cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gluconeogenesis in biotin deficiency: in vivo synthesis of pyruvate holocarboxylase in biotin deficient rat liver.

Abstract The activities of key gluconeogenic enzymes in livers of biotin-deficient rats under fed and fasting condition were examined. PEP carboxykinase, FDPase and G6Pase increased significantly on fasting and were not affected by the deficiency. There was a 10- to 20-fold decrease in pyruvate carboxylase activity in the deficiency and fasting had no effect on the activity. Within 1 hour after the administration of biotin to deficient animals there was a 5-fold increase in pyruvate carboxylase activity. Since actinomycin D or puromycin had no effect on the restoration of the activity in vivo it appears that pyruvate apocarboxylase and the holoenzyme synthetase were present in the deficient liver and once biotin was available, in vivo synthesis of pyruvate holocarboxylase occurred.
Quantum fluctuations for two-level atoms in a high-Q cavity with a spatially varying field mode

An extension of the quantum theory of the atom-field interaction within a high-finesse resonator is made to include spatial variations of the field mode in the limit of small cavity decay rate. The two particular examples of a Gaussian mode field in a ring cavity and a plane-wave field in a standing-wave interferometer are presented to illustrate the method. Analytic expressions are obtained for the incoherent intensity and photon correlations of the transmitted field. In qualitative terms, effects such as sub-Poissonian photon statistics predicted by the plane-wave theory in a ring cavity are preserved. In either the weak-field or dispersive limit the results of the plane-wave theory in a ring cavity are recovered independent of the form of the spatial dependence of the cavity mode.
The Effect of Handle Shape on Grip Fatigue in Manual Lifting

This study investigated the effect which various handle shapes produced on grip fatigue. This was measured through the calculation of a time to fatigue using a spectral analysis of the surface EMG of the grip muscles and through the determination of maximal pull forces in the upward direction. Significant differences existed between the handles in the maximum pull test, but not in the times to fatigue.
A phase II trial of preirradiation carboplatin in newly diagnosed germinoma of the central nervous system.

Background. Central nervous system (CNS) germinomas respond readily to both radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This study was designed to selectively reduce the dose of radiotherapy in those patients expressing a complete response (CR) to neoadjuvant carboplatin. Methods. A Phase II trial with carboplatin was conducted in 11 newly diagnosed patients with histologically confirmed, radiologically evaluable CNS germinomas before they received radiotherapy. All patients had normal cerebrospinal fluid and serum tumor markers (i. e., human chorionic gonadotropin [HCG] and alpha fetoprotein [AFP]). Seven patients had localized tumors (three pineal, three suprasellar, and one thalamus), and four had multifocal disease. Their median age at diagnosis was 13 years (range, 7-31). One course of carboplatin consisted of 150 mg/m2 weekly for 4 consecutive weeks followed by a 2-week break. Response was evaluated after two courses. If a patient had a CR to chemotherapy, the radiotherapy doses to the involved field and the craniospinal axis were lowered from 50 Gy to 30 Gy and from 36 Gy to 21 Gy, respectively. If less than a CR was observed, two additional courses of chemotherapy were administered, after which the patient's response was reevaluated. Less than a CR required full radiotherapy doses. The radiotherapy volume was determined by the extent of disease at diagnosis (i. e., localized disease was treated with an involved field and craniospinal therapy was used for disseminated disease). Results. Seven patients had a CR to carboplatin (five patients after two courses and two patients after four courses). Three patients had a partial response (one after four courses and two after two courses). The investigators of the latter two patients chose not to give additional chemotherapy. Another patient opted for radiotherapy after receiving only one course of chemotherapy and was not evaluable for response. Ten of 11 patients remain in continuous remission for a median of 25 months. One patient had a recurrence. He presented with a localized pineal germinoma and had a CR after two courses of carboplatin. He received 30 Gy of involved field radiotherapy and suffered a relapse 5 months later in multiple CNS sites. He died 23 months after diagnosis with diffuse CNS and peritoneal metastases. His serum AFP and HCG levels were elevated, consistent with a nongerminoma germcell tumor. Conclusions. Carboplatin was highly active in treating newly diagnosed CNS germinomas. Further chemotherapy studies eventually may permit additional dose reductions and/or elimination of radiotherapy for patients with CNS germinomas. Cancer 1994; 74: 940-4.
Effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol on neurotransmitter accumulation and release mechanisms in rat forebrain synaptosomes

Abstract The effects of (−)−Δ9-THC were studied on the release and accumulation of 3H5HT and 3HNE in a rat forebrain synaptosomal preparation. These studies were designed to evaluate the possible sites of action of Δ9-THC on these two processes. Δ9-THC inhibited the accumulation of 3H-leucine, 3HNE, and 3H5HT, as well as facilitated the release of the latter two amines (to a lesser degree), but had no effect on the release of 3H-leucine. Eighteen-hour pre-treatment with reserpine diminished the ability of Δ9-THC to induce release of 3H5HT, but had no effect on the in vitro inhibition of synaptosomal uptake of this amine. Concentrations of Δ9-THC which blocked the uptake of 3H5HT also reduced the conversion of 3H5HT to 3H-5-hydroxy-3-indoleacetic acid. However, Δ9-THC, at concentrations which facilitated release of 3H5HT from preloaded synaptosomes, increased the amount of 3H5HIAA found in the medium. Taken together, these data suggest that Δ9-THC facilitates release from the synaptic vesicle and retards accumulation at the neuronal membrane.
Explicit formulas for 2-characters

Abstract Ganter and Kapranov associated a 2-character to 2-representations of a finite group. Elgueta classified 2-representations in the category of 2-vector spaces 2 Vect k in terms of cohomological data. We give an explicit formula for the 2-character in terms of this cohomological data and derive some consequences.
Use of Mini-Fyke Nets for Sampling Shallow-Water Fish Communities in Florida Lakes

AbstractWe evaluated mini-fyke nets for sampling shore-based (SB; <1 m deep) fish communities in Florida lakes. Specifically, we wanted to determine the most effective deployment method and sample size required for adequately characterizing fish communities in these habitats. Shallow SB (0.15–0.6 m) net sets, in which nets were not completely submersed, collected significantly more individuals and a larger proportion of poeciliids. However, deep SB (0.6–1.0 m) net sets, in which nets were completely submersed, collected a larger proportion of centrarchids, cyprinids, and cyprinidontids. Net placement also significantly affected the overall catch and composition of samples. Nets placed in locations away from the lake boundary tended to collect actively schooling fishes such as Threadfin Shad Dorosoma petenense and cyprinids. Nets placed next to the lake boundary tended to collect species associated with shallow, vegetated habitats, particularly poeciliids, at greater frequencies. In some cases, the collect...
Fermi-liquid theory for interband transitions

Abstract Previous uses of the Landau quasiparticle theory have been confined to cases where the driving frequency is small. Here a Landau-type theory including interband transitions is derived. The quasiparticle transport equation is derived by a procedure similar to that of Luttinger and Nozieres and Jones and McClure using a bi-orthogonal expansion introduced by Layzer. Using a Ward-type relationship, the connection between quasiparticle quantities and physical densities and currents is made.
Stratospheric ozone destruction by aircraft-induced nitrogen oxides

The preliminary results from a three-dimensional dynamic-chemical model applied to the SST-NOx (NO + NO2) problem are reported. Simulations indicate that a depletion of about 12 per cent in total stratospheric O3 would be realized for a continuous NOx injection rate of 1.8 x 10 to the sixth power metric tons per year from a hypothetical fleet of SST's flying at an altitude of 20 km in the midlatitudes of the Northern Hemisphere. Sixteen per cent of the existing O3 would be destroyed on an annual basis. The model assumes a fleet of about 500 aircraft of the now-canceled American Boeing 2707 type; if only present Anglo-French and Russian SST models, which fly at lower, less harmful altitudes, are built, it will take a fleet of a few thousand such craft to attain an effective injection rate equal to the one above.
Managing Erectile Dysfunction in Patients With Cardiovascular Diseases: The Efficacy and Safety of Phosphodiesterase-5 Inhibitors

Patients with cardiovascular disease have a high prevalence of erectile dysfunction. Recent evidence demonstrated that erectile dysfunction is an early indication of coronary artery disease. Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors are effective in managing erectile dysfunction due to cardiovascular disease. However, when used together with nitrates or other vasodilators such as alpha-antagonists, they may cause hypotension. Clinical studies demonstrated that in patients with stable coronary artery disease, heart failure, and hypertension controlled by medications who were not receiving nitrates, PDE-5 inhibitors were well tolerated. Therefore, it is important for clinicians to carefully evaluate each patient before initiating PDE-5 inhibitors. PDE-5 inhibitors are absolutely contraindicated with concurrent nitrate use. No PDE-5 inhibitors should be administered within 12 hours after the last nitrate dose. If a patient develops chest pain while taking PDE-5 inhibitors, nitrates should be administered only a...
An electrophoretic and biochemical comparison of soluble trehalase from Drosophila melanogaster and D. simulans

Abstract Soluble trehalases isolated from adult Drosophila melanogaster and D. simulans can be distinguished following polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in triethanolamine gels. Ferguson plots indicated that the two forms are related as charge isomers. This suggests that these trehalases are most likely allozymes, an interpretation which is consistent with the taxonomic relationship of the two species. A comparison of the pH optima and K m of the soluble enzyme obtained from 0 to 3-day-old and 12 to 15-day-old D. melanogaster and 0 to 4-day-old and 12 to 15-day-old D. simulans revealed no differences. The pH optima of the enzymes lay between 5.5 and 6.0 and the average K m , estimated from Lineweaver-Burk plots, is 7.26 × 10+4 M. However, there were marked differences in the maximal catalytic activity per gram wet weight of soluble trehalases; the catalytic activity of both age samples of D. simulans enzyme exceeded that of both samples from D. melanogaster. In both species, the younger flies showed higher activity.
Data gathering and analysis for needs assessment: A case study

Various data-gathering and analysis methods available in our profession's literature, current and past, provide rich options for conducting quality needs assessments. These methods assisted with a thorough needs assessment for a billable hours issue in the parts and service department of a large, power tool and equipment retailer based in the Midwestern United States.
Histone deacetylase inhibition is associated with transcriptional repression of the Hmga2 gene

The high-mobility-group A2 protein (HMGA2) plays important functional roles in transcriptional regulation, DNA replication and chromatin structure. In this study, the effect of histone deacetylase inhibition on the transcriptional activity of the Hmga2 gene was investigated in vivo both at the endogenous gene level and in a variety of cell lines using transiently transfected promoter constructs. Trichostatin A (TSA) repressed both transfected murine and human Hmga2 promoter constructs 3–8-fold in NIH3T3, F9 and HeLa cells. Steady-state Hmga2 mRNA levels in NIH3T3 cells decreased 4–5-fold following TSA treatment, while pre- treatment of NIH3T3 cells with the transcriptional inhibitor, actinomycin D, completely blocked TSA mediated repression of the Hmga2 gene. Cross-linked chromatin immunoprecipitation (X-ChIP) analysis revealed a 5–6-fold decrease in endogenous Hmga2 promoter bound Sp1 and Sp3 proteins following TSA treatment in parallel with observed loss of acetylated histone H3 and H4. In addition, the poly-pyrimidine-tract-binding protein (PTB) was observed to bind to the Hmga2 promoter in both TSA treated and untreated NIH3T3 cells. Together, these results suggest TSA treatment leads to a decrease in Hmga2 gene transcription, and a significant decrease in promoter bound Sp1, Sp3 and acetylated histones H3 and H4.
Viral Genome Methylation Differentially Affects the Ability of BZLF1 versus BRLF1 To Activate Epstein-Barr Virus Lytic Gene Expression and Viral Replication

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) immediate-early proteins BZLF1 and BRLF1 can both induce lytic EBV reactivation when overexpressed in latently infected cells. Although EBV genome methylation is required for BZLF1-mediated activation of lytic gene expression, the effect of viral genome methylation on BRLF1-mediated viral reactivation has not been well studied. Here, we have compared the effect of viral DNA methylation on BZLF1- versus BRLF1-mediated activation of lytic EBV gene transcription and viral genome replication. We show that most early lytic viral promoters are preferentially activated by BZLF1 in the methylated form, while methylation decreases the ability of BRLF1 to activate most early lytic promoters, as well as the BLRF2 late viral promoter. Moreover, methylation of bacmid constructs containing the EBV genome enhances BZLF1-mediated, but decreases BRLF1-mediated, early lytic gene expression. Methylation of viral promoter DNA does not affect BRLF1 binding to a variety of different CpG-containing BRLF1 binding motifs (RREs) in vitro or in vivo. However, BRLF1 preferentially induces H3K9 histone acetylation of unmethylated promoters in vivo. The methylated and unmethylated forms of an oriLyt-containing plasmid replicate with similar efficiency when transfected into EBV-positive cells that express the essential viral replication proteins in trans. Most importantly, we demonstrate that lytic viral gene expression and replication can be induced by BRLF1, but not BZLF1, expression in an EBV-positive telomerase-immortalized epithelial cell line (NOKs-Akata) in which lytic viral gene promoters remain largely unmethylated. These results suggest that the unmethylated form of the EBV genome can undergo viral reactivation and replication in a BRLF1-dependent manner.
Rational approximations by implicit Runge-Kutta schemes

Ehle [3] has pointed out that then-stage implicit Runge-Kutta (IRK) methods due to Butcher [1] areA-stable in the definition of Dahlquist [2] because they effect the operationR(Ah) whereR(μ) is the diagonal Pade approximation toe µ. The purpose of this note is to point out that ifR(μ)=P(μ)/Q(μ) is a rational polynomial whosen poles are distinct and nonzero, and if degreeP(μ)≦degreeQ(μ)=n, then ann-stage IRK method applied toy=A y can be used for the operation $$y^{n + 1} = R(Ah)y^n $$ This will no longer be of order 2n, nor necessarily the same order as the approximation ofR(Ah) toe Ah. However, if any particularly useful integration formsR can be found, they can be performed by the IRK method.
Studies on the Saliva of the Hen

Abstract STUDIES on the saliva of the hen were prompted by a lack of available specific information. Although the methods in this experiment might be improved upon, we nevertheless feel that they are sufficiently accurate to be used as a basis for specific statements. MATERIALS AND METHODS The hens studied were mature, having passed through one or more laying seasons, and weighing not less than 4¾ pounds nor more than 6¾ pounds. Specific breeds were not selected except in an attempt to obtain a cosmopolitan group of breeds and mixtures. In all, 34 hens were used; the first four for experimental surgery; the rest being divided into five groups (six hens each) from which the experimental salivary data were taken. The saliva collected was mixed saliva, or in other words, the secretion from the salivary glands, the glands of the mouth and pharynx and the upper part of the esophagus. The . . .
The association between maternal glucose concentration and child BMI at age 3 years.

OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to determine the association between child BMI at age 3 years and maternal glucose concentration among women without pre-existing diabetes or a gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) diagnosis. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Data are from the Pregnancy Infection and Nutrition and Postpartum studies and include 263 mother-child pairs. Measured weights and heights at 3 years were used to calculate age- and sex-specific BMI z scores and percentiles. Multivariable linear regression models were used to examine associations of continuous BMI z scores with maternal glucose concentration. Modified Poisson regression estimated risk ratios of child overweight/obesity (BMI ≥85th percentile). RESULTS The mean (SD) maternal glucose concentration and prepregnancy BMI were 103.8 (23.7) mg/dL and 24.3 (5.9) kg/m 2 , respectively. At 3 years, the mean (SD) child BMI z score was 0.29 (0.99), 20.9% were overweight/obese and 5.3% were obese. In the adjusted model, when compared with glucose concentration z score at 3 years (estimated z score difference of 0.39 [95% CI: 0.03–0.75]). With the use of the same reference category, a concentration ≥130 mg/dL was associated with an approximate twofold greater risk of child overweight/obesity (adjusted risk ratio 2.34 [95% CI: 1.25–4.38]). CONCLUSIONS Fetal exposure to high maternal glucose concentration in the absence of pre-existing diabetes or GDM may contribute to the development of overweight/obesity in the offspring, independent of maternal prepregnancy BMI.
Hybrid ARQ for robust video streaming over wireless LANs

The authors address the problem of transmission of multimedia data over a wireless local area network (LAN). The wireless LAN is modeled as a packet erasure channel. We present a solution that efficiently combines Automatic Repeat Request (ARQ) and Forward Error Correction (FEC) coding for sending compressed video and audio over a packet network.
Hybrid finite element/boundary element analysis of a stripline notch array

The results of a two-dimensional finite-element/boundary-element time-harmonic analysis of an eight-element stripline notch phased array are presented. The hybrid finite-element/boundary-element method can be used for both near and far-field radiation and scattering analysis. The boundary-element method is used for the exterior far-field region, and the finite-element method is used for the near-field antenna/scatterer region. Predictions are given and compared with measured results of array-element pattern, gain vs. frequency, and array scanned pattern. >
Effects of Forage Management on Pasture Productivity and Phosphorus Content

The objectives of the current study were to determine the amounts of above- and below-ground plant biomass production, P uptake by forage, and P concentration of cool-season grass forage as influenced by management and season. Five forage management treatments were evaluated over 3 years in smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermis Leyss) pastures. Management practices were: ungrazed (U), hay harvest/fall stockpile grazing (HS), rotational stocking to residual sward heights of 10 (10R) or 5 (5R) cm, and continuous stocking to maintain sward height at 5 cm (5C). Forage samples were hand-clipped within and outside grazing exclosures monthly from April through November of each year and analyzed for mass and P concentration. Root samples were collected at the initiation and completion of the study for determination of root length density (RLD) and root surface area density (RSAD). Phosphorus concentrations of forage outside the grazing exclosures did not differ among 5C, 5R, and 10R treatments, which were greater than U paddocks in April and August and less than HS paddocks in June. Mean annual forage productivity was greater in HS, 10R, 5R, and 5C paddocks (6 744 6 62 kg ? ha 21 mean 6 SE) than in the U paddocks (1 872 6 255 kg ? ha 21 ). Mean P concentration of forage outside exclosures was greatest during the spring (0.21 6 0.01%), and lowest during the fall (0.13 6 0.01%). Mean annual P uptake by forage followed the same trend as forage production, being greater in the HS, 10R, 5R, and 5C paddocks (13.9 6 2.0 kg ? ha 21 ) than in the U paddocks (3.7 6 0.5 kg ? ha 21 ). After 3 years, RLD decreased in the ungrazed paddocks, but was unchanged in the HS, 10R, 5R, and 5C paddocks. Forage production and P uptake by forage is stimulated by forage harvest, either by grazing or hay harvest in smooth bromegrass pastures.
Transforming English Language Learners' Work Readiness: Case Studies in Explicit, Work-Specific Vocabulary Instruction.

This qualitative study examined the impact of a six-step framework for work-specific vocabulary instruction in adult English language learners (ELLs). Guided by research in English as a second lang...
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome presenting as papilledema

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a central nervous system pathology characterized by headaches, altered mental status, seizures, and visual loss. The syndrome is a clincoradiologic diagnosis, which mandates neuroimaging. The aim of this study is to describe a case of asymptomatic PRES in which the only sign was incidental papilledema found on ophthalmologic examination. A thin 19-year-old female G1P1 s/p natural spontaneous vaginal delivery was referred to our emergency department (ED) by the ophthalmology clinic after finding bilateral papilledema on fundoscopic examination. She denied any fevers, chills, nausea, vomiting, as well as headache, lightheadedness, visual changes, or blurriness. Lumbar puncture was performed, and opening pressure was found to be greater than 55 cmH2O. After collecting Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for routine analysis, approximately 15 to 20 mL of CSF was drained. After several revisits to the ED, the neurology clinic was consulted. The magnetic resonance imaging ordered by the neurology clinic, as read by the radiologist, showed a focal lesion in splenium of the corpus callosum and diffusion restriction suggestive of acute infarction (although the anatomical location and age would be unusual). This is an atypical manifestation of PRES. The myriad of clinical symptoms and presentations of PRES has become more identifiable as more case reports of the syndrome are published. This case demonstrates that this atypical syndrome may present in an atypical way. The patient may be asymptomatic, and although imaging defines the diagnosis, a complete physical examination must not be ignored because the only sign may be papilledema.
Toward a Unified Theory: Threads in a Tapestry

appearance of strangeness were well-defined parts of the picture, but they could not be easily fitted together. Things have changed. Today we have what has been called a “standard theory” of elementary particle physics in which strong, weak, and electromagnetic interactions all arise from a local symmetry principle. It is, in a sense, a complete and apparently correct theory, offering a qualitative description of all particle phenomena and precise quantitative predictions in many instances. There is no experimental data that contradicts the theory. In principle, if not yet in practice, all experimental data can be expressed in terms of a small number of “fundamental” masses and coupling constants. The theory we now have is an integral work of art: the patchwork quilt has become a tapestry. Tapestries are made by many artisans working together. The contributions of separate workers cannot be discerned in the completed work, and the loose and false threads have been covered over. So it is in our picture of particle physics. Part of the picture is the unification of weak and electromagnetic interactions and the prediction of neutral currents, now being celebrated by the award of the Nobel Prize. Another part concerns the reasoned evolution of the quark hypothesis from mere whimsy to established dogma. Yet another is the development of quantum chromodynamics into a plausible, powerful, and predictive theory of strong interactions. All is woven together in the tapestry; one part makes little sense without the other. Even the development of the electroweak theory was not as simple and straightforward as it might have been. It did not arise full blown in the mind of one physic&t, nor even of three. It, too, is the result of the collective endeavor of many scientists, both experimenters and theorists. Let me stress that I do not believe that the standard theory will long
Regeneration and Repair

When it comes to the capacity to regenerate damaged parts of the body, humans are by no means the most advanced among animal species. At the level of single cell populations, humans do exhibit some degree of regenerative potential--for example, hepatocytes have the ability to restore up to 75% of a surgically removed or damaged liver. However, as every schoolchild knows, salamanders and starfish can regrow entire amputated appendages, a remarkable feat well beyond the scope of human capacity. Accordingly, the standing consensus position of the scientific community has deemed mammals fundamentally and unalterably different from those more "primitive" yet regeneration-competent species. Current approaches for the restoration of organ function in humans have therefore been limited to allogeneic organ or cell transplantation--strategies that, while effective, nonetheless exhibit major limitations based on availability of donor tissues and the risk of rejection unless extensive immunosuppression is induced.
A new interpretation of lattice structure convergence rates

The authors examine the lattice structure and its use as a model structure for the identification of signals and systems. The structure is examined in a state-space context, and the parameter information content developed earlier is explored in this useful parameterization. The behavior of a recursive prediction error method (RPEM) lattice identifier, as observed by J.J. Shynk (1987), is explained. The analysis indicates why lattice structures are generally a very good structure on which to base signal or system identification. >
Thermal management system for high performance PowerPC/sup TM/ microprocessors

Thermal management is an important design issue in high-performance, low-power portable computers. If the computer system is designed for worst-case processor power dissipation and environmental operating conditions, it carries an area and cost penalty for the system designer. The next-generation PowerPC/sup TM/ microprocessor includes a thermal assist unit (TAU) comprised of an on-chip thermal sensor and associated logic. The TAU monitors the junction temperature of the processor and dynamically adjusts processor operation to provide maximum performance under changing environmental conditions. The TAU is used in conjunction with other low-power features such as dynamic power management, instruction cache throttling and static low-power modes to provide comprehensive power and thermal management. This paper describes the implementation of the TAU and presents its characterization and operating data from first silicon.
Load Control Using Building Thermal Mass

This paper provides an overview of research related to use of building thermal mass for shifting and reducing peak cooling loads in commercial buildings. The paper presents background on the concept and the problem of optimizing zone temperature setpoints and provides specific results that have been obtained through simulations, controlled laboratory testing, and field studies. The studies have demonstrated significant savings potential for use of building thermal mass in commercial buildings. However, the savings are sensitive to many factors, including utility rates, type of equipment, occupancy schedule, building construction, climate conditions, and control strategy. The paper also attempts to provide an assessment of the state of the art in load control using building thermal mass and to identify the steps necessary to achieve widespread application of appropriate control strategies.
Mitofusins 1 and 2 Are Essential for Postnatal Metabolic Remodeling in Heart

Rationale:At birth, there is a switch from placental to pulmonary circulation and the heart commences its aerobic metabolism. In cardiac myocytes, this transition is marked by increased mitochondrial biogenesis and remodeling of the intracellular architecture. The mechanisms governing the formation of new mitochondria and their expansion within myocytes remain largely unknown. Mitofusins (Mfn-1 and Mfn-2) are known regulators of mitochondrial networks, but their role during perinatal maturation of the heart has yet to be examined. Objective:The objective of this study was to determine the significance of mitofusins during early postnatal cardiac development. Methods and Results:We genetically inactivated Mfn-1 and Mfn-2 in midgestational and postnatal cardiac myocytes using a loxP/Myh6-cre approach. At birth, cardiac morphology and function of double-knockout (DKO) mice are normal. At that time, DKO mitochondria increase in numbers, appear to be spherical and heterogeneous in size, but exhibit normal elec...
Identification of Persons with Incident Ocular Diseases Using Health Care Claims Databases

Purpose To assess the extent to which incidence rates calculated for common ocular diseases by using claims data may be overestimated according to the length of the disease-free look-back period used in the analysis. Design Retrospective longitudinal cohort analysis. Methods Billing records of 2457 persons continuously enrolled for 11 years in a managed-care network were searched for International Classification of Diseases (ICD-9-CM) diagnoses of cataract, open-angle glaucoma (OAG), nonexudative age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), and nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) at eye-care visits in the first half of 2001, the second half of 2010, and 2011. For each condition, incidence rates calculated by using “look-back” periods ranging from 0.5-9 years were compared with best estimates from a gold-standard period of 9.5 years. Results With a 1-year disease-free look-back period, incidence was overestimated by 260% for cataract, 135% for OAG, 209% for ARMD, and 300% for NPDR. Expanding the disease-free look-back period to 3 years resulted in a reduction of incidence overestimation to 40% for cataract, 14% for OAG, 45% for ARMD, and 100% for NPDR. A 5-year look-back period yielded incidence rates that were overestimated by Conclusions In our claims-data analysis of 4 common ocular conditions, a disease-free interval ≤1 year insufficiently distinguished newly diagnosed from pre-existing disease, resulting in grossly overestimated incidence rates. Using look-back periods of 3-5 years, depending on the specific diagnosis, yielded considerably more accurate estimates of disease incidence.
The plane-wave/super Yang-Mills duality

This article reviews the plane-wave/super Yang-Mills duality, which states that strings on a plane-wave background are dual to a particular large $R$-charge sector of $\mathcal{N}=4$, $D=4$ superconformal $\mathrm{U}(N)$ gauge theory. This duality is a specification of the usual anti--de Sitter/conformed field theory (AdS/CFT) correspondence in the ``Penrose limit.'' The Penrose limit of ${\mathrm{AdS}}_{5}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{S}^{5}$ leads to the maximally supersymmetric ten-dimensional plane wave (henceforth ``the'' plane wave) and corresponds to restricting to the large $R$-charge sector, the Berenstein-Maldacena-Nastase (BMN) sector, of the dual superconformal field theory. After reviewing the necessary background, the authors state the duality and review some of its supporting evidence. They discuss the suggestion by 't Hooft that Yang-Mills theories with gauge groups of large rank might be dual to string theories and the realization of this conjecture in the form of the AdS/CFT duality. Plane waves as exact solutions of supergravity and their appearance as Penrose limits of other backgrounds are considered, followed by an overview of string theory on the plane-wave background, discussing the symmetries and spectrum. The article then makes precise the statement of the proposed duality and classifies the BMN operators. It examines the gauge theory side of the duality, studying both quantum and nonplanar corrections to correlation functions of BMN operators and their operator-product expansions. The important issue of operator mixing and the resultant need for rediagonalization is stressed. Finally, the article studies strings on the plane wave via light-cone string field theory and demonstrates agreement between the one-loop correction to the string mass spectrum and the corresponding quantity in the gauge theory. A new presentation of the relevant superalgebra is given.
Characterization of Two Tetrachloroethene-Reducing, Acetate-Oxidizing Anaerobic Bacteria and Their Description as Desulfuromonas michiganensis sp. nov.

Two tetrachlorethene (PCE)-dechlorinating populations, designated strains BB1 and BRS1, were isolated from pristine river sediment and chloroethene-contaminated aquifer material, respectively. PCE-to-cis-1,2-dichloroethene-dechlorinating activity could be transferred in defined basal salts medium with acetate as the electron donor and PCE as the electron acceptor. Taxonomic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing placed both isolates within the Desulfuromonas cluster in the delta subdivision of the Proteobacteria. PCE was dechlorinated at rates of at least 139 nmol min(-1) mg of protein(-1) at pH values between 7.0 and 7.5 and temperatures between 25 and 30 degrees C. Dechlorination also occurred at 10 degrees C. The electron donors that supported dechlorination included acetate, lactate, pyruvate, succinate, malate, and fumarate but not hydrogen, formate, ethanol, propionate, or sulfide. Growth occurred with malate or fumarate alone, whereas oxidation of the other electron donors depended strictly on the presence of fumarate, malate, ferric iron, sulfur, PCE, or TCE as an electron acceptor. Nitrate, sulfate, sulfite, thiosulfate, and other chlorinated compounds were not used as electron acceptors. Sulfite had a strong inhibitory effect on growth and dechlorination. Alternate electron acceptors (e.g., fumarate or ferric iron) did not inhibit PCE dechlorination and were consumed concomitantly. The putative fumarate, PCE, and ferric iron reductases were induced by their respective substrates and were not constitutively present. Sulfide was required for growth. Both strains tolerated high concentrations of PCE, and dechlorination occurred in the presence of free-phase PCE (dense non-aqueous-phase liquids). Repeated growth with acetate and fumarate as substrates yielded a BB1 variant that had lost the ability to dechlorinate PCE. Due to the 16S rRNA gene sequence differences with the closest relatives and the unique phenotypic characteristics, we propose that the new isolates are members of a new species, Desulfuromonas michiganensis, within the Desulfuromonas cluster of the Geobacteraceae.
The Role of Mineral Aerosol in Tropospheric Chemistry in East Asia—A Model Study

A detailed gas-phase chemistry mechanism is combined with dust surface uptake processes to explore possible impacts of mineral dust on tropospheric chemistry. The formations of sulfate and nitrate on dust are studied along with the dust effects on the photochemical oxidant cycle for the long-range-transported particles with a diameter of 0.1‐40 mm. The results show that mineral dust may influence tropospheric sulfate, nitrate, and O 3 formation by affecting trace gas concentrations and the tropospheric oxidation capacity through surface processes. The postulated heterogeneous mechanism provides a plausible interpretation for the observed high nitrate and sulfate on dust and the anticorrelation between O 3 and dust in East Asia. The presence of dust results in decreases in the concentrations of SO 2 (10%‐53%), (16%‐100%, defined as NO 3 1 N2O5 1 HNO3), HxOy (11%‐59%, p NOy defined as OH1 HO2 1 H2O2), and O3 (11%‐40%) under model conditions representative of spring dust storms in East Asia. The decrease in solar actinic flux and the surface uptake of O 3 and its precursors contribute to the total O 3 decrease for the conditions studied. Nitrate and sulfate, 0.9‐2.1 and 0.3‐10 m gm 23, respectively, are formed on dust particles, mostly in the size range of 1.5‐10 mm. The magnitude of the dust effect strongly depends on the preexisting dust surfaces, the initial conditions, and the selection of model parameters associated with surface uptake processes. The impact of dust reactions on O 3 reduction is highly sensitive to the uptake coefficient and to the possible renoxification from the surface reaction of HNO 3 on dust.
Intravital Microscopy to Image Membrane Trafficking in Live Rats

Intravital microscopy is a powerful tool that enables imaging various biological processes in live animals. Here, we describe a series of procedures designed to image subcellular structures, such as endosomes and secretory vesicles in the salivary glands (SGs) of live rats. To this aim, we used fluorescently labeled molecules and/or fluorescently tagged proteins that were transiently transfected in the live animal.
Learning versus sunk costs explanations of export persistence

Abstract This paper explores the role of sunk costs versus learning in explaining persistence in exporting. Multiple studies attributed such persistence to sunk market-entry costs. This paper shows that similar patterns of exporting are also consistent with a learning mechanism and finds a strong empirical support for such a mechanism in the context of Colombian plant-level data. Second, the paper empirically discriminates between the two competing theories, and finds that once learning is controlled for, the role of sunk costs in generating export persistence is at most forty percent of what is currently estimated in the literature. Finally, while in differentiated-products industries export persistence arises primarily due to learning, in the homogeneous-products industries such persistence arises primarily due to the sunk-cost mechanism.
Protection and Export Insurance: the Identification and the Measurement of International Trade Risks

International trade risk is a complex political and economic phenomenon. Good understanding of this risk is a necessary condition to be able to deal with it. The taxonomy and the analysis provided in this paper is aimed at helping decision makers to identify the sources of international trade risk, and to manage it as a part of the financial management of the firm. The classification of the risks enables the manager to use the appropriate instruments to reduce, or eliminate different types of risks. For example, political risk should be insured by those agencies who are involved in its creation, while regular economic risks can be dealt with by the market.
Time-of-flight detection coupled to a flowing afterglow: Improvements and characterization

Abstract An orthogonally accelerated time-of-flight mass spectrometer has been added to a flowing afterglow–Langmuir probe apparatus, coupled by a rectilinear ion guide. The TOF has improved the signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio by about an order of magnitude over a quadrupole mass filter/electron multiplier detection typical for flow tube instruments of this type and used previously. The improved S/N reduces our data acquisition time commensurately. Additionally, mass discrimination is low enough that it is minimal for ions heavier than ∼10 amu. The lack of mass discrimination not only reduces experiment time but also leads to greater accuracy in the measurement of reaction rate coefficients. Finally, simultaneous detection of both heavy and light ions is improved. H + can now be detected and WF 5 + isotopes can be separated without reducing sensitivity. We have found that discrimination against low-mass ions can occur when certain electron-attaching reactants are used (e.g. SF 6 ), and possibly due to radicals formed after certain other reactants attach electrons. Evidence points to adsorption of these species on surfaces of the ion guide immediately behind the flowing afterglow sampling orifice, which separates the flow tube and TOF region. The adsorption follows a Langmuir isotherm profile and is greatly reduced by heating the gas in the flow tube.
Grain size controlled high-strength silicon nitride ceramics

Silicon nitride sintered bodies composed of finegrained α-Si3N4 and β′-sialon were fabricated by the gas-pressing sintering method. The silicon nitride sintered body showed a very high strength of about 2.0 GPa at room temperature, shock resistance of about 20kJ·m-2 (Charpy impact value) and 3-point bending fatigue limit of about 1.3 GPa.
Building meaningful cross-sector partnerships for children and media initiatives: a conversation café with scholars and activists from around the world

AbstractIn this essay, we bring together academics and activists from around the world in a “conversation cafe” to share their perspectives on the past, present, and future of children and media with specific emphasis on building meaningful cross-sector partnerships. Key change-agents from academe, nonprofits, and for-profit organizations committed to youth and media literacy from the USA, the UK, Singapore, the Netherlands, Australia, and India participated in this discussion. A unique online conversation cafe was set up to facilitate discussions over a three-week period. The conversation provides a flavor of the changing media landscape, local-global tensions, industry-academe-nonprofit initiatives, and unique challenges and opportunities relating to building cross-sector partnerships in various cultural contexts. Future directions for scholarship and activism relating to youth media, technology, and arts are discussed.
Beliefs about HIV in Low-Income Nicaraguan Women.

In Latin America, women account for more than 30% of all HIV cases. However, minimal research has been reported on women's beliefs about HIV in Latin America. The purpose of our qualitative study was to describe HIV beliefs in a sample of low-income Nicaraguan women living in a squatter settlement in Managua. Participants (N = 34) were women who participated in four focus groups. The mean age of the women was 40 years, and the mean education level was 5 years. Women reported a plurality of beliefs about HIV, some of which were biomedically accurate while others were not. Themes of stigma and rejection emerged across all focus group discussions. Younger women were more informed than older women. The findings are instructive for nurses working with Nicaraguan women and may be useful in developing HIV education interventions with similar populations in other Latin American countries or with immigrants from those countries.
Obstetric anesthesia, why?

Despite the improvements in obstetrics and obstetric anesthesia, there is a strong movement in the United States to avoid these advances. An analysis of the objections to anesthesia is offered followed by a presentation of evidence that well-conducted analgesia will benefit and protect both mother and newborn infant.
SU‐F‐T‐565: Assessment of Dosimetric Accuracy for a 3D Gel‐Based Dosimetry Service

Purpose: To assess the 3D dosimetric accuracy when using a mail-in service for square and stereotactic fields in a clinical environment. Methods: The 3D dosimetry mail-in service (3DDaaS), offered by Modus QA (London, ON), was used to measure dose distributions from a 6 MV beam of a Varian Clinac. Plastic jars filled with radiosensitive ClearView™ gel were received, CT scanned (for registration and density information), irradiated, and then mailed back to the manufacturer for optical CT readout. Three square field irradiations (2×2, 4×4, and 10×10 cm2) were performed with jars immobilized in a water tank, and a composite small-field stereotactic delivery was performed using an in-air holder. Dosimetric properties of the gel were quantified within the 25–50 Gy dose range using 3D optical attenuation (OA) distributions provided by the manufacturer. OA was normalized to 100% at the position of isocenter, which received 40Gy. Percentage depth dose, profiles, and 3D gamma distributions (3%/1mm criteria) were calculated to quantify feasibility for relative dosimetry. Results: Mean CT-measured density in the central (3×3×3) cm3 gel region was 40 ± 3 HU, indicating good homogeneity and near-water-equivalence. Measured and calculated central axis doses agreed to within ±3% in the 25–50 Gy dose range. For the square field irradiations, dose profiles agreed to within 1mm. Gamma analysis of the composite irradiation yielded 99.8%, 91.4%, and 79.1% passing rates for regions receiving at least 10, 5, and 2 Gy, respectively, indicating feasibility for use in high-dose regions. Absolute response varied by up to 16% between jars, indicating limitations for absolute dosimetry under the mail-in conditions. Conclusion: 3DDaaS is a novel near-water-equivalent dosimetry system accurate to within 3% dose and 1mm 3D spatial resolution, and is straightforward to use in a clinical setting. Future investigations are warranted to improve dosimeter response in low-dose regions. The authors would like to thank ModusQA (London, ON) for providing the gels and optical readouts used this work. This work was partially funded by NIH P01CA059827.
The positive aspects of intersecting religious/spiritual and LGBTQ identities.

Religion and spirituality are positive resources in the lives of many individuals (Pargament, Mahoney, Shafranske, Exline, & Jones, 2013). Although much of the existing research on the intersection of religious/spiritual and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and/or queer (LGBTQ) identities has focused on conflicts in these identities (Fontenot, 2013), a growing number of studies suggests that religious/spiritual LGBTQ people experience positive aspects similar to those emphasized in the general literature. We sought to extend previous findings by asking LGBTQ participants (N = 314) to describe the positive aspects of identifying as both religious/spiritual and LGBTQ. Qualitative analysis revealed that the positive aspects were characterized by 5 themes: (a) Love and Acceptance for one’s LGBTQ identity; (b) Deeper Meaning and Purpose due to having an LGBTQ perspective; (c) Empathy, Openness, and Compassionate Action rooted in LGBTQ identity and a passion to actively live religious/spiritual values; (d) Positive Relationships with families, partners, and communities based in a shared religious/spiritual identity and authentic expression of LGBTQ identity; and (e) Spiritual Strength for coming out and coping with sexual or gender identity stigma and prejudice. Participants’ responses suggest that religious/spiritual and LGBTQ identities interact in ways that synergistically enhance each other and may provide an important source of strength and support that can be mobilized in clinical practice.