolic pathway leading to nicotine and thus increase the secondary product concentrations of these cultures. We have investigated these interactions by attempting to over-express a yeast ornithine decarboxylase (yODC) gene in transformed roots of Nicotiana rustica to increase internal pools of putrescine and to study its partitioning between polyamines and alkaloids.
Mechanics of bioinspired imaging systems

Abstract Imaging systems in nature have attracted a lot of research interest due to their superior optical and imaging characteristics. Recent advancements in materials science, mechanics, and stretchable electronics have led to successful development of bioinspired cameras that resemble the structures and functions of biological light-sensing organs. In this review, we discuss some recent progresses in mechanics of bioinspired imaging systems, including tunable hemispherical eyeball camera and artificial compound eye camera. The mechanics models and results reviewed in this article can provide efficient tools for design and optimization of such systems, as well as other related optoelectronic systems that combine rigid elements with soft substrates.
Altered Th17/Treg balance and dysregulated IL-1β response influence susceptibility/resistance to experimental autoimmune arthritis:

This study was aimed at gaining an insight into immune mechanisms of differential susceptibility to autoimmunity of individuals sharing the same major histocompatibility complex by studying arthritis-susceptible Lewis (LEW) and arthritis-resistant Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats (both RT.1(l)) using the adjuvant arthritis (AA) model of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Lymph node cells (LNC) and synovium-infiltrating cells (SIC) of LEW and WKY rat subjected to an arthritogenic challenge were tested. The frequency of T helper 17 (Th17) and T regulatory (Treg) cells was determined by flow cytometry, whereas serum and spleen adherent cell (SAC)-derived supernatant were analyzed for specific cytokines and chemokines. We observed that WKY rats are not deficient in generating a Th17 response to the arthritogenic challenge in LNC (periphery); however, the Th17/Treg ratio is markedly reduced in the joint (target organ) of WKY versus LEW rats because of reduced Th17 levels therein in WKY rats. These results suggest differential and selective decrease in Th17 cell migration into the joints of WKY rats. Interestingly, serum levels of chemokines RANTES and MCP-1 were reduced in WKY rats. Furthermore, WKY rats showed reduced serum IL-1β level in vivo but no defect in IL-1β production by SAC in vitro, suggesting an effective in vivo regulation of IL-1β response. We also unraveled the role of interferon-γ (IFNγ), which we have previously reported to be increased in WKY versus LEW rats, in regulation of IL-1β. Thus, reduced Th17/Treg ratio in the target organ (joints) and decreased systemic IL-1β might contribute to the AA-resistance of WKY rats; whereas the converse factors render LEW more vulnerable to AA.
Scheduling with predictable link reliability for wireless networked control

Predictable link reliability is required for wireless networked control, yet co-channel interference remains a major source of uncertainty in wireless link reliability. Integrating the protocol model's locality and the physical model's high fidelity, the physical-ratio-K (PRK) interference model has the potential to enable distributed, predictable control of co-channel interference and thus predictable link reliability. To realize the potential of the PRK model, we design protocol PRKS that addresses the challenge of instantiating the PRK model in the presence of network and environmental uncertainties. Formulating the PRK-model-instantiation problem as a minimum-variance regulation control problem, in particular, PRKS uses a control-theoretic approach to instantiating the PRK model on the fly. Through testbed-based measurement study, we show that, unlike existing scheduling protocols where link reliability is unpredictable and the ratio of links whose reliability meets application requirements can be as low as 0%, PRKS enables predictably high link reliability (e.g., 95%) for all the links in different network and environmental conditions without a priori knowledge of these conditions. Through local, distributed coordination, PRKS also achieves a channel spatial reuse very close to what is enabled by the state-of-the-art centralized scheduler while ensuring the required link reliability. By ensuring the required link reliability in scheduling, PRKS also enables a lower communication delay and a higher network throughput than existing scheduling protocols.
Oncornaviral protein modulation in mouse uterine tissue by estrogen (38467).

SummaryTreatment of ovariectomized NIH Swiss mice with estrogens elevated the level of the murine leukemia virus group specific protein and the activity of an RNA-di-rected DNA polymerase in the uterus. The extent that these markers were raised was dependent on the relative biological potency of the estrogen and on the time interval following treatment. Increases in the levels of both viral marker proteins were evident within 24 hr of treatment and were highest at 48 hr. Subsequently, viral protein levels declined to pretreatment levels.The authors acknowledge the technical assistance of Carl Reed, Carol Lipson, Leon Culler, Sara Myers, and Philip Errico. Antisera used in this study were prepared by Dr. R. Wilsnack, Huntington Research Center, Baltimore, MD.
Hydrogenation of Quinaldine and Benzylic Aldehydes both Separately and Combined in a Tandem Hydrogenation–Reductive Alkylation of Quinaldine by Aldehydes with Iridium Benzoquinoline Catalysts

A series of cyclometalated benzoquinoline complexes of Ir(III) catalyze the hydrogenation of the heterocyclic ring of quinolines under mild conditions. Our best catalyst is active in a significantly wider range of solvents than our previous systems. In the presence of a suitable base, the Ir(III) species is also able to hydrogenate the C═O bonds of aldehydes. When quinolines and aldehydes are present together, the Ir(III) complex catalyzes a tandem reaction in which the quinoline is first hydrogenated to a tetrahydroquinoline that is subsequently reductively alkylated by the aldehyde. The reductive alkylation competes with the hydrogenation of the aldehyde to the alcohol, and therefore good yields of the alkylated tetrahydroquinoline require the presence of excess aldehyde.
Z-Beamlet x-ray backlighting experiments on the Z machine

A kilojoule-class Nd:Glass laser known as Z-Beamlet has been constructed to perform x-ray radiography of high energy density science experiments conducted on the megajoule-class z-pinch Z facility at Sandia National Laboratories. The combination of Z-Beamlet and Z provide a unique platform for studying high energy density science in the laboratory.
Structural Characterization of Membrane Proteins and Peptides by FTIR and ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is widely used in structural characterization of proteins or peptides. While the method does not have the capability of providing the precise, atomic-resolution molecular structure, it is exquisitely sensitive to conformational changes occurring in proteins upon functional transitions or upon intermolecular interactions. Sensitivity of vibrational frequencies to atomic masses has led to development of "isotope-edited" FTIR spectroscopy, where structural effects in two proteins, one unlabeled and the other labeled with a heavier stable isotope, such as (13)C, are resolved simultaneously based on spectral downshift (separation) of the amide I band of the labeled protein. The same isotope effect is used to identify site-specific conformational changes in proteins by site-directed or segmental isotope labeling. Negligible light scattering in the infrared region provides an opportunity to study intermolecular interactions between large protein complexes, interactions of proteins and peptides with lipid vesicles, or protein-nucleic acid interactions without light scattering problems often encountered in ultraviolet spectroscopy. Attenuated total reflection FTIR (ATR-FTIR) is a surface-sensitive version of infrared spectroscopy that has proved useful in studying membrane proteins and lipids, protein-membrane interactions, mechanisms of interfacial enzymes, and molecular architecture of membrane pore or channel forming proteins and peptides. The purpose of this article was to provide a practical guide to analyze protein structure and protein-membrane interactions by FTIR and ATR-FTIR techniques, including procedures of sample preparation, measurements, and data analysis. Basic background information on FTIR spectroscopy, as well as some relatively new developments in structural and functional characterization of proteins and peptides in lipid membranes, are also presented.
Noninvasive testicular screening in childhood leukemia.

AbstractTo evaluate the potential of transscrotal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging as noninvasive screening methods we studied 8 boys with acute lymphocytic leukemia before testicular biopsy. Ultrasonic images of the testes were performed in 4 patients, including 2 with negative and 2 with positive biopsies, and all images were interpreted as normal. Magnetic resonance images of the testes also were interpreted as normal in 4 patients, including 2 with negative and 2 with positive biopsies, and they were technically inadequate in the remaining 4. The results suggest that neither transscrotal ultrasonography nor magnetic resonance imaging as currently applied may substitute reliably for testicular biopsy as a screen for occult testicular leukemia.
Final state interaction andCP invariance in radiative Kπ2 decay

The effect of an I=1, J=1 pion-pion resonance on the matrix element of the decay K→ 2π + γ is studied. It is found that while the matrix element strongly favours low photon frequencies as a result of the final state interaction, the observable effects are much reduced by the phase-space factor. These effects are probably observable only in K20 decay. The usual final-state interaction theorem is found to be invalid in general because of the existence of a « radiative rescattering » channel. The use of partial wave dispersion relations is briefly discussed. Some selection rules for the photon states in K20 decay are derived on the basis ofCP invariance. The branching ratio R(K20→2π + 2e)/R(K20→ 2π + γ) is calculated for various values of the π-π resonance parameters. The correlation of the electron and the pion planes is calculated.
Calcium/Calmodulin Affects Microtubule Stability in Lysed Protoplasts

Microtubules (Mts) are found in four distinct arrays appearing sequentially in a cell-cycle-dependent fashion within the cells of higher plants. Additionally, the cortical Mts of non-cycling cells are spatially altered in a variety of differentiated states. Information regarding the molecular details underlying these Mt-reorientation events in plant cells is scarce. Moreover, it is unclear how cytoskeletal behavior integrates with the myriad of other cellular activities that are altered concomitantly in both differentiating and cycling cells. Data are presented herein to indicate that calcium, in the form of a Ca 2+ /calmodulin complex, can alter the behavior of Mts in lysed carrot protoplasts. Mechanistically, we show that Ca 2+ /calmodulin most likely interacts with Mts via associations with microtubule associated pro- teins (MAPS). These results are discussed with reference to how Ca 2+ may alter the dynamic behavior of Mts during growth and development.
Corrigendum to 'Bmi-1: At the crossroads of physiological and pathological biology' [Genes & Diseases 2 (2015) 225-239].

Change the text to the following: The authors regret that an error was made in citing Reference #57. The correct citation is “Lavial F, Bessonnard S, Ohnishi Y, Tsumura A, Chandrashekran A, Fenwick MA, Tomaz RA, Hosokawa H, Nakayama T, Chambers I, Hiiragi T, Chazaud C, Azuara V. Bmi1 facilitates primitive endoderm formation by stabilizing Gata6 during early mouse development. Genes Dev. 2012 Jul 1;26(13):1445–1458”. In the text on p.229 right column, Line14, the first author's name should be Lavial. The authors would like to apologize for any inconvenience and confusion caused by the error.
Ph-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Philadelphia chromosome-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph-like ALL) is a newly identified high-risk (HR) B-lineage ALL subtype, accounting for ∼15% of children with National Cancer Institute-defined HR B-ALL. It occurs more frequently in adolescents and adults, having been reported in as much as 27% of young adults with ALL between 21 and 39 years of age. It exhibits adverse clinical features, confers a poor prognosis, and harbors a diverse range of genetic alterations that activate cytokine receptor genes and kinase signaling pathways, making it amenable to treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy. Multiple groups are currently conducting clinical trials to prospectively screen patients with Ph-like ALL and incorporate the relevant TKI for those harboring ABL-class gene rearrangements or those with JAK-STAT pathway alterations. The success of combinatorial treatment of TKI with chemotherapy in the setting of Ph-positive ALL suggests that this approach may similarly improve outcomes for patients with Ph-like ALL. Hence, Ph-like ALL illustrates the modern treatment paradigm of precision medicine and presents unique opportunities for harnessing international collaborations to further improve outcomes for patients with ALL.
A Women's Health Legacy of the Obama Administration.

The author reflects on the progress that U.S. President Barack Obama's administration has made with regards to women's health in America as of 2016, and it mentions the nation's Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), health insurance coverage for preventive services for females, and U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved contraceptive methods and counseling. Screening services for human papillomavirus and HIV are examined, along with abortion care and reproductive health.
A Flexible Millimeter-Wave Channel Sounder With Absolute Timing

This paper presents a novel ultrawideband wireless spread spectrum millimeter-wave (mmWave) channel sounder that supports both a wideband sliding correlator mode and a realtime spread spectrum mode, also known as wideband correlation or direct correlation. Both channel sounder modes are capable of absolute propagation delay (time of flight) measurements with up to 1 GHz of radio frequency null-to-null bandwidth, and can measure multipath with a 2-ns time resolution. The sliding correlator configuration facilitates long-distance measurements with angular spread and delay spread for up to 185 dB of maximum measurable path loss. The real-time spread spectrum mode is shown to support short-range, small-scale temporal, and Doppler measurements (minimum snapshot sampling interval of 32.753 μs) with a substantial dynamic fading range of 40 dB for human blockage and dynamic urban scenarios. The channel sounder uses field programmable gate arrays, analog-to-digital converters, digital-to-analog converters, and low-phase-noise rubidium standard references for frequency/time synchronization and absolute time delay measurements. Using propagation theory, several methods are presented here to calibrate and verify the accuracy of the channel sounder, and an improved diffraction model for human blockage, based on the METIS model but now including directional antenna gains, is developed from measurements using the channel sounder. The mmWave channel sounder described here may be used for accurate spatial and temporal raytracing calibration, to identify individual multipath components, to measure antenna patterns, for constructing spatial profiles of mmWave channels, and for developing statistical channel impulse response models in time and space.
Proceedings of the 2009 International Conference on Computer-Aided Design

ICCAD continues to be the premier and most selective conference devoted to technical innovations in design automation. ICCAD's program of technical papers, tutorials, keynotes and Monday night panel highlights the most important current and future research challenges. A day of colocated workshops on hot topics promises non-stop technical excitement. And as always, a large number of side meetings and social events provide plenty of opportunities for networking and meeting colleagues and friends. This year's ICCAD starts on Monday, November 2 and continues through Wednesday, November 4; you will find up-to-date details on the conference website http://www.iccad.com. This year's CANDE workshop will be held immediately before ICCAD on Oct 29, only a short hop away in Monterey. ICCAD's colocated workshops will be on Thursday, November 5. Continuing a practice started last year, ICCAD will integrate its tutorials within the technical program Monday through Wednesday. These tutorials, given by world experts, are an excellent opportunity for updating your knowledge in state-of-the-art and emerging areas. This year we received 438 worldwide submissions and the technical program committee, after careful deliberation, selected 115 excellent papers for presentation. These papers are split into 31 sessions over the three days of the technical program. In addition, the ICCAD program this year includes three special sessions, as well as two designer sessions, all focused on providing additional broad perspectives for our CAD audience.
Quality Improvement and Patient Safety

Modern healthcare relies on quality improvement initiatives to continuously improve patient safety. As technology and research become more advanced, then next generation of physicians must understand how to participate in and interpret quality improvement initiatives to ensure that patients continue receive the most expedient and highest-quality care possible. Residency programs have responded by requiring that quality improvement and patient safety (QI/PS) competencies be integrated within every residency curriculum. Surgical trainees may participate in any number of QI/PS-related activities, including didactic lectures, local and national projects, and morbidity and mortality conferences, among others. This chapter outlines several ways to engage residents in QI/PS and also identifies challenges to resident participation. A number of electronic resources are available for residents and program directors to help facilitate education. While curricular efforts are currently focused primarily on didactics, residents partnered with qualified mentors may participate in local and national initiatives aimed at improved patient care.
Dynamic Equilibrium Modeling of Snow and Inland Glaciers under the Evolving Climate in Wyoming

AbstractMost snow hydrology models do not include the long-term effects of interannual snow storage such as glaciers because glacier dynamics have a longer timescale than river flow and seasonal sn...
Validating a Standardized Approach to the Taylor Aggression Paradigm

The Taylor Aggression Paradigm (TAP) is a frequently used laboratory measure of aggression. However, the flexibility inherent in its implementation and analysis can undermine its validity. To test ...
The apple doesn’t fall far from the parent’s school: intergenerational continuity in school sector enrollment

ABSTRACTThis article investigates whether parents in the United States and Canada send their children to schools that are similar to the schools they attended. Intergenerational continuity in the t...