cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Connection Between Radiation Belt and Auroral Processes

The aurora with its associated electric fields and energetic particles affects the structure of the ionosphere, plasmaphere, and ring current. It injects protons and heavier ions (He +, O +) into the magnetosphere which can yield energy to or absorb energy from the ring current and plasmasphere via electromagnetic ion-cyclotron interactions. Its parallel electric fields are determined by perpendicular convection electric fields, which may (on a sufficiently long time scale) be themselves strongly affected by the ring current. We briefly review some of these connections, with emphasis on the relationship between parallel potential drops and the gross convection pattern.
The Mg2+ requirements for rho transcription termination factor: catalysis and bicyclomycin inhibition.

Kinetic studies document that the essential Escherichia coli transcription termination factor rho utilizes Mg2+ and ATP as a substrate and requires a second Mg2+ ion for maximum poly(C)-dependent ATP hydrolysis activity. The velocity curves show a classic nonessential Mg2+ activation pattern in which Mg2+ augments hydrolysis by 39% and gives a K1‘ for MgATP of 9.5 μM in the presence of excess Mg2+ and a K1 for MgATP of 21.2 μM under limiting Mg2+ concentrations. Bicyclomycin (1), a commercial antibiotic that inhibits rho, weakened Mg2+ binding at the nonessential site and disrupted the nonessential Mg2+ activation pathway for poly(C)-dependent ATP hydrolysis. The Ki values for 1 were 23 μM and 35 μM under excess and limiting Mg2+ conditions, respectively, while the KMg(app) for nonessential Mg2+ increased with increasing 1 concentrations. These findings, when combined with reported mechanistic studies, provide an emerging picture of key catalytic and substrate binding sites that are necessary for rho func...
Developing dynamic models for the 2030 Eastern Interconnection grid

The Eastern Interconnection Planning Collaborative (EIPC) has established three major power flow cases for the 2030 Eastern Interconnection (EI) grid based on various levels of energy and environmental policies, technology advances, and load growth. This paper documents the procedures of developing 2030 EI dynamic models using parameters from the Multiregional Modeling Working Group (MMWG) model and using the generic models. The constructed model is validated indirectly using the synchronized phasor measurement by displacing wind machines with conventional generators.
Chiral symmetry breaking in Langmuir monolayers and smectic films.

Langmuir monolayers and freely suspended smectic films can exhibit a spontaneous breaking of chiral symmetry. The order parameter that characterizes this symmetry breaking is coupled to variations in the direction of molecular tilt. As a result, chiral symmetry breaking leads to the spontaneous formation of complex equilibrium patterns with either 1D or 2D modifications in the direction of molecular tilt. A Landau theory for this pattern formation gives a general phase diagram, which includes a uniform nonchiral phase, a striped pattern, a square lattice, and a uniform chiral phase.
Chinese online consumers' responses to web-based data collection efforts: A comparison with American online consumers

More and more businesses are trying to build customer database for relationship marketing by collecting data from customers surfing the World Wide Web. Given the substantial resource investment and the global nature of World Wide Web, there is a need for empirical studies on the effectiveness and cross-cultural impact of the online data collection effort. This study attempts to find out the responses to Web-based data collection by Chinese Internet users and the possible factors influencing consumer willingness to participate Web-based surveys. The reasons for answering or not answering the Web survey questions were investigated and compared between groups of gender and occupation. The results are also compared with those found from an American sample.
Combinatorial transcriptional interaction within the cardiac neural crest: A pair of HANDs in heart formation

The cardiac neural crest cells migrate from the rostral dorsal neural folds and populate the branchial arches, which contribute directly to the cardiac-outflow structures. Although neural crest cell specification is associated with a number of morphogenic factors, little is understood about the mechanisms by which transcription factors actually implement the transcriptional programs that dictate cell migration and later the differentiation into the proper cell types within the great vessels and the heart. It is clear from genetic evidence that members of the paired box family and basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors from the twist family of proteins are expressed in and play an important function in cardiac neural crest specification and differentiation. Interestingly, both paired box and bHLH factors can function as dimers and, in the case of twist family bHLH factors, partner choice can clearly dictate a change in transcriptional program. The focus of this review is to consider what role the protein-protein interactions of these transcription factors may play in determining cardiac neural crest specification and differentiation, and how genetic alteration of transcription factor stoichiometry within the cell may reflect more than a simple null event.
Characterization of Vitamin D insensitive prostate cancer cells.

The antitumor effects of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol) are being exploited for prevention and treatment of prostate cancer (CaP). These studies examined antitumor effects of calcitriol in primary cell cultures derived from transgenic adenocarcinoma of mouse prostate (TRAMP) mice chronically treated with calcitriol (20μg/kg) or vehicle 3x/week (MWF) from 4 weeks-of-age until palpable tumors developed. This is a report on the response of 2 representative control (vitamin D naive, naive) and calcitriol-treated (vitamin D insensitive, VDI) cells to calcitriol. VDI cells were less sensitive to calcitriol based on less cell growth inhibition and less inhibition of DNA synthesis as measured by MTT and BrdU incorporation assays. Similarly, VDI cells were also less sensitive to growth inhibition by the vitamin analog, 19-nor-1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D2 (paricalcitol). There was no change in apoptosis following treatment of naive and VDI cells with calcitriol. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) expression was up-regulated by calcitriol in both naive and VDI cells. Calcitriol induced the vitamin D metabolizing enzyme, 24-hydroxylase (cyp24) mRNA and enzyme activity similarly in naive and VDI cells as measured by RT-PCR and HPLC respectively. In summary, VDI cells are less responsive to the antiproliferative effects of calcitriol. Understanding vitamin D insensitivity will further clinical development of vitamin D compounds for prevention and treatment of CaP.
A genetic mosaic in the fruiting stage of Armillaria gallica.

Peabody, R. B., Peabody, D. C., and Sicard, K. M. 2000. A genetic mosaic in the fruiting stage of Armillaria gallica. The basidiome stage of Armillaria gallica can be a genetic mosaic. Ten cells isolated from a single basidiome in 1986 produced nine different genotypes when analyzed for variation at six nuclear loci. Four additional basidiomes collected in 1986 produced mosaic patterns when analyzed for variation at a single nuclear (PCR-RFLP) locus. One basidiome collected in 1993 was not a genetic mosaic because 15 cells isolated from it produced only one genotype when analyzed for six nuclear loci. Two hundred seventy-four samples collected in the field between 1981 and 1998 were analyzed for variation at the PCR-RFLP locus. Samples collected prior to 1988 produced patterns consistent with the existence of mosaicism, but samples collected after 1988 showed no evidence of mosaicism. Genetic mosaicism represents a novel mechanism for partitioning genotypes among the cells of a basidiomycete and has interesting implications for the biology of A. gallica.
Vascular smooth muscle cell-derived adiponectin: A paracrine regulator of contractile phenotype

Adiponectin is a cardioprotective adipokine derived predominantly from visceral fat. We recently demonstrated that exogenous adiponectin induces vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) differentiation via repression of mTORC1 and FoxO4. Here we report for the first time that VSMC express and secrete adiponectin, which acts in an autocrine and paracrine manner to regulate VSMC contractile phenotype. Adiponectin was found to be expressed in human coronary artery and mouse aortic VSMC. Importantly, siRNA knock-down of endogenous adiponectin in VSMC significantly reduced the expression of VSMC contractile proteins. Contractile protein deficiency was also observed in primary VSMC isolated from Adiponectin(-/-) mice. This deficiency could be rescued by culturing Adiponectin(-/-) VSMC in conditioned media from wild type (WT) VSMC. Moreover, the paracrine effect of VSMC-derived adiponectin was confirmed as adiponectin neutralizing antibody blocked the rescue. Overexpressed adiponectin also exerted paracrine effects on neighboring untransfected VSMC, which was also blocked by adiponectin neutralizing antibody. Interestingly, adiponectin expression was inducible by the PPARγ agonist rosiglitazone. Our data support an important role for VSMC-derived adiponectin in maintaining VSMC contractile phenotype, contributing to critical cardioprotective functions in the vascular wall. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Local Signaling in Myocytes".
Chronically administered morphine increases dopamine receptor sensitivity in mice.

Abstract Chronic morphine treatment has been suggested to cause the development of supersensitive dopamine receptors. This increase in sensitivity was detected as a hypersensitivity in direct-acting dopamine agonists and as an increase in the affinity of dopamine receptors. However, these binding studies were performed in animals which had been withdrawn from morphine for a period of 24–48 h prior to killing. In the present study mice were implanted with pellets containing 75 mg of morphine free base. The pellets were left in situ in all experiments. One group of mice exhibited an increased sensitivity to apomorphine 72 h following pellet implantation as evidenced by a decrease in the ED 50 of apomorphine for inducing cage climbing behavior. A second matched group of mice was found to have a significant increase in whole brain [ 3 H]spiroperidol binding sites. These results suggest that chronic morphine treatment can cause the development of central supersensitive dopamine receptors. Lithium administered concurrently with the morphine attenuated the increased sensitivity to apomorphine and the increase in the number of [ 3 H]spiroperidol binding sites. Concurrent lithium treatment also facilitated the degree of analgesic tolerance, and naloxone-induced withdrawal hypothermia. The ability of lithium to enhance analgesic tolerance while simultaneously attenuating the increase in dopamine receptors suggests that alterations in dopamine receptors might modify the degree of analgesic tolerance which develops to chronic morphine administration, or might modify the animal's response to thermal stimuli. The mechanism by which lithium enhanced naloxone-induced hypothermia is presently unknown.
A method for the rapid processing of thermoplastic articles

A new method for increasing the productivity of molded polymeric articles and a new kind of molding material are described. This process eliminates the heating and cooling time associated with the conventional injection molding process. Polymeric granules with heterogeneous dielectric loss characteristics are used so that during dielectric heating the surfaces of the granules melt and fuse. During cooling, the heat flows from the shell of each granule to the core, rendering the article rigid almost immediately. An analysis is done which shows that this process is feasible. Based on the analytical results, the material requirements are specified. Experimental results confirm the theoretical predictions and the viability of the basic concept. Heating and cooling are accomplished in a time period of the order of 1 sec.
Prevention of apomorphine- or cisplatin-induced emesis in the dog by a combination of methylnaltrexone and morphine

Purpose: Morphine can have either an emetic or an antiemetic effect. The emetic effect of morphine can be blocked by methylnaltrexone (MNTX), a quaternary opioid antagonist with peripheral action. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that administering MNTX to block the peripheral emetic effect of morphine would unmask the central antiemetic effect of the morphine. The net result, we hypothesized, would be a reduction in apomorphine- or cisplatin-induced emesis. Methods: MNTX 0.25 mg/kg and morphine 1 mg/kg were administered to conscious dogs which were then challenged with the potent emetic agents apomorphine or cisplatin. Emesis was assessed by the presence of characteristic retching motions accompanied by the regurgitation of gastric contents. Results: We observed that apomorphine challenges of 0.1 mg/kg and of 0.03 mg/kg produced 100% emesis in control animals. After pretreatment with MNTX and morphine, the frequency of emesis with the larger dose of apomorphine was reduced to 50% and with the smaller dose to 22%. MNTX alone did not block apomorphine-induced emesis. In animals challenged with cisplatin 3 mg/kg, the emetic response was 100%. Emesis did not occur in animals pretreated with MNTX 0.25 mg/kg and morphine 1 mg/kg before cisplatin. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that MNTX combined with morphine reduces apomorphine-induced emesis and blocks cisplatin-induced emesis. These results support the hypothesis that the emetic effect of morphine is peripheral and its antiemetic action is central. In combination, MNTX and morphine may have a clinical role in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced emesis.
Studies on the repression of β-galactosidase in Escherichia coli

The mechanism of catabolite repression has been tested in mutants of Escherichia coli and a mutant of Aerobacter aerogenes, JF-4, using the technique of nutrient limitation. Two distinct types of enzyme control have been identified: (1) a control which is antagonized by inducer and is called “inducer-specific repression”; and (2) a control which is independent of the concentration of inducer and is called “inducer-independent represseion”. A metho of analysis is employed which allows each of the two types of repression to be measured quantitavely. The restriction of catabolic activities leads to derepression while the restriction of anabolic activities leads to repression; however, the relative change in inducer-specific and inducer-independent repression are not the same. Carbon limitation leads to a preferential decrease in inducer-specific repression while nitrogen and sulfur limitation lead to a preferential increase in inducer-independent repression.
Is feeling pain just mindreading? Our mind-brain constructs realistic knowledge of ourselves

Carruthers claims that “our knowledge of our own attitudes results from turning our mindreading capacities upon ourselves” (target article, Abstract). This may be true in many cases. But like other constructivist claims, it fails to explain occasions when constructed knowledge is accurate, like a well-supported scientific theory. People can know their surrounding world and to some extent themselves. Accurate self-knowledge is firmly established for both somatosensory and social pain.
Model dependence of charge densities determined from electron scattering

Abstract A new method is used to analyze recent experiments on electron scattering on 3He in the high momentum transfer region. The accuracy of the new measurements is very high so that the charge density can be determined with much higher accuracy than before. We find that further reduction of the error in charge density can only be achieved by a more accurate measurement of the region 3
Cyclic voltammetry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies of electrochemical stability of clean and Pt-modified tungsten and molybdenum carbide (WC and Mo2C) electrocatalysts

Abstract The electrochemical stability of tungsten carbide (WC), Pt-modified WC, molybdenum carbide (Mo 2 C), and Pt-modified Mo 2 C has been examined using an in situ electrochemical half-cell in combination with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The WC surface, created via the carburization of a tungsten foil, was electrochemically stable to ∼0.8 V with respect to the normal hydrogen electrode (NHE) when exposed to dilute sulfuric acid. At higher potentials, XPS confirmed the surface oxidation of WC to form W x O y species. The deposition of submonolayer coverage of Pt on the WC surface increased the region of stability of WC, extending the onset of catalyst oxidation to ∼1.0 V (NHE). These results suggest that both WC and Pt/WC have the potential to be used as anode electrocatalysts. In contrast, both Mo 2 C and Pt-modified Mo 2 C underwent oxidation at ∼0.4 V (NHE), indicating that molybdenum carbides are not stable enough for applications as anode electrocatalysts.
Total Syntheses of (+)-Vigulariol and (−)-Sclerophytin A

The total syntheses of (+)-vigulariol and (−)-sclerophytin A are reported in 15 steps and 16 steps, respectively, from a known compound. The flexible, readily scalable synthetic strategy allows for rapid construction of a critical tricyclic intermediate and is demonstrated via the synthesis of these two marine natural products. A key reaction in this synthetic protocol is a combination Wittig/intramolecular Diels–Alder cycloaddition.
Ni Substrate Processing Using In-Vacuo Wafer Transfer To Integrate Surface Characterization, Surface Cleaning, And Ni-Cu Epitaxial Alloy Growth

Due to the rapid oxidation of metal surfaces, in vacuo preparation of metal substrates is needed to provide suitable growth surfaces. Surface characterization of the metal substrates or the subsequent epitaxial metal growths must also be performed under ultrahigh vacuum conditions. Transfers of the metal samples from preparation to growth to characterization facilities must be in vacuo to protect the highly reactive surfaces. This work has been performed with an in vacuo transfer system integrating a two-stage load lock, a remote plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition chamber, a substrate preparation facility, a metals molecular beam epitaxy chamber, and a surface analysis system. This integrated process facility will be described with particular attention to the effects of sample preparation on the subsequent metals growth. Processing with the integrated facility has resulted in the growth of epitaxial metal films, alloys, multilayers, and superlattices. Processing with only in situ wafer processing has resulted in only textured polycrystalline growths. The metals molecular beam epitaxy system of the integrated facility will be described with special emphasis on epitaxial growths of metal thin films, alloys, multilayers, and superlattices from the Cu-Ni system.
Targeting the Inverted CCAAT Box 2 in the Topoisomerase IIα Promoter by JH-37, an Imidazole−Pyrrole Polyamide Hairpin: Design, Synthesis, Molecular Biology, and Biophysical Studies†

The topoisomerase IIalpha promoter is regulated through transcription factor interactions with five inverted CCAAT boxes (ICBs). In confluent cancer cells, binding of nuclear factor Y to ICB2 represses the expression of this gene, contributing to resistance to topoisomerase II poisons. The ICB sites within the topoisomerase IIa promoter are, therefore, potential targets for the design of anticancer drugs and gene control agents. The synthesis and DNA binding properties of a hairpin polyamide molecule (JH-37) that targets 5'-TTGGT-3' found in ICB2 and ICB3 sites are described. Gel shift and DNase I footprinting studies on the topoisomerase IIa promoter showed JH-37 to preferentially bind to ICB2,3 and ICB 1 sites. The larger DeltaT(M) values for ICB2,3 (8-9 degreesC) over ICB 1,4,5 (4-5 degreesC) indicated a preference of JH-37 for ICB2,3. CD titration studies confirmed the binding of JH-37 to the minor groove, with a 1:1 binding stoichiometry. Results from SPR studies showed JH-37 to bind most strongly to ICB2 (K = 3 x 10(7) M-1), followed by ICB1, the non-ICB sequence (TGCA), and finally the ICB mutant (ICB2m). The improved binding to ICB2 is largely due to a lower dissociation rate of the compound at the preferred site. To our knowledge, this is the first example on the use of SPR for studying the interactions of hairpin polyamides with DNA. Binding of JH-37 to ICB2 was corroborated by ITC studies, in which the DeltaGdegrees of binding is driven by both enthalpy and entropy. With knowledge of the fundamental thermodynamic and kinetic properties that govern the molecular recognition of polyamides with DNA, we are poised to systematically edit the structure of JH-37 in order to further enhance its binding affinity and selectivity for ICB2,3. Our strategy for designing molecules that control gene expression is to target shorter, but multiple, binding sites that are in close array within the promoter. Binding of JH-37 to multiple ICB sites in the topoisomerase IIa promoter is an ideal test for this strategy. This approach is in contrast to the traditional strategy of targeting 15-16 base pairs, which has not been successful in actual biological systems due to poor cell uptake and distribution.
A Functional Comparison of the 3xP3 Promoter by Recombinase-Mediated Cassette Exchange in Drosophila and a Tephritid Fly, Anastrepha suspensa.

Transposable elements are widely used as vectors for integrating transgenes into the genome of insects. However, the random nature of transposon vector integrations often results in mutations and makes transgene expression subject to variable genomic position effects. This makes reliable quantitative comparisons of different transgenes difficult and development of highly fit transgenic strains laborious. Tools for site-specific transgene targeting are essential for functional genomic comparisons and to develop the most advanced transgenic insect strains for applied use. Here we describe a recombinase-mediated cassette exchange gene targeting system based on Cre/loxP that is highly efficient in Drosophila, and for the first time in a non-drosophilid, the tephritid fly, Anastrepha suspensa. This system allowed a comparison of the Drosophila constitutive polyubiquitin promoter and the artificial 3xP3 tissue-specific promoter in the same genomic context within each species, showing that the widely used 3xP3 promoter is apparently nonfunctional in the tephritid fly.
Solution combustion synthesis and luminescent properties of perovskite red phosphors with higher CRI and greater lumen output

Abstract Two perovskite red phosphors, (La 0.96 Eu 0.04 )AlO 3 and (Y 0.96 Eu 0.04 )AlO 3 have been obtained by solution combustion method at 525 °C in less than 5 min. Formation of these phosphors has been characterized by powder XRD and luminescent properties. High exothermicity of the combustion process is sufficient enough for the formation and crystallization of the red phosphors. Luminescent properties of these red phosphors are quite different from other red phosphors.
Use of a "hybrid" locking plate for complex metaphyseal fractures and nonunions about the humerus.

Abstract Purpose To review one surgeon's experience with a novel type of “hybrid” locking plate (which has both 3.5 mm and 4.5 mm locking holes) for difficult fractures of the meta-diaphyseal humeral shaft. Methods Over a 2-year period, 24 patients who presented with a metaphyseal humeral fracture or nonunion (proximal or distal) were treated surgically by a single surgeon. A “hybrid” locking plate containing 3.5 mm locking holes on one end and 4.5 mm locking holes on the other end (Metaphyseal plate, Synthes, Paoli, Pa) was used in all patients. The selection of this implant was based on fracture location and bone quality. Fractures were operated on through an anterolateral or direct posterior approach. All fractures were secured with a minimum of three 4.5 mm screws on one side of the fracture and three 3.5 mm screws on the other side. All patients were treated with a similar post-operative protocol for early range of shoulder and elbow motion. Results Three patients were lost to follow-up. The cohort consisted of 15 women and 6 men with a mean age of 49 years (range 18–78). There were 14 acute fractures and 7 nonunions. Twelve fractures involved the distal metaphyseal segment and 9 involved the proximal metaphyseal segment. Twenty-two patients completed a minimum 6-month clinical and radiographic follow-up and form the basis for this report. All 21 patients healed their fractures or nonunions at a mean of 4.5 months. There were no infections or hardware failures. In every case the “hybrid” nature of the plate design was felt to be advantageous. Conclusion This “second generation” metaphyseal locking plate, which affords the surgeon the ability to place a greater number of smaller calibre screws within a short bone segment, while using traditional large fragment screw fixation in the longer segment, is clearly an improvement in plate design. Meta-diaphyseal upper extremity long bones may serve as the most ideal location for this implant.
Adult Romantic Attachment and Couple Conflict Behaviors: Intimacy as a Multi-Dimensional Mediator

This study investigated associations between adult romantic attachment and couples’ conflict behaviors and the potential mediating role of intimacy. A community sample of 74 couples reported on their attachment security style on the Attachment Style Measure (ASM) (Simpson, 1990) and on multiple dimensions of intimacy on the Personal Assessment of Intimacy in Relationships (PAIR) (Schaefer & Olson, 1981). Couples’ conflict behaviors were assessed via behavioral observations and coded for positive and negative dimensions of conflict. Path analyses indicated numerous actor and partner effects in the links between attachment, intimacy, and conflict. For men, both avoidant and anxious attachment styles were predictive of their own and their partner’s intimacy. For women though, both secure and avoidant attachment styles were predictive of their own and their partner’s intimacy. For men, all domains of intimacy were predictive of their own or their partner’s conflict behaviors. For women, only emotional intimacy was predictive of conflict behaviors. All domains of men’s intimacy emerged as significant mediators of associations between attachment and couples’ conflict behaviors. For women, only emotional intimacy mediated these associations. Implications for the treatment of relationally-discordant couples are discussed.
Modulation of the diurnal cycle of tropical deep convective clouds by the MJO

[1] The infrared cloud amount with cloud tops above 180 hPa from the International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project D1 cloud product and the Tropical Rainfall Measurement Mission 3B42 precipitation product are employed to study the impact of the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) on the diurnal cycle of tropical deep convective cloud amount (DCC). Our analysis demonstrates that the diurnal cycle of tropical DCC is enhanced over both land and water during the convectively active phase of the MJO, while it is reduced during the convectively suppressed phase of the MJO. However, the diurnal phase of DCC is not significantly affected by the MJO. The analysis also indicates that the MJO modulation of the diurnal amplitude is much larger over the eastern Indian Ocean (around 50% of the mean diurnal amplitude) than over the western Pacific and the Maritime Continents (around 20% of the mean diurnal amplitude).
Conditional Ablation of Astroglial CCL2 Suppresses CNS Accumulation of M1 Macrophages and Preserves Axons in Mice with MOG Peptide EAE

Current multiple sclerosis (MS) therapies only partially prevent chronically worsening neurological deficits, which are largely attributable to progressive loss of CNS axons. Prior studies of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) induced in C57BL/6 mice by immunization with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein peptide 35–55 (MOG peptide), a model of MS, documented continued axon loss for months after acute CNS inflammatory infiltrates had subsided, and massive astroglial induction of CCL2 (MCP-1), a chemokine for CCR2+ monocytes. We now report that conditional deletion of astroglial CCL2 significantly decreases CNS accumulation of classically activated (M1) monocyte-derived macrophages and microglial expression of M1 markers during the initial CNS inflammatory phase of MOG peptide EAE, reduces the acute and long-term severity of clinical deficits and slows the progression of spinal cord axon loss. In addition, lack of astroglial-derived CCL2 results in increased accumulation of Th17 cells within the CNS in these mice, but also in greater confinement of CD4+ lymphocytes to CNS perivascular spaces. These findings suggest that therapies designed to inhibit astroglial CCL2-driven trafficking of monocyte-derived macrophages to the CNS during acute MS exacerbations have the potential to significantly reduce CNS axon loss and slow progression of neurological deficits.
Clinical significance of molecular expression profiles of Hürthle cell tumors of the thyroid gland analyzed via tissue microarrays.

Hurthle cell tumors are rare thyroid neoplasms for which disease biology is poorly understood and diagnosis of carcinoma can be challenging. The aim of the study was to characterize molecular expression profiles of Hurthle cell tumors and to determine the clinical significance of identified phenotypes. Paraffin-embedded tissue cores of normal thyroid ( n = 18), and histopathologically well-defined Hurthle cell adenomas ( n = 27), Hurthle cell tumors of unknown malignant behavior ( n = 7), and minimally ( n = 14) and widely ( n = 21) invasive Hurthle cell carcinomas were arrayed in triplicate on tissue microarrays. Expression profiles of p53, mdm-2, p21, Bcl-2, cyclin D1, and Ki-67 were detected by immunohistochemistry and correlated with clinicopathological data and patient outcome using standard statistical methodology. Median follow-up time was 8 years. High Ki-67 proliferative index was evident only in the clinically aggressive widely invasive Hurthle cell carcinomas and was associated with significantly reduced relapse-free ( P = 0.001) and disease-specific ( P P = 0.04) and disease-specific survival ( P = 0.01) in widely invasive carcinomas and the Ki-67(+)/Bcl-2(−) phenotype was associated with the diagnosis of widely invasive Hurthle cell carcinoma ( P
Radiation Responses of Perfused Tracheal Tissue

Abstract Ford, J. F., Maslowski, A. J., Redd, R. A. and Braby, L. A. Radiation Responses of Perfused Tracheal Tissue. Radiat. Res. 164, 487–492 (2005). We are using a novel perfusion system to examine the effects of radiation on a model respiratory tissue. Tracheas taken from young adult male Fischer 344 rats are embedded in a growth factor-enriched agarose matrix that is mounted in a special apparatus designed to allow growth medium to periodically wash the epithelial surface of the lumen. A comparison of the microarray expression profiles of freshly harvested tracheas and tracheas maintained in perfusion culture for 24 h shows no significant difference except for an increase in expression of a few metabolism- and surfactant-related genes. Perfusion culture samples exposed to 4 Gy of X rays show a lower than expected increase in expression for some cell cycle- and repair-related genes.
MicroRNAs 125a and 455 repress lipoprotein-supported steroidogenesis by targeting scavenger receptor class B type I in steroidogenic cells

We sought to identify and characterize microRNA (miRNAs) that posttranscriptionally regulate the expression of scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI) and SR-BI-linked selective high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesteryl ester (CE) transport and steroidogenesis. Four miRNAs (miRNA-125a, miRNA-125b, miRNA-145, and miRNA-455) with a potential to regulate SR-BI were identified in silico and validated by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), Western blot analysis, and SR-BI 3' untranslated region (UTR) reporter assays. In vitro treatment of primary rat granulosa cells and MLTC-1 cells with cyclic AMP (cAMP) or in vivo treatment of rat adrenals with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) decreased the expression of miRNA-125a, miRNA-125b, and miRNA-455 and reciprocally increased SR-BI expression. Using luciferase constructs containing the 3' untranslated region of SR-BI combined with miRNA overexpression and mutagenesis, we have provided evidence that steroidogenic SR-BI is a direct target of miRNA-125a and miRNA-455. Moreover, the transfection of Leydig tumor cells with precursor miRNA 125a (pre-miRNA-125a) or pre-miRNA-455 resulted in the suppression of SR-BI at both the transcript and protein levels and reduced selective HDL CE uptake and HDL-stimulated progesterone production. Transfection of liver Hepa 1-6 cells with pre-miRNA-125a significantly reduced SR-BI expression and its selective transport function. In contrast, overexpression of miRNA-145 did not affect SR-BI expression or selective HDL CE uptake mediated by SR-BI in steroidogenic cell lines. These data suggest that a trophic hormone and cAMP inversely regulate the expression of SR-BI and miRNA-125a and miRNA-455 in steroidogenic tissues/cells and that both miRNA-125a and miRNA-455, by targeting steroidogenic SR-BI, negatively regulate selective HDL CE uptake and HDL CE-supported steroid hormone production.
Effects of sodium, potassium and calcium on salt-stressed barley. II. Elemental analysis

Cramer, G. R., Epstein, E. and Lauchli, A. 1991. Effects of sodium, potassium apdcalcium on salt-stressed barley. !I. Elemental analysis. - Physiol. Plant. 81; 197-202.We grew bariey (Hordeum vulgare L. CM 72) for a 28-day period and sequentiallyharvested plants every 3 or 4 days. Plants were salt-stressed with either NaCI or KCl(125 mM) with or without supplemental Ca (10 or 0,4 mM final concentration,respectively). We determined tissue concentrations of Na, Ca, Mg, K, S, P, Fe, Mn,Cu and Zn for each harvest date by inductively coupled plasma spectrometry. Uptake(specific absorption rate) was calculated from the element content and growth rates.Salinity had significant effects on the uptake and concentrations of most elements.Mg and Mn concentrations declined with time. The concentrations of all otherelements determined increased over time. Element uptake on a root dry weight basisdeclined with time. Three variables were significantly affected by salinity and corre-lated with growth; 1) the Ca concentration, 2) the total sum of the cation concentra-tion (TC), and 3) the Mn concentration of the shoot. Salinity reduced Ca uptake andconcentrations. Supplemental Ca increased Ca concentrations and was positivelycorrelated with growth during salt stress. Salinity doubled TC, which was negativelycorrelated with relative growth rate (RGR), Relative growth rate declined at TCvalues above 150 mM. Salinity reduced the uptake and concentration of Mn. Manga-nese concentrations in the shoot were highly correlated with RGR. Relative growthrate declined at Mn concentrations below 50 nmol (g fresh weight) ',Key words - Barley, Ca, Hordeum vulgare, K, Mn, Na, Na-Ca interactions, salinity,uptake.G, R, Cramer (corresponding author), Dept of Ptant Science, Univ, of Nevada, Reno,NV 89557, USA; E. Epstein and A. Lauchli, Dept of Land, Air and Water Resources,Univ, of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
A decomposition approach to distributed analysis of networked systems

We present a simple distributed algorithm for analyzing well-posedness and stability of a system composed of different sub-units, interconnected over an arbitrary graph. The procedure consists in solving a set of coupled linear matrix inequalities via a subgradient method, with primal decomposition. The proposed algorithm can be implemented in parallel on the system's graph and should prove more efficient than conventional semidefinite programming solvers, for very large systems with a high number of states and interconnection variables.
Transcriptional regulation by Pho23 modulates the frequency of autophagosome formation.

Summary Background Autophagy as a conserved lysosomal/vacuolar degradation and recycling pathway is important in normal development and physiology, and defects in this process are linked to many kinds of disease. Because too much or too little autophagy can be detrimental, the process must be tightly regulated both temporally and in magnitude. Two parameters that affect this regulation are the size and the number of autophagosomes; however, although we know that the amount of Atg8 affects the size of autophagosomes, the mechanism for regulating their number has not been elucidated. The transcriptional induction and repression of the autophagy-related ( ATG ) genes is one crucial aspect of autophagy regulation, but the transcriptional regulators that modulate autophagy are not well characterized. Results We detected increased expression levels of ATG genes, and elevated autophagy activity, in cells lacking the transcriptional regulator Pho23. Using transmission electron microscopy, we found that PHO23 null mutant cells contain significantly more autophagosomes than the wild-type. By RNA sequencing transcriptome profiling, we identified ATG9 as one of the key targets of Pho23, and our studies with strains expressing modulated levels of Atg9 show that the amount of this protein directly correlates with the frequency of autophagosome formation and the level of autophagy activity. Conclusions Our results identified Pho23 as a master transcriptional repressor for autophagy that regulates the frequency of autophagosome formation through its negative regulation of ATG9 .
Efficient simulation of bipolar digital ICs

High-pe rfornz n n ce logic circuitry for m ai nfra 111. e co m pulers is most comin~only ainpleittenled in the bipolar emitter- coupled logic (E CYL) fa m,il y. Bi CMOS c ircuits are becoming increasingly common 21, digital applications. Th.e simulation of such. clrcuiis wiih n general purpose circuit nn,alysis fool is zwry conrpuieintemive. This paper presents an e ficient sinrulatioti methodology for ECL bipolar designs. By nsing an even,t-driven schen1.c to exploit th,e underlying latency in the circuit and by using simplified device models, eficienf sineiilnfion is a.ccoinplished ,iohile stnying within tolerable error bouiids.
Fixed points and stability in differential equations with variable delays

Abstract In this paper we consider a linear scalar differential equation with variable delays and give conditions to ensure that the zero solution is asymptotically stable by means of fixed point theory. These conditions do not require the boundedness of delays, nor do they ask for a fixed sign on the coefficient functions. An asymptotic stability theorem with a necessary and sufficient condition is proved.
Self-consistent solutions to the equation of transfer with elastic and inelastic scattering in oceanic optics: I. Model

A new self-consistent two-stream method has been developed that allows for both elastic and inelastic processes including fluorescence. What makes this method very useful is that it contains adjustable parameters that can be selected to fit experimental data. It also has the robustness to cover a complete range of inherent oceanic parameters ranging from the very clear to the most turbid. The method also uses real solar spectral input so that one can also perform chromaticity coordinate calculations for ocean color. Apparent optical properties such as irradiance and scalar irradiance can be computed at any depth in the ocean.
Consciousness should not mean, but be

O'Brien & Opie's vehicle hypothesis is an attractive framework for the study of consciousness. To fully embrace the hypothesis, however, two of the authors' claims should be extended: first, since phenomenal content is entirely dependent on occurrent brain events and only contingently correlated with external events, it is no longer necessary to regard states of consciousness as representations. Second, the authors' insistence that only stable states of a neural network are conscious seems ad hoc.
Endothelial Cell-Extracellular Matrix Interactions

The role of extracellular matrix as a modulator of cell behavior is widely accepted and is currently under intensive study by a number of investigators using diverse cell, tissue, and organ culture systems.10,34 Several general findings have emerged from this work, namely, that cell behavior is dramatically different when cells are grown and maintained on extracellular matrix as compared to tissue culture plastic or glass; and that cell behavior can be modulated, depending on the composition and organization of the matrix component(s) or tissue used.35 For example, in recent studies Lwebuga-Mukasa et al. have demonstrated that cultured type II pneumocytes exhibit variable behavior patterns, depending on the nature of the underlying matrix on which they are cultured. When cultured on the stromal aspect of the acellular amnionic membrane, these cells appear flattened, having few cytoplasmic lamellar bodies, basolateral junctional complexes, and apical microvilli. In contrast, when cultured on the basement membrane surface of the amnion, they maintain their cuboidal morphology and have abundant microvilli, basolateral junctional complexes, and cytoplasmic lamellar bodies.21,22 Additionally, in both instances the cultured cells produce a basal lamina-like structure. Conversely, when cultured and maintained on an acellular pulmonary basement membrane, these cells do not synthesize a basal lamina. With time they become flattened and attenuated, losing their cytoplasmic lamellar bodies and apical microvilli but maintaining their basolateral junctional complexes, suggesting a “differentiation” into type I pneumocytes.22 As a further example, Ingber et al. have studied the effects of extracellular matrix on the behavior of rat pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells. This tumor exhibits cytodifferentiation in vivo when closely associated with vascular or peritoneal connective tissue, suggesting the possibility
Nlrp3 Inflammasome Activation in Type 2 Diabetes: Is It Clinically Relevant?

Aberrant activation of the innate immune system in metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes has been recognized to be an important mechanism of disease pathogenesis (1–3). Emergence of a chronic proinflammatory state driven by the activation of myeloid lineage innate immune cells, such as macrophages and neutrophils, has been directly linked to the emergence of insulin resistance (4,5). Until recently, the identity of specific innate immune pattern recognition receptors or sensors that recognize diverse metabolic “danger signals” to initiate a proinflammatory cascade during obesity and diabetes was unknown. Pioneering studies from Tschopp and colleagues (6) identified that “inflammasomes,” the multiprotein cytosolic molecular platforms in myeloid cells, can sense damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and control the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 in metabolic stress. Structurally, inflammasomes consist of a Nod-like receptor (NLR), the apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC) adaptor protein, and caspase-1 (6). Several NLR molecules including NLRP1, NLRP3, and NLRC4 control caspase-1 activation, which controls the cleavage and secretion of pro–IL-1β and pro–IL-18 into bioactive cytokines (6). Several studies using genetically modified mice that lack inflammasome components Nlrp3, Asc, and caspase-1 provided initial evidence that activation of the Nlrp3 inflammasome is a key mechanism that induces metabolic inflammation and insulin resistance (7–10). Deactivation of the Nlrp3 inflammasome in obese type 2 diabetic patients that lose excess weight through lifestyle intervention is coupled with improved glucose homeostasis, suggesting that inflammasome may be a clinically relevant mechanism that links inflammation with type 2 diabetes (7). However, there is scant clinical evidence that myeloid cells of type 2 diabetic patients have elevated Nlrp3 inflammasome activation, and it is not clear whether …
Automated shipboard diagnostics and health evaluation for power equipment and systems: advanced techniques developed for terrestrial power systems

Shipboard power distribution systems and their first cousins in the terrestrial world have common fundamental characteristics. They use a variety of interconnected components to transport electrical energy, safely and reliably, from a source of supply to end users and loads. From cables to connectors, from switches to transformers, electric power distribution systems rely on the proper operation of hundreds or even thousands of interconnected components in order to perform this basic function. Failure of a single component or subsystem compromises the integrity of the delivery system as a whole and can have significant widespread ramifications on the rest of the system and on connected loads. For the past several years, Texas A&M University has conducted a major research program aimed at automatically assessing the health of electric power distribution feeders. This program consists of continuously monitoring 60 distribution feeders at eleven electric utility companies located across North America. The goal of the program is to detect incipient faults and operational problems that, if left unchecked, can escalate and cause interruptions, outages, and cascading damage. This paper describes Texas A&Ms research program and provides selected case studies that illustrate some of the benefits being achieved in terrestrial power systems. The techniques involved are applicable and extensible to shipboard power systems.
How Many More Guns? Estimating the Effect of Allowing Licensed Concealed Handguns on a College Campus

Among other arguments, advocates for lifting bans on carrying concealed handguns on campus propose that this would increase the prevalence of legitimately carried handguns, which might then deter crimes or be used to intervene in campus shooting incidents like the one that took place at Virginia Tech in 2007. Opponents suggest that increased prevalence of concealed handguns would lead to increases in other negative consequences, such as accidental shootings. Little empirical research has examined the potential outcomes of such a policy change, nor has existing research examined the prerequisite issue of whether lifting these bans would result in substantial increases in the prevalence of concealed handguns among students. Using a sample of undergraduate classrooms selected from five academic buildings at a public university in Texas, this study examines the potential impact of lifting the concealed handgun ban on the likelihood that a given classroom would contain at least one legally carried handgun. Results reveal that the impact of potential policy changes in this area vary based on the building under consideration and the measure of potential handgun prevalence. Limitations of the study and implications for future research on the issue of concealed handgun carrying on college campuses are discussed.
Composition operators from logarithmic Bloch spaces to weighted Bloch spaces

We characterize the analytic self-maps @f of the unit disk D in C that induce continuous composition operators C"@f from the log-Bloch space B^l^o^g(D) to @m-Bloch spaces B^@m(D) in terms of the sequence of quotients of the @m-Bloch semi-norm of the nth power of @f and the log-Bloch semi-norm of the nth power F"n of the identity function on D, where @m:D->(0,~) is continuous and bounded. We also obtain an expression that is equivalent to the essential norm of C"@f between these spaces, thus characterizing @f such that C"@f is compact. After finding a pairwise norm equivalent family of log-Bloch type spaces that are defined on the unit ball B"n of C^n and include the log-Bloch space, we obtain an extension of our boundedness/compactness/essential norm results for C"@f acting on B^l^o^g to the case when C"@f acts on these more general log-Bloch-type spaces.