cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A single amino acid substitution converts a transmembrane protein activator of the platelet-derived growth factor β receptor into an inhibitor

Receptors for PDGF play an important role in cell proliferation and migration and have been implicated in certain cancers. The 44-amino acid E5 protein of bovine papillomavirus binds to and activates the PDGFβ receptor (PDGFβR), resulting in oncogenic transformation of cultured fibroblasts. Previously, we isolated an artificial 36-amino acid transmembrane protein, pTM36-4, which transforms cells because of its ability to activate the PDGFβR despite limited sequence similarity to E5. Here, we demonstrated complex formation between the PDGFβR and three pTM36-4 mutants: T21E, T21Q, and T21N. T21Q retained wild type transforming activity and activated the PDGFβR in a ligand-independent manner as a consequence of binding to the transmembrane domain of the PDGFβR, but T21E and T21N were severely defective. In fact, T21N substantially inhibited E5-induced PDGFβR activation and transformation in both mouse and human fibroblasts. T21N did not prevent E5 from binding to the receptor, and genetic evidence suggested that T21N and E5 bind to nonidentical sites in the transmembrane domain of the receptor. T21N also inhibited transformation and PDGFβR activation induced by v-Sis, a viral homologue of PDGF-BB, as well as PDGF-induced mitogenesis and signaling by preventing phosphorylation of the PDGFβR at particular tyrosine residues. These results demonstrated that T21N acts as a novel inhibitor of the PDGFβR and validated a new strategy for designing highly specific short transmembrane protein inhibitors of growth factor receptors and possibly other transmembrane proteins.
Inhibition of Sphingosine Kinase-2 in a Murine Model of Lupus Nephritis

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), a potent bioactive lipid, is emerging as a central mediator in inflammation and immune responses. We have previously implicated S1P and its synthetic enzyme sphingosine kinase (SK) in inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Generation of S1P requires phosphorylation of sphingosine by SK, of which there are two isoforms. Numerous studies have implicated SK1 in immune cell trafficking, inflammation and autoimmune disorders. In this study, we set out to determine the role of SK and S1P in lupus nephritis (LN). To this end, we examined S1P and dihydro-S1P (dh-S1P) levels in serum and kidney tissues from a mouse model of LN. Interestingly dh-S1P was significantly elevated in serum and kidney tissue from LN mice, which is more readily phosphorylated by SK2. Therefore, we employed the use of the specific SK2 inhibitor, ABC294640 in our murine model of LN. Treatment with ABC294640 did not improve vascular or interstitial pathology associated with LN. However, mice treated with the SK2 inhibitor did demonstrate decreases in glomerular pathology and accumulation of B and T cells in the spleen these were not statistically different from lpr mice treated with vehicle. LN mice treated with ABC294640 did not have improved urine thromboxane levels or urine proteinuria measurements. Both S1P and dh-S1P levels in circulation were significantly reduced with ABC294640 treatment; however, dh-S1P was actually elevated in kidneys from LN mice treated with ABC294640. Together these data demonstrate a role for SKs in LN; however, they suggest that inhibition of SK1 or perhaps both SK isoforms would better prevent elevations in S1P and dh-S1P and potentially better protect against LN.
A global model of high current negative hydrogen ion source

Dissociative electron attachment to rovibrationally excited hydrogen molecules is one of the key mechanisms of volume negative hydrogen ion formation. Usually production of high-lying vibrational states of H 2 molecules is attributed to collisions with energetic electrons1 (> 20eV). At the same time these electrons are effective to destroy negative ions. Therefore, the volume sources are mostly based on space separation of vibrationally excited molecules formation and negative hydrogen ions generation regions. A new concept for negative ion production is investigated. The production of vibrationally excited molecules is accomplished in a high pressure discharge followed by the generation of negative hydrogen ions in a second chamber connected with a nozzle. This concept has an advantage over existing negative ion sources, by keeping the electron temperature low thus eliminating the need of magnetic filter.
Evaluation of Semantic Fisheye Zooming to Provide Focus+Context

A concept map is a diagram that consists of nodes that contain individual concepts or pieces of information. These nodes are connected by lines that represent relationships between the information. Large concept maps are difficult to explore and navigate using current digital display interfaces. As users zoom in on a desired node, connections between the node of interest and surrounding nodes become hidden from the user. A combination of fisheye zooming and semantic zooming mechanisms to maintain the visual connections between the nodes was implemented, and a user study to determine whether this technique helps users learn from the map was conducted. The user study revealed that participants were able to recall more information presented in a concept map, with practically no difference in the amount of time spent using the map, despite the novelty of the semantic fisheye interface.
Mandibular gland allomones ofDasymutilla occidentalis and other mutillid wasps

The mandibular gland secretion of the mutillid wasp,Dasymutilla occidentalis, possesses three short-chained ketones-4-methyl-3-heptanone (4MH), 4,6-dimethyl-3-nonanone (4,6DMN), 4,6-dimethyl-3-octanone (4,6DMO)—and several unidentified compounds. This is the first report of 4,6DMN as a natural product and its synthesis is described. These ketones, which are either known to be ant alarm pheromones or are structurally very similar to ant alarm pheromones, appear to function as allomones against ants, major potential predators of mutillid wasps. The major secretory component, 4-methyl-3-heptanone, which was identified in females and/ or males of the species analyzed within the generaDasymutilla, Timulla, Traumatomutilla, andPappognatha, appears to constitute a chemical character of the defensive secretions of these genera.
Empowering communication: a community-based intervention for patients

The "How to Talk to Your Doctor" community education forums operate under the assumption that information exchange and consumer involvement in healthcare can empower communities in need. We report on the development and preliminary evaluation of this community-based intervention designed to activate and enhance patients' communicative abilities in the medical encounter. We review evidence supporting the feasibility of and benefits that can be expected from improving patients' communication competency. Our intervention is simple and flexible so, therefore, can be portable to a large number of communities. Our preliminary evaluation suggests that the intervention is well-received and produces improved self-perceptions of communication competence across diverse settings and participants. We describe our intervention and its development and dissemination as a model for improving patients' communicative abilities through a community-based, active learner approach. By sharing our experiences, the barriers we encountered, and our ongoing efforts to improve patient communication in the medical encounter, we hope to empower patients to communicate better with their physicians.
Synthetic seco Forms of (−)‐Diazonamide A

One bond and a water molecule separate title compound 1 from the potently bioactive peptide metabolite diazonamide A. Compositionally similar, yet topographically distinct, diazonamide A and 1 are both toxic towards cultured human cancer cells although the mechanisms underlying their actions likely differ. The quest towards completely synthetic diazonamides continues.
The adult cervicothoracic musculature of the cockroach, Nauphoeta cinerea (Olivier)

The cervicothoracic musculature of the adult cockroach, Nauphoeta cinerea (Olivier) is described for the first time. The adult thoracic ventral intersegmental muscles are compared with those of the nymph and of the adult cockroach, Periplaneta americana (Linnaeus).
The implications of performance feedback research for understanding antisocial work behavior

Abstract This paper explores existing performance feedback models and their implications for understanding antisocial behavior at work. We begin with the presentation of a summary model that outlines constructs and relationships common in current feedback models. Then, we discuss what these constructs and relationships suggest about the occurrence of antisocial responses when negative performance feedback is provided. In addition, we use the performance feedback model to identify areas of research that have been ignored in current conceptualizations of antisocial work behavior.
The oncogenic fusion protein-tyrosine kinase ZNF198/fibroblast growth factor receptor-1 has signaling function comparable with interleukin-6 cytokine receptors

The reciprocal t(8;13) chromosome translocation results in a fusion gene (FUS) in which the N-terminal half of the zinc finger protein ZNF198 is combined with the cytoplasmic domain of the fibroblast growth factor receptor-1 (FGFR1). Expression of FUS is suggested to provide growth-promoting activity to myeloid cells similar to the activity of hematopoietic cytokine receptors. This study determined the specificity of FUS to activate signal transduction pathways. Because no tumor cell line expressing FUS was available, the mode of FUS action was identified in cells transiently and stably transfected with an expression vector for FUS. FUS acted as a constitutively active protein-tyrosine kinase and mediated phosphorylation of STAT1, 3, and 5 but not STAT4 and 6. The same specificity but lower activity was determined for normal FGFR1. STAT activation by FUS, similar to that by interleukin-6-type cytokines, promoted STAT-specific induction of genes. The functionality of FUS, as well as the relative recruitment of STAT isoforms, was determined by the dimerizing function of the zinc finger domain. Replacement of the ZNF198 portion by the Bcr portion as present in the t(8;22) translocation shifted the signaling toward a more prominent STAT5 activation. This study documents that both gene partners forming the fusion oncogene define the activity and the signaling specificity of the protein-tyrosine kinase of FGFR1.
CORTICAL CELL DEATH DURING LATERAL ROOT FORMATION

Root segments of Convolvulus arvensis, the field bindweed, were examined with the electron microscope to make possible a description of the fine structural correlates of lateral root protrusion through cortical parenchyma. Particular attention was directed to the outermost primordium cells, derived by meristematic activity from the endodermis, and to the contiguous cortical parenchyma cells. By following the fate of the Casparian strip through numerous divisions of the endodermal cell, information has been obtained relating to the minimum contribution of the endodermis to the root primordium structure. Cortical parenchyma cells during lateral root growth are specifically degraded so that only the cell wall remains. A layer of cell wall material, representing numerous cortical parenchyma cells, accrues at the tip of the advancing root primordium. It is suggested that the intensive coated-vesicle activity along the plasmalemma of the outermost primordium cell and the appearance of the vesicle contents in the outer wall of this cell are indicative of the secretion of hydrolases which move through the wall and attack the adjacent cortical parenchyma cells.
A comparative immunochemical study of hemoglobins from the earthworm and horseleech

Abstract 1. 1. Antisera produced in rabbits by immunization with vascular hemoglobins of the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris and horseleech Haemopsis marmorata were tested for the ability to cross-react with heterologous hemoglobin. 2. 2.Two of eight antisera demonstrated immunological cross-reactivity between the hemoglobins studied. 3. 3.The structural basis for this cross-reactivity is briefly considered.
Chronic tinnitus as phantom auditory pain.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate similarities between patients who experience chronic tinnitus or pain and to formulate treatment strategies that are likely to be effective for patients who experience ph...
Computational considerations in application of the finite element method for analysis of unsteady flow around airfoils.

Difficulties related to the application of the finite element method for numerical solution of the Navier-Stokes equation are discussed. The unsteady flow around a stationary and oscillating NACA 0012 airfoil was analyzed. In an effort to establish the range of applicability of the developed numerical method, the accuracy and stability problems in representing unsteady flow patterns and determining pressure distribution around the airfoil were investigated. Error involved in determining the velocity field and in the numerical integration of the discretized equations were analyzed in terms of geometry of the finite element gridwork, boundary conditions for stationary and oscillating airfoils, angles of attack and flow conditions.
An examination of the physical health, health care use, and psychological well-being of spouses of people with fibromyalgia syndrome.

The present study compared the physical and mental health and the health care use of spouses of patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (FS group; n = 135) with that of spouses of healthy individuals (n = 153). FS group participants reported lower health and affective states and scored higher on depression, loneliness, and subjective stress than comparison group participants (p < .017). Husbands in the FS group who reported more illness impact and whose wives reported worse sleep quality and less self-efficacy had more psychological difficulties. No differences were found in health care costs between groups. These findings suggest that chronic illness in a partner may negatively affect an individual's physical and mental health.
Topologias de poder: a análise de Foucault sobre o governo político para além da “governamentalidade”

The publication of Michel Foucault's lectures at the College de France in the late 1970s has provided new insight into crucial developments in his late work, including the return to an analysis of the state and the introduction of biopolitics as a central theme. According to one dominant interpretation, these shifts did not entail a fundamental methodological break; the approach Foucault developed in his work on knowledge/power was simply applied to new objects. The present article argues that this reading - which is colored by the overwhelming privilege afforded to Discipline and punish in secondary literature - obscures an important modification in Foucault's method and diagnostic style that occurred between the introduction of biopolitics in 1976 (in Society must be defended) and the lectures of 1978 (Security, territory, population) and 1979 (Birth of biopolitics). Foucault's initial analysis of biopolitics was couched in surprisingly epochal and totalizing claims about the characteristic forms of power in modernity. The later lectures, by contrast, suggest what I propose to call a 'topological' analysis that examines the 'patterns of correlation' in which heterogeneous elements - techniques, material forms, institutional structures and technologies of power - are configured, as well as the redeployments through which these patterns are transformed. I also indicate how attention to the topological dimension of Foucault's analysis might change our understanding of key themes in his late work: biopolitics, the analysis of thinking, and the concept of governmentality.
Designing Semantic Differential Scales for a Universe of the Near Environment—Chairs

Individual decision making under current social and cultural constraints can be exercised most effectively within the arena of the near environment, and more specifically, the home. Using a component of the home environment, the universe of chairs, an SD measuring instrument was designed that will reveal aspects of the man-environment interface. This paper describes the methodology by which a set of bi-polar scales was selected for a group of consumers. Seventy subjects in three groups with different levels of formal educational experiences in art and design were asked to make free associational qualifier responses to slides of 60 representative chairs. Intergroup correlations reduced the number of 67 representative qualifiers that express the concept-domain relevant traits actually used in common communications about the chairs. Thirty bi-polar scales were obtained after opposite elicitation. These scales plus 10 Osgood American indigenous affective markers comprise this SD measuring instrument.
A population-based study of inpatient outcomes after operative management of nontraumatic intracerebral hemorrhage in the United States.

Background In the United States, data on patient outcomes after operative management of nontraumatic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) have been largely derived from tertiary care academic institutions. Given that outcomes of patients treated at these specialized centers may differ from those treated at community hospitals, our aim was to report patient outcomes on a population-based, national level. Methods The Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) was utilized to identify all patients with a primary diagnosis of nontraumatic ICH (431.xx) who underwent a craniotomy or craniectomy (ICD-9 CCS code 1). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to analyze the effects of patient and hospital characteristics on outcome measures. Results NIS estimated that 657,428 patients with a primary diagnosis of nontraumatic ICH were admitted between 1993 and 2003 in the United States, 45,159 (6.9%) of whom underwent surgical treatment. The in-hospital mortality rate for surgically treated patients was 27.2%, and the complication rate was 41.2%. The most common complications reported were pulmonary (30.4%), renal (3.2%), and thromboembolic (2.9%). A single postoperative complication increased the mortality rate by 29% and lengthened the hospital stay by 5 days. Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that complications and mortality were more likely in patients of African-American descent, and in subjects with 1 or more pre-existing comorbidity. Additionally, the mortality rate was lowest in hospitals that performed the highest volume of operations for nontraumatic ICH (odds ratio = 0.8; 95% confidence interval 0.68 to 0.99). Conclusions Patients with intracerebral hemorrhage who undergo craniotomy or craniectomy have a high morbidity and mortality. Male gender, preoperative comorbidities, complications, and low hospital volume were associated with an increased risk of in-hospital mortality.
The new UCSB free-electron lasers

Abstract Two of three new FELs and their associated electron beam switchyard are now complete and operating at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). These constitute the primary radiation source of the UCSB Center for Free-Electron Laser Studies, dedicated to scientific research in the far-infrared. Operating characteristics and salient features of these machines are discussed.
A Brief Review of Heavy-Ion Radiation Degradation and Failure of Silicon UMOS Power Transistors

Silicon VDMOS power MOSFET technology is being supplanted by UMOS (or trench) power MOSFET technology. Designers of spaceborne power electronics systems incorporating this newer power MOSFET technology need to be aware of several unique threats that this technology may encounter in space. Space radiation threats to UMOS power devices include vulnerabilities to SEB, SEGR, and microdose. There have been relatively few studies presented or published on the effects of radiation on this device technology. The S-O-A knowledge of UMOS power device degradation and failure under heavy-ion exposure is reviewed.
Electrical properties and atomic distribution studies in ion implanted InP

Abstract The electrical properties and atomic distribution of Be- and Si-implanted InP are presented. Phosphosilicate glass acts as an efficient encapsulant up to anneal temperatures as high as 750°C. Capless annealing was successfully performed in flowing phosphine ambient. The experimental atomic distribution of as-implanted Be and Si are in good agreement with LSS theory. A significant redistribution was observed in 10 14 cm −2 Be-implanted samples on annealing at 650°C. A hole concentration of 6 × 10 13 cm −2 was measured in 750°C annealed, 10 14 cm −2 Be-implantd samples while electron concentrations of 5.2 × 10 13 cm −2 were measured in both 6 × 10 13 , 10 14 cm −2 Si-implanted, 750°C annealed InP samples.
Cognitive Behavioral Treatment of Health-Related Anxiety in Youth: A Case Example.

Although illness phobias are fairly common disorders, their treatment has been scarcely addressed in the literature. The current article discusses the treatment of a 9-year-old female diagnosed with health-related anxiety—specifically, a phobia of vomiting. A variety of cognitive-behavioral techniques, such as relaxation training (e.g., deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation), cognitive restructuring, exposure, and parent management training, were utilized in the treatment of this client. Baseline and posttreatment outcome data related to the client's symptomatology and functional status were collected from both the client and her mother. Results suggest that cognitive-behavioral techniques can be quite effective in reducing many of the symptoms and behavioral impairments related to illness phobias in youth.
Roles of Putative Type II Secretion and Type IV Pilus Systems in the Virulence of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli

BACKGROUND Type II secretion systems (T2SS) and the evolutionarily related type IV pili (T4P) are important virulence determinants in many Gram-negative bacterial pathogens. However, the roles of T2SS and T4P in the virulence of extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli have not been determined. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS To investigate the functions of putative T2SS and T4P gene clusters present in the model uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) strains UTI89 and CFT073, we deleted the secretin gene present in each cluster. The secretin forms a channel in the outer membrane that is essential for the function of T2S and T4P systems. We compared the secretin deletion mutants with their wild type counterparts using tissue culture assays and the CBA/J mouse model of ascending urinary tract infection. No deficiencies were observed with any of the mutants in adherence, invasion or replication in human bladder or kidney cell lines, but UTI89 DeltahofQ and UTI89 DeltagspD exhibited approximately 2-fold defects in fluxing out of bladder epithelial cells. In the mouse infection model, each of the knockout mutants was able to establish successful infections in the bladder and kidneys by day one post-infection. However, UTI89 DeltahofQ and a CFT073 DeltahofQ DeltayheF double mutant both exhibited defects in colonizing the kidneys by day seven post-infection. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Based on our results, we propose that the putative T4P and T2S systems are virulence determinants of UPEC important for persistence in the urinary tract, particularly in renal tissues.
The 3s2 1S0-3s3p 3P1 magnesium sequence intercombination lines from ScX to MoXXXI observed in the PLT tokamak

Abstract Wavelengths of the 3s 2 1 S 0 -3s3p 3 P 1 transitions of the ScX, NiXVII, CuXVIII, GeXXI, SeXXIII, ZrXXIX and MoXXXI ions have been measured in the PLT tokamak discharges, with the appropriate elements introduced by laser blow-off injection.
Phase verification of compact multilayered low temperature co‐fired ceramic composite right‐/left‐handed transmission line

A novel compact multilayered composite right-/left-handed (CRLH) transmission line (TL), fabricated using low-temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) technology, is demonstrated. In common with the conventional planar CRLH lines, the signal in the multilayered CRLH TL propagates along a defined path; however with the use of parallel-plate capacitors to create the series capacitances and loop inductors to create the shunt inductances, the size of the TL is significantly reduced compared to that of the planar CRLH TL. Phase-portraits in the near-field region as well as far-field patterns are used to verify the operation in both the left- and the right-handed frequency regions. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 48: 1792–1795, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.21809
Toolkit for parallel image processing

In this paper, we present the design and implementation of a parallel image processing software library (the Parallel Image Processing Toolkit). The Toolkit not only supplies a rich set of image processing routines, it is designed principally as an extensible framework containing generalized parallel computational kernels to support image processing. Users can easily add their own image processing routines without knowledge or explicit use of the underlying data distribution mechanisms or parallel computing model. Shared memory and multi-level memory hierarchies are exploited to achieve high performance on each node, thereby minimizing overall parallel execution time. Multiple load balancing schemes have been implemented within the parallel framework that transparently distribute the computational load evenly on a distributed memory computing environment. Inside the Toolkit, a message-passing model of parallelism is designed around the Message Passing Interface standard. Experimental results are presented to demonstrate the parallel speedup obtained with the Parallel Image Processing Toolkit in a typical workstation cluster with some common image processing tasks.
Towards Strategic Design Reuse by Leveraging Commonality and Managing Variability

Increasing software productivity and shortening the software development cycle have become critical to the success of an organization. Some commonly used strategies to shorten the software development cycle while simultaneously increasing programmer productivity and product quality include improving software processes, deploying new technologies, and reusing software artifacts. This paper presents a ongoing work that focuses on strategic design reuse by leveraging commonality and managing variability in design artifacts. It utilizes the methodologies of Model Driven Engineering (MDE) and Software Product Lines (SPL). This work is part of a larger effort focused on migrating towards model-driven engineering approach for effective enterprise software development.
Comment on "How Many Causes Are There of Aging-Related Decrements in Cognitive Functioning?"

Abstract Salthouse (1994) introduces a new type of correlation, termed the quasi-partial correlation (QPC). The QPC reflects the amount of age-related variance that is shared by two variables. In this commentary it is argued that the QPC is a model where age is a suitable proxy for time, change over time is linear, and causation is instantaneous or nearly instantaneous. Where these assumptions are reasonable, QPC′s are a highly valuable research tool. It is also argued that the "causes" of decline identified by Salthouse might be termed "dimensions" of decline instead, because the analysis did not include independently assessed causal variables. Finally, it is suggested that age is unsatisfying as a predictor of change across the lifespan.
Regional simulations to quantify land use change and irrigation impacts on hydroclimate in the California Central Valley

In this study, the influence of land use change and irrigation in the California Central Valley is quantified using the Pennsylvania State University/National Center for Atmospheric Research fifth generation Mesoscale Model (MM5) coupled with the Community Land Model version 3 (CLM3). The simulations were forced with modern-day and presettlement land use types at 30-km spatial resolution for the period 1 October 1995 to 30 September 1996. This study shows that land use change has significantly altered the structure of the planetary boundary layer (PBL) that affects near-surface temperature. In contrast, many land-use change studies indicate that albedo and evapotranspiration variations are the key processes influencing climate at local-to-regional scales. Our modeling results show that modern-day daily maximum near-surface air temperature (Tmax) has decreased due to agricultural expansion since presettlement. This decrease is caused by weaker sensible heat flux resulting from the lower surface roughness lengths associated with modern-day crops. The lower roughness lengths in the Central Valley also result in stronger winds that lead to a higher PBL. The higher PBL produces stronger sensible heat flux, causing nighttime warming. In addition to land use change, cropland irrigation has also affected hydroclimate processes within the California Central Valley. We generated a 10-member MM5-CLM3 ensemble simulation, where each ensemble member was forced by a fixed volumetric soil water content (SWC) between 3% and 30%, at 3% intervals, over the irrigated areas during a spring–summer growing season, 1 March to 31 August 1996. The results show that irrigation lowers the modern-day cropland surface temperature. Daytime cooling is produced by irrigation-related evaporation enhancement. This increased evaporation also dominates the nighttime surface cooling process. Surface cooling and the resulting weaker sensible heat flux further lower the near-surface air temperature. Thus, irrigation strengthens the daytime near-surface air temperature reduction that is caused by land use change, and a similar temperature change is seen for observations over irrigated cropland. Based on our modeling results, the nighttime near-surface warming induced by land use change is alleviated by low-intensity irrigation (17% 19%). The land use changes discussed in this study are commonly observed in many regions of the world, and the physical processes identified here can be used to better understand temperature variations over other areas with similar land cover changes.
Clinical factors influencing survival and adequacy of revascularization after coronary bypass operation

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data on 3479 consecutive patients having coronary bypass surgery. Patients with triple vessel and left main coronary disease had a greater frequency of inotropic requirements than did patients with single or double vessel disease (7.9% and 8.6% versus 3.8% and 4.2%; P less than 0.001). Presence of previous myocardial infarction, heart failure, or left ventricular contraction abnormalities significantly decreased the ability to achieve complete revascularization with bypass grafting. Hospital mortality since 1976 has been 0.8% (25/3040). Hospital mortality was significantly increased by history of myocardial infarction (P less than 0.001), hypertension (P less than 0.05), heart failure (P less than 0.01), extent of anatomic disease (P less than 0.005), presence of preoperative ST-T wave changes (P less than 0.001), and severe abnormalities of left ventricular function (P less than 0.001). Anginal pattern, history of hypertension, previous myocardial infarction, preoperative heart failure but not perioperative myocardial infarction significantly affected long-term survival. Patients with normal left ventricular function had excellent 42-month survival regardless of vessel disease. Inability to achieve complete revascularization did not adversely affect hospital mortality, but did significantly reduce late survival. Although bypass grafting improves survival in patients with multivessel disease and left ventricular dysfunction, the benefits appear to be significantly reduced when left ventricular damage has occurred.
Effect of polymer molecular variables on drag reduction

Abstract Drag reduction is the reduction in energy loss in turbulent flows caused by high polymer or other additives. Although the phenomenon was first observed independently by Mysels and by Toms over three decades ago, the complex interactions of the polymer molecules and the turbulent flow are still not well understood. This paper reviews some of the unusual flow characteristics of drag-reducing solutions, discusses potential applications, and points out the limitations posed by mechanical degradation. The effect of polymer molecular weight, molecular weight distribution, concentration, and solvency on drag reduction are shown for narrow molecular weight polystyrene samples and their mixtures. Various hypotheses for predicting the onset of drag reduction are discussed and compared with measured onset values. The data are best fit by a time-scale hypothesis which depends on the ratio of a molecular relaxation time to a characteristic time of the flow (Deborah number). Two measures of the relative effect...
Influence of boronoxygen bonding on glass properties

The relationship between properties and glass structure is, perhaps, more clearly evident in borate and in borosilicates than it is in any other family of glasses. Nuclear magnetic resonance measurements have shown that, at room temperature, the manner in which oxygen bonds to boron depends on the ratio of alkali to boron. A statistical mechanical model indicated that the bonding is influenced by temperature and it was used to calculate the relative numbers of various structural units for the glass as a function of composition and temperature. The results exhibit a reasonably good correlation with the measured strain point and softening point. A model for the halogen solubility as a function of temperature and of matrix composition was also developed. The predictions of the model were fairly well correlated with the intensity of the exciton absorption in glasses in which cuprous halide had precipitated.
Influence of initial spacing and row‐to‐row distance on the growth and yield of silver birch (betula pendula)

The growth and yield of silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.), up to the first thinning stage and partly beyond, were studied in four planting design experiments. Stands were established using densities of 400–5000 trees ha−1 with even planting and row‐to‐row distances of 3.5 and 5.0 m. The tree quality was not studied but a subsequent study addresses this topic. In the densest birch stands, having 4000 live trees ha−1 at a dominant height of 15 m, height and volume increments were observed to begin to slow down. At the age of 20 yrs the highest increment of stem wood was observed at two densities, i.e. 2500 and 5000 trees ha−1. The yield of pulpwood was 20 m3 ha−1 less with initial spacing of 1600 trees ha‐1 compared with the denser stands. The diameter growth of the dominant trees was reduced when the stem number exceeded 1000 trees ha−1. At the lowest density of 400 trees ha‐1, birch height increment was redued. The skewness value of the diameter distribution was mostly negative. At the first thinning ag...
Structure-Function Relations and Rigidity Percolation in Biopolymer Networks in Live Tissue under Shear: Bovine Articular Cartilage as a Model System

Studies of hierarchical structure in biological tissues are fundamental to identifying useful design principles that can be transferred to both biological and non-biological engineered systems. Among mammalian soft tissues, articular cartilage is particularly interesting, as it can endure 60+ years of daily mechanical loading despite having minimal regenerative capacity. This remarkable resilience may be due to the depth-dependent mechanical properties, which are known to localize strain and energy dissipation to the tissue's surface. Based on qualitative observations, it has been proposed that these properties arise from the depth-dependent collagen fiber orientation. Nevertheless, this structure-function relationship has not yet been quantified. Here, we use a combination of a computational model made of a collagen network and a hydrated aggrecan matrix, and confocal elastography experiments on live tissue to look for constitutive relations between mechanical and structural quantities. Surprisingly, we find weak correlations between the shear modulus and the collagen fiber orientation. Instead, we find a much stronger correlation with the concentration of collagen fibers, which shows a 2-fold variation in collagen volume fraction correlates with a 100-fold variation in the modulus, and follows a scaling law relation. Such dependencies are observed in the rheology of in-vitro cytoskeletal networks that exhibit a rigidity percolation phase transition. Along these lines, we propose that the collagen network is near a percolation threshold that gives rise to these large mechanical variations and strain-localization at the tissue's surface. The interplay between this criticality, and the co-operative interaction between the collagen network and the aggrecan background underlie the observed mechanical response.
Differential Effects of Cough, Valsalva, and Continence Status on Vesical Neck Movement

Objective: We tested the null hypothesis that vesical neck descent is the same during a cough and during a Valsalva maneuver. We also tested the secondary null hypothesis that differences in vesical neck mobility would be independent of parity and continence status. Methods: Three groups were included: 17 nulliparous continent (31.3 ± 5.6; range 22–42 years), 18 primiparous continent (30.4 ± 4.3; 24–43), and 23 primiparous stress-incontinent (31.9 ± 3.9; 25–38) women. Measures of vesical neck position at rest and during displacement were obtained by ultrasound. Abdominal pressures were recorded simultaneously using an intravaginal microtransducer catheter. To control for differing abdominal pressures, the stiffness of the vesical neck support was calculated by dividing the pressure exerted during a particular effort by the urethral descent during that effort. Results: The primiparous stress-incontinent women displayed similar vesical neck mobility during a cough effort and during a Valsalva maneuver (13.8 mm compared with 14.8 mm; P = .49). The nulliparous continent women (8.2 mm compared with 12.4 mm; P = .001) and the primiparous continent women (9.9 mm compared with 14.5 mm; P = .002) displayed less mobility during a cough than during a Valsalva maneuver despite greater abdominal pressure during cough. The nulliparas displayed greater pelvic floor stiffness during a cough compared with the continent and incontinent primiparas (22.7, 15.5, 12.2 cm H2O/mm, respectively; P = .001). Conclusion: There are quantifiable differences in vesical neck mobility during a cough and Valsalva maneuver in continent women. This difference is lost in the primiparous stress-incontinent women.
Sequence and genomic organization of the hsp70 genes of Leishmania amazonensis.

The sequence and genomic organization of hsp70 genes in Leishmania amazonensis were examined. Maps of overlapping cosmid clones revealed that seven L. amazonensis hsp70 genes are organized into a 24-kb locus containing 3.5-kb tandem repeats. Cosmids covering a different chromosomal region indicated that an eighth hsp70 sequence is located at a distant site. Southern blot data suggested the existence of additional hsp70 genes or pseudogenes. One complete 3.5-kb genomic repeat unit, including coding and intergenic regions, was sequenced. The predicted L. amazonensis HSP70 protein had approximately 95% sequence identity with Leishmania donovani or Leishmania major HSP70, 81–85% identity with trypanosome HSP70, and 68 or 72% identity with human HSP70 or HSP70 cognate, respectively. The GGMP tetrapeptide repeat found in other trypanosomatid HSP70 proteins is absent from the L. amazonensis sequence. Intergenic sequences of L. amazonensis and L. major differed mainly in the presence of short gaps in the L. amazonensis sequence. Potential regulatory heat shock elements were identified in the upstream sequence. Several cDNA clones were also isolated, and two different poly(A) addition sites 100 nucleotides apart were identified.
When and Where? Facilitating Group Work beyond the Borders of the Classroom:

Group assignments for management courses sometimes require students to work together outside regular class sessions. The authors present a six-step practical exercise and tools designed to help student groups with the challenges they encounter in coordinatingwhen and where to meet outside of scheduled class time. The exercise and tools facilitate student learningby helpingstudents determine good times and places for their group meetings, thus improving the quality of the project outcome and group process.
Manganese-induced potentiation of in vitro proinflammatory cytokine production by activated microglial cells is associated with persistent activation of p38 MAPK

Previous studies that investigated the role of inflammation in the neurotoxicity of manganese (Mn) found that Mn enhanced the production of inflammogen (lipopolysaccharide; LPS)-induced proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α. Although we have shown that the enhanced cytokine production occurs via a NF-κB-dependent mechanism, the role of upstream kinases in this Mn-induced enhancement has not been explored. As other studies have demonstrated that p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (p38) is necessary for LPS-induced, NF-κB-dependent expression of proinflammatory cytokines, we hypothesized that Mn enhancement of LPS-induced production of IL-6 and TNF-α may be associated with p38 activation and conducted a series of experiments to address our hypothesis. We found that pre-treatment of microglial cells with a p38-inhibitor (SB203580) prevented Mn+LPS- induced production of IL-6 and TNF-α. Moreover, potentiation of IL-6 and TNF-α production, which occurred in both concurrent and sequential (3 h apart) exposures to Mn and LPS, was inhibited by inhibition of p38. Additionally, Mn exposure enhanced the phosphorylation and activity of p38 and this effect was persistent. Although p38 activity declined over time in vehicle and LPS-exposed cells, it persisted in cells exposed to Mn or Mn+LPS. Thus, the increased production of proinflammatory cytokines by LPS-activated microglia exposed to Mn is associated with increased and persistent activation of p38.
Acute Neurological Issues in Pregnancy and the Peripartum

Acute neurological diseases requiring hospitalization are relatively rare in women of childbearing age. However, during pregnancy and the postpartum period, several diseases increase in prevalence. Some are unique to the pregnant/postpartum state including preeclampsia and delivery-associated neuropathies. Others, although indirectly related to pregnancy, such as cerebral venous thrombosis, ischemic stroke, and intracerebral hemorrhage, increase in frequency and carry considerable risk of morbidity and mortality. In addition, treatment options are often limited. This review discusses the diseases more commonly seen during pregnancy and the postpartum period, with a focus on emergent neurological diseases and their management. Interventional therapies will also be discussed.
Disease Relapse in Patients with Ocular Manifestations of Wegener Granulomatosis

Purpose: To evaluate possible factors associated with disease relapse in patients with ocular manifestations of Wegener granulomatosis. Methods: Eight patients with ocular manifestations of Wegener granulomatosis were longitudinally followed for a mean period of 34 months. Serial antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) levels were determined on all patients. Results: All eight patients had either scleritis alone or scleritis combined with peripheral ulcerative keratitis. Clinical disease remission was achieved in all patients using immunosuppressive chemotherapy. Five patients had subsequent relapse after treatment withdrawal. The serum ANCA level had failed to revert to normal during remission in four of the five patients who had had relapses. The ANCA levels for all three patients who remained in remission without therapy converted to normal. There was no significant difference in the initial serum ANCA level ( P = 0.35) or the mean cumulative cyclophosphamide dose ( P = 0.13) between those who had a relapse and those who did not. Conclusion: Failure of ANCA titers to revert to normal levels may be associated with the potential for relapse in patients with ocular manifestations of Wegener granulomatosis.
STREAM FUNCTION-VORTICITY DRIVEN CAVITY SOLUTION USING p FINITE ELEMENTS

Calculations for the two-dimensional driven cavity incompressible flow problem are presented. A p-type finite element scheme for the fully coupled stream function-vorticity formulation of the Navier-Stokes equations is used. Graded meshes are used to resolve vortex flow features and minimize the impact of corner singularities. Incremental continuation in the Reynolds number allows solutions to be computed for Re = 12 500. A significant feature of the work is that new tertiary and quaternary corner vortex features are observed in the flow field. Comparisons are made with other solutions in the literature.
Budgets, Plans and Politics: Questioning the Role of Expert Knowledge in Disaster Reconstruction

Keywords: commentary, disaster, urban planning, governmentality, urban anthropology, international development, Honduras, New Orleans, Hurricane Katrina, ecology and environment, development
A Hybrid Method for Multi-Area Generation Expansion using Tabu-search and Dynamic Programming

This paper combines Tabu search with an optimization technique using dynamic programming for the solution of generation expansion and placement considering reliability in multi-area power systems. Instead of random selection, initial solution for Tabu search is obtained from optimizing a simplified problem utilizing dynamic programming and reliability assessment technique called global decomposition. The comparison between random initial solutions and the proposed method is made. The method is implemented for an actual 12-area power system.
Expression and regulation of vitamin D3 upregulated protein 1 (VDUP1) is conserved in mammalian and insect brain

Originally characterized as a cell-cycle inhibitor induced by vitamin D(3), the tumor suppressor vitamin-D(3) upregulated protein 1 (VDUP1) has increasingly been shown to play major physiological roles in cell differentiation and glucose metabolism. Here we show evolutionarily conserved expression patterns of VDUP1 in Drosophila and rat nervous systems, including subcellular localization--cytoplasmic enrichment in neurons and nuclear expression in glia. These anatomical correlates suggested conservation of VDUP1 regulation, which was investigated both functionally and through promoter studies. Characterization of orthologous vdup1 cis-regulatory regions identified evolutionarily conserved sequence blocks (CSBs) with similarities to neural enhancers, including basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor Neurogenin/Math/atonal and Mash/achaete-scute family members. E-boxes (CANNTG), the binding sites for bHLH proteins, were associated with these CSBs as well, including E-boxes known to mediate glucose-dependent upregulation of VDUP1 in nonneuronal cells. Hyperglycemia-induced upregulation of VDUP1 was observed in brain tumor cells and in the Drosophila nervous system, which resulted in developmental arrest. Taken together, these data demonstrate evolutionary conservation of VDUP1 regulation and function, and suggest an expanding role for VDUP1 in nervous system development.
Effectiveness of calcium channel blockers for Raynaud phenomenon.

CCBs are modestly effective at reducing the frequency of attacks of primary Raynaud phenomenon. There is no evidence that attack severity or physiologic measurements are reduced by CCBs. Treatment is associated with adverse effects such as headache, flushing, and edema.