cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF)-mediated ganglion cell survival in a rodent model of non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION)

Background Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) has been shown to protect retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in traumatic optic nerve injury. We sought to evaluate this neuroprotective effect of CNTF after an ischaemic event using rodent anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (rAION), a mouse model of non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION). Methods We induced rAION in Thy1- cyan fluorescent protein (CFP) transgenic mice by exposing the optic nerve to frequency doubled neodymium yttrium aluminium garnet laser pulses following intravenous rose bengal injection. One day after rAION induction, an intravitreal injection of 0.75 μg CNTF or vehicle (sham injection) was given. Animals were euthanised on day 15 after induction, tissues isolated and CFP cells in the RGC layer were counted using stereology in flat-mounted retina. The average number of CFP-positive (CFP+) cells was determined for each study group and the percentages of RGC loss were compared between the different groups. Results Two weeks after rAION induction, significantly more (CFP+) cells were preserved in CNTF-treated eyes than in sham-injected controls. Sham-treated animals showed a 58% loss of CFP+ cells. In contrast, CFP+ cell density in CNTF-treated eyes decreased by only 10%, when compared with untreated control eyes. This increased survival was statistically significant (p Conclusions CNTF exerts a neuroprotective effect in ischaemic optic nerve injury and promotes RGC survival, suggesting that CNTF may be effective in the clinical treatment of human NAION.
Mars Tumbleweed Simulation Using Singular Perturbation Theory

The Mars Tumbleweed is a new surface rover concept that utilizes Martian winds as the primary source of mobility. Several designs have been proposed for the Mars Tumbleweed, all using aerodynamic drag to generate force for traveling about the surface. The Mars Tumbleweed, in its deployed configuration, must be large and lightweight to provide the ratio of drag force to rolling resistance necessary to initiate motion from the Martian surface. This paper discusses the dynamic simulation details of a candidate Tumbleweed design. The dynamic simulation model must properly evaluate and characterize the motion of the tumbleweed rover to support proper selection of system design parameters. Several factors, such as model flexibility, simulation run times, and model accuracy needed to be considered in modeling assumptions. The simulation was required to address the flexibility of the rover and its interaction with the ground, and properly evaluate its mobility. Proper assumptions needed to be made such that the simulated dynamic motion is accurate and realistic while not overly burdened by long simulation run times. This paper also shows results that provided reasonable correlation between the simulation and a drop/roll test of a tumbleweed prototype.
Auto-preview camera orientation for environment perception on a mobile robot

Using wide-angle or omnidirectional camera lenses to increase a mobile robot's field of view introduces nonlinearity in the image due to the 'fish-eye' effect. This complicates distance perception, and increases image processing overhead. Using multiple cameras avoids the fish-eye complications, but involves using more electrical and processing power to interface them to a computer. Being able to control the orientation of a single camera, both of these disadvantages are minimized while still allowing the robot to preview a wider area. In addition, controlling the orientation allows the robot to optimize its environment perception by only looking where the most useful information can be discovered. In this paper, a technique is presented that creates a two dimensional map of objects of interest surrounding a mobile robot equipped with a panning camera on a telescoping shaft. Before attempting to negotiate a difficult path planning situation, the robot takes snapshots at different camera heights and pan angles and then produces a single map of the surrounding area. Distance perception is performed by making calibration measurements of the camera and applying coordinate transformations to project the camera's findings into the vehicle's coordinate frame. To test the system, obstacles and lines were placed to form a chicane. Several snapshots were taken with different camera orientations, and the information from each were stitched together to yield a very useful map of the surrounding area for the robot to use to plan a path through the chicane.
Molecular Aspects of H. pylori-Related MALT Lymphoma

Helicobacter pylori-related extranodal marginal zone lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue is a paradigm for malignancy arising in an inflammatory background. While the diagnosis of H. pylori gastritis is often straightforward, distinction between severe gastritis and early lymphoma can be difficult and requires careful assessment of clinical findings in addition to histological features and immunohistochemical results. A number of cytogenetic abnormalities have been discovered in H. pylori-related lymphomas and several have clinical importance, related to the responsiveness of lymphoma to H. pylori eradication therapy, but routine molecular studies are not widely utilized. While molecular methods may be used in equivocal cases, a trial of conservative therapy is warranted given the propensity for these lymphomas to regress with eradication of the organism. Once therapy is initiated, care must be taken to avoid a premature assignment of disease refractoriness because complete response can take several months to more than a year. Cases truly refractory to H. pylori eradication therapy may be treated with adjuvant chemoradiation with a high response rate.
Quantification of 20α- and 20β-dihydroprogesterone in plasma of the pregnant rhesus monkey

Abstract A competitive protein binding assay for 20α- and 20β-dihydroprogesterone is described which involves an initial chemical or enzymatic oxidation of these two isomers to progesterone. The assay can distinguish between 20α- and 20β-dihydroprogesterone and is sensitive to pg amounts of these two steroids. Venous steroid concentrations were measured in the pregnant rhesus monkey employing this assay. In this species the corpus luteum (CL) at days 22 and 157 of gestation is the primary ovarian source of 20α-dihydroprogesterone as indicated by a higher plasma concentration of this steroid in the ovarian vein draining the ovary containing the CL (+CL) than in the contralateral vein (−CL) (9.34 ng/ml versus 1.72 ng/ml, day 22; 7.52 ng/ml versus 1.96 ng/ml, day 157). By contrast the CL at day 50 appeared to secrete no 20α-dihydroprogesterone as evidenced by the essentially equal steroid levels in both ovarian veins. The CL synthesizes 20β-dihydroprogesterone only during early gestation (21–22 days) when the concentration of this steroid was 6.46 ng/ml and 0.87 ng/ml in the ovarian (+CL) and ovarian (−CL) veins, respectively. Synthesis of both 20α- and 20β-dihydroprogesterone occurs in the fetoplacental unit throughout pregnancy. This is indicated by higher steroid concentrations in the uterine vein than in the femoral vein. The results suggest both a qualitative and quantitative alteration in the luteal synthesis of 20α- and 20β-dihydroprogesterone with the advancement of gestation. The data also provide additional evidence that the steroidogenic activity of the CL is enhanced before parturition.
Mutagenicity of mild gasification products in Salmonella typhimurium

Mild gasification is a coal-conversion technology that is currently under development in order to help meet future energy needs. 7 products from this process were assayed for mutagenic activity in the pre-incubation variant of the Salmonella assay (Ames test) using both DMSO and Tween 80 as sample solvents. Significant mutagenic activity was detected only in the wide-boiling-point composite materials, and the amount of this activity was found to be dependent on the solvent utilized. The highest number of revertants detected were on TA98 and its O-acetyltransferase over-producing derivative, YG1024, in the presence of the S9 microsomal fraction. Aromatic amines were suggested as a possible source of the mutagenic activity elicited. An examination of the liquid and tar phases of one composite material (MG-120) indicated that the mutagenic activity was restricted to the tar phase.
Considering a Compact Disc System

For the past two years or so, there's been a lot of discussion about compact discs and how they will affect libraries. Now that so many compact disc products are available, you may be considering which one(s) to purchase and wondering what such a system will mean for your library. The following guidelines may help you evaluate the various products and plan for their easy integration into your library.
Evolution in Apiales: nuclear and chloroplast markers together in (almost) perfect harmony

Relationships within the angiosperm order Apiales have long been difficult to interpret. Traditionally, the order comprised two families, Apiaceae and Araliaceae. Recent studies, however, suggest three additional lineages should also be recognized in the order (Pittosporaceae plus two tribes segregated from Araliaceae, Mackinlayeae and Myodocarpeae), and that one taxon (Apiaceae subfamily Hydrocotyloideae) is polyphyletic. Nuclear data also support the placement of five enigmatic genera (Aralidium, Griselinia, Melanophylla, Pennantia and Torricellia) within an expanded Apiales. To date, detailed molecular studies of Apiales have relied largely on data derived from plastid sequences, especially matK and rbcL. To test and complement the results of these studies, the 26S (large subunit) of nuclear ribosomal DNA was sequenced and analysed phylogenetically. Results from this study confirm that Apiales comprise five major lineages: core Apiaceae, core Araliaceae, Pittosporaceae, the Mackinlaya group and the Myodocarpus group. Moreover, using an expanded sampling of members of subfamily Hydrocotyloideae, the nature and extent of the polyphyly is confirmed, with members of this taxon found among four distinct clades within Apiales. © 2004 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, 2004, 144, 123–147.
Quench echoes in molecular dynamics--A new phonon spectroscopy

Abstract We demonstrate a new echo phenomena that appears in molecular dynamics simulations of a solid. This echo occurs in the behavior of the temperature after the system recovers from two abrupt quenches. We give a simple explanation of this effect and show how it can be used to determine the density of states and the coupling between normal modes. We have found considerable anharmonicities even at low temperature in a Lennard-Jones glass.
Oxidation of hemoglobin by arenediazonium salts. The influence of dioxygen

Abstract The reactions of human hemoglobin with p-nitro- and p-chlorobenzenediazonium tetrafluoroborates in the presence and absence of molecular oxygen have been investigated in kinetic detail. The oxidation of iron(II) occurs with first order rate dependence on both the hemoglobin and diazonium salt concentrations, but inverse first order dependence on the concentration of molecular oxygen characterizes reactions performed in the presence of O 2 . In the absence of O 2 , nitrobenzene is the only product observed from hemoglobin oxidation by p-NO 2 C 6 H 4 N 2 + BF 4 − , and a 1:1 stoichiometry exists between nitrobenzene produced and Fe(II) oxidized. In the presence of O 2 , p-nitrophenol is the dominant product, but product yield is dependent on the ratio of reactants. Electron transfer to the diazonium salt rather than its corresponding diazohydroxide or diazoate is inferred from the relative absence of pH dependence on the rate of oxidation. The composite results are consistent with a mechanism for hemoglobin oxidation that requires molecular oxygen dissociation from oxyhemoglobin prior to oxidation by the diazonium salt. Implications of this investigation for the mechanism of arylhydrazine reactions with hemoglobin are discussed.
A Comparison of the Accuracy of Three Intraoperative Techniques for Measuring Rotational Correction in Varus Derotational Osteotomies of the Femur.

Background: Based on the complexity of proximal femoral geometry, osteotomies in the coronal plane may change femoral version, while osteotomies in the plane of the femoral neck should not. Theoretically, this relationship can lead to a systematic error when measuring rotational correction in the proximal part of the femur. Methods: We developed a mathematical model to predict the error with three different techniques for rotational measurement: (1) a pin along the axis of the femoral neck and a lateral pin across the femoral condyles, (2) a proximal lateral pin perpendicular to the femur and a lateral pin across the femoral condyles, and (3) two anterior pins representing a score mark on the proximal part of the femur. Varus derotational osteotomies were performed on twenty-four Sawbone femora, and femoral anteversion and the angles between each set of pins were measured. Results: Our mathematical model predicted no error with the neck-pin technique regardless of the type of osteotomy performed. With the lateral pin technique, there was no predicted error with the neck plane osteotomy but a large error with the coronal plane osteotomy. The score-mark technique had a small amount of error with the neck plane osteotomy and a large error with the coronal plane osteotomy. Our Sawbones model measurements correlated well with the mathematical model, with intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.96, 0.89, and 0.91 for the neck-pin, lateral pin, and score-mark techniques, respectively. Conclusions: This study describes and validates a model for predicting the error of three different techniques for measuring femoral rotation. It demonstrates that inadvertent systematic error can occur with lateral pin and score-mark techniques, particularly when the osteotomy is out of plane with the femoral neck. Clinical Relevance: Although the mathematics of this study are complex, the conclusions are clinically straightforward: rotational error is minimized by performing an osteotomy in the plane of the femoral neck or by using a pin in the femoral neck to judge rotation. If neither of these techniques is employed, then systematic error can be introduced and can be substantial.
The impact of team identification on ice hockey brand associations

The present study assessed the influence of team identification on the brand associations of an intercollegiate ice hockey team in the USA. Using the Team Brand Association Scale (TBAS) and the Team Identification Index (TII), a structural model was examined to assess the relationship between the two constructs. Results from a sample of 349 season ticket holders indicated team identification significantly impacts brand associations. By determining the impact of loyalty on associations, sport managers and marketers can concentrate resources on particular team characteristics that require image augmentation or image reinforcement.
Piracy on the simulated seas: the computer games industry's non-legal approaches to fighting illegal downloads of games

The computer games industry suffers from high rates of piracy, with many people downloading illegal copies of games. People in the industry are aware of the problem, and the gravity of it has been acknowledged and commented on by many publishers and developers. Yet unlike the Recording Industry Association of America, Motion Picture Association of America, independent movie studios, and other rights holders, computer game developers and publishers have shied away from attempting to sue pirates or otherwise enforce their rights through the legal system. Instead, the industry has looked to a variety of self-help remedies, a fact that has largely not been commented on by legal scholars. This paper examines the successes and pitfalls of these varied non-legal approaches, broadly classifying them into four categories: digital rights management, online-only offerings, making legal easier, and community engagement.
Newborn sucking behavior and its relation to grasping

Abstract Previous reports have suggested a synchrony between sucking and grasping behaviors in human newborns. This was studied by measuring sucking during grasping and nongrasping and under two fluid conditions. Grasping (traction) was induced and recorded through use of a cylindrical rod suspended from a pressure transducer, allowing continuous grasping and simultaneous polygraph recording of grasp strength. Infants were able to regulate their grasp strengths during the two sucking conditions, with no fluid available and with sucrose solution available. Presentation of the sweet fluid resulted in longer sucking bursts, slower sucking speed within bursts, more sucks overall, and higher heart rates within bursts. Grasp strength varied significantly with the fluid condition. A reliable increase in grasping occurred under the sucrose-sucking condition. Moreover, grasping strength was significantly enhanced during sucking bursts relative to strength manifested during sucking pauses. Sucking and grasping in newborns are clearly synchronous.
Value of a Quality Assessment Program in Optimizing Cryopreservation of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells in a Multicenter Study

ABSTRACT Cryopreservation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) allows assays of cellular function and phenotype to be performed in batches at a later time on PBMC at a central laboratory to minimize assay variability. The Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS) is an ongoing prospective study of the natural and treated history of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection that stores cryopreserved PBMC from participants two times a year at four study sites. In order to ensure consistent recovery of viable PBMC after cryopreservation, a quality assessment program was implemented and conducted in the MACS over a 6-year period. Every 4 months, recently cryopreserved PBMC from HIV-1-infected and HIV-1-uninfected participants at each MACS site were thawed and evaluated. The median recoveries of viable PBMC for HIV-1-infected and -uninfected participants were 80% and 83%, respectively. Thawed PBMC from both HIV-1-infected and -uninfected participants mounted a strong proliferative response to phytohemagglutinin, with median stimulation indices of 84 and 120, respectively. Expression of the lymphocyte surface markers CD3, CD4, and CD8 by thawed PBMC was virtually identical to what was observed on cells measured in real time using whole blood from the same participants. Furthermore, despite overall excellent performance of the four participating laboratories, problems were identified that intermittently compromised the quality of cryopreserved PBMC, which could be corrected and monitored for improvement over time. Ongoing quality assessment helps laboratories improve protocols and performance on a real-time basis to ensure optimal cryopreservation of PBMC for future studies.
Mixed-Resolution Monte Carlo: A Tool for Sampling Proteins and Ligands

We further develop our mixed-resolution Monte Carlo software. The code allows proteins to be modeled with arbitrary atomistic (AA) and coarse-grained (CG) regions: a focus region, such as a binding site with ligand, is modeled atomistically while the remainder is coarse-grained. A corresponding hybrid AA/CG generalized Born solvation treatment was developed [J. Chem. Theory Comp. 8:2921 (2012)]. The new package includes important improvements: (i) improved ease of initializing simulations from PDB files; (ii) improved treatment of AA/CG interface interactions using stored AA information for the CG region; and (iii) a "spotlighting" feature that enables the AA region to be re-defined on the fly to follow a ligand or mobile protein segment. The code is used to sample protein conformational flexibility and, in separate work by Palli et al., protein-ligand interactions.
The direct thermal effects of CHCLF2, CH3CCl3 and CH2Cl2 on atmospheric surface temperatures

Abstract Calculations of the surface temperature change caused by Freon 22 (CHCIF2), methyl chloroform (CH3CCl3) and methylene chloride (CH2Cl2) in the atmosphere were found to be + 0.04, 0.02 and 0.01 K per part per billion by volume (ppbv). This is compared with the calculated temperature increase caused by Freon 11 (CFCl3) and Freon 12 (CF2Cl2) of 0.19 K. ppbv−1. As the current concentration CHClF2, CH3CCl3 and CH2Cl2 in the atmosphere are respectively 0.2, 0.1 and 0.1 ppbv, their effect on the surface temperature is insignificant at this time. It was also found that there was no change (
Transcriptomic and network component analysis of glycerol kinase in skeletal muscle using a mouse model of glycerol kinase deficiency.

Abstract Glycerol kinase (GK) is at the interface of fat and carbohydrate metabolism and has been linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of GK in fat metabolism and insulin signaling in skeletal muscle (an important end organ tissue in T2DM). Microarray analysis determined that there were 525 genes that were differentially expressed (1.2-fold, p value Gyk ), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase regulatory subunit, polypeptide 1 (p85 alpha) ( Pik3r1 ), insulin-like growth factor 1 ( Igf1 ), and growth factor receptor bound protein 2-associated protein 1 ( Gab1 ). Network component analysis demonstrated that transcription factor activities of myogenic differentiation 1 (MYOD), myogenic regulatory factor 5 (MYF5), myogenin (MYOG), nuclear receptor subfamily 4, group A, member 1 (NUR77) are decreased in the Gyk KO whereas the activity of paired box 3 (PAX3) is increased. The activity of MYOD was confirmed using a DNA binding assay. In addition, myoblasts from Gyk KO had less ability to differentiate into myotubes compared to WT myoblasts. These findings support our previous studies in brown adipose tissue and demonstrate that the role of Gyk in muscle is due in part to its non-metabolic (moonlighting) activities.
PREPARATION OF SOME NEW BIPHENYLISOPROPYLOXYCARBONYL AMINO ACIDS AND THEIR APPLICATION TO THE SOLID PHASE SYNTHESIS OF A TRYPTOPHAN‐CONTAINING HEPTAPEPTIDE OF BOVINE PARATHYROID HORMONE

Several new crystalline 2-p-biphenyl-2-propyloxycarbonyl (Bpoc) amino acids were synthesized and characterized. They were found to he stable for months as free acids if kept cold and dry. The Bpoc group could be quantitatively removed by anhydrous 0.5% trifluoroacetic acid in methylene chloride within 10 minutes, under conditions where side chain N-benzyloxycarbonyl groups, O-benzyl ethers, or benzyl esters were completely stable. The tryptophan-containing peptide, H-Glu-Arg-Val-Glu-Trp-Leu-Arg-OH, of bovine parathyroid hormone, was synthesized in good yield by the automated solid phase method using the Bpoc-amino acids.
Effect of bilateral lung volume reduction surgery on FEV1 decline in severe emphysema.

Study Objective. To examine whether lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) alters the anticipated natural rates of decline in FEV1. Design. Retrospective analysis of spirometry results (188 studies) in patients before and after bilateral LVRS. Setting. Large, urban, academic medical center. Patients. 25 patients with severe emphysema (mean (SD) age 60 ± 8 yrs; FEV1 0.74 ± 0.29 L, 29% predicted). Interventions. Bilateral LVRS performed via median sternotomy, with areas targeted for resection based on preoperative evaluation using high-resolution computed tomography, quantitative perfusion scans, and intraoperative inspection of the lungs. Linear regression analysis was performed on each patient using all serial postbronchodilator FEV1 values from before and after LVRS. Results. Lung function data were available between 2–1001 days prior to LVRS and 71–1169 days after LVRS. Comparison of single pre- and post-LVRS FEV1 results confirmed a significant post-operative (3 month) improvement in lung function. The c...
A mouse model of argininosuccinic aciduria: biochemical characterization

Argininosuccinate lyase (AL) has several roles in intermediary metabolism. It is an essential component of the urea cycle, providing a pathway for the disposal of excess nitrogen in mammals. AL links the urea cycle to the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle by generating fumarate. Finally, AL is required for the endogenous production of arginine. In this latter role it may function outside ureagenic organs to provide arginine as a substrate for nitric oxide synthases (NOS). Increasing evidence suggests that argininosuccinate synthetase (AS) and AL are more globally expressed, and the coordinate regulation of AS and AL gene expression with that of the inducible form of NOS (iNOS) provides evidence that this may facilitate the regulation of NOS activity. Deficiency of AL leads to the human urea cycle disorder argininosuccinic aciduria. We produced an AL deficient mouse by gene targeting in order to investigate the role of AL in endogenous arginine production. This mouse also provides a model of the human disorder to explore the pathogenesis of the disorder and possible new treatments. Metabolic studies of these mice demonstrated that they have the same biochemical phenotype as humans, with hyperammonemia, elevated plasma argininosuccinic acid and low plasma arginine. Plasma nitrites, derived from NO, were not reduced in AL deficient mice and there was no significant difference is the level of cyclic GMP, the second messenger induced by NO.
Comparison of silicon photonic crystal resonator designs for optical trapping of nanomaterials.

The use of silicon photonic devices for optical manipulation has recently enabled the direct handling of objects like nucleic acids and nanoparticles that are much smaller than could previously be trapped using traditional laser tweezers. The ability to manipulate even smaller matter however requires the development of photonic structures with even stronger trapping potentials. In this work we investigate theoretically several photonic crystal resonator designs and characterize the achievable trapping stiffness and trapping potential depth (sometimes referred to as the trapping stability). Two effects are shown to increase these trapping parameters: field enhancement in the resonator and strong field containment. We find trapping stiffness as high as 22.3?pN?nm ? 1 for 100?nm polystyrene beads as well as potential depth of 51?000?kBT at T = 300?K, for one Watt of power input to the bus waveguide. Under the same conditions for 70?nm polystyrene beads, we find a stiffness of 69?pN?nm ? 1 and a potential depth of 177?000?kBT. Our calculations suggest that with input power of 10?mW we could trap particles as small as 7.7?nm diameter with a trapping depth of 500?kBT. We expect these traps to eventually enable the manipulation of small matter such as single proteins, carbon nanotubes and metallic nanoparticles.
The inner membrane subassembly of the enteropathogenic Escherichia coli bundle-forming pilus machine

Type IV pili (Tfps) are filamentous surface appendages expressed by Gram-negative microorganisms and play numerous roles in bacterial cell biology. Tfp biogenesis machineries are highly conserved and resemble protein secretion and DNA uptake systems. Although components of Tfp biogenesis systems have been identified, it is not known how they interact to form these machineries. Using the bundle-forming pilus (BFP) of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli as a model Tfp system, we provide evidence of a cytoplasmic membrane subassembly of the Tfp assembly machine composed of putative cytoplasmic nucleotide-binding and cytoplasmic membrane proteins. A combination of genetic, biochemical and biophysical approaches revealed interactions among putative cytoplasmic nucleotide-binding proteins BfpD and BfpF and cytoplasmic membrane proteins BfpC and BfpE of the BFP biogenesis machine. The polytopic membrane protein BfpE appears to be a central component of this subassembly as it interacts with BfpC, BfpD and BfpF. We report that BFP biogenesis probably requires interactions among BfpC, BfpD and BfpE, whereas BFP retraction requires interaction of the PilT-like putative ATPase BfpF with a conserved domain of BfpE. BfpE is the first protein that is not a member of the PilT family to be implicated in Tfp retraction. Furthermore, we found that the putative ATPases BfpD and BfpF play antagonistic roles in BFP biogenesis and retraction, respectively, by interacting with distinct domains of the BFP biogenesis machine.
Planar dye-sensitized photovoltaics through cavity mode enhancement

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) differ from conventional solar cells in that they rely on a large area nanoparticle network to achieve sufficient absorption of sunlight. Although highly successful to date, this approach limits the opportunities to further increase DSSC power efficiency because it necessarily restricts the choice of redox shuttles to those compatible with the long electron transit times and ample recombination opportunities inherent to the nanoparticle-based architecture. Here, we use a resonantly coupled cavity scheme to demonstrate planar, thin-film DSSCs with a polarized, monochromatic incident photon to current efficiency of 17% from a single monolayer of a conventional Ru-dye. Upon illumination on resonance we observe open-circuit voltages that reach 1 V and thereby approach the theoretical limit for open-circuit voltage set by the dye and redox shuttle energy levels. The results supply new insight into processes presently limiting DSSCs and point to novel strategies to overcome these losses.
Biochemical analyses of eight NKX2.5 homeodomain missense mutations causing atrioventricular block and cardiac anomalies.

Objective: There has been considerable interest in understanding determinants of the diverse cardiac phenotypes associated with heterozygous NKX2.5 mutations. We hypothesized that analysis of functional properties of NKX2.5 mutant proteins would result in the ability to classify mutations according to function in a scheme that would help to clarify genotype–phenotype correlations. We analyzed missense mutations in the conserved homeodomain. Methods: We studied in vitro biochemical characteristics, including nuclear localization, DNA binding, transcriptional activation and protein–protein interaction with transcriptional partners (GATA4, TBX5 and NKX2.5 itself), of eight homeodomain missense mutations. Associated phenotypes include atrioventricular (AV) block (98% penetrance), atrial septal defect (83% penetrance), and additional varied heart malformations. Results: Mutations were present at varied homeodomain locations in the putative nuclear localizing signal (1), helix 2 (1), a turn between helix 2 and 3 (1) and helix 3 (5); a spectrum of biochemical phenotypes was observed. All mutants localized to the nuclei but some exhibited anomalous nuclear distribution. While all mutants exhibited markedly decreased DNA binding and reduced transcriptional activation, interaction with transcriptional partners was varied. Conclusion: Each mutant protein had a unique spectrum of observed properties, but our data show that while dominant negative properties could be demonstrated in vitro, the best correlation with clinical phenotypes resulted from the markedly reduced DNA binding shared by all eight homeodomain mutations. This suggests that the principle determinant of the two most common phenotypes associated with homeodomain missense mutations is the total dose of NKX2.5 capable of binding to DNA.
Assessment of seismic performance of extended pile‐shafts

The seismic performance of extended pile-shafts subjected to the current level of displacement ductility demand is assessed for different soil conditions. Local curvature ductility demand is compared with the curvature ductility capacity provided by the current level of confining steel. Parameters in the assessment of extended pile-shafts include the undrained shear strength of cohesive soils, relative density of cohesionless soils, aboveground height, longitudinal reinforcement ratio, axial force level and pile diameter. Results indicate that the curvature ductility demand in the pile decreases with increased soil stiffness but increases with increased aboveground height. The curvature ductility demand however is not sensitive to the longitudinal reinforcement ratio or axial force level, and is independent of the pile diameter. Results further indicate that the curvature ductility capacity available from the current level of confining steel may not be adequate for tall extended pile-shafts, especially for piles with large longitudinal reinforcement ratio and embedded in soft or loose soils. Limits on the maximum longitudinal reinforcement ratio are suggested in the paper. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phase I/II trial of vorinostat with rituximab, cyclophosphamide, etoposide and prednisone as palliative treatment for elderly patients with relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma not eligible for autologous stem cell transplantation

Abstract The standard treatment of relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in frail elderly patients has not been established. A variation was made on rituximab (R), cyclophosphamide (C), etoposide (E), procarbazine and prednisone (P), substituting vorinostat (V) for procarbazine. Patients ≥aged 60 years with relapsed/refractory DLBCL, not candidates for autologous stem cell transplantation, were treated R-CVEP [R 375 mg/m(2) intravenously (IV), day 1; C 600 mg/m(2) IV days 1, 8: E 70 mg/m(2) IV day 1, 140 mg/m(2) days 2, 3 orally (PO); V (300 vs. 400 mg) PO and P 60 mg/m(2) PO days 1-10] every 28 d for six cycles. Quality of life (QoL) was assessed in addition to response. Thirty patients (median age 76 years, 69-88) were enrolled (one died before treatment). Maximum tolerated dose (MTD) for V was 300 mg. For 23 patients at MTD (six phase I + 17 phase II), two were discontinued for toxicity, one withdrew consent, eight achieved complete response (35%), five achieved partial response (22%) and seven progressed (25%). Median overall survival was 17·5 months. Median progression-free survival was 9·2 months. Nine patients are alive. QoL declined during treatment but improved above baseline for patients who completed treatment. In conclusion, R-CVEP was tolerated at MTD and produced durable responses with improved QoL.
Habitat Heterogeneity and Associated Microbial Community Structure in a Small-Scale Floodplain Hyporheic Flow Path

The Nyack floodplain is located on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River, an unregulated, pristine, fifth-order stream in Montana, USA, bordering Glacier National Park. The hyporheic zone is a nutritionally heterogeneous floodplain component harboring a diverse array of microbial assemblages essential in fluvial biogeochemical cycling, riverine ecosystem productivity, and trophic interactions. Despite these functions, microbial community structure in pristine hyporheic systems is not well characterized. The current study was designed to assess whether physical habitat heterogeneity within the hyporheic zone of the Nyack floodplain was sufficient to drive bacterial beta diversity between three different hyporheic flow path locations. Habitat heterogeneity was assessed by measuring soluble reactive phosphorous, nitrate, dissolved organic carbon, dissolved oxygen, and soluble total nitrogen levels seasonally at surface water infiltration, advection, and exfiltration zones. Significant spatial differences were detected in dissolved oxygen and nitrate levels, and seasonal differences were detected in dissolved oxygen, nitrate, and dissolved organic carbon levels. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) and cell counts indicated that bacterial diversity increased with abundance, and DGGE fingerprints covaried with nitrate levels where water infiltrated the hyporheic zone. The ribosomal gene phylogeny revealed that hyporheic habitat heterogeneity was sufficient to drive beta diversity between bacterial assemblages. Phylogenetic (P) tests detected sequence disparity between the flow path locations. Small distinct lineages of Firmicutes, Actinomycetes, Planctomycetes, and Acidobacteria defined the infiltration zone and alpha- and beta-proteobacterial lineages delineated the exfiltration and advection zone communities. These data suggest that spatial habitat heterogeneity drives hyporheic microbial community development and that attempts to understand functional differences between bacteria inhabiting nutritionally heterogeneous hyporheic environments might begin by focusing on the biology of these taxa.
Improved dimensional stability of Corning 9600 and Schott Zerodur glass ceramics

Three vintages of Schott Zerodur and Corning 9600 were thermally cycled repeatedly in the 100-475 K temperature range. Hysteresis has been dramatically reduced in both materials.
Effect of photoperiod on neural estrogen and progestin receptor immunoreactivity in female Syrian hamsters

This study explored the possibility that reduced behavioral responsiveness to estradiol and progesterone in female Syrian hamsters exposed to a short photoperiod is associated with a reduction in the concentration of neural steroid receptors. The effects of long and short photoperiod (LP; SP) exposure on steroid receptor immunoreactivity were examined in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH), medial tuberal region (mTu), medial preoptic area (mPOA), medial nucleus of the amygdala (mAMYG), and the arcuate nucleus (ARC) of ovariectomized hamsters. In Experiment 1, exposure to SP for ten weeks attenuated the lordosis response following sequential treatment with estradiol and progesterone. In a separate group of animals not given hormones, SP decreased the staining intensity of estrogen receptor immunoreactive (ERIR) cells in the mPOA while increasing the number of detectable ERIR cells in part of the mAMYG. In Experiment 2, SP diminished the lordosis response as it did in Experiment 1. One week later, the same females were administered estradiol systemically to induce progestin receptors (PR). Animals housed in SP showed significantly reduced progestin receptor immunoreactivity (PRIR) in the VMH, mTu, mPOA, mAMYG, and ARC. Experiment 3 examined whether the results of Experiment 2 might have been influenced by photoperiodic effects on peripheral metabolism of estradiol. Among hamsters housed in LP or SP, PRs were induced by estradiol implanted unilaterally in the medial basal hypothalamus, thus bypassing possible photoperiodic effects on peripheral estradiol availability. This treatment resulted in significantly fewer cells with detectable PRIR in the VMH and mPOA of SP females, suggesting that the photoperiodic influences on PR induction observed in Experiment 2 do not depend on alterations in the peripheral availability of estradiol.
Least-squares collocation, geophysical inverse theory and geostatistics : a bird's eye view

SUMMARY Geodetical least-squares prediction and collocation, geophysical inverse theory, and geostatistics (the theory of regionalized variables) provide methods that from a theoretical point of view solve a common problem: a continuously defined spatial model is supported by only finitely many observations. The synopsis focuses on common methodological aspects as well as on differences in the underlying mathematical assumptions and their geological implications. Introductory examples familiarize with approaches specific to three earth science applications (least-squares collocation of gravity anomalies, geostatistical estimation of mineral resources, and spectral interpolation of marine magnetic anomalies).
The effect of tobacco advertising bans on tobacco consumption

Tobacco advertising is a public health issue if these activities increase smoking. Although public health advocates assert that tobacco advertising does increase smoking, there is significant empirical literature that finds little or no effect of tobacco advertising. In this paper, these prior studies are examined more closely with several important insights emerging from this analysis. This paper also provides new empirical evidence on the effect of tobacco advertising in 22 Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries. The primary conclusion of this research is that a comprehensive set of tobacco advertising bans can reduce tobacco consumption and that a limited set of advertising bans will have little or no effect.
Hormonal responses to the 6-minute walk test in women and men with coronary heart disease: a pilot study.

Background Women with coronary heart disease (CHD) are more likely than men to develop congestive heart failure (CHF). Dysregulation of sympathetic and volume-regulatory hormones may contribute to the onset of symptomatic CHF. We hypothesized that this hormonal dysregulation develops at an earlier stage of CHD in women than in men. Objectives The study goals were (1) to determine the effect of gender on basal and exercise-induced plasma concentrations of catecholamines and volume-regulatory hormones in patients diagnosed with CHD, New York Heart Association class I and (2) to determine efficacy of the 6-minute walk test as a stimulus for release of these hormones. Methods Study participants were 9 women and 9 men with normal left ventricular ejection fraction (>50%) and CHD confirmed by arteriography. Data were collected under resting conditions, and after the 6-minute walk test, in the general clinical research center of a northeastern university medical center. Results Basal plasma vasopressin (VP) concentration was significantly higher in men than in women ( P = .018). Exercise, for women and men combined, significantly increased atrial natriuretic peptide ( P P = .04), norepinephrine ( P P = .038) but not plasma renin activity ( P = .09). No further gender differences were detected for basal levels, or for the magnitude of exercise-induced increases, for any of the hormones measured. Conclusions The 6-minute walk test is an exercise of sufficient intensity and duration to initiate the release of hormones associated with sympathetic activation and fluid-electrolyte regulation in both women and men with CHD. It appears that a gender difference was detected only for basal VP levels.
Abundance trends of American martens in Michigan based on statistical population reconstruction

ABSTRACT Estimating the dynamics of furbearer populations is challenging because their elusive behavior and low densities make observations difficult. Statistical population reconstruction is a flexible approach to demographic assessment for harvested populations, but the technique has not been applied to furbearers. We extended this approach to furbearers and analyzed 8 yr of age-at-harvest data for American marten (Martes americana) in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Marten abundance estimates showed a general downward trend from an estimate of = 1,733.3 ( = 861.3) animals in 2000 to =1,163.9 ( = 520.1) in 2007. The harvest probability of martens increased nearly 5-fold from 0.0542 ( = 0.0250) in 2000 to 0.2637 ( = 0.1154) in 2007, which corresponded to a 5-fold increase in trap-nights. Continued monitoring of martens in the Upper Peninsula, Michigan, and a reassessment of current harvest regulations are necessary given the estimated decreases. Moreover, we do not encourage the use of harvest indices a...
Ultraviolet irradiation‐induces epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) nuclear translocation in human keratinocytes

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays a critical role in mediating ultraviolet (UV) irradiation-induced signal transduction and gene expression in human keratinocytes. EGFR activation results from increased phosphorylation on specific tyrosine residues in the C-terminal intracellular domain. It has recently been reported that following growth factor stimulation EGFR translocates from the surface membrane to the nucleus, where it may directly regulate gene transcription. We have investigated the ability of UV irradiation to induce EGFR nuclear translocation in human primary and HaCaT keratinocytes. UV irradiation caused rapid nuclear translocation of EGFR. Significant accumulation of EGFR in the nucleus was observed within 15 min after UV irradiation exposure. Maximal translocation occurred at 30 min post-UV irradiation, and resulted in a 10-fold increase in EGFR in the nucleus, as determined by Western blot analysis of nuclear extracts and confirmed by immunofluorescence. Inhibition of nuclear export by Leptomycin B did not alter UV irradiation-induced nuclear accumulation. EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (PD169540) reduced UV irradiation-induced EGFR nuclear translocation 50%. Mutation of either tyrosine 1148 or tyrosine 1173 reduced nuclear translocation 70%, while mutation of tyrosine 1068 was without effect. In addition, over-expression of receptor type protein tyrosine phosphatase-kappa (RPTP-kappa), which specifically dephosphorylates EGFR tyrosines, decreased UV irradiation-induced EGFR nuclear translocation in human keratinocytes. These data demonstrate that UV irradiation stimulates rapid EGFR nuclear translocation, which is dependent on phosphorylation of specific EGFR tyrosine residues. EGFR nuclear translocation may act in concert with conventional signaling pathways to mediate UV irradiation-induced responses in human keratinocytes.
microRNAs That Promote or Inhibit Memory Formation in Drosophila melanogaster

microRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. Prior studies have shown that they regulate numerous physiological processes critical for normal development, cellular growth control, and organismal behavior. Here, we systematically surveyed 134 different miRNAs for roles in olfactory learning and memory formation using “sponge” technology to titrate their activity broadly in the Drosophila melanogaster central nervous system. We identified at least five different miRNAs involved in memory formation or retention from this large screen, including miR-9c, miR-31a, miR-305, miR-974, and miR-980. Surprisingly, the titration of some miRNAs increased memory, while the titration of others decreased memory. We performed more detailed experiments on two miRNAs, miR-974 and miR-31a, by mapping their roles to subpopulations of brain neurons and testing the functional involvement in memory of potential mRNA targets through bioinformatics and a RNA interference knockdown approach. This screen offers an important first step toward the comprehensive identification of all miRNAs and their potential targets that serve in gene regulatory networks important for normal learning and memory.
Custom spectral shaping for EMI reduction in electronic ballasts

This paper presents the use of frequency modulation (FM) as a spread spectrum technique to reduce EMI caused by high frequency electronic ballasts. Amplitude modulation (AM) effects due to ballast dynamics are counteracted by the use of uniquely shaped modulating waveforms, resulting in the elimination of power spectral density (PSD) distortion and reduced peak currents and component stress. A 12-15dB signal reduction is achieved to comply with typical FCC chimney requirements.