cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Glomerular Diseases in Children

Unique challenges exist in the diagnosis and treatment of glomerular diseases with their onset during childhood. Mounting evidence supports the notion that earlier onset cases occur due to larger numbers of genetic risk alleles. Nearly all causes of adult-onset glomerulonephritis, nephrotic syndrome, and thrombotic microangiopathy have also been described in children, although the prevalence of specific causes differs. Postinfectious glomerulonephritis, Henoch-Schonlein purpura nephritis, and minimal change disease remain the most common causes of glomerular disease in younger children in the United States and can be diagnosed clinically without need for biopsy. IgA nephropathy is the most common pediatric glomerular disease diagnosed by kidney biopsy and is considered the most common chronic glomerulopathy worldwide. In both developing and developed countries, there is a strong relationship between infectious diseases and nephritis onset or relapse. Although research has led to a better understanding of how to classify and manage glomerular diseases in children, the need for disease-specific biomarkers of activity and chronicity remains a hurdle. The strength of the immune system and the growth and maturation that occurs during adolescence are unique and require age-specific approaches to disease management.
An investigation of branch stresses induced by arboricultural operations

Abstract This paper presents a method for assessing the safety of tree branches subject to unorthodox climbing approaches and possible falls. The method entails finite element modeling of the tree branch, experimentally or analytically determining loads associated with an ascending or falling climber, and computing stresses and safety factor along the length of the branch using dynamic structural analysis. A case study example is presented for an Ulmus americana L. branch on the campus of the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. This tree and branch were climbed using an unorthodox and controversial method during a competition in 2014. Case study models demonstrate that during an ascent, a climber’s skill has a significant effect on branch stresses, and during a simulated fall, the climber’s mass and fall distance are the key determinants of branch stresses. For loads induced during an ascent, safety factors for branches ranged between 3 and 4; for loads induced during a fall, safety factors were as low as 1.2. These values are dangerously low given the uncertainty of branch material properties. Climbers should be extremely cautious when attempting unorthodox climbing techniques.
Role of sublingual immunotherapy in the treatment of asthma: An updated systematic review.

Background The purpose of the systematic review is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) for the treatment of allergic asthma. Methods PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL databases were searched, updating an earlier review (January 1, 2005 through May 8, 2017). Randomized, controlled studies (RCTs) were included, which reported one of the prespecified outcomes: asthma symptoms measured by control composite scores; quality of life; medication use; pulmonary physiology; and health-care utilization. For safety outcomes, RCTs and observational studies were included. Two independent reviewers extracted data, assessed risk of bias, and graded strength of evidence (SOE) for each outcome. Results Fourteen RCTs (n = 2585) assessed the efficacy of SLIT for asthma. The RCTs utilized house dust mite (HDM), birch, or grass allergen. SLIT improved asthma symptoms (high SOE), decreased use of long-term control medication, and improved forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1 ) (moderate SOE). SLIT may decrease quick-relief medication use, and improve disease-specific quality of life (low SOE). For safety, 20 RCTs and 10 observational studies (n = 3621) were identified. Local (risk differences ranged from -0.03 to +0.765) and systemic allergic reactions (risk differences ranged from -0.03 to +0.06) were a common occurrence in SLIT and control groups. Life-threatening reactions were uncommon, with 3 cases of anaphylaxis and no deaths reported. Conclusion There is moderate-to-high strength evidence that SLIT improves allergic asthma symptoms, reduces long-term control medication use, and improves FEV1 based on studies of HDM, birch, and grass. SLIT rarely is associated with life-threatening adverse events.
Does repeated human handling of study animals during the mating season affect their offspring

Minimizing disturbance of study animals is a major consideration in ethological and ecological research design. One nearly universal type of disturbance is the handling of study animals as a component of trial setup. Even low to moderate levels of handling can be a substantial stressor to study animals, which may negatively affect their offspring via maternal effects. Understanding how routine human handling and manipulation may affect the outcome of research studies is therefore critical for interpreting study outcomes. We tested whether repeatedly handling and manipulating (i.e., manually disengaging) amplexed pairs of wood frogs (Rana sylvatica [Lithobates sylvaticus]), which have an explosive breeding season, would affect their reproductive output and offspring fitness. Handling and manipulation did not alter any parameter that we measured: reproductive timing, hatching success, and offspring larval duration, survival, and size at metamorphosis. These results suggest that handling and manipulation by researchers may have a negligible effect on wood frog reproduction and offspring fitness. It is possible that many species that are commonly used in reproductive studies because they suppress behavioral and physiological responses during the mating season are likewise unaffected by human handling. Nevertheless, researchers should examine possible consequences of methodological interventions on their study species in order to determine any potential influence on their results. Having a broad understanding of these effects on species that have robust or dampened stress responsiveness during the breeding season would be useful for making generalizations about potential effects.
The retinal input during fixation: Binocular head/eye coordination at the fine scale

In the periods between voluntary gaze shifts, the eyes continually drift following erratic trajectories. We report that these movements compensate for microscopic head movements to yield visual signals with specific characteristics on the retina.
Thermal characteristics of the MAGCOOL cryogenic system after quenches of RHIC dipoles

Thermal characteristics of the MAGCOOL cryogenic system after both natural and heater-induced quenches of the RHIC dipoles have been investigated. For natural quench currents around 6700 amperes, the pressure in the cooling loop exceeded the 15 atmosphere (15.2 MPa) setting of the quench relief valve causing helium to vent through the valve. The initial pressure rise rate was approximately 18 atm/min and the loop pressure increased from 5 to 15 atm in about 30 seconds. To ensure that no helium was vented from the MAGCOOL cooling loop in order to minimize uncertainties in the thermal measurements and better understand the heating/cooling process, the RHIC magnet was then quenched at lower currents between 2000 and 5000 amperes using a strip heater on the magnet coils. A series of tests with the cooling loop connected to a large volume surge tank was also performed to show the dependence of loop pressure on the loop volume. The peak pressure and temperature in the magnet cooling loop were found to be linearly proportional to the energy released for a given loop volume. The time lag of temperature along the cooling loop during quench recovery was determined. Very good agreement between total cooling provided and the magnetic stored energy was found for each of the several values of quench current.
Management of Intracranial Hypertension and Status Epilepticus

Intracranial hypertension, also known as elevated intracranial pressure, and status epilepticus are neurologic emergencies encountered in critically ill patients. Prompt recognition and treatment is imperative to prevent significant and potentially permanent brain injury or even death. Here we review management algorithms for the treatment of these patients.
Medical Surprise Anticipation and Recognition Capability: A New Concept for Better Health Care

Predicting and preparing for the unforeseen is challenging. Medicine and health care are continuously changing based on science, technology, and regulation. This very process of change creates pathways for surprise and leaves us vulnerable to its impact. The armed forces have established strategies to identify and address surprising events, a framework that can be adapted to benefit the medical community. We introduce Medical Surprise Anticipation and Recognition Capability (SARC), adapted from an established military strategy. SARC is the process of addressing surprising events before they emerge. We explore the framework for mitigating surprise as developed by the Committee on Capability Surprise on U.S. Naval Forces. We recommend further exploration of this concept in health care as a potential asset in our quest towards high reliability.
Clinical Impact of an Antibiotic Time Out Initiative at an Academic Medical Center.

Background: Various strategies aimed at limiting inappropriate antimicrobial use including antibiotic time out (ATO) have been proposed to combat the development of antimicrobial resistance, yet th...
Global solvability for a diffusion model with absorption and memory-driven flux at the boundary

A general result on global solvability is established for a diffusion–absorption model with memory-driven flux at the boundary. Such a boundary condition has been studied previously for application to the problem of new capillary growth as induced by a pre-metastatic tumor. In earlier results for the model without absorption, we provided a complete characterization of power law memory boundary conditions regarding either global solvability or blow-up in finite time. It turns out such results are identical to those for the corresponding model with localized power law flux conditions at the boundary. Now in the case of nonlinear absorption added to the model, which in fact better incorporates natural growth factor decay or uptake in the capillary growth application, the threshold of global solvability for the localized model is dependent upon strength of absorption in a way that is not parallel to our result for the memory-driven model. We conclude by proving blow-up results in the radially symmetric case and observing that future studies are needed to complete the full characterization of global solvability.
Hepatocyte-Specific Expression of Human Carboxylesterase 1 Attenuates Diet-Induced Steatohepatitis and Hyperlipidemia in Mice

Rodents have at least five carboxylesterase 1 (Ces1) genes, whereas there is only one CES1 gene in humans, raising the question as to whether human CES1 and mouse Ces1 genes share the same functions. In this study, we investigate the role of human CES1 in the development of steatohepatitis or dyslipidemia in C57BL/6 mice. Hepatocyte-specific expression of human CES1 prevented Western diet or alcohol-induced steatohepatitis and hyperlipidemia. Mechanistically, human CES1 induced lipolysis and fatty acid oxidation, leading to a reduction in hepatic triglyceride and free fatty acid levels. Human CES1 also reduced hepatic-free cholesterol levels and induced low-density lipoprotein receptor. In addition, human CES1 induced hepatic lipoprotein lipase and apolipoprotein C-II expression. Conclusion: Hepatocyte-specific overexpression of human CES1 attenuates diet-induced steatohepatitis and hyperlipidemia.
French and Chineses Cuisines: An Evaluation

This is the second of a two-part series on an evaluation of cuisines. The author establishes standards for cuisine which determine that Chinese food is superior to French.
Structural Characterization of Sphingomonas sp. KT-1 PahZ1-Catalyzed Biodegradation of Thermally Synthesized Poly(aspartic acid)

Poly(aspartic acid) (PAA) is a green alternative to non-biodegradable poly(carboxylates) and has applications in both industrial and biomedical settings. PAA is synthesized by heating monomeric asp...
Deep Brain Stimulation Compared With Contingency Management for the Treatment of Cocaine Use Disorders: A Threshold and Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

OBJECTIVES Cocaine is the second most frequently used illicit drug worldwide (after cannabis), and cocaine use disorder (CUD) related deaths increased globally by 80% from 1990 to 2013. There is yet to be a regulatory-approved treatment. Emerging preclinical evidence indicates that deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the nucleus accumbens may be a therapeutic option. Prior to expanding the costly investigation of DBS for treatment of CUD, it is important to ensure societal cost-effectiveness. AIMS We conducted a threshold and cost-effectiveness analysis to determine the success rate at which DBS would be equivalent to contingency management (CM), recently identified as the most efficacious therapy for treatments of CUDs. MATERIALS AND METHODS Quality of life, efficacy, and safety parameters for CM were obtained from previous literature. Costs were calculated from a societal perspective. Our model predicted the utility benefit based on quality-adjusted-life-years (QALYs) and incremental-cost-effectiveness-ratio resulting from two treatments on a one-, two-, and five-year timeline. RESULTS On a one-year timeline, DBS would need to impart a success rate (i.e., cocaine free) of 70% for it to yield the same utility benefit (0.492 QALYs per year) as CM. At no success rate would DBS be more cost-effective (incremental-cost-effectiveness-ratio <$50,000) than CM during the first year. Nevertheless, as DBS costs are front-loaded, DBS would need to achieve success rates of 74% and 51% for its cost-effectiveness to exceed that of CM over a two- and five-year period, respectively. CONCLUSIONS We find DBS would not be cost-effective in the short-term (one year) but may be cost-effective in longer timelines. Since DBS holds promise to potentially be a cost-effective treatment for CUDs, future randomized controlled trials should be performed to assess its efficacy.
Interdependent Investments in Attached and Movable Assets under Insecure Land Rights

The literature concludes that insecure land rights cause farms to make suboptimal investment in attached assets, but not in movable assets. However, the two asset types are interdependent, and investment in attached assets affects investment in movable assets through changing the farm infrastructure. I develop a conceptual model to explain why tenure insecurity incentivizes a farm to under-invest in attached assets and over-invest in low-efficiency movable assets. Simulations based on the model suggest that the sub-optimal investment results in considerable economic loss. The findings have important policy implications regarding land reforms and farm infrastructure in developing economies.
Desorption Induced by Electronic Transitions

Bombardment of a surface by electrons or photons can cause rupture of surface bonds and desorption from the surface, by inducing transitions to repulsive electronic states. The phenomenon of desorption induced by electronic transitions (DIET) includes both electron stimulated desorption (ESD) and photon stimulated desorption (PSD) [4.1–3]. DIET processes are of widespread importance in many areas of science and technology, including beam damage in surface analysis using x-rays or electrons, in electron and photon beam lithography, and in radiation physics of interstellar space, to name a few.
TRMM Version 7 Near-Realtime Data Products

The TRMM data system has been providing near-realtime data products to the community since late 1999. While the TRMM project never had near-realtime production requirements, the science and applications communities had a great interest in receiving TRMM data as quickly as possible. As a result these NRT data are provided under a best-effort scenario but with the objective of having the swath data products available within three hours of data collection 90% of the time. In July of 2011 the Joint Precipitation Measurement Missions Science Team (JPST) authorized the reprocessing of TRMM mission data using the new version 7 algorithms. The reprocessing of the 14+ years of the mission was concluded within 30 days. Version 7 algorithms had substantial changes in the data product file formats both for data and metadata. In addition, the algorithms themselves had major modifications and improvements. The general approach to versioning up the NRT is to wait for the regular production algorithms to have run for a while and shake out any issues that might arise from the new version before updating the NRT products. Because of the substantial changes in data/metadata formats as well as the algorithm improvements themselves, the update of NRT to V7 followed an even more conservative path than usual. This was done to ensure that applications agencies and other users of the TRMM NRT would not be faces with short-timeframes for conversion to the new format. This paper will describe the process by which the TRMM NRT was updated to V7 and the V7 data products themselves.
Angled bearing inserts in total knee arthroplasty

Malalignment of total knee prosthetic components may lead to premature wear, loosening of components, or patellar instability. Unfortunately, removal of securely cemented or ingrown components is difficult and may be extremely destructive to the available bone stock. Angled bearing inserts provide a means to compensate for malpositioned components and should be considered an alternative to component removal in certain cases.
The zen of everyday encounters: Spontaneous interaction in ubiquitous systems

The chance encounter with a colleague in the corridor; the discussion around a table or whiteboard in a meeting room; the interactions over sketches on table napkins in a restaurant: those are all examples of spontaneity in the absence of electronic devices. In ubiquitous computing, where there are “hundreds of computers per room” [7]; personal devices carried or worn by the humans; and computational services associated even with non-electronic entities 3/4 people places and things [4] 3/4 the opportunities for spontaneous sharing of ideas and media should multiply [3,5]. In this talk I shall take spontaneity, like mobility, to be a basic human desideratum. While some might prefer the routine, in general we stand to benefit from the serendipitous availability of other people and computational resources as we move around in our everyday lives.
Reasoning about Simple and Exhaustive Demand in Highter-Order Lazy Languages

In this work we describe an innovative strictness analysis method for reasoning about simple and exhaustive demand in higher-order lazy languages. By reasoning about simple demand, we mean determining whether a function requires its input in head normal form whenever its output is so required, i.e., is the function strict? Similarly, by exhaustive demand we mean determining whether a function requires its input in normal form whenever its output is so required, i.e., is the function fully strict?.
Differential expression of neuronal fos protein after cold water drowning and controlled rewarming.

Abstract Background Cardiopulmonary bypass has often been applied to revive victims of cold water drowning. The success of resuscitative efforts in patients who have sustained severe hypothermia is largely determined by neurologic outcomes. Measurement of Fos, the protein product of the immediate-early gene c-fos, is a marker of cerebral injury. Study design Twenty-eight infant lambs were sedated and ventilated. Group 1 lambs were immersed in a cold water bath for 2 hours (17.3 ± 2.7° C). Group 2 lambs were placed on normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass for 2 hours (37.7° ± 0.7° C). Group 3 lambs were immersed in a cold water bath for 2 hours (17.6° ± 2.4° C), and then rewarmed for a period of 2 hours on cardiopulmonary bypass (37.0° ± 0.6° C). The lambs were euthanized and immunohistochemical analysis for neuronal Fos was performed. Results There was significant induction of Fos-labeled nuclear profiles (cells/1,130 μm 2 ) in group 3 in the hippocampal regions and dentate gyrus compared with groups 1 and 2 (p Conclusion Isolated exposure to either hypothermia or cardiopulmonary bypass results in minimal expression of neuronal Fos; the significant induction of Fos in the group 3 animals may represent an ischemic-reperfusion phenomenon. Modifications of rewarming techniques that minimize Fos expression may improve neurologic outcomes in victims of cold water drowning.
ANALYSIS AND SYNTHESIS METHODS FOR ROBUST MODEL PREDICTIVE CONTROL

In this article we present a summary of our latest work on analysis and synthesis methods for robust constrained model predictive controllers. Processes modeled by multivariable linear time-invariant models as well as second-order Volterra series models are considered. Modeling uncertainty is characterized as upper and lower bounds on model parameters. Sufficient conditions for robust closed-loop stability with zero offset are presented for the kinds of processes mentioned above. In addition, robust performance bounds are discussed. Based on the robust stability and performance results, a tuning methodology for robust constrained model predictive control is developed. That methodology is elucidated through examples of linear and nonlinear model predictive control of a number of chemical processes.
Electron-Capture and Loss Cross Sections for Fast, Heavy Particles Passing through Gases

Electron-capture and loss cross sections as functions of projectile velocity and energy are presented graphically for six gaseous and twelve metallic, fast, singly-charged ions (in some cases, neutral atoms and multiply-charged ions are also included) in collision with nitrogen, oxygen, neon, argon, and atomic oxygen. The lowest projectile energy is 30 eV, while the highest is 4 MeV.
Ion-exchange strengthened phosphate laser glass: Development and applications

Phosphate laser glass has been chemically strengthened using an ion exchange process. The process improves the thermal shock resistance of the glass making it a viable candidate for use in high-average power (HAP) laser systems. The process is scalable to a variety of geometries. High-quality, high-performance optics suitable for use at energy levels previously beyond the capability of glass, can now be considered.
Hand to Mouse: Integrated Technology Laboratory in Undergraduate Architectural Education

The undergraduate building technology sequence (uBTS) seeks to impart abroad understanding of environmental systems through a variety of research and simulation techniques including direct observation, traditional calculations and scientific method, and advanced modeling and evaluation software. The integration of the uBTS sequence with studio project work and engagement with the larger inter-institutional research efforts encourages strong student engagement and early mastery of advanced skills. This paper will discuss the above general themes through specific laboratory case studies which are tied to key points in the three year uBTS.
Recent trends in clinical outcomes and resource utilization for pulmonary embolism in the United States: findings from the nationwide inpatient sample.

Background Pulmonary embolism (PE) has been cited as the most common preventable cause of death in hospitalized patients. The objectives of this study were to determine recent trends in clinical outcomes and resource utilization for hospitalized patients with a clinically recognized episode of acute PE. Methods Patients with primary or secondary PE who had been discharged from US acute care hospitals were identified from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample during the 8-year period between 1998 and 2005. The major clinical outcomes assessed included hospital mortality and length of hospitalization. To assess resource utilization for the treatment of PE, average hospital charges for these admissions were assessed, normalized to 2005 US dollars, and adjusted to reflect the US consumer price index. Results Between 1998 and 2005, the number of patients with primary or secondary PE on discharge from the hospital increased from 126,546 to 229,637; hospital case fatality rates for these patients decreased from 12.3 to 8.2% (p Conclusions Between 1998 and 2005, significant improvements were observed in outcomes for patients hospitalized for clinically recognized PE, including decreases in mortality and length of hospital stay. Charges for this hospital care increased during this time period.
Inner Hair Cells Are Not Required for Survival of Spiral Ganglion Neurons in the Adult Cochlea

Studies of sensorineural hearing loss have long suggested that survival of spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) depends on trophic support provided by their peripheral targets, the inner hair cells (IHCs): following ototoxic drugs or acoustic overexposure, IHC death is rapid whereas SGN degeneration is always delayed. However, recent noise-trauma studies show that SGNs can die even when hair cells survive, and transgenic mouse models show that supporting cell dysfunction can cause SGN degeneration in the absence of IHC pathology. To reexamine this issue, we studied a model of IHC loss that does not involve noise or ototoxic drugs. Mice lacking the gene for the high-affinity thiamine transporter (Slc19a2) have normal cochlear structure and function when fed a regular (thiamine-rich) diet. However, dietary thiamine restriction causes widespread, rapid (within 10 d) loss of IHCs. Using this model, we show that SGNs can survive for months after IHC loss, indicating that (1) IHCs are not necessary for neuronal survival, (2) neuronal loss in the other hearing loss models is likely due to effects of the trauma on the sensory neurons or other inner ear cells, and (3) that other cells, most likely supporting cells of the organ of Corti, are the main source of SGN survival factors. These results overturn a long-standing dogma in the study of sensorineural hearing loss and highlight the importance of cochlear supporting cells in neuronal survival in the adult inner ear.
1712 A PRIMATE MODEL FOR THE STUDY OF FETAL LUNG DEVELOPMENT IN THE GLUCOSE INTOLERANT PREGNANCY

1712 A PRIMATE MODEL FOR THE STUDY OF FETAL LUNG DEVELOPMENT IN THE GLUCOSE INTOLERANT PREGNANCY
Prediction of Sire Merit for Calving Difficulty

Three mixed models were evaluated to identify the best linear unbiased predictors of sire merit for calving difficulty. The best model included relationships due to sires and maternal grandsires of bulls with progeny data and accounted for the unequal variance associated with parity of dams. Adding relationships and simultaneously adjusting for unequal variances by parity reduced the mean square error by 49%. About 90% of the reduction was due to the adjustment for unequal variances. This resulted in a gain in precision of individual sire estimates and in a higher effective heritability for calving difficulty. Addition of relationships alone made no significant change in the mean square error but increased the variation among predicted breeding values 43%.
Tension and compression tests of two polymers under quasi-static and dynamic loading

Abstract Testing methods have been developed to determine the dynamic stress–strain responses and failure behavior of an epoxy, Epon 828/T-403, and a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) under high-strain-rate uniaxial tension and compression conditions. A split Hopkinson tension bar was modified for the dynamic tensile stress–strain behavior of the low-strength and low-mechanical-impedance specimens. An aluminum split Hopkinson pressure bar was used to determine the dynamic compressive responses. A pulse-shaping technique was employed in both dynamic tension and compression experiments to ensure that valid experimental conditions were satisfied. Results show that, compared with quasi-static behavior, dynamic tension causes smaller failure strains, whereas dynamic compression results in significantly higher compressive strengths for both materials.
Neutrino magnetic moment upper limit

A giant liquid scintillation detector was employed in a fission-reactor neutrino flux to set an upper limit of ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}9}$ Bohr magneton for the neutrino magnetic moment. The experiment consisted in searching for a count-rate difference associated with the reactor neutrinos.
Guidelines and an illustration of the use of ecological data for seeking clues of excess risk.

Abstract Ecological studies have acquired a bad reputation as weak scientific studies suffering from the ecological fallacy and many intractable limitations of data and method. In order to reduce these problems, it is suggested that analyses be focused on specific populations-at-risk, diseases, risk factors and places. In addition, seven guidelines are suggested which will limit the possibility of false positive results and provide the best clues for expensive, follow-up research. These guidelines are testing to make sure that the results are consistent across different times, places and methods. The guidelines were applied to finding the best clues for occupational-related cancers among white males aged 35–64 in the State of Illinois during 1950–1975. The most interesting clue found was that most coal mining areas in Illinois during the late 1960s and 1970s manifested the highest cancer mortality rates of trachea, bronchus, and lung and among the highest rates of increase of this type of cancer. This finding was unexpected because many studies have shown low lung cancer rates among coal miners.
A method for assessing dihydrofolate reductase inhibition in vivo

Abstract A method for studying inhibition of dihydrofolate reductase activity in vivo has been described. Mice were given 500 μCi (25 mg) 3 H-H 2 F/kg intraperitoneally, the tetrahydrofolate (H 4 F) formed in liver and gut were separated by DEAE-cellulose column chromatography of tissue homogenates, and the radioactivity in peaks corresponding to H 4 F and H 2 F was determined. A linear relationship was observed in the inhibition of H 2 F-reductase by methotrexate in both liver and intestine when the mice were treated with methotrexate 1 hr before H 2 F injection and the tissues were assayed 2 hr later. The recovery of enzyme activity from inhibition by methotrexate in gut and liver was biphasic: a rapid recovery (45% in gut and 72% in liver) within 6 hr was followed by a slower recovery (92% in gut and 98% in liver) in 2 to 3 days. The data presented indicate greater inhibition and slower recovery of H 2 F-reductase in intestine than in liver and illustrate the feasibility of assessing H 2 F reductase activity in vivo .
Surprising Bacterial Nucleotidyltransferase Selectivity in the Conversion of Carbaglucose-1-phosphate

The drive to understand the molecular determinants of carbohydrate binding as well as the search for more chemically and biochemically stable sugar derivatives and carbohydrate-based therapeutics has led to the synthesis of a variety of analogues that replace the glycosidic oxygen with sulfur or carbon. In contrast, the effect of substitution of the ring oxygen on the conformations and enzymatic tolerance of sugars has been largely neglected, in part because of the difficulty in obtaining these analogues. Herein we report the first synthesis of the carbocyclic version of the most common naturally occurring sugar-1-phosphate, glucose-1-phosphate, and its evaluation with bacterial and eukaryotic sugar nucleotidyltransferases. In contrast to results with the eukaryotic enzyme, the carbaglucose-1-phosphate serves as a substrate for the bacterial enzyme to provide the carbocyclic uridinediphosphoglucose. This result demonstrates the first chemoenzymatic strategy to this class of glycosyltransferase inhibitors ...
Uncertain Norms, Unintended Consequences: The Effects of European Union Integration on Kin-state Politics in Eastern Europe

This article investigates the effects of European Union (EU) accession on kin-state politics in Eastern Europe by focusing on the case of Hungary and the controversy over its 2001 ‘Status Law’. It is argued that the accession process did not diminish the salience of kin-state politics in Hungary, and in some ways even increased it. The lure of membership could not overcome the entrenched political interests of the elites most invested in maintaining and controlling relations with the ethnic Hungarian communities. At the same time, the imposition of the Schengen acquis and the often ambiguous position of the EU on minority rights protection helped drive the increasing intensity of Hungary's kin-state activism from 1998 to 2002. Together, these factors simultaneously raised the practical and political stakes of kin-state policies while providing little concrete guidance for states cut off from co-ethnics by the new external borders of Europe. The analysis supports the conclusion that the influence of the EU...
Developmental Regulation of Rat Brain/Hep G2 Glucose Transporter Gene Expression

The developmental regulation of rat brain-derived/Hep G2 glucose transporter gene expression was studied by means of Northern blot hybridization, using a rat brain glucose transporter cDNA probe, in order to directly quantify steady state glucose transporter mRNA levels. The results obtained showed different tissue-specific patterns of glucose transporter mRNA levels during ontogenesis; while in brain there was a sustained increase in the levels of the message from 20 days embryogenesis until 50 days postnatal, other organs such as heart, lung, liver, and muscle expressed maximal levels of the glucose transporter mRNA in 20-day fetuses and 1-day neonates, decreasing subsequently to very low levels. The relative expression of the glucose transporter mRNA in the different tissues, at both fetal and adult stages, was analyzed using a solution hybridization-RNase protection assay. This approach revealed that, while the heart expresses the highest levels of glucose transporter mRNA at 20 days of fetal life, the brain shows the highest levels at the adult stage. These results indicate a tissue-specific ontogenic pattern of glucose transporter gene expression, suggesting a developmental role for this glucose transporter gene product.
The Structure of FADD and Its Mode of Interaction with Procaspase-8

The structure of FADD has been solved in solution, revealing that the death effector domain (DED) and death domain (DD) are aligned with one another in an orthogonal, tail-to-tail fashion. Mutagenesis of FADD and functional reconstitution with its binding partners define the interaction with the intracellular domain of CD95 and the prodomain of procaspase-8 and reveal a self-association surface necessary to form a productive complex with an activated "death receptor." The identification of a procaspase-specific binding surface on the FADD DED suggests a preferential interaction with one, but not both, of the DEDs of procaspase-8 in a perpendicular arrangement. FADD self-association is mediated by a "hydrophobic patch" in the vicinity of F25 in the DED. The structure of FADD and its functional characterization, therefore, illustrate the architecture of key components in the death-inducing signaling complex.
Thermodynamics of the phase behaviour of poly(vinyl chloride)/aliphatic polyester blends

Abstract A series of linear aliphatic polyesters having CH 2 COO ratios in their repeat units from 2 to 14 have been examined for miscibility with poly(vinyl chloride). There is a window of structures in the middle of this spectrum where miscibility is observed. At the low end there is a very sharp boundary lying between CH 2 COO = 3 and 4 dividing the polyesters which are immiscible with PVC from those which are miscible. At the high end the boundary is not so sharp but rather phase separation caused by a lower critical solution temperature occurs at progressively lower temperatures as CH 2 COO increases beyond 10. Thermodynamic interaction parameters for the miscible blends were obtained by analysis of the depression of the polyester melting point after correction for finite crystal thickness using the Hoffman-Weeks method. These results are compared with heats of mixing obtained directly using low molecular weight analogues of the polymers. The two results show very similar trends but are not quantitatively identical for reasons mentioned. A binary interaction model has been used to analyse the heat of mixing data, and it is concluded that there is a strong unfavourable intramolecular interaction between the -CH2- and -COO- units in aliphatic polyesters which is an important factor in their miscibility with PVC and other polymers.
Electric and magnetic field exposure and brain cancer: a review.

A number of epidemiologic studies have investigated exposure to electric and magnetic fields as a possible risk factor for brain cancer. Studies of residential exposure and childhood brain tumors have produced inconsistent results, regardless of the exposure metrics used; this outcome holds for both current and past estimates of magnetic fields, whether based on wire codes, distance, or measured or calculated fields. Most recent studies provide little evidence of an association. Studies examining use of appliances by children or by their mothers during pregnancy have also found an inconsistent pattern of risk, and recent studies of parental occupational exposure and childhood brain tumors suggest a lack of an association. Methodological issues may weaken these conclusions. In adults, residential studies have found little or no association between electric and magnetic field exposure and brain cancer. However, meta-analysis of occupational studies indicates a slightly higher risk for electrical workers. A comparative analysis of major studies of electric utility workers also suggests a small increase in brain cancer risk. Of note in these analyses are large exposure misclassifications and the lack of a clear dose-response relationship in most individual studies.
Task inference and distributed task management in the Centibots robotic system

We describe the Centibots system, a very large scale distributed robotic system, consisting of more than 100 robots, that has been successfully deployed in large, unknown indoor environments, over extended periods of time (i.e., durations corresponding to several power cycles). Unlike most multiagent systems, the set of tasks about which teams must collaborate is not given a priori. We first describe a task inference algorithm that identifies potential team commitments that collectively balance constraints such as reachability, sensor coverage, and communication access. We then describe a dispatch algorithm for task distribution and management that assigns resources depending on either task density or replacement requirements stemming from failures or power shortages. The targeted deployment environments are expected to lack a supporting communication infrastructure; robots manage their own network and reason about the concomitant localization constraints necessary to maintain team communication. Finally, we present quantitative results in terms of a "search and rescue problem" and discuss the team-oriented aspects of the system in the context of prevailing theories of multiagent collaboration.
Partial oxidation of C1-hydrocarbons on oxygen-covered Rh(111) : formaldehyde from methylene

Abstract We report that formaldehyde is formed via oxygen addition to methylene formed from CH 2 I 2 on oxygen-covered Rh(111). Although CH 3 is generally thought to be important in methane oxidation, it dehydrogenates completely to CO, CO 2 , and H 2 O on oxygen-covered Rh(111); no formaldehyde is detected. These results have important mechanistic implications for direct, catalytic partial oxidation of methane using Rh. The reactions of azomethane, diiodomethane, and iodomethane have been studied using temperature programmed reaction and high resolution electron energy loss spectroscopies in order to understand C 1 -oxidation chemistry.
Tsix Transcription- versus RNA-Based Mechanisms in Xist Repression and Epigenetic Choice

Recent inquiries have revealed a surprisingly large number (>2500) of naturally occurring antisense transcripts, but their function remains largely undiscovered. A better understanding of antisense mechanisms is clearly needed because of their potentially diverse roles in gene regulation and disease. A well-documented case occurs in X inactivation, the mechanism by which X-linked gene expression is equalized between XX females and XY males. The antisense gene Tsix determines X chromosome choice and represses the noncoding silencer, Xist. In principle, Tsix action may involve RNA, the act of transcription, or local chromatin. Here, we create novel Tsix alleles to distinguish transcription- versus RNA-based mechanisms. When Tsix transcription is terminated before Xist (TsixTRAP), Tsix cannot block Xist upregulation, suggesting the importance of overlapping antisense transcription. To separate the act of transcription from RNA, we knocked in Tsix cDNA in the reverse orientation (Tsix(cDNA)) to restore RNA levels in cis without concurrent transcription across Xist. However, Tsix(cDNA) cannot complement TsixTRAP. Surprisingly, both mutations disrupt choice, indicating that this epigenetic step requires transcription. We conclude that the processed antisense RNA does not act alone and that Tsix function specifically requires antiparallel transcription through Xist. A mechanism of transcription-based feedback regulation is proposed.
Oxygen glucose deprivation inhibits the growth and ERK phosphorylation of neural progenitor cells in vitro

The neurogenic regions such as subventricular zone of the lateral ventricles could become ischemic in some clinical situations due to the blockage of blood vessels by blood clots. Hence the aim of this study is to investigate the effects of OGD on the growth of neural progenitor cells and the phosphorylation of ERK, which plays an important role in the growth of these cells. Oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD) for 4 h decreased the growth of neural progenitor cells in vitro and also decreased the phosphorylation of extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK). Inhibition of the ERK pathway for 4 h using U0126 (10 μM) also decreased the growth of progenitor cells. These data suggest that a decline in the phospho-ERK content might decrease the growth of progenitor cells following OGD.
Characterization and morphological reconstruction of the Terny impact structure, central Ukraine

The Terny impact structure, located in central Ukraine, displays a variety of diagnostic indicators of shock metamorphism, including shatter cones, planar deformation features in quartz, diaplectic glass, selective melting of minerals, and whole rock melting. The structure has been modified by erosion and subsequently buried by recent sediments. Although there are no natural outcrops of the deformed basement rocks within the area, mining exploration has provided surface and subsurface access to the structure, exposing impact melt rocks, shocked parautochthonous target rocks, and allochthonous impact breccias, including impact melt-bearing breccias similar to suevites observed at the Ries structure. We have collected and studied samples from surface and subsurface exposures to a depth of approximately 750 m below the surface. This analysis indicates the Terny crater is centered on geographic coordinates 48.13° N, 33.52° E. The center location and the distribution of shock pressures constrain the transient crater diameter to be no less than approximately 8.4 km. Using widely accepted morphometric scaling relations, we estimate the pre-erosional rim diameter of Terny crater to be approximately 16–19 km, making it close in original size to the well-preserved El'gygytgyn crater in Siberia. Comparison with El'gygytgyn yields useful insights into the original morphology of the Terny crater and indicates that the amount of erosion Terny experienced prior to burial probably does not exceed 320 m.
Histochemical Localization of Amino Acids and Sugars in Peanut Cotyledons for Light Microscopy1

Abstract Light microscopy staining methods for amino acids and sugars were adapted for glutaraldehyde vapor-fixed, freeze dried, plastic embedded tissue of peanut cotyledons (Arachis hypogaea L.). These methods revealed the locale of amino acids and sugars, which are regarded as precursors of roasted peanut flavor compounds. Amino acids were localized in the protein bodies and cytoplasmic network by Coomassie Brilliant Blue G-250, Orange G, and diacetylbenzene. Sugars were localized in the protein bodies and cytoplasmic network by Alcian Blue - PAS procedure and an adaptation of the Okamoto method for sugars. Localization of the amino acids and sugars provide further evidence to the importance of the protein bodies in the cotyledon in the production of roasted peanut flavor.
A population-based survey of in-line skaters' injuries and skating practices.

Abstract Objective: To describe in-line skating interests and practices, protective gear usage, and injury patterns in a population-based group of in-line skaters. Design: A two-page questionnaire with multiple choice questions and one write-in response question. Participants: The survey was sent to 1,000 members of an in-line skating club in Detroit, MI and 45 other states. Main Outcome Measures: The study was designed to profile skater injury patterns. The effects of protective gear and skater lessons on injury were examined. Results: Of the 435 skaters returning questionnaires, 56.7% were men. The mean age was 35 years. The frequency of in-line skating lessons was 31.7%. Of respondents, 72.5% wear some kind of protective gear while skating, and 79.8% reported that they had been injured while skating. Of those who had skated for 5 or more years, 93.7% had been injured. Upper extremity injuries were reported by 58.8% of skaters and lower extremity injuries by 66.7%. The majority suffered abrasions and bruises only. More serious injuries were reported by very few skaters: fractures by 5.5% and concussions by 2.1%. Only 3% of respondents required orthopedic surgery. Conclusion: Lessons and protective gear decrease the risk of injury. However, risk of incurring minor injury exists even if full protective gear is used. Those who have skated for more than 5 years are almost certain to report having been injured.
Silent Mutations Make Some Noise

Synonymous mutations do not alter amino acids and are generally considered nonfunctional in cancer. Supek et al. now present a compelling analysis suggesting that such silent mutations can be oncogenic by altering transcript splicing and thereby affecting protein function.
ALL in children with Down syndrome

Comment on Whitlock et al, page [4043][1] In this issue of Blood, Whitlock and colleagues from the Children's Cancer Group (CCG) present the largest series to date confirming prior observations that children with Down syndrome (DS) and standard-risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have an