cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neonatal pemphigus vulgaris

An infant was born with bullous lesions. The mother had had pemphigus vegetans diagnosed 1 year earlier, with remission during pregnancy. Histopathology and immunofluorescence of the infant's lesions were consistent with pemphigus vulgaris. The mother and infant had low titers of epidermal intercellular antibodies in their sera. The infant's lesions resolved within 2 weeks, and pemphigus antibody titers became negative by 8 weeks.
Simulation of Multi-Dimensional Gaussian Stochastic Fields by Spectral Representation

The subject of this paper is the simulation of multi-dimensional, homogeneous, Gaussian stochastic fields using the spectral representation method. Following this methodology, sample functions of the stochastic field can be generated using a cosine series formula. These sample functions accurately reflect the prescribed probabilistic characteristics of the stochastic field when the number of terms in the cosine series is large. The ensemble-averaged power spectral density or autocorrelation function approaches the corresponding target function as the sample size increases. In addition, the generated sample functions possess ergodic characteristics in the sense that the spatially-averaged mean value, autocorrelation function and power spectral density function are identical with the corresponding targets, when the averaging takes place over the multi-dimensional domain associated with the fundamental period of the cosine series. Another property of the simulated stochastic field is that it is asymptotically Gaussian as the number of terms in the cosine series approaches infinity. The most important feature of the method is that the cosine series formula can be numerically computed very efficiently using the Fast Fourier Transform technique. The main area of application of this method is the Monte Carlo solution of stochastic problems in structural engineering, engineering mechanics and physics. Specifically, the method has been applied to problems involving random loading (random vibration theory) and random material and geometric properties (response variability due to system stochasticity).
Application of model theoretic games to discrete linear orders and finite automata

We apply the method of model theoretic games to theories of linear order. We obtain the known “equivalence” between ω -regular sets and the monadic second-order theory of ( ω , ω , ω -words.
Decomposition of Hydrogen Peroxide at Water−Ceramic Oxide Interfaces

The thermal decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, H2O2, was determined in aqueous suspensions of SiO2, Al2O3, TiO2, CeO2, and ZrO2 nanometer-sized particles. First-order kinetics were observed for the decomposition in all cases. Temperature dependence studies found that the activation energy was 42 ± 5 kJ/mol for the overall decomposition of H2O2 independent of the type of oxide. Oxide type had a strong effect on the preexponential rate term with increasing rate in the order of SiO2 < Al2O3 < TiO2 < CeO2 < ZrO2. The rate coefficient for H2O2 decomposition increases with increasing surface area of the oxide, but the number or efficiency of reactive sites rather than the total surface area may have the dominant role. Very efficient scavengers for OH radicals in the bulk liquid are not able to prevent formation of molecular oxygen, the main H2O2 gaseous decay product, suggesting that decomposition occurs on the oxide surfaces. The decomposition of H2O2 in the γ-radiolysis of water is enhanced by the addition o...
Generalizations of Current Status Data With Applications

In estimation of a survival function, current status data arises when the only information available on individuals is their survival status at a single monitoring time. Here, we briefly review extensions of this form of data structure in two directions: (i) doubly censored current status data, where there is incomplete information on the origin of the failure time random variable, and (ii) current status information on more complicated stochastic processes. Simple examples of these data forms are presented for motivation.
Diverging Moments and Parameter Estimation

Heavy-tailed distributions are enjoying increased popularity and are becoming more readily applicable as the arsenal of analytical and numerical tools grows. They play key roles in modeling approaches in networking, finance, and hydrology, to name but a few areas. The tail parameterα is of central importance, because it governs both the existence of moments of positive order and the thickness of the tails of the distribution. Some of the best-known tail estimators, such as those of Koutrouvelis and Hill, are either parametric or show a lack of robustness or accuracy. This article develops a shift- and scale-invariant nonparametric estimator for both, upper and lower bounds for orders with finite moments. The estimator builds on the equivalence between tail behavior and the regularity of the characteristic function at the origin and achieves its goal by deriving a simplified wavelet analysis that is particularly suited to characteristic functions.
The indirect determination of organic compounds by atomic absorption spectrometry

Abstract The feasibility of determining indirectly certain organic compounds by precipitation of insoluble silver compounds and determining the excess silver(I) by atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) has been demonstrated. The determination of other compounds, such as alkylated barbiturates and mercaptans by similar methodology should be possible. Although direct AAS methods are preferable to indirect methods, the insolubility of many silver salts, the inherent sensitivity of the AAS method for silver, and the speed and convenience of AAS methodology suggests that under certain conditions, an indirect AAS method may be appropriate and the method of choice.
Strong individual signatures and weaker group signatures in contact calls of Spix’s disc-winged bat, Thyroptera tricolor

Spix’s disc-winged bats, Thyroptera tricolor, form small, long-term social groups in which members are loyal to a patch of forest but move on a daily basis between highly ephemeral roosting sites (partly unfurled Heliconia leaves). This species has been shown to exchange social calls that facilitate contact with nearby bats and recruitment to roost sites. During flight, T. tricolor emits ‘inquiry’ calls that frequently elicit a response from individuals that have already entered a furled leaf. These ‘response’ calls are then followed by the flying bat entering the occupied leaf roost. In this study, we examined variation in the structure of inquiry and response calls, and assessed whether calls encode information about individual or group identity that would allow for acoustic discrimination to occur. We found that both inquiry and response calls were sufficiently consistent within individuals, and divergent between individuals, to permit separation of individual bats based on call structure. We also found some evidence for group-specific signatures, although these were less defined than differences observed between individuals. While this does not confirm that Spix’s disc-winged bats can discriminate between individuals and groups based on call information, our results indicate that both call types have a broad enough parameter space for this to occur.
Properties of one-dimensional quasilattices.

We study the properties of one-dimensional quasilattices numerically and analytically. The geometrical properties of general one-dimensional quasilattices are discussed. The Ising model on these lattices is studied by a decimation transformation: The critical temperature and critical exponents do not differ from those for a regular periodic chain. The vibrational spectrum in the harmonic approximation is analyzed numerically. The system exhibits characteristics of both a regular periodic system and a disordered system. In the low-frequency region, the system behaves as a regular periodic system; wave functions appear extended. In the high-frequency region, the spectrum is self-similar and there is no unique behavior for the wave functions. The spectrum shows many gaps and Van Hove singularities. The gaps in the spectrum are also obtained analytically by examining the convergence of a continued-fraction expansion plus decimation transformation. The energy spectrum of a tight-binding electron Hamiltonian on the Fibonacci chain is also analyzed; it shows similar characteristics to those of the lattice vibration spectrum.
Effect of diabetes andinsulin on rat renal glomerular protocollagen hydroxylase activities

The effect of diabetes and insulin on the activities of both prolyl hydroxylase (trivial name; proline,2-oxoglutarate dioxygenase, EC 1.14.11.2) and lysyl hydroxylase (trivial name; lysine,2-oxoglutarate dioxygenase, EC 1.14.11.4) in isolated rat renal glomeruli was determined. Three groups of experimental animals were used: age-matched controls, streptozotocin-diabetic, and insulin-treated streptozotocin-diabetic. Using 14C-labeled lysine or proline hydroxylase substrate prepared from chick embryo tibiae, glomerular 17 000 X g supernatant enzyme was incubated in a complete hydroxylating system for 60 and 120 min Lysyl hydroxylase activity was significantly increased in diabetic preparations, but prolyl hydroxylase activity did not differ from control. Administration of insulin to streptozotocin-injected animals completely restored glomerular lysyl hydroxylase to normal levels. The results suggest that the specific elevation of lysyl hydroxylase relates to the biochemical changes contributory to diabetic nephropathy, and that insulin may reverse this process.
Formal Mentoring Programs: A Mentor-Centric and Longitudinal Analysis

Formal mentoring programs are becoming more popular as organizations attempt to reap the benefits that have long been associated with informal mentoring. The present study adds to the small number of mentor-centric studies and offers a unique longitudinal examination of formal mentoring programs. Findings suggest that as formal mentoring relationships develop over time, mentors begin to use their time more efficiently and the negative effects of cross-gender differences dissipate. Furthermore, whereas mentor reports of psychosocial support and role modeling appear to relate to mentor program satisfaction and protege reports of mentor effectiveness, reports of vocational support appear to have no impact on these variables. Study limitations are discussed, and implications for future research and for practice are suggested.
Toxicological studies of methomyl insecticide with diapause and non-diapause southwestern corn borer larvae

Methomyl insecticide was appreciably more toxic to non-diapause larvae (NDL) than to environmentally induced diapause larvae (EIL) of the southwestern corn borer when applied topically (84.8 times) or by injection (18.5 times). Although differential penetration and/or metabolism probably played a role in methomyl selective toxicity, it seemed likely that other factors also were involved. It was suggested that the increased lipids and proteins in EIL as compared to NDL possibly served to reduce circulating levels of “free” methomyl with concomitant decrease in toxicity. This study has demonstrated that NDL and EIL of the southwestern corn borer differed in their response to a conventional insecticide. ZUSAMMENFASSUNG Toxikologische Studien mit dem Insektizid Methomyl an Diapause- und Nichtdiapauselarven von Diatraea grandiosella Das Insektizid Methomyl war deutlich toxischer fur Nichtdiapauselarven (NDL) als fur Diapauselarven (EIL) von Diatraea grandiosella und zwar bei topicaler Anwendung (84,8x) und bei Injektion (18,5x). Obwohl unterschiedliches Eindringen und Metabolismus eine Rolle spielen konnte fur die selektive Toxizitat, schien es wahrscheinlich, dass auch andere Faktoren beteiligt sind. Es wurde vermutet, dass die in EIL gegenuber NDL vermehrten Lipide und Proteine moglicherweise den Gehalt an “freiem” Methomyl reduzierte, was die Toxizitat abnehmen liess.
17β-Estradiol regulates rat growth plate chondrocyte apoptosis through a mitochondrial pathway not involving nitric oxide or MAPKs.

Estrogens cause growth plate closure in both males and females, by decreasing proliferation and inducing apoptosis of postproliferative growth plate chondrocytes. In vitro studies using 17β-estradiol (E2) conjugated to bovine serum albumin (E2-BSA) show that rat costochondral growth plate resting zone chondrocytes also respond to E2. Moreover, they are regulated by E2-BSA via a protein kinase C and ERK MAPK signaling pathway that is functional only in female cells. To better understand how E2 regulates apoptosis of growth plate chondrocytes, rat resting zone chondrocytes cells were treated with E2 or E2-BSA. E2 caused apoptosis in male and female resting zone and growth zone chondrocytes in a dose-dependent manner, based on elevated DNA fragmentation, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling staining and caspase-3 activation. E2 also up-regulated p53 and Bax protein (Bcl-2-associated X protein) levels and induced release of cytochrome C from the mitochondria, indicating a mitochondrial...
Autoreactive T cells from a type I diabetic recognize multiple class II products.

Abstract Mononuclear cells obtained from a child at the acute presentation of type I diabetes were stimulated in vitro with human insulin followed by IL-2 and IL-4. All of the T-cell clones isolated from this stimulation were autoreactive, recognizing autologous B cells in the absence of insulin or other exogenous antigens. Eleven CD4 + clones were studied in detail to identify the class II MHC antigens stimulating these autoreactive cells. The donor was heterozygous for DR3DQw2 and DR4DQw3.2 haplotypes, a combination of alleles with a greatly increased risk for type I diabetes. The clones demonstrated skewed recognition of class II antigens. Three clones appeared to recognize a peptide derived from one class II β chain (DRβ1, DR4Dw4) presented by another class II β chain (DRβ4, DRw53). Three clones were stimulated by cells expressing DPw4 molecules. Only one clone recognized a product derived from the DR3 haplotype. In contrast to both antigen-specific and autoreactive T-cell clones derived from normal individuals, many of the autoreactive T cells isolated from this subject were stimulated by class II molecules other than DRβ1. The results support the hypothesis that autoreactive T cells recognize autologous peptides in association with MHC and some of these peptides are derived from self MHC molecules.
Effect of floral nectar, water, and feeding frequency on Cotesia glomerata longevity

This study examined how water, sucrose, and frequency of nectar availability affects the longevity of the parasitoid Cotesia glomerata (L.) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae). Under standard laboratory conditions, water did not extend longevity in the absence of sugar in three out of four comparisons, nor did it extend longevity with access to nectar. Cotesia glomerata lived 2–3 days when given water or nothing, 8–15 days when given buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) nectar daily with or without water, and 23–26 days when given a 50% sucrose solution. The lifespan of C. glomerata fed flowers every other day was one-third shorter than that of C. glomerata fed flowers every day, but this difference was not statistically significantly. Only minimal benefits occurred when flowers were given every 3 days.
CD83 expression influences CD4+ T cell development in the thymus.

Abstract T lymphocyte selection and lineage commitment in the thymus requires multiple signals. Herein, CD4 + T cell generation required engagement of CD83, a surface molecule expressed by thymic epithelial and dendritic cells. CD83-deficient (CD83 −/− ) mice had a specific block in CD4 + single-positive thymocyte development without increased CD4 + CD8 + double- or CD8 + single-positive thymocytes. This resulted in a selective 75%–90% reduction in peripheral CD4 + T cells, predominantly within the naive subset. Wild-type thymocytes and bone marrow stem cells failed to differentiate into mature CD4 + T cells when transferred into CD83 −/− mice, while CD83 −/− thymocytes and stem cells developed normally in wild-type mice. Thereby, CD83 expression represents an additional regulatory component for CD4 + T cell development in the thymus.
Lipid methylation, sodium transport and the response to PTH in renal tubules.

Abstract The possible role of progressive methylation of phosphatidylethanolamine to phosphatidylcholine on sodium transport was examined in a suspension of rabbit proximal convoluted tubules. The relation between progressive methylation and the action of parathyroid hormone on sodium transport in this nephron segment was also determined. Incubation of the suspended tubules for 10 minutes at 37°C with 200 uM S-adenosyl-L-[3H]-methyl methionine, a methyl donor, revealed a significant rate of de-novo phosphatidylcholine synthesis. The inactive adenosine analogue, 3-deazaadenosine (DZA), had a significant inhibitory effect on lipid methylation. Despite the inhibition of methylation by DZA, the ouabain sensitive component of oxygen consumption, an index of sodium transport, was not affected. PTH significantly inhibited ouabain sensitive oxygen consumption but had no effect on the methylation of phosphatidylethanolamine. Inhibition of methylation by DZA, did not affect the inhibitory effect of PTH on oxygen consumption. These studies demonstrate that in the proximal convoluted tubule of the rabbit the progressive methylation pathway is present and that inhibition of this pathway does not affect sodium transport. In addition, these studies suggest that the inhibitory effect of PTH on sodium transport is not mediated by the methylation pathway.
High pressure liquid chromatographic analysis of flavonoid chemical markers in petals from Gerbera flowers as an adjunct for cultivar and germplasm identification

Abstract Flavonoids present in petals from Gerbera flowers were resolved and quantitated by high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). The anthocyanins isolated from 18 cultivars, ranging in color from orange through lavender, were pelargonidin and cyanidin 3-malonylglucosides accompanied by smaller amounts of pelargonidin and cyanidin 3-glucosides. Related flavonoid copigments were apigenin and luteolin 4′-glucosides and 7-glucosides, apigenin 7-malonylglucoside, kaempferol and quercetin 3-glucosides, 4′-glucosides and 3-malonylglucosides. Both qualitative and quantitative differences in these flavonoid chemical markers distinguished cultivars with very similar colors. Malonyl esters of anthocyanins are easily degraded by HCl and conventional extraction and purification procedures were adjusted to preserve their natural state.
Tyrosine Phosphorylation of the BRI1 Receptor Kinase Occurs via a Post-Translational Modification and is Activated by the Juxtamembrane Domain.

In metazoans, receptor kinases control many essential processes related to growth and development and response to the environment. The receptor kinases in plants and animals are structurally similar but evolutionarily distinct and thus while most animal receptor kinases are tyrosine kinases the plant receptor kinases are classified as serine/threonine kinases. One of the best studied plant receptor kinases is BRASSINOSTEROID INSENSITIVE 1 (BRI1), which functions in brassinosteroid (BR) signaling. Consistent with its classification, BRI1 was shown in early studies to autophosphorylate in vitro exclusively on serine and threonine residues and subsequently numerous specific phosphoserine and phosphothreonine sites were identified. However, several sites of tyrosine autophosphorylation have recently been identified establishing that BRI1 is a dual-specificity kinase. This raises the paradox that BRI1 contains phosphotyrosine but was only observed to autophosphorylate on serine and threonine sites. In the present study, we demonstrate that autophosphorylation on threonine and tyrosine (and presumably serine) residues is a post-translational modification, ruling out a co-translational mechanism that could explain the paradox. Moreover, we show that in general, autophosphorylation of the recombinant protein appears to be hierarchal and proceeds in the order: phosphoserine > phosphothreonine > phosphotyrosine. This may explain why tyrosine autophosphorylation was not observed in some studies. Finally, we also show that the juxtamembrane domain of BRI1 is an activator of the kinase domain, and that kinase specificity (serine/threonine versus tyrosine) can be affected by residues outside of the kinase domain. This may have implications for identification of signature motifs that distinguish serine/threonine kinases from dual-specificity kinases.
Joint-specific distance thresholds for patient-specific approximations of articular cartilage modeling in the first ray of the foot

The addition of cartilage elements in a finite element model prevents bone-on-bone articulation during simulation, thus providing more accurate information about joint kinematics. We present a semi-automated method for identifying joint articulation surfaces and creating volumetric articular cartilage elements based on patient-specific bone information. The approach identifies contact surfaces based on a joint-specific, user-specified distance threshold criterion applied to a polygonized set of bones. Volumetric cartilage elements are generated using half of the minimum inter-joint distance. We present the method and then apply it to the first ray of the human foot, which includes the medial cuneiform, first metatarsal, and first proximal and distal phalanges. Distance thresholds for the first ray ranged from 3.0 to 4.25 mm depending on the joint and the desired contact surface coverage. Inter-joint distances were found and applied to the contact surfaces to generate uniformly thick cartilage models. Average inter-joint distances of 0.46, 0.72 and 0.51 mm were found for the first interphalangeal, metatarsophalangeal, and cuneometatarsal joints, respectively. The values cited are one half of the minimum inter-joint difference, as identified by the proximity algorithm. This is taken to represent the (uniform) cartilage thickness at each joint.
Human Rights and Sociology: Some Observations from Africa

L'A., examinant la relation entre la sociologie et les discours sur les droits de l'homme, reprend le debat sur les droits de l'homme dans la perspective d'un Africain de formation sociologique. Il souligne la perspective africaine sur les droits de l'homme, et la relie au role que la sociologie a joue pour donner forme au debat entre erudits occidentaux et non-occidentaux.
The Evaluation of Litter Behavior Modification in a River Environment

Abstract Behavioral modification techniques were evaluated by observing litter collection behavior of commercial rafting groups. A verbal appeal and role modeling comprised a treatment intended to prompt litter pickup. Designated pieces of trash were planted at the first night's campsite. The number of litter pieces retrieved by treatment and control groups was deemed statistically significant at the .10 alpha level. Treatment groups left campsites cleaner; therefore, results support the hypothesis that verbal appeal and role modeling by river guides can be effective litter control techniques.
Efferent control of the electrical and mechanical properties of hair cells in the bullfrog's sacculus.

Background Hair cells in the auditory, vestibular, and lateral-line systems respond to mechanical stimulation and transmit information to afferent nerve fibers. The sensitivity of mechanoelectrical transduction is modulated by the efferent pathway, whose activity usually reduces the responsiveness of hair cells. The basis of this effect remains unknown. Methodology and Principal Findings We employed immunocytological, electrophysiological, and micromechanical approaches to characterize the anatomy of efferent innervation and the effect of efferent activity on the electrical and mechanical properties of hair cells in the bullfrog's sacculus. We found that efferent fibers form extensive synaptic terminals on all macular and extramacular hair cells. Macular hair cells expressing the Ca2+-buffering protein calretinin contain half as many synaptic ribbons and are innervated by twice as many efferent terminals as calretinin-negative hair cells. Efferent activity elicits inhibitory postsynaptic potentials in hair cells and thus inhibits their electrical resonance. In hair cells that exhibit spiking activity, efferent stimulation suppresses the generation of action potentials. Finally, efferent activity triggers a displacement of the hair bundle's resting position. Conclusions and Significance The hair cells of the bullfrog's sacculus receive a rich efferent innervation with the heaviest projection to calretinin-containing cells. Stimulation of efferent axons desensitizes the hair cells and suppresses their spiking activity. Although efferent activation influences mechanoelectrical transduction, the mechanical effects on hair bundles are inconsistent.
Super-resolution electrohydrodynamic (EHD) 3D printing of micro-structures using phase-change inks

Abstract This paper presents a super-resolution 3D printing process using electrohydrodynamic (EHD) printing technology for the direct fabrication of micro-scale structures with phase-change inks (i.e. wax). In this work, we successfully apply EHD printing process for phase-change ink (wax), which is widely used modeling and supporting material for additive manufacturing and 3D printing, to achieve micro-scale droplet dimension. Moreover, a Finite Element Analysis (FEA) model is developed to predict the droplet formation and droplet size of the EHD printing at different printing voltage. The EHD printing process is capable of producing high aspect-of-ratio 3D structures with sub-10 μm feature resolution.
Factors Associated with Participation in Employment for High School Leavers with Autism

This study aimed to identify the factors associated with participation in employment for high school leavers with autism. A secondary data analysis of the National Longitudinal Transition Study 2 (NLTS2) data was performed. Potential factors were assessed using a weighted multivariate logistic regression. This study found that annual household income, parental education, gender, social skills, whether the child had intellectual disability, whether the child graduated from high school, whether the child received career counseling during high school, and whether the child’s school contacted postsecondary vocational training programs or potential employers were the significant factors associated with participation in employment. These findings may have implications for professionals who provide transition services and post-secondary programs for individuals with autism.
Hibernation-like state induced by an opioid peptide protects against experimental stroke.

Background: Delta opioid peptide [D-ala2,D-leU5]enkephalin (DADLE) induces hibernation in summer ground squirrels, and enhances preservation and survival of isolated or transplanted lungs and hearts. In the present study, we investigated the protective effect of DADLE in the central nervous system. Results: Adult Sprague-Dawley rats were pretreated with DADLE (4 mg/kg every 2 h × 4 injections, i.p.) or saline prior to unilateral occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCA). Daily behavioral tests revealed that ischemic animals treated with DADLE did not show any significant behavioral dysfunctions compared with saline-treated ischemic animals. Opioid antagonists only transiently inhibited the protective effect of DADLE, indicating the participation of non-opioid mechanisms in DADLE neuroprotection. Histological examination using triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) revealed that brains from ischemic animals treated with DADLE, either alone or with adjuvant opioid blockers, exhibited almost completely intact striata. In contrast, brains from ischemic animals that received saline showed significant infarction in the lateral striatum. Analyses of apoptotic cell death revealed a significant increase in the p-53 mRNA expression in the striatum of ischemic animals that received saline, while those that received DADLE exhibited near normal striatal p-53 expression. This protective effect was accompanied by significant increments in protein levels of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor in the striatum of DADLE-treated ischemic animals. Conclusion: These results indicate that DADLE protected against necrotic and apoptotic cell death processes associated with ischemia-reperfusion injury. The present study demonstrates that delta opioids are crucially involved in stroke, suggesting that the opioid system is important in the study of brain injury and protection.
DPP-4 inhibitors and atherosclerosis: the promise.

0021-9150/$ e see front matter 2013 Elsevier Irela http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2012.12.033 The major cause of mortality and morbidity in diabetes is cardiovascular disease (CVD). Novel therapies that have now been introduced for the treatment of diabetes includingmodulation of the Incretin axis with either glucagon like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists or dipeptidyl-peptidase-IV (DPP-4) inhibitors. By inhibiting DPP-4 (CD26) these oral drugs increase plasma GLP-1 and glucosedependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) [1].Whilst both theGLP1R agonists and DPP-4 inhibitors have been a welcome advance in the management of the hyperglycemia of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), recent data suggests that they have pleiotropic effects beyond reducing glucose levels that might be beneficial to the cardiovascular system. GLP-1Rs are expressed on cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells and macrophages [2]. Pre-clinical studies demonstrate GLP-1R activation is associated with substantial reduction in infarct size in experimental models of coronary artery ischemia [1e4]. Recently, it has been shown that DPP-4 inhibitors increase myocardial cyclic AMP and protein kinase A (PKA) activity in db/db mice in associationwith a reduction inmyocardial infarct size. These effects are additive with cilostazol, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, that increases myocardial cAMP [5]. Furthermore, limited data suggests that GLP-1R may also preserve ventricular function and
Assessment of the pharmacogenomics educational needs of pharmacists.

Objectives. To evaluate the self-perceived knowledge and confidence of inpatient and outpatient pharmacists in applying pharmacogenomics information to clinical practice.Methods. A 19-question multiple-choice, electronic needs-assessment survey instrument was distributed to 480 inpatient and outpatient pharmacists in a large, academic, multi-campus healthcare system.Results. The survey response rate was 64% (303). Most respondents (85%) agreed that pharmacists should be required to be knowledgeable about pharmacogenomics, and 65% agreed that pharmacists should be capable of providing information on the appropriate use of pharmacogenomics testing. Sixty-three percent felt they could not accurately apply the results of pharmacogenomics tests to drug-therapy selection, dosing, or monitoring.Conclusion. Pharmacists believe pharmacogenomics knowledge is important to the profession, but they lack the knowledge and self-confidence to act on the results of pharmacogenomics testing and may benefit from pharmacogen...
Structural elucidation of the specific capsular polysaccharide of Rhodococcus equi serotype 7

Structural analysis of the specific capsular polysaccharide produced by Rhodococcus equi serotype 7 indicated it to be a high-molecular-weight polymer consisting of equal molar amounts of D-galactose, D-mannose, L-rhamnose, and pyruvic acid. By employing a combination of chemical and NMR techniques, it was established that the polysaccharide is composed of the linear repeating trisaccharide units: [formula: see text] -->3)-alpha-D-Galp-(1-->3)-alpha-D-Manp-(1-->3)-alpha-L-Rhap -(1-->, in which the cyclic pyruvic acid acetal groups bridging the O-4 and O-6 positions of the alpha-D-Manp residues have the S-configuration. The 1H and 13C NMR spectra of the native and pyruvic acetal-free polysaccharides were fully assigned.
Physical attractiveness, self-awareness, and mirror-gazing behavior

In a field study, 86 students (37 males and 49 females) were observed as they walked past a section of reflecting glass that served as a mirror. The amount of time spent by each subject in gazing at his or her own image was recorded. The physical attractiveness of each participant was rated by experimental observers, and subjects filled out a questionnaire that assessed the degree to which they ordinarily engage in self-focused behavior. For both males and females, time spent in mirror gazing was positively correlated with physical attractiveness. Mirror gazing and self-focusing were unrelated, although self-focusing was positively correlated with attractiveness.
Prephenate aminotransferase directs plant phenylalanine biosynthesis via arogenate

The aromatic amino acids L-phenylalanine and L-tyrosine and their plant-derived natural products are essential in human and plant metabolism and physiology. Here we identified Petunia hybrida and Arabidopsis thaliana genes encoding prephenate aminotransferases (PPA-ATs), thus completing the identification of the genes involved in phenylalanine and tyrosine biosyntheses. Biochemical and genetic characterization of enzymes showed that PPA-AT directs carbon flux from prephenate toward arogenate, making the arogenate pathway predominant in plant phenylalanine biosynthesis.
249 CHLORAMPHENICOL KINETICS IN INFANTS AND CHILDREN

We studied the disposition of chloramphenicol after intravenous administration to 56 infants and children aged one day to 11 years at doses ranging from 12.5 to 100 mg/Kg/day. The mean T 1/2 was 5.94 hrs (range 0.87 - 17.8 hrs); neonates had a longer T 1/2, 8.01 hrs, but not statistically different from non neonates, 5.54 hrs (p = 0.12). The T 1/2 of patients who weighed 10 kg (9.02 vs 4.55 hrs; p < 0.001). In 17 patients the pharmacologic peak concentration (Co) standardized for dose linearly correlated with dosage based on body surface area (r = 0.61) or body weight (r = 0.60). The Co values, however, were highly variable; serum concentrations ranged from 0.39 to 2.43 μg/ml per mg per kg administered (m = 0.97 μg/ml). Eight patients had T 1/2 values which approached infinity; in all eight the concentration of total serum chloramphenicol compounds was greater than biologically active drug during the 8 hour observation period. Four of these 8 patients were hypotensive at the time of the study, but none had laboratory evidence of renal or hepatic failure. One-half of these 8 patients on re-study after clinical improvement had T 1/2 between 4.02 and 20.8 hrs. We conclude that there is a marked individual variation in chloramphenicol pharmacokinetics which is, in part, explicable by delayed hydrolysis of the succinate ester and decreased excretion.
Recovery time as a measure of CER strength: effects of benzodiazepines, amobarbital, chlorpromazine and amphetamine.

A procedure was presented that used recovery time (the time the rat requires to resume drinking after the CS presentation) as a measure of CER strength. This measure varied directly with two of the more important conditioning variables: US (shock) intensity and number of training trials. Since the CS is imposed upon ongoing drinking behavior recovery time is also affected by thirst motivation.
Electrodynamics of meteor trail evolution in the equatorial E‐region ionosphere

Using analytical models and kinetic simulations, this paper shows that weakly ionized meteor trails near the geomagnetic equator evolve through three distinct stages. First, a large electric field is generated perpendicular to both the geomagnetic field and the trail. Second, plasma density waves grow asymmetrically across the trail. Third, turbulence develops in the trails. Throughout this process, the electron E × B-drift velocity plays an essential role in controlling the motion of the trail. These plasma dynamics have important implications for the interpretation of meteor radar echoes.
Characterization of coplanar grid CZT detectors with highly collimated x-ray beam

CdZnTe detectors demonstrated great potentials for detection of gamma radiation. However, energy resolution of CdZnTe detectors is significantly affected by uncollected holes which have low mobility and short lifetime. To overcome this deleterious effects upon energy resolution special detector designs have to be implemented. The most practical of them are the small pixel effect device, the co-planar grid device, and the virtual Frisch-grid device. We routinely use a highly collimated high-intensity X-ray beams provided by National Synchrotron Light Source (NSLS) facility at Brookhaven National Laboratory to study of CdZnTe material and performances of the different types of devices on the micron-scale. This powerful tool allows us to evaluate electronic properties of the material, device performance, uniformity of the detector responses, effects related to the device's contact pattern and electric field distribution, etc. In particular, in this paper we present new results obtained from the performance studies of 15 x 15 x 7.5 mm 3 coplanar-grid devices coupled to readout ASIC. We observed the effect of the strip contacts comprising the grids on the energy resolution of the coplanar-grid device.
Effects on aqueous barium titanate tape properties of passivation of barium ion leaching by using dispersants

Abstract To passivate a barium titanate (BaTiO3) ceramic powder surface from Ba2+ ion leaching in water, passivation agent layer (PAL) was formed by drying the slurry after adding a commercial polymeric dispersant. By following the several characteristic steps of actual MLCC production process, slip and green properties were compared for two different polymer-adding modes; one is the PAL and the other is the conventional dispersant mode. Compared to the conventional dispersant adding method, PAL mode was the only effective way in reducing the amount of Ba2+ leaching. However, slip viscosity and green body properties were not a function of adding mode but a function of dispersant itself, which means using PAL did not deteriorate any of slip and green properties of BaTiO3.
Proton spin-spin and spin-lattice relaxation in CaSO4 · xH2O below 1 K

Abstract Proton NMR has been studied between 0.01 and 1 K in various hydrates of CaSO 4 as part of a program to investigate spin-lattice relaxation mechanisms at low temperatures. All T 1 values were found to be independent of temperature, consistent with the dominance of surface relaxation through interaction with 3 He spins in the heat transfer bath. The recovery of the signal after inversion and after hole burning show different time scales for approach to internal Zeeman equilibrium and for relaxation of Zeeman energy to the lattice.
Autocorrelation Functions as Translation Invariants in L1 and L2

The Adler-Konheim theorem [Proc. Amer. Math. Soc. 13 (1962), 425-428] states that the collection of nth-order autocorrelation functions \({\cal M} = \{M^n(\cdot): n=1,2,\dots\}\) is a complete set of translation invariants for real-valued L1 functions on a locally compact abelian group. It is shown here that there are proper subsets of \({\cal M}\) that also form a complete set of translation invariants, and these subsets are characterized. Specifically, a subset is complete if and only if it contains infinitely many even-order autocorrelation functions. In addition, any infinite subset of \(\cal M\) is complete up to a sign. While stated here for functions on \(\cal R,\) the proofs presented hold for functions on any locally compact abelian group that is not compact, in particular, on \({\cal R}^n\) and the integer lattice \({\cal Z}^n.\)
Group inverses of certain positive operators

Abstract Positive operators on certain polyhedral cones with the property that the group inverse of the operator is equal to some power of the operator are characterized. The special case of the Moore-Penrose inverse is also considered.
Long-run carbon emission implications of energy-intensive infrastructure investments with a retrofit option

Abstract Investments in long-lived, fossil-fuel intensive infrastructure can have large effects on carbon emissions over a long future period. We simulate a 2-period model of infrastructure investment with subsequent retrofit to purge its carbon emissions, under uncertainty about climate and retrofit costs. The energy intensity chosen upon investment depends on current and expected future energy and environmental costs, and on future retrofit cost. Simulations of a simplified but realistic model indicate that energy consumption and carbon emissions can be highly excessive when future energy and climate costs are not considered at the time infrastructure investments are made, and charged at globally suboptimal rates when operated; often by more than 50% when energy costs are undervalued at this rate both ex ante and ex post. Good anticipated retrofit options reduce ex post energy costs, but lead to ex ante choice of more energy-intensive infrastructure, which could more than fully offset the energy-reducing effect of the retrofit. These results are of particular importance for emerging economies with large current and anticipated energy-related investments, where long-term climate policy goals may be seriously jeopardized by policy makers facing too low energy prices, now and in the future.
The metropolis revisited

Abstract The 20th century is the century of the metropolitan revolution. In North America, the majority of people live in metropolitan areas, and the Northern metropolis is the centre of global economic and political power. Inequalities between and within metropolises are at the heart of the ‘urban question’. Despite attempts to stop metropolitan growth and warnings of the demise of big cities due to new technologies, the metropolis appears to be a relatively durable form of human settlement because of its economic and social complexity. Urban growth following the model of the North American metropolis, with its sharp central city-suburban imbalance, and automobile-centred, sprawled growth, is becoming more prevalent around the world. Thus, the socioeconomic inequalities and environmental problems associated with this model may well accompany global metropolitan growth in the 21st century. In the 21st century, planners will need to develop strategies for metropolitan growth and preservation that maximize the potential, inherent in this new settlement form, for energy efficiency and social equality.
Trends in papers presented at meetings of the Society for Pediatric Radiology.

The abstracts of papers presented at the 1959–1994 meetings of the Society for Pediatric Radiology were reviewed and tabulated for organ system and imaging modality chiefly discussed and for number of authors per paper. Among organ systems, the musculoskeletal system and extremities were favored at first, then relatively ignored, then favored again. Interest in the central nervous system and head has been at a high level for the last decade. In modalities, plain radiography and fluoroscopy were dominant for more than 20 years but have now fallen to a much lower level of interest. Ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, and computed tomography have passed all the older techniques and, collectively, have accounted for a large majority of the presentations for the last decade. Changes have been much greater in imaging techniques employed than in organ systems discussed. The number of authors per paper presented grew from 1.0 in 1959 to 1.7 for the 1960–1964 period to 4.1 for the 1990–1994 period.
Review of parameters characterising response of normal connective tissue to radiation

A comparison is made of the formalisms which have been proposed to characterise the response of normal connective tissue to levels of radiation which may lead to end points other than tissue tolerance; namely, Partial Tolerance, Time-Dose-Fractionation factor, and the Cumulative Radiation Effect. It is shown that, in most situations, conclusions which may be drawn using any one formalism are essentially the same as those which follow from the use of any other.
Neuroprotective Effects of Cognitive Enhancement Therapy Against Gray Matter Loss in Early Schizophrenia: Results From a 2-year Randomized Controlled Trial

Context Cognitive rehabilitation has shown efficacy in improving cognition in patients with schizophrenia but the underlying neurobiologic changes that occur during these treatments and support cognitive improvement are not well known. Objective To examine differential changes in brain morphology in early course schizophrenia during cognitive rehabilitation vs supportive therapy. Design Randomized controlled trial. Setting An outpatient research clinic at a university-based medical center that provides comprehensive care services for patients with severe mental illness. Patients A total of 53 symptomatically stable but cognitively disabled outpatients in the early course of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. Interventions A 2-year trial with annual structural magnetic resonance imaging and cognitive assessments. Cognitive enhancement therapy is an integrated approach to the remediation of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia that uses computer-assisted neurocognitive training and group-based social-cognitive exercises. Enriched supportive therapy is an illness management approach that provides psychoeducation and teaches applied coping strategies. Main Outcome Measures Broad areas of frontal and temporal gray matter change were analyzed with longitudinal, voxel-based morphometry methods using mixed-effects models followed by volumetric analyses of regions that demonstrated significant differential changes between treatment groups. Results Patients who received cognitive enhancement therapy demonstrated significantly greater preservation of gray matter volume over 2 years in the left hippocampus, parahippocampal gyrus, and fusiform gyrus, and significantly greater gray matter increases in the left amygdala (all corrected P Conclusion Cognitive enhancement therapy may offer neurobiologic protective and enhancing effects in early schizophrenia that are associated with improved long-term cognitive outcomes. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier:NCT00167362 Published online May 3, 2010 (doi:10.1001/archgenpsychiatry.2010.63).