cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Capsaicin-Sensitive Sensory Neurons Contribute to the Maintenance of Trabecular Bone Integrity

This investigation used capsaicin to selectively lesion unmyelinated sensory neurons in rats. Neuronal lesioning induced a loss of trabecular integrity, reduced bone mass and strength, and depleted neuropeptides in nerve and bone. These data suggest that capsaicin-sensitive sensory nerves contribute to trabecular bone integrity. Introduction: Familial dysautomia is an autosomal recessive disease in which patients suffer from unmyelinated sensory neuron loss, reduced BMD, and frequent fractures. It has been proposed that the loss of neurotransmitters synthesized by unmyelinated neurons adversely affects bone integrity in this hereditary syndrome. The purpose of this study was to determine whether small sensory neurons are required for the maintenance of bone integrity in rats. Materials and Methods: Ten-month-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with either capsaicin or vehicle. In vivo DXA scanning and μCT scanning, and histomorphometry were used to evaluate BMD, structure, and cellular activity. Bone strength was measured in distal femoral sections. Body weight and gastrocnemius/soleus weights were measured and spontaneous locomotor activity was monitored. Peroneal nerve morphometry was evaluated using light and electron microscopy. Substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) content in the sciatic nerve and proximal tibia were determined by enzyme immunoassay (EIA). Substance P signaling was measured using a sciatic nerve stimulation extravasation assay. Results: Four weeks after capsaicin treatment, there was a loss of BMD in the metaphyses of the tibia and femur. In the proximal tibia, the osteoclast number and surface increased, osteoblast activity and bone formation were impaired, and trabecular bone volume and connectivity were diminished. There was also a loss of bone strength in the distal femur. No changes occurred in body weight, 24-h grid-crossing activity, weight bearing, or muscle mass after capsaicin treatment, indicating that skeletal unloading did not contribute to the loss of bone integrity. Capsaicin treatment destroyed 57% of the unmyelinated sensory axons, reduced the substance P and CGRP content in the sciatic nerve and proximal tibia, and inhibited neurogenic extravasation. Conclusion: These results support the hypothesis that capsaicin-sensitive sensory neurons contribute to the maintenance of trabecular bone integrity. Capsaicin-sensitive neurons have efferent functions in the tissues they innervate, effects mediated by transmitters released from the peripheral nerve terminals. We postulate that the deleterious effects of capsaicin treatment on trabecular bone are mediated by reductions in local neurotransmitter content and release.
Erythematous lesions on the trunk and upper extremities

From Re Ve Be Fund Conf Corre D An 84-year-old man presented with a 2-month history of asymptomatic erythematous nodules on his left wrist and flank (Fig 1) and an erythematous plaque on his right shoulder (Fig 2). His medical history included nonmelanoma skin cancer and prostate cancer. Two years earlier, the patient had also been diagnosed with multiple myeloma after undergoing radiotherapy, and he had undergone 2 cycles of melphalan and prednisone; however, he discontinued chemotherapy 1 year earlier because of severe fatigue. His CD4 count was 239 cells/mm (normal, 500-1500 cells/mm). A shave biopsy specimenwas obtained from a nodule on his left flank (Fig 3).
Vitamin D: Cardiovascular Effects and Beyond

The importance of vitamin Din mineral metabolism has been known for a long time. Deficiency of this compound can cause rickets in children and both osteomalacia and osteoporosis in adults, leading to increased risk of fracture.1 A significant number of pediatric and adult patients have vitamin D deficiency due to decreased sun exposure, reduced dietary intake, malabsorption, drug intake (anticonvulsants), and renal and hepatic disease.2 Recently, better understanding of the physiology of vitamin D and the discovery of new receptor sites in many organs/tissues have underscored vitamin D's multiple beneficial effects, including improved cardiovascular health.3 Moreover, studies have reported that correction of vitamin D deficiency has resulted in decreased risk of cancer and diabetes,4-6 improvement in the immune system,7 and improved muscle function.8 We summarize herein some of these observational studies.
Science and the spectrum of belief: an interview with Leonard Ornstein

In 1965 Leonard Ornstein wrote a long and thoughtful essay on information and meaning. Shannon's idea that communication systems could transmit and process information without regard to its meaning just did not seem right to him. He was particularly interested in how scientists use and interpret information as part of science. Forty-eight years later, he is sharing how he sees science, discovery, information, and meaning with Ubiquity Magazine.
On the Potential Vorticity Structure of Weakly Ventialted Isopycnals: A Theory of Subtropical Mode Water Maintenance

Abstract A two-layer model of the general circulation including wind and thermal forcing is discussed. The flow in each layer is geostrophic, hydrostatic and obeys linear potential vorticity constraints. The equations are developed in spherical coordinates and reduce to a surprisingly simple, coupled, nonlinear set. Analytic solutions of this system are obtained in the quasi-geostrophic limit. The novel feature in this model is a weakly ventilated and weakly dissipative lower layer. The quasi-geostrophic model predicts homogenized potential vorticity is regions of the lower layer which are not directly ventilated. These are also regions of locally minimum value in potential vorticity. The net balance determining the potential vorticity structure is between the diabatic forcing of the lower layer and eddy-drive mixing. As such, the structure of the solution depends on the sign of the eddy diffusion of potential vorticity (positive) and the sign of the diabatic potential vorticity source (negative). It is t...
MAGNITUDE OF THE STARTLE RESPONSE AND DRIVE LEVEL

The hypothesis that greater drive would be reflected in larger magnitude of startle response to an abrupt auditory stimulus was investigated. The first experiment provided direct support of this hypothesis, demonstrating that rats deprived of water for 48 hr. showed a significantly greater startle response than both 0- (p < .01) and 24-hour (p < .025) deprived rats, who did not differ from each other. The second experiment showed an increase in startle in the presence of a former SΔ and a decrease in startle in the presence of a former SD. The results were taken to support the hypothesis of a direct relationship between drive level and startle magnitude, although problems associated with differential postural adjustments affecting the data could not be ruled out.
METABOLISM OF ACETATE BY SHEEP LIVER HOMOGENATES.

Abstract The metabolism of acetate has been studied in sheep liver homogenates. Contrary to previous reports, acetate was oxidized by fresh liver homogenates, and acetyl-CoA was oxidized by both fresh and frozen-stored liver homogenates in the presence of the cofactors NAD and carnitine. With these two cofactors, oxidation plateaus after 20-30min, unless a 4-carbon TCA cycle acid, such as succinate, is present as a primer, in which case the straight line rate of oxygen uptake continues for 60-80min. Direct measurement of acetyl-CoA formation showed this to be the limiting step in utilization of acetate by sheep liver, and the step lost in frozen-stored liver homogenates.
Laser Spectroscopy of ScF: Analysis of Perturbations in the F1Φ-A1Δ System

Abstract The wavelength-resolved fluorescence excitation technique was used to record the 0-0 and 1-1 bands of the ScF F 1 Φ- A 1 Δ transition at a resolution of 0.03 cm −1 . Ω assignments were unambiguously determined from observations of the first lines in at least two rotational branches. Accurate term energies and rotational constants are reported. Perturbations in the F 1 Φ state, caused by interactions with the h 3 Π 2 state, were analyzed. Using a method based on Franck-Condon factors, the vibrational numbering in the perturbing h 3 Π 2 state was estimated. Parameters determined from the spectroscopic analyses were in good agreement with the results from the ab initio calculations of S. R. Langhoff, C. W. Bauschlicher, Jr., and H. Partridge ( J. Chem. Phys. 89, 396-407, 1988).
Influence of SWNTs on the Preferential Alignment of Molecular Moieties in PVA Fibers

The alignment of electron-donating moieties in SWNT-embedded PVA fibers is characterized using infrared dichroism and polarized Raman spectroscopy. The SWNT alignment is found to influence the preferential alignment of PVA functional groups and solvent molecules with respect to the fiber axis. Furthermore, the fraction of oriented functional moieties depends more on the SWNT alignment than on the PVA chain orientation. Charge transfer between functional moieties and SWNTs results in molecular adhesion between the SWNTs and interacting groups, as confirmed by DFT calculations.
Renal adenoma: Therapeutic implications

Recent reports have stated that renal adenomas should be considered early, small adenocarcinomas. Beginning with this assumption the problem of therapy of these tumors is addressed. Using 5 cases as examples, a suggested approach is outlined. One should use the criteria of size, gross characteristics, a frozen section biopsy, and the status of the other kidney to decide between tumor excision, nephrectomy, and no further treatment.
Cattle blood group J glycolipid II. Quantitative and structural study of J active glycolipid.

Abstract J active lipid was isolated from bovine J cs serum, and the chemical structure of the lipid was investigated by chemical and enzymatic degradation and analysis. Deacylation by mild alkaline methanolysis of the J active lipid liberated the O-acyl-linked fatty acids which were identified as stearate, isostearate and palmitate. The deacylated lipid contained long-chain base, glucose, galactose, fatty acids, phosphorus and glycerol. Studies with d -galactose oxidase showed that the galactose in the intact active J lipid and in the deacylated lipid was not oxidized by this enzyme, but the galactose in the trihexoside ceramide isolated from the J active lipid was oxidized by the enyzme. This suggests that the galactose is blocked or is non-terminal in the intact lipid and in the deacylated lipid and is terminal in the ceramide trihexoside. The active J lipid is inactivated by exposure to phospholipase C, indicating the presence of phosphate diester. On the basis of this information and earlier published data, the following structure is tentatively suggested for the J active lipid: The exact placement of the bracketed phosphate moiety has not been determined.
Optimal use of β-blockers in high-risk hypertension: A guide to dosing equivalence

Hypertension is the number one diagnosis made by primary care physicians, placing them in a unique position to prescribe the antihypertensive agent best suited to the individual patient. In individuals with diabetes mellitus, blood pressure (BP) levels>130/80 mmHg confer an even higher risk for cardiovascular and renal disease, and these patients will benefit from aggressive antihypertensive treatment using a combination of agents. beta-blockers are playing an increasingly important role in the management of hypertension in high-risk patients. beta-blockers are a heterogeneous class of agents, and this review presents the differences between beta-blockers and provides evidence-based protocols to assist in understanding dose equivalence in the selection of an optimal regimen in patients with complex needs. The clinical benefits provided by beta-blockers are only effective if patients adhere to medication treatment long term. beta-blockers with proven efficacy, once-daily dosing, and lower side effect profiles may become instrumental in the treatment of hypertensive diabetic and nondiabetic patients.
Comparative growth of normal and malignant mouse mammary epithelium cultured serum-free on a biomatrix from preadipocytes.

Growth of normal and malignant mouse mammary epithelial cells (MMEC) on a biomatrix of substrate-attached material from 3T3-L1 preadipocytes was evaluated to devise culture conditions that are suitable for transformation studies but do not involve embedding cells in a gel. The biomatrix was prepared as described by Levine and Stockdale (18), and serum-free medium contained bovine serum albumin, insulin, progesterone, prolactin, and linoleic acid. Each cell type produced a distinctive pattern of colony architecture in this culture system. Cells from virgin mice (vMMEC) usually formed elaborate, three-dimensional structures resembling ducts and alveoli; cells from pregnant mice (pMMEC) grew as flat monolayers; and tumor cells grew in multilayered clusters. Cell growth was monitored by an assay for succinate dehydrogenase. Similar growth rates were found through Day 8 in cultures of vMMEC and D2 carcinoma cells. Growth of vMMEC slowed thereafter, whereas tumor cells typically continued growing through Day 14 to 18. Increase in cell number during 18 days in culture was 3-, 7-, 9-, and 11-fold for cells from pregnant and virgin mice, BALB/cfC3H and D2 carcinomas, respectively. The percent cells in S phase on Day 2 of culture was 9% for pMMEC, 4 to 11% for BALB/cfC3H tumor cells, 20% for vMMEC, and 24% for D2 tumor cells. Thus, this culture system promotes extended growth of MMEC and offers several advantages over embedding cells in a collagen gel. It may therefore be applicable to in vitro transformation studies with MMEC.
Cloning and expression of the mouse serotonin transporter

Abstract A mouse brain cDNA encoding the high-affinity serotonin transporter (SERT) has been identified and characterized. The mouse transporter sequence (mSERT) encodes a protein of 630 amino acids which contains twelve potential transmembrane domains (TMDs), N-linked glycosylation and kinase-mediated phosphorylation sites, and high levels of homology with rat and human SERTs. Heterologous expression of mSERT in COS-1 cells resulted in a [ 3 H ]serotonin transport activity characterized by kinetic saturability (Km=403±42 nM; Vmax=1.02±0.10 pmol/mg/min), Na+ and Cl− dependences (5HT:Na+:Cl− coupling ratio of 1:1:1), and sensitivity to known inhibitors of serotonin transport (including antidepressant and psychostimulant agents). Northern analysis using mSERT cDNA as probe revealed a single 3.4 kb mRNA species expressed in mouse lung, midbrain and brainstem regions, and absent from heart and liver. In situ hybridization studies further established the specific localization of mSERT gene expression to the raphe nuclei of the mouse midbrain. The identified mSERT cDNA sequence provides a new tool for the evaluation of serotonin transport pharmacology in heterologous expression systems and provides an opportunity for the evaluation of mSERT gene expression in a well-characterized model of mammalian development.
Multicompartment Pharmacokinetic Model of 4′-Demethylepipodophyllotoxin 9-(4,6-O-Ethylidene- β-D-glucopyranoside) in Humans

The formation and elimination of the metabolite of 4′-demethylepipodophyllotoxin 9-(4,6-O-ethylidene-β-D-glucopyranoside) (I) were studied in seven patients with advanced cancer who received I intravenously. The plasma concentration–time data best fit a triexponential equation. The volume of the metabolite compartment (27.5 liters) was calculated as a fraction of the extrapolated volume. A larger body clearance (111.7 ml/min) of metabolite as compared to the renal clearance (31.3 ml/min) indicates that the metabolite is lost from the plasma equivalent space by another elimination route. The combination of metabolite data presented here with previously published data for unchanged I leads to a multicompartment model for the distribution, metabolism, and excretion of I and its metabolite. A comparison of algebraically derived model transfer constants with those evaluated by computer fitting the system of differential equations is presented.
17β-Estradiol modulates vasoconstriction induced by endothelin-1 following trauma-hemorrhage

Although endothelin-1 (ET-1) induces vasoconstriction, it remains unknown whether 17β-estradiol (E2) treatment following trauma-hemorrhage alters these ET-1-induced vasoconstrictive effects. In add...
Myocardial fibrosis in hypertensive heart disease: an overview of potential regulatory mechanisms

Myocardial fibrosis in hypertensive heart disease (HHD) can present as a reactive process, involving intramyocardial coronary arteries and arterioles with extensions of collagen into the neighbouring interstitial space, and as a replacement for necrotic cardiac myocytes. Fibrosis adversely affects myocardial stiffness and therefore regulatory mechanisms are of considerable interest. Mechanisms responsible for scarring (reparative fibrosis) are based on factors that adversely influence myocyte survival. This topic is not covered in this brief review. Mechanisms responsible for the perivascular/interstitial fibrosis that appear in both the normotensive, non-hypertrophied right and the pressure overloaded, hypertrophied left ventricule in HHD are addressed herein. They include: (a) angiotensin II (Ang II)-mediated coronary vascular hyperpermeability with subsequent fibrosis; (b) direct hormonal regulation of fibroblast collagen turnover, whereby Ang II, aldosterone and/or endothelins may be involved; (c) autocrine and paracrine signalling between fibroblasts and/or endothelial cells that alters collagen synthesis and degradation and which includes an angiotensin converting enzyme found in fibrous tissue. Collagen turnover in the myocardium is a dynamic process and fibrous tissue is anything but inert.
Vancomycin prevents polytetrafluoroethylene graft infections in pediatric patients receiving chronic hemodialysis.

Abstract Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts have been a useful addition to the pediatric hemodialysis vascular access armamentarium. In this study, 17 pediatric patients underwent 331 total months of hemodialysis via PTFE grafts. There was a statistically significant ( P v 44%). Vancomycin side effects were uncommon and mild. Vancomycin is a safe and effective agent for the prevention of PTFE graft infections in pediatric patients receiving chronic hemodialysis.
Posterior accessory foramina of the human mandible.

Abstract A study was performed on 150 dry, adult, human mandibles from cadavers of unspecified sex and unknown ethnic background, which had been imported from India. These mandibles were placed in the “standard basal position” and topographically divided into 11 bilateral areas posterior to the second bicuspid teeth. The accessory foramina in these areas were studied to determine their mean diameter, incidence of occurrence, and the areas in which they occurred. The medial surfaces of the mandibles exhibited foramina more frequently and in greater numbers than did the lateral surfaces. The right and left halves of the mandibles showed remarkable similarity. Much of the data obtained correlated with previous investigations, indicating that neurovascular components enter and leave the body on the mandible in the posterior region. Foramina 0.4 mm. or larger in diameter were evaluated separately. These larger foramina occur most often in the superior and middle thirds on the medial surface of the ramus (areas 6 and 7). They also occur fairly frequently in the retromolar area (area 11). This information can be usefully applied to future dissection studies concerning the soft-tissue components of these foramina. The data obtained reveal that these foramina occur frequently and in approximately the same locations. This suggests that these foramina are functionally important in supplying neural and/or vascular components to the mandible.
TWO DIMENSIONAL ANALYSIS OF THIN, SHELL OR PLATE LIKE MUFFLER ELEMENTS

Abstract A general procedure for the analysis of curved or flat, thin two dimensional muffler elements is developed. These thin elements can efficiently utilize the limited space of hermetically sealed compressors or small engine compartments. The two dimensional inhomogenous wave equation is developed in two dimensional curvilinear co-ordinates by the application of Hamilton's principle. Four pole parameters are formulated form the pressure response solutions using the modal series expansion method. The eigenvalues and transfer functions of three types of thin muffler elements connected to an anechoic pipe are given as examples: the flat rectangular box, the thin annular cylindrical shell, and the flat circular box. A verification is made by comparing results for an annular cylindrical muffler element with results obtained from a three-dimensional model; good agreement was achieved as long as the thickness of the muffler element is sufficiently small compared to the wavelength range of interest.
End-of-life issues of children.

: When working with children who have cancer or other life-threatening illnesses, providers are frequently deal with end-of-life concerns. Children deserve the best of care at all times, and the end-of-life is no exception. Controversy surrounds the debate between use of hospice care or palliation with children. Laws and guidelines dictate how we can treat symptoms and expect reimbursement. This article will review some of the main issues and give ideas for caring for children who deal with life-threatening illness.
Predictions of Low Aspect Ratio Missile Aerodynamics

The ability of a finite volume Euler code, ZEUS, to predict low aspect ratio missile aerodynamics accurately is evaluated. By using grid clustering near the body, the results from ZEUS compare well with wind-tunnel data for Mach numbers between 3 and 4.5 and angles of attack up to 20 deg. The interference factor, KW(B)> represents the ratio of the fin normal force in the presence of the body to the fin-alone normal force. Euler KW(B) calculations are within 12% of wind-tunnel data over the entire angle-of-attack range. The interference factor, KB(W>> is the ratio of the incremental body force due to the presence of the fins to the fin-alone normal force. The Euler predictions of the ratio KB(W)/KW(B) are generally within 15% of experimental data. The final parameter examined is £0, which is the ratio of the incremental fin normal force in the presence of the body due to sideslip to the fin-alone normal force. Currently no wind-tunnel data have been found for comparison. Euler K^ predictions differ considerably from slender body theory predictions due to vorticity and shock waves; however, they compare well with previous Euler solutions. This research shows that ZEUS can be used to extend the preliminary design database reliably to low aspect ratio missiles.
Stable pentaquarks from strange chiral multiplets

The assumption of strong diquark correlations in the QCD spectrum suggests flavor multiplets of hadrons that are degenerate in the chiral limit. Generally it would be unnatural for there to be degeneracy in the hadron spectrum that is not protected by a QCD symmetry. Here we show---for pentaquarks constructed from diquarks---that these degeneracies can be naturally protected by the full chiral symmetry of QCD. The resulting chiral multiplet structure recovers the ideally mixed pentaquark mass spectrum of the diquark model, and interestingly, requires that the axial couplings of the pentaquarks to states outside the degenerate multiplets vanish in the chiral limit. This result suggests that if these hadrons exist, they are stable in the chiral limit and therefore have widths that scale as the fourth power of the kaon mass over the chiral-symmetry breaking scale. Natural-size widths are of order a few MeV.
Prions of yeast as heritable amyloidoses.

Two infectious proteins (prions) of Saccharomyces cerevisiae have been identified by their unusual genetic properties: (1) reversible curability, (2) de novo induction of the infectious prion form by overproduction of the protein, and (3) similar phenotype of the prion and mutation in the chromosomal gene encoding the protein. [URE3] is an altered infectious form of the Ure2 protein, a regulator of nitrogen catabolism, while [PSI] is a prion of the Sup35 protein, a subunit of the translation termination factor. The altered form of each is inactive in its normal function, but is able to convert the corresponding normal protein into the same altered inactive state. The N-terminal parts of Ure2p and Sup35p (the "prion domains") are responsible for prion formation and propagation and are rich in asparagine and glutamine residues. Ure2p and Sup35p are aggregated in vivo in [URE3]- and [PSI]-containing cells, respectively. The prion domains can form amyloid in vitro, suggesting that amyloid formation is the basis of these two prion diseases. Yeast prions can be cured by growth on millimolar concentrations of guanidine. An excess or deficiency of the chaperone Hsp104 cures the [PSI] prion. Overexpression of fragments of Ure2p or certain fusion proteins leads to curing of [URE3].
Similarity-based searching in multi-parameter time series databases

We present a similarity-based searching and pattern matching algorithm that identifies time series data with similar temporal dynamics in large-scale, multi-parameter databases. We represent time series segments by feature vectors that reflect the dynamical patterns of single and multi-dimensional physiological time series. Features include regression slopes at varying time scales, maximum transient changes, auto-correlation coefficients of individual signals, and cross correlations among multiple signals. We model the dynamical patterns with a Gaussian mixture model (GMM) learned with the Expectation Maximization algorithm, and compute similarity between segments as Mahalanobis distances. We evaluate the use of our algorithm in three applications: search-by-example based data retrieval, event classification, and forecasting, using synthetic and real physiologic time series from a variety of sources.
Erratum: North-south asymmetry in solar activity: predicting the amplitude of the next solar cycle

Using Greenwich and Solar Optical Observing Network sunspot group data obtained during the period 1874‐2005, we find that the sums of the areas of the sunspot groups in the 0 ◦ ‐ 10 ◦ latitude-interval of the Sun’s northern hemisphere and in the time-interval of −1.35 yr to +2.15 yr from the time of the preceding minimum ‐ and in the same latitude interval of the southern hemisphere but +1.0 yr to +1.75 yr from the time of the maximum ‐ of a sunspot cycle correlate well with the amplitude (maximum of the smoothed monthly sunspot number) of its immediate following cycle. Using this relationship it is possible to predict the amplitude of a sunspot cycle about 9‐13 yr in advance. We predicted 74 ± 10 for the amplitude of the upcoming cycle 24. Variations in solar meridional flows during solar cycles and 9‐16 yr variations in solar equatorial rotations may be responsible for the aforementioned relationship, which seems to be related to the 22-yr solar magnetic cycle.
Osmotic tolerance limits and properties of rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) spermatozoa.

Fundamental cryobiological characteristics of rhe- sus spermatozoa must be determined for successful cryopres- ervation techniques to be established. The main objectives of the present study were to determine the osmotic behavior and os- motic tolerance limits of rhesus macaque spermatozoa. Cell vol- ume changes over anisotonic conditions were assessed using an electronic particle counter and sperm motility was evaluated with a computer-assisted sperm analysis system. Analysis of mem- brane integrity and mitochondrial membrane potential was per- formed using flow cytometry. Rhesus monkey spermatozoa be- have as linear osmometers in the osmotic range tested (75-900 mOsmol kg21), as shown by the Boyle van't Hoff plot (r 2 5 .99). Rhesus spermatozoa have a mean cell volume of 36.86 0.5 mm3 at 228C, with 77.2% of the intracellular volume being osmotically inactive. Results regarding sperm tolerance to osmotic stress showed that sperm motility was more sensitive than membrane integrity to deviations from isotonicity and, in addition, that rhesus sperm motility and membrane integrity were more sensitive to hypertonic than hypotonic conditions. Mitochondrial membrane potential did not explain the lack of sperm motility observed under anisosmolal conditions in our study. Although most spermatozoa were able to recover initial volume after osmotic stress, they were
Two Forkhead Transcription Factors Regulate the Division of Cardiac Progenitor Cells by a Polo-Dependent Pathway

The development of a complex organ requires the specification of appropriate numbers of each of its constituent cell types, as well as their proper differentiation and correct positioning relative to each other. During Drosophila cardiogenesis, all three of these processes are controlled by jumeau (jumu) and Checkpoint suppressor homologue (CHES-1-like), two genes encoding forkhead transcription factors that we discovered utilizing an integrated genetic, genomic, and computational strategy for identifying genes expressed in the developing Drosophila heart. Both jumu and CHES-1-like are required during asymmetric cell division for the derivation of two distinct cardiac cell types from their mutual precursor and in symmetric cell divisions that produce yet a third type of heart cell. jumu and CHES-1-like control the division of cardiac progenitors by regulating the activity of Polo, a kinase involved in multiple steps of mitosis. This pathway demonstrates how transcription factors integrate diverse developmental processes during organogenesis.
Windowing techniques in the design of resonator based frequency interpolation filter banks

The authors present windowing techniques and window optimization in the design of resonator-based logarithmic filter banks. The filters in a final filter bank are obtained by weighted sums of elementary filters of a 'mother' bank, and the weights are called windowing weights. The resulting filter bank with improved performance is optimized using linear programming, which is possible since the output response is a linear function of the weights. Examples of window optimizations and bank designs are given, and some trade-offs between the windows and the final filter banks are discussed. From the calculation results, it is found that final filter banks with much better frequency response performance are achieved by optimal windowing. >
Human Leukocyte Antigens and Cellular Immune Responses to Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed

Interindividual variations in vaccine-induced immune responses are in part due to host genetic polymorphisms in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and other gene families. This study examined associations between HLA genotypes, haplotypes, and homozygosity and protective antigen (PA)-specific cellular immune responses in healthy subjects following immunization with Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed (AVA). While limited associations were observed between individual HLA alleles or haplotypes and variable lymphocyte proliferative (LP) responses to AVA, analyses of homozygosity supported the hypothesis of a "heterozygote advantage." Individuals who were homozygous for any HLA locus demonstrated significantly lower PA-specific LP than subjects who were heterozygous at all eight loci (median stimulation indices [SI], 1.84 versus 2.95, P = 0.009). Similarly, we found that class I (HLA-A) and class II (HLA-DQA1 and HLA-DQB1) homozygosity was significantly associated with an overall decrease in LP compared with heterozygosity at those three loci. Specifically, individuals who were homozygous at these loci had significantly lower PA-specific LP than subjects heterozygous for HLA-A (median SI, 1.48 versus 2.13, P = 0.005), HLA-DQA1 (median SI, 1.75 versus 2.11, P = 0.007), and HLA-DQB1 (median SI, 1.48 versus 2.13, P = 0.002) loci, respectively. Finally, homozygosity at an increasing number (≥ 4) of HLA loci was significantly correlated with a reduction in LP response (P < 0.001) in a dose-dependent manner. Additional studies are needed to reproduce these findings and determine whether HLA-heterozygous individuals generate stronger cellular immune response to other virulence factors (Bacillus anthracis LF and EF) than HLA-homozygous subjects.
The Use of Kurtosis Measurement in the Assessment of Potential Noise Trauma

The current noise standards for the United States were originally formulated in 1968/1969 as part of the Walsh–Healy Act for Federal Contractors (U.S. Department of Labor 1969). The standards for a permissible noise exposure are based on data from a number of large-scale demographic studies of hearing loss in industrial settings in the United States and Europe (Burns and Robinson 1970; Baughn 1973; Passchier-Vermeer 1974).
Determination of hexamethylene tetramine in thermosetting moulding compounds

Hexamethylene tetramine (hexamine) in phenol-formaldehyde and urea-formaldehyde moulding compounds can be determined by non-aqueous titration in acetic acid solution with perchloric acid. Phenolic compounds may be dissolved directly in glacial acetic acid and the hexamine may be titrated. However, hexamine must first be extracted from dry urea-formaldehyde samples with chloroform before titration as the resin interferes with the titration. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy may also be used to determine the hexamine content of the extracted solution.
The role of IEEE in engineering accreditation

One of the most significant activities which the IEEE conducts in the area of education is accreditation. In addition, this activity is of critical importance to a significant portion of the members of the Education Society. Within the United States, IEEE is a participating body of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), which has been designated by the US Government as the entity for accrediting programs in engineering and technology. As the world moves toward a global economy and engineering talent flows among countries throughout the world, the need for cooperation in accreditation will increase. As a worldwide organization, the IEEE is strategically positioned to play a vital and central role in engineering accreditation on an international scale. The author examines the IEEE's position within the US accreditation structure, the worldwide environment for accreditation, the international issues which are currently being addressed, and finally some potential future directions. >
Linking vitamin B1 with cancer cell metabolism

The resurgence of interest in cancer metabolism has linked alterations in the regulation and exploitation of metabolic pathways with an anabolic phenotype that increases biomass production for the replication of new daughter cells. To support the increase in the metabolic rate of cancer cells, a coordinated increase in the supply of nutrients, such as glucose and micronutrients functioning as enzyme cofactors is required. The majority of co-enzymes are water-soluble vitamins such as niacin, folic acid, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, biotin, riboflavin and thiamine (Vitamin B1). Continuous dietary intake of these micronutrients is essential for maintaining normal health. How cancer cells adaptively regulate cellular homeostasis of cofactors and how they can regulate expression and function of metabolic enzymes in cancer is underappreciated. Exploitation of cofactor-dependent metabolic pathways with the advent of anti-folates highlights the potential vulnerabilities and importance of vitamins in cancer biology. Vitamin supplementation products are easily accessible and patients often perceive them as safe and beneficial without full knowledge of their effects. Thus, understanding the significance of enzyme cofactors in cancer cell metabolism will provide for important dietary strategies and new molecular targets to reduce disease progression. Recent studies have demonstrated the significance of thiamine-dependent enzymes in cancer cell metabolism. Therefore, this review discusses the current knowledge in the alterations in thiamine availability, homeostasis, and exploitation of thiamine-dependent pathways by cancer cells.
Love Thy Neighbor? Trust in Foreigners and Support for Transnational Policies

This study assesses the extent to which individual levels of trust in foreigners relate to preferences about regional transnational policies. We use a nationally representative survey from Mexico (2003), an emerging democracy with relatively high levels of nationalism and several multinational trade agreements. We argue that clarifying the target of social trust is essential for understanding the attitudes of citizens of less powerful countries toward the international policy realm. Statistical analysis strongly suggests that in fact trust in foreigners, above generalized trust, is key to understanding such attitudes. Our results indicate that trust in foreigners among Mexican respondents is positively associated with support for open immigration policies, the North American Free Trade Agreement, and political union with the United States.
Is surveillance to detect failing polytetrafluoroethylene bypasses worthwhile?: Twelve-year experience with ninety-one grafts

Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study was to review the 91 failing polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts that were treated at our institution over the past 12 years to better understand their cause and improve the diagnosis and treatment of these grafts. Methods: Eighty-five patients with 91 failing grafts were retrospectively reviewed. The 144 graft-threatening lesions associated with these grafts were characterized by location (inflow artery, outflow artery, anastomosis, or graft body) and treatment method used (surgery, balloon angioplasty, or thrombolysis). Results: Progression of atherosclerotic disease was the predominant cause of failing PTFE grafts with 43 inflow lesions and 83 outflow lesions, accounting for 87% of all lesions identified. Ten lesions (7%) were noted within the prosthetic grafts, whereas only eight (6%) lesions were noted at the anastomoses. Forty stenotic lesions 2 cm in length or less were treated with percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty, whereas 100 lesions were treated by patch angioplasty or graft extensions. The remaining four lesions, present within the prosthetic grafts, were treated with thrombolytic therapy. The 5-year cumulative patency rate for all failing PTFE grafts was 71%, whereas that of failing femoropopliteal PTFE grafts was 64%. The 5-year limb salvage rate for all failing PTFE grafts was 73%. Conclusions: The progression of inflow and outflow disease is the predominant cause of failing PTFE grafts, which suggests that this process is a more important cause of PTFE graft thrombosis than is generally recognized. Frequent PTFE graft surveillance may permit detection of some threatening lesions before graft thrombosis occurs and may help maintain and prolong graft patency. The enhanced 5-year patency and limb salvage rates for treated failing PTFE grafts compared with the known poor outcome after reinterventions for PTFE graft failure support the conclusion that surveillance of PTFE grafts is worthwhile. (J VASC SURG 1993;18:981-90.)
Wind stress measurements from the QuikSCAT‐SeaWinds scatterometer tandem mission and the impact on an ocean model

[1] We examine diurnal signals captured by the QuikSCAT-SeaWinds scatterometer tandem mission (April–October 2003) and their impact on ocean model simulation. The diurnal variability captured by twice-daily scatterometer wind from the tandem mission is substantially larger than that estimated by the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) reanalysis product (even with a 6-hourly interval in the latter). Consequently, the impact of diurnal wind on model sea surface temperature (SST) is significantly larger with scatterometer than with NCEP winds because of stronger vertical mixing caused by the twice-daily scatterometer wind. This is consistent with previous studies that high-frequency wind at the ocean's inertial frequencies enhances vertical mixing through resonant inertial oscillations. The weak vertical mixing associated with daily scatterometer winds causes warm bias of SST (relative to that resulting from twice-daily scatterometer wind) and larger deviation from observations. The warm bias reaches several degrees Celsius in midlatitude oceans during summertime and can accumulate with time. Heat flux correction that attempts to account for the feedback of SST would propagate the error in wind and vertical mixing to heat flux without correcting the error source. Because of this error compensation, caution is needed in the interpretation of SST budget resulting from ocean models and data assimilation outputs based on wind products that do not adequately resolve diurnal variability. Our findings highlight the need to resolve diurnal wind in future scatterometer missions. Our study assumes that wind differences between the two scatterometers are primarily due to the sampling of diurnal cycle at different times. However, potential bias between the two needs further investigations.
Normal Growth and Development in Mice Over-Expressing the CCN Family Member WISP3

Loss-of-function mutations in the gene WISP3 cause the autosomal recessive human skeletal disease Progressive Pseudorheumatoid Dysplasia, whereas mice with knockout mutations of Wisp3 have no phenotype. The lack of a phenotype in the Wisp3 knockout mice has constrained studies of the protein's in vivo function. Over- expression experiments in zebrafish indicated that WISP3 may function as a BMP and Wnt signaling modulator. To determine whether these biologic activities are retained in mice, we created two strains of transgenic mice that over- express WISP3 in a broad array of tissues. Despite strong and persistent protein over-expression, the transgenic mice remained phenotypically indistinguishable from their non- transgenic littermates. Surprisingly, WISP3 contained in conditioned medium recovered from transgenic mouse primary kidney cell cultures was able to bind BMP and to inhibit BMP signaling in vitro. Factors that account for the difference between the in vitro and in vivo activities of WISP3 remain unknown. At present, the mouse remains a challenging model organism in which to explore the biologic function of WISP3. Summary of article. Transgenic mice that broadly over- express WISP3 were created to search for in vivo biologic activities, since mice that lack WISP3 were normal. Surprisingly, transgenic mice were also phenotypically indistinguishable from wild-type animals. The mouse is a challenging model organism in which to explore the biologic function of WISP3.
Same-Day Integrated Mental Health Care and PTSD Diagnosis and Treatment Among VHA Primary Care Patients With Positive PTSD Screens

Objective:The study examined whether same-day integrated mental health services are associated with increased diagnosis and treatment initiation among primary care patients with positive posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) screens.Methods:Data were from a national sample of Veterans Health Administration (VHA) primary care patients with a positive PTSD screen (N=21,427). Patients were assessed for PTSD diagnosis and treatment initiation on the screening day and ≤7 days, ≤12 weeks, ≤6 months, and ≤1 year after screening positive. The service setting on screening day was categorized as primary care only, same-day primary care–mental health integration (PC-MHI), or same-day specialty mental health care. Multivariable generalized estimating equations logistic regression was used to estimate associations between category of screening day services and diagnosis and treatment initiation, with adjustment for demographic characteristics, prior psychiatric diagnoses, prior VHA service utilization, and PTSD screen ...
Properties of Ligninase from Phanerochaete Chrysosporium and Their Possible Applications

The wood-degrading fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium Burds produces a family of enzymes which degrade lignin and lignin-like substrates. These ligninases exhibit a high degree of homology in being hemeprotein peroxidases, in Mr, in cross reactivity to polyclonal antibodies, in being glycosylated, and in catalytic properties. The predominant ligninase is able to generate cation radicals in its aromatic substrates. These radicals can undergo a variety of reactions thus explaining the nonspecific nature of the enzyme. A similar mechanism is suggested for the other isoenzymes. There are numerous potential applications for ligninases. These include: biopulping, waste treatment of byproduct lignins, detoxification of environmental pollutants, and modification of lignins to produce small molecular weight organics.
Is the BESTest at Its Best? A Suggested Brief Version Based on Interrater Reliability, Validity, Internal Consistency, and Theoretical Construct

Background The Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) and Mini-BESTest are clinical examinations of balance impairment, but the tests are lengthy and the Mini-BESTest is theoretically inconsistent with the BESTest. Objective The purpose of this study was to generate an alternative version of the BESTest that is valid, reliable, time efficient, and founded upon the same theoretical underpinnings as the original test. Design This was a cross-sectional study. Methods Three raters evaluated 20 people with and without a neurological diagnosis. Test items with the highest item-section correlations defined the new Brief-BESTest. The validity of the BESTest, the Mini-BESTest, and the new Brief-BESTest to identify people with or without a neurological diagnosis was compared. Interrater reliability of the test versions was evaluated by intraclass correlation coefficients. Validity was further investigated by determining the ability of each version of the examination to identify the fall status of a second cohort of 26 people with and without multiple sclerosis. Results Items of hip abductor strength, functional reach, one-leg stance, lateral push-and-release, standing on foam with eyes closed, and the Timed “Up & Go” Test defined the Brief-BESTest. Intraclass correlation coefficients for all examination versions were greater than .98. The accuracy of identifying people from the first cohort with or without a neurological diagnosis was 78% for the BESTest versus 72% for the Mini-BESTest or Brief-BESTest. The sensitivity to fallers from the second cohort was 100% for the Brief-BESTest, 71% for the Mini-BESTest, and 86% for the BESTest, and all versions exhibited specificity of 95% to 100% to identify nonfallers. Limitations Further testing is needed to improve the generalizability of findings. Conclusions Although preliminary, the Brief-BESTest demonstrated reliability comparable to that of the Mini-BESTest and potentially superior sensitivity while requiring half the items of the Mini-BESTest and representing all theoretically based sections of the original BESTest.
Application level selective drop for layered video over multicast networks

This paper presents an approach of router management that is easy to deploy and can improve the performance of existing layered video schemes. The router is configured to selectively drop a packet of the same application instance from its queue when the network is congested, which may be caused by either network dynamics or failed join experiment. Compared with uniform drop, this application level selective drop (ALSD) can increase the received video quality and provide a more stable subscription level for the narrow-bandwidth receivers competing on the same bottleneck link with high-bandwidth receivers. We evaluate the promising performance of the proposed ALSD algorithm with multiple layered video schemes through network simulations.