cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Patterns of Hibernation of Captive Citellus Lateralis and Eutamias Speciosus

Observations of 20 mantled squirrels ( Citellus lateralis ) and 15 chipmunks ( Eutamias speciosus ) in captivity, in a cold room in temperatures of 4 to 6°C, revealed general patterns of hibernation. Captive C. lateralis , placed in the cold room in early September, began hibernation in early October, and E. speciosus followed in late October. C. lateralis aroused every 5 or 6 days near the beginning and end of hibernation, but individual periods of dormancy lasted about 14 days in midwinter. E. speciosus aroused every 1 or 2 days near the beginning and end of hibernation, and in midwinter was dormant for periods averaging 5 or 6 days. Likewise, at the beginning of hibernation, both species remained active for from 1 to several days during periodic arousals, but in midwinter they were active for only 1 or several hours between periods of dormancy. In an ambient temperature of 4°C, both species had rectal temperatures between 4.8 and 5.2°C when torpid. Breathing was slow for each species: 1 C. lateralis in an ambient temperature of 4.0°C with a rectal temperature of 5.2°C took 83 distinct breaths in 1 hour in an irregular pattern; and 1 E. speciosus in an ambient temperature of 4.0°C had a rectal temperature of 4.8°C and took 138 in 1 hour, in a more or less regular manner. Less extensive observations on 4 Eutamias quadrimaculatus and 10 E. townsendi showed that they are bona fide hibernators.
Social Consequences of Malnutrition

Each year millions of people die from malnutrition-related problems. Those who survive are robbed of a healthy body, a sound intellect, and the hope for healthful living. Despite its global toll malnutrition is given limited attention by the world community; hence, it is generally viewed as a silent emergency by advocacy organizations. The causes and consequences of malnutrition are complex, and it will require the concerted efforts of all social institutions, including the social work profession, to combat malnutrition effectively. This article examines social determinants and consequences of malnutrition and suggests several social work actions that might be helpful toward minimizing malnutrition.
Thermal radiation by combustion gases

Abstract Generalized expressions for the calculation of the emissivity, absorptivity, and other relevant radiation properties of molecular gases are given. New rational correlations for the properties of H2O, CO2, CO, NO, SO2 and CH4 are shown to be readily applicable to combustion gas radiation problems. Hand calculations are shown to be easily made for any arbitrary mixture of the above gases, and a simple computer routine for high-speed computation is described. Tabular and graphical aids giving the engineer physical insight into the radiation heat-transfer characteristics of the gases considered are presented and explained.
Remote Sensing Applications: Beyond Land-Use and Land-Cover Change

Remotely sensed (RS) imagery is increasingly being adopted in investigations and applications outside of traditional land-use land-cover change (LUCC) studies. This is due to the increased awareness by governments, NGOs and Industry that earth observation data provide important and useful spatial and temporal information that can be used to make better decisions, design policies and address problems that range in scale from local to global. Additionally, citizens are increasingly adopting spatial analysis into their work as they utilize a suite of readily available geospatial tools. This paper examines some of the ways remotely sensed images and derived maps are being extended beyond LUCC to areas such as fire modeling, coastal and marine applications, infrastructure and urbanization, archeology, and to ecological, or infrastructure footprint analysis. Given the interdisciplinary approach of such work, this paper organizes selected studies into broad categories identified above. Findings demonstrate that RS data and technologies are being widely used in many fields, ranging from fishing to war fighting. As technology improves, costs go down, quality increases and data become increasingly available, greater numbers of organizations and local citizens will be using RS in important everyday applications.
The influence of seed maturation on desiccation tolerance in Phalaenopsis amabilis hybrids

Abstract The Orchidaceae contains a large number of threatened species that could benefit from seed banking. However, successful seed storage requires a greater understanding of the enigmatic seed biology of orchids. In particular, there is little documentation of the presence or timing of the maturation drying that has been shown to be critical for longevity of agricultural seeds in storage. The aims of this work were to document seed water content, germinability and desiccation tolerance as a function of maturation in developing capsules of hand-pollinated flowers of Phalaenopsis hybrids. Lengthening of capsules was complete by 50 DAP, but capsule diameter continued to increase up to a maximum at 70 DAP. Relative water content rapidly declined from 75% moisture content (fresh weight basis) at 150 DAP to 50% moisture content at 165 DAP where it remained until dehiscence. Seed germinability remained high (75–99.5%) throughout the harvesting period (90–216 DAP), but desiccation tolerance only developed 165 days after pollination. Therefore, if Phalaenopsis seeds are to be stored, we propose that their harvest should be delayed until moisture content drops below 50%.
A study of the peripheral innervation and muscle fibre types of Ictalurus nebulosus (Lesueur) and Ictalurus punctatus (Rafinesque)

The innervation pattern and fibre types of the axial musculature of two closely related catfish species with differing lifestyles, Ictalurus nebulosus (Lesueur) and I. punctatus (Rafinesque) were investigated. Both fish displayed the multiple innervation pattern in the red muscle. However, the white muscle of I. nebulosus demonstrated terminal innervation while I. puncrurus displayed multiply innervated white muscle fibres. Fibre typing utilizing histochemical techniques for glyco-gen, lipid, succinic dehydrogenase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase revealed the typical teleostean distribution of red, intermediate and white muscle fibres in both fish. Staining was greatest in the red muscle fibres and least in the white muscle fibres. The white muscle fibres of I. punctatus stained slightly more for lipid than the white fibres of I. nebulosus which may be correlated with a greater aerobic capacity related to lifestyle and possibly innervation.
Regulation of IL-1 gene expression: differential responsiveness of murine macrophage lines.

Abstract In order to begin to define themechanisms by which lipopolysaccharide (LPS) regulates IL-1 gene expression, we have examined IL-1 RNA levels, the transcription rate of the IL-1 genes, and IL-1 mRNa stabilities in P388DI/C, RAW264.7, and murine peritoneal exudate cells (PEC). These experiments showed that total cellular IL-1 RNa levels and IL-1 transcription rates were dramatically upregulated in all three cell types. In all cases, IL-1α and IL-1β cellular RNA levels and gene transription rates were regulated in parallel. However, the profiles of IL-1 gene activation during the 24 h after LPS treatment differed in these three cell types. Additionally, culture in the presence of actinomycin D (Act D) showed differential stabilities of the IL-1α and IL-1β RNAs in these cells. In peritoneal exudate cells, the half-lives ( t 1 2 ) of the IL-1α ad IL-1β RNAs were each >8 h. In RAW 264.7 cells, the stability of the IL-1β RNA was greater than the IL-1α RNA ( t 1 2 >8 h and ∼6 h, respectively). In P388D1/C cells, the t 1 2's of the IL-1α and β RNAs varied depending on the time of addition of actinomycin D. This and other data suggest that components of the IL-1 RNa catabolic pathway are labile and sensitive to treatment with actinomycin D. Together these data indicate that the two IL-1 genes show a diverse regulatory repertoire, even within related mononuclear phagocytic cells.
Emphysematous Prostatitis in a Diabetic Patient

A 64-year-old male with a history of end stage renal disease and diabetes mellitus presented with generalized abdominal pain, fever, chills, sweats and difficulty urinating. Temperature was 101.9F and physical examination revealed a diffusely tender but not distended abdomen without rebound, guarding or rigidity. On genitourinary examination perineal tenderness was noted and digital rectal examination was deferred based on computerized tomography findings. Multiphasic computerized tomography of the abdomen and pelvis demonstrated copious amounts of gas in the prostate (4.4 3.6 cm, see figure), which is consistent with emphysematous prostatitis. A suprapubic tube was placed with drainage of approximately 400 ml of concentrated purulent urine. The white blood cell count was 19,200 at presentation and increased to 29,000. The patient was started empirically on antibiotics and subsequent urine cultures were positive for Citrobacter species. Transurethral drainage/unroofing of the prostatic abscess was performed. Approximately 300 ml of purulent fluid were exposed during transurethral resection. A Foley catheter was placed and the suprapubic tube was left in position. The patient was kept in the intensive care unit for several days requiring pressor support and culture specific antibiotic therapy, which improved the hemodynamic status. After complete convalescence he was discharged home on postoperative day 14. Emphysematous prostatitis is a rare entity with few cases reported, and diagnosis is a challenge since patients present with nonspecific symptoms. Most patients are treated for urinary tract infection and emphysematous prostatitis is considered only after infections recur. Imaging of the prostate by computerized tomography and/or transrectal ultrasound should be performed in all patients with the suspected diagnosis. Gas forming bacterial infections of the urine are the culprits behind the illness and are typically seen in diabetic patients. The most commonly reported organisms are Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans. 1‐3 Mortality from emphysematous prostatitis is high and, thus, immediate drainage of the abscess is eminent.
Effects of the HeartMate II continuous-flow left ventricular assist device on right ventricular function

Background Continuous-flow devices have become the standard of care for mechanical circulatory support for end-stage heart failure patients because of improved survival and durability. The effects of these devices, such as the HeartMate II (HMII) left ventricular assist device (LVAD), on right ventricular (RV) function have not been evaluated in detail. This study evaluated the incidence of RV failure, alterations in RV function, severity of tricuspid regurgitation (TR), and cardiac hemodynamics after HMII implantation. Methods Echocardiograms ( n = 22) and right heart catheterizations ( n = 40) were performed before and after 4 to 6 months of HMII support in 40 bridge-to-transplant patients. Right heart failure was defined as the requirement for inotropes and/or nitric oxide requirement after LVAD implantation for > 14 days or the need for right-sided mechanical circulatory support. Results Overall, RV failure after HMII implantation occurred in 2 of 40 patients (5%). Significant improvements occurred in cardiac index, with reductions in right atrial pressure, RV stroke work index, tricuspid annular motion, mean pulmonary artery pressure, and pulmonary vascular resistance after HMII support. There was a trend towards reduction in TR after LVAD support ( p = 0.075). Conclusions The incidence of RV failure after support with continuous-flow devices such as the HMII is low. The favorable effects of the HMII on cardiac hemodynamics result in improved RV function, improved right- and left-sided hemodynamic profiles, and a reduction in TR severity. These findings may have important implications for LVAD patients needing longer-term support.
Evaluation of traditional lecture versus medical simulation training in airway management

Study objectives: Traditional forms of medical education in airway management have included topical lectures and practice using mannequins and handling of equipment in an attempt to familiarize the trainees with the skills necessary to manage an airway appropriately. However, retention of airway skills has been unsatisfactory unless frequently reinforced and practiced. Quantification of the percentage of retention from traditional methodology has not been previously described. The purpose of this study is to try to quantify airway skills retention using a traditional lecture model and then testing of the trainees using a high-fidelity patient simulator. Methods: One hundred sixty-eight medical students were enrolled in the study and given a standard airway management lecture including handling of endotracheal tubes, laryngoscopes, Ambu ® bags, and oral and nasal airways. Intubation practice was performed on standard and larger-than-life mannequins to facilitate the ability to intubate. Approximately 1 week later, the students were tested on a clinical encounter that involved airway compromise and the need for appropriate airway management. These sessions were digitally recorded with the consent of the participants, and analysis of airway management was obtained. The analysis was limited to practical handling of the airway equipment. Students were given credit for correct airway management if they knew and demonstrated appropriate use of an AMBU bag, correct use of oral and nasal airways, and correct use of laryngoscopes and endotracheal tubes. They were not given credit if they were unable to assemble the laryngoscope or did not know how to hold or place an AMBU bag or how or where to place the endotracheal tube. Students were given feedback after all sessions. Results: Sixty-four (38%) of 168 students failed to appropriately manage the airway equipment during the patient simulation. This failure occurred despite prompting by the nursing staff and educator during the simulation encounter. Appropriate use of equipment, indications for use of specific equipment, and correct applications were demonstrated to the student during debriefing. Conclusion: High-fidelity patient simulation provides a detailed and practical tool to assess and monitor effectiveness of training methods. The relatively high failure rate so soon after a detailed lecture and practical session demonstrates the need for improvement in traditional educational methodology. The high levels of stress associated with high-fidelity patient simulation reproduce real-life patient encounters and reflect the difficulty in performance under stress. Future study is needed to evaluate subsequent performance after a longer period of time.
A new type of suppression of temperature sensitive gene activity in Escherichia coli.

The temperature sensitive strA mutant, C1714 of Escherichia coli which affects a ribosomal protein is capable of growing at restrictive temperature (38°), when the cell has an additional mutation at the hisD locus (L-histidinol dehydrogenase gene). Similar growth of mutant strain C1714 is demonstrated at 40° in the presence of L-histidinol.
Atomic levers control pyranose ring conformations

Atomic force microscope manipulations of single polysaccharide molecules have recently expanded con- formational chemistry to include force-driven transitions between the chair and boat conformers of the pyranose ring structure. We now expand these observations to include chair inversion, a common phenomenon in the conformational chemistry of six-membered ring molecules. We demonstrate that by stretching single pectin molecules (1 3 4-linked a-D-galactouronic acid polymer), we could change the pyr- anose ring conformation from a chair to a boat and then to an inverted chair in a clearly resolved two-step conversion: 4 C1i boati 1 C4. The two-step extension of the distance between the glycosidic oxygen atoms O1 and O4 determined by atomic force microscope manipulations is corroborated by ab initio calcu- lations of the increase in length of the residue vector O1O4 on chair inversion. We postulate that this conformational change results from the torque generated by the glycosidic bonds when a force is applied to the pectin molecule. Hence, the glycosidic bonds act as mechanical levers, driving the confor- mational transitions of the pyranose ring. When the glycosidic bonds are equatorial (e), the torque is zero, causing no conformational change. However, when the glycosidic bond is axial (a), torque is generated, causing a rotation around COC bonds and a conformational change. This hypothesis readily predicts the number of transitions observed in pyranose monomers with 1a-4a linkages (two), 1a-4e (one), and 1e-4e (none). Our results demonstrate single-molecule mechano- chemistry with the capability of resolving complex conforma- tional transitions.
Image pre-compensation to facilitate computer access for users with refractive errors

The use of computer technology for everyday tasks has become increasingly important in today's world. Frequently, computer technology makes use of Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs), presented through monitors or LCD displays. This type of visual interface is not well suited for users with visual limitations due to refractive errors, particularly when they are severe and not correctable by common means. In order to facilitate computer access for users with refractive deficiencies, an algorithm was developed, using a priori knowledge of the visual aberration, to generate an inverse transformation of the images that are then displayed on-screen, countering the effect of the aberration. The result is that when the user observes the screen displaying the transformed images, the image perceived in the retina will be similar to the original image. The algorithm was tested by artificially introducing a spherical aberration in the field of view of 14 subjects, totaling 28 individual eyes. Results show that when viewing the screen, this method of compensation improves the visual performance of the subjects tested in comparison to viewing uncompensated images.
Measurement of endometrial stripe thickness by obstetrics and gynecology residents.

Objective How well do obstetrics and gynecology residents measure the endometrial stripe by transvaginal sonography? Study design Three obstetrics and gynecology residents at the University of Texas Medical Branch from each year level were tested for their ability to perform endometrial stripe measurements. Measurements of endometrial stripe thickness within 1 mm of the reference value that was obtained by an expert sonographer were deemed to be correct. Results Residents correctly measured the endometrial stripe in 14 of 24 cases (58%). Postgraduate year–4 residents correctly measured endometrial stripe thickness in 5 of 6 cases (83%); lower level residents were correct in 9 of 18 cases (50%). The most common error that was noted was an incorrect image plane in 25 of 47 attempts (53%). Fewer errors were committed by upper level as compared with lower level residents ( P Conclusion By the end of residency, residents can accurately measure the endometrial stripe using transvaginal sonography. Emphasis should be placed on the improvement of the measurement skills.
Antiserum to rat visceral yolk sac endoderm induced abnormal embryonic development.

Summary: The induction of abnormal embryonic development by heterologous tissue antisera has been well established. The underlying mechanism whereby such teratogenesis occurs is not known. There were implications that visceral yolk sac endoderm might be involved. Endoderm was isolated from rat visceral yolk sac of 14th day of gestation using a nonenzymic procedure. The purity of the endoderm preparation was examined by electron microscopy. The preparation contained sheets of single layer of endodermal cells with no apparent contamination by the underlying mesenchyme or basal lamina. The specificity of the antiserum was examined by in vitro immunofluorescent localization studies. The antibodies against the endoderm localized only in the endodermal cells and some of the renal tubular cells. Intraperitoneal injection of the endoderm antiserum into 9-day pregnant rats resulted in congenital malformation, embryonic death, and fetal growth retardation. The effects of the antiserum were dose-dependent. The most frequently observed defects were anophthalmia and microphthalmia. Retarding effect of the antiserum on the growth of the embryo at the egg cylinder stage was also observed. In vivo immunofluorescent localization studies indicated that the endoderm antibodies localized only in the endodermal cells of the visceral yolk sac placenta; no localization was observed in the visceral yolk sac mesenchyme, basal lamina, Reichert's membrane, maternal kidney tissue or the embryo proper.
Cholesterol esterase — A polymeric enzyme

Abstract A direct interaction of cholic acid and pancreatic cholesterol esterase has been shown using labeled bile salt of high specific activity and Sephadex G-50 chromatography. This interaction results in the formation of a protein of M.W. 400,000 which appears to be a hexamer of the protein in pancreatic juice (M.W. 65,000 – 69,000). Rechromatography of the polymer on Sephadex G-200 results in dissociation to the monomeric form. Evidence is provided, suggesting that the polymeric form of cholesterol esterase represents the active enzyme responsible for sterol ester synthesis and hydrolysis.
THE BLOOD CHOLESTEROL IN THYROIDECTOMIZED RATS AS RELATED TO THE EFFECTIVENESS OF GONADOTROPIC HORMONES1

IT HAS BEEN shown that experimental hyperthyroidism in the rat exerts an inhibiting effect on the action of the gonad stimulating hormones (i, i). Moreover, thyroidectomy is followed by an increase in the effectiveness of the follicle stimulating hormone but not in that of pregnancy urine or pregnant-mare serum (i, 3, 4). In view of the knowledge that these gonadotropic substances are different in their action on the ovary, other factors than decreased metabolism were sought to explain the difference.in the effect of thyroidectomy. Our attention was directed to the almost universal observation that hypothyroidism in many animals and in man is accompanied by an increase in the cholesterol of the blood (5, 6). Since cholesterol is closely relatedchemically to the sex hormones and hence ovarian function, it seemed practical to investigate blood cholesterol changes in the rat in relation to thy roidectomy and gonadotropic hormone response.
Pb and rare earth element diffusion in xenotime

Abstract Diffusion of Pb and the rare earth elements Sm, Dy and Yb have been characterized in synthetic xenotime under dry conditions. The synthetic xenotime was grown via a Na2CO3–MoO3 flux method. The sources of diffusant for the rare earth diffusion experiments were REE phosphate powders, with experiments run using sources containing a single REE. For Pb, the source consisted a mixture of YPO4 and PbTiO3. Experiments were performed by placing source and xenotime in Pt capsules, and annealing capsules in 1 atm furnaces for times ranging from 30 min to several weeks, at temperatures from 1000 to 1500 °C. The REE and Pb distributions in the xenotime were profiled by Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry (RBS). The following Arrhenius relations are obtained for diffusion in xenotime, normal to (101): D Sm = 1.5 × 10 − 4 exp ⁡ ( − 441 ± 12 kJmol − 1 / R ⁢ T ) m 2 s − 1 . D Dy = 9.0 × 10 − 8 exp ⁡ ( − 349 ± 16 kJmol − 1 / R ⁢ T ) m 2 s − 1 . D Yb = 3.9 × 10 − 7 exp ⁡ ( − 362 ± 13 kJmol − 1 / R ⁢ T ) m 2 s − 1 . Diffusivities among the REE do not differ greatly in xenotime over the investigated temperature range, in contrast to findings for the REE in zircon [Cherniak, D.J., Hanchar, J.M., Watson, E.B., 1997. Rare earth diffusion in zircon. Chem. Geol. 134, 289–301.], where the LREE diffuse more slowly, and with higher activation energies for diffusion, than the heavier rare earths. In zircon, these differences among diffusion of the rare earths are attributed to the relatively large size of the REE with respect to Zr, for which they likely substitute in the zircon lattice. With the systematic increase in ionic radius from the heavy to lighter REE, this size mismatch becomes more pronounced and diffusivities of the LREE are as consequence slower. Although xenotime is isostructural with zircon, the REE are more closely matched in size to Y, so in xenotime this effect appears much smaller and the REE diffuse at similar rates. In addition, the process of diffusion in xenotime likely involves simple REE+ 3 → Y+ 3 exchange, without charge compensation as needed for REE+ 3 → Zr+ 4 exchange in zircon. This latter factor may also contribute to the large activation energies for diffusion of the REE in zircon (i.e., 691–841 kJ mol− 1, [Cherniak, D.J., Hanchar, J.M., Watson, E.B., 1997. Rare earth diffusion in zircon. Chem. Geol. 134, 289–301.]), in comparison with those for xenotime. For Pb, the following Arrhenius relation is obtained (also normal to (101)): D Pb = 3.0 × 10 − 9 exp ⁡ ( − 382 ± 64 kJmol − 1 / R ⁢ T ) m 2 s 1 . These measurements suggest that Pb diffusion in xenotime is quite slow, even slower than Pb diffusion in monazite and zircon, and considerably slower than diffusion of the REE in xenotime. Xenotime may therefore be even more retentive of Pb isotope signatures than either monazite or zircon in cases where Pb isotopes are altered solely by volume diffusion. However, because the activation energy for Pb diffusion in xenotime is lower than those for monazite and zircon, Pb diffusion may be somewhat faster at many temperatures of geologic interest in xenotime than in monazite or zircon.
Evaluation of deep levels in In0.53Ga0.47As and GaAs0.5Sb0.5 using low-frequency noise and RTS noise characterization

Quantum-well photodetectors based on lattice-matched InGaAs/GaAsSb heterostructures on InP are promising candidates for mid-infrared detection. However, the dark current in these devices can be elevated by the presence of deep levels. In this work, both bulk and interfacial deep levels in MBE-grown homojunctions and heterojunctions are studied experimentally using low-frequency noise spectroscopy and random telegraph signal (RTS) characterization. Several bulk and interface-related levels have been identified and characterized in terms of energy level, cross-section and trap type. It is expected that these ongoing defect studies will enable the growth of the higher-quality material and heterostructures needed for future-generation mid-IR detectors and devices. (© 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Pitch Cone Design and Avoidance of Contact Envelope and Tooth Undercutting for Conical Worm Gear Drives

This paper presents a systematic approach for the design, generation and analysis of conical worm gear drives. The approach is based on the mathematical formulations on the mesh, tooth generation process and conditions for the appearance of contact envelope and tooth undercutting of this type of worm drives. The formulation is implemented by a computer model developed in MatLab environment. By model simulation on worm gear mesh or generation, the conditions for the formation of contact envelope and tooth undercutting are accurately determined for the proper design of worm gear blank and tooth geometry. The computer model can also be used to calculate worm gear tooth geometry and create solid models for the worm gear drives. Numerical examples on conical worm gear drive design, analysis on the problems of contact envelope, limit line and limit point are included in the paper.
Structure−Activity Relationships in Dendrimers Based on Triazines: Gelation Depends on Choice of Linking and Surface Groups

A small library of dendrimers based on triazines was prepared by varying the surface and interior linking groups to study the relationship between structure and the ability of some of these dendrimers to gel in acidified organic solvents including chloroform, methylene chloride, and benzene. Convergent, divergent, and semiconvergent routes yielded eight molecules comprising p-aminobenzylamine or piperazine linking groups and piperidine or butylamine surface groups. Dendrimers that incorporate interior and surface groups capable of hydrogen bonding (p-aminobenzylamine or butylamine) gel at lower concentrations than those groups that offer no hydrogen-bonding protons (piperazine or piperidine). In some cases, these latter molecules do not form gels to the limit of solubility. Studies with competitive solvents corroborate hydrogen bonding, but neither IR nor NMR spectroscopy reveals signals that substantiate this hypothesis. TEM studies show fibers. Studies of these systems at concentrations below that requi...
Tourists values, activities and motivation for travel to third world destinations: Case study of Nigeria

The study identifies resources and destinations in Nigeria considered important for tourism and compares foreign with domestic Nigerian tourists in product choice, activity participation and travel motivations. 886 tourists were randomly sampled in 7 destinations in Nigeria. Survey results showed nature/ecotourism and beach/water resorts as most valued by domestic tourists, while foreign tourists attached higher significance to cultural/heritage and historic tourism Chi‐square tests also established significant differences between domestic and foreign tourists in structure of travel motivations and activities. Implications for destination planning and management are also highlighted.
Overexpression of Catalase in the Mitochondrial or Cytosolic Compartment Increases Sensitivity of HepG2 Cells to Tumor Necrosis Factor-α-induced Apoptosis

The sensitivity of HepG2 cells overexpressing catalase in either the cytosolic or mitochondrial compartment to tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and cycloheximide was studied. Cells overexpressing catalase in the cytosol (C33 cells) and especially in mitochondria (mC5 cells) were more sensitive to TNF-α-induced apoptosis than were control cells (Hp cells). The activities of caspase-3 and -8 were increased by TNF-α, with the highest activities found in mC5 cells. Sodium azide, an inhibitor of catalase, reduced the increased sensitivity of mC5 and C33 cells to TNF-α to the level of toxicity found with control Hp cells. Azide also decreased the elevated caspase-3 activity of mC5 cells. A pan-caspase inhibitor prevented the TNF-α-induced apoptosis and toxicity produced by catalase overexpression. Addition of H2O2prevented TNF-α-induced apoptosis and caspase activation, an effect prevented by simultaneous addition of catalase. TNF-α plus cycloheximide increased ATP levels, with higher levels in C33 and mC5 cells compared with Hp cells. TNF-α did not produce apoptosis in mC5 cells maintained in a low energy state. TNF-α signaling was not altered by the overexpression of catalase, as activation of nuclear factor κB and AP-1 by TNF-α was similar in the three cell lines. These results suggest that catalase, overexpressed in the cytosolic or especially the mitochondrial compartment, potentiates TNF-α-induced apoptosis and activation of caspases by removal of H2O2.
Creating a Culture of Innovation in the Community College

As we approach the second decade of the new millennium, there is a renaissance of innovation in education, a resurgence of interest and experimentation that begs for analysis and review. To that end, the League for Innovation in the Community College proposed to conduct a national study on the nature of innovation in the community college using recipients of its Innovation of the Year award from 1999 through 2008 as a data set. With funding from MetLife Foundation, researchers examined these innovations and explored the perspectives of the winners of these awards. In September 2009, a survey created by the researchers with assistance from a focus group—field-tested on a sample of winners not included in the project and vetted by a national advisory committee—was distributed electronically to the 400 award winners; 117 respondents returned surveys for a return rate of 29%. In addition to the survey, more than 40 of the award winners were interviewed using interview questions created by the researchers and ...
The Catalytic Site of Cytochrome P4504A11 (CYP4A11) and Its L131F Mutant

CYP4A11, the principal known human fatty acid ω-hydroxylase, has been expressed as a polyhistidine-tagged protein and purified to homogeneity. Based on an alignment with P450BM-3, the CYP4A11 L131F mutant has been constructed and similarly expressed. The two proteins are spectroscopically indistinguishable, but wild-type CYP4A11 primarily catalyzes ω-hydroxylation, and the L131F mutant only ω-1 hydroxylation, of lauric acid. The L131F mutant is highly uncoupled in that it slowly (ω-1)-hydroxylates lauric acid yet consumes NADPH at approximately the same rate as the wild-type enzyme. Wild-type CYP4A11 is inactivated by 1-aminobenzotriazole under turnover conditions but the L131F mutant is not. This observation, in conjunction with the binding affinities of substituted imidazoles for the two proteins, indicates that the L131F mutation decreases access of exogenous substrates to the heme site. Leu-131 thus plays a key role in controlling the regioselectivity of substrate hydroxylation and the extent of coupled versus uncoupled enzyme turnover. A further important finding is that the substituted imidazoles bind more weakly to CYP4A11 and its L131F mutant when these proteins are reduced by NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase than by dithionite. This finding suggests that the ferric enzyme undergoes a conformational change that depends on both reduction of the iron and the presence of cytochrome P450 reductase and NADPH.
The backward masking red light effect and schizotypy: The influence of sex

Previous research has shown a unique effect of red light on visual processing related to both schizophrenia and positive schizotypy. The current study examined whether this effect is influenced by sex in a more broadly-defined schizotypy sample. A location backward masking (BM) task with red, green, and gray backgrounds was administered to 34 undergraduate students (59% female) with a high score on the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire (SPQ) and 38 students (50% female) with a low score. Results revealed that the group by color interaction was significant for the male participants, while it did not approach significance in the females. The male schizotypy participants showed a significant decrease in BM accuracy to the red (vs. green) background, while the male control participants showed a non-significant mean increase in accuracy. A decrease in accuracy to the red background in the male schizotypy participants was related to a higher score on the Social Anxiety subscale of the SPQ. Findings suggest that the previously reported schizophrenia red light effect is limited to males when examining a SPQ-defined sample, and appears to be primarily related to negative schizotypy symptoms. The red light effect continues to show promise as a new endophenotype for schizophrenia-spectrum disorders.
Mineralization of three-dimensional osteoblast cultures is enhanced by the interaction of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and BMP2 via two specific vitamin D receptors

1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1α,25(OH)2D3] and bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP2) are both used to stimulate osteoblastic differentiation. 1α,25(OH)2D3 regulates osteoblasts through classical steroid hormone receptor mechanisms and through rapid responses that are mediated by two receptors, the traditional vitamin D receptor (VDR) and protein disulphide isomerase family A member 3 (Pdia3). The interaction between 1α,25(OH)2D3 and BMP2, especially in three-dimensional (3D) culture, and the roles of the two vitamin D receptors in this interaction are not well understood. We treated wild-type (WT), Pdia3-silenced (Sh-Pdia3) and VDR-silenced (Sh-VDR) pre-osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells with either 1α,25(OH)2D3, or BMP2, or with 1α,25(OH)2D3 and BMP2 together, and measured osteoblast marker expression in 2D culture and mineralization in a 3D poly(e-caprolactone)–collagen scaffold model. Quantitative PCR showed that silencing Pdia3 or VDR had a differential effect on baseline expression of osteoblast markers. 1α,25(OH)2D3 + BMP2 caused a synergistic increase in osteoblast marker expression in WT cells, while silencing either Pdia3 or VDR attenuated this effect. 1α,25(OH)2D3 + BMP2 also caused a synergistic increase in Dlx5 in both silenced cell lines. Micro-computed tomography (μCT) showed that the mineralized volume of untreated Sh-Pdia3 and Sh-VDR 3D cultures was greater than that of WT. 1α,25(OH)2D3 reduced mineral in WT and Sh-VDR cultures; BMP2 increased mineralization; and 1α,25(OH)2D3 + BMP2 caused a synergistic increase, but only in WT cultures. SEM showed that mineralized matrix morphology in 3D cultures differed for silenced cells compared to WT cells. These data indicate a synergistic crosstalk between 1α,25(OH)2D3 and BMP2 toward osteogenesis and mineral deposition, involving both VDR and Pdia3. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modality independent elastography (MIE): a new approach to elasticity imaging

The correlation between tissue stiffness and health is an accepted form of organ disease assessment. As a result, there has been a significant amount of interest in developing methods to image elasticity parameters (i.e., elastography). The modality independent elastography (MIE) method combines a nonlinear optimization framework, computer models of soft-tissue deformation, and standard measures of image similarity to reconstruct elastic property distributions within soft tissue. In this paper, simulation results demonstrate successful elasticity image reconstructions in breast cross-sectional images acquired from magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Results from phantom experiments illustrate its modality independence by reconstructing elasticity images of the same phantom in both MR and computed tomographic imaging units. Additional results regarding the performance of a new multigrid strategy to MIE and the implementation of a parallel architecture are also presented.
Role of Intermolecular Interactions of Vesicular Stomatitis Virus Nucleoprotein in RNA Encapsidation

The crystal structure of the vesicular stomatitis virus nucleoprotein (N) in complex with RNA reveals extensive and specific intermolecular interactions among the N molecules in the 10-member oligomer. What roles these interactions play in encapsidating RNA was studied by mutagenesis of the N protein. Three N mutants intended for disruption of the intermolecular interactions were designed and coexpressed with the phosphoprotein (P) in an Escherichia coli system previously described (T. J. Green et al., J. Virol. 74:9515-9524, 2000). Mutants N (Delta1-22), N (Delta347-352), and N (320-324, (Ala)(5)) lost RNA encapsidation and oligomerization but still bound with P. Another mutant, N (Ser290-->Trp), was able to form a stable ring-like N oligomer and bind with the P protein but was no longer able to encapsidate RNA. The crystal structure of N (Ser290-->Trp) at 2.8 A resolution showed that this mutant can maintain all the same intermolecular interactions as the wild-type N except for a slight unwinding of the N-terminal lobe. These results suggest that the intermolecular contacts among the N molecules are required for encapsidation of the viral RNA.
Slip rates on the Fish Springs fault, Owens Valley, California, deduced from cosmogenic 10Be and 26Al and soil development on fan surfaces

Long-term deformation along the Fish Springs fault in Owens Valley, California, is recorded by offset landforms, including a previously dated cinder cone ( 39 Ar/ 40 Ar, 314
Bilateral sectioning of the anterior ethmoidal nerves does not eliminate the diving response in voluntarily diving rats

The diving response is characterized by bradycardia, apnea, and increased peripheral resistance. This reflex response is initiated by immersing the nose in water. Because the anterior ethmoidal nerve (AEN) innervates the nose, our hypothesis was that intact AENs are essential for initiating the diving response in voluntarily diving rats. Heart rate (HR) and arterial blood pressure (BPa) were monitored using implanted biotransmitters. Sprague-Dawley rats were trained to voluntarily swim 5 m underwater. During diving, HR decreased from 480 15 to 99 5 bpm and BPa increased from 136 2t o 187 3 mmHg. Experimental rats (N = 9) then received bilateral AEN sectioning, while Sham rats (N = 8) did not. During diving in Experimental rats 7 days after AEN surgery, HR decreased from 478 13 to 76 4 bpm and BPa increased from 134 3 to 186 4 mmHg. Responses were similar in Sham rats. Then, during nasal stimulation with ammonia vapors in urethaneanesthetized Experimental rats, HR decreased from 368 7t o 83 4 bpm, and BPa increased from 126 7 to 175 4 mmHg. Responses were similar in Sham rats. Thus, 1 week after being sectioned the AENs are not essential for initiating a full cardiorespiratory response during both voluntary diving and nasal stimulation. We conclude that other nerve(s) innervating the nose are able to provide an afferent signal sufficient to initiate the diving response, although neuronal plasticity within the medullary dorsal horn may be necessary for this to occur.
The Instructional Effects of Knowledge-Based Community of Practice Learning Environment on Student Achievement and Knowledge Convergence

The increased accessibility of technology and Internet connections has enabled organizations to provide their workforces with the opportunity to engage in distributed education. “Harnessing this innovation calls for organizational and technological infrastructures that support the interplay of knowledge and knowing” (Cook & Brown, 1999, p. 381). This article explores the evidence of knowledge convergence in online knowledge-based communities of practice (CoPs). Learning outcomes assessed declarative knowledge, convergence, and knowledge application. A comparison group (self-paced design) was used to draw conclusions about the differential effects of knowledge-building strategies on these learning outcomes. The results show there was a difference in pretest and posttest scores and positive evidence of knowledge convergence. The findings pointed to higher posttest scores and higher level of convergence in the online CoP strategy.
Using Technology in Social Work Practice: The mDad (Mobile Device Assisted Dad) Case Study

Mobile technology presents an exciting opportunity for social workers to reach populations that are typically underserved by interventions and services. We present one application of technology that is particularly relevant to social work practice. The mDad (Mobile Device Assisted Dad) app was developed to augment existing social work practices by providing a father-friendly tool to help new fathers learn about and engage with their infants and toddlers. We discuss the process of developing the app content and conducting usability testing of the mDad app. We conclude with a discussion of the lessons learned from the mDad project, and the challenges of implementation and dissemination of technology-based interventions in community contexts.
A GM-CSF/CD40L Producing Cell Augments Anti-tumor T Cell Responses

Background Tumors evade T cell-mediated rejection despite the presence of tumor associated antigens (TAAs) and T cells specific for these TAAs in cancer patients. Therapeutic tumor vaccines are being developed to prevent this evasion. Previous reports revealed that anti-tumor T cell responses could be activated in mice when granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) or CD40L are produced at tumor vaccine sites. We sought to test the hypothesis that production of GM-CSF and CD40L by a bystander cell line could induce an anti-tumor T cell response in an in vitro human model. Materials and methods The K562 cell line was stably transfected with the human GM-CSF and CD40L genes. The effect of this cell line on T cell responses was tested in a human autologous mixed tumor cell/lymph node cell model using tissue from a series of cancer patients. Results There was no significant anti-tumor T cell response when human lymphocytes derived from tumor-draining lymph nodes were stimulated with autologous tumor cells in vitro . However, significant anti-tumor T cell responses were observed when bystander cells transfected with CD40L and GM-CSF were added to the cultures. Conclusions A fully autologous human model consisting of tumor cells as stimulator cells and tumor-draining lymph nodes as responder cells can be used to test immunotherapeutic strategies. T cells in these lymph nodes are unresponsive to autologous tumor cells, but this lack of responsiveness can be reversed in the presence of GM-CSF and CD40L. These data provide a rationale for testing tumor cell vaccines incorporating GM-CSF- and CD40L-expressing bystanders in clinical trials.
Diet and the environment: does what you eat matter?

Food demand influences agricultural production. Modern agricultural practices have resulted in polluted soil, air, and water; eroded soil; dependence on imported oil; and loss of biodiversity. The goal of this research was to compare the environmental effect of a vegetarian and nonvegetarian diet in California in terms of agricultural production inputs, including pesticides and fertilizers, water, and energyused to produce commodities. Theworking assumption was that a greater number and amount of inputs were associated with a greater environmental effect. The literature supported this notion. To accomplish this goal,dietary preferences were quantifiedwith theAdventist Health Study, and California state agricultural data were collected andappliedtostatecommodityproduction statistics. Thesedatawere used to calculate different dietary consumption patterns and indexes to compare the environmental effect associated with dietary preference. Results show that, for the combined differential production of 11 food items for which consumption differs among vegetarians and nonvegetarians, the nonvegetarian diet required 2.9 times more water, 2.5 times more primary energy, 13 times more fertilizer, and 1.4 times more pesticides than did the vegetarian diet. The greatest contribution to the differences came from the consumption of beef in the diet. We found that a nonvegetarian diet exacts a higher cost on the environmentrelativetoavegetariandiet.Fromanenvironmentalperspective, what a person chooses to eat makes a difference. Am J Clin Nutr 2009;89(suppl):1699S‐703S.
Importance of a specific amino acid pairing for murine MLL leukemias driven by MLLT1/3 or AFF1/4

Acute leukemias caused by translocations of the MLL gene at chromosome 11 band q23 (11q23) are characterized by a unique gene expression profile. More recently, data from several laboratories indicate that the most commonly encountered MLL fusion proteins, MLLT1, MLLT3, and AFF1 are found within a molecular complex that facilitates the elongation phase of mRNA transcription. Mutational analyses suggest that interaction between the MLLT1/3 proteins and AFF family proteins are required for experimental transformation of hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs). Here, we define a specific pairing of two amino acids that creates a salt bridge between MLLT1/3 and AFF proteins that is critically important for MLL-mediated transformation of HPCs. Our findings, coupled with the newly defined structure of MLLT3 in complex with AFF1, should facilitate the development of small molecules that block this amino acid interaction and interfere with the activity of the most common MLL oncoproteins.