cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of histone readers bromodomain extra-terminal proteins alleviates scleroderma fibrosis

ObjectivesBinding of the bromodomain and extra-terminal domain proteins (BETs) to acetylated histone residues is critical for gene transcription in many fibrotic diseases. This study sought to determine the anti-fibrotic efficacy and potential mechanisms of BET inhibition in scleroderma (SSc). MethodsDermal fibroblasts were isolated from biopsies from healthy subjects or patients with diffuse cutaneous (dc)SSc. Fibroblasts were treated with pan BET inhibitor JQ1, BRD2 inhibitor BIC1, or BRD4 inhibitors AZD5153 or ARV825. Knockdown of BETs was achieved by siRNA transfection. The in vivo anti-fibrotic efficacy of JQ1 was determined in a bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis mouse model. T-test or ANOVA were used to compare differences between groups, and a p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. ResultsBET inhibitor JQ1 dose-dependently downregulated pro-fibrotic genes in dcSSc fibroblasts, and inhibited cell migration and gel contraction. It suppressed proliferation by inducing cell cycle arrest. The anti-fibrotic effects of JQ1 were also observed in TGF{beta}-treated normal fibroblasts. JQ1 prevented bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis in mice. The anti-fibrotic effect of JQ1 was mediated by inhibition of BRD4, as specific blockade or knockdown of BRD4 led to downregulation of fibrotic markers and inhibition of myofibroblast properties, while inhibition or knockdown of BRD2 or BRD3 had minimal effects in dcSSc fibroblasts. ConclusionsBET inhibition showed promising anti-fibrotic effects in SSc both in vitro and in vivo. Specifically, we showed that BRD4 plays a critical role in SSc fibrosis and that targeting BRD4 might be a novel therapeutic option for this disease. Significance statementBlockade of histone readers bromodomain extra-terminal proteins (BETs) shows potent anti-fibrotic properties in SSc dermal fibroblasts and bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis model. Among the BETs, BRD4 appears to regulate essential processes involved in SSc fibrosis. Results from this study provide the scientific foundation for the use of BET or BRD4 inhibitors in treating SSc.
Tiny Donations, Big Impact: How Small-Dollar Donors are Eroding the Power of Party Insiders

The shift to small- dollar fundraising in the 2020 Democratic nomination contest is not only a change in how campaigns operate. Campaigns that depended on small donors also shifted their rhetoric and behavior, flaunting their “outsider,” populist credentials and decrying politics as usual. The new power of small donors has the potential to be the greatest challenge to the control of party elites over the presidential nomination process since the reforms of the 1970s.
End of life care during the COVID-19 pandemic: Professional influence on a personal loss.

Being an oncology social worker has taught me many things. The balance of life and death is perhaps the most powerful lesson. During fifteen years in oncology social work, I have had the honor of h...
Recognition and Treatment of Bradycardias and Atrioventricular Block

Summary There are several concerns when a patient with bradycardia or conduction abnormalities must undergo anesthesia and surgery. First is the possibility that the arrhythmia will worsen intraoperatively. A second concern is whether pharmacologic interventions would be effective if hemodynamic instability occurs. A third concern is whether a pacemaker should be placed preoperatively or whether standby facilities31,72 (external pacing)111 are sufficient. A knowledge of the site of the arrhythmia, its expected physiology and natural history can be of help to answer these concerns. Conduction disturbances high in the system (such as AV node) generally are benign since they do not progress to more severe conduction blockade, they respond to pharmacologic agents such as atropine and isoproterenol, and their escape pacemaker is fast enough to maintain hemodynamic stability. Disturbances lower in the system are rare, more pathologic, and frequently result in hemodynamic instability. The individual arrhythmias of sick sinus syndrome, first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree AV block have been discussed. It is hoped that this discussion will aid in the planning of a safe intraoperative course for patients with these disorders.
Esophageal atresia/tracheoesophageal fistula and proximal symphalangism in a patient with a NOG nonsense mutation

Esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula (EA/TEF) are relatively common malformations of the human foregut. The etiology remains incompletely understood with genetic causes identified in a small minority of affected patients. We present the case of a newborn with type C EA/TEF along with proximal symphalangism found to have a de novo NOG nonsense mutation. Patients with chromosome 17q deletions including the NOG gene have previously been reported to have EA/TEF but mutations in the gene have not been identified in patients with this malformation. This case provides evidence that haploinsufficiency for NOG may be the cause for EA/TEF in the 17q deletion syndrome and suggests that the clinical spectrum of NOG-related symphalangism spectrum disorders may include EA/TEF.
A Retrospective Study Comparing Three Surgical Techniques for Correction of Left Abomasal Displacements in Lactating Dairy Cattle (1999-2003)

Several surgical techniques have been advocated for correction of left displaced abomasum in cattle. A retrospective study was performed to compare three surgical techniques for fixation of left abomasal displacements in lactating dairy cattle. The right flank omentopexy, omento-abomasopexy (omento-pyloropexy) and the left flank abomasopexy were compared. We hypothesized that there was a significant difference between the success rates of these three techniques. Differences in success were measured by comparing the milk production of the cattle before and after surgery. The objective of the study was to assess ifthere is a significant advantage of one surgical technique over another.
Retrograde intramedullary nailing of comminuted intra-articular distal femur fractures results in high union rate

Retrograde intramedullary nailing of intra-articular distal femur fractures with metaphyseal and/or epiphyseal comminution is controversial and considered a contraindication to nailing. The purpose of this study was to report union rate, complications, and secondary procedures after open reduction and retrograde intramedullary nailing of comminuted, intra-articular, distal femur fractures. A retrospective review performed at an urban level one trauma center identified 16 patients AO/Orthopedic Trauma Association (OTA) 33-C2 and 33-C3 femur fractures treated with open reduction, lag screws, and retrograde intramedullary nail fixation. Radiographic union, complications, secondary operations were reviewed. At the 3-month follow-up 12 (86%) of the 14 patients with radiographs had healed. At last follow-up, all 16 femur fractures achieved radiographic union after the index procedure. No patient required a revision procedure for delayed union or nonunion. Complications occurred in 6 (38%) patients, including failed distal interlocking screws (n = 2), knee arthrofibrosis (n = 3), superficial wound infection (n = 1), and wound dehiscence (n = 1). Three (19%) patients required secondary procedures, which included knee manipulation under anesthesia (n = 3), distal interlocking screw removal (n = 2), and closure of a wound dehiscence (n = 1). Comminuted intra-articular distal femur fractures that can be successfully treated with retrograde IMN fixation will reliably go on to union with a complication rate that is favorable to that reported for plate fixation. Level IV, retrospective case-series.
Mapping Expansive Uses of Human Dignity in International Criminal Law

The label “incitement” could never fully do justice to the depths of ethnic hatred that pervaded Rwandan media during and leading up to the 1994 genocide.
The Psychology and Ethology of Learning

There are two major traditions in the study of learning in animals, a general process perspective within experimental psychology, and a view of learning as niche-specific behavioral adaptation within ethology. Modern work in animal learning benefits from ideas that stem from each of these traditions. In this review, we develop some key ideas within each of these separate traditions, including the organization of species-typical and how it might be modified by experience as well as a review of several influencial models in the study of animal learning such as the Rescorla-Wagner model and more recent critiques of this model. We then discuss three case studies that show how more synthetic approaches can provide important insights into the nature of learning. We describe synthetic analyses of: (1) learning and memory processes in bird song, (2) rats, learning to anticipate food in standard laboratory conditioning tasks, and (3) sexual conditioning in Japanese quail. These analyses are characterized by concern with ethological questions of adaptive function and evolution, exploitation of analytic tools and theories developed within the general process tradition, and a unifying interest in neurobiological mechanism. Keywords: bird song; food anticipation; general process theory; neuroethology; quail; rats; Rescorla-Wagner; sexual conditiong
Does a First-Born Female Child Bring Mood Risks to New Asian American Mothers?

ABSTRACT Objective To define the relationship between gender of the first-born child and mood in Asian American mothers. Design A secondary analysis was used to address the objectives of the study. Setting The sample was obtained from the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) of 40 states in the United States. Participants The sample included 1,310 women of Asian origin who delivered their first children during the prior 2- to 4-month period. Methods Based on data from the PRAMS survey mailed 2- to 4-months postpartum, participants were selected for inclusion in the study sample from those who had given birth to their first children and were of Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, or other Asian origin. Chi squared analyses and an independent sample t test were used to assess the relationship between the child's sex and the mother's response to three PRAM mood questions; a single score was generated by summing the responses to the three questions. Results There were no significant ( p > .05) differences in rate of mood symptoms or the means of the aggregated score related to a child's gender. Conclusion The study findings are similar to those reported in the United Kingdom and suggest that the cultural preference for a son is not a significant mood risk in Asian American women.
The Influence of Plasma Density Irregularities on Whistler-Mode Wave Propagation

Whistler mode (W-mode) waves are profoundly affected by Field- Aligned Density Irregularities (FAI) present in the magnetosphere. These irregu- larities, present in all parts of the magnetosphere, occur at scale lengths ranging from a few meters to several hundred kilometers and larger. Given the spatial sizes of FAI and typical wavelength of W-mode waves found in the magnetosphere, it is convenient to classify FAI into three broad categories: large scale FAI, large scale FAI of duct-type, and small scale FAI. We discuss experimental results and their interpretations which provide physical insight into the effects of FAI on whistler (W) mode wave propagation. It appears that FAI, large or small scale, influence the prop- agation of every kind of W-mode waves originating on the ground or in space. There are two ways FAI can influence W-mode propagation. First, they provide W-mode waves accessibility to regions otherwise not reachable. This has made it possible for W-mode waves to probe remote regions of the magnetosphere, rendering them as a powerful remote sensing tool. Second, they modify the wave structure which may have important consequences for radiation belt dynamics via wave-particle interac- tions. We conclude with a discussion of outstanding questions that must be answered in order to determine the importance of FAI in the propagation of W-mode waves and on the overall dynamics of wave-particle interactions in the magnetosphere.
Glucose, memory, and aging

Circulating glucose concentrations regulate many brain functions, including learning and memory. Much of the evidence for this view comes from experiments assessing stress-related release of epinephrine with subsequent increases in blood glucose concentrations. One application of this work has been to investigate whether age-related memory impairments result from dysfunctions in the neuroendocrine regulation of the brain processes responsible for memory. Like humans, aged rodents exhibit some memory impairments that can be reversed by administration of epinephrine or glucose. In elderly humans, ingestion of glucose enhances some cognitive functions, with effects best documented thus far on tests of verbal contextual and noncontextual information. Glucose also effectively enhances cognition in persons with Alzheimer disease or Down syndrome. Although earlier evidence suggested that glucose does not enhance cognitive function in healthy young adults, more recent findings suggest that glucose is effective in this population, provided the tests are sufficiently difficult. In college students, glucose consumption significantly enhanced memory of material in a paragraph. Glucose also appeared to enhance attentional processes in these students. Neither face and word recognition nor working memory was influenced by treatment with glucose. The neurobiological mechanisms by which glucose acts are under current investigation. Initial evidence suggests that glucose or a metabolite may activate release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in rats when they are engaged in learning. Consequently, the issue of nutrition and cognition becomes increasingly important in light of evidence that circulating glucose concentrations have substantial effects on brain and cognitive functions.
Readability and human interest scores of twenty‐eight books on psychoanalytic technique

Presented the readability and human interest scores of 28 books on psychoanalytic technique and briefly discussed in relation to "psychoanalyeese" and psychotherapy training.
A satellite cell mitogen from crushed adult muscle

Single fiber-satellite cell units from skeletal muscle of adult rats were used to study the regulation of satellite cell proliferation. The satellite cells remained quiescent during culture in serum-containing medium but could be induced to enter the cell cycle by exposure to a saline extract of crushed adult muscle. The activity in the extract has a molecular weight greater than 30K and is heat and trypsin sensitive. The mitogenic activity does not result from transferrin. Little or no activity was obtained from crushed extracts of heterologous tissues. Proliferation of myogenic cells from rat embryos was also stimulated by the muscle mitogen but growth of muscle fibroblasts was not enhanced. The time response of satellite cell proliferation after exposure to the muscle mitogen showed that the cells enter DNA synthesis after a lag period of 18 hr and proliferate with a generation time of 12 hr. This confirms that satellite cells in adult muscle are in G0, or an extended G1. The mitogen is also effective in stimulating muscle growth and myoblast fusion in vivo when injected into 1-week-old rat pups. These experiments suggest that muscle regeneration is initiated by the release of an endogenous mitogen from traumatized muscle.
Stimulation of canine pancreatic polypeptide, gastrin, and gastric acid secretion by ranatensin, litorin, bombesin nonapeptide and substance p

Abstract Four dogs with chronic gastric fistulas were given intravenous bombesin nonapeptide (B9), ranatensin, and litorin by constant infusion for 90 min at 1.2 μg·kg −1 ·h −1 on separate days. A dose response study with substance P (1.5, 3.0, 60, 18 and 54 μg·kg −1 ·h t-1 was also carried out and all tests compared to a standard protein meal (10 μg·kg −1 . Plasma gastrin and PP were measured by radioimmunoassay and gastric acid by autobiuret titration. Substance P failed to stimulate gastric acid secretion or release either pancreatic polypeptide (PP) or gastrin. Basal gastrin levels were 8±2 fmol/ml. The peak increment of gastrin released by bombesin was 95±16 , ranatensin 22±6 , litorin 18±4 , and meal 39±5 fmol/ml. Bombesin caused significantly greater release of gastrin than a meal, litorin or ranatensin (P Basal gastric secretion was 23±4 μequiv./min. B9 produced a peak acid secretion of 356±124 μequiv./min. There are no significant difference between the bombesin-like peptides ( P ). Basal plasma PP was 38±12 fmol/ml. B9 produced a peak PP increment of 600±50 , litorin 137±36 , ranatensin 98±11 , and a meal 305±58 fmol/ml. B9 released significantly more PP than either litorin or ranatensin ( P ). The different amino acid sequences of the peptides are probably responsible for their potency. The substitution of a penultimate phenylalanine residue in litorin and ranabombesin, alytensin, and litorin suggesting that it might have other effects as yet undescribed.
Integration of Information Between the Cerebral Hemispheres

ity in dichotic perception of vocal nonverbal sounds. Canadian Journal of Psychology, 26,111 116. Ladavas, E., Umilta, C, & Ricci-Bitti, P.E. (1980). Evidence for sex differences in right hemisphere dominance for emotions. Neuro psychologia, 18, 361-366. Landis, Tv Assal, G., & Perret, E. (1979). Opposite cerebral hemispheric superiorities for visual associative processing of emotional facial ex pressions and objects. Nature, 278, 739-740. Lang, P.J., Bradley, M.M., & Cuthbert, B.N. (1990). Emotion, attention, and the startle reflex. Psy chological Review, 97, 377-398. Ley, Rv & Bryden, M.P. (1982). Hemispheric dif ferences in processing emotions and faces. Brain and Language, 7,127-138. MacLean, P.D. (1949). Psychosomatic disease and the "visceral brain'': Recent developments bearing on the Papez theory of emotion. Psy chosomatic Medicine, 11, 338-353. Nitschke, J.B., Heller, W., & Miller, G.A. (in press). The neuropsychology of anxiety. In J.C. Borod (Ed.), The neuropsychology of emotion. New York: Oxford University Press. Nitschke, J.B., Heller, W., Palmieri, P.A., & Miller, G.A. (1998). Contrasting patterns of brain activity in anxious apprehension and anxious arousal. Manuscript submitted for publication. Papez, J.W. (1937). A proposed mechanism of emotion. Archives of Neurological Psychiatry, 38, 725-743. Robinson, R.G., Kubos, K.L., Starr, L.B., Rao, K., & Price, T.R. (1984). Mood disorders in stroke patients: Importance of location of lesion. Brain, 107, 81-93. Rourke, B.P. (1988). The syndrome of Nonverbal Learning Disabilities: Developmental manifes tations in neurological disease, disorder, and dysfunction. Clinical Neuropsychologist, 2, 293 330. Semrud, CM., & Hynd, G.W. (1990). Right hemi sphere dysfunction in nonverbal learning dis abilities: Social, academic, and adaptive func tioning in adults and children. Psychological Bulletin, 107, 196-209.
The crystal structure of a complex of cycloheptaamylose with 2,5-diiobobenzoic acid

Abstract The molecular structure of the 1:1 complex of cycloheptaamylose with 2,5-diiodobenzoic acid has been determined by X-ray crystallography. The iodine atoms of the guest molecular are disordered and were not used in the structure determination. The cycloheptaamylose molecules form channels in the crystal by means of head to head and tail to tail association using the two-fold crystallographic axis.
Kainic acid-induced scizures in aged rats: Neurochemical correlates

This study was conducted to assess the functional integrity of the kainate receptor-mediated seizure response in aged rats. Kainic acid was administered systemically to aged female Long-Evans (LE) rats and aged male F344 rats and the proconvulsant actions of kainic acid was compared to adult controls. The effects of kainic acid on brain regional content of monoamines and amino acids was also determined in the aged female LE and adult control rats. The latency to full clonic-tonic seizures was significantly reduced in aged female LE rats, and the number of seizures was significantly increased above that of the controls. There was increased mortality and a reduction in the latency to exhibit wet dog shakes in the aged F344 rats. Studies were also conducted to evaluate the role of ovarian hormones, route of administration, and dose of kainic acid in mediating the enhanced proconvulsant actions of kainic acid in aged rats. The neurochemical studies suggested that kainic acid significantly enhanced the release of ASP, GLU, and norepinephrine (NE) in the aged rats exhibiting clonic-tonic seizures. The adult rats given the same dose of kainic acid (15 mg/kg, IP) did not exhibit any significant change in brain content of monoamines or amino acids except for a reduction in mediobasal hypothalamic NE. An in vitro study was also conducted using brain slices from adult and aged F344 and it was found that aged rats released significantly more ASP than adults in response to kainic acid. These neurochemical findings were discussed in relation to previous studies of age-related alterations in excitatory amino acids (EAAs) and the role of EAA and NE in modulating limbic seizures. This study has clearly demonstrated that aged rats may be more susceptible to the excitotoxic action of EEAs acting through kainetic receptors.
Umbilical venous catheter malposition and errors in interpretation in newborns with Bochdalek hernia

Neonates with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) often require placement of lines and tubes for supportive therapy. The resulting altered anatomy can result in diagnostic errors when interpreting the location of support lines and tubes such as UVCs (umbilical venous catheters). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of CDH on UVC position and to evaluate the accuracy at which radiologists describe the position on chest radiographs. During a 5-year period, 406 chest radiographs performed within 7 days of birth in infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia were identified and reviewed for the following data: presence of UVC, location of catheter tip (cavoatrial junction, intracardiac, intrahepatic or umbilical vein), and location of CDH (right or left). The radiologic report of the UVC tip location for each case was then reviewed individually to determine the adequacy of interpretation. Inadequate reports were classified as incorrect (the wrong location of the catheter tip was reported), no mention (the location of the catheter tip was in a suboptimal location but not mentioned), and not specified (the precise location of the catheter tip was not clearly stated in the report when the tip was in a suboptimal location). A total of 60 infants were identified as having CDH (56 on the left, 4 on the right). The most common location for an incorrectly placed UVC was the contralateral chest, accounting for 26.7% (16/60) of the infants, followed by an abdominal intrahepatic location (16.7%) and the umbilical vein (8.3%). Thirty percent (120/406) of the chest radiograph reports were found to be inadequate regarding the interpretation of the location of the catheter tip. The majority of the inadequate reports (48/406, 11.8%) did not specify when the catheter tip was in a suboptimal location. In 37 reports (9.1%), the location of the catheter tip was reported incorrectly, and no mention of the catheter location was made in 35 reports (8.6%). The location of an UVC in an infant with Bochdalek hernia can pose a diagnostic challenge because of the altered anatomy and change in the expected course of the catheter. Familiarity with the altered anatomy and vigilance of the various abnormal locations in which UVCs can be placed can help optimize management for the child and reduce morbidity and mortality.
Evaluation of optical coherence quantitation of analytes in turbid media by use of two wavelengths

We introduce a novel method for determining analyte concentration as a function of depth in a highly scattering media by use of a dual-wavelength optical coherence tomography system. We account for the effect of scattering on the measured attenuation by using a second wavelength that is not absorbed by the sample. We assess the applicability of this technique by measuring the concentration of water in an Intralipid phantom, using a probe wavelength of 1.53 microm and a reference wavelength of 1.31 microm. The results of our study show a strong correlation between the measured absorption and the water content of the sample. The accuracy of the technique, however, was limited by the dominance of scattering over absorption in the turbid media. Thus, although the effects of scattering were minimized, significant errors remained in the calculated absorption values. More-accurate results could be obtained with the use of more powerful superluminescent diodes and a choice of wavelengths at which absorption effects are more significant relative to scattering.
Preparation of (−)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrofolate using immobilized dihydrofolate reductase

Abstract Dihydrofolate reductase from methotrexate-resistant Lactobacillus casei was immobilized on carbodiimide-activated CH-Sepharose. The immobilized enzyme was utilized in the synthesis of (−)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrofolate from dihydrofolate and NADPH in a batchwise reaction system. The products of the reaction, (−)-tetrahydrofolate and NADP + , were separated on a Sephadex G-10 column equilibrated with 50 m m NH 4 HCO 3 containing β-mercaptoethanol and ethanol. The tetrahydrofolate was then characterized by ultraviolet and circular dichroic spectra and its reactivity as a cofactor in the thymidylate synthetase reaction.
NASA applications for acousto-optic spectrometers

Small, compact, and rugged IF spectrometers are needed in high resolution heterodyne receivers designed for a new generation of space-borne telescopes planned for the next decade. Acousto-optic Spectrometers (AOS) promise to provide the necessary bandwidth and resolution in a package which is compact, power efficient, and ruggedized for space applications. Sensitivity, linearity, and stability are the primary goals of an astronomical receiver and these features must be demonstrated in order for an AOS to be accepted in place of more conventional RF or digital technology.
Lower Extremity Muscle Activity During a Women's Overhand Lacrosse Shot

The purpose of this study was to describe lower extremity muscle activity during the lacrosse shot. Participants (n=5 females, age 22±2 years, body height 162.6±15.2 cm, body mass 63.7±23.6 kg) were free from injury and had at least one year of lacrosse experience. The lead leg was instrumented with electromyography (EMG) leads to measure muscle activity of the rectus femoris (RF), biceps femoris (BF), tibialis anterior (TA), and medial gastrocnemius (GA). Participants completed five trials of a warm-up speed shot (Slow) and a game speed shot (Fast). Video analysis was used to identify the discrete events defining specific movement phases. Full-wave rectified data were averaged per muscle per phase (Crank Back Minor, Crank Back Major, Stick Acceleration, Stick Deceleration). Average EMG per muscle was analyzed using a 4 (Phase) × 2 (Speed) ANOVA. BF was greater during Fast vs. Slow for all phases (p 0.05). RF and GA were each influenced by the interaction of Phase and Speed (p<0.05) with GA being greater during Fast vs. Slow shots during all phases and RF greater during Crank Back Minor and Major as well as Stick Deceleration (p<0.05) but only tended to be greater during Stick Acceleration (p=0.076) for Fast vs. Slow. The greater muscle activity (BF, RF, GA) during Fast vs. Slow shots may have been related to a faster approach speed and/or need to create a stiff lower extremity to allow for faster upper extremity movements.
Microstructural evolution of diamond growth during HFCVD

High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) was used to study the nucleation and growth mechanism of diamond by hot filament chemical vapor deposition (HFCVD) process. A novel technique has shown a direct evidence for the formation of the diamond-like carbon layer 8-14 nm thick in which small diamond micro-crystallites were embedded. These diamond micro-crystallites were formed as a result of transformation of diamond-like carbon into diamond. The diamond micro-crystallites present in the amorphous diamond-like carbon layer provided nucleation sites for diamond growth. Large diamond crystallites were observed to grow from these micro-crystallites. The mechanism of diamond growth will be presented based on experimental findings.
A comparative electrophysiological study of enzymatically isolated single cells and strips of frog ventricle.

1. Single heart cells were obtained from frog ventricle using an enzymatic dispersion technique. 2. The whole cell variation of the patch clamp technique was used to monitor action potential and cell membrane currents. The clamp circuit could be switched electronically between voltage and current clamp modes. 3. The effects of seal leakage currents were to depolarize the cell, reduce the amplitude of the plateau, and lengthen the action potential duration. A scheme to compensate for these currents is presented. 4. The membrane currents obtained from the single cell under voltage clamp conditions were compared to those obtained from multicellular preparations using the single sucrose gap technique. 5. Hyperpolarizing clamps showed time-dependent, depletion-related K+ currents for the multicellular preparation, whereas for the single cell no such currents were observed. The absence of extracellular accumulation or depletion of K+ in the single cell was confirmed by the lack of post-clamp afterpotentials or changes in resting potential following a train of frequently elicited action potentials. 6. The TTX-insensitive inward current was relatively faster in the single cell, compared to that measured in the multicellular preparation. 7. A delayed time-dependent outward current was observed in the positive potential range for both single and multicellular preparations. 8. The isochronal current-voltage (I–V) relations obtained at 400 ms were N-shaped for both preparations, but was more, negative for the single cell at potentials positive to −20 mV. 9. The results indicate a strong similarity between membrane currents obtained in single and multicellular preparations. The differences in the currents in the two preparations are due in large part to accumulation or depletion of K+ in the extracellular space
An Alternative to Phosphotyrosine-Containing Motifs for Binding to an SH2 Domain

Shc is an important signalling protein whose overexpression leads to cell transformation in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. Although the formation of Shc/Grb2 complexes involving Shc tyrosine residue 317 is necessary to induce this transformation, the Shc proteins in these Shc-overexpressing cells are not substantially tyrosine-phosphorylated. This observation led to our hypothesis that the non-phosphorylated Tyr317-containing region of Shc might have specific affinity for the Grb2 protein. We show here that cell-permeable peptides encompassing the Shc Tyr317 region, 312FDD-PSYVNVQNL323, can bind to the SH2 domain of Grb2 regardless of the state of tyrosine phosphorylation. When delivered into cells, both phosphorylated and non-phosphorylated Shc peptides inhibit growth factor-induced Shc/Grb2 protein-protein interaction. The non-phosphorylated Shc peptides with single point mutations at Asp313, Asp314, or Tyr317 are inactive, suggesting that these residues play an important role in Grb2 protein recognition. Our findings represent the first paradigm of the specific interaction between an unphosphorylated tyrosine-containing region and an SH2 domain and have important implications for understanding the mechanism of cell transformation by Shc overexpression.
Overview of Health Status Quality-of-Life Measures

The concept of quality of life (QOL) is becoming increasingly important in medicine, particularly in dermatology where many cutaneous diseases have the potential to affect the quality rather than the length of life. There is increasing interest in devising methodology to accurately measure the impact of disease on QOL for use in clinical practice, research studies, and economic analyses. The question of which dermatologic QOL instruments to choose inevitably arises. The aim of this article is to familiarize readers with health status measures and to review their use in dermatology.
How to motivate vendor’s RFID adoption beyond mandate? A retailer’s perspective

Wal-Mart’s mandate of vendors’ RFID adoption has speeded the implementation of RFID, creating an innovative way of managing products and ushering in a new era of supply chain efficiencies. However, Wal-Mart’s action is widely controversial and hits troubles due to vendors’ protests. This research analyses how a retailer firm can stimulate its vendor to adopt this emerging innovation of supply chain management by using an incentive contract rather than a mandate. Such a contract should motivate the vendor to make costly efforts to adopt RFID, truthfully report the information of adoption cost, and execute RFID’s adoption at the retailer’s preferred timing. Established on the framework of the principal–agent theory (In economics, the principal–agent problem refers to the dilemma of how one party (the ‘principal’) could motivate the other party (the ‘agent’) to act in the best interests of one party (the ‘principal’) when both parties have different interests and information) and the real options theory (A r...
Order- N spectral method for electromagnetic waves

We show that the eigenmodes for electromagnetic waves in an inhomogeneous dielectric medium can be obtained with an algorithm that scales linearly with the size of the system. The method employs discretization of the Maxwell equations in both the spatial and the time domain and the integration of the Maxwell equations in the time domain. The spectral intensity can then be obtained by a Fourier transform. We applied the method to a few problems of current interest, including the photonic band structure of a periodic dielectric structure, the effective dielectric constants of some three-dimensional and two-dimensional systems, and the defect states of a periodic dielectric structure with structural defects.
Polarization dependent photocurrent spectroscopy for identification of quantum confined interband transitions in type‐II InAs/GaSb superlattices

We report on the use of polarization sensitive photocurrent spectroscopy for identifying the participating transitions in type-II superlattices based on InAs/GaSb system. Prominent features in measured transverse magnetic and transverse electric photocurrent response on photodetectors have been analyzed to unambiguously predict the correct ordering of hole minibands as heavy and light hole minibands. Measurements carried out on both midwave infrared as well as long wave infrared superlattice detectors reveal the order of the participating valence minibands as: heavy-hole1, light-hole1and light-hole2, with the increasing energy. (© 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The influence of power, distribution norms and task meeting structure on resource allocation in small group negotiation.

Subjects participated in a three‐person negotiation exercise, in which they had to form two‐ or three‐way coalitions to receive resources. The effects of power position (high, medium, low), distribution norms (contribution, need), and task meeting structure (caucus, joint) on the distribution of resources were examined. Most coalition theories assume that the power position of the players calls into play different levels of entitlement which will determine the allocation of resources. There has, however, been little attempt to manipulate entitlement, in the form of distribution norms, separately from power structure. In the research reported here, three‐person groups contained a high, medium, and low power player. The dominant group distribution norm was manipulated as either contribution‐based or need‐based. Task meeting structure was manipulated by beginning each group meeting with either a three‐way meeting between all players (joint) or a series of one‐on‐one meetings (caucus). As predicted, groups that began by caucusing had a higher incidence of two‐way agreements than groups that began with joint meetings. The task meeting structure interacted with power position such that caucusing increased the high power player's outcome, while the joint meeting structure increased the low power player's outcome. In addition, the distribution norm interacted with power position such that the contribution‐based norm increased the outcomes of high power players, while the need‐based norm increased the outcomes of the low power players.
Association between in utero organophosphate pesticide exposure and abnormal reflexes in neonates.

The detrimental effects of organophosphate pesticide (OP) exposure on neurodevelopment have been shown in animals. The present study aimed to assess the relationship between in utero and early postnatal OP exposure and neonatal neurobehavior in humans, as measured by seven clusters (habituation, orientation, motor performance, range of state, regulation of state, autonomic stability, and reflex) on the Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale (BNBAS). We assessed 381 infants 3 days old (n = 184). Among the >3 day old infants, increasing average prenatal urinary metabolite levels were associated with both an increase in number of abnormal reflexes (total DAP: adjusted beta = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.23, 0.82; dimethyls: adjusted beta = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.12, 0.69; diethyls: adjusted beta = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.09, 0.64), and the proportion of infants with more than three abnormal reflexes (total DAP: adjusted OR = 4.9, 95% CI = 1.5, 16.1; dimethyls: adjusted OR = 3.2, 95% CI = 1.1, 9.8; diethyls: adjusted OR = 3.4, 95% CI = 1.2, 9.9). No detrimental associations were found between postnatal urinary metabolite levels and any of the BNBAS clusters for infants 3 days old at assessment. Whether neonatal reflex functioning is predictive of neuropsychological functioning as the child matures will continue to be evaluated in this birth cohort.
Real-Time Error Monitoring for Hybrid Simulation. Part II: Structural Response Modification due to Errors

Hybrid simulation results have been shown to be highly sensitive to measurement and control errors associated with experimental substructures. In particular, systematic control errors due to the response lag of servohydraulic actuators can substantially modify the computed hybrid model response. This paper examines the changes in the hybrid model response resulting from experimental errors and verifies the use of hybrid simulation error monitors (HSEM) presented in a companion paper to predict these changes. The effects of a restoring force time delay on the hybrid model response are first examined by deriving a transfer function for such a system. In addition, numerical simulations of hybrid simulations with induced systematic and random errors are used to study the effects of experimental errors on the linear and nonlinear seismic response of structures. The numerical models with simulated experimental errors are then used to examine the relationship between HSEM and more common performance measures for quantifying the accuracy of the simulations. Based on these numerical studies, appropriate threshold values for HSEM can be determined to detect in real time whether the specified level of unacceptable accuracy has been exceeded in a hybrid simulation.
Charge Density Wave Conduction Of Small Samples

Abstract The charge density wave dynamics of samples with dimension near the Lee-Rice coherence length were studied. In the high frequency and current limits the conductivity of such small samples approaches that of infinite samples. Finite size effects change the response at low frequency and current. A “kink” is introduced in dV/dI like that found experimentally in some NbSe3 samples at low temperatures.
Current dynamo effect of 3‐D time‐dependent reconnection in the dayside magnetopause

The increase of twist helicity by the curl of the Lorentz force in 3-D time-dependent reconnection implies a current dynamo effect, which transfers electromagnetic energy into the magnetosphere. Therefore magnetic reconnection is not only a dissipation process (J·E >0) but also a dynamo process (J·E 0) and dynamo processes ( <0)respectively.
Z-contrast Imaging and EELS of Dislocation Cores at the Si/GaAs Interface

The interface between silicon and epitaxial GaAs thin film grown by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition was studied using atomic-resolution Z-contrast imaging. Z-contrast imaging provides chemical composition information and allows direct interpretation of micrographs. Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) yields correlation between structure and chemistry. Different types of dislocation were identified at the Si/GaAs interface. Atomic structure of non-reconstructed 90° dislocation (exhibiting a dangling bond) is refined by means of computer simulations based on functional density theory. EELS form planar Si/GaAs interface and dislocation cores obtained and analyzed.
Analysis of multicomponent diffusion in pore networks

Diffusion flux models are developed for isobaric diffusion of a multicomponent gas mixture in pore networks of distributed pore size and length constructed by arranging pore segments around the bonds of a lattice of constant coordination number. Eigenvalue-eigevector analysis is used to decompose the dusty-gas model equations, written for each pore segment in the network, into a set of independent single-species diffusion problems, each of which is then treated by combining the effective medium theory for resistor networks with the smooth field approximation (Burganos and Sotirchos, 1987). Results for a ternary mixture diffusing in a porous slab show that direct application of the smooth field approximation underestimates significantly the mass transport resistance.
Regulation of G‐Protein Coupled Receptor Traffic by an Evolutionary Conserved Hydrophobic Signal

Plasma membrane (PM) expression of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) is required for activation by extracellular ligands; however, mechanisms that regulate PM expression of GPCRs are poorly understood. For some GPCRs, such as alpha2c-adrenergic receptors (alpha(2c)-ARs), heterologous expression in non-native cells results in limited PM expression and extensive endoplasmic reticulum (ER) retention. Recently, ER export/retentions signals have been proposed to regulate cellular trafficking of several GPCRs. By utilizing a chimeric alpha(2a)/alpha(2c)-AR strategy, we identified an evolutionary conserved hydrophobic sequence (ALAAALAAAAA) in the extracellular amino terminal region that is responsible in part for alpha(2c)-AR subtype-specific trafficking. To our knowledge, this is the first luminal ER retention signal reported for a GPCR. Removal or disruption of the ER retention signal dramatically increased PM expression and decreased ER retention. Conversely, transplantation of this hydrophobic sequence into alpha(2a)-ARs reduced their PM expression and increased ER retention. This evolutionary conserved hydrophobic trafficking signal within alpha(2c)-ARs serves as a regulator of GPCR trafficking.
Simulation of characteristics of KNbO3/diamond surface acoustic wave

Abstract High-frequency Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) Devices based on diamond that has been realized to date utilize the SiO 2 /ZnO/diamond structure, which shows excellent characteristics of high phase velocity over 10,000 m/s with zero temperature coefficient, and it has been successfully applied to high-frequency narrowband filters and resonators. In this paper, the characteristics of KNbO 3 /diamond with the assumption that the KNbO 3 film is single crystal have been studied by theoretical calculations to find higher coupling coefficient condition. Calculations are made for the phase velocity and electromechanical coupling coefficient of the Rayleigh wave and its higher mode Sezawa waves. As a result, KNbO 3 /Ground/diamond is found to offer extremely high electromechanical coupling coefficient up to 38% in conjunction with high phase velocity of 12,600 m/s. This characteristic is suitable for ultra-wide bandwidth applications in high-frequency SAW devices.
On the isolation of dipicolinic acid from endospores of Sarcina ureae

The isolation of an ultraviolet absorbing material from spores of Sarcina ureae and its identification as dipicolinic acid (DPA) is described. The DPA was present in amounts ranging from 4–7% of the spore dry weight, but was not detected in vegetative cells.
Can a Clinical Score Aid In Early Diagnosis and Treatment of Various Stroke Syndromes

Abstract Background: Accurate and timely diagnosis of hemorrhagic and nonhemorrhagic strokes helps in patient management. Neuroimaging studies are useful in diagnosis and distinction of hemorrhagic (HS) and nonhemorrhagic (NHS) strokes. The use of clinical variables, such as Siriraj stroke scores (SSS), has shown good sensitivity, specificity and predictive values (distinguishing stroke types). The aim of our study was to evaluate the use of SSS in a U.S. population and assess whether it could aid to expedite treatment decisions. Methods: Levels of consciousness, vomiting, headache and atheroma markers used in SSS were applied to patients who met the criteria for stroke. Results: Of the 302 patients identified, the SSS classified 254 with sensitivity of 36% (HS) and 90% (NHS) and positive predictive values of 77% and 61%, respectively. Conclusion: Our results suggest that SSS is not reliable in distinguishing stroke types (in a US population). Definite neuroimaging studies are needed prior to thrombolytic therapy.
257 nm photoinduced chemistry of methyl iodide adsorbed on MgO(100)

The 257 nm photochemistry of CD3I adsorbed on MgO(100) has been investigated. The photofragments ejected along the surface normal were probed using resonantly enhanced multiphoton ionization spectroscopy coupled with time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. Methyl radicals and atomic iodine fragments in both the ground I(2P3/2)≡I and spin–orbit excited I(2P1/2)≡I* states were observed as direct photofragments produced at the surface. Laser‐induced desorption of methyl iodide competes with dissociation at the surface. The total cross section for removal of adsorbed CD3I from the surface at 257 nm is comparable to the gas phase cross section. A significant portion of the atomic iodine fragments remain trapped at the surface with preferential trapping of I*. Additionally, nonresonant I+ and I+2 signals were detected and initially observed to increase as a function of the irradiation time and then decrease with further irradiation. This behavior is shown to be indicative of photoinduced production and photoinduced r...
σ Receptor-active neuroleptics are cytotoxic to C6 glioma cells in culture

Abstract When exposed to neuroleptics (100 μM), C6 glioma cells exhibited marked changes in cell morphology, accompanied by cessation of cell division and ultimately cell death. The degree of activity generally correlated with binding affinity at σ sites: fluphenazine = perphenazine = haloperidol = reduced haloperidol > pimozide = spiperone ⪢ ⪢ (−)-sulpiride. Sigma-inactive compounds (100 μM) which block dopamine, serotonin, phencyclidine, muscarinic receptors and adrenoceptors showed no effect. These results may suggest a role of σ binding sites in maintenance of cell viability.
Adaptive non-linear tracking control of kinematically redundant robot manipulators

Past research efforts have focused on the end-effector tracking control of redundant robots because of their increased dexterity over their non-redundant counterparts. This work utilizes an adaptive full-state feedback quaternion-based controller developed in [2] and focuses on the design of a general sub-task controller. This sub-task controller does not affect the position and orientation tracking control objectives, but instead projects a preference on the configuration of the manipulator based on sub-task objectives such as the following: singularity avoidance, joint limit avoidance, bounding the impact forces, and bounding the potential energy.