cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 24: Thrombus Formation is Impaired in Glutamate Receptor Interacting Protein 1 Deficient Mice

Platelets contribute to the pathogenesis of myocardial infarction and stroke. Understanding mechanisms of platelet activation and thrombus formation may provide new targets for anti-platelet therapies. GRIP1 (glutamate receptor interacting protein 1) is a 7 PDZ domain scaffolding protein which localizes receptors at the membrane in a regulated manner. Previous work has shown that glutamate receptors increase platelet activation through glutamate receptor signaling and we wanted to investigate the regulation of these receptors. In the neuron, GRIP1 regulates surface expression of GluR2, however, GRIP1 KO mice are embryonic lethal due to hemorrhage and hypovolemia indicating severe vascular defects. Endothelial cells do not appear to express GRIP1, therefore, we hypothesize that GRIP1 mediates platelet activation by PDZ domain coordination of protein-protein interactions. We have discovered that GRIP1 is present in mouse and human platelets. To explore the role of GRIP1 in platelets we have created a platelet-specific GRIP1-/- mouse. GRIP1-/- mice have normal platelet counts but significantly decreased thrombus formation (p<0.05) during ferric chloride injury and their bleeding time is significantly longer (p<0.05) in tail bleeding assays. They have no observed spontaneous bleeding or premature death. CD62P and JON/A expression after stimulation with thrombin, 2-meADP, [U46619][1], or convulxin was unchanged compared to WT mice. To determine which protein-protein interactions could be mediating the GRIP1 effects in platelets, we performed IP of GRIP1 and mass spectrometry. GRIP1 showed an association with the GP1b complex. Aggregation after stimulation with thrombin and 2-meADP is also impaired. Ongoing studies will determine whether specific members of the GP1b complex associate with GRIP1 in IP assays, flow chamber adhesion, and botrocetin aggregation to complement our in vivo data. Based on our data, GRIP1 has a central role in platelet thrombus formation through non-glutamate receptor dependent interactions. [1]: /lookup/external-ref?link_type=GEN&access_num=U46619&atom=%2Fatvbaha%2F33%2FSuppl_1%2FA24.atom
Effective active vaccination against methamphetamine in female rats.

Abstract Background Immunotherapies directed against methamphetamine (MA) abuse have shown success in rodent models, however only a limited number of studies have investigated active vaccination in female mice and none in female rats. It is critical to determine if potential immunotherapeutic strategies generalize across sex, particularly for drugs that may produce significant sex-differences on behavioral or physiological endpoints. Methods Female Wistar rats were initially vaccinated with keyhole-limpet hemocyanin (KLH) or an anti-methamphetamine-KLH conjugate (MH6-KLH) three times over five weeks and implanted with radiotelemetry devices to assess locomotor activity and body temperature responses to MA. Rats were first exposed to MA via vapor inhalation (100 mg/mL in propylene glycol) and then by injection (0.25–1.0 mg/kg, i.p.) and vapor after a final vaccine boost. Results The MH6-KLH vaccine generated an increase in antibody titers across the initial 6-week, 3 immunization protocol and a restoration of titer after a week 14 booster. Locomotor stimulation induced by 0.25 mg/kg MA, i.p, in the KLH group was prevented in the MH6-KLH group. MH6-KLH animals also exhibited an attenuated locomotor stimulation produced by 0.5 mg/kg MA, i.p. No group differences in locomotion induced by vapor inhalation of MA were observed and body temperature was not differentially affected by MA across the groups, most likely because vapor inhalation of MA that produced similar locomotor stimulation resulted in ∼10-fold higher plasma MA levels. Conclusions This study confirms the efficacy of the MH6-KLH vaccine in attenuating the effects of MA in female rats.
Sound Intensity Levels of Volume Settings on Cardiovascular Entertainment Systems in a University Wellness Center

As wellness centers across the nation continue to expand and entertain its patrons, a potential serious health issue may become more prevalent. When using the integrated entertainment systems within the cardiovascular equipment, intensity levels are able to reach levels that could contribute to noise-induced hearing loss. This research discovered that volume settings that are a part of the integrated entertainment systems of this equipment can reach intensity levels that exceed a safe listening level. In addition, the manufacturer default volume settings were found to be borderline at safe listening levels. This research identified excessive sound intensity levels at specific volume settings on three different types of cardiovascular equipment. Fitness administrators, professionals in hearing science, and wellness center patrons should collaborate to understand the potential impact for hearing loss when listening to this equipment at excessive sound intensity levels.
Limitations of the point removal method

In the previous chapter, we gave a detailed exposition of the point removal method for constructing locally decodable codes and obtained large improvements upon earlier work. We start with a high-level review of our construction of locally decodable codes via point removal that was given earlier in Chapter 2.
Introduction—Scanning the Symposium

In his revolutionary experiments of 1895, Marconi achieved transmission of coded radio signals over distances up to 2 km. Six years later, he succeeded in the first transmission of telegraphic signals across the Atlantic from Cornwall to Newfoundland. The century that followed has seen the introduction of many new electronic communications services. Broadcast radio and television have dramatically changed our perception and understanding of the world we live in. As we enter the second century, another exciting communication service known as multimedia is emerging, which involves integrated transmission of text, graphics, voice, image, video, and computer data, between individuals, as well as in the broadcast mode.
Physiologic distribution of colony-stimulating factor in vivo

Abstract Purified L-cell colony-stimulating factor (CSF) was iodinated by several techniques and used to determine the physiologic distribution in vivo. Mice were injected i.v. or i.p. with 100,000 cpm; plasma and tissue radioactivity were monitored at intervals up to 6 hr. A complex plasma disappearance curve was observed after i.v. injection. There was a 80%-90% reduction in circulating radioactivity at 4 hr. This resulted from a biphasic pattern, in which the t½ was 24-40 min and 2-2.5 hr in the first and second phases, respectively. Plasma levels of radioactivity were lower following i.p. administration, with peak activity of 10%; this was observed 1 hr after injection. Thereafter, plasma radioactivity declined with a half-life (½) of 3.5 hr. In parallel experiments, clearance of unla-beled partially purified CSF was monitored by radioimmunoassay (RIA). A nearly linear serum disappearance was observed (t½ of 1.5 hr), which approximated the major curve noted with the 125I-CSF. In 4 studies, 6-hr urinary excretion of radioactivity ranged from 14% to 32%. Bilateral nephrectomy did not alter the initial decline in plasma activity but markedly prolonged the second phase (t½ of 5 hr). Despite substantial amounts of radioactivity in the urine, virtually no CSF could be detected by RIA. This suggests that the kidneys may serve a key role in the metabolism and excretion of CSF. These studies show that CSF is rapidly cleared and metabolized. Based on a t½ of 1.5-2.5 hr, in vivo studies will require large repetitive doses of this presumptive granulopoietin.
Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma

Adrenal cortical carcinomas (ACCs) are rare; account for 3 % of endocrine tumors; affect people of all ages, including children; are more common in females; and have an incidence of one per one million patient-years. Up to 49 % of ACCs are functional, with androgen secretion (virilization) and glucocorticoid secretion (Cushing syndrome) common; functional tumors are more frequent in females. ACCs may vary in size (1–30 cm), but usually are large (10–13 cm) and may show necrosis. Rarely, ACCs may be cystic. Differentiating ACC from adenoma may be very difficult; ACCs usually are larger than adenomas. Tumors ≥100 g are particularly worrisome for malignancy; however, tumors less than 100 g have metastasized, and adenomas may weigh more than 100 g. ACCs recapitulate normal cortex but show more diffuse growth and eosinophilic cytoplasm and lack the zonation of normal adrenal cortex. Histologic features of malignancy are vascular invasion, necrosis, fibrous bands, capsular invasion, increased mitotic rate, atypical mitoses, and nuclear pleomorphism.
Preference Prediction Based on Eye Movement Using Multi-layer Combinatorial Fusion

Face image preference is influenced by many factors and can be detected by analyzing eye movement data. When comparing two face images, our gaze shifts within and between the faces. Eye tracking data can give us insights into the cognitive processes involved in forming a preference. In this paper, a gaze tracking dataset is analyzed using three machine learning algorithms (MLA): AdaBoost, Random Forest, and Mixed Group Ranks (MGR) as well as a newly developed machine learning framework called Multi-Layer Combinatorial Fusion (MCF) to predict a subject’s face image preference. Attributes constructed from the dataset are treated as input scoring systems. MCF involves a series of layers that consist of expansion and reduction processes. The expansion process involves performing exhaustive score and rank combinations, while the reduction process uses performance and diversity to select a subset of systems that will be passed onto the next layer of analysis. Performance and cognitive diversity are used in weighted scoring system combinations and system selection. The results outperform the Mixed Group Ranks algorithm, as well as our previous work using pairwise scoring system combinations.
A New Hands-On Course in Characterization of Wide-Bandgap Devices

As wide-bandgap (WBG) devices and applications move from niche to mainstream, a new generation of engineers trained in this area is critical to continue the development of the field. This paper introduces a new hands-on course in characterization of WBG devices, which is an emerging and fundamental topic in WBG-based techniques. First, the lecture–simulation–experiment format based course structure and design considerations, such as safety, are presented. Then, the necessary facilities to support this hands-on course are summarized, including classroom preparation, software tools, and laboratory equipment. Afterward, the detailed course implementation flow is presented to illustrate the approach of close interaction among lecture, simulation, and experiment to maximize students’ learning outcomes. Finally, grading for students and course evaluation by students are discussed, highlighting the findings and potential improvements. Detailed course materials are provided via potenntial.eecs.utk.edu/WBGLab for educational use.
POST CARDIAC TRANSPLANTATION, REJECTION VERSUS INFECTION, CAN BE A CHALLENGE

Invasive tracheobronchial Aspergillosis, serious clinical condition associated with solid organ transplant patients, is less well described in heart transplant patients. We describe a rare case of invasive aspergillus infection involving central airways in a heart transplant patient. 72 year old
Further Examples Related to the Identical Distribution of X/(X+Y) and Y/(X+Y)

The study of conditions under which a two-dimensional random variable (X, Y) will have the property that X/(X+Y)=dY/(X+Y) was initiated by Bhattacharjee and Dhar. Some additional perhaps unexpected...
Structural and Mechanistic Insights into CO2 Activation by Nitrogenase Iron Protein

The Fe protein of nitrogenase catalyzes the ambient reduction of CO2 when its cluster is present in the all-ferrous, [Fe4 S4 ]0 oxidation state. Here, we report a combined structural and theoretical study that probes the unique reactivity of the all-ferrous Fe protein toward CO2 . Structural comparisons of the Azotobacter vinelandii Fe protein in the [Fe4 S4 ]0 and [Fe4 S4 ]+ states point to a possible asymmetric functionality of a highly conserved Arg pair in CO2 binding and reduction. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations provide further support for the asymmetric coordination of O by the "proximal" Arg and binding of C to a unique Fe atom of the all-ferrous cluster, followed by donation of protons by the proximate guanidinium group of Arg that eventually results in the scission of a C-O bond. These results provide important mechanistic and structural insights into CO2 activation by a surface-exposed, scaffold-held [Fe4 S4 ] cluster.
TCT-620 The Association Between Long-Term Worsening Renal Function and Mortality After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease

Patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with baseline renal impairment have poorer outcomes. Worsening renal function immediately and within 30 days after TAVR portends worse outcomes. We sought to evaluate outcomes in patients with worsening renal function at 3 to 6 months
Reticulate Evolution Helps Explain Apparent Homoplasy in Floral Biology and Pollination in Baobabs (Adansonia; Bombacoideae; Malvaceae)

Baobabs (Adansonia) are a cohesive group of tropical trees with a disjunct distribution in Australia, Madagascar, and continental Africa, and diverse flowers associated with two pollination modes. We used custom-targeted sequence capture in conjunction with new and existing phylogenetic comparative methods to explore the evolution of floral traits and pollination systems while allowing for reticulate evolution. Our analyses suggest that relationships in Adansonia are confounded by reticulation, with network inference methods supporting at least one reticulation event. The best supported hypothesis involves introgression between Adansonia rubrostipa and core Longitubae, both of which are hawkmoth pollinated with yellow/red flowers, but there is also some support for introgression between the African lineage and Malagasy Brevitubae, which are both mammal-pollinated with white flowers. New comparative methods for phylogenetic networks were developed that allow maximum-likelihood inference of ancestral states and were applied to study the apparent homoplasy in floral biology and pollination mode seen in Adansonia. This analysis supports a role for introgressive hybridization in morphological evolution even in a clade with highly divergent and geographically widespread species. Our new comparative methods for discrete traits on species networks are implemented in the software PhyloNetworks. [Comparative methods; Hyb-Seq; introgression; network inference; population trees; reticulate evolution; species tree inference; targeted sequence capture.].
Beyond the Campus: How Do Academic Institutions Contribute to Conversations in Contemporary Society?

A keynote address at the “Legacy and Mission: Theological Education and the History of Slavery” conference held at Princeton Seminary, April 8–9, 2019.
Target of Rapamycin in Control of Autophagy: Puppet Master and Signal Integrator

The target of rapamycin (TOR) is an evolutionarily-conserved serine/threonine kinase that senses and integrates signals from the environment to coordinate developmental and metabolic processes. TOR senses nutrients, hormones, metabolites, and stress signals to promote cell and organ growth when conditions are favorable. However, TOR is inhibited when conditions are unfavorable, promoting catabolic processes such as autophagy. Autophagy is a macromolecular degradation pathway by which cells degrade and recycle cytoplasmic materials. TOR negatively regulates autophagy through phosphorylation of ATG13, preventing activation of the autophagy-initiating ATG1-ATG13 kinase complex. Here we review TOR complex composition and function in photosynthetic and non-photosynthetic organisms. We also review recent developments in the identification of upstream TOR activators and downstream effectors of TOR. Finally, we discuss recent developments in our understanding of the regulation of autophagy by TOR in photosynthetic organisms.
Ecdysone signaling promotes expression of multifunctional RNA binding proteins essential for ovarian germline stem cell self-renewal in Drosophila

ABSTRACT Steroid hormones promote stem cell self-renewal in many tissues; however, the molecular mechanisms by which hormone signaling is integrated with niche-derived signals are largely uncharacterized. In the Drosophila ovary, the steroid hormone ecdysone promotes germline stem cell (GSC) self-renewal. Despite strong evidence that ecdysone modulates the reception of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signals in GSCs, transcriptional targets of ecdysone signaling that facilitate BMP reception are unknown. Here, we report that ecdysone signaling promotes the expression of the heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs) squid, hephaestus, Hrb27C, and Hrb87F in GSCs. These hnRNPs functionally interact with ecdysone signaling to control GSC number and are cell autonomously required in GSCs for their maintenance. We demonstrate that hnRNPs promote GSC self-renewal by binding to transcripts essential for proper BMP signaling, including the BMP receptors thickveins and punt. Our findings support the model that stem cells coordinate local and long-range signals at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels to maintain self-renewal in response to physiological demand. SUMMARY STATEMENT Ecdysone signaling promotes expression of heterogeneous ribonucleoproteins that modulate BMP-dependent germline stem cell self-renewal in the Drosophila ovary.
Numerical Analysis in Enhancement of Heat Transfer Using Extended Surfaces

Attempts is being made on developing more advanced and effective techniques for the dissipation of heat in electronic and microelectronic equipment. It is still a main challenge to increase the cooling efficiency by increasing a heat dissipation rate for the performance of microelectronic equipment. The present study deals with a computational numerical analysis of compact heat exchangers, used for the dissipation of heat generated by electrical and electronic components under forced convection. The analysis was done by k- $\omega$ model based with shear-stress transport (SST), low Reynolds no. correction to calculate the heat transfer in turbulent flow for inlet velocities ranging from 1 m/s - 6 m/s. To access the increase heat transfer, first the results were validated using experimental data previously conducted by Kai-Shing Yang et al [1] and then the geometry was modified by attaching 9 semi-spherical shapes on each fin. Staggered arrangement of pin fins is used for effective heat transfer. The performance of pin fins was analyzed for a series of frontal velocities ranging from 1-6m/s in a 470mm long fluid domain. The constant amount of 25W heat at base plate was supplied. It is found that the optimum configuration of pin fins using semi-spherical profiles on it significantly increased the heat transfer in terms of heat transfer co-efficient with the negligible amount of pressure lost across the pin fins. This study suggest that the new model used possess the higher heat transferability and a proper mixing of air in pin fins.
Scalable quorum-based deep neural networks with adversarial learning for automated lung lobe segmentation in fast helical free-breathing CTs.

Fast helical free-breathing CT (FHFBCT) scans are widely used for 5DCT and 5D Cone Beam imaging protocols. For quantitative analysis of lung physiology and function, it is important to segment the lung lobes in these scans. Since the 5DCT protocols use up to 25 FHFBCT scans, it is important that this segmentation task be automated. In this paper, we present a deep neural network (DNN) framework for segmenting the lung lobes in near real time. A total of 22 patient datasets (550 3D CT scans) were used for the study. Each of the lung lobes was manually segmented and considered ground-truth. A supervised and constrained generative adversarial network (CGAN) was employed for learning each set of lobe segmentations for each patient with 12 patients designated for training data. The resulting generator DNNs represented the lobe segmentations for each training dataset. A quorum-based algorithm was then implemented to test validation data consisting of 10 separate patient datasets (250 3D CTs). Each of the DNNs predicted their corresponding lobes for the validation data, and equal weights were given to the 12 generator CGANs. The quorum process worked by selecting the weighted average result of all 12 CGAN results for each lobe. When evaluated against ground-truth segmentations, the quorum-based lobe segmentation was observed to have average structural similarity index, normalized cross-correlation coefficient, and dice coefficient values of 0.929, 0.806, and 0.814, respectively, compared to values of 0.911, 0.698, and 0.696, respectively, using a conventional strategy. The proposed quorum-based approach computed segmentations with clinically acceptable accuracy in near real time using a multi-GPU-based computing setup. This method is scalable as more patient-specific CGANs can be added to the quorum over time.
Interaction of Interleukin-2 with its Cell Surface Receptors: Interpretation of Equilibrium Binding Experiments via Scatchard Plots

The high affinity receptor for interleukin 2 (IL-2) is composed of at least two chains, a p55 chain that binds IL-2 with low affinity and a p75 chain that binds with intermediate affinity. Two molecular mechanisms have been proposed for the formation of the high affinity receptor-ligand complex. The affinity conversion model proposed by Honjo and coworkers (Saito et al., 1988) suggests that the high affinity receptor is formed via stepwise binding reactions in which IL-2 first binds to the p55 chain and the resulting complex then associates with the p75 chain to form a high affinity ternary complex. In the preformed heterodimer model the p55 and p75 chains form a non-covalently linked high affinity heterodimer in the absence of IL-2. We analyze these models theoretically and show that they can be distinguished on the basis of equilibrium binding experiments using cell lines expressing different numbers of p55 chains. We show that published IL-2 binding studies are consistent with a model in which a large concentration of preformed heterodimers is present on the cell surface and inconsistent with a model in which preformed heterodimers are absent from the cell surface.
The intermediary metabolism of the non-benzenoid steroid hormones.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the intermediary metabolism of the androgens, the progestins, and steroids of the adrenal cortex. The androgens can originate from three endocrine glands. The major influence on the secondary sex characters of the normal male is the secretion of the testes. The changes in the steroid hormones that lead to the relatively inactive metabolic products excreted in the urine are not primarily connected with hormonal action in the target organs but are largely, if not entirely, limited to the liver and kidneys. The liver plays by far the major role. It would appear that these processes are involved largely in regulating the blood level in relation to varying production and need. They have become more complex as the organism has become more independent of the external environment. The reactions involved in the metabolism of the non-benzenoid steroid hormones appear to be largely reductive, particularly in ring A and on the side chain.
Hip and upper extremity kinematics in youth baseball pitchers

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between dynamic hip rotational range of motion and upper extremity kinematics during baseball pitching. Thirty-one youth baseball pitchers (10.87 ± 0.92 years; 150.03 ± 5.48 cm; 44.83 ± 8.04 kg) participated. A strong correlation was found between stance hip rotation and scapular upward rotation at maximum shoulder external rotation (r = 0.531, P = 0.002) and at ball release (r = 0.536, P = 0.002). No statistically significant correlations were found between dynamic hip rotational range of motion and passive hip range of motion. Hip range of motion deficits can constrain pelvis rotation and limit energy generation in the lower extremities. Shoulder pathomechanics can then develop as greater responsibility is placed on the shoulder to generate the energy lost from the proximal segments, increasing risk of upper extremity injury. Additionally, it appears that passive seated measurements of hip range of motion may not accurately reflect the dy...
Comparative analysis of work force management techniques between Lean and traditional manufacturing companies: A quantitative decision tool for choosing between layoffs and continual improvement

The Toyota Production System (TPS) has long touted the workforce management technique of continual improvement in the face of economic downturns. This is counter to a more general approach of short-term and long-term layoffs in manufacturing, associated with more traditionally managed companies. This paper builds a quantitative decision tool for choosing between layoffs and continual process-based improvement associated with a TPS or Lean manufacturing strategy. The model is then used with typical automotive manufacturing data to determine key productivity variables and their effect on net present value of the management decisions associated with either strategy. The main economic drivers of the model focus on the productivity of the employees and the duration of the shutdown, or revenue gap, associated with the company. The model quickly demonstrates crossover points that identify clear management horizons for planed and unplanned shutdowns, and at which point the two strategies cross value, thus defining the timeframe in which they are the winning strategy.
Relating the JPL VLBI Reference Frame and the Planetary Ephemerides

A series of VLBI observations of planet-orbiting spacecraft and angularly nearby quasars has provided an estimate of the relative orientation of the JPL VLBI reference frame and the ephemeris frame of the inner planets. We find the two frames to be coincident in both right ascension and declination to less than 20 milliarcseconds (mas).
Digital subtraction for noise reduction in intravascular ultrasound data

Intravascular ultrasound data (IVUD) is susceptible to noise degradation from a variety of sources. In an in-vitro study, the potential of digital subtraction (DS) techniques to reduce image noise from IVUD is examined. A 20 MHz, rotating-transducer catheter was used to collect images of vascular phantoms immersed in canine blood, and images of blood only using the same instrumentation settings. Images were digitized and subtracted using a simple mask-mode algorithm. First-order gray-scale (GS) histogram statistics were computed on all image data. GS standard deviation and GS standard deviation normalized to mean GS were used as the primary measures of artificial noise. Statistical comparison of the image sets revealed significantly lower noise content in difference image data than in the initial image sets. This preliminary study indicates that DS may be an effective way to enhance interpretation of IVUD. >
Kinetics of Factor Xa Inhibition by Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor

Tissue factor pathway inhibitor is a multivalent, Kunitz-type proteinase inhibitor. It directly inhibits factor Xa and, in a factor Xa-dependent fashion, produces feedback inhibition of the factor VIIa/tissue factor catalytic complex which is responsible for the initiation of coagulation. Human recombinant TFPI (rTFPI) produced in Escherichia coli was used to define the kinetic constants describing the human factor Xa:TFPI interaction. The inactivation of factor Xa by E. coli-rTFPI is indistinguishable from that of rTFPI produced in mammalian SK-hepatoma cells, suggesting that post-translational modifications such as glycosylation and phosphorylation do not play a major role in the inhibitory process. The slow, tight-binding inhibition of factor Xa follows the scheme: [formula: see text] Where the enzyme (E) and inhibitor (I) form an initial, immediate collision complex (EI) that then isomerizes slowly to a tightened final EI* complex. In the absence of other additions, the initial Ki (=k2/k1) and final Ki* for the inhibition of factor Xa by E. coli-rTFPI are 1.24 nM and 26.4 pM, respectively. In the presence of calcium ions (5 mM) the interaction between factor Xa and rTFPI is substantially weaker, with a Ki of 42.7 nM and Ki* of 85.2 pM. The addition of other components of the prothrombinase complex produces enhanced factor Xa inhibition predominantly through an effect on the initial Ki. In the presence of calcium ions and saturating concentrations of phospholipids and factor Va, the Ki and Ki* for factor Xa inactivation are 2.04 nM and 52.3 pM. The enhancing effect of heparin on the inhibitory process is concentration dependent and exhibits an optimum, reminiscent of the "template" model for heparin's acceleration of thrombin and factor IXa inhibition by antithrombin III. At optimal concentrations, the major mechanism of heparin action is also a reduction in the Ki of the initial encounter complex between factor Xa and rTFPI.
Automobiles: The Old Economy Collides with the New

The U.S. automobile industry is beginning to confront the next major technology – the internet. Business-to-business manufacturing systems and supply exchanges, together with business-to-consumer ordering and purchase systems, all have the potential to bring great efficiencies to this traditional industry. But each of these innovations raises new competitive issues. Internet ordering will greatly diminish the role of conventional dealers, who have thus far blunted its impact. B2B exchanges raise concerns about buyer power and other competitive effects. This paper outlines and analyzes these internet-drivenchanges and their competitive implications for the industry, its dealers, suppliers, and customers.
Research Spotlight: Iron oxide observed in Earth's airglow

[1] The Earth's night airglow, a weak emission of light caused by chemical reactions in the planet's atmosphere, has been studied for more than a century. Because iron is common in meteorites that deposit debris in Earth's atmosphere, it was expected that iron oxide (FeO) would be found in the airglow, but it had not been detected until now. Evans et al. report observations made using the Optical Spectrograph and Infrared Imager System (OSIRIS) on the Odin spacecraft that show orange bands at about 600 nanometers in the night airglow spectrum. Comparison with published laboratory measurements of FeO emission spectra indicate that the observed orange bands in the airglow are probably due to FeO. The researchers suggest that the orange-band FeO emission is probably produced through interactions of iron with ozone in the atmosphere. (Geophysical Research Letters, doi:10.1029/2010GL045310, 2010)
Simulation of Patellofemoral Joint Reconstruction Surgery on Patient-Specific Models

The outcome of patellofemoral joint reconstructive surgery has been found to be variable. This study presents patient-specific models of the patellofemoral joints of 13 patients diagnosed with osteoarthritis. The model is a mathematical model using quasi-static equilibrium analysis and the model inputs are patient data is acquired from a combination of two series of magnetic resonance images. Four tibial tuberosity transfer surgeries are simulated for each patient, namely: 15 mm anterior shift, 20 mm anterior shift, 8 mm anterior along with 8 mm medial shift, and 15 mm anterior along with 8 mm medial shift. The simulated surgeries produced a statistically significant decrease in mean contact stress relative to pre-surgical conditions (p=0.004), though no statistical difference was found between the different procedures. No one procedure consistently demonstrated the best outcome for all patients. In fact, certain surgical procedures increased peak stresses in some subjects while decreasing it in others. With the demonstrated variability of outcome, the utility of the model presented for surgical planning becomes apparent.
TEMPERATURE-SENSITIVE MUTANTS BLOCKED IN THE FOLDING OR SUBUNIT ASSMBLY OF THE BACTERIOPHAGE P22 TAILSPIKE PROTEIN. I. FINE-STRUCTURE MAPPING

As part of a study of protein folding, we have constructed a fine-structure map of 9 existing and 29 newly isolated UV- and hydroxylamine-induced temperature-sensitive (ts) mutations in gene 9 of Salmonella bacteriophage P22. Gene 9 specifies the polypeptide chain of the multimeric tail spikes, six of which form the cell attachment organelle of the phage. The 38 ts mutants were mapped against deletion lysogens with endpoints in gene 9. They mapped in 10 of the 15 deletion intervals. Two- and three-factor crosses between mutants within each interval indicated that at least 31 ts sites are represented among the 38 mutants. To determine the distribution of ts sites within the physical map, we identified the protein fragments from infection of su- hosts with 10 gene 9 amber mutants. Their molecular weights, ranging from 13,900 to 55,000 daltons, were combined with the genetic data to yield a composite map of gene 9. The 31 ts sites were distributed through most of the gene, but were most densely clustered in the central third.—None of the ts mutant pairs tested exhibited intragenic complementation. Studies of the defective phenotypes of the ts mutants (Goldenberg and King 1981; Smith and King 1981) revealed that most do not affect the thermostability of the mature protein, but instead prevent the folding or subunit assembly of the mutant chains synthesized at restrictive temperature. Thus, many of thes ts mutations identify sites in the polypeptide chain that are critical for the folding or maturation of the tail-spike protein.
Enterprise resource planning: the emerging organizational value systems

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) is a set of applications that automate finance and human resource departments and help manufacturers handle jobs such as order processing and production scheduling. This paper attempts to provide an overview of an ERP system along with the real experiences of its implementation. Reports results of a survey of several ERP companies and considers factors such as future trends in ERP including developments such as Web‐based procurement applications and outsourcing of ERP applications. Suggests some challenges for ERP, such as the need to ensure global compatibility and flexibility.
Response to Comment on “Atmospheric Pco2 Perturbations Associated with the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province”

Rampino and Caldeira argue that the first pulse of the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province would increase the concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide ( P co 2 ) by only 400 parts per million if erupted over 20,000 years, whereas we observed a doubling within this interval. In the absence of any data to the contrary, we suggest that a more rapid (≤1000-year) eruption is sufficient to explain this observation without relying on thermogenic degassing.
Diet Composition and Lipids of In Vitro-Produced Heterorhabditis bacteriophora

Abstract Several entomopathogenic nematode species are currently under evaluation for mass production and field efficacy for biological control of insect pests. However, quality and quantity of in vitro -produced entomopathogenic nematodes vary considerably, depending on media, temperature, and production method. In addition, nematode production should be cost effective. We investigated nematode yield, production time, total lipid content, and fatty acid composition of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora produced in artificial media supplemented with different lipid sources. Lipid source significantly affected lipid quantity and quality in H. bacteriophora. Media supplemented with extractable insect lipids produced yields 1.9 times higher than did beef fat- or lard-supplemented media. Moreover, the developmental rate in media supplemented with host lipids was 1.7 times faster than that in media supplemented with beef fat or lard. Nematodes grown in media supplemented with insect lipids accumulated significantly higher lipid proportion per dry biomass than those grown in media supplemented with other lipid sources. H. bacteriophora produced in media supplemented with insect lipids, olive oil, or canola oil had similar fatty acid patterns, with oleic (18:1) acid as the major lipid fatty acid. Media supplemented with other lipid sources produced nematodes with fatty acid patterns different from those of media supplemented with insect lipids. We recommend addition of fatty acid mixtures that resemble natural host lipids for mass-producing entomopathogenic nematodes. This could provide nematode quality similar to in vivo -produced nematodes and could improve yield.
Adding Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Data to a Melting Point and Thin-Layer Chromatography Laboratory

The addition of gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) data interpretation to a thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and melting point (mp) laboratory for an introductory organic course is described. Students are given a sample containing one unknown and a list of 24 unknown compounds, organized in groups by similar mp ranges. Students identify the unknown through mp and TLC. Students are then given GC–MS data containing three unknowns and are asked to determine GC peak corresponding to their unknown using the MS spectra. Upon completion of the laboratory, students have gained an understanding of how many components are present given GC–MS data and how to identify each component from the molecular ion. They also become familiar with the physical characteristics of melting point, retention factor, and retention time. These skills are utilized in other experiments throughout the academic year.
Genocide and Atrocity Crimes

The term “genocide” has been commonly used, particularly in political dialogue, to describe atrocities of great diversity, magnitude, and character. Yet the prospect of the term's arising in policy making too often imposes an intimidating brake on effective responses. The political use of the term should be separated from its legal definition as a crime of individual responsibility. Governments and international organizations should be liberated to apply the term “genocide” more readily within a political context so as to publicly describe precursors of genocide and react rapidly either to prevent or to stop mass killings or other seeming acts of genocide. They should not be constrained from acting by the necessity of a prior legal finding that the crime of genocide in fact has occurred or is occurring and, once that legal finding has been made, that governments are somehow obligated to use military force in response. There also is a critical need for a new term—“atrocity crimes”—and a new field of intern...
Changes in expression of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor subunits occur early in the R6/2 mouse model of Huntington's disease

A leading hypothesis of the cause of neuronal death in Huntington’s disease (HD) is excitotoxicity, in which subpopulations of striatal neurons are hypersensitive to glutamate release due to changes in postsynaptic N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs). In the present study we used RT-PCR methods on single cells and tissue to compare the expression of NMDAR subunits, NR1, NR2A and NR2B, in the striatum of R6/2 transgenic mice with their wild-type (WT) littermates at three different age groups corresponding to different symptomatic milestones (19–25 days showing no overt evidence of abnormal behavior, 38–45 days at the onset of the overt phenotype and 78–90 days displaying the full behavioral phenotype). Single-cell RT-PCR studies also examined neurons for the expression of substance P and enkephalin to define different subpopulations of medium-sized projection neurons of the striatum. The results showed a significant decrease in the percentage of cells expressing NR2A at all ages examined. The decrease in expression was not associated with any significant change in expression of NR1 or NR2B. Cells that did not express NR2A contained both enkephalin and substance P, but proportionately more cells containing enkephalin displayed decreases in NR2A. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR studies on striatal tissue in the oldest age group confirmed the significant decrease in NR2A and also showed a decrease in NR2B. These results support the hypothesis that changes in the composition of postsynaptic NMDARs occur in the R6/2 model of HD and this effect occurs early in the expression of the phenotype.
Child Psychiatric Patients Who Share a Bed with a Parent

This is a retrospective clinical study by chart review of child psychi atric patients and their parents who sleep in the same bed. We review the literature, describe the phenomenology of the behavior, and attempt to understand the behavior from the child's and parent's point of view. This study provides possible clinical hypoth eses when the information is given that child and parent share a bed, and offers empirical and theoretical justification for these hy" potheses. .
Strength Correlation of High Performance Concrete Using Different Sized Specimens

The length to diameter ratio (L/d) of cylindrical concrete specimens is the main factor that affects the compressive strength of concrete. A total of more than 200 molded and cored high performance concrete cylinders of 100- and 150-mm diameters with various L/d ratios were tested to failure at 28 and 105 days. The results confirmed that the concrete strength varies significantly not only with the L/d ratio, but also with the curing method, core location, and specimen size. The current ASTM Standards C 39 and C 42 correction factors underestimate the strength test results in some cases and overestimate the results in other cases, which dictate the need for revising the ASTM correction factors for the high performance concrete. Based on a nonlinear regression analysis of the test results, strength correction factors for each specimen type were presented in figures and tables along with the correction factors provided by the ASTM standards.
Subunit E of mitochondrial ATP synthase: a bioinformatic analysis reveals a phosphopeptide binding motif supporting a multifunctional regulatory role and identifies a related human brain protein with the same motif.

The mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthase is located in the inner membrane and consists of at least 16 subunit types in animals, one of which is subunit e, the function of which is not clearly defined. A highly homologous protein is located in the nucleus and named progesterone receptor binding protein (RBF), to designate its role in this organelle. In addition, the expression level of subunit e in mammalian cells fluctuates greatly and is induced by certain carcinogens and elevated in liver cancers. Because these previous observations suggested to us that subunit e may play multifunctional regulatory roles, we employed a bioinformatic approach to test this view. First, from sequence alignment studies, secondary structure analyses, and basic local alignment search tool (BLAST) searches, we concluded that mitochondrial subunit e and the homologous nuclear protein RBF are most likely the same protein. Second, we examined the known sequence and structure of one of the most common multifunctional cell regulatory proteins, the 14-3-3 protein, involved in phosphopeptide binding, and deduced that it has an apparent binding motif (-KX(6)R---RY-). Third, from careful examination of the conserved residues within all subunit e sequences in the database, we discovered that this protein has a comparable binding motif (-RY---KX(6)R-). Finally, in a BLAST search for additional homologs of subunit e, we found a human brain protein, KIAA1578, the C-terminal 30 amino acids of which are identical to those of human subunit e. This protein also contains a potential phosphopeptide binding motif. In summary, these studies provide support for the view that subunit e is a multifunctional cell regulator involved in cell signaling, and implicate the involvement of the KIAA1578 protein in cell signaling as well. These studies suggest also that, while functioning as a subunit of mitochondrial ATP synthases, subunit e may help regulate these complexes by binding to phosphopeptides within one or more of the other subunit types.
Discharge knowledge and concerns of patients going home with a wound.

Purpose To examine patients' wound care knowledge and concerns prior to discharge from an acute care hospital. Design Comparative descriptive study of patients with wounds. Setting and subjects Participants (N = 76) included 17 men and 59 women who were African American (n = 33, 43.4%) or Caucasian (n = 43, 56.6%) and ranged in age from 20 to 83 years (M = 48, SD = 13). There were 67 persons with acute wounds and 9 with chronic wounds. All were scheduled to be discharged home from a large urban acute care hospital. Instruments The questionnaire for this study included the following sections: Demographic, Admission and Discharge, Health, Wound Care, Beliefs about Wounds and their Care, Pain and Wounds, Literacy and Learning, and Discharge Concerns. Results Participants' greatest concerns about going home were: (1) how active to be at home, (2) wound pain, (3) looking for wound complications, and (4) watching for wound infection. Many participants did not know the dressing (38.2%) or solution to cleanse the wound (58.7%) at home. Most had taken care of a wound before (67.1%), could see (68.4%) and reach (69.7%) the wound, and had looked at it (64.5%) during the hospitalization. Patients with acute and chronic wounds did not differ significantly in their concerns about their wound or their fear of taking care of their wound. Participants generally had appropriate knowledge about wounds and hand washing, nutrition, going out of the home, and cigarette smoking. They had incorrect information about drying out wounds and leaving them open to breathe the air. The majority of patients with chronic wounds preferred getting answers to questions about their wound and its care from their physician followed by their clinic and family/friends. Patients with acute wounds overwhelmingly chose their physician as a source of information about their wound and its care, followed by calling a nurse at the hospital and using the Internet. Conclusions Patients were able to verbalize their concerns about going home with a wound. Concerns about discharge may help to direct patient teaching in preparation for discharge. Teaching literature could include the most common concerns, as well as ways to avoid misinformation about wound care. Discharge teaching needs to begin early so that patients feel they have adequate time to learn and ask questions. Further research is needed about patients' wound care knowledge and discharge concerns.
SOME COMMENTS ON “A SYSTEMS PERSPECTIVE ON MATERIALS REQUIREMENTS PLANNING”*

We believe there are some serious deficiencies in the Morecroft article on MRP problems which appeared in a recent issue of this journal. The article, at the most, shows that MRP, inappropriately imposed on an existing production system, can result in undesirable system performance. This does not represent a new or startling conclusion. Four problem areas in the article are discussed, and suggested alternative approaches are offered.