cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Olfactory physiology in the Drosophila antenna and maxillary palp: acj6 distinguishes two classes of odorant pathways.

This article provides characterization of the electrical response to odorants in the Drosophila antenna and provides physiological evidence that a second organ, the maxillary palp, also has olfactory function in Drosophila. The acj6 mutation, previously isolated by virtue of defective olfactory behavior, affects olfactory physiology in the maxillary palp as well as in the antenna. Interestingly, abnormal chemosensory jump 6 (acj6) reduces response in the maxillary palp to all odorants tested except benzaldehyde (odor of almond), as if response to benzaldehyde is mediated through a different type of odorant pathway from the other odorants. In other experiments, different parts of the antenna are shown to differ with respect to odorant sensitivity. Evidence is also provided that antennal response to odorants varies with age, and that odorants differ in their age dependence. © 1992 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Mathematics Teaching as a Deliberate Practice: An Investigation of Elementary Pre-service Teachers' Reflective Thinking During Student Teaching

In this case study I examine the reflectivepractices of two elementary pre-serviceteachers during their student teachinginternship. I extend current views ofreflective practice to create a framework for a`deliberate practitioner'. With this framework,I investigate the pre-service teachers'thinking with regard to reflective processesand how they use their pedagogical contentknowledge in their practices. My findingsindicate that the pre-service teachers usetheir pedagogical content knowledge inanticipating problematic events, and inreflecting on problematic events ininstruction. However, limits in pedagogicalcontent knowledge and lack of confidence impedethe pre-service teachers' reflection while inthe act of teaching. They were more likely toreflect on their practices outside of the actof teaching. Implications for teacher educatorsand pre-service teachers are discussed.
In Situ Observation of the Nucleation and Growth of CdSe Nanocrystals

An in situ method is introduced for the study of nucleation and growth of crystals using the size-dependent properties of a given system in the transition size regime from molecular species to bulk sized crystals. The real-time measurements for the first system studied, a CdSe one, were carried out by recording the absorption spectra during the reaction with a millisecond resolution.
Approximation by complex Bernstein-Schurer and Kantorovich-Schurer polynomials in compact disks

In this paper, the order of simultaneous approximation and Voronovskaja-type results with quantitative estimate for complex Bernstein-Schurer and Kantorovich-Schurer polynomials attached to analytic functions on compact disks are obtained. In this way, we put in evidence the overconvergence phenomenon for the Bernstein-Schurer polynomials, namely the extensions of approximation properties (with quantitative estimates) from real intervals to compact disks in the complex plane.
Applying the Successional Weed Management Model for Revegetating a Yellow Starthistle-Infested Dryland Pasture in the Chihuahuan Desert

A three-year study was conducted in the Chihuahuan Desert in Southwestern New Mexico to evaluate the effectiveness of revegetating a dryland pasture that was heavily infested with yellow starthistle within the context of the successional weed management model. A prescribed burn treatment of the entire study site (designed disturbance) was followed by single-entry revegetation (controlled colonization) and weed suppression (controlled species performance) treatments. Four native perennial grass species were paired with 4 yellow starthistle suppression treatments. We conclude that an integrated, single-entry approach failed to effectively revegetate yellow starthistle-infested dryland pasture in the Chihuahuan Desert, primarily due to a historic severe drought that occurred soon after grasses were seeded. Different strategies and tactics will be required to manage yellow starthistle in the Southwestern USA than have been previously applied in other areas.
Bivalvular endocarditis due to Granulicatella adiacens.

Patient: Male, 50 Final Diagnosis: Bivalvular endocarditis due to Granulicatella adiacens Symptoms: Fever • fatigue Medication: — Clinical Procedure: Echocardiogram • valve replacement surgery Specialty: Infectious Diseases Objective: Rare disease
Acute fasting decreases sexual receptivity and neural estrogen receptor-α in female rats

Acute food deprivation or chronic food restriction suppresses reproduction in female mammals. Although a link between undernutrition and ovarian function is well established in rats, a similar link with reproductive behavior in this species is yet to be described. Therefore, we compared the display of estrous behaviors induced by exogenous steroid hormone treatment in ovariectomized fed and fasted rats. In addition, estrogen receptor-α immunoreactivity (ERIR) was measured in fed and fasted animals to determine whether changes in behavior were associated with changes in the number of detectable ERIR-containing cells in several brain regions. Fasting for 74 h decreased lordosis quotients (LQ) and lordosis ratings (LR) in ovariectomized, steroid-primed rats. The number of detectable ERIR cells decreased after a 74-h fast in the mid-region of the arcuate (ARC), paraventricular (PVN) and ventromedial nuclei of the hypothalamus (VMH) and the ventral bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST) but did not change in a number of other areas examined. Taken together, these data demonstrate that, similar to the effect on the reproductive-endocrine axis, food deprivation for 74 h suppresses steroid-induced display of lordosis in adult, female rats. Furthermore, this suppression in sexual receptivity is associated with a decrease in ERIR in a number of areas, including the VMH, a region of the hypothalamus known to be critical for the display of reproductive behaviors in female rats.
Photoelectron spectroscopy of sodium iodide clusters containing single hydroxyl ions or water molecules

We have obtained photoelectron spectra of mixed clusters $(\mathrm{NaI}{)}_{n}{\mathrm{Na}}_{m}{\mathrm{OH}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ $(n=2,3, m=1,2,3)$ and $(\mathrm{NaI}{)}_{n}{\mathrm{H}}_{2}{\mathrm{O}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ $(n=3,4,6).$ Comparison with results obtained for pure sodium iodide clusters provides a microscopic view of the initial stages of the solvation process. We find that an $(\mathrm{NaI}{)}_{n}{\mathrm{Na}}_{m}{\mathrm{OH}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ cluster incorporates the ${\mathrm{OH}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ ion in the same way it would an ${\mathrm{I}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ ion, whereas an $(\mathrm{NaI}{)}_{n}{\mathrm{H}}_{2}{\mathrm{O}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ cluster appears to accommodate its intact water molecule on the edge of its ionic lattice.
Food availability controls the onset of metamorphosis in the dung beetle Onthophagus taurus (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)

In nature, larvae of the dung beetle Onthophagus taurus (Schreber 1759) are confronted with significant variation in the availability of food without the option of locating new resources. Here we explore how variation in feeding conditions during the final larval instar affects larval growth and the timing of pupation. We found that larvae respond to food deprivation with a reduction in the length of the instar and premature pupation, leading to the early eclosion of a small adult. To achieve pupation, larvae required access to food for at least the first 5 days of the final instar (= 30% of mean third-instar duration in control individuals), and had to exceed a weight of 0.08 g (= 58% of mean peak weight in control individuals). Larvae that were allowed to feed longer exhibited higher pupation success, but increased larval weight at the time of food deprivation did not result in increased pupation success except for larvae weighing > 0.14 g. Larvae responded to food deprivation by initiating and undergoing the same sequence of developmental events, requiring the same amount of time, as ad libitum-fed larvae once those had reached their natural peak weight. Our results reveal a striking degree of flexibility in the dynamics and timing of larval development in O. taurus. They also suggest that premature exhaustion of a larva's food supply can serve as a cue for the initiation of metamorphosis. Premature metamorphosis in response to food deprivation has been documented in amphibians, but this is, to the best of our knowledge, the first time such a behaviour has been documented for a holometabolous insect. We discuss our findings in the context of the natural history and behavioural ecology of onthophagine beetles.
Measuring dimensions of posttraumatic stress disorder: the Iowa traumatic response inventory.

Researchers have suggested that the symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) should be divided into the four dimensions of intrusions, avoidance, numbing or dysphoria, and hyperarousal. However, the clinical utility of a dysphoria/general distress symptom dimension is unclear, and measures of the overall structure of PTSD are limited by the small number of avoidance and prototypical hyperarousal symptoms in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The Iowa Traumatic Response Inventory (ITRI) was created as a broader measure of symptoms related to PTSD. The factor analytic method of test construction was used to create the scales from a larger pool of items. The measure was validated in a clinical sample and in a student sample. Analysis of the ITRI symptom dimensions suggests traumatic intrusions and avoidance symptoms are highly associated and are specific to PTSD, whereas dysphoria, hyperarousal, and dissociation are not specific to PTSD. Overall, the ITRI was found to be...
In utero arterial embolism from renal vein thrombosis with successful postnatal thrombolytic therapy.

Abstract Thromboembolic events in the pediatric age group occur most commonly in neonates, and newborns of diabetic mothers are particularly at risk. We report a newborn with right renal vein and inferior vena cava thrombosis who apparently embolized across the foramen ovale antenatally with resultant right brachial artery occlusion. The baby was delivered by cesarean section from an insulin-dependent diabetic mother. At the time of birth, there was severe right arm ischemia with absent brachial and radial pulses. There was clinical evidence of distal embolization with a "trash" lesion of the distal right middle finger as well as a midforearm area of full-thickness skin loss. Ultrasound demonstrated a right renal vein thrombosis and a 95% occlusion of the inferior vena cava. Regional urokinase therapy was instituted through a lower extremity vein with a 5,000 U/kg bolus and then 5,000 U/kg/h continuous infusion. Twelve hours of infusion of urokinase led to clinical resolution of the right arm ischemia, with return of pulses. Follow-up ultrasound showed the right renal vein thrombosis and inferior vena cava clot to be completely resolved. The right middle finger and forearm lesions subsequently have healed primarily. We report this as a case of in utero arterial embolization with successful postnatal therapy using regional urokinase infusion.
Testing the rebound peer review concept.

This invited editorial addresses the rescue of the article by Skrzypek et al. “Interplay between heme oxygenase-1 and miR-378 affects non-small cell lung carcinoma growth, vascularization, and metastasis.” The work was rejected by the standard peer review system and subsequently rescued by the Rebound Peer Review (RPR) mechanism offered by Antioxidants and Redox Signaling (Antioxid Redox Signal 16: 293–296, 2012). The reviewers who openly rescued the article were James F. George, Justin C. Mason, Mahin D. Maines, and Yasufumi Sato. The initial article was a de novo resubmission of a previously rejected article, which was then reviewed by six reviewers. The reviewers raised substantial scientific concerns, including questions pertaining to the specificity of the findings, quality of the presentation, and other technical concerns; the editor returned a decision of reject. The authors voluntarily chose to exercise the option to rescue the article utilizing the RPR system, where the authors found qualified reviewers who were willing to advocate for acceptance with scientific reasoning. The open reviewers felt that the scientific and technical concerns raised by the reviewers were outweighed by the strengths and novelty of the findings to justify acceptance. The RPR, in this case, was a “success” in that it rescued a rejected article. Despite this assessment, we question the necessity of open peer review as a means to overturn a peer review decision, with concerns for the larger-than-usual peer review process, and the voluntary relinquishing of editorial privilege and disclosure of reviewer identity. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 19, 639–643.
The IDEAL service transaction analysis approach for projects in operations management courses

The walk-through service audit has been used in classrooms for some time (Fitzsimmons and Fitzsimmons, 2004). In 1999, Johnston recommended an extension of the walk-through service audit, the Service Transaction Analysis (STA) concept. This paper is an extension of the STA whereby we incorporate a system's approach that includes the organisation's vision, mission statement, core competencies, and order winners and qualifiers to determine how well key business processes are designed, executed, integrated, and aligned with these factors (IDEAL STA). Students learn to identify the mis-messages that an organisation sends to its customers, learn to identify where mis-alignment exists, and learn to prepare corrective recommendations. Survey results indicate students feel the group project is an effective classroom tool that relates to job performance and knowledge development. The project is well suited for international adaptation since a grocery store is used for the in-class exercises and fast food restaurants are the project companies.
Alternative specifications of the error process in the stochastic simulation of econometric models

SUMMARY This paper analyses the stochastic simulation of econometric models using three different methods for specifying the probability distribution of the structural error terms. The impact of these different assumptions on the simulation bias and model variance is explored empirically. Monte Carlo variance reduction techniques are used to distinguish the effects of the different specifications. A macroeconometric model is a set of behavioural equations which represent endogenous variables as a function of predetermined variables and error terms. The model may be written in the form f(yt, xt) = ut, where yt is a vector of endogenous variables, xt is a vector of predetermined variables, and ut is a vector of stochastic error terms. The parameters of the structural functions f are estimated using econometric methods. When econometric models are used to predict the future, a point prediction is usually obtained with deterministic solution. The deterministic solution is calculated by solving f(yt, xt) = 0 for yt. This is equivalent to assuming that the stochastic terms ut are equal to zero in the future period. It is well known that, if the model is nonlinear, then E(yt I xt) is not equal to the deterministic solution. For example, see, Fisher and Salmon (1986), where large discrepancies between E(yt I xt) arid the deterministic solution are shown in some cases. Alternatively, predictions may be made using stochastic simulation. In stochastic simulation a distribution is assumed for the error vector ut. Then a pseudo-random vector st is drawn from the specified distribution. The model is then solved; the value of Yt which solves f(yt, xt) = st is found. This process is repeated n times and the resulting vectors are averaged. Since this is a Monte Carlo technique, the economist can increase accuracy by performing more replications (increasing n). The results will depend upon the distribution assumed for the error terms ut, and adopted for generating the pseudo-random error terms St. 1 Estimation errors of the structural form parameters could also be considered in simulation studies. However, it was shown in Bianchi and Calzolari (1980) that the impact of errors in estimated coefficients can be treated with analytical or analytical-numerical methods even for nonlinear models, without need of stochastic simulation. Therefore, in this study we shall not deal with errors in coefficients; coefficients will be treated as given.
Monitoring load control at the feeder level using high speed monitoring equipment

The use of a high-speed data acquisition system (50 samples a second) to monitor load control is described. The system has proved extremely effective in evaluating the impact of load control. A methodology for detecting appliance starts within the high-speed data is described and given a preliminary test. This high-speed monitoring technology promise to be relatively inexpensive and highly reliable and to provide real-time information which can be used by power system operators to make decisions about load control actions. >
Bounds on a graph's security number

Let G=(V,E) be a graph. A set [email protected]?V is a defensive alliance if |N[x]@?S|>=|N[x]-S| for every [email protected]?S. Thus, each vertex of a defensive alliance can, with the aid of its neighbors in S, be defended from attack by its neighbors outside of S. An entire set S is secure if any subset [email protected]?S, not just singletons, can be defended from an attack from outside of S, under an appropriate definition of what such a defense implies. The security number s(G) of G is the cardinality of a smallest secure set. Bounds on s(G) are presented.
PITTSBURGH'S RESIDENTIAL PATTERN IN 1815

ABSTRACT Theorists agree that the elite in the nonindustrial city monopolizes central housing sites, forcing the lower classes into the outskirts. This geographical distribution reflects both the prestige enjoyed by the urban core and the underdeveloped transportation technology which discourages long journeys to work. With the advent of industrialization, the city center loses its attractiveness as a place to live and faster, more comfortable forms of transportation appear. In response, the urban upper classes migrate to the periphery while the lower social strata crowd into increasingly dilapidated central housing. Data from Pittsburgh in 1815 provide an interesting perspective on this reversal of the residential pattern. As a nonindustrial town dependent on traditional transportation technology, Pittsburgh generally exhibited the theoretical nonindustrial distribution of social classes. However, members of the elite who did not travel to regular work places daily, and so were least affected by poor tra...
Dual-Finger Preferred-Speed Tapping: Effects of Coordination Mode and Anatomical Finger and Limb Pairings

Interlimb and interfinger coordination were examined in a dual-finger tapping paradigm in which 16 subjects performed at preferred frequencies. Three bimanual finger combinations, in random order (2 index; 2 middle; and 1 index and 1 middle), were performed in in-phase and antiphase coordination modes, in addition to 1 unimanual combination (antiphase index-middle). Relative phase means were within 3p accuracy for all conditions. A lower tapping frequency was found in all antiphase vs. in-phase conditions, accompanied by lower phasing variability and lower intrafinger consistency in the antiphase. When frequency was changed from the preferred rate, the 2 coordination modes became more alike in variability and, within the same frequency range, demonstrated no significant differences. The bimanual mixed-fingers tapping tended to have significantly lower phasing values (a small fixed point drift) and higher tapping frequencies than the symmetric conditions. The unimanual task was similar to all other antiphase conditions. Changes in preferred frequency with different coordination modes may be related to differing perceptual informational constraints. Current models addressing natural frequencies of coupled oscillators do not account for the present data.
Why innovate with education

Pressley and Harris have correctly highlighted many unfortunate limits of educational intervention research and institutions for disseminating research reports. They have suggested useful changes in how intervention research is done, and, except possibly for their emphasis on faithful replication, they have argued correctly that the changes are feasible. Unfortunately, they represent educational intervention research as being important primarily as guidance for educational reformers. I argue that research does not guide educational intervention, and that even if it is improved in the required ways they suggest it will not guide educational innovation. Instead, the valuable function of their analysis is that it could improve the scientific quality of educational research.
Determination of sulfur speciation and oxidation state of olivine hosted melt inclusions

Abstract In order to better understand what controls sulfur speciation in melt inclusions, and how that pertains to the original basalt composition, we have conducted a series of heating experiments on naturally quenched and crystalline olivine-hosted melt inclusions. Sulfur speciation was determined from S Kα peak shift measurements by electron microprobe on the experimentally heated inclusions as well as a series of naturally quenched inclusions, and matrix glasses. Naturally quenched olivine-hosted melt inclusions record a similar but more variable sulfur speciation relative to matrix glasses, (up to 45–50% variation in S6+/Stotal). Much of this range can be attributed to the effect of degassing which may either increase or decrease the S6+/Stotal. In addition, olivine melt re equilibration and H diffusion out of the inclusion both potentially result in the oxidation of melt inclusions. Heating of melt inclusions can have different effects on the sulfur speciation under different conditions. A slight decrease in S6+/Stotal and oxygen fugacity (∼0.1 log units) can occur from overheating of inclusions (above the temperature of entrapment), resulting from excess ferrous iron in the melt. An increase in heating times should result in an oxidation of the inclusion generated by increased H diffusion out of the inclusion. However, results of heating experiments on melt inclusions from an Izu backarc basalt for less than 30 min do not show a significant increase in sulfur oxidation. In addition, experiments conducted at both IW and FMQ have measured sulfur speciation consistent with naturally quenched inclusions suggesting that at experimental temperatures near that of olivine crystallization the furnace atmosphere does not exert significant control on the melt fO2. By taking these parameters into account, sulfur speciation and oxidation state of basaltic melt trapped within inclusions can be accurately determined from both naturally quenched and heated olivine hosted melt inclusions.
Folk quantification of energy

Abstract Consumers use simplified measurements as a basis for residential energy decisions. We analyze their measurements of monthly consumption, changes through time, comparison of appliances, and length of payback period. Because of systematic errors in quantification, consumers choose ineffective energy conservation actions, and underestimate the benefits of previous actions. These errors do not result solely from lack of information since they are made even by consumers who understand technical energymeasurement. To explain the persistence of a seemingly disadvantageous system, we show that consumer methods are cognitively efficient. They are easy to learn and use and are compatible with general-purpose budgeting tasks. However, they lead to higher energy use than would be economically optimal for either the individual or the nation.
Preparation and characterization of asymmetric planar supported bilayers composed of poly(bis-sorbylphosphatidylcholine) on n-octadecyltrichlorosilane SAMs

Planar supported lipid bilayers (PSLBs) have been widely studied as biomembrane models and biosensor scaffolds. For technological applications, a major limitation of PSLBs composed of fluid lipids is that the bilayer structure is readily disrupted when exposed to chemical, mechanical, and thermal stresses. A number of asymmetric supported bilayer structures, such as the hybrid bilayer membrane (HBM) and the tethered bilayer lipid membrane (tBLM), have been created as an alternative to symmetric PSLBs. In both HBMs and tBLMs, the inner monolayer is covalently attached to the substrate while the outer monolayer is typically composed of a fluid lipid. Here we address if cross-linking polymerization of the lipids in the outer monolayer of an asymmetric supported bilayer can achieve the high degree of stability observed previously for symmetric PSLBs in which both monolayers are cross-linked [E.E. Ross, L.J. Rozanski, T. Spratt, S.C. Liu, D.F. O'Brien, S.S. Saavedra, Langmuir 19 (2003) 1752]. To explore this issue, HBMs composed of an outer monolayer of a cross-linkable lipid, bis-sorbylphosphatidylcholine (bis-SorbPC), and an inner SAM were prepared and characterized. Several experimental conditions were varied: vesicle fusion time, polymerization method, and polymerization time and temperature. Under most conditions, bis-SorbPC cross-linking stabilized the HBM such that its bilayer structure was largely preserved after drying; however these films invariably contained sub-micron scale defects that exposed the hydrophobic core of the HBM. The defects appear to be caused by desorption of low molecular weight oligomers when the film is removed from water, rinsed, and dried. In contrast, poly(bis-SorbPC) PSLBs prepared under similar conditions by Ross et al. were nearly defect free. This comparison shows that formation of a cross-linked network in the outer leaflet of an asymmetric supported bilayer is insufficient to prevent lipid desorption; inter-leaflet covalent linking appears to be necessary to create supported poly(lipid) assemblies that are impervious to repeated drying and rehydration. The difference in stability is attributed to inter-leaflet cross-linking between monolayers which can form in symmetric bis-SorbPC PSLBs.
Threonine 393 of β‐catenin regulates interaction with Axin

CK2 is a regulatory kinase implicated in embryonic development and in cancer. Among the CK2 substrates is beta-catenin, a protein with dual function in Wnt signaling and cell adhesion. Previously, we reported that CK2 activity is required for beta-catenin stability and we identified threonine (T) 393 as a major CK2 phosphorylation site in beta-catenin. However, it is not known whether phosphorylation at T393 increases beta-catenin stability and if so, what is the mechanism. In this study we investigate the molecular mechanism of beta-catenin stabilization through phosphorylation at T393. We found that pseudophosphorylation of beta-catenin at T393 resulted in a stable activated form of beta-catenin with decreased affinity for Axin in vitro. This phosphomimetic mutant also displayed decreased regulation by Axin in vivo in a bioassay in Xenopus laevis embryos. In contrast, the binding of T393 pseudophosphorylated beta-catenin to E-cadherin was unaffected. Further analysis showed that pseudophosphorylation at T393 did not prevent beta-catenin phosphorylation by GSK3beta. Interestingly, we found that in the presence of pseudophophorylated beta-catenin and another activated form of beta-catenin, the recruitment of GSK3beta to Axin is enhanced. These findings indicate that phosphorylation of T393 by CK2 may affect the stability of beta-catenin through decreased binding to Axin. In addition, the increased recruitment of GSK3beta to the destruction complex in the presence of activated beta-catenin mutants could be a feedback mechanism to suppress overactive Wnt signaling.
Comparison of octreotide and standard therapy versus standard therapy alone for the treatment of sulfonylurea-induced hypoglycemia.

Study objective This study is designed to test the hypothesis that the administration of octreotide acetate (Sandostatin; Novartis Pharmaceuticals) in addition to standard therapy will increase serum glucose level measured at serial intervals in patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with sulfonylurea-induced hypoglycemia compared with standard therapy alone. Methods This study was a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. All adult patients who presented to the ED with hypoglycemia (serum glucose level ≤60 mg/dL) and were found to be taking a sulfonylurea or a combination of insulin and sulfonylurea were screened for participation in the study. Study participants were randomized to receive standard treatment (1 ampule of 50% dextrose intravenously and carbohydrates orally) and placebo (1 mL of 0.9% normal saline solution subcutaneously) or standard treatment plus 1 dose of octreotide 75 μg subcutaneously. Subsequent treatment interventions were at the discretion of the inpatient internal medicine service. Results A total of 40 patients (18 placebo; 22 octreotide) were enrolled. The mean serum glucose measurement at presentation was placebo 35 mg/dL and octreotide 39 mg/dL. The mean glucose values for octreotide patients compared with placebo were consistently higher during the first 8 hours but showed no difference in subsequent hours. Mean glucose differences approached statistical significance from 1 to 3 hours and were significant from 4 to 8 hours after octreotide or placebo administration. Conclusion The addition of octreotide to standard therapy in hypoglycemic patients receiving treatment with a sulfonylurea increased serum glucose values for the first 8 hours after administration in our patients. Recurrent hypoglycemic episodes occurred less frequently in patients who received octreotide compared with those who received placebo.
Platelet/Vessel Wall Interactions, Rheologic Factors and Thrombogenic Substrate in Acute Coronary Syndromes: Preventive Strategies

Thrombosis is an important pathogenetic factor in acute coronary syndromes, including unstable angina, myocardial infarction and sudden death. In all of these conditions, atherosclerotic plaque fissuring is a key inciting event. Minor injury to the vessel wall brings into play interactions between platelets and the wall. Platelet adhesion and aggregation ensue, modulated by a number of factors and substances. More severe injury to the vessel wall exposes the blood to other thrombogenic substances. Platelet deposition is also affected by rheologic (blood flow) factors at the site of injury, depending on the degree of stenosis and the resulting shear rates. The mechanism of unstable angina appears to be related to these factors in the following sequence: mild stenosis and minor injury with plaque fissuring, platelet responses, labile thrombosis, intermittent ischemia and pain at rest. Vasoconstriction may contribute to the symptoms. Although developing from the same origin, infarction may stem from a greater degree of vessel wall damage resulting in more permanent thrombus. Such considerations provide a focus for preventive strategies, including the optimal use of current inhibitors of platelet adhesion and aggregation and the application of peptide receptor blockers and monoclonal antibodies. Also important is control of rheologic factors by preventing stenosis or correcting it with angioplasty and thrombolytic therapy. Further elucidation of the critical role of thrombosis in coronary syndromes will facilitate progress toward the ultimate goal of primary prevention.
Cheating death: a Coxiella effector prevents apoptosis

dria to provide a stable intracellular niche for replication (Luhrmann and Roy, 2007). The pathogen also activates Akt and Erk1/2 signaling to promote survival (Voth and Heinzen, 2009). Each of these events relies on Coxiella protein synthesis, suggesting the organism secretes a distinct effector(s) to regulate apoptosis. Unfortunately, effector identification and characterization has been hampered by a lack of methods for Coxiella genetic manipulation. As an alternative, Luhrmann et al. (2010) investigated the mechanistic activity of a Coxiella Ank through exploration of its anti-apoptotic function in Legionella. Luhrmann et al. (2010) tested the ability of four Anks (AnkA, B, F, and G) to inhibit intrinsic apoptosis. Eukaryotic cells ectopically expressing individual Anks were treated with the apoptosis-inducing agent staurosporine. Only AnkG prevented apoptosis with ∼65% of AnkG-expressing cells maintaining viability. Ankyrin repeat domains mediate eukaryotic protein– protein interactions (Mosavi et al., 2004) and Dot/Icm substrates predictably bind to, and manipulate, a specific host protein(s). Therefore, Luhrmann et al. (2010) used GST pulldown and immunoprecipitation approaches to identify host-binding partners for AnkG. Interestingly, mass spectrometry analysis and confirmatory immunoprecipitation studies identified the mitochondrial inner matrix protein p32 as a specific AnkG interacting protein. p32 is a pro-apoptotic protein that binds to Hrk to promote cytochrome c release (Sunayama et al., 2004) and also interacts with ARF, a pro-apoptotic p53 regulatory protein (Itahana and Zhang, 2008). Thus, AnkG interaction with p32 likely precludes interaction with other pro-apoptotic mitochondrial proteins, resulting in decreased cytochrome c release. This is also the first known example of a bacterial protein targeting p32 to manipulate host cell survival. Next, the authors performed a set of interesting gain of function experiments. In contrast to Coxiella, Legionella induces Cheating death: a Coxiella effector prevents apoptosis
Basic Concepts of Immunology and Its Application to Clinical Nutrition

In recent years, evidence has accumulated on the effects of nutrients on metabolic processes. The role of specific nutrients in modulating immune function has received much attention because of the significant role of the immune system in a variety of disease states. The immune system depends on the complex interactions of its various parts. In response to an "antigen" or foreign substance that penetrates the external protective barriers of the human body, nonspecific (phagocytes, complement) defense mechanisms and antigen-specific factors are activated. The antigen-specific immune system relies on both humoral (antibodies and B cells) and cellular (T cells and lymphokines) defenses. Malnutrition causes a decline in all aspects of host defense. Correction of malnutrition in hospitalized patients and restoration of immunocompetence has become a goal of nutrition support practitioners today. The application of current research findings to patient care requires a basic understanding of immunology.
The Gene That Encodes the Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Latency-Associated Transcript Influences the Accumulation of Transcripts (Bcl-xL and Bcl-xS) That Encode Apoptotic Regulatory Proteins

The herpes simplex virus type 1 latency-associated transcript (LAT) inhibits apoptosis. We demonstrate here that LAT influences the accumulation of the Bcl-x L transcript versus the Bcl-x S transcript in Neuro-2A cells. Bcl-x L encodes an antiapoptotic protein, whereas Bcl-x S encodes a proapoptotic protein. Promoting the accumulation of Bcl-x L in neurons may inhibit apoptosis, thus enhancing the latency-reactivation cycle.
Rational, Log Canonical, Du Bois Singularities II: Kodaira Vanishing and Small Deformations

Kollar's conjecture, that log canonical singularities are Du Bois, is proved in the case of Cohen–Macaulay 3-folds. This in turn is used to derive Kodaira vanishing for this class of varieties. Finally it is proved that small deformations of Du Bois singularities are again Du Bois.
Quantitative analysis of pyrazines in a hydrophilic solid model system

The requirements for accurate quantitative analysis of 2-methylpyrazine and 2,5-dimethylpyrazine thermally produced in a solid system consisting of 4.5% (w/w) lysine, 5.5% (w/w) glucose and granular starch with 10% moisture content (dry basis) were investigated. The ratios (or response factors) of the pyrazines to pyrimidine obtained from GC analysis remained constant after a 1000 fold concentration at 55C, verifying that pyrimidine was adequate as an internal standard to account for losses of the pyrazines during concentration. Calibration curves for both pyrazines constructed by plotting the response factors versus concentration were shown to be linear from 0–1000 ppm. However, the slope of the calibration curve was found to vary when constructed over 10 days, suggesting that it was necessary to construct daily calibration curves. Recovery studies were conducted by adding known amounts of pyrazines to amioca starch without heating. The procedure using three extractions with methylene chloride gave adequate recovery efficiencies (100%± standard deviation) versus recoveries below 80% for two extractions. In order to completely recover the pyrazines thermally produced in the model system with methylene chloride, an extraction time of 72 h at room temperature was necessary which was believed to be due to the diffusion limited extraction of the pyrazines by the nonpolar solvent from the hydrophilic solid matrix.
Learning Under Limited Information

Abstract We study how human subjects learn under extremely limited information. We use Chen's (forthcoming) data on cost sharing games, and Van Huyck et al.'s (1996, Manuscript) data on coordination games to compare three payoff-based learning models. Under the serial mechanism and coordination games, the payoff-assessment learning model (Sarin and Vahid, 1999, Games Econ. Behav. 28, 294–309) tracks the data the best, followed by the experience-weighted attraction learning model (Camerer and Ho, 1999, Econometrica, 67, 827–874), which in turn, is followed by a simple reinforcement learning model. Under the average cost pricing mechanism, however, none of the learning models tracks the data well.
Clathrin-independent endocytosis of ErbB2 in geldanamycin-treated human breast cancer cells

The epidermal growth factor (EGF)-receptor family member ErbB2 is commonly overexpressed in human breast cancer cells and correlates with poor prognosis. Geldanamycin (GA) induces the ubiquitylation, intracellular accumulation and degradation of ErbB2. Whether GA stimulates ErbB2 internalization is controversial. We found that ErbB2 was internalized constitutively at a rate that was not affected by GA in SK-BR-3 breast cancer cells. Instead, GA treatment altered endosomal sorting, causing the transport of ErbB2 to lysosomes for degradation. In contrast to earlier work, we found that ErbB2 internalization occurred by a clathrin- and tyrosine-kinase-independent pathway that was not caveolar, because SK-BR-3 cells lack caveolae. Similar to cargo of the glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored protein-enriched early endosomal compartment (GEEC) pathway, internalized ErbB2 colocalized with cholera toxin B subunit, GPI-anchored proteins and fluid, and was often seen in short tubules or large vesicles. However, in contrast to the GEEC pathway in other cells, internalization of ErbB2 and fluid in SK-BR-3 cells did not require Rho-family GTPase activity. Accumulation of ErbB2 in vesicles containing constitutively active Arf6-Q67L occurred only without GA treatment; Arf6-Q67L did not slow transport to lysosomes in GA-treated cells. Further characterization of this novel clathrin-, caveolae- and Rho-family-independent endocytic pathway might reveal new strategies for the downregulation of ErbB2 in breast cancer.
Effects of hydroxylamine and silicomolybdate on the decay in delayed light emission in the 6-100 μs range after a single 10 ns flash in pea thylakoids.

Measurements are reported on μs delayed light emission, following a single 10 ns excitation flash, in Alaska pea thylakoids treated with hydroxylamine (NH2OH) or with silicomolybdate. 1. In thylakoids treated with 2 mM NH2OH in the light, or in the dark, the quantum yield of delayed light emission is considerably enhanced. A 10 μs lifetime component of delayed light emission is not significantly changed, whereas a 50–70 μs lifetime component is increased. MnCl2 and diphenylcarbazide are unable to reverse the above effects of NH2OH treatment. Thus Mn2+ and diphenylcarbazide must not donate electrons directly to reaction center II but on the oxygen-evolution side of the NH2OH block. 2. When the closed form of photosystem II reaction centers (P680Q-), where P680 is the reaction center chlorophyll and Q is a ‘stable’ electron acceptor, is generated by preillumination of NH2OH-treated thylakoids with diuron present, the μs delayed light emission is inhibited, but a low level residual delayed light emission remains. Possible origins of this emission are discussed. It is believed that the best explanation for residual DLE is the existence of another acceptor besides Q that partakes in charge separation and rapid dissipative recombination when the reaction center is in the P680Q- state. 3. The quantum yield of delayed light emission from ‘closed’ reaction centers (P680+Q-) that have all charge stabilization reactions (i.e., flow of electrons to P680+ and out of Q-) blocked by NH2OH treatment and addition of diuron is 1.1×10-3 for components measured in a range from 6 to 400 μs and extrapolated to zero time. 4. The addition of silicomolybdate, which accepts electron from Q-, causes delayed light emission in the μs range to be greatly inhibited.
How Low-Income Residents Can Benefit from Urban Development: The LA Live Community Benefits Agreement

Large urban development projects highlight the vast disparities in the economic and political resources controlled by developers as compared to low–income residents. Studies have documented the neg...
Access to Diagnosis and Treatment Services Among Latino Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders

There is greater identification of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and, as a result, more attention to specialty services to address the challenges children with ASD face. Along with the growth in identification of ASD is a growth in the population of Latino children, yet there is some evidence that disparities exist in diagnosis and services between Latino and non-Latino White children. This study further documents these disparities and investigates the mechanisms that may contribute to them. Diagnosis and specialty services were compared between 48 Latino and 56 non-Latino White children diagnosed with ASD, and factors that contribute to differences are explored. Results show that Latino children were diagnosed almost one year later than White children, received fewer specialty services, and had higher unmet service needs. Factors that accounted for differences in the number of services received were maternal level of education and the number of sources of knowledge about autism. Findings suggest that service providers need to work to provide greater awareness and knowledge about autism, and make services more accessible to Latino families.
Triple-Coupled Intense Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet From Honeycomb Structural Plasma Device

The authors describe an intensified plasma jet from a honeycomb structural plasma jet array at atmospheric pressure. Despite an equally distributed gas flow, the outermost tubes did not produce strong individual plumes. Rather, the plasma plumes were drawn into the central plume, which was, in turn, amplified. As a result, the optical intensity from the 19-array plasma jet was nearly twice greater than that from a conventional single plasma jet at the maximum plasma emission condition of each device under identical applied voltages.
Ultrathin oxide-nitride dielectrics for rugged stacked DRAM capacitors

Ultrathin dielectric materials that provide high capacitance values are needed for 64- and 256-Mb stacked DRAMs. It is shown that capacitance values as high as 12.3 fF/ mu m/sup 2/ can be obtained with ultrathin nitride-based layers deposited on rugged polysilicon storage electrodes. These films present the reliability and low leakage current levels required for 3.3-V applications. The nitride thickness, however, cannot be scaled much below 6 nm to avoid the oxidation-punchthrough mechanisms that appear when too-thin films are unable to withstand the reoxidation step. >
Integration of Sustainability Issues during Early Design Stages in a Global Supply Chain Context

A method is introduced to incorporate sustainability considerations in the early design stages, while simultaneously accounting for supply chain factors, such as cost and lead time. Overall, this work is our first step in understanding the trade-offs between sustainability metrics and more traditional supply chain performance metrics (i.e., cost and lead time). Based on our understanding of these trade-offs, we intend to help build computational artificial intelligence tools that can exploit these trade-offs for improved customization in products.
Accelerated Implantable Defibrillator Battery Depletion Secondary to Lithium Cluster Formation: A Case Series.

Background Device failure from unanticipated and precipitous battery depletion is uncommon but can be life-threatening. Multiple mechanisms of battery failure have been previously described in the medical literature. Methods However, in this current case series, we describe the largest cohort of patients (n = 4) with St. Jude (St. Paul, MN, USA) early implantable defibrillator battery depletion attributable to lithium cluster formation causing short circuit and high current drain. Conclusion Clinicians must be aware of this occult cause of device failure and more studies are needed to determine its true prevalence.
Manipulations of Nanoparticle Chain Aggregates in Transmission Electron Microscopy

We have developed a nanostructure manipulation device (NSMD) to apply tension to a single nanoparticle chain aggregate (NCA) mounted in a transmission electron microscope. The system was used for studying stretching and contraction of carbon chain aggregates. Carbon NCAs generated by laser ablation of a graphite target were stretched and bent using the NSMD. The NCA was stretched up to 310% of its initial length before becoming taut and then breaking. The broken NCA contracted rapidly showing its elastic behavior. The NCA was plastically deformed during stretching through unraveling of kinks along the NCA. However, the unraveling was irreversible so that the chain formed a loop with a big curvature as its two ends were brought closer together.
QUALITY OF LIFE IN PATIENTS WITH TETRALOGY OF FALLOT AFTER PULMONARY VALVE REPLACEMENT: IS THERE AN ASSOCIATION WITH IMPROVEMENT IN RIGHT VENTRICULAR SIZE BY CARDIAC MRI?

There is increasing reliance on cardiac MRI derived volumetric thresholds to determine timing of pulmonary valve replacement (PVR) in tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). However, there is minimal evidence correlating reduced right ventricular size with exercise capacity and quality of life (QOL). The RAND-36
An Efficient Synthesis of 1-(2-Methoxyphenoxy)-2,3-epoxypropane: Key Intermediate of β-Adrenoblockers

An efficient process for the preparation of 1-(2-methoxyphenoxy)-2,3-epoxypropane, a key intermediate for the synthesis of ranolazine is described.