cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Associations of Percent Body Fat and Motor Skill Development in Preschool-Aged Children: National Youth Fitness Survey.

Background: Body composition and motor skill development are important for the engagement in physical activity and healthy development of children. This study examined the associations between body...
Requirement for acetyl‐CoA carboxylase in Trypanosoma brucei is dependent upon the growth environment

Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of human African trypanosomiasis, possesses two fatty acid synthesis pathways: a major de novo synthesis pathway in the ER and a mitochondrial pathway. The 2-carbon donor for both pathways is malonyl-CoA, which is synthesized from acetyl-CoA by Acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC). Here, we show that T. brucei ACC shares the same enzyme architecture and moderate ∼ 30% identity with yeast and human ACCs. ACC is cytoplasmic and appears to be distributed throughout the cell in numerous puncta distinct from glycosomes and other organelles. ACC is active in both bloodstream and procyclic forms. Reduction of ACC activity by RNA interference (RNAi) resulted in a stage-specific phenotype. In procyclic forms, ACC RNAi resulted in 50-75% reduction in fatty acid elongation and a 64% reduction in growth in low-lipid media. In bloodstream forms, ACC RNAi resulted in a minor 15% decrease in fatty acid elongation and no growth defect in culture, even in low-lipid media. However, ACC RNAi did attenuate virulence in a mouse model of infection. Thus the requirement for ACC in T. brucei is dependent upon the growth environment in two different life cycle stages.
Proteomics for the investigation of acute kidney injury.

Acute kidney injury (AKI), previously referred to as acute renal failure (ARF), represents an important problem in clinical medicine. Despite significant improvements in therapeutics, the mortality
Finite difference time domain modeling of finite‐sized electromagnetic source over periodic structure via a plane wave spectral expansion approach

[1] A novel three-dimensional time domain method is developed to study interactions between finite-sized electromagnetic sources and infinite periodic structures. The method is based on a periodic finite difference time domain method combined with the spectral expansion of electromagnetic sources. Using this method, only a single periodic cell needs to be modeled in finite difference time domain simulations. The convergence, guidelines on using the algorithm, and the acceleration scheme for the algorithm are discussed. Several periodic structures are simulated by this proposed method. It is shown that this method can significantly reduce the required computer memory and computational time.
The Impact of Virtual Machines on Embedded Systems

Embedded systems are becoming increasingly complex and, due to their tight energy requirements, all the available resources must be used in the best possible way. However, Android, the most used software platform for embedded systems, features a virtual machine to run applications. Even though it ensures flexibility so the application can execute on different underlying architectures without the need for recompilation, it burdens the system because of the introduction of an extra software layer. Considering this scenario, through the development of an extension of the Android QEMU emulator and a specific benchmark set, this work evaluates the significance of the virtual machine by comparing applications written in Java and in native language. We show that, given a fixed energy budget, a different amount of applications can be executed depending the way they were implemented. We also demonstrate that this difference varies according to the processor, by executing the applications on all officially supported Android architectures (Intel x86, ARM, and MIPS). Therefore, even though the Virtual Machine provides total transparency to the software developer, he/she must be aware of it and the underlying target micro architecture at early designs stages so as to build a low-energy application.
Pathologies of Power: Health, Human Rights and the New War on the Poor; Mountains beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer, a Man Who Would Cure the World

Pathologies of Power: Health, Human Rights and the New War on the Poor. Paul Farmer. Berkeley: University of California Press, 2003.419 pp. Mountains beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer,. Man Who Would Cure the World. Tracy Kidder. New York: Random House, 2003. 336 pp.
Stressful Life Events, Worry, and Rumination Predict Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms in Young Adolescents

Problem Depression and anxiety are highly prevalent and frequently comorbid mental health disorders that often manifest during childhood and adolescence. The purpose of this study was to prospectively examine potential common underlying mechanisms predicting the development of depressive and anxiety symptoms to identify mutual underlying modifiable risk factors to target with mental health promotion and prevention interventions. Methods A community-based sample of 11- to 15-year-old adolescents participated in a prospective, longitudinal pilot study with three waves of data collection over a 6-month period. Findings At baseline, stressful life events, worry, and rumination accounted for 35% of the variance in anxiety scores (adjusted R2 = 0.28) and 58% of the variance in depressive symptoms (adjusted R2 = 0.53), while at Time 3 (T3; 6 months post baseline) these variables accounted for 63% of the variance in anxiety scores (adjusted R2 = 0.59) and 45% of the variance in depressive symptoms (adjusted R2 = 0.39). After controlling for baseline values, increases in stress, worry, and rumination were predictive of both depressive and anxiety symptoms at T3. Conclusions Study findings point to the importance of prevention and early intervention programs including content addressing stress management, rumination, and worry.
Anti-aging gene klotho regulates cellular antioxidant capacity via binding to S-fromylglutathione hydrolase through the N285 glycosylation site (1095.3)

Background. Klotho is a recently-identified aging-suppressor gene. Mutation of klotho causes extensive premature aging phenotypes and shortens lifespan while overexpression of this gene extends lifespan by 20%. The secreted Klotho (Skl) circulates in the blood. However, the receptor of Skl is unknown. The purpose of this study is to identify the binding sites of Skl. Methods & Results. We apply proteomics method to identify the associated proteins of Skl. Mass spectrometry anal[[Unsupported Character - Codename s]]ysis and coimmunoprecipitation identified a direct interaction between Skl and S-formylglutathione hydrolase (FGH), which was confirmed by western blotting and immune fluorescent staining. Overexpression of Skl upregulated FGH protein levels in cells. In KL-/- mice, FGH was decreased in kidneys and red blood cells. Skl decreased cellular O2- levels (DHE staining) and increased FGH activity (ratio of Glutathione/Glutathione disulfide). Knocked down FGH by siRNA abolished the Skl-induced i...
Comparison of verbal and visual cues in teaching beginning swimming.

Abstract College women (N = 92) enrolled in beginning swimming classes were randomly selected for one of four treatment groups (Verbal cues, Verbal cues and videotape feedback, Videotape feedback, and Control). Each group participated in three periods of practice and instruction on the butterfly arm stroke with breathing according to their treatment. Pre- and post-tests of speed and power showed that both groups utilizing videotape feedback improved significantly in tests of both speed and power at the .05 level, and a significant difference occurred between the Control group and the verbal cues and videotape feedback group in the posttest of power at the .05 level. The Control group improved significantly on the speed tests.
Different molecular weight hyaluronic acid effects on human macrophage interleukin 1β production

This study examined the effect of hyaluronan (HA) molecular weight on immune response. HA with molecular weights ranging from the unitary disaccharide unit (400 Da) up to 1.7 × 10(6) Da and with very low endotoxin contamination level (less than 0.03 EU/mg) was used. Primary human monocyte/macrophage cultures were assayed for IL-1β production under a variety of inflammatory conditions with or without HA. Under the highest inflammatory states, production of interleukin 1β (IL-1β) was suppressed in the presence of high molecular weight hyaluronan (HMW-HA) and in the presence of low molecular weight hyaluronan (LMW-HA) at mg/mL concentrations. There was variability in the sensitivity of the response to HA fragments with MW below 5000 Da at micromolar concentrations. There was variability in IL-1β cytokine productions from donor to donor in unstimulated human cell cultures. This study supplements our previous published study that investigated the immunogenic effect of HA molecular weights using murine cell line RAW264.6, rat splenocytes, and rat adherent differentiated primary macrophages. These data support the hypothesis that if the amount of endotoxin is reduced to an extremely low level, LMW-HA may not directly provoke normal tissue macrophage-mediated inflammatory reactions.
Increasing the semiconducting fraction in ensembles of single-walled carbon nanotubes

Abstract The carbon source and growth conditions for single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) growth in hot-wall chemical vapor deposition affect the chirality of the SWCNT ensemble produced. Raman spectroscopy elucidates the trends of the SWCNT semiconducting percentage grown under different conditions. Field-effect transistors using few SWCNTs per transistor were fabricated to allow for a semiconducting SWCNT enumeration and to confirm these trends. The semiconducting SWCNT percent in isopropanol-based devices peaked at 800 °C with 85% semiconducting. 2-Butanol-based and methane-based devices were 70% and 32% semiconducting, respectively.
The synthesis and novel structure of methyl 7-phenyl-dibenz[a,j]anthracene-14-carboxylate and methyl 5-phenyl-benzo[1,2-h:5,4-h']diquinoline-3-carboxylate: rigid semi-helical aromatic spacers with convergent functional groups

Abstract The synthesis and structure of two novel polycyclic aromatic systems is presented. These systems can act as rigid spacer units for the construction of receptors and synthetic reagents possessing different degrees of helicity and containing convergent functional groups.
Endogenous IGF-I and αVβ3 Integrin Ligands Regulate Increased Smooth Muscle Hyperplasia in Stricturing Crohn's Disease

Background & Aims Insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) regulates human intestinal smooth muscle growth by stimulating proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis. IGF-I-stimulated growth is augmented when αVβ3 integrin is occupied by its ligands, fibronectin and vitronectin. Increased IGF-I expression and muscle cell hyperplasia are features of stricturing Crohn's disease (CD); however, the role of IGF-I in stricture formation is unknown. The aim was to identify the functional role of endogenous IGF-I and αVβ3 integrin ligands in regulating muscle cell hyperplasia in stricturing CD. Methods Smooth muscle cells were isolated from muscularis propria of stricturing CD or normal margins. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction, immunoblot analysis, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used to measure fibronectin, vitronectin, αVβ3 integrin, and IGF-I levels. Activation of the IGF-I receptor, Erk1/2, p70S6 kinase, and GSK-3β was measured by immunoblot. Proliferation was quantified by Ki67 immunostaining and [ 3 H]thymidine incorporation. Apoptosis was measured from caspase-3 cleavage and nucleosome accumulation. Results IGF-I, vitronectin, and fibronectin RNA and protein levels were increased 1.8- to 3.4-fold in muscle cells from strictures over normal margins. Basal IGF-I receptor phosphorylation was increased 320% in strictured over normal muscle, and basal Erk1/2, p70S6 kinase, and GSK-3β phosphorylation were increased 205%–292% in strictures. In muscle cells from strictures, Ki67 immunoreactivity and [ 3 H]thymidine incorporation were increased and apoptosis was decreased compared with normal margins. Antagonists of the IGF-I receptor or αVβ3 integrin reversed these changes. Conclusions Smooth muscle cell hyperplasia in stricturing CD is regulated by increased endogenous IGF-I and αVβ3 integrin ligands that regulate augmented proliferation and diminished apoptosis.
Model for organizational knowledge creation and strategic use of information

Nimble competitors competing in a dynamic global marketspace increasingly characterize the current environment faced by many organizations. Providing the organization's knowledge workers with the tools and technology to mine information and generate insights has become a key issue facing organizations. In this study we investigate the potential combined impact of the use of organizational decision models and competitive intelligence tool proficiency on knowledge creation and strategic use of information competence. Regression analysis results show significant main and interaction effects of the organizational decision models and competitive intelligence tool proficiency on four identified factors of knowledge creation and strategic use of information competence: pattern discovery, strategy appraisal, insight generation, and solution formulation. Organizational implications and future research directions are discussed.
Clarifying the domains of corporate entrepreneurship

While there is a broadly held belief in the need for and inherent value of entrepreneurial action on the part of established organizations, much remains to be revealed about how corporate entrepreneurship (CE) is defined in organizational settings. Fortunately, knowledge accumulation on the topic has been occurring at a rapid rate and many of the elements essential to constructing a theoretically grounded understanding of CE can be readily identified from the extant literature. Corporate entrepreneurship may possess the critical components needed for the future productivity of global organizations. However, it is a far reaching concept that encompasses differing aspects and as research continues to increase in this field a stronger perspective of what constitutes corporate entrepreneurship needs to be examined. Our purpose in this article is to outline the various domains that currently exist in the research arena of corporate entrepreneurship. Exploring these domains and gaining a sharper focus on the corporate entrepreneurship process may be a most important step for scholars interested in moving the field forward.
A TETRACHROME STAIN FOR FRESH , MINERALIZED BONE SECTIONS, USEFUL IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF BONE DISEASES.

Fresh, unprocessed bone is ground to sections 75-100 μ thick, stained in an aqueous solution composed of fast green FCF, 0.1 gm; orange G, 2.0 gm; distilled water, 100.0 ml; and adjusted to pH 6.65, then in a mixture of 1 part alcoholic solution of 0.25% celestine blue B and 9 parts of alcoholic solution of 0.1% basic fuchsin. Surface stain is removed by grinding sections to 50 μ and washing them in 1% invert soap (Zephiran) to remove adherent debris. (Commercial detergents and alkaline soaps may interfere with chromophore groups of the dyes.) Wash in tap water; rinse in distilled water and differentiate in 1% acetic alcohol. Dehydrate in ascending alcohols, clear in xylene and mount permanently in a neutral, synthetic resin. Active osteoid seams stain dark to light green; resting osteoid seams, red to bright orange red; transitional osteoid seams, geenish-yellow, orange red to red; older, partly mineralized matrix, orange; new, partly mineralized matrix, red; osteocyte nuclei, red; osteoblasts and osteoc...
Transitional politics in Afghanistan and Iraq: inclusion, consultation, and public participation

This article explores three main themes in comparing the transitional processes in Afghanistan and Iraq: (i) the clarity of the transitional frameworks and the need to separate discussions on such frameworks from debates on new constitutional arrangements; (ii) the degree of representation in the transitional institutions and the availability of channels for political consultation in the transitional processes; and (iii) the participation of civil society and the public at large in the transition processes.
Distribution of Acarapis woodi Rennie in the tracheae of honey bees

Bien que de nombreux details du cycle evolutif de l'acarien des trachees (Acarapis woodi) soient compris, on connait peu de choses concernant les mouvements des acariens a l'interieur des abeilles et entre elles. Afin de mieux comprendre ces mouvements, nous avons etudie la repartition des infestations d'A woodi entre les trachees des abeilles. Des echantillons de 25 a 30 abeilles ont ete preleves sur les couvre-cadres de 34 colonies a l'automne et de 23 colonies au printemps. Au total 1 512 abeilles ont ete examinees
Justifying graffiti: (Re)defining societal codes through orders of worth

Abstract Graffiti is often defined through the broken window theory that states areas with graffiti will be riddled with other types of crime. This concern continues at a time when some graffiti writers are gaining recognition and viewed as serious artists in certain art circles. This paper looks at US news coverage of graffiti in 2012 to investigate how graffiti is being framed in a public arena. The typical framing is that graffiti is a crime and this is justified through a civic order of worth that fits with the broken window theory. There are, however, instances of graffiti being framed as something else. The various justifications are analyzed to better understand the broader portrayal of this art form.
Micromachined conformal electrode array for retinal prosthesis application

Retinal prosthesis projects around the world have been pursuing a functional replacement system for those with retinal degeneration. In this paper, we will outline the concept for a micromachined conformal electrode array and present preliminary fabrication results. Individual electrodes are designed to float on micromachined springs on a substrate that will enable the adjustment of spring constants and therefore contact force by adjusting the dimensions of the springs at each electrode. This will also allow us to accommodate the varying curvature/topography of the retina. We believe that this approach will provide several advantages by improving the electrode/tissue interface as well as generating some new options for in-situ measurements and overall system design.
Binding of intrinsic factor to ileal brush border membrane in the rat.

Abstract The rat ileal brush border membrane binds both free [125I]-intrinsic factor (IF) and the IF-[57Co]cobalamin (cbl) complex. This binding is observed with IF isolated from rat stomach, but not from IF isolated from hog, canine and human stomachs. The binding of rat-IF[57Co]cbl can be blocked with free rat IF but not with hog IF. The IF-cbl complex binds at a higher affinity (Ka=0.15 × 109 M−1) compared to that of free IF (Ka=0.9 × 109 M−1). Rat IF-cbl also binds efficiently to human and canine ileal membranes. While antibody to the canine ileal receptor blocks the binding of rat, human or hog IF-[57Co]cbl to human and canine ileal membranes, it does not affect the binding of rat IF-[57Co]cbl to rat ileal membranes. These findings demostrate that the rat ileal receptor is different from canine and human ileal receptors.
Rapid Flux in Transforming Growth Factor-β Receptors on Bone Cells

The proportion of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) binding among conventional membrane receptors on bone cells can vary with hormone or growth factor treatment or with the state of osteoblast-like activity and appears to determine the nature of its biological effects. Therefore, functional TGF-β receptor stability could be an important aspect of regulation. Suppression of protein synthesis reduced TGF-β binding to types I and II receptors with t1/2 of 2 h and to betaglycan with t1/2 of 6 h. In contrast, suppression of mRNA transcription reduced TGF-β binding at least 3-fold more slowly at each receptor site. Preexposure to TGF-β decreased its binding at all three sites within 4 h in osteoblast-enriched cultures. This effect was transient with lower TGF-β concentrations, where the receptor profile was nearly fully restored within 24-48 h. In contrast, less differentiated bone cells were less sensitive to ligand-dependent receptor down-regulation. Agents that alter protein kinase and phosphatase activity also modified the TGF-β binding profile in specific ways. Together, these results indicate that cell surface TGF-β receptors turn over rapidly by ligand-independent and ligand-dependent mechanisms, demonstrate that the binding capacity of TGF-β receptors is less stable than their mRNAs, and that functional receptor levels may be determined in part by post-transcriptional events.
Finite Element Predictions of Labrum and Cartilage Mechanics in Dysplastic Human Hips

Acetabular dysplasia, characterized by a shallow acetabulum and decreased coverage of the femoral head (Figure 1), is thought to cause early osteoarthritis due to altered mechanical loading. Clinical observation of hypertrophic labra in dysplastic hips suggests that the labrum supports mechanical load (e.g., [1]). Simulations have predicted increased cartilage contact pressure and decreased contact area in dysplastic hips as potential causes of early osteoarthritis (e.g., [2]), but have been limited by the use of simplified geometry and the omission of the labrum. The objective of this study was to compare labrum and cartilage mechanics between normal and dysplastic hips using a validated approach to subject-specific finite element modeling of the hip.© 2011 ASME
Polarization diversity active imaging

Polarization diversity active imaging is a new active imaging technique which illuminates a scene or target with a sequence of polarization states and then measures images of the polarization state scattered from a scene. These polarization images are then analyzed to determine the polarization characteristics at each pixel by measuring the Mueller matrix image, then mapping the retardance, diattenuation, and depolarization images over the scene. These data sets are used to estimate the plane of incidence and target orientation pixel by pixel.
College Student Epistemological Perspectives across Knowledge Domains: A Proposed Grounded Theory.

Scholars have studied epistemologicaldevelopment – or how one understands knowledgeand knowing – of college students for manyyears. Research in this domain has includedbenchmarking studies of epistemologicaldevelopment, examinations of how curricularinnovations impact epistemology, and somestudies of differences in epistemologicaldevelopment based on disciplinary areas. Thelatter group of studies has generally focusedon differences in epistemological beliefs forstudents who are studying in two differentdomains (e.g., nursing students versus physicsstudents). In this study, we qualitativelyinvestigate whether the epistemologicalperspectives of 60 science/engineering collegestudents differs across the disciplinary areasof the sciences and the humanities. Our resultsindicate that such differences do exist andinclude a proposed grounded theory thatdescribes how students' epistemologies may varyacross knowledge domains.
MCF-7 Cells Expressing Nuclear-associated Lysyl Oxidase-like 2 (LOXL2) Exhibit an Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) Phenotype and are Highly Invasive In Vitro

LOXL2 is a copper- and lysine tyrosylquinone-dependent amine oxidase that has been proposed to function both extracellularly and intracellularly to activate oncogenic signaling pathways leading to EMT and invasion of breast cancer cells. In this study, we selected MCF-7 cells that stably express forms of recombinant LOXL2 differing in their subcellular localizations and catalytic competencies. This enabled us to dissect the molecular functions of intracellular and extracellular LOXL2s and examine their contributions to breast cancer metastasis/invasion. We discovered that secreted LOXL2 (∼100-kDa) is N-glycosylated at Asn-455 and Asn-644, whereas intracellular LOXL2 (∼75-kDa) is nonglycosylated and N-terminally processed, and is primarily associated with the nucleus. Both forms of LOXL2 can oxidize lysine in solution. However, we found that expression of intracellular LOXL2 is more strongly associated with EMT and invasiveness than secreted LOXL2 in vitro. The results indicate that nuclear associated LOXL2 contributes to the stabilization of Snail1 transcription factor at the protein level to induce EMT and promote invasion in vitro, through repression of E-cadherin, occludin, and estrogen receptor-α, and up-regulation of vimentin, fibronectin, and MT1-MMP. Background: LOXL2 induces metastasis/invasion of breast cancer cells. Results: MCF-7 cells expressing nuclear associated LOXL2 have an invasive EMT phenotype. Conclusion: Nuclear associated catalytically competent LOXL2 contributes to stabilization of Snail1 transcription factor. Significance: This is the first study to directly compare the potencies of nuclear associated and secreted LOXL2s in breast cancer metastasis/invasion in vitro.
Seismicity in Subduction Zones from Local and Regional Network Observations

The data provided by local and regional seismograph networks are essential for the solution of many problems of subduction-zone seismology. The capabilities of such networks are limited by the instrumentation currently in common use and the unfavorable source-station geometry often imposed by the regional geography. Nevertheless, important contributions have come from the data gathered in many of the earth’s subduction zones. The accuracy of hypocenter locations based on regional data is affected by the complex velocity structures characteristic of subduction zones, but the problems are now well-understood. Examples of numerous studies of the spatial configurations of the seismicity in subduction zones and consequent interpretations of seismogenesis and subduction processes are reviewed. Studies of the distributions of earthquakes in time and with magnitude, for events down to the microearthquake level, have the potential for clarifying the earthquake-generating processes and, possibly, a basis for earthquake prediction. Other uses of local and regional network data have been for investigations of coda-s and the identification of asperities in subduction zones.
COMPARISON OF ACCELERATOR TYPES

A number of characteristics of accelerators relevant to their use as “meson factories” are discussed and a comparison made of various types on the basis of these properties. In addition to the most popular types for this application—the isochronous cyclotron and the linear accelerator—the f.m. cyclotron, alternating gradient synchrotron, FFAG synchrotron, and electron accelerators are discussed briefly with respect to various attractive features concerning energy, intensity, duty factor, extraction and cost.
The DNA inspector II a program for analyzing and manipulating DNA sequence on the Apple Macintosh

Abstract This paper describes a new set of linked programs for analyzing and manipulating DNA sequences using the Apple Macintosh computer. The Macintosh is ideally suited for this purpose because of its extensive use of icons, pull-down menus, and dialog boxes, which form a very intuitive user interface, and its high-resolution graphics, which produce brilliant displays. Because of the extreme ease of use, the learning time for using the program is literally on the order of 5–10 minutes, thus making available computer analyses for many molecular geneticists who previously were not willing to invest the larger amount of time needed to learn how to run the analysis routines in other programs. The DNA Inspector II carries out all of the day-to-day routines needed in a molecular genetics lab. Results of the analyses can be saved to disk, printed, or transferred directly to other applications (e.g., word processing) through the “clipboard, ” an area of memory shared by all applications. The availability of Apple's relatively low-cost LaserWriter printer allows publication-quality figures to be generated very easily from within the program.
Flow Simulation of N3-X Hybrid Wing-Body Configuration

The N2B hybrid wing body aircraft was conceptually designed to meet environmental and performance goals for the N+2 generation transport set by the subsonic fixed wing project. In this study, flow fields around the N2B configuration is simulated using a Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes flow solver using unstructured meshes. Boundary conditions at engine fan face and nozzle exhaust planes are provided by response surfaces of the NPSS thermodynamic engine cycle model. The present flow simulations reveal challenging design issues arising from boundary layer ingestion offset inlet and nacelle-airframe interference. The N2B configuration can be a good test bed for application of multidisciplinary design optimization technology.
Use of latex particles for analysis of heterokaryon formation and cell fusion.

A simple method for the quick and accurate detection of cell fusion utilizing latex particles as cytoplasmic markers was developed and is reported here. The method is particularly useful for demonstrating human skin fibroblast heterokaryons. Ingestion of latex particles did not affect the growth of primary human and established BHK21/C13 hamster fibroblasts. In addition, somatic cell hybridization between hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase-deficient (HPRT−) and thymidine kinase-deficient (TK−) mutants of BHK21/C13 was also unaffected by latex particle ingestion.
The Analysis of Covariance Structures Goodness-of-Fit Indices

A major problem encountered in covariance structure analyses involves decisions concerning whether or not a given theoretical model adequately represents the data used for its assessment. Given that X2 goodness-of-fit tests are joint functions of the difference between theoretical and empirical covariance structures and sample size, gauging the impact of sample size on such tests is essential. In this paper, we propose a simple index (critical N) and tentative acceptance criterion, which, by focusing on sample size, provide an improved method for assessing goodness-of-fit. Both small- and large-sample examples are presented, illustrating the utility of the proposed method for assessing theoretical models.
Cocaine exposure in vitro induces apoptosis in fetal locus coeruleus neurons by altering the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and through caspase-3 apoptotic signaling.

Cocaine inhibits survival and growth of rat locus coeruleus (LC) neurons, which may mediate alterations in attention, following in utero exposure to cocaine. These effects are most severe in early gestation during peak neuritogenesis. Prenatal cocaine exposure may specifically decrease LC survival through an apoptotic pathway involving caspases. Dissociated fetal LC neurons or substantia nigra (SN) neurons (control) were exposed in vitro to a pharmacologically active dose of cocaine hydrochloride (500 ng/ml) and assayed for apoptosis using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated DNA nick end labeling and Hoechst methodologies. Cocaine exposure decreased survival and induced apoptosis in LC neurons, with no changes in survival of SN neurons. Activation of apoptotic signal transduction proteins was determined using enzyme assays and immunoblotting at 30 min, 1 h, 4 h and 24 h. In LC neurons, Bax levels were induced at 30 min and 1 h, following cocaine treatment, and Bcl-2 levels remained unchanged at all time points, altering the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. The ratio was reversed for SN neurons (elevated Bcl-2 levels and transient reduction of Bax levels). Further, cocaine exposure significantly increased caspase-9 and caspase-3 activities at all time points, without changes in caspase-8 activity in LC neurons. In addition, cleavage of caspase-3 target proteins, α-fodrin and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) were observed following cocaine treatment. In contrast, SN neurons showed either significant reductions, or no significant changes, in caspase-3, -8 or -9 activities or caspase-3 target proteins, α-fodrin and PARP. Thus, cocaine exposure in vitro may preferentially induce apoptosis in fetal LC neurons putatively regulated by Bax, via activation of caspases and their downstream target proteins.
How Sex Became Gender

This article argues that "sex" which had been commonly assumed in the West to refer to a permanent set of biological and behavioural traits particular to men and women, is gradually being replaced in general usage by "gender." Though feminist theorists attempted to attach a constructivist meaning to gender, a generation of developmental theorists, clinicians and analysts has imbued the term with the determinism and biological qualities formerly ascribed to "sex." The triumph of this materialist conception of gender is not assured, but it threatens our ability to think about gender identity as a historically-constructed category.
The St. Petersburg paradox: A resolution for impatient risk seekers

If the St. Petersburg game is played in real time, gamblers will discount their possible payoffs subjectively due to impatience. Risk-neutral individuals and some risk seekers will not pay an infinite sum to play the game. For three different risk-seeking utility functions, this paper derives conditions under which a gambler, with each utility function, refuses to pay an infinite sum to play the game.
Bid regulates the pathogenesis of neurotropic reovirus.

Reovirus infection leads to apoptosis in both cultured cells and the murine central nervous system (CNS). NF-κB-driven transcription of proapoptotic cellular genes is required for the effector phase of the apoptotic response. Although both extrinsic death-receptor signaling pathways and intrinsic pathways involving mitochondrial injury are implicated in reovirus-induced apoptosis, mechanisms by which either of these pathways are activated and their relationship to NF-κB signaling following reovirus infection are unknown. The proapoptotic Bcl-2 family member, Bid, is activated by proteolytic cleavage following reovirus infection. To understand how reovirus integrates host signaling circuits to induce apoptosis, we examined proapoptotic signaling following infection of Bid-deficient cells. Although reovirus growth was not affected by the absence of Bid, cells lacking Bid failed to undergo apoptosis. Furthermore, we found that NF-κB activation is required for Bid cleavage and subsequent proapoptotic signaling. To examine the functional significance of Bid-dependent apoptosis in reovirus disease, we monitored fatal encephalitis caused by reovirus in the presence and absence of Bid. Survival of Bid-deficient mice was significantly enhanced in comparison to wild-type mice following either peroral or intracranial inoculation of reovirus. Decreased reovirus virulence in Bid-null mice was accompanied by a reduction in viral yield. These findings define a role for NF-κB-dependent cleavage of Bid in the cell death program initiated by viral infection and link Bid to viral virulence.
The Association between Circumcision Status and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection among Homosexual Men

To evaluate whether uncircumcised status is correlated with acquisition of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), 502 homosexual men were surveyed; 85% were circumcised. HIV infection was significantly associated with uncircumcised status (odds ratio [OR], 2.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2, 3.8), nonwhite race, intravenous drug use, sexual contact with an intravenous drug user, number of male partners, frequency of unprotected receptive anal intercourse, and with history of genital herpes, anal herpes, or syphilis. Uncircumcised status was significantly associated with older age, nonwhite race, and history of syphilis; it was inversely associated with intravenous drug use. Using logistic regression analysis, the adjusted OR for the association between HIV infection and uncircumcised status was 2.0 (95% CI, 1.0, 4.0). Uncircumcised homosexual men had 2-fold increased risk of HIV infection. The role of circumcision as an intervention strategy to reduce sexual transmission of HIV warrants consideration.
An interactive boundary-layer method for multielement airfoils

Abstract A calculation method for the aerodynamic prediction of multielement airfoils based on an interactive boundary-layer approach using an improved Cebeci–Smith eddy viscosity formulation is described. Results are first presented for single airfoils at low and moderate Reynolds numbers in order to demonstrate the need to calculate transition for accurate drag polar prediction and the ability of the improved Cebeci–Smith turbulence model to predict flows with extensive separation, and therefore to predict maximum lift coefficient. Results, in terms of pressure distributions and lift, drag and moment coefficients, are presented for a series of multielement airfoils with flaps and slats. The importance of the compressibility effects and the turbulence model on stall, and, again, the need to calculate the onset of transition, are demonstrated. Finally, recommendations are made for the preferred approach to predicting the aerodynamic performance of multielement airfoils for use as a practical and efficient design tool.
Stability of pressure boundary conditions for Stokes and Navier-Stokes equations

Abstract The stability of a finite difference discretization of the time-dependent incompressible Navier–Stokes equations in velocity-pressure formulation is studied. In paticular, we compare the stability for different pressure boundary conditions in a semiimplicit time-integration scheme. where only the viscous term is treated implicitly. The stability is studied in three different ways: by a normal-mode analysis, by numerical computation of the amplification factors, and by direct numerical simulation of the governing equations. All three approaches identify the same pressure boundary condition as the best alternative. This condition implicitly enforces the normal derivative of the divergence to be zero on the boundary by coupling the normal derivative of the pressure to the normal component of the curl of the vorticity. Using this boundary condition, we demonstrate that the time-step is determined only by the convective term.
Do ankle-foot orthoses improve gait for individuals with cerebral palsy?

Patients/materials andmethods: 23 subjectswith BSCP (preop 11±2,5, postop 13±2,5 ages), GMFCS level I–III, who underwent postoperative 3DGA (MXF40 Vicon system, 3 AMTI force plates), walking with and without AFO’s were included. Data from three walking situations; (1) preoperative barefoot, (2) postoperative barefoot and (3) postoperative wearing AFO’s were compared for temporal spatial variables and using GPS andMAP scores for pelvic, hip, knee and ankle kinematic data. ANOVA and post hoc (Bonferroni) tests were used to examine significant differences between the situations. Results:Using AFO’s, stride length significantly increasedwhile maintaining velocity and reducing cadence. Hip and pelvis sagittal plane MAP scores were significantly and equally reduced in both postoperative situations. Scores for knee and ankle sagittal plane, hip rotation and foot progression were significantly reduced postoperativelywithhigher, butnon-significant reductionsusingAFO’s. Thehighest postoperative reductions inMAPscores of 8.4◦ for barefoot and 9.5◦ for AFO situationswere seen in the knee sagittal plane variable (p<0.000).The overall GPS was significantly reduced in both postoperative conditions (p<0.000), with a mean difference of 4.7◦ walking barefoot and 5.2◦ wearing AFO’s. Discussion & conclusions: After years of rehabilitative treatment to improve function, there is often an inherent expectation that the surgery and the patients’ post-operative efforts would improve the gait function to such an extent that orthoses would be redundant. However, the results from this study confirm additional improvement that to someextent justifies recommendations based on the post-operative 3DGA that promoted continued use of AFO’s in 37 of the 46 limbs. GPS and MAP results are comprehensive tools in evaluating the outcome after surgery, but do not offer detailed information concerning joint motion in the various parts of the gait cycle. There is a need to further investigate the contribution of AFO’s influence on gait function after lower limb surgery and to evaluate the correlation between clinical judgements and results from 3DGA. Significant reductions of GPS and MAP variables confirm gait patterns that are less different from typically developing children one year post lower limb surgery. In addition, results indicate additional improvement on several gait variables using AFO’s.
Energy Conserving, Liouville, and Symplectic Integrators

In this paper, we construct an integrator that converves volume in phase space. We compare the results obtained using this method and a symplectic integrator. The results of our experiments do not reveal any superiority of the symplectic over strictly volume-preserving integrators. We also investigate the effect of numerically conserving energy in a numerical process by rescaling velocities to keep energy constant at every step. Our results for Henon-Heiles problem show that keeping energy constant in this way destroys ergodicity and forces the solution onto a periodic orbit.
Fisher's Exact Probability Test for Cross-Classification Tables

Algorithms and associated FORTRAN subroutines for the Fisher exact probability test are presented. R by C cross-classification tables up to five degrees of freedom are considered. These include the 2 × 2, 3 × 2, 4 × 2, 3 × 3, 5 × 2, and 6 × 2 tables. The use of recursion and an arbitrary initial value ensures computational efficiency.
Correlation of complex ascites with intestinal gangrene and perforation in neonates with necrotizing enterocolitis.

Abstract Background/Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine whether a correlation exists between the finding of complex ascites on ultrasound (US) and the presence of intestinal perforation or gangrene in neonates with complicated necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Methods Charts of neonates with NEC (n = 76) whose care involved consultations with the pediatric surgery service between 2005 and 2008 were reviewed. Twenty-three babies with NEC without free air had a bedside abdominal US. Neonates with pneumoperitoneum were excluded from the study because this was an absolute indication for surgical intervention. Results Twelve of the 23 neonates who had a bedside abdominal US were found to have ascites with debris or complex ascites. One of these 12 patients improved with medical management, and the ascites resolved. One infant with complex ascites had an initial laparotomy that revealed extensive bowel necrosis and gangrene that required intestinal resection and ostomy creation. This infant survived and is currently doing well. Ten patients were critically ill and were managed with bedside peritoneal drainage. Of those, 7 had drainage of intestinal contents after placement of the drain. Two of the babies who had a drain placed for complex ascites subsequently died of progressive disease. Five neonates with ascites with debris improved after peritoneal drainage and were subsequently subjected to laparotomy. All had gangrene with intestinal perforation. Three infants with complex ascites and intestinal contents were not observed during the initial peritoneal drainage. They improved after peritoneal drainage and had laparotomy. Free intestinal perforation was not demonstrated. The 3 infants in this group survived. Conclusions The presence of complex ascites with debris correlated well with intestinal gangrene or perforation. This correlation may also be a predictor of mortality. Neonates with complicated NEC without clear indication for surgical intervention would benefit from bedside abdominal US evaluation.
A light emitting diode skin reflectance oximeter.

An instrument for monitoring backscattered light from living tissue, in two wavelengths, is described. The backscattered light data is used for thein vivo determination of the blood's relative oxygen saturation. The instrument contains a small optical transducer, 0·75 in. (19 mm) in diameter, with red and infra-red light emitting diodes (L.E.D.'s) and a photodetector. This small and easy to apply transducer allows monitoring the reflectance in various locations on the body. The light emitting diodes are controlled by a line synchronized pulse generator which alternatively drives the L.E.D.'s. The detection is accomplished synchronously and the photodetector's output is separated into red and infra-red channels, by means of a chopper and hold cicuits. This information is currently processed by a computer, with the intention of developing an optimal compact analogue processor.
Kalevipoeg and his South Slavic relations

The culmination of the life work of the great Estonian folklorist August Annist is his three-volume study of Kalevipoegboth of the hero of the legends and of the epic compiled by Friedrich Reinhold Kreutzwald and bearing the same name.1 In this work Annist clarifies the folklore background of the Kalevipoeg traditions, traces the history of the compilation of Kreutzwald's epic and analyzes the epic as a work of art. In his treatment of Kalevipoeg in Estonian folklore, Annist gives abundant parallels both from the East and the West. However, he and the other Kalevipoeg scholar, Eduard Laugaste, hardly ever touch upon the South Slavic tradition.2 My studies have revealed that there are considerable coincidences between the legends of Kalevipoeg and the South Slaivc (and Caucasian) heroic traditions, the comparative discussion of which will provide further insights into both of them. In this study I am going to discuss one group of such legendsthose about the heroes' tragic downfalls, their causes and consequences.
Effects of ethanol and 3-mercaptopicolinic acid on isoproterenol and epinephrine-induced changes in glucose homeostasis in normal and alloxan-diabetic rats.

Abstract The relative contribution of gluconeogenesis to the catecholamine-induced hyperglycemic response in rats remains controversial. In the present study, fasted rats were treated acutely with either ethanol or 3-mercaptopicolinic acid and then challenged later with saline, epinephrine or isoproterenol. Pretreatment with either agent suppressed the hyperglycemic response to isoproterenol more than the response to epinephrine. Isoproterenol-induced changes in blood lactate were augmented by ethanol pretreatment in normal fasted rats. In alloxan-diabetic rats, the augmented hyperglycemic response to isoproterenol was partially suppressed by pretreatment with ethanol or 3-mercaptopicolinic acid. Interestingly, pretreatment of normal, fed rats with ethanol unmasked a hyperglycemic response to isoproterenol which appeared to be the result of inhibition of insulin release. These data suggest that the hyperglycemic response to catecholamines in normal, fasted and alloxan-diabetic rats is due, in part, to stimulation of gluconeogenesis and that the response to isoproterenol in fasted rats is more dependent upon gluconeogenesis than is the response to epinephrine.