cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Association of parvovirus B19 infection with idiopathic collapsing glomerulopathy

Association of parvovirus B19 infection with idiopathic collapsing glomerulopathy. Background Collapsing glomerulopathy (CG), a disorder with severe glomerular and tubular involvement, occurs either as an idiopathic lesion or in some patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection known as HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN). We previously reported a renal transplant recipient with de novo CG and red cell aplasia in association with persistent parvovirus B19 (PVB19) infection. This prompted us to look for an association between PVB19 infection and CG. Methods DNA from archived biopsies of patients with CG was analyzed for PVB19 by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results were compared with HIVAN, idiopathic focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), and controls. In situ hybridization (ISH) was done to localize PVB19 in renal biopsies. Peripheral blood specimens of patients with CG, HIV infection, healthy controls, and randomly selected hospitalized patients (sick controls) were also analyzed for PVB19. Results PVB19 DNA was detected in renal biopsies of 18 out of 23 (78.3%) patients with CG, 3 out of 19 (15.8%) with HIVAN, 6 out of 27 (22.2%) with FSGS, and 7 out of 27 (25.9%) controls ( P P Conclusions The significantly higher prevalence of PVB19 DNA in renal biopsies and peripheral blood of CG patients suggests a specific association between PVB19 infection and CG. In susceptible individuals, renal epithelial cell infection with PVB19 may induce CG.
Cosmology: Digitizing the Universe

For years, cosmologists have been racing each other to develop ever more sophisticated and realistic models of the evolution of the Universe. The competition has just become considerably stiffer.
Highly deformed modes in the ab initio symplectic no-core shell model

We show that highly deformed modes essential for nuclear dynamics modeling can readily be included in the symplectic no-core shell model (Sp-NCSM) space. In particular, a prescription for constructing general deformed k-particle–k-hole (kp–kh) translationally invariant symplectic starting state configurations and symplectic excitations thereof in a fermion-based spherical harmonic oscillator basis is presented. This prescription is used to build the symplectic excitations over all possible as well as the most deformed configurations in 12C and 16O. The extent to which these configurations enter into low-lying states for these nuclei calculated within the framework of the no-core shell model with a realistic microscopic interaction is then determined. Typically, the addition of these and representations to the leading results grow the overall overlap with the no-core-shell-model eigenstates by 5–10% for a total of 85–90%. And most importantly, even with the addition of these higher-order particle–hole configurations, the dimensionality of the symplectic subspace constitutes a very small fraction of the conventional full no-core shell model space, which reaffirms the relevance of the Sp-NCSM scheme.
The Columbus Myth: Power and Ideology in Picturebooks About Christopher Columbus

In 1992, the 500th anniversary of Columbus’s landing in the Bahamas was simultaneously celebrated and denounced in the US. Damaging facts about Columbus and the impact of his voyages were aired along with demands for truth and change. This study analyzes the power relationships and political ideology of picturebooks about Columbus published in the US in the 20 years since that anniversary to determine what messages and attitudes young readers are likely to absorb from them and whether the picturebook image of Columbus has evolved. It draws on the ideas of progressive educator Herbert Kohl, who demonstrates how the analysis of power relationships in stories reveals their political stance (Should We Burn Babar?, 1995), and on the tradition of progressive librarianship, which seeks to promote intellectual freedom and positive images in children’s literature of all peoples. The study finds extensive use of certain narrative techniques, including patterns of assumptions, avoidance, event selection, and omission. Patterns in illustration and sentence structure (use of passive voice, etc.) as well as stereotyping and Eurocentrism also abound. Finally, mild historical revisionism is introduced in more “balanced” titles, though the definition of balance is problematic. This article finds that the Columbus myth persists with little change, and that few titles present child readers with alternative perspectives.
Assembly of a Photoactivatable Cofactor Triad within a Designed Protein

Natural proteins hide the essential requirements for their function beneath layers of unnecessary complexity. To test our understanding of structure-function relationships and to develop proteins with novel properties, we engineer functional model proteins (maquettes) from scratch. Previously, we designed and demonstrated a 14.7 kDa 4-α-helix bundle that catalyzes light-activated electron transfer from zinc protoporphyrin IX to heme. However, without the use of a sacrificial electron-donor in solution, the electron and hole quickly recombine. In order to stabilize the charge-separated state for useful chemistry, we designed an extended 22.4 kDa version of this protein that incorporates a third cofactor, a di-metal center, to serve as an electron donor. A tyrosine residue was inserted between the zinc porphyrin and the di-metal site, similar to the redox-active YZ of photosystem II. The design of this protein was guided by analysis of natural cytochromes and carboxylate-bridged diiron and dimanganese proteins as well as previous designed proteins from the Dutton, DeGrado, Lombardi and Haehnel groups. The distances between cofactors were selected by applying the Moser-Dutton ruler to maximize electron transfer efficiency. Each cofactor binding site included multiple helical glycine residues to impart local flexibility to the protein backbone, minimize steric clashing between amino acid side chains and cofactors, and prevent cofactors from creating long-range structural distortions that could result in anticooperative binding. Ultraviolet/visible spectroscopy showed that all three cofactors bind stoichiometrically with dissociation constants less than 1 μM at pH 7.0, suggesting that modularity of these designed maquettes is extremely useful in constructing functional manmade enzymes. Ultimately, we would like to incorporate these functional maquettes in vivo to make them a part of natural redox cycles and to do useful catalysis.
Effects of repetition of mental operations on memory for occurrence and origin.

In two experiments, subjects read or generated items at both encoding and retrieval. At test, they were required to decide whether or not the targets were presented initially (recognition), and if so, whether they were initially read or generated (judgments of origin). Recognition for items that were initially generated was enhanced if they were once again generated at test in the same context, but not if they were generated at test without context. These results confirm that memory for occurrence is facilitated by repetition of the initial encoding operations at retrieval. Generating at test resulted in an increase in “generate” responses both for items that were initially generated and for items that were initially read. Overall, there was a decrease in the accuracy of origin discriminations. It is suggested that, when subjects generate at test, they are likely to mistakenly attribute these just-performed operations to be part of the memory trace for that item.
Malthusian parameters in genetic populations. I. Haploid and selfing models.

Abstract Leslie's discrete time theory of population growth is applied to genetic populations reproducing wholly by selfing. If there is selection, but no mutation, the number of individuals having a particular genotype usually has a long run steady rate of geometric increase, which we call the Malthusian parameter of the genotype. If the population size changes slowly, the rate of change in the mean of the Malthusian parameters tends, as time increases, to the variance of the Malthusian parameters. If, however, mutations of all kinds are possible, the population has only one Malthusian parameter.
Phospholipase A2 action on planar lipid bilayers generates a small, transitory current that is voltage independent.

Addition of either bee venom or Trimeresurus flavoviridis phospholipase A2 (PLA2) to the solution bathing the front side of a voltage-clamped, planar lipid bilayer consistently produced a transitory current lasting approximately 100 s. This current is consistent with anions moving through the membrane to the rear side. The peak current is independent of holding potential. PLA2 activity on phospholipid membranes not only produced a current but also led to membrane rupture within 300 s. The current depends on Ca2+ and lipid type. Addition of PLA2 in the absence of Ca2+ or to membranes made of nonsubstrate lipids (e.g., glycerol monooleate or lysophosphatidylcholine) produced no current and did not break the bilayer. Peak current height, signal decay time, and time to membrane rupture all depended on PLA2 dose, whereas total charge produced was constant. This current does not flow through ion channels because there are no channels present and the current is not voltage dependent. The evidence is consistent with the hypothesis that the current is generated by the movement of ionized fatty acid produced by PLA2 action. These results demonstrate a simple method to measure enzyme activity in the presence of different substrates and varied environmental conditions.
Neuroprotective properties of selective estrogen receptor agonists in cultured neurons

Abstract To investigate the role of the estrogen receptor (ER) in mediating neuroprotection, the neuroprotective profiles of selective ER agonists for ERα and ERβ, propylpyrazole triol (PPT) and 2,3-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl) proprionitrile (DPN), respectively, were compared to that of 17β-estradiol and 17α-estradiol in primary neuron cultures challenged by β-amyloid toxicity. All compounds were found to be neuroprotective in an ER-dependent manner. However, protein kinase C (PKC) inhibition completely blocked the protective effects of 17β-estradiol and 17α-estradiol and significantly attenuated PPT but not DPN neuroprotection. These data indicate that estrogen-mediated neuroprotection likely involves a variety of mechanisms and that protection due to PKC activation is more likely due to ERα compared to ERβ.
Laser measurements of ozone absorption cross sections in the Chappuis band

A sensitive spectrometer has been developed that exploits several He-Ne laser transitions in the visible for precise, high resolution measurements of Chappuis band ozone absorption cross sections at room temperature. An overall uncertainty of better than one percent has been achieved through a combination of transducer calibrations and an experimental technique that unambiguously determines the impurity content of each ozone sample. Results compare favorably with those from most previous analyses in the visible range, though some are obviously lower than this consensus due probably to errors in ozone density measurements.
Smooth amorphous silicon deposition on silicon dioxide with high deposition rates by rapid thermal chemical vapor deposition using disilane

In this paper, we report amorphous silicon (α-Si) deposition on SiO2 by rapid thermal chemical vapor deposition for the first time at rates compatible with single wafer manufacturing. Depositions were performed using 10% Si2H6 in H2 at 1 Torr in the temperature range 550 to 750 °C. Very high deposition rates are achieved and these rates range from 45 nm/min to as high as 650 nm/min. Analysis of the films by transmission electron microscopy indicates α-Si deposition at temperatures below approximately 600 °C. At temperatures around 625 °C, films with a bilayer amorphous-polycrystalline composite microstructure were obtained which was attributed to a deposition rate greater than the crystallization rate. Analysis of these low temperature films by atomic force microscopy yields rms roughness values, in general, that are less than 1.5 nm and as low as 0.3 nm. The smoothness of the films is comparable to the best α-Si films obtained by conventional low pressure chemical vapor deposition using SiH4 or Si2H6. In summary, by using an efficient source gas, we are able to deposit very smooth Si films by rapid thermal chemical vapor deposition which we believe is a viable option for high quality MOS gate stack formation in a single wafer manufacturing environment.
Advanced technologies and humans in manufacturing workplaces: an interdependent relationship

Abstract Industrially developed countries have historically relied on manufacturing of goods to achieve and maintain their economic status. In recent years, these developed societies have increased their reliance on technology, particularly automation, to enhance manufacturing productivity. Excessive reliance on automation technology may be undesirable if the overall goal is to enhance productivity of manufacturing enterprises. A human-centered approach to modern manufacturing may be more effective based on actual productivity gains, economics, technical feasibility and equipment capability and reliability, and problems created by automated manufacturing technologies. In this paper, we examine several technological issues pertaining to advanced manufacturing technology systems. We conclude that human presence in such systems is essential to compensate for technological limitations, and that a human-centered approach to designing manufacturing systems can provide most benefit for productivity, reliability, economy and flexibility. We also focus on limitations of the human component in a human-centered manufacturing system. Specifically, we discuss stress management, worker training, human error, human information processing limits, and human–machine interface design issues, all of which limit effectiveness of humans in manufacturing. Relevance to industry Recognizing the interdependence of advanced technology and humans in an advanced manufacturing technology system will enable industries to manage and design such systems for improved system performance.
Geography of consumption I

Not only is shopping melting into everything, but everything is melting into shopping. Through successive waves of expansion – each more extensive and pervasive than the previous – shopping has methodically encroached on a widening spectrum of territories so that it is now, arguably, the defining activity of public life . . . . Shopping is the medium by which the market has solidified its grip on our spaces, buildings, cities, activities, and lives. It is the material outcome of the degree to which the market economy has shaped our surroundings, and ultimately ourselves. (Leong, 2001: 129)
The Role of Socioeconomic Factors in the Prediction of Persistence in Puerto Rico

While research literature suggests that socioeconomic factors play a role in predicting educational attainment, very little research has been done to examine these relationships using data from Puerto Rico. A logistic regression approach was adopted to investigate the extent to which family and school socioeconomic factors predict retention from first to second year of college, after controlling for previous academic preparation, utilizing existing data from over 6,000 student records in one public institution in Puerto Rico. As expected, previous academic preparation variables were statistically significant in the prediction of retention, along with attendance at a public high school, while family socioeconomic factors did not appear to play a significant role. However, there were some notable differences between significant factors for men and women. Implications include the need for further research on the influence of socioeconomic factors on educational attainment in Puerto Rico.
The Effectiveness of Civic Education Are “Good” Teachers Actually Good for “All” Students?

Past research has explored the effectiveness of civic education in America’s classrooms. We build on these efforts using a survey of American students to test whether civics instruction enhances st...
CREB: the unindicted cancer co-conspirator

The transcription factor cAMP response-element binding protein (CREB) participates in a diverse array of cellular processes, including survival, proliferation and glucose metabolism. A new report by Shankar et al. shows that patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have a greater incidence of relapse when intracellular levels of CREB are elevated. By enhancing expression of certain cell-cycle genes, CREB appears to promote growth-factor-independent proliferation and survival of myeloid cells. The results provide new insights into CREB function and suggest potential avenues for therapeutic intervention.
Studies on the physiological functions of the melanocortin system

The melanocortin system refers to a set of hormonal, neuropeptidergic, and paracrine signaling pathways that are defined by components that include the five G protein-coupled melanocortin receptors; peptide agonists derived from the proopiomelanocortin preprohormone precursor; and the endogenous antagonists, agouti and agouti-related protein. This signaling system regulates a remarkably diverse array of physiological functions including pigmentation, adrenocortical steroidogenesis, energy homeostasis, natriuresis, erectile responses, energy homeostasis, and exocrine gland secretion. There are many complex and unique aspects of melanocortin signaling, such as the existence of endogenous antagonists, the agouti proteins, that act at three of the five melanocortin receptors. However, there is an aspect of melanocortin signaling that has facilitated highly reductionist approaches aimed at understanding the physiological functions of each receptor and peptide: in contrast to many peptides, the melanocortin ago...
Structural characterization of sulfoaildenafil, an analog of sildenafil.

Abstract Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5) inhibitors represent a class of drugs used primarily in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Currently, three PDE-5 inhibitors have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the United States: sildenafil citrate, tadalafil, and vardenafil hydrochloride trihydrate. A bulk material, labeled as an ingredient for a dietary supplement, was analyzed for the presence of PDE-5 inhibitors. The compound that was detected displayed structural similarities to sildenafil, and was characterized further using LC–MSn, FTICRMS, X-ray crystallography and NMR. The compound was given the name sulfoaildenafil. When compared to sildenafil, sulfoaildenafil contains a sulfur atom substitution for the oxygen atom in the pyrazolopyrimidine portion of the molecule, and a 3,5-dimethyl substitution on the piperazine ring, rather than the 4-methyl moiety. The X-ray crystallographic data indicate that the material in this sample is comprised of two polymorphs, which may affect the chemical and/or biological properties of any product formulated with this compound.
Readability and patient education materials used for low-income populations.

More than 90 million Americans have low levels of health literacy that may contribute to poor health outcomes. Assessment of the readability of patient education materials (PEMs) is a vital component of health education. Purpose The aim of this study was to describe the readability of PEMs used in community healthcare settings serving low-income populations to provide further insight into the complex area of health literacy. Design A descriptive, correlational, and nonexperimental design was used for this study. Setting The setting for this study was 5 free and low-cost community clinics in a Midwestern urban area. Sample Thirty-five unique PEMs produced by professional sources (government agencies, drug companies, and state/national organizations) or by providers comprised the final sample. Methods Readability was measured using Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG), Flesch-Kincaid, and Flesch Reading Ease. Significance was determined through t tests and Spearman rho correlations. Findings Variability in grade levels was noted using all measures. Mean Flesch-Kincaid grade level was 7.01, and that for SMOG was 9.89. Mean level for Flesch Reading Ease was 63.40, an estimated eighth and ninth grade level. The SMOG consistently measured 2 to 4 grades levels higher than did Flesh-Kincaid. Professionally developed PEMs had significantly higher reading levels using both SMOG and Flesch-Kincaid and were more difficult to read using Flesch Reading Ease when compared with those prepared by individual providers. Conclusions Patient education materials were written at a level too high for the average adult. All PEMs should be analyzed carefully to ensure that they are at the recommended fifth grade level. Further understanding of available measures of readability is critical in the creation and/or assessment of PEMs that will strengthen services from safety net providers and support positive health outcomes. Implications Nurses must expand their knowledge of all aspects of literacy and readability and take a proactive role in assessment and development of PEMs. Further research is needed to determine the best readability measures.
One Year Language and Developmental Outcomes of Cocaine-Exposed Infants† 1336

Prenatal cocaine exposure may have long-term negative effects on child developmental outcomes, but prior studies have been contradictory. We followed 408 infants (212 cocaine-exposed (CE) and 196 non-exposed (NCE)) to 6.5 and 12 months of age, administering the Bayley Mental (MDI) and Motor (PDI) Scales and, in a subset, the Preschool Language Scale (PLS). Maternal self-report interviews and infant meconium analyses quantified severity of cocaine exposure. Based on this drug information the cocaine-exposed infants were subdivided into heavy and light exposed groups. Bayley MDI's were lower for CE infants at 6 months (96 ± 8 vs. 98 ± 8, t (335) =-.2.3, p <.02), with GA controlled (p <.05), and at 12 months (94 ± 11 vs. 100 ± 12, t (280) = -4.3,p <.01). The CE infants' MDI's decreased over time, while NCE infants' did not. Mean PDI's did not differ. Twelve month MDI scores were also related to the amount of cocaine metabolites in meconium, i.e., cocaine(r = -.10, p <.09), benzoylecgonine (r =-.12, p <.05), and MOH benzoylecgonine (r = -.12,p <.05), and to the severity of cocaine use reported by the mother (r = -.17, p <.002). Severity of cocaine exposure predicted lower 12 month MDI after consideration of confounders, but was mediated by neonatal head circumference. On the PLS, heavy CE infants had a higher rate of mildly (39% vs. 24% and 23%, χ2 = 5.2,p <.07), and moderately delayed total language scores (17% vs. 6% and 6%, χ2 = 5.8, p <.05) than light CE or NCE infants, reflecting higher rates of mildly (43% vs. 20% and 24%,χ2 = 8.2, p <.02) and moderately delayed(11% vs. 2% and 4%, χ2 = 5.8, p <.06) expressive language skills. After controlling for confounders, there were trends for severity of alcohol and cocaine exposure to predict mild deficits and for cocaine exposure to predict moderate deficits (p <.05). These data indicate that fetal cocaine exposure predicts poorer cognitive and language development at 1 year with a dose-response relationship of biologic assays to cognitive outcomes.
Asymptotically Optimal Controls for Time-Inhomogeneous Networks

A framework is introduced for the identification of controls for single-class time-varying queueing networks that are asymptotically optimal in the so-called uniform acceleration regime. A related, but simpler, first-order (or fluid) control problem is first formulated. For a class of performance measures that satisfy a certain continuity property, it is then shown that any sequence of policies whose performances approach the infimum in the fluid control problem is asymptotically optimal for the original network problem. Examples of performance measures with this property are described, and simulations implementing asymptotically optimal policies are presented. The use of directional derivatives of the reflection map for solving fluid control problems is also illustrated. This work serves to complement a large body of literature on asymptotically optimal controls for time-homogeneous networks.
A proposed symmetry forbidden oxidation mechanism for the bacterial luciferase catalyzed reaction

Abstract 2-Oxo-3-phenyl-1,3-oxazetidine was found to thermally undergo a 2,2-cyclo-reversion reaction with an enthalpy of activation of 30.8 Kcal. This suggests that an oxazetidine fused to a flavin could be the labile light producing intermediate in the bacterial luciferase reaction since the reaction would be favored by ring fusion and the lower excited state of flavin.
Recent advances in the discovery and development of flavonoids and their analogues as antitumor and anti-HIV agents

Antitumor and anti-HIV flavonoids and their analogues will be reviewed with emphasis on those discovered in our laboratory. The active antitumor compounds include the antileukemic tricin (1) and kaempferol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (2) from Wikstroemia indica, the cytotoxic hinokiflavone (3) from Rhus succedanea, the cytotoxic isoflavone (8) from Amorpha fruticosa, two dihydroxypentamethoxyflavones (9, 10) from Polanisia dodencandra. The development of synthetic 2-phenyI-4-quinolones as potent cytotoxic antimitotic flavonoid analogues and 2-phenylthiochromen-4-ones as potent antitumor flavonoid analogues will be presented. Selected results from other laboratories and antitumor-related biological studies also will be discussed. Flavonoids have also been investigated as potential anti-HIV agents. In our laboratory, acacetin-7-O-β-D-galactopyranoside (131) from Chrysanthemum morifolium and chrysin (102), as well as apigenin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (130), from Kummerowia striata, have been found to exhibit anti-HIV activity. In other studies, some flavonoids and related compounds have been investigated as inhibitors of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase, protease, and integrase. The isolation and structural modification of such plant-derived active principles provide a continuing source of potential antitumor and anti-HIV agents.
Court Context and Discrimination: Exploring Biases across Juvenile and Criminal Courts:

Prior research on juvenile and criminal courts argues that because of contextual differences between these two forums, court actors' perceptions of guilt and culpability may be more influenced by racial/ethnic or gender stereotypes in juvenile courts than in criminal courts, regarding the prosecution of adolescents. In this article, the authors explore this dif- ferential bias hypothesis, using both quantitative and qualitative data. After comparing the factors that shape sentencing outcomes across court types, the article turns to qualitative data to understand whether the con- textual distinctions between these two types of courts create greater oppor- tunity for discrimination in juvenile court. Neither the quantitative nor qualitative results support this differential bias hypothesis. The quantita- tive analyses do not find a significantly different effect of race/ethnicity or sex across court types. The qualitative analyses help explain this result; although juvenile courts may expose adolescents to greater risks of being judged according to stereotypes, two contextual features protect adoles- cents by mitigating the impact of these potential hazards: aggressive and well-organized public defenders in juvenile court and the similarity of case processing during the sentencing phases of juvenile and criminal court.
From Organization Design to Organization Designing

Organization design in its verb form is explored through a study of the design practices of a major contemporary architect, Frank O. Gehry, and his firm, Gehry Partners, LLP. Through four case studies, we explore how the organization design of his architectural projects is an outcome of Gehry Partners design gestalt. We argue that this design gestalt is a primary source of their organization designing and is composed of an architectural vision, the tight coupling of multiple representation technologies, and a commitment to a collaborative process of design and construction. These elements of design together form a holistic, organizing patterntheir design gestaltthat is evident in all of Gehry Partners projects, both their buildings and their organizational forms. We offer three characteristics of organization designingfocus on form giving, relation to environment, and temporality. We argue that developing a design gestalt and strengthening the capacity for organization designing is crucial for firms in our increasingly knowledge- and experience-based economy.
Microstructure, Strength, and Oxidation of a 10 wt% Zyttrite-Si3N4 Ceramic

Hot pressed Si3N4 doped with 10 wt pct zyttrite as a sintering aid was studied. An equiaxed, fine grained microstructure was predominant, with no apparent porosity. Bend strengths were determined at room temperature and high temperatures (up to 1370 C). Oxidation was measured by weight gain at 1370 C in air. The resulting material exhibited very good room temperature strength (755 MPa). The work showed that room temperature strength can be improved significantly by using controlled Si3N4 powder with 10 wt pct zyttrite. High temperature strength (514 MPa) at 1370 C was nearly double that of hot-pressed Si3N4 (NC-132). The oxidation resistance at 1370 C was also higher than that of NC-132.
Rapid evaluation of Catmull-Clark subdivision surfaces

Using subdivision as a basic primitive for the construction of arbitrary topology, smooth, free-form surfaces is attractive for content destined for display on devices with greatly varying rendering performance. Subdivision naturally supports level of detail rendering and powerful compression algorithms. While the underlying algorithms are conceptually simple it is difficult to implement player engines which achieve optimal performance on modern CPUs such as the Intel Pentium family.In this paper we describe a novel table driven evaluation strategy for subdivision surfaces using as an example the scheme of Catmull and Clark. Cache conscious design and exploitation of SIMD instructions allows us to achieve nearly 100% FPU utilization in the inner loop and achieve a composite performance of 1.2 flop/cycle on the Intel PIII and 1.8 flop/cycle on the Intel P4 including all memory transfers. The algorithm supports tradeoffs between cache size and memory bus usage which we examine. A library which implements this engine is freely available from the authors.
Filled Coffers: Campaign Contributions and Contributors in the 2008 Elections

The presidential candidates alone in 2008 raised a stunning $1.75 billion, which was double the $881 million raised by candidates during the 2004 election cycle and more than triple the $529 million raised by candidates in 2000. 1 Virtually all of this money was raised from individual contributions. In this article, the authors use survey data to examine the individual characteristics and political attitudes of contributors in 2008.
The diagnosis of aorticopulmonary septal defect. A case report with successful surgical closure.

Abstract (1) A case is reported of successful repair of an aorticopulmonary septal defect despite pressures at a systemic level in the pulmonary artery. (2) The correct diagnosis was first suggested by the location of the dilution effect in the pulmonary artery on angiography, and was confirmed by retrograde aortography. (3) The clinical and catheterization features which are useful in the recognition of aorticopulmonary septal defects have been reviewed.
Short-pulsed Nd:YAG laser microsurgery of the eye: Biophysical considerations

Q -switched and mode-locked neodymium: YAG laser pulses can be used to produce optical breakdown inside the eye, permitting surgical disruption of transparent or pigmented ocular tissues. The physical processes responsible for the initiation, propagation, and control of this important and novel class of laser tissue interactions are reviewed.
Homologous desensitization of ovarian luteinizing hormone/human chorionic gonadotropin-responsive adenylyl cyclase is dependent upon GTP.

Homologous desensitization of ovarian LH/ hCG-responsive adenylyl cyclase in cell-free systems has been reported to be dependent upon either ATP or GTP. We investigated LH/hCG-dependent desensitization of adenylyl cyclase in rabbit or pig ovarian follicular membranes and included adenyl-5′-yl imidodiphosphate to prevent nucleotide triphosphate degradation. It was found that GTP supported LH/hCGinduced desensitization with an apparent Km of approximately 0.1 μM in rabbit or pig ovarian membranes. Other nucleotide triphosphates were 100–1000 times less potent than GTP in supporting desensitization. Several nonhydrolyzable GTP analogs and the GDP analog guanosine-5′-O-(2-thiodiphosphate) would not support hCG-induced desensitization of ovarian adenylyl cyclase. Instead, these guanine nucleotide analogs were all inhibitors of GTP-supported hormone-dependent desensitization. Cholera toxin had no effect on LH-dependent desensitization. These results establish that GTP is the preferred nucleotide for homologous ...
Eutamias amoenus (Yellow-pine chipmunk)

Skin biopsies were kindly provided by Dr. B. O’Gara from animals captured in Missoula County, Montana, USA. The results are, in general, similar to the specimens described by Sutton and Nadler. For convenience of comparison with their karyotypes the arrangement employed by these authors has been used here. The karyotype of the female has been constructed with the help of the labeling pattern in autoradiography. The X-chromosomes are thus positively identified since one is late replicating in female cells.
Heterobasidion annosum and H. parviporum in the Southern Rocky Mountains and Adjoining States

Worrall, J. J., Harrington, T. C., Blodgett, J. T., Conklin, D. A., and Fairweather, M. L. 2010. Heterobasidion annosum and H. parviporum in the southern Rocky Mountains and adjoining states. Plant Dis. 94:115-118. Collections of Heterobasidion spp. from Nebraska, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico were identified based on the sequence of the internal transcribed spacer region of the ribosomal DNA. The North American variant of Heterobasidion annosum sensu stricto was found on Pinus ponderosa and Juniperus virginiana in central Nebraska, southern Colorado, central Arizona, and southern New Mexico. The North American variant of H. parviporum was found on Abies concolor and Picea engelmannii in southern Colorado and central New Mexico. The pathogens were not found in a survey of conifer forests in Wyoming and the Black Hills of South Dakota. Historical records of annosus root disease are reviewed by host group to gain more insight into the potential distributions of the respective pathogens. An apparent lack of overlap in host range suggests that substitution of tree species may be a useful management approach in some cases.
A protein required for transcriptional regulation of Agrobacterium virulence genes spans the cytoplasmic membrane

The VirA protein is one of two proteins required for transcriptional activation of Agrobacterium tumefaciens virulence genes in response to phenolic compounds released by plants during infection. We describe two experimental approaches which indicate that this protein has a transmembrane topology. First, spheroplasts of Escherichia coli or wild-type A. tumefaciens expressing the VirA protein were treated with proteinase K to digest periplasmic proteins, and the remaining proteins were immunologically stained on Western blots (immunoblots) by using anti-VirA antibody. Second, transposon TnphoA was used to generate translational fusions between virA and phoA, the latter of which is the structural gene for alkaline phosphatase. Both techniques indicated that VirA spans the cytoplasmic membrane, with approximately 275 amino acids near the amino terminus being localized in the periplasmic space and the rest of the protein being localized in the cytoplasm. We also show that overexpression of VirA in E. coli is deleterious to cell growth and that this phenomenon depends on the synthesis of either the second hydrophobic core or some nearby portion of the VirA protein. Images
Mycobacterium szulgai Osteomyelitis in an AIDS Patient

Mycobacterium szulgai is a scotochromogen mycobacterium that accounts for < 1% of all human isolates of non-tuberculous mycobacteria. We report the first case of osteomyelitis caused by Mycobacterium szulgai in an AIDS patient. Culture from tissue was needed for isolation and identification of the organism, which was initially misidentified as Mycobacterium gordonae. Susceptibility testing to a fluoroquinolone was carried out and is also reported here for the first time. This case demonstrates the pathogenic potential of M. szulgai in this setting, and illustrates the need to obtain tissue specimens for culture in infected immunosuppressed patients to make a specific microbiological diagnosis and institute appropriate therapy.
Detection of altered T helper 1 and T helper 2 cytokine production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells in patients with multiple sclerosis utilizing intracellular cytokine detection by flow cytometry and surface marker analysis.

Production of T helper 1 and T helper 2 cytokines was investigated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from multiple sclerosis (MS) patients by a newly described technique, detection of intracellular cytokines by flow cytometry in conjunction with immunophenotype analysis. T-cell gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) production and interleukin 10 (IL-10) production were examined after PBMC activation with T-cell mitogens at 5 and 24 h, and monocyte spontaneous production of IL-10 and production after PBMC activation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 24 h were also examined. The data indicate that MS patients have decreased percentages of T cells capable of secreting IFN-gama compared with healthy controls, and this change is detectable at 5 and 24 h. the patients displaying decreased T-cell production of IFN-gamma were essentially confined to a group being treated with the newly approved drug Betaseron (berlex Labs, Cedar Knolls, N.J.), a recombinant form of IFN-beta (rIFN-beta 1b). By gating of the entire lymphocyte population, analysis of IFN-gama production in T cells (CD3+ versus that in non-T cells (CD3+) was possible. The percentage of IFN-gamma-producing lymphocytes that was made up of T cells was essentially unchanged between the Betaseron-treated patients, non-Betaseron-treated patients, and controls, indicating that the suppression of IFN-gamma production displayed by betaseron-treated MS patients was a nonspecific suppression of all IFN-gamma-producing lymphocytes as opposed to a suppression of T-cell production only. The data seem to indicate that treatment of MS with Betaseron corresponds to an inhibition of the lymphocyte9s ability to produce IFN-gamma. No changes were detected in T-cell production of IL-10 at either time point. We also observed that MS patients in general appear to have small percentages of peripheral blood monocytes spontaneously producing slight but detectable levels of IL-10. No difference was seen regarding monocyte production of IL-10 after PBMC activation with LPS between MS patients and controls. Both populations responded with high percentages of monocytes producing IL-10. The data seem to indicate that treatment of MS with Betaseron, known to decrease the exacerbation rate of relapsing-remitting MS, corresponds to a suppression of peripheral blood lymphocyte production of IFN-gamma. Monocyte production of IL-10 may also play a role in regulating the disease process.
Adolescents and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Qualitative Analysis of the Experience of Social Support

Objective. Research on how adolescents with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) understand and use social support is limited. Therefore, we explored how adolescents with T2DM experience and perceive social support. Methods. Adolescents with T2DM were interviewed, and data were qualitatively analyzed using Consensual Qualitative Research methodology. Results. Four themes emerged: support for nondiabetes and diabetes-specific behaviors, feelings of belonging, and disclosure. All participants expressed emotional and self-care-specific support. For some, disclosure and a sense of belonging with others who had diabetes often led to support elicitation. Participants also expressed a fear of disclosing their diabetes to others. Discussion. Adolescents with T2DM value tangible and emotional support for behaviors both related and not related to diabetes. Fear of disclosure was a typical experience with disclosure often limited to close friends and family. Recommendations for health professionals to assist adolescents ...
The New Historicism and Studies in the History of Business and Technical Writing

This article argues that researchers can benefit as scholars and teachers by conducting studies in the history of business and technical writing within the framework of the new historicism. It discusses the problems and features of the historical studies literature, explains the legitimizing effects of treating studies as the new historicism, and advocates teaching students to conduct new historical analyses of business and technical texts.
Development of an Automated Eddy Current Structural Health Monitoring Technique with an Extended Sensing Region for Corrosion Detection

The process of performing nondestructive evaluation (NDE) on a structural system is a well developed and continuously growing field. One very prominent method of performing NDE on a structure is th...
Serum immunoreactive erythropoietin and red blood cell mass during pregnancy in conscious rats

Serum erythropoietin concentration increases during human pregnancy and presumably accounts for expansion of red blood cell mass. The mechanism(s) underlying gestational changes of serum erythropoietin are unknown. Moreover, if erythropoietin synthesis increases, then the organ(s) questions about erythropoietin in pregnancy, we first set out to establish an animal model. Chronically instrumented, conscious unrestrained rats were studied. 51Cr-labeled red blood cells and radioimmunoassay were used to assess red blood cell mass and serum erythropoietin, respectively. Except for a lower hematocrit (P < 0.05 vs. virgin rats) and a slightly higher plasma volume (P value not significant) for gravid rats on gestational day 6, all other variables measured in early pregnancy rats were comparable to those measured in virgin control animals. Significant increases in total blood volume, plasma volume, and red blood cell mass were observed by gestational day 13 (midpregnancy) when compared with virgin control rats. These changes were even more pronounced on gestational day 20. Serum immunoreactive erythropoietin was also significantly increased at both of these stages of pregnancy. We conclude that the gravid rat is a reliable animal model of human gestation in which to further investigate erythropoietin in pregnancy.
P-Glycoprotein-Mediated Drug Resistance: Puzzles and Perspectives

The application of molecular biological approaches to the problem of multidrug resistance (MDR) in tumor cells has led to the elucidation of a common mechanism for resistance to apparently unrelated lipophilic cytotoxic drugs. This mechanism, P-glycoprotein-mediated drug efflux, appears to be associated with drug resistance both in cell culture and in clinical cancer. Determination of P-glycoprotein structure has also provided a prototype for a novel class of eukaryotic membrane transporters, which now includes proteins associated with a broad variety of phenotypes, from eye pigmentation in Drosophila melanogaster to cystic fibrosis in humans. This final chapter discusses some of the future directions of biological and medical research based on our current understanding of P-glycoprotein-mediated drug resistance.
Enabling broad use of genome modification technologies to solve real world problems: A specific application in peanut

Targeted gene editing is now possible in nearly any organism and is widely acknowledged as a biotech game-changer. Among available gene editing techniques, the CRISPR-Cas9 system is the current favorite because it has been shown to work in many species, does not necessarily result in the addition of foreign DNA at the target site, and follows a set of simple design rules for target selection. This has resulted in the availability of an array of CRISPR design tools that vary in design specifications and parameter choices, available genomes, graphical visualization, and downstream analysis functionality. To help researchers choose a tool that best suits their specific research needs, we review the functionality of various CRISPR design tools including our own, the CRISPR Genome Analysis Tool (CGAT; http://cropbioengineering.iastate.edu/cgat).
Lactate trumps blood pressure for trauma triage

When dealing with trauma patients, paramedics must make rapid life-altering decisions on the fly, often with limited information. How severely injured is this patient? Does this patient require resuscitation? Should we transport to the closest hospital or to the local trauma center? These and other questions must be answered with little guidance other than individual experience and vague triage guidelines. However, there is new evidence that a simple point-of-care measurement of blood lactate concentration might clarify the decision-making process during these oftentimes murky situations. Guyette and colleagues from the Resuscitation Outcomes Consortium tested the ability of a single measurement of blood lactate performed by paramedics in the field to predict the need for “resuscitative care” (RC), defined as the need for a major blood transfusion, urgent surgery to stop bleeding, or death within 6 hours of arrival to the emergency department. After injury, blood lactate concentrations can climb as a result of anaerobic metabolism when blood loss is severe enough to induce shock. The investigators compared the performance of the lactate test with a systolic blood pressure measurement 2.5mmol/L, compared with a sensitivity of only 67% when systolic blood pressure was <90 mmHg, a significant improvement. More knowledge of the relationships between shock and blood-lactate concentrations after trauma is required to fully integrate this test across the spectrum of clinical care. However, prehospital lactate testing demonstrates that point-of-care technology is now capable of providing clarity in the often challenging prehospital environment. F. X. Guyette et al ., A comparison of prehospital lactate and systolic blood pressure for predicting the need for resuscitative care in trauma transported by ground. J. Trauma Acute Care Surg. 78 , 600–606 (2015). [[Abstract]][1] [1]: http://journals.lww.com/jtrauma/Abstract/2015/03000/A_comparison_of_prehospital_lactate_and_systolic.21.aspx
Effects of Amphetamine and Its Isomers on Excretion of Sodium and Water in the Rat.

Summary and Conclusions1. Amphetamine and its isomers are diuretic and natriuretic in starved, normal and salt loaded rats. 2. The glomerular nitration rate of starved rats is elevated by d-amphetamine. The elevation of nitration rate is sufficient to account for the diuresis and natriuresis observed without postulating a decrease in tubular absorption of water or sodium.