cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dermatologic Complications Following Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Plastic surgery procedures, including minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, continue to grow in popularity. Although dermatologic complications following plastic surgery procedures are rare, the authors have encountered several of these complications in their practice, including herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and varicella zoster virus (VZV) infections, pyoderma gangrenosum (PG), contact dermatitis, and suture hypersensitivity. These cases prompted a systematic literature review of dermatologic complications following plastic surgery procedures. The authors conducted a systematic review of PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library to identify relevant articles published from 1975 to 2021. Articles were independently reviewed by the authors to determine whether studies met inclusion criteria. The majority of articles that met inclusion criteria represented level V evidence. The most robust evidence in the literature was for PG, for which there were 63 total studies. Pyoderma gangrenosum was most frequently reported following breast surgery (85.1%), while HSV-1 infections were frequently seen following minimally invasive procedures (84.6%). VZV reactivation was reported after a range of interventions, including pedicled flap surgeries and laser treatments. Other complications, such as suture hypersensitivity, were less frequently reported in the literature, usually as isolated case reports. Dermatologic complications represent a rare but serious concern following plastic surgery procedures. While most dermatologic complications resolve with appropriate treatment, sequelae of these conditions can be devastating to the patient’s overall outcome. Plastic surgeons performing procedures at a high risk of these complications should recognize the diagnostic criteria to facilitate appropriate treatment. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and glucocorticoids in COVID-19.

Abstract Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is characterized by a wide spectrum of symptom severity, which is manifested at different phases of infection and demands different levels of care. Viral load, host innate-immune response to SARS-CoV-2, and comorbidities have a direct impact on the clinical outcomes of COVID-19 patients and determine the diverse disease trajectories. The initial SARS-CoV-2 penetrance and replication in the host causes death of infected cells, determining the viral response. SARS-CoV-2 replication in the host triggers the activation of host antiviral immune mechanisms, determining the inflammatory response. While a healthy immune response is essential to eliminate infected cells and prevent spread of the virus, a dysfunctional immune response can result in a cytokine storm and hyperinflammation, contributing to disease progression. Current therapies for COVID-19 target the virus and/or the host immune system and may be complicated in their efficacy by comorbidities. Here we review the evidence for use of two classes of anti-inflammatory drugs, glucocorticoids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for the treatment of COVID-19. We consider the clinical evidence regarding the timing and efficacy of their use, their potential limitations, current recommendations and the prospect of future studies by these and related therapies.
Parallel biocomputing

Background With the advent of high throughput genomics and high-resolution imaging techniques, there is a growing necessity in biology and medicine for parallel computing, and with the low cost of computing, it is now cost-effective for even small labs or individuals to build their own personal computation cluster.
S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR) deficiency accelerates cardiomyocyte differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells.

Introduction Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provide a model of cardiomyocyte (CM) maturation. Nitric oxide signaling promotes CM differentiation and maturation, although the mechanisms remain controversial. Aim The study tested the hypothesis that in the absence of S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR), a denitrosylase regulating protein S-nitrosylation, the resultant increased S-nitrosylation accelerates the differentiation and maturation of iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes (CMs). Methods and results iPSCs derived from mice lacking GSNOR (iPSCGSNOR-/-) matured faster than wildtype iPSCs (iPSCWT) and demonstrated transient increases in expression of murine Snail Family Transcriptional Repressor 1 gene (Snail), murine Snail Family Transcriptional Repressor 2 gene (Slug) and murine Twist Family BHLH Transcription Factor 1 gene (Twist), transcription factors that promote epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and that are regulated by Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 Beta (GSK3β). Murine Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 Beta (Gsk3β) gene exhibited much greater S-nitrosylation, but lower expression in iPSCGSNOR-/-. S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO)-treated iPSCWT and human (h)iPSCs also demonstrated reduced expression of GSK3β. Nkx2.5 expression, a CM marker, was increased in iPSCGSNOR-/- upon directed differentiation toward CMs on Day 4, whereas murine Brachyury (t), Isl1, and GATA Binding Protein (Gata4) mRNA were decreased, compared to iPSCWT, suggesting that GSNOR deficiency promotes CM differentiation beginning immediately following cell adherence to the culture dish-transitioning from mesoderm to cardiac progenitor. Conclusion Together these findings suggest that increased S-nitrosylation of Gsk3β promotes CM differentiation and maturation from iPSCs. Manipulating the post-translational modification of GSK3β may provide an important translational target and offers new insight into understanding of CM differentiation from pluripotent stem cells. One sentence summary Deficiency of GSNOR or addition of GSNO accelerates early differentiation and maturation of iPSC-cardiomyocytes.
Optimized generated power of a solar PV system using an intelligent tracking technique

Partial shading condition (PSC) is common and complicated in all types of PV power plant. Therefore, the power production of solar system would be affected by the mismatch phenomena produced by PSC. Furthermore, when the array is partially shaded, the P–V characteristics become more complex which causes multiple peaks of the P-V curve. So, the simple maximum power point tracking (MPPT) methods such as perturb and observe (P&O) will fail. To address the above issue, this paper proposes a combination of two different approaches, implementing distributed MPPT (DMPPT) and optimized fuzzy/bee algorithm (OFBA). DMPPT can be utilized to maximize solar energy by allowing each module, or group of modules, be managed independently. Also, due to the output power oscillations around the operating point in the P&O method, an OFBA is employed which allowing for the decrease of output power oscillations without the usage of temperature and light sensors. The result shows that utilizing of DMPPT control approach in conjunction with the OFBA boosts the output generated power.
Neurosensory Disturbances as a Result Of Chemical Injury to the Inferior Alveolar Nerve

Summary This article has suggested a simple classification of chemically induced nerve injury based on the known and accepted subjective terminology of sensory deficits within the distribution of the involved nerve. The basis of this suggestion is that it is difficult to classify nerve injuries based on current schemes unless there is associated mechanical injury or axonal destruction. Table 1 lists chemical medicaments used in dentistry that are known to affect subjective sensory function when placed in contact with intact or injured trigeminal nerves. The more neurotoxic substances such as Carnoy's solution, aldehydes, and phenols are tissue fixatives that cause neural degeneration distal to the site of injury. The severity of sensory impairment and the prognosis for recovery is greatly affected by concomitant epineural injury and time length of chemical exposure. Relatively inert substances also may have long-term effects when extruded into the inferior dental canal. These effects are often mediated by chronic inflammation and disruption of intraneural microcirculation. The prognosis for these types of injuries depends more on the volume of substance in contact with the neurovascular bundle than with the toxicity of the chemical. Avoidance of known neurotoxic substances and attention to procedural detail is of utmost importance in limiting chemical insult to the branches of the trigeminal nerve. The judicious use of steroids to decrease inflammatory responses also may be helpful in limiting sensory disruption from endodontic and oral surgical procedures. Perhaps the most critical element in providing the best chance for sensory recovery is early detection and early decompression of the neurovascular bundle.
Heat transfer in the thermal entrance region with turbulent flow between parallel plates at unequal temperatures

For steady one-dimensional flow between parallel plates at unequal temperatures solutions are given for the Nusselt number in the entrance region, as well as for the fully developed flow with unequal temperatures and heat flux.
Creating the library experience

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the elements of a library’s daily operations that contribute to the overall experience visitors to the library hopefully enjoy. Beyond the much discussed element of customer service, there are many other factors that either enhance the experience or detract from it. Design/methodology/approach – This paper used the author’s personal experience as an observer of library organizations from his perspective of a consultant and a workshop presenter. Findings – This paper focuses on the importance of ensuring that every aspect of the library operation functions properly to guarantee pleasant experiences for all visitors. Originality/value – The paper helps the library director, the department manager and the staff librarian to better appreciate the importance of being aware of how the visitor perceives the library experience.
Social Control of Developmental Rate in the African Cichlid, Haplochromis burtoni

Social regulation of developmental rate of the African cichlid fish, Haplochromis bur-toni, was studied experimentally. Broods were raised under three different social conditions: total isolation, with no visual, physical or chemical contact with siblings; physical isolation, with no physical or chemical contact with siblings; and in social groups. Development of behavior and color patterns were observed in fish from 2 to 14 weeks of age. Males were sacrificed at 4-week intervals to measure growth and maturation state. Results showed that developmental rate is influenced by the social environment. Males with no territories (raised in groups) grew and matured more slowly than those in all other conditions. These males were not prevented from maturing but both the rate and phenotypic expression of maturation were inhibited.
A novel nuclear variant of Bmp4

3790 The transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) superfamily is responsible for several growth pathways that promote differentiation and proliferation. There are over 100 members in the TGFβ family. One such protein is bone morphogenetic protein 4 (Bmp4), a growth factor that regulates gene expression. Bmp4 is synthesized as a preproprotein, which is cleaved while in the secretory pathway and dimerizes to form a mature growth factor that functions via the SMAD signaling pathway. Bmp4 induces ectopic bone formation and is also involved in forebrain development, inner ear development, and mesoderm formation. Bmp4 has also been identified as an important factor in several cancers, including melanoma, ovarian cancer, and colon cancer. Interestingly, Juan Madoz-Gurpide et al. (Molecular & Cellular Proteomics, 2006) observed Bmp4 in the nuclei of a minor percentage of cells in colon cancer tissues. In addition, we have recently discovered a nuclear variant of Bmp2 (nBmp2), the TGFβ family member most closely related to Bmp4. These observations led us to hypothesize that a nuclear variant of Bmp4 also exists. To test this hypothesis, we produced a Bmp4/GFP fusion protein expression plasmid and transfected it into rat chondrosarcoma (RCS) cells. The fusion protein was, indeed, detectable in the nucleus. Immunohistochemistry was also performed, which verified the presence of endogenous Bmp4 in the nuclei of RCS cells. Computer analysis of the Bmp4 proprotein sequence predicted several nuclear localization signals (NLS). To test the functionality of the predicted NLS sequences, we fused each one to GFP and transfected the fusion constructs into RCS cells. One predicted signal, a bipartite NLS that overlaps the site of proteolytic cleavage, was found to direct GFP to the nucleus. This result suggests that the nuclear variant of Bmp4 is an uncleaved proprotein, as protein processing would cleave and thus inactivate the bipartite NLS. Preliminary results indicate that the nuclear variant of Bmp4 is translated from an alternative start codon downstream from the signal peptide. Without the N-terminal signal peptide, the protein is translated in the cytoplasm rather than the endoplasmic reticulum and thus avoids protein processing and secretion. Instead, the bipartite NLS directs translocation to the nucleus. Nuclear Bmp4 has so far been observed in rat chondrosarcoma cells and colon cancer tissues, suggesting that this novel nuclear variant may play a role in carcinogenesis.
Long-Term Survival Following Total Sacrectomy with Reconstruction for the Treatment of Primary Osteosarcoma of the Sacrum. A Case Report*

Osteosarcoma of the sacrum occurs in both primary and secondary forms, with the latter including those that develop following radiation therapy and those associated with Paget disease of bone. Osteosarcomas originating in the sacrum are very rare, and most cases in the literature have been grouped with osteosarcomas arising in the vertebral column9-11,13,25,26,32,34,37,40,43,45,50,52. Mortality has been high, which is to be expected in association with any so-called high-grade lesion, as these lesions have a high risk of metastasis and occur in a location that makes adherence to standard oncological principles difficult. Sacral tumors usually have reached an advanced stage and a large size by the time that they are diagnosed, and these conditions make the resection of the tumor technically demanding and the chance of achieving a wide margin less likely. The achievement of an adequate margin often leads to pelvic instability as well as to a loss of neurological function17-20,23. However, over the past few decades, improved techniques with acceptable morbidity have been developed to allow for more extensive sacral resections in the treatment of benign, extracapsular, destructive lesions and low-grade malignant lesions, including giant-cell tumors and chordomas4,7,8,15,19,23-25,27,31,32,34-36,38,41,42,45,46,48,49,51. A multidisciplinary approach including preoperative chemotherapy has increased the survival of patients who have osteosarcoma involving the appendicular skeleton22, which suggests the importance of achieving local control in the treatment of osteosarcomas involving the axial skeleton. This …
Traces of Ancestry: Studies in Honour of Colin Renfrew

Traces of Ancestry: Studies in Honour of Colin Renfrew. Martin Jones, ed. Oakville: David Brown Book Company, 2004. 161 pp.
Prevalence and genotype distribution of HPV infection among women in Ningbo, China

Abstract Objective To evaluate HPV prevalence and genotype distribution among women in Ningbo, China. Methods A cluster-sampling study of women from four randomly selected villages was undertaken between April 1 and June 30, 2012. Married women who were not menstruating and had not had sexual intercourse, used vaginal medications, or performed vaginal douching within the previous 48 hours were enrolled when attending community health centers for family planning appointments. Exfoliated cell specimens were collected for HPV DNA genotyping and cytologic diagnostic tests. Results Among 1373 included women, 185 (13.5%) were found to be HPV positive and 178 (13.0%) had a high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) genotype. Among 56 women with cervical cytologic abnormalities, 35 (62.5%) had an HPV infection. The frequency of HPV or HR-HPV infections rose with increasing severity of cytological abnormalities (P Conclusion In Ningbo, many women with cervical cytologic abnormalities have HPV infection. Vaccines targeting HPV52 and HPV58 in conjunction with HPV16 and HPV18 are required for the prevention and treatment of cervical lesions in Chinese women.
A 5’ 2 kilobase-pair region of the imprinted mouse H19 gene exhibits exclusive paternal methylation throughout development

The imprinted mouse H19 gene is hypermethylated on the inactive paternal allele in somatic tissues and sperm. Previous observations from a limited analysis have suggested that methylation of a few CpG dinucleotides in the region upstream from the start of transcription may be the mark that confers parental identity to the H19 alleles. Here we exploit bisulfite mutagenesis coupled with genomic sequencing to derive the methylation status of 68 CpGs that reside in a 4-kb region 5' to the start of transcription. This method reveals a 2-kb region positioned between 2 and 4 kb upstream from the start of transcription that is strikingly differentially methylated in midgestation embryos. At least 12 of the cytosine residues in this region are exclusively methylated on the paternal allele in blastocysts. In contrast, a 350-bp promoter-proximal region is less differentially methylated in midgestation embryos and, like most of the genome, is largely devoid of methylation on both alleles in blastocysts. We also demonstrate exclusive expression of the maternal H19 allele in the embryos that exhibit paternal methylation of the upstream 2-kb region. These data suggest that the 2-kb differentially methylated region acts as a key regulatory domain for imprinted H19 expression.
ENDOCYTIC MECHANISMS FOR TARGETED DRUG DELIVERY

Advances in the delivery of targeted drug systems have evolved to enable highly regulated site specific localization to subcellular organelles. Targeting therapeutics to individual intracellular compartments has resulted in benefits to therapies associated with these unique organelles. Endocytosis, a mechanism common to all cells in the body, internalizes macromolecules and retains them in transport vesicles which traffic along the endolysosomal scaffold. An array of vesicular internalization mechanisms exist, therefore understanding the key players specific to each pathway has allowed researchers to bioengineer macromolecular complexes for highly specialized delivery. Membrane specific receptors most frequently enter the cell through endocytosis following the binding of a high affinity ligand. High affinity ligands interact with membrane receptors, internalize in membrane bound vesicles, and traffic through cells in different manners to allow for accumulation in early endosomal fractions or lysosomally associated fractions. Although most drug delivery complexes aim to avoid lysosomal degradation, more recent studies have shown the clinical utility in directed protein delivery to this environment for the enzymatic release of therapeutics. Targeting nanomedicine complexes to the endolysosomal pathway has serious potential for improving drug delivery for the treatment of lysosomal storage diseases, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. Although several issues remain for receptor specific targeting, current work is investigating a synthetic receptor approach for high affinity binding of targeted macromolecules.
The effects of catecholamine and related compounds on the adenyl cyclase system in the epidermis

SUMMARY The effect of various hormones and drugs on the adenyl cyclase system of pig and human epidermal slices was studied in vitro. Adrenaline and isoproterenol in the presence of theophylline increased the epidermal cyclic AMP level 20-fold in 5 min. Noradrenaline also stimulated cyclic AMP accumulation but to a much lesser degree. The adrenaline stimulation was marked even in the absence of the phosphodiesterase inhibitor, theophylline. Theophylline potentiated the effect of adrenaline at the concentration of 2–10 mM although theophylline alone did not elevate the cyclic AMP level significantly. The Km for adrenaline stimulation of the adenyl cyclase system of pig epidermis was 77·10−7 M. A β-adrenergic antagonist, propranolol, markedly inhibited the adrenaline stimulation while α-antagonists, phentolamine or priscoline, showed little effect. These results are in accord with the view that the epidermis possesses an active adenyl cyclase system with β-adrenergic receptors.
A PHAGOTROPHICALLY DERIVABLE GROWTH FACTOR IN THE PLASTIDIC DINOFLAGELLATE GYRODINIUM RESPLENDENS (DINOPHYCEAE)

The marine dinoflagellate Gyrodinium resplendens Hulburt is a mixotroph. It possesses chloroplasts and is photosynthetic, and it also feeds phagotrophically on another dinoflagellate, Prorocentrum minimum (Pavillard) Schiller. The species could be cultivated only in food-replete cultures. When kept in cultures without food, cellular chl a content and photosynthetic activity of G. resplendens decreased and growth ceased after a few days. In food-replete cultures, G. resplendens could grow strictly heterotrophically in darkness, but growth rate was then three times lower than in food-replete cultures kept in light. It is suggested that the main importance of phagotrophy is to acquire a growth factor essential to photosynthetic growth. The addition of soil extract or amino acids to the growth medium induced enhanced photosynthetic growth of the species even without the presence of particulate food, but only for approximately 2 weeks. Long-term starvation of G. resplendens led to loss of the ability to feed, and therefore starved cells eventually reached a point of no return where neither photosynthesis nor phagotrophy could sustain further growth. Light microscopical observations on G. resplendens revealed new morphological and behavioral details of the species.
Glycoconjugates of the intestinal epithelium of the domestic fowl (Gallus domesticus): A lectin histochemistry study

A lectin histochemical study was performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues of duodenum, jejunum, ileum, caecum and colon from six fasted and six non-fasted 8-week-old chickens (Gallus domesticus). The purpose of this study was to identifyin situ the pattern of carbohydrate residues present on the luminal surface of the intestinal epithelium. Ten biotinylated lectins with different sugar specificities were used as probes, and avidin—biotin—peroxidase complex (ABC) was used as a ‘visualant’. The most significant finding was the binding pattern ofLens culinaris agglutinin to various segments of the intestines. The luminal surface of the small intestinal epithelium did not stain with this lectin. In the colon the luminal surface was lightly stained, while the caecal luminal surface was intensely stained. Throughout the intestine the luminal surface stained withCanavalia ensiformis agglutinin,Ricinus communis agglutinin-I and wheatgerm agglutinin, but it did not stain withDolichos biflorus agglutinin. These findings indicated that, throughout the intestine, the luminal surface contains glycoconjugates with eitherN- orO-linked glycoprotein, or both, with terminal non-reducing β-galactosyl and sialyl residues. Furthermore, the caecal surface is rich inN-linked glycoproteins with an α-(1→6)-linked fucosyl residue near the glycosidic linkage. The potential significance of these observations and the role of glycoconjugates in host—parasite interaction (i.e.Eimeria sp. versusGallus domesticus) are discussed.
On k-ordered Hamiltonian graphs

A Hamiltonian graph G of order n is k-ordered, 2 ≤ k ≤ n, if for every sequence v1, v2, …, vk of k distinct vertices of G, there exists a Hamiltonian cycle that encounters v1, v2, …, vk in this order. Define f(k, n) as the smallest integer m for which any graph on n vertices with minimum degree at least m is a k-ordered Hamiltonian graph. In this article, answering a question of Ng and Schultz, we determine f(k, n) if n is sufficiently large in terms of k. Let g(k, n) = $\lceil{{n}\over{2}}\rceil + \lfloor{{k}\over{2}}\rfloor$ - 1. More precisely, we show that f(k, n) = g(k, n) if n ≥ 11k - 3. Furthermore, we show that f(k, n) ≥ g(k, n) for any n ≥ 2k. Finally we show that f(k, n) > g(k, n) if 2k ≤ n ≤ 3k - 6. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Graph Theory 32: 17–25, 1999 An earlier version of this article was written while Sarkozy was visiting MSRI Berkeley, as part of the Combinatorics Program.
Models for the design, simulation, and performance of distributed-function architecture

In the 1960's enormous progress was made in the automated design of computer systems.1 the modeling of parallel compulations.2,3 and the simulation and evaluation of performance of computer systems.4 With the advent of multiprocessor systems, computer networks, and distributed-function architecture, additional problems are now encountered. for example, the design of computer systems cannot be restricted to a von Neumann type of architecture. A means of describing the possible concurrency between units in the system must be found either through some new language developments or through some innovative model methodology. Modeling of parallel computations cannot be restricted to the design of asynchronous structures on one hand, and the behavior of algorithms on the other hand. but should encompass simultaneouly all of the modules of a system. hardware as well as software. In particular orderly interprocess communications and sharing of resources have to be taken into account. Techniques to represent extant or projected systems at different levels of detail. to simulate them under various configurations. and to analyze them for correctness have to be further developed. Stochastic predictions of performance have to graduate from single to multiple resource system.
Presence and role of cytosine methylation in DNA viruses of animals

Nucleotide composition varies greatly among DNA viruses of animals, yet the evolutionary pressures and biological mechanisms driving these patterns are unclear. One of the most striking discrepancies lies in the frequency of CpG (the dinucleotide CG, linked by a phosphate group), which is underrepresented in most small DNA viruses (those with genomes below 10 kb) but not in larger DNA viruses. Cytosine methylation might be partially responsible, but research on this topic has focused on a few virus groups. For several viruses that integrate their genome into the host genome, the methylation status during this stage has been studied extensively, and the relationship between methylation and viral-induced tumor formation has been examined carefully. However, for actively replicating viruses—particularly small DNA viruses—the methylation status of CpG motifs is rarely known and the effects on the viral life cycle are obscure. In vertebrate host genomes, most cytosines at CpG sites are methylated, which in vertebrates acts to regulate gene expression and facilitates the recognition of unmethylated, potentially pathogen-associated DNA. Here we briefly introduce cytosine methylation before reviewing what is currently known about CpG methylation in DNA viruses.
Chaotic synchronization of injection-locked semiconductor lasers with bandwidth broadening

An experimental demonstration of the chaotic synchronization between two injection-locked semiconductor lasers is reported in this paper. Optical injection on the semiconductor laser not only generates optical chaotic output, but also broadens the bandwidth up to two fold of the laser intrinsic bandwidth. Since the chaotic synchronization based on this system is very sensitive to optical phase, the synchronization quality subject to both phase match and phase mismatch is measured in both time and frequency domains. The synchronization quality of each case is quantitatively expressed by the correlation coefficient.
Glycolysis in modified ascites tumor cells

Abstract The metabolism of glucose and fructose 1,6-diphosphate (FDP) to lactic acid was studied in normal and modified mouse ascites tumor cells. Modified cells were those in which the cell had been altered experimentally so that it was no longer semipermeable; these cells took up the dye, nigrosin, and stained black. The results of metabolic studies indicated that the mouse ascites tumor cells were permeable to glucose, but impermeable to FDP. The modified tumor cells, however, metabolized both glucose and FDP at rates equal to that of glucose with normal cells, but only when glycolytic co-factors were added. These studies indicated that cells in which the semipermeable characteristic of the cell membrane had been altered apparently lost relatively low molecular weight compounds, such as substrate and co-factors, but retained a full complement of glycolytic enzymes.
Implications of selective type II IMP dehydrogenase (IMPDH) inhibition by the 6-ethoxycarbonyl-3,3-disubstituted-1,5-diazabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane-2,4-diones on tumor cell death.

Abstract It was shown previously that three 1,5-diazabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane-2,4-diones selectively inhibited human Type II IMP dehydrogenase (IMPDH) from Tmolt 4 cell leukemia [Barnes et al. , Biochemistry 2000;39:13641–50]. The agents acted as competitive inhibitors of this isoform, yet when tested against human Type I at concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 500 μM, Type I was not inhibited. This study focuses on the antineoplastic activity and cellular effects of one of these agents and two new derivatives containing ethoxycarbonyl substitution at position C6. Agents were studied for antiproliferative activity in human Tmolt 4 leukemia ( ec 50 3.3 to 9.2 μM) and alterations in the levels of enzymes involved with cellular metabolism, including DNA and RNA syntheses due to IMPDH inhibition. Results reported here demonstrate that 6-ethoxycarbonyl-3,3-disubstituted-1,5-diazabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane-2,4-diones are effective inhibitors of DNA synthesis (30–66% inhibition) due to reductions in dGTP pool levels. Collectively, the three agents proved to be selective inhibitors of human IMPDH Type II activity ( K i 11–33 μM), leading to cytotoxicity in a number of suspended and solid tumor lines, notably MCF-7 ( ec 50 0.7 to 6.0 μM). In addition, negative cytotoxic actions of these agents on WI-38 cell growth, a normal rapidly growing human line, suggest that specific targeting of Type II IMPDH would help to eliminate cell killing in lines where Type I predominates. Furthermore, effects of agents on DNA synthesis and cell death could be reversed by the addition of exogenous guanosine to the medium. Results from in vitro studies suggest that the 6-ethoxycarbonyl-3,3-disubstituted-1,5-diazabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane-2,4-diones may be used as effective isozyme-selective chemotherapeutic agents.
ASSETS IN INTRAHOUSEHOLD BARGAINING AMONG WOMEN WORKERS IN COLOMBIA'S CUT-FLOWER INDUSTRY

Abstract Drawing on ethnographic and survey data, this article examines the diverse ways in which land and home ownership, wage income, and social capital combine to structure the alternatives of women workers in the cut-flower industry of rural Colombia. Most of these workers live in traditional male-dominated households where domestic abuse is prevalent. Data showing rates of property ownership by gender are presented, and the barriers and facilitators to property ownership by gender among agricultural wage-workers are analyzed. Property ownership is acquired largely through inheritance or purchase, which is influenced by social capital and the historical nature of relationships with large landowners. Women's household bargaining strategies rely on a combination of assets: kin networks; labor-related networks; and physical, financial, and individual assets. The author argues that the social capital of individuals, including their labor, kin, and solidarity networks, is key to an understanding of both pr...
An all-sputtered buffer layer architecture for high-Jc YBa2Cu3O7−δ coated conductors

Abstract We report the development of an all-sputter-deposited buffer multilayer architecture for the growth of high critical current density ( J c ) YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7− δ (YBCO) films on metallic tapes. The structure comprises the layer sequence of CeO 2 /YSZ/LNO (YSZ: yttria stabilized zirconia, LNO: LaNiO 3 ) on biaxially textured Ni substrates. X-ray diffraction analysis of the base LaNiO 3 (LNO) layers indicated that well textured films can be obtained at deposition temperatures ( T dep ) between 450°C and 500°C, while higher T dep yielded polycrystalline films. The degree of LNO crystallinity was also influenced by the oxygen partial pressure during the growth. Scanning electron microscopy observations revealed a smooth, dense and crack-free surface morphology, independent of film thickness in the range of 50–300 nm. Subsequent YSZ and CeO 2 films were deposited to complete the buffer-layer structure. Epitaxial YBCO films grown by pulsed laser ablation on the CeO 2 /YSZ/LNO/Ni multilayer structure have self-field J c values as high as 1.3×10 6 A/cm 2 at 77 K. Effects of the LNO base-layer thickness on the quality of buffers and on the superconducting properties of YBCO films showed no remarkable differences. The present results demonstrate a viable approach for the production of long length YBCO superconducting wires.
Homeschooling and Racism

This article examines the diffusion of homeschooling legislation throughout the 50 states. Event history analysis is used to assess why certain states adopted homeschooling legislation and why some states adopted such legislation earlier than others. Results show that several state-level characteristics are associated with higher odds of enacting homeschooling legislation of which the most noted is state school segregation levels. The data suggest a correlation between racism and the geotemporal diffusion of homeschooling legislation.
Active uptake of dihydromorphine and other narcotic analgesics by cerebral cortical slices.

Abstract Narcotic analgesics have been shown to be accumulated in cerebral cortical slices by a process having the characteristics of an active transport system. In addition, diffusion and binding contributed to the total uptake of the analgesics into brain slices. The total uptake of dihydromorphine (1 × 10 −6 M in medium) was found to reach steady state equilibrium in 30 min at 37° with a maximum tissue to medium concentration ratio ( T M ) of 2.3. Accumulation in vitro of the narcotic analgesics in brain differed from their accumulation in the kidney and in the choroid plexus in that there was a lower ( T M ) ratio at equilibrium for brain and the uptake by brain was not inhibited by quaternary organic bases. The narcotic analgesic antagonist, nalorphine, consistently depressed the uptake of dihydromorphine in a competitive manner.
The Accumulation of Empty Containers in Urban Areas: Policy Implications from a Stochastic Formulation

The accumulation of empty cargo containers in urban areas is an important issue for communities and policy makers as these containers seem to restrict the use of valuable land and diminish the quality of life of communities close to ports and storage depots. Different reasons have been offered to explain this accumulation, with no definite answer. This paper examines the validity of the most frequently cited explanations using a stochastic formulation to model the accumulation process over a time-expanded network. To the authors’ knowledge, this represents the first paper dealing with empty containers as a concern for urban planning and policy making. This paper explores the impact that the planning horizon, variability, profit margins, acquisition costs and storage costs have on the accumulation of containers at areas with excess supply of empty units. The analyses suggest that: (1) trade imbalances create the conditions for the accumulation of empty containers, but cost considerations lead shipping companies to eventually store the surplus of empties at nearby urban areas; (2) the purchase price of new containers is not the factor that explains the accumulation of empty containers, though it may become important in the future if purchase prices drop below reposition costs; (3) although there is a need to store empty containers to protect against shortages, the observed accumulation of empty containers at supply areas far exceeds what seems justifiable by the operational needs; and (4) the accumulation of empty containers is thus primarily linked to the relationship between storage and reposition costs, as low storage costs seem to provide a significant financial incentive to accumulate empty containers. The paper argues that part of the problem is that the container industry is not taking into account the externalities they produce, and that this situation could be corrected by taxing empty container storage in an amount equal to the economic value of the externalities produced. Alternative courses of action include the use of land use zoning restrictions, and/or consensus based solutions that lead to voluntary reductions in the numbers of empty containers stored.
Effect of cross-linker functionality on the adhesion of highly cross-linked polymer networks: A molecular dynamics study of epoxies

The effect of cross-linker functionality and interfacial bond density on the fracture behavior of highly cross-linked polymer networks bonded to a solid surface is studied using large-scale molecular dynamics simulations. Three different cross-linker functionalities (f = 3, 4, and 6) are considered. The polymer networks are created between two solid surfaces with the number of bonds to the surfaces varying from zero to full bonding to the network. Stress−strain curves are determined for each system from tensile pull and shear deformations. At full interfacial bond density the failure mode is cohesive. The cohesive failure stress is almost identical for shear and tensile modes. The simulations directly show that cohesive failure occurs when the number of interfacial bonds is greater than in the bulk. Decreasing the number of interfacial bonds results in cohesive to adhesive transition consistent with recent experimental results. The correspondence between the stress−strain curves at different f and the seq...
CK1 is required for a mitotic checkpoint that delays cytokinesis

Summary Failure to accurately partition genetic material during cell division causes aneuploidy and drives tumorigenesis [1]. Cell-cycle checkpoints safeguard cells from such catastrophes by impeding cell-cycle progression when mistakes arise. FHA-RING E3 ligases, including human RNF8 [2] and CHFR [3] and fission yeast Dma1 [4], relay checkpoint signals by binding phosphorylated proteins via their FHA domains and promoting ubiquitination of downstream targets [5]. Upon mitotic checkpoint activation, S. pombe Dma1 concentrates at spindle pole bodies (SPBs) in an FHA-dependent manner and ubiquitinates Sid4, a scaffold of Polo kinase, to suspend cytokinesis [6]. However, the kinase or kinases that phosphoprime Sid4 for Dma1-mediated ubiquitination are unknown. Here, we report that the highly conserved protein kinase CK1 transmits the signal necessary to stall cytokinesis by phosphopriming Sid4 for Dma1-mediated ubiquitination. Like Dma1, CK1 accumulates at SPBs during a mitotic arrest and associates stably with SPB components, including Sid4. Our results establish CK1 as an integral component of a mitotic, ubiquitin-mediated checkpoint pathway.
Fluoride inhibition in patients with atypical dibucaine-resistant plasmacholinesterase

The fluoride numbers (FN) of 144 individuals referred to our laboratory for dibucaine number (DN) determinations because of prolonged apnea following succinylcholine in the probands or relatives were determined by our new method using 2.5×10−4M concentration of sodium fluoride at 37 C. Dibucaine-resistant homozygotes and heterozygotes both had lower FN than the normal homozygotes. A linear correlation between DN and FN for all these genotypes was found which is described by the equation FN=0.59DN+32. The correlation coefficient was r=0.94. This equation will help in the correct identification of atypical fluoride resistant genotypes, since these ought to have an observed FN lower by 2 standard deviations than the FN calculated from this equation.
Revolutionary ecologies: Ecosocialism and critical pedagogy

In this article, we argue that critical and revolutionary educational praxis is increasingly shaped by and through ecological politics and imaginaries. Indeed, given the pervasiveness of environmental crisis in our everyday lives and vocabularies, we argue that critical educators can no longer ignore questions of ecojustice. In keeping with a growing interdisciplinary field of green Marxist scholarship, we argue that "greening" critical pedagogy ought not diminish its radical intent or its goal of transforming oppressive social and economic conditions. Drawing on the field of political ecology, we argue for critical revolutionary pedagogy to be informed by a dialectics of ecological and environmental justice that highlights the situatedness of environmental conflict and injustice toward nonhuman nature without obscuring its historical production under capitalist value forms. In particular, we explore schooling as one site of environmental injustice before embarking on a broader discussion of how justice t...
A Note on the Managerial Relevance of Interdependence

The concept of interdependence between countries is analyzed from the viewpoint of a profit-making firm. The author shows how the level of interdependence becomes important for risk-avoiding, international sourcing and marketing decisions. By implication, the manager's most useful option is one which includes not only varying degrees of but also positive and negative types of interdependence.
HTGL: a program modelling language

This paper describes an abstract language called HTGL used to model the parallel structure and behavior of programs. These abstract models can be used as input to simulators and analysis tools for more accurate simulation than analytic or queueing models, without the unnecessary burden of compiling actual programs. It can also be used as a rapid software prototyping tool, for easily measuring the inherent parallelism in a parallel algorithm prior to actual coding, or for implementing certain compiler optimizations on the simplified data structures of the abstract language. Source code is publicly available and includes a reusable software library.
Using the Readability Assessment Instrument to Evaluate Patient Medication Leaflets

Seven phenytoin information leaflets were evaluated for their readability using the Singh Readability Assessment Instrument (RAIN). These evaluations were performed to ascertain if the variable criteria of the RAIN, developed to assess the readability of patient information brochures, were appropriate for evaluating the readability of medication information leaflets. Leaflets were scored in terms of eight variables identified by reading researchers as facilitating comprehension: global coherence, local coherence, unity, audience appropriateness, adjunct questions, writing style, illustrations, and typography. A scoring criterion of 80% adherence on most variables was considered acceptable. The American Association of Retired Persons leaflet was found to be acceptable. Five of the leaflets failed to meet RAIN criteria for audience appropriateness, adjunct questions, illustrations, and typography. Results support the RAIN as a useful tool for evaluating and optimizing the readability of medication information leaflets.
Point Contact Conductance of an Open Resonator

Coherent resonant tunneling peaks are observed in the conductance of a quantum point contact coupled to an open resonator in a two-dimensional electron gas as we tune the resonator's dimensions. A wavelet based boundary wall method is used to compute both the electronic wave function and probability current in and around the resonator. We find excellent agreement between the calculated and measured conductance resonances, and identify fine structure associated with the lemon billiard cavity modes.
On the optimization of the capacitive beam pick-off

Abstract Tests with the capacitive pick-off used with a time-of-flight system are described, and the optimization of the parameters is discussed.
The Role of Total Parotidectomy for Metastatic Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Malignant Melanoma

Importance Metastatic cutaneous malignancies of the head and neck, including cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) and malignant melanoma (MM), are aggressive cancers frequently involving the parotid-area lymph nodes (LNs). In such cases, controversy exists about the extent of surgical resection, with many centers choosing not to remove the parotid deep lobe LNs. Objectives To determine patterns of intraparotid and neck metastasis, to identify risk factors, and to report outcomes in patients with parotid superficial lobe LN metastasis from cSCC and MM. Design, Setting, and Participants We retrospectively reviewed 65 adults from Mayo Clinic in Minnesota who underwent total parotidectomy and neck dissection for metastatic cSCC (n = 42) or MM (n = 23) involving the parotid superficial lobe. Interventions Total parotidectomy and neck dissection. Main Outcomes and Measures The presence and number of parotid deep lobe and neck LNs involved with metastatic disease were assessed. Risk factors associated with metastatic spread to the parotid deep lobe were identified, and patient outcomes are reported. Results Eleven of 42 patients with cSCC (26%) and 3 of 23 patients with MM (13%) metastatic to the parotid superficial lobe also had parotid deep lobe metastasis. Thirteen of 42 patients with cSCC (31%) and 6 of 23 patients with MM (26%) had positive cervical LN metastasis. Among all patients, 22% (14 of 65) had metastasis to the parotid deep lobe, and 29% (19 of 65) had metastasis to cervical LNs. By univariate analysis, neck metastasis and N2 neck disease were risk factors for metastatic cSCC spread to the parotid deep lobe. Parotid-area local control was excellent in patients with metastatic cSCC (93% [39 of 42]) and MM (100% [23 of 23]). Long-term survival remains poor because distant metastases are common. Conclusions and Relevance Metastatic cSCC and MM to the parotid superficial lobe also involve LNs in the parotid deep lobe and neck in a significant and almost equal number of patients. Parotid deep lobe metastasis from cutaneous malignancies portends a poor prognosis. Therefore, patients with superficial parotid gland metastasis should be considered for management with not only neck dissection and adjuvant therapy but also deep lobe parotidectomy.
Non-iterative fifth-order triple and quadruple excitation energy corrections in correlated methods

Abstract In critical cases, single-reference correlated methods like coupled-cluster theory or its quadratic CI approximations fail because of the importance of additional highly excited excitations that cannot usually be included, like connected triple and quadruple excitations. Here we present the first, non-iterative method to evaluate the full set of fifth-order corrections to CCSD and QCISD and assess their accuracy compared to full CI for the very sensitive Be 2 curve and other cases.