cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
NF-κB Activation Stimulates Transcription and Replication of Retrovirus XMRV in Human B-Lineage and Prostate Carcinoma Cells

Xenotropic murine leukemia virus-related virus (XMRV) is a gammaretrovirus linked to prostate carcinoma and chronic fatigue syndrome. Here we report that NF-κB activation can markedly increase XMRV production. The inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), which activates NF-κB, significantly augmented viral Gag protein production in XMRV-infected cells. Reporter assays showed that TNF-α and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1), an intrinsic NF-κB activator, increased long terminal repeat (LTR)-dependent XMRV transcription. We identified two NF-κB binding sites (designated κB-1 and κB-2) in the LTR U3 region of XMRV and demonstrated that both sites bind to the NF-κB component p65/RelA. Mutation of the κB-1 site, but not the κB-2 site, impaired responsiveness to TNF-α and LMP1 in reporter assays. A mutant XMRV with a mutation at the κB-1 site replicated significantly less efficiently than the wild-type XMRV in the prostate carcinoma LNCaP, DU145, and PC-3 cell lines, HEK293 cells, the EBV-immortalized cell line IB4, and the Burkitt's lymphoma cell line BJAB. These results demonstrate that TNF-α and EBV LMP1 enhance XMRV replication in prostate carcinoma and B-lineage cells through the κB-1 site in the XMRV LTR, suggesting that inflammation, EBV infection, and other conditions leading to NF-κB activation may promote XMRV spread in humans.
Bright Angel and Eminence Faults, Eastern Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Bright Angel and Eminence faults trend northeastward for approximately 60 mi (100 km) through the eastern Grand Canyon region. The Bright Angel fault parallels basement foliation. Activity along the fault dates from Precambrian time. The first record of movement indicates that it was reverse; it coincided with the deposition of the basal Shinumo Quartzite. Additional reverse movement occurred following intrusion of the Unkar Group by diabase sills and dikes resulting in a total of as much as 1,300 ft (400 m) of displacement, east side up. The Precambrian Chuar Group was later broken by a series of northwest-trending normal faults that tilted the section toward the northeast, causing minor adjustments along the Bright Angel fault. Possible reverse movement along the Bright Angel fault is recorded in a local angular unconformity between the Paleozoic Redwall and Supai Formations. East-dipping Laramide (?) monoclines developed as reverse movement occurred along selected preexisting northwest-trending Precambrian faults. Tensional faulting beginning in Miocene (?) or Pliocene (?) time caused downfaulting, east side down, along the Bright Angel fault. The Eminence fault, west side down, is part of a graben complex.
Selective attention and dimensional learning: A logical analysis of two-stage attention theories

The argument of the present paper is that attention theories (e.g., Sutherland & Mackintosh, 1972) make logically independent assumptions of selective attention and dimensional learning. The separability of these assumptions is illustrated by a model that assumes dimensional learning but no selective attention. The model successfully predicts the results of discriminative shift studies (e.g. ID vs ED shift comparisons) and supports the conclusion that a selective attention mechanism is not necessary to explain the results of such studies.
Application of N-carboxyalkyl peptides to the inhibition and affinity purification of the porcine matrix metalloproteinases collagenase, gelatinase, and stromelysin

Several N-carboxyalkyl peptides were synthesized and tested as inhibitors of pig synovial collagenase, 72-kDa gelatinase and stromelysin (matrix metalloproteinases MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-3). The most potent of the series, CH3CH2CH2(R,S)CH(COOH)-NH-Leu-Phe-Ala-NH2, competitively inhibited cleavage of dinitrophenyl-Pro-Leu-Gly-Leu-Trp-Ala-D-Arg-NH2 at the Gly-Leu bond by MMP-1 and MMP-2 (KI = 30 and 40 microM, respectively). A similar inhibitory potency was found for MMP-1 with soluble Type I collagen and MMP-3 with substance P as substrate. The inhibitor was coupled to EAH-Sepharose 4B through a C-terminal amide. In the presence of 2 M NaCl at pH 7.2, this matrix bound MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-3 from concentrated culture medium of pig synovial membranes. The enzymes coeluted at pH 4.1 and subsequently were resolved by chromatography on DEAE-Sephacel and heparin-Sepharose. Purified MMP-1 catalyzed the o-phenanthroline-sensitive cleavage of collagen into TCA and TCB fragments as well as slower hydrolysis of the alpha 2 chain. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis of MMP-1 indicated a predominant polypeptide of approximately 44 kDa and minor species of approximately 24 and 21 kDa. The 44-kDa species and one of the smaller polypeptides reacted with an antiserum to residues 195-207 of human fibroblast MMP-1, indicating that porcine MMP-1 contains a similar sequence and that the smaller components were probably derived from MMP-1. Neither MMP-2 nor MMP-3 reacted with this antiserum. Purified porcine MMP-2 degraded gelatin but not collagen and exhibited an apparent Mr of approximately 71 kDa. Additional smaller polypeptides were present, one of which may correspond to tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases. MMP-3 showed doublets of approximately 47/46 and 26/25 kDa and cleaved substance P at the Gly6-Phe7 bond. This procedure provides a rapid means of obtaining all three MMPs from one source in approximately 15% yield each.
Effects of Chronic Intermittent Hypoxia on Cardiac Rhythm Transcriptomic Networks

This chapter completes a series of four studies analyzing in a mouse model the genomic consequences of chronic obstructive sleep apnea during development from neonatal to puberty. Groups of two male and two female 1-day-old sibling mice each were subjected for 1, 2, or 4 weeks to normal atmospheric conditions or to chronic intermittent hypoxia, and the transcriptomes of their hearts profiled and compared. Our previous papers reported alterations of individual genes, gene ontology categories, translation regulators and responses to stress, and analyzed and quantified the topological changes of the heart rhythm determinant (HRD) genomic fabric, including the ranking of the HRD genes. HRD fabric was defined as the most stably expressed and interconnected gene web that might be responsible for the generation, maintenance, and modulation of the heart rhythm in each condition. Here, we introduce the new analysis of the network landscape to determine the ways by which Ca2+ and Wnt signaling pathways, translation initiation, and elongation factors, and SOX (i.e., sex-determining region Y-box) genes control the HRD fabric. We also analyze the changes in the networks by which connexin 43, the main protein that couples the cardiomyocytes by forming intercellular gap junction channels, modulates the HRD fabric during development under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Remarkably, the amplitude of the transcriptomic alterations diminished from 1 to 4 weeks of hypoxia, indicating activation of certain acclimatization or accommodation mechanisms. In addition to regulation of expression level, our analyses revealed changes in the stability control and interlinking of functional gene networks as well as switch of dominant gene pairs. Thus, we found that Hif1a-Jup, Lmna-Pcdh7, and Eef1a2-Gnao1 are the most important pairs at 1, 2, and 4 weeks normoxia, respectively, while Jup-Slc25a20, Cdh16-Vezt, and Eif2ak4-Pcdh12 are the controlling pairs at 1, 2, and 4 weeks hypoxia, respectively. The analysis has shown that changes in expression control and coordination had substantial contributions to the overall transcriptomic differences. Moreover, with respect to magnitude, hypoxia transcriptomic effects are comparable to those associated to development. Altogether, these results indicate the profound remodeling of the HRD fabric and regulatory pathways in response to intermittent oxygen deprivation that may explain the cardiac arrhythmias experienced by teenagers suffering by chronic obstructive sleep apnea.
Inverse deuterium isotope effect in the intersystem crossing of diphenylcarbene

Abstract The singlet-to-triplet intersystem crossing rate ( k st ) of diphenylcarbene (DPC) is found to exhibit an inverse isotope effect in various solvents. An off-resonance coupling model between the initial singlet state and a sparse triplet vibronic manifold accounts for k ST showing both an inverse isotope effect in a given solvent as well as an inverse energy gap effect in a solvent series.
Role of performance functionals in control laws design

The research in optimal control has been concentrated on design of control laws in order to optimize the dynamic performance of systems. These optimization problems were explicitly formulated and solved using the Hamilton-Jacobi theory and Lyapunov concept. To solve the control design problems, the system models in form of differential equations, performance functionals, optimality criteria, conditions on the Lyapunov pair, and other criteria were used. The importance of synthesis of performance functionals lays on the matter that the controllers are predefined, by the functionals used. It must be emphasized that for dynamic systems, modeled using differential or difference equations; the closed-loop system performance is optimal and stability margins (robustness) are assigned in the specific sense as implied by the performance functionals and optimization/design concepts. The innovative performance integrands, which allow one to measure the system performance as well as to design bounded (admissible) robust control laws, received much attention in recent years. In particular, novel nonquadratic and generalized functionals were introduced for continuous- and discrete-time systems. However, the system optimality depends to a large extent on the specifications imposed and the inherent system capabilities. This paper overcomes the current limitations in the synthesis of performance functionals, and a new class of robust control laws is designed. The results documented significantly complement modern control theory.
Wireless communications and coexistence for smart environments

Technology is emerging that will support the pervasive deployment of small intelligent devices that serve their owner and communicate using wireless transmissions. Collectively, these devices would provide a smart environment. Before this vision can become a reality, significant challenges must be overcome in the design of access protocols, and in spectrum management policies. Some devices in a smart environment must be able to communicate, and all devices in a smart environment must be able to coexist without excessive mutual interference. This article discusses various methods of achieving these goals, and the fundamental trade-offs involved. Some of the alternative methods include the allocation of unlicensed spectrum for this purpose, establishment of an etiquette that constrains access protocol designs, adoption of a full standard for access protocols, and the creation of a spectrum band manager.
Increased suppression of exercise-induced increase in renin by propranolol in Chinese subjects.

Sensitivity to the hypotensive effect of propranolol differs between Chinese subjects and white subjects. To explore the pharmacodynamic explanation for this difference, eight Chinese subjects (age range, 25 to 42 years) and eight white subjects (age range, 22 to 36 years) were given single doses of 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg propranolol on separate occasions at least 3 days apart. Heart rate, mean blood pressure, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and plasma renin activity were measured at the end of treadmill exercise 2 hours after medication was administered. Propranolol produced a concentration-dependent reduction in mean blood pressure and heart rate in both groups. Concentration-response curves were shifted significantly to the left in Chinese subjects, confirming the increased sensitivity to propranolol of the Chinese. The baseline exercise plasma renin activity was twofold higher (p < 0.05) in Chinese than in white subjects. The sensitivity to β-blockade—induced suppression of plasma renin activity was increased in the Chinese, which resulted in a sevenfold higher concentration being required in white subjects than in Chinese to produce the same 50% suppression of exercise plasma renin activity (84.8 ± 23.2 versus 12.7 ± 7.4 ng/ml, p < 0.05). The reduction in exercise heart rate and mean blood pressure produced by propranolol were well correlated to the reduction in exercise plasma renin activity in both populations. There was no significant effect of either race or propranolol on plasma catecholamine concentration after exercise. The findings indicate that the previously demonstrated higher sensitivity to β-blockade produced by propranolol also extends to the β -receptor—mediated effect on renin activity and this increased sensitivity to plasma renin activity suppression in Chinese subjects may partially explain their increased sensitivity to the hypotensive effects of propranolol. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1991) 50, 150–156; doi:10.1038/clpt.1991.119
The Southern Region: A Test of the Hypothesis of Cultural Distinctiveness

Analysts use a variety of indicators to assess whether the South remains a distinctive cultural region, and reach different conclusions. This analysis examined the distinctiveness of the South by c...
OSTEOLOGY AND PHYLOGENETIC SIGNIFICANCE OF EOSUCHUS MINOR (MARSH, 1870) NEW COMBINATION, A LONGIROSTRINE CROCODYLIAN FROM THE LATE PALEOCENE OF NORTH AMERICA

Eosuchus minor (Marsh, 1870) is based on skeletal fragments from the Late Paleocene or Early Eocene of New Jersey, but more complete material from the Late Paleocene of New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia permits a detailed description and systematic assessment. It is a slender-snouted form and can be distinguished from most other crocodylians on the basis of an enlarged quadrate foramen aereum; a distinct W-shaped rugosity along the ventral margin of the basioccipital tuber; a prominent crest on the lateral braincase wall encompassing portions of the quadrate, pterygoid, and basisphenoid, forming the lateral wall of the lateral eustachian canal at its ventralmost extent; and arrangement of dentary alveoli into couplets. Specimens of larger crocodylians from the same units may represent either the adult form of E. minor or a separate taxon. The enlarged quadrate foramen aereum, couplet arrangement of dentary alveoli, and basioccipital tuber shape are shared with Eosuchus lerichei from the Late Paleocene of Europe. Eosuchus lies within Gavialoidea crownward of the basal forms Thoracosaurus and Eothoracosaurus. The braincase of Eosuchus is intermediate between that of Thoracosaurus and that of Gavialis; the basisphenoid retains a short (but externally visible) descending lamina, but the basisphenoid is also anteroposteriorly expanded at the level of the median eustachian foramen.
Increased mitochondrial emission of reactive oxygen species and calpain activation are required for doxorubicin-induced cardiac and skeletal muscle myopathy.

Key points Although doxorubicin is a highly effective anti-tumour agent, the administration of this drug is associated with significant side effects, including contractile dysfunction and myopathy of both cardiac and skeletal muscles. The mechanism(s) responsible for doxorubicin-induced contractile dysfunction and myopathy in cardiac and skeletal muscles remains unclear. In the present study, we report that increased mitochondrial oxidant production and calpain activation are major contributors to the development of doxorubicin-induced myopathy. Moreover, treatment with a mitochondrial-targeted peptide protects against doxorubicin-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and myopathy in both heart and skeletal muscles. These experiments provide insight into the mechanisms responsible for DOX-induced contractile dysfunction and myopathy in cardiac and skeletal muscles. Importantly, our results may provide the basis for developing therapeutic approaches to prevent doxorubicin-induced cardiac and skeletal muscle myopathy. Abstract Although doxorubicin (DOX) is a highly effective anti-tumour agent used to treat a variety of cancers, DOX administration is associated with significant side effects, including myopathy of both cardiac and skeletal muscles. The mechanisms responsible for DOX-mediated myopathy remain a topic of debate. We tested the hypothesis that both increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) emission and activation of the cysteine protease calpain are required for DOX-induced myopathy in rat cardiac and skeletal muscle. Cause and effect was determined by administering a novel mitochondrial-targeted anti-oxidant to prevent DOX-induced increases in mitochondrial ROS emission, whereas a highly-selective pharmacological inhibitor was exploited to inhibit calpain activity. Our findings reveal that mitochondria are a major site of DOX-mediated ROS production in both cardiac and skeletal muscle fibres and the prevention of DOX-induced increases in mitochondrial ROS emission protects against fibre atrophy and contractile dysfunction in both cardiac and skeletal muscles. Furthermore, our results indicate that DOX-induced increases in mitochondrial ROS emission are required to activate calpain in heart and skeletal muscles and, importantly, calpain activation is a major contributor to DOX-induced myopathy. Taken together, these findings show that increased mitochondrial ROS production and calpain activation are significant contributors to the development of DOX-induced myopathy in both cardiac and skeletal muscle fibres.
Dynamics of color contrast adaptation

Many forms of color adaptation have been found to reflect both short- and long-term adjustments. We explored the buildup and decay of adaptation to chromatic contrast (temporal modulations of color) for which the dynamics are unknown. A matching task was used to track the perceived contrast of chromatic pulses of varying physical contrast during and after adapting for 1 h to a high contrast modulation repeated over five successive days. The adaptation was characterized by rapid response changes that remained stable in both time course and form across sessions. There was no consistent evidence for long-term plasticity over the time scales we tested.
The role of mitochondrial proteomic analysis in radiological accidents and terrorism

In the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the recent Level 7 nuclear event at the Fukushima Daiichi plant, there has been heightened awareness of the possibility of radiological terrorism and accidents and the need for techniques to estimate radiation levels after such events. A number of approaches to monitoring radiation using biological markers have been published, including physical techniques, cytogenetic approaches, and direct, DNA-analysis approaches. Each approach has the potential to provide information that may be applied to the triage of an exposed population, but problems with development and application of devices or lengthy analyses limit their potential for widespread application. We present a post-irradiation observation with the potential for development into a rapid point-of-care device. Using simple mitochondrial proteomic analysis, we investigated irradiated and nonirradiated murine mitochondria and identified a protein mobility shift occurring at 2–3 Gy. We discuss the implications of this finding both in terms of possible mechanisms and potential applications in bio-radiation monitoring.
Large scale study of multiple-molecule queries

Background In ligand-based screening, as well as in other chemoinformatics applications, one seeks to effectively search large repositories of molecules in order to retrieve molecules that are similar typically to a single molecule lead. However, in some case, multiple molecules from the same family are available to seed the query and search for other members of the same family. Multiple-molecule query methods have been less studied than single-molecule query methods. Furthermore, the previous studies have relied on proprietary data and sometimes have not used proper cross-validation methods to assess the results. In contrast, here we develop and compare multiple-molecule query methods using several large publicly available data sets and background. We also create a framework based on a strict cross-validation protocol to allow unbiased benchmarking for direct comparison in future studies across several performance metrics.
On the contribution of groundwater storage to interannual streamflow anomalies in the Colorado River basin

Abstract. We assess the significance of groundwater storage for seasonal streamflow forecasts by evaluating its contribution to interannual streamflow anomalies in the 29 tributary sub-basins of the Colorado River. Monthly and annual changes in total basin storage are simulated by two implementations of the Variable Infiltration Capacity (VIC) macroscale hydrology model – the standard release of the model, and an alternate version that has been modified to include the SIMple Groundwater Model (SIMGM), which represents an unconfined aquifer underlying the soil column. These estimates are compared to those resulting from basin-scale water balances derived exclusively from observational data and changes in terrestrial water storage from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellites. Changes in simulated groundwater storage are then compared to those derived via baseflow recession analysis for 72 reference-quality watersheds. Finally, estimates are statistically analyzed for relationships to interannual streamflow anomalies, and predictive capacities are compared across storage terms. We find that both model simulations result in similar estimates of total basin storage change, that these estimates compare favorably with those obtained from basin-scale water balances and GRACE data, and that baseflow recession analyses are consistent with simulated changes in groundwater storage. Statistical analyses reveal essentially no relationship between groundwater storage and interannual streamflow anomalies, suggesting that operational seasonal streamflow forecasts, which do not account for groundwater conditions implicitly or explicitly, are likely not detrimentally affected by this omission in the Colorado River basin.
A Review of Fiber-Reinforced Injection Molding: Flow Kinematics and Particle Orientation

The existing flow and particle orientation models applicable to fiber- reinforced injection molding are reviewed. After a brief description of injection molding, previous studies on the flow kinematics and fiber reinforcement are presented. Basics of Hele-Shaw flows are described Including the commonly used viscosity models and foun tain flow effects. Some of the existing models for particle orientation are analyzed with particular emphasis on the amsotropic description of the material system. Concentration regions for short fiber suspensions are defined and relevant constitutive equations are dis cussed. A few example solutions are also given which describe the three-dimensional ori entation field for the filling of a sudden expansion cavity, depicting skin-core orientation structure.
Probabilistic Matrix Addition

We introduce Probabilistic Matrix Addition (PMA) for modeling real-valued data matrices by simultaneously capturing covariance structure among rows and among columns. PMA additively combines two latent matrices drawn from two Gaussian Processes respectively over rows and columns. The resulting joint distribution over the observed matrix does not factorize over entries, rows, or columns, and can thus capture intricate dependencies in the matrix. Exact inference in PMA is possible, but involves inversion of large matrices, and can be computationally prohibitive. Efficient approximate inference is possible due to the sparse dependency structure among latent variables. We propose two families of approximate inference algorithms for PMA based on Gibbs sampling and MAP inference. We demonstrate the effectiveness of PMA for missing value prediction and multi-label classification problems.
Influence of growth temperature on bulk and surface defects in hybrid lead halide perovskite films.

The rapid development of perovskite solar cells has focused its attention on defects in perovskites, which are gradually realized to strongly control the device performance. A fundamental understanding is therefore needed for further improvement in this field. Recent efforts have mainly focused on minimizing the surface defects and grain boundaries in thin films. Using time-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy, we show that bulk defects in perovskite samples prepared using vapor assisted solution process (VASP) play a key role in addition to surface and grain boundary defects. The defect state density of samples prepared at 150 °C (∼1017 cm−3) increases by 5 fold at 175 °C even though the average grains size increases slightly, ruling out grain boundary defects as the main mechanism for the observed differences in PL properties upon annealing. Upon surface passivation using water molecules, the PL intensity and lifetime of samples prepared at 200 °C are only partially improved, remaining significantly lower than those prepared at 150 °C. Thus, the present study indicates that the majority of these defect states observed at elevated growth temperatures originates from bulk defects and underscores the importance to control the formation of bulk defects together with grain boundary and surface defects to further improve the optoelectronic properties of perovskites.
Calibration of Bed-Load Samplers

In this paper, a dimensionless equation to define the trapping efficiency of bed-load samplers is presented. Limited data from the literature was used to identify one independent variable which may be of prime importance in determining trapping efficiency.
Perceived Value: Mediating Role of Perceived Risk

The study reports the results of two experiments designed to test the role of perceived quality, perceived sacrifice, and perceived risks on consumers’ perceptions of product value. The results of ...
Cellular disposition of transported polyamines in hypoxic rat lung and pulmonary arteries.

The polyamines putrescine, spermidine (SPD), and spermine are a family of low-molecular-weight organic cations essential for cell growth and differentiation and other aspects of signal transduction...
A perilous and passionate calling: the development of counsellor spirituality

In recent decades, spirituality has been reinstated as a legitimate arena for counsellors and therapists. However, there is little research on the development of counsellor spirituality. Frances Mackay presents her research on how counsellors integrate their spirituality into their overall narratives of personal and professional development. Sixteen counsellors representing a range of spiritualities, training, work contexts and experience were interviewed to explore the part spirituality played in their decision to become counsellors, their ongoing development and practice as counsellors. A narrative methodology was used to elicit, present and analyse their responses. In the process of analysis, connections between their personal and local story - contextualised in place, time, family, community and culture - and larger stories provided by wisdom traditions and mythology emerged. The 'passion narrative', emerged as an integrative metaphor that could provide coherence within individual stories, and also suggest connections with the larger stories of wisdom traditions and mythology relating to the notion of calling. (editor abstract)
Exploring Dance Rehearsal—The Neglected Issues Revealed

(1992). Exploring Dance Rehearsal—The Neglected Issues Revealed. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance: Vol. 63, No. 6, pp. 61-65.
The numerical solution of Fredholm integral equations using product type quadrature formulas

Product type quadrature formulas are applied to obtain approximate solutions of Fredholm integral equations. A convergence theorem, and several numerical examples which demonstrate the efficacy of the technique, are presented.
Leaching Kinetics of Zinc Sulfide Concentrate with Air-oxidation and Sulfuric Acid

A study on the oxidative leaching kinetics of zinc sulfide concentrate was carried out.The effects of the granularity of zinc sulfide concentrate,acidity,reaction temperature,catalyst quantity,leaching time on the comprehensive leaching ratio were determined.Under the optimal conditions,the comprehensive leaching rate of zinc may reach 98%.The leaching reaction is a typical oxido-reduction and the results show that the leaching process can be simulate with a shrinking core model.The leaching ratio is mixed controlled by the diffusion and reaction of chemistry.An empirical equation for the leaching kinetics is established,which is 1-(1-α)1/3= 8.07×10-7D-1-0.470.14exp(-11072/RT)t+B.It provides the theoretical basis for oxidative leaching zinc sulfide concentrate with air and sulfuric acid.The activation energy is 11.0727 kJ/mol calculated according to the Arrhenius equation.
The Research of Knowledge Transfer in Librarians' Job Rotation

The paper discusses the process of knowledge transfer in librarians' job rotation,puts forward the countermeasures and some optimization strategies for library to develop job rotation.
Bedside emergency transthoracic echocardiography in diagnosis of self-induced cardiac tamponade

Objective To investigate the role of bedside emergency transthoracic echocardiography in the diagnosis of self-induced cardiac tamponade. Methods From Jan 2000 to Aug 2005, 24 cardiac tamponade patients confirmed by clinical pericardiocentesis underwent bedside emergency transthoracic echocardiography in our cardiovascular center. Results Bedside emergency transthoracic echocardiography correctly identified 24 patients without false negative (sensitivity 100%) and with one false positive (specificity 96%). The causes of pericardial effusion were neoplasms (7), tuberculosis (6), acute aorta rupture (5), acute myocardium infarction (4), leucocythemia (1) and hypothyroidism (1). Conclusion Bedside emergency transthoracic echocardiography allows a bedside, rapid, safe and accurate diagnosis of cardiac tamponade and provides diagnostic information necessary for making the therapeutical decision.
Beyond the normal and the pathological: recent literature on Georges Canguilhem.

Braunstein, Jean-Francois (ed.), Canguilhem. Histoire des sciences et politique du vivant (Paris 2007) Daled, Pierre F. (ed.), Alentour de Canguilhem: L’envers de la raison (Paris 2009) Fagot-Largeault,Anne/Claude Debru/Michel Morange (dir.)/Hee-Jin Han (ed.), Philosophie et medecine en hommage a Georges Canguilhem (Paris 2008) Le Blanc, Guillaume, Les maladies de l’homme normal (Paris 2008) Lecourt, Dominique, Georges Canguilhem (Paris 2008)
Activity of pp60C-SRC in 60 different cell lines derived from human tumors

The activity of the protein tyrosine kinase pp60c-src was determined for each of the 60 human cell lines in the panel used by the National Cancer Institute for the random screening of potential anticancer drugs. The leukemia, lymphoma, melanoma, and small-cell lung cancer derived cell lines had low pp60c-src activity. Surprisingly, non-small-cell lung and ovarian cell lines had a median pp60c-src activity which was greater than that of the panel of cells representing colon cancer, which is most often associated with elevated pp60c-src activity. This data defines homologous cell lines which contain low and high pp60c-src activity which will aid attempts to understand the role of this enzyme in human cancer.
A wide difference in susceptibility to nitrite between Eurasian perch ( Perca fluviatilis L.) and largemouth bass ( Micropterus salmoides Lac.)

Influence of nitrite on two fish species, Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis L.) and largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides Lacepede), was assessed in two acute toxicity tests. In the first one, lethal concentrations (48hLC50) of nitrite were estimated at 11 mg l−1 NO2 − for perch and 882 mg l−1 NO2 − for bass. In the second test, fishes were exposed for 48 h to concentrations representing ¼ and ½ value of 48hLC50 for each species. This test showed that the higher nitrite concentration in the water the higher methaemoglobin content in the blood, and nitrite levels in the blood plasma were observed in both species. On the other hand, leucocyte count showed opposite trend. Activity of NADH-methaemoglobin reductase was markedly lower in largemouth bass compared to Eurasian perch and was stimulated by nitrite exposure in neither of the species.
Proteomic profiling of human islets collected from frozen pancreata using laser capture microdissection.

The etiology of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) remains elusive. Enzymatically isolated and cultured (EIC) islets cannot fully reflect the natural protein composition and disease process of in vivo islets, because of the stress from isolation procedures. In order to study islet protein composition in conditions close to the natural environment, we performed proteomic analysis of EIC islets, and laser capture microdissected (LCM) human islets and acinar tissue from fresh-frozen pancreas sections of three cadaveric donors. 1104 and 706 proteins were identified from 6 islets equivalents (IEQ) of LCM islets and acinar tissue, respectively. The proteomic profiles of LCM islets were reproducible within and among cadaveric donors. The endocrine hormones were only detected in LCM islets, whereas catalytic enzymes were significantly enriched in acinar tissue. Furthermore, high overlap (984 proteins) and similar function distribution were found between LCM and EIC islets proteomes, except that EIC islets had more acinar contaminants and stress-related signal transducer activity proteins. The comparison among LCM islets, LCM acinar tissue and EIC islets proteomes indicates that LCM combined with proteomic methods enables accurate and unbiased profiling of islet proteome from frozen pancreata. This paves the way for proteomic studies on human islets during the progression of T1D.
Antibiotic Resistance and Regulation of the Gram-Negative Bacterial Outer Membrane Barrier by Host Innate Immune Molecules.

ABSTRACT The Gram-negative outer membrane is an important barrier that provides protection against toxic compounds, which include antibiotics and host innate immune molecules such as cationic antimicrobial peptides. Recently, significant research progress has been made in understanding the biogenesis, regulation, and functioning of the outer membrane, including a recent paper from the laboratory of Dr. Brett Finlay at the University of British Columbia (J. van der Heijden et al., mBio 7:e01238-16, 2016, http://dx.doi.org/10.1128/mBio.01541-16). These investigators demonstrate that toxic oxygen radicals, such as those found in host tissues, regulate outer membrane permeability by altering the outer membrane porin protein channels to regulate the influx of oxygen radicals as well as β-lactam antibiotics. This commentary provides context about this interesting paper and discusses the prospects of utilizing increased knowledge of outer membrane biology to develop new antibiotics for antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria.
Suboptimal implementation of diagnostic algorithms and overuse of computed tomography-pulmonary angiography in patients with suspected pulmonary embolism.

Background: Majority of our computed tomography-pulmonary angiography (CTPA) scans report negative findings. We hypothesized that suboptimal reliance on diagnostic algorithms contributes to apparent overuse of this test. Methods: A retrospective review was performed on 2031 CTPA cases in a large hospital system. Investigators retrospectively calculated pretest probability (PTP). Use of CTPA was considered as inappropriate when it was ordered for patients with low PTP without checking D-dimer (DD) or following negative DD. Results: Among the 2031 cases, pulmonary embolism (PE) was found in 7.4% (151 cases). About 1784 patients (88%) were considered “PE unlikely” based on Wells score. Out of those patients, 1084 cases (61%) did not have DD test prior to CTPA. In addition, 78 patients with negative DD underwent unnecessary CTPA; none of them had PE. Conclusions: The suboptimal implementation of PTP assessment tools can result in the overuse of CTPA, contributing to ineffective utilization of hospital resources, increased cost, and potential harm to patients.
Enhanced SVD-based Transmit Pre-Processing for Single-User and Multi-User MIMO Wireless Systems with Imperfect CSIT

Transmit precoding techniques using the singular value decomposition of the downlink channel are well-known for the single-user (SU) multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) as well as multi-user (MU) MIMO downlink channel. The accuracy of channel state information at the transmitter (CSIT) has been shown to have a significant impact on system throughput. Different sources of errors can degrade the CSIT accuracy, such as the Gaussian noise from the estimation process, errors from the quantization of the channel estimate, and noise in the feedback channel in frequency-division duplexing (FDD) channels, among others. The objective of this paper is to design robust SVD-based precoding using an incremental SVD for both the SU-MIMO and MU-MIMO channels with imperfect CSIT. The proposed algorithm shows capacity gains of up to 20% as compared to existing SVD-based MIMO precoding algorithms such as block- diagonalization, orthogonal space-division multiplexing (OSDM) and modified total-minimum mean square error (MT-MMSE).
Impact Location in an Isotropic Plate without Training

Abstract Unexpected impacts are a major concern in the aerospace industry that can result in hard-to-detect damage. Techniques have been developed to detect and locate impacts based on time difference of arrival of strain waves propagating to piezoelectric sensors. Current systems typically utilize data from 4 sensors to calculate an impact location and are dependent on the knowledge of the speed of wave propagation in the material or other training data. Training data, like wave propagation velocity, can vary with temperature changes or frequency generated requiring large databases of reference data that can be hard to collect. This paper presents a method of impact detection and location based on hyperbolic positioning, suitable for isotropic homogenous plates, that does not require training. A closed form solution to the underlying location equations is presented which works for general, non-specific, layouts of omnidirectional sensors without knowledge of the wave velocity in the structure. The lack of training data overcomes issues of variation in wave propagation velocity due to temperature changes or other properties. The paper outlines the mathematical formulation, system hardware design considerations, and experimental testing of the system. The calculation simultaneously produces impact location and wave velocity results.
Emergence of strong ferromagnetism in silicene nanoflakes via patterned hydrogenation and its potential application in spintronics

Abstract Considerably different properties emerge in nanomaterials as a result of quantum confinement and edge effects. In this study, the electronic and magnetic properties of quasi zero-dimensional silicene nanoflakes (SiNFs) are investigated using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. While the zigzag-edged hexagonal SiNFs exhibit non-magnetic semiconducting character, the zigzag-edged triangular SiNFs are magnetic semiconductors. One effective method of harnessing the properties of silicene is hydrogenation owing to its reversibility and controllability. From bare SiNFs to half-hydrogenated and then to fully hydrogenated, a triangular SiNF experiences a change from ferrimagnetic to very strong ferromagnetic, and then to non-magnetic. Nonetheless, a hexagonal SiNF undergoes a transfer from non-magnetic to very strong ferromagnetic, then to non-magnetic. The half-hydrogenated SiNFs produce a large spin moment that is directly proportional to the square of the flake’s size. It has been revealed that the strongly induced spin magnetizations align parallel and demonstrates a collective character by large range ferromagnetic exchange coupling, giving rise to its potential use in spintronic circuit devices. Spin switch models are offered as an example of one of the potential applications of SiNFs in tuning the transport properties by controlling the hydrogen coverage.
Are positive and negative reinforcement “different”? Insights from a free-operant differential outcomes effect

Although theoretical discussions typically assume that positive and negative reinforcement differ, the literature contains little unambiguous evidence that they produce differential behavioral effects. To test whether the two types of consequences control behavior differently, we pitted money-gain positive reinforcement and money-loss-avoidance negative reinforcement, scheduled through identically programmed variable-cycle schedules, against each other in concurrent schedules. Contingencies of response-produced feedback, normally different in positive and negative reinforcement, were made symmetrical. Steeper matching slopes were produced compared to a baseline consisting of all positive reinforcement. This free-operant differential outcomes effect supports the notion that that stimulus-presentation positive reinforcement and stimulus-elimination negative reinforcement are functionally "different." However, a control experiment showed that the feedback asymmetry of more traditional positive and negative reinforcement schedules also is sufficient to create a "difference" when the type of consequence is held constant. We offer these findings as a small step in meeting the very large challenge of moving negative reinforcement theory beyond decades of relative quiescence.
CHAPTER 65 – Myocardial Reperfusion Injury—Role of Free Radicals and Mediators of Inflammation

This chapter focuses on the role played by free radicals in myocardial reperfusion injury. Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury is accompanied by an inflammatory response contributing to reversible and irreversible changes in tissue viability and organ function. Endothelial and leukocyte responses are involved in tissue injury, orchestrated primarily by the complement cascade. Anaphylatoxins and assembly of the membrane attack complex contribute directly and indirectly to further tissue damage. Free radical generation during reperfusion of the ischemic myocardium increases Clq, C1r, C3, C8, and C9 mRNA and MAC production by the isolated heart. The antioxidants N -(2-mercaptopropionyl) glycine (MPG) and the intracellular superoxide dismutase mimetic, SC-52608, inhibit free radical-stimulated complement expression. Damaging oxidants are produced during the inflammatory response, which comprises a key part of many pathological conditions, including ischemia/reperfusion injury. Thus, the local activation of complement by free radicals may occur during oxidative stress and may contribute to the tissue injury associated with this event. The burst of free radical production is most intense within the first few moments of reperfusion and is related closely to the expression of mRNA encoding for the tissue production of the complement proteins.
Monopole Antenna Radiation Pattern Control via 3-D-Printed Dielectrics

3-D printing technology has attracted growing interest of many researchers in the area of antenna design as a new prototyping and manufacturing technology. It is capable of forming arbitrary 3-D structures with lower cost and shorter prototyping time. This paper aims to present a novel methodology to control antenna radiation pattern based on 3-D printing of specially designed dielectric material, which realizes spatially dependent dielectric constants around the antenna. As a proof-of-concept, we propose a design of a quarter-wavelength monopole antenna surrounded by a 3-D-printed polymer structure with an optimized dielectric property distribution. Unlike the conventional donut-shaped pattern of a quarter-wavelength monopole antenna, one-beam and multiple-beam patterns are obtained using a genetic-algorithm-based optimization. Different dielectric constant spatial distributions are realized by changing the ratio of the dielectric to air at the unit cell level in the entire antenna volume. A two-beam monopole prototype is designed, fabricated, and tested. The measurement results demonstrate agreement with the simulation results. The proposed design method enables another degree of freedom for antenna design, which can be extended to other types of antennas.
Market thinness, income sorting and leapfrog development across the urban-rural gradient

Abstract This paper investigates the conditions under which thin residential land markets generate an incentive for leapfrog development. We provide empirical evidence that suggests the presence of thinly traded land market in exurban areas. We develop a spatial model of an exurban land market that incorporates this key feature and show the conditions under which leapfrog development emerges. Specifically, given increasing market thinness with distance and a limited number of heterogeneous buyers, higher income households are able to bid down land prices at farther away locations. This creates an incentive for leapfrog development and leads to a positive income gradient, which we also confirm empirically.
Using outcomes data to justify instituting new technology: a single institution’s experience

The PILLAR II trial demonstrated PINPOINT is safe, feasible to use with no reported adverse events and resulted in no anastomotic leaks in patients who had a change in surgical plan based on PINPOINT’s intraoperative assessment of tissue perfusion during colorectal resection. Whether the cost savings associated with this reduction in anastomotic complications can offset the cost of investing in PINPOINT is unknown. We performed a retrospective analysis of all patients (N = 347) undergoing colectomy with primary anastomosis from January 2015 to April 2016. These patients were stratified based on whether fluorescence imaging was used intraoperatively. The clinical outcomes of these patients were then evaluated based on their development of an anastomotic leak or stricture. The direct hospital costs per case were then calculated, and the economic impact of using fluorescence imaging was examined to assess whether decreased direct costs would justify the initial expenditures to purchase new technology (PINPOINT System, NOVADAQ, Canada). Fluorescence imaging in colorectal surgery using PINPOINT reduced the anastomotic failure rate in patients who underwent colon resection. The PINPOINT group (n = 238) had two (0.84%) anastomotic failures, while the non-PINPOINT group (n = 109) had six (5.5%) anastomotic failures. In the PINPOINT group, 11 (4.6%) patients had a change in the resection margin based on the results of the fluorescence imaging, and none of these patients experienced an anastomotic failure. Cost per case was less in the PINPOINT group secondary to fewer direct costs associated with complications. These results validate the findings of the PILLAR II trial and confirm the decrease in direct costs due to reduction in anastomotic failures as a result of using PINPOINT justified the expense of the new technology after just 143 cases.