cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Capillary zone electrophoresis-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry for quantitative parallel reaction monitoring of peptide abundance and single-shot proteomic analysis of a human cell line

We coupled capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) with an ultrasensitive electrokinetically pumped nanospray ionization source for tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) analysis of complex proteomes. We first used the system for the parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) analysis of angiotensin II spiked in 0.45mg/mL of bovine serum albumin (BSA) digest. A calibration curve was generated between the loading amount of angiotensin II and intensity of angiotensin II fragment ions. CZE-PRM generated a linear calibration curve across over 4.5 orders of magnitude dynamic range corresponding to angiotensin II loading amount from 2amole to 150fmole. The relative standard deviations (RSDs) of migration time were <4% and the RSDs of fragment ion intensity were ∼20% or less except 150fmole angiotensin II loading amount data (∼36% RSD). We further applied the system for the first bottom up proteomic analysis of a human cell line using CZE-MS/MS. We generated 283 protein identifications from a 1h long, single-shot CZE MS/MS analysis of the MCF7 breast cancer cell line digest, corresponding to ∼80ng loading amount. The MCF7 digest was fractionated using a C18 solid phase extraction column; single-shot analysis of a single fraction resulted in 468 protein identifications, which is by far the largest number of protein identifications reported for a mammalian proteomic sample using CZE.
Hyperinnervation of Neuromuscular Junctions Caused by GDNF Overexpression in Muscle

Overexpression of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) by muscle greatly increased the number of motor axons innervating neuromuscular junctions in neonatal mice. The extent of hyperinnervation correlated with the amount of GDNF expressed in four transgenic lines. Overexpression of GDNF by glia and overexpression of neurotrophin-3 and neurotrophin-4 in muscle did not cause hyperinnervation. Thus, increased amounts of GDNF in postsynaptic target cells can regulate the number of innervating axons.
Application of NMR-based metabolomics for environmental assessment in the Great Lakes using zebra mussel ( Dreissena polymorpha )

Zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha, in the Great Lakes is being monitored as a bio-indicator organism for environmental health effects by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Mussel Watch program. In order to monitor the environmental effects of industrial pollution on the ecosystem, invasive zebra mussels were collected from four stations—three inner harbor sites (LMMB4, LMMB1, and LMMB) in Milwaukee Estuary, and one reference site (LMMB5) in Lake Michigan, Wisconsin. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics was used to evaluate the metabolic profiles of the mussels from these four sites. The objective was to observe whether there were differences in metabolite profiles between impacted sites and the reference site; and if there were metabolic profile differences among the impacted sites. Principal component analyses indicated there was no significant difference between two impacted sites: north Milwaukee harbor (LMMB and LMMB4) and the LMMB5 reference site. However, significant metabolic differences were observed between the impacted site on the south Milwaukee harbor (LMMB1) and the LMMB5 reference site, a finding that correlates with preliminary sediment toxicity results. A total of 26 altered metabolites (including two unidentified peaks) were successfully identified in a comparison of zebra mussels from the LMMB1 site and LMMB5 reference site. The application of both uni- and multivariate analysis not only confirmed the variability of altered metabolites but also ensured that these metabolites were identified via unbiased analysis. This study has demonstrated the feasibility of the NMR-based metabolomics approach to assess whole-body metabolomics of zebra mussels to study the physiological impact of toxicant exposure at field sites.
Introduction: The Meaning of Work

Abstract The theme of this special issue is how cultural, societal, group, and individual factors shape what working has meant, means, and is going to mean in future societies. Concepts and empirical data from the Meaning of Working study (MOW, 1987), an eight-country comparison of work-related attitudes and values, and from complementary follow-up studies, serve as the “red thread” or empirical basis throughout the issue. The original MOW (1987) study and some of the follow-up studies reported in this issue are based on a heuristic model for the subjective meaning of work, which is briefly discussed in the first paper by Ruiz Quintanilla and Wilpert. However, as nearly all of the discussants point out, and Heller's paper tries to discuss specifically, there is still a lot of theoretical work to do. The studies reported in this issue provide some empirical data bases and point towards new and crucial questions that are raised by the results. On the other hand, this issue also wants to contribute to a focu...
Differential Scanning Calorimetry Study of Asphalt Crystallinity

Eight asphalt samples with grades ranging from AC10 to AC30 from four different sources were examined using NMR, FTIR, and differential scanning calorimetry. The crystallization process of asphalt is very time dependent. Slow heating or annealing before analysis to experimentally realize a near-equilibrium state is necessary to study the system with more thermodynamic rigor. Indeed, the annealing method developed in this work resolves a number of low-temperature transitions characteristic of a given crude and/or refinery source; thus, comparison of thermograms from an unknown source with reference thermograms from documented sources allows one to identify the unknown source. The crystallization process of a selected AC-20 asphalt, ACB, was systematically studied by doping with the following pure crystalline hydrocarbons: octadecene-1, eicosane, and octacosane. The impact of doping on the crystalline fractions in asphalt varies from asphalt to asphalt. The crystalline components in asphalt exhibit distinct...
EA-6B high-lift wing modifications

NASA-Langley has accomplished the computational design and experimental verification of EA-6B aircraft wing modifications for improved high lift capability. The modifications are comparatively simple, and attempt to improve low speed high lift performance while maintaining high speed cruise efficiency. Several two- and three-dimensional low speed and transonic computational techniques were employed, together with extensive wind tunnel tests. The modified inboard and outboard edge slat/flap system sections yielded efficiency improvements that were verified by three-dimensional wind tunnel experiments to amount to an 11-percent wing-body lift coefficient enhancement at low speed.
Laparoscopic approaches to resection of suspected gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors based on tumor location

Surgical resection of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) should be optimized to achieve a negative pathologic surgical margin while limiting the extent of stomach volume loss. Careful identification of exact gastric tumor location using preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans and gastroscopy should allow for selection of a specific operative approach. This retrospective case series involved 12 patients (7 men and 5 women; mean age, 60.5 years) with suspected gastric GIST undergoing tumor resection at Fletcher Allen Health Care, a university medical center, from January 2005 to August 2006. The main outcome measures were pathologic resection margins, operative time, estimated blood loss (EBL), morbidity, and duration of hospital stay. The 12 patients were separated into three groups on the basis of tumor location as follows: type 1 (fundus/greater curvature, n = 5), type 2 (prepyloric/antrum, n = 3), and type 3 (lesser curvature/perigastroesophageal junction, n = 4). Preoperative imaging (CT scan and/or endoscopy) used to identify tumor location accurately predicted the operative approach before surgery for 11 of the12 patients. The surgical approach was selected solely by tumor location as follows: type 1 (laparoscopic partial gastrectomy [LPG]), type 2 (laparoscopic distal gastrectomy [LDG]), and type 3 (laparoscopic transgastric resection [LTG]). Nine patients had a final pathologic diagnosis of GIST. The average tumor size was 4.6 cm, but this did not influence procedure selection. Histologic margins were microscopically negative in all patients. The LPG and LTG approaches had similar outcomes in terms of estimated blood loss (EBL; 80 vs 100 ml) and hospital stay (3.4 vs 3.3 days; p = 0.0198), but LTG had longer operative times (236 vs 180 min). The LDG procedure had longer operative times, greater EBL, and a longer hospital stay. The operative morbidity was 17%, and there was no operative mortality. The selection of an operative technique for resection of gastric submucosal tumors can be based on preoperative identification of tumor location, for better definition of both the extent of gastric resection and the technical complexity of the laparoscopic procedure.
Age and intelligence as mediators of anger in black suicide attempters.

For a sample of 25 African Americans who attempted suicide, hostility scores were largely independent of age, sex, and intelligence. Language: en
Current medical and surgical therapy for cerebrovascular disease.

THE past several years have witnessed a flurry of prospective clinical trials of new treatments for transient ischemic attack, cerebral infarction, and cerebral hemorrhage, and the results have markedly altered our management of these conditions (Table 1). Furthermore, another generation of Phase II and controlled prospective studies (based on pilot studies) are planned or under way (Table 2). This survey will briefly review these studies in the context of current therapy for the following: prevention of stroke after transient ischemic attack or stroke, acute cerebral infarction and progressing stroke, cardiogenic embolism to the brain, cerebral arteritis, intracerebral hematoma, arteriovenous malformation, . . .
Intense Compton γ-ray source from the Duke storage ring FEL

Abstract A 1.1 GeV electron storage ring dedicated for UV-VUV FEL operation was commissioned last year at the Duke University Free Electron Laser Laboratory (DFELL) [1]. The OK-4 FEL was shipped to Duke from Novosibirsk earlier this year and is in the process of installation. The high average intracavity power and natural synchronization of electron and optical pulses in the OK-4 FEL will allow the production of intense beam of inverse Compton 5–150 MeV γ-rays. The projected brightness of this γ-ray source will allow the attainment of high energy resolution by simple geometrical collimation. The wide tunability of the OK-4 FEL will also provide for continuous tuning of the γ-rays energy. In this paper we discuss the influence of beam parameters on the γ-ray energy spread and projected performance of the Duke/OK-4 inverse Compton γ-ray source. A detailed description of this study could be found in Ref. [2].
A double-label analysis demonstrating the non-coexistence of tyrosine hydroxylase-like and GABA-like immunoreactivities in amacrine cells of the larval tiger salamander retina

Abstract Previous studies have localized tyrosine hydroxylase, the rate-limiting enzyme for the production of dopamine, and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) to amacrine cell populations in the larval tiger salamander retina. Double-label immunocytochemistry was used to examine if tyrosine hydroxylase-like and GABA-like immunoreactivities colocalize in tiger salamander amacrine cells. A total of 2,162 tyrosine hydroxylase-like immunoreactive amacrine cells were observed in double-labelled sections. None of these cells were observed to express GABA-like immunoreactivity. Therefore, the present study demonstrates that dopamine and GABA are localized to distinct neuronal populations in the larval tiger salamander retina.
Conversion of Infarction‐Associated Atrial Fibrillation by Restoration of Atrial Perfusion

We report a patient who presented with new onset atrial fibrillation in the setting of inferior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Cardiac catheterization revealed proximal occlusion of the left circumflex artery. Balloon angioplasty and stenting restored flow to a large left atrial branch, with prompt conversion of the rhythm to atrial flutter, and then to sinus rhythm. To our knowledge this represents the first demonstration of restoration of sinus rhythm by reversing left atrial ischemia in the setting of STEMI.
Flat-panel-detector-based volume tomographic angiography imaging: detector evaluation

Recent development of large area flat panel solid state detector arrays indicates that flat panel image sensors have some common potential advantages: compactness, absence of geometric distortion and veiling glare with the benefits of high resolution, high DQE, high frame rate and high dynamic range, small image lag (less than 1%) and excellent linearity (approximately 1%). The advantages of the new flat-panel detector make it a promising candidate for cone beam volume tomographic angiography imaging. The purpose of this study is to characterize a Selenium thin film transistor (STFT) flat panel detector-based imaging system for cone beam volume tomographic angiography imaging applications. A prototype STFT detector-based cone beam volume tomographic angiography imaging system has been designed and constructed based on the modification of a GE 8800 CT scanner. This system is evaluated using a vascular phantom with different x-ray spectra, different sizes of vessels and different iodine concentration levels. The results indicate that with the currently available STFT flat panel detector, 90 kVp is the optimal kVp to achieve the highest signal-to-noise ratio for volume tomographic angiography imaging and the low contrast resolution of the system is 4 mg/ml iodine for a 2 mm vessel.
Ising spin glass: Replica-symmetric cluster expansion in finite dimensions

The replica-symmetric cluster expansion for the Ising spin glass is reviewed and explained. The expansion allows computation of various quantities and correlations directly in finite dimensions, without recourse to the mean-field theory or the saddle point. The expansion for the free energy is recovered with the use of external fields that couple to the replica-symmetric Edwards-Anderson order parameter. The expansion scheme is applied to the Edwards-Anderson susceptibility. The expansion diverges in the mean-field [infinite dimensionality] limit. The divergent expansion, when naively summed, yields the negative replicon mass of the mean-field theory. This so-called Almeida-Thouless instability of the replica-symmetric mean-field theory is argued to be absent in finite dimensions. The argument, similar to the one already reported for the entropy, depends on the low-temperature behavior of terms in the expansion at finite dimensions. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
Characteristics of retrograde amnesia following reactivation of memory in mice

Amnesia for approach-avoidance learning was induced in mice by injecting the protein synthesis inhibitor anisomycin (ANI) immediately, 1, or 2 hours, but not 3 hours after training. A robust amnesia could be demonstrated if ANI was administered 3 hours after training, immediately following a 60 second exposure to the training apparatus or to a structurally similar environment. The temporal gradient of effectiveness of amnesia production by ANI was significantly steeper following reactivation treatment than it was following initial training. In addition, while amnesia produced by the conventional procedure remained stable for 6 days, the amnesia induced following reactivation treatment spontaneously recovered 4 days after training. These findings are discussed in terms of their relevance to interpretations of retrograde amnesia studies.
An unusual cause of neck pain: acquired Chiari malformation leading to brainstem herniation and death.

Abstract Background Chiari malformations are structural defects in which portions of the cerebellum are located below the foramen magnum. Of the four types of Chiari malformation, emergency physicians are most likely to encounter Type I (Chiari I). Chiari I malformations may be congenital or acquired. Congenital Chiari I malformations are most frequently encountered in the emergency department (ED) setting due to an exacerbation of subacute or chronic Chiari-related symptoms. However, acute Chiari-associated symptoms from an occult congenital or a secondary (acquired) Chiari malformation may occur. Objective To present a literature-guided approach to the identification and initial management of patients with Chiari I malformations in the ED setting. Case Report We present the case of a 30-year-old man who presented to the ED with isolated cervical region pain, and who subsequently died as a result of acute brainstem herniation from an acquired Chiari I malformation. Conclusions Although rare, acute Chiari I malformation may present to the ED. The new finding of a Chiari I malformation should be presumed acquired until proved otherwise, and should trigger an evaluation for central nervous system lesions or hydrocephalus. Brain imaging to exclude increased intracranial pressure and, in certain cases, specialty consultation, are important considerations.
Smartphone applications: potential tools for use in preparing for CCRN certification examinations.

Recent advances in smartphone technology now allow clinicians to use commercially produced applications when studying for nursing certification examinations. The quality of currently available CCRN review applications varies in this first generation of products. Most are limited to multiple-choice practice questions, although a few have additional elements such as study guides and reference charts. Weaknesses found in the applications evaluated include poorly written and edited content, questions limited to rote memorization rather than application and analysis of knowledge, and content too basic or outside the scope of experienced critical care nursing practice. A list of important factors for consumers to consider before purchase is provided. (Critical Care Nurse. 2014;34[3]:62-65)
ACCLAIM—a computer aided design system

ACCLAIM—Automated Circuit Card Layout and Implementation—is a family of computer programs, written in FORTRAN IV, which reduces Boolean equations to logical elements, translates the logical elements to physically realizable gates, synthesizes the gates into a switching network, and topologically configures a printed circuit card. It then determines the connection signal paths and produces artwork which is photographically processed into an etching template.
The distribution function of the event-by-event average pT for statistically independent emission

Abstract For statistically independent emission, a closed form of the distribution function for M p T , the event-by-event average p T , can be obtained. A recent NA49 measurement satisfies this conditions and a distribution is obtained which is in excellent agreement with the NA49 measurement.
Analysis and Optimization of Asynchronously Controlled Electrostatic Energy Harvesters

Mechanical to electrical energy conversion employing variable capacitors is assisted by electronic circuits that can have synchronous or asynchronous architectures. The later does not require synchronization of electrical events with mechanical motion, which eliminates difficulties in gate clocking and the power consumption associated with intelligent control circuitry. However, implementation of asynchronous energy harvesting circuits with the mechanical-to-electrical converter can be detrimental to the performance of the converter when done without concurrent optimization of the mechanical device and the circuit, an aspect mainly overlooked in the literature. This paper carries out system level analysis of electrostatic micro-generators with asynchronous control and charge fly-back mechanism to optimize the useful energy generated by the harvester. Our theoretical and experimental investigations show that there is an optimum value for either the storage capacitor or cycle number for maximum scavenging of ambient energy via asynchronous electrostatic transduction. The analysis also indicates that the maximum power is extracted from the system when approaching synchronization of mechanical and electrical events. However, there is a region of interest where the storage capacitor can be optimized to produce almost 70% of the ideal power, taken as the power harvested with synchronous converters when neglecting the power consumption associated with synchronizing control circuitry. Theoretical predictions are confirmed by measurements on an asynchronous energy harvesting circuit implemented with a macro-scale electrostatic converter prototype.
Self-help care in older African Americans with arthritis.

Abstract Arthritis is the third most common health problem among African Americans and the leading cause of activity limitations. Some of the obstacles facing people who are experiencing health care problems fall disproportionately on older racial and ethnic minority populations. Receiving care, which is perceived as racially and ethnically relevant, is an important factor in overcoming these obstacles. The Arthritis Self-Help Course (ASHC) was successfully used with 150 impoverished African-American elders living in public housing to bolster their confidence in managing their arthritis symptoms. (Geriatr Nurs 2001;22:135-8)
SYSTEMS ANALYSIS OF WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS

This paper describes the use of systems analysis and operations research techniques for the planning, design, and operation of specific parts of a water supply system. Only two areas of interest are emphasized and results of current research studies are indicated. The first topic deals with the optimal design and development of ground water sources, particularly the operation of well fields. The second topic deals with regional development of future supply sources. The question of which supplies should be developed, at what time, to what degree, and which transmission lines should be built to minimize the costs of regional water supply, are formulated mathematically. KEY WORDS: ground water; optimal design; systems; water supply
Death Among Patients Hospitalized With Pneumonia: Implications for Hospital Outcome Measures

The Affordable Care Act established the Value-Based Purchasing Program, launched in 2013, which uses risk-standardized mortality rates as a benchmark to penalize or reward hospitals.1 The risk-standardized mortality rate is calculated using administrative data and includes patients with life-threatening illnesses for whom pneumonia may be the last insult in the setting of terminal illness. Moreover preferences for limiting the use of or withdrawing life-sustaining therapy are considered only for patients already enrolled in hospice on the day of admission. Therefore, risk-standardized mortality rates measure the outcome of care but not necessarily the appropriateness and value of care.2 We sought to determine the proportion of patients identified with pneumonia by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services risk-standardized mortality measures for whom pneumonia was a major contributor to death and to describe the intensity of care and patient preference for life-sustaining therapies.
Dislocation-grain boundary interactions in ice crystals

Abstract Dislocation-grain-boundary (GB) interactions in polycrystalline ice Ih during creep have been studied in situ using synchrotron X-ray topography. The basal slip system with the highest Schmid factor was found to be the most active in polycrystalline ice whereas the GB orientation relative to the loading direction seemed unimportant. GBs act both as effective sources of lattice dislocations and as strong obstacles to dislocation motion. The observations revealed pile-up formation upon loading and pile-up relaxation after unloading. Non-basal segments of lattice dislocations can be generated from GBs in ice. However, they neither noticeably decrease stress concentrations nor contribute significantly to the overall plastic deformation. It was found that dislocations can be generated from both free-surface-GB intersections and from the interiors of GBs, indicating that the dislocation generation mechanism presented in our 1993 paper is not a surface artefact. Evidence is also presented that, because ...
Thomas Ogden's phenomenological turn

The author situates the development of Ogden's clinical theory over the past 20 years within a philosophic scheme. Ogden (1986, 1989), in using Hegel to deconstruct the Cartesian objectivist assumptions of classical psychoanalysis, goes beyond Hegel to create in Subjects of Analysis (1994) a new synthesis that is similar to aspects of Merleau‐Ponty's phenomenology of intersubjectivity. This regrounding allows for the introduction of the analyst's prereflective and sensuous experience through reverie in the cocreation of an intersubjective “third.”; The author illustrates how Ogden's solution to the problem of alterity transcends the debate over one‐person versus two‐person psychologies by producing a truly dialectical, postclassical psychoanalytic theory of intersubjectivity that is neither a one‐ nor a two‐person psychology.
A molecular dynamics simulation study of inclusion size effect on polymeric nanocomposites

Abstract The elastic behavior of polymeric nanocomposites is investigated with molecular dynamics simulations. Inclusions are modeled as spherical nanoparticles. It is demonstrated with numerically performed tensile tests that Young’s moduli of nanocomposites are strongly affected by the size of the nanoparticle as well as by the interaction strength between polymer chains and the nanoparticle. The Young’s modulus of the nanocomposite is enhanced as the size of the nanoparticle decreases as long as the strength of polymer–nanoparticle interaction is stronger than or equal to that of the polymer–polymer interaction. The analysis of stresses on polymer monomers shows that the composite modulus enhancement by smaller nanoparticles is attributed to the stiffer layer of polymer of higher densities around the nanoparticle.
Relation between Perioperative Hypertension and Intracranial Hemorrhage after Craniotomy

BackgroundPrevious data suggest that systemic hypertension (HTN) is a risk factor for postcraniotomy intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). The authors examined the relation between perioperative blood pressure elevation and postoperative ICH using a retrospective case control design.MethodsThe hospital’s d
Computer symbolic math & education: a radical proposal

None of the commonly-taught programming languages is very relevant to the typical elementary-school through college math curriculum, but computer symbolic math is relevant to most of that curriculum. Consequently, a vast opportunity for beneficial mutual reinforcement and cross-motivation between math and computer education is being squandered. This paper substantiates these claims, explains their major causes, then proposes remedies.
A neonatal thrombosis patient treated successfully with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator.

UNLABELLED Herein we report an asphyctic preterm neonate with respiratory distress and prothrombotic risk factors that responded positively to rtPA treatment following 2 attacks of acute thrombosis. CONFLICT OF INTEREST None declared.
The Relationships Between Cognitive Flexibility with Dogmatism, Intellectual Flexibility, Preference for Consistency, and Self-Compassion

This report is a validity study involving the Cognitive Flexibility Scale (Martin & Rubin, 1995). Participants completed an online questionnaire. As predicted, cognitive flexibility was positively related to measures of intellectual flexibility and self-compassion, and negatively related to a measure of dogmatism. The prediction that cognitive flexibility would be negatively related to preference for consistency was not supported.
Teaching Trauma-Focused Exposure Therapy for PTSD: Critical Clinical Lessons for Novice Exposure Therapists

The clinical uptake of effective psychotherapies for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) lags behind what we know about their efficacy. Exposure therapy, one of the best-validated interventions for PTSD (e.g., Institute of Medicine, 2007) remains underutilized by front line clinicians. When asked about their clinical practices, clinicians often cite client factors such as the presence of comorbid disorders and multiple childhood traumas and therapist factors such as fears of client symptom exacerbation and dropout as reasons they would not use exposure therapy (van Minnen, Hendriks, & Olff, 2010). Further, one of the most commonly reported reasons for not utilizing exposure therapy for PTSD is a lack of training and experience (e.g., Becker, Zayfert, & Anderson, 2004). To help bridge this gap, we share our own clinical experiences in learning and training others in exposure therapy for PTSD in order to address common therapist expectations and clinical challenges faced by new and experienced clinicians utilizing exposure therapy. We hope that addressing these common expectations and challenges allays therapist fears, opens a dialogue for clinical discussion of these issues in consultation and supervision, and provides a template of critical teaching points for training other clinicians in exposure therapy. To set the stage for our discussion of therapist expectations and challenges, we first briefly review the core elements of exposure therapy for PTSD. We then discuss common therapist expectations when starting to implement exposure therapy. Next, we highlight common clinical challenges encountered by therapists, providing case examples of our own therapy successes and failures. Finally, we conclude with some general reflections on our experience in learning and teaching others how to treat PTSD with exposure therapy. It is important to note that clinicians working with children and adolescents using exposure-based therapies for PTSD often share many of the expectations and challenges discussed in this paper and that many of the same principles will apply. That said, our focus here is on working with adults, including those who have experienced childhood trauma.
A possible role of the MHC-associated invariant chain in rheumatoid arthritis*

Antigen presentation to T-helper (Th) cells by MHC class II proteins is an important event in the initiation and/or maintenance of autoimmune disease. The class II proteins have a wide, degenerate specificity and are capable of binding several different peptides, including selfpeptides. However, recent data suggest that a protein called invariant chain, li, binds to the class II molecule in the endoplasmic reticulum in such a way that precludes the binding of peptides derived from intracellular self- or non-self-proteins. The class II-li complex is transported through the endoplasmic reticulum to the endosomes, which contain peptides derived from extracellular proteins. The acidic pH and proteolysis in the endosomes cause dissociation of the class II-li complex, making the class II protein availble for binding to the peptides. Thus, the li chain appears to play an important role in suppressing autoimmune responses. A hypothesis that a defect in the li chain could lead to autoimmune disorders is proposed. These defects would include alterations in the li chain such that it is no longer able to compete with the self-peptides for binding to the class II protein.
The Effects of Predator Exposure On the Female Choice of Guppies (Poecilia Reticulata) From a High-Predation Population

Studies have shown that, under intense predation, guppy (Poecilia reticulata) populations have evolved duller male colouration and weaker female preference for brightly coloured males. Gong & Gibson (1996) found that females descended from a low-predation population responded to the presence of a fish predator by becoming less receptive and reversing their typical sexual preference for the brighter and more active of a pair of males. Here, I investigated whether this response is more strongly developed in guppies descended from a captive population exposed to predation from a natural predator. I measured the social and sexual preferences of virgin females for a pair of males both before and after visual exposure to a predatory cichlid in an adjacent tank. Females initially preferred the more actively displaying male. Exposure to the cichlid caused some females to become unreceptive and the remainder avoided the previously preferred male. These effects did not differ in magnitude from the responses of females descended from a low-predation population (Gong & Gibson, 1996). The avoidance of conspicuous males by females seems to be a generalized response to predation risk that is independent of current predation pressure on a population.
Synthesis of Open and Closed Metallacages Using Novel Tripodal Ligands: Unusually Stable Silver(I) Inclusion Compound

The tripodal ligand 1,3,5-(CH 3 ) 3 C 6 [CH 2 OCH 2 C(pz) 3 ] 3 (L1, pz = pyrazolyl ring) reacts with AgBF 4 to yield {[L1 2 Ag 3 (CH 3 CN)]-(BF 4 ) 3 }.(CH 3 CN) 4 , an inclusion complex in which the encapsulated acetonitrile cannot escape the triangular cage unit in either the solid or solution phase. The analogous hexatopic ligand C 6 [CH 2 -OCH 2 C(pz) 3 ] 6 forms a 2-dimensional polymer composed of similar triangular cage units, again with the encapsulation of one acetonitrile molecule, linked by the additional tris(pyrazolyl)methane units. In contrast, the complex formed with L1 and Cd 2 + has a double, open cage structure holding two diethyl ether molecules.
Understanding the Polymorphism of Aspirin with Electronic Calculations

This report presents electronic calculations of two aspirin polymorphs in order to understand the origin of polymorphism in aspirin crystals. Analysis of the calculated electronic structures, particularly the nuclear Fukui functions, reveals a structural tension between the carboxylic and acetyloxy groups, which may play a key role in the formation of aspirin polymorphs. Calculations of the lattice energies of the two polymorphs indicate that aspirin crystals may be enantiotropic.
Cross-cultural validation of the factorial structure of a logistics strategy model : a three-country study

In 2011, McGinnis, Kohn, and Kara reported the effects of overall logistics strategy (OLS) on logistics coordination effectiveness, customer service effectiveness, and organizational competitive responsiveness. This manuscript empirically compares the three dimensions of the Bowersox Daugherty typology to logistics strategies among U.S., Turkish, and Guatemalan companies. US, Turkish, and Guatemalan subjects (logistics managers) were chosen to test the underlying factor structure and measurement equivalences of the scales used. Using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), findings indicate that the three dimensions of the Overall Logistics Strategy (OLS) - Process Strategy, Market Strategy, and Information Strategy - hold in all three country environments studied. However, structural equation modeling shows nonequivalent relationships between OLS and independent variables; logistics coordination effectiveness, customer service commitment, and organizational competitiveness for one of the three countries. We evaluate these findings in light of recent research into logistics strategy research on U.S. firms. Insights for those interested in comparative logistics strategies are provided.
Force sensitive carbon nanotube arrays for biologically inspired airflow sensing

The compressive electromechanical response of aligned carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays is evaluated for use as an artificial hair sensor (AHS) transduction element. CNT arrays with heights of 12, 75, and 225 µm are examined. The quasi-static and dynamic sensitivity to force, response time, and signal drift are examined within the range of applied stresses predicted by a mechanical model applicable to the conceptual CNT array-based AHS (0–1 kPa). Each array is highly sensitive to compressive loading, with a maximum observed gauge factor of 114. The arrays demonstrate a repeatable response to dynamic cycling after a break-in period of approximately 50 cycles. Utilizing a four-wire measurement electrode configuration, the change in contact resistance between the array and the electrodes is observed to dominate the electromechanical response of the arrays. The response time of the CNT arrays is of the order of 10 ms. When the arrays are subjected to constant stress, mechanical creep is observed that results in a signal drift that generally diminishes the responsiveness of the arrays, particularly at stress approaching 1 kPa. The results of this study serve as a preliminary proof of concept for utilizing CNT arrays as a transduction mechanism for a proposed artificial hair sensor. Such a low profile and light-weight flow sensor is expected to have application in a number of applications including navigation and state awareness of small air vehicles, similar in function to natural hair cell receptors utilized by insects and bats.
A Self-Contained CAI Machine for Health Sciences Education

The use of computer-based education in schools of medicine, nursing, dentistry, pharmacy, and other health sciences disciplines has traditionally been carried out with multiple computer terminals connected to a time-sharing computer system (Weinberg, 1973; Wooster and Lewis, 1973; Alpert and Bitzer, 1970). This method was developed to allow sharing of scarce computer resources and requires a complex operating system as well as some form of communication between terminals and computer. Both of these requirements can and do result in operational failures and complex access procedures, but the more efficient use of expensive computer resources has justified the potential difficulty.
A Mother's Son

In this autoethnographic essay, the author explores the possibility of healing, understanding, and moving toward a more comprehensive and honest assessment of self through an examination of “narrative inheritance” and “hindsight.” Motivated by an unexpected correspondence, the author asks questions intended to assist in this examination. In particular, the author confronts deep family issues and secrets that have shaped the stories he tells about himself and his family, stories initially dictated by his mother but through recollection and subsequent investigation, become called into question. The author concludes by attempting to reframe the narrative about himself and his family.
Design, Fabrication and Characterization of a Submillimeter-Wave Niobium HEB Mixer Imaging Array Based on the “Reverse-Microscope” Concept

Prototype one-dimensional (1-D) superconducting hot-electron bolometer (HEB) imaging mixer arrays with four pixels, designed for operation at 585 GHz, and based on slot-ring antennas arranged in the "reverse-microscope" configuration have been fabricated and implemented. Electromagnetic simulations with Agilent's Momentum software package have been performed to study the self- and mutual-impedances of the slot-ring antenna (SRA) array corresponding to various element spacings. Moreover, the element SRA off-axis radiation patterns (with an extended silicon lens) have been calculated using ray-tracing techniques and the imaging angular resolution has been predicted. Fabrication of the arrays and HEB elements are discussed, and measurements for a single mixer element are presented, yielding a double sideband (DSB) receiver noise temperature of approximately 650 K at 585 GHz.
Novel Approaches to the Treatment of Systemic Anthrax

Anthrax continues to generate concern as an agent of bioterrorism and as a natural cause of sporadic disease outbreaks. Despite the use of appropriate antimicrobial agents and advanced supportive care, the mortality associated with the systemic disease remains high. This is primarily due to the pathogenic exotoxins produced by Bacillus anthracis as well as other virulence factors of the organism. For this reason, new therapeutic strategies that target events in the pathogenesis of anthrax and may potentially augment antimicrobials are being investigated. These include anti-toxin approaches, such as passive immune-based therapies; non-antimicrobial drugs with activity against anthrax toxin components; and agents that inhibit binding, processing, or assembly of toxins. Adjunct therapies that target spore germination or downstream events in anthrax intoxication are also under investigation. In combination, these modalities may enhance the management of systemic anthrax.
Treating hypertension: when to say win.

What do we really know about sympathetic outflow and blood pressure in humans? For example, in healthy normotensive young subjects, baseline sympathetic outflow can vary 2-fold to 3-fold.1,2 We also know that in healthy aging subjects, baseline sympathetic outflow can be increased dramatically with only a modest impact on vascular resistance and little or no impact on blood pressure.1 Additionally, there is no clear evidence for dramatic increases in baseline sympathetic outflow in “garden variety” essential hypertension.1 If we stop here, a position of “nihilism” about sympathetic outflow and blood pressure seems reasonable. However, when the sympathetic nervous system is destroyed by disease or surgery, blood pressure is highly labile.3 We also know that many “stressors” that evoke a pressor response also evoke marked sympathetic activation, and that the magnitude of these pressor responses can be a harbinger of future hypertension.4,5 Finally, in disease states like congestive heart failure, excessive sympathetic activation is a “bad thing.”6,7 If we emphasize these points, sympathetic vasoconstriction seems more important to blood pressure and perhaps survival. …
Flexible piezotronic strain sensor

Strain sensors based on individual ZnO piezoelectric fine-wires (PFWs; nanowires, microwires) have been fabricated by a simple, reliable, and cost-effective technique. The electromechanical sensor device consists of a single electrically connected PFW that is placed on the outer surface of a flexible polystyrene (PS) substrate and bonded at its two ends. The entire device is fully packaged by a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) thin layer. The PFW has Schottky contacts at its two ends but with distinctly different barrier heights. The I-V characteristic is highly sensitive to strain mainly due to the change in Schottky barrier height (SBH), which scales linear with strain. The change in SBH is suggested owing to the strain induced band structure change and piezoelectric effect. The experimental data can be well-described by the thermionic emission-diffusion model. A gauge factor of as high as 1250 has been demonstrated, which is 25% higher than the best gauge factor demonstrated for carbon nanotubes. The strain sensor developed here has applications in strain and stress measurements in cell biology, biomedical sciences, MEMS devices, structure monitoring, and more.
Patterns of Moral Judgment Derive From Nonmoral Psychological Representations

Ordinary people often make moral judgments that are consistent with philosophical principles and legal distinctions. For example, they judge killing as worse than letting die, and harm caused as a necessary means to a greater good as worse than harm caused as a side-effect (Cushman, Young, & Hauser, 2006). Are these patterns of judgment produced by mechanisms specific to the moral domain, or do they derive from other psychological domains? We show that the action/omission and means/side-effect distinctions affect nonmoral representations and provide evidence that their role in moral judgment is mediated by these nonmoral psychological representations. Specifically, the action/omission distinction affects moral judgment primarily via causal attribution, while the means/side-effect distinction affects moral judgment via intentional attribution. We suggest that many of the specific patterns evident in our moral judgments in fact derive from nonmoral psychological mechanisms, and especially from the processes of causal and intentional attribution.
Clinical comparison of 3 products available to hasten ovulation in cyclic mares

Owing to the wide individual variation in estrus duration and ovulation interval in the mare, pharmacologic induction of ovulation is important for breeding situations. Since the 1970s, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) has been demonstrated consistently to induce ovulation and has been used routinely in broodmare practices.1-3 Numerous studies have reported that a high percentage of mares with a follicle ≥35 mm in diameter will ovulate within 48 hours of hCG treatment.1,4-9 Since hCG is a large glycoprotein, repeated doses over the course of a breeding season can result in high antibody levels against hCG.10,11 Some investigators have reported decreasing ovulatory response rates with repeated hCG administration, while others have failed to demonstrate an adverse effect.2,4,11 One advantage of the use of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist to hasten ovulation is that repeated use should not diminish efficacy.12 The GnRH agonist deslorelin (Ovuplant, Fort Dodge Animal Health, Overland Park, KS) was approved for use in mares in the United States in 1999 in the form of a controlled-release subcutaneous implant. When administered to mares with an estral follicle ≥30 mm diameter, Ovuplant induces ovulation within 48 hours on over 88% of cyclic mares.13,14 Using frequent (ie, every 2 h) examinations, McKinnon et al5 reported hCG injection resulted in a shorter interval to ovulation than deslorelin, whereas Samper et al9 reported administration of deslorelin implants resulted in a shorter interval to ovulation. One po-
Adaptive control of large scale systems with reduced models

This paper considers the robust redesign of decentralized adaptive controllers for a class of large scale systems formed of an arbitrary interconnection of subsystems with unknown parameters. In the design, a lower order model is assumed for each decoupled subsystem. However, the overall adaptive control scheme is analyzed in the presence of bounded external disturbances and unmodeled plant uncertainties. It is shown that, by properly choosing some design parameters in the adaptive laws, the decentralized adaptive control scheme is globally stable in the sense that all the signals in the closed loop are bounded for any bounded initial conditions, and the tracking/parameter errors converge to a small residual set.
Antiarrhythmic drugs versus implantable defibrillators: the need for a randomized controlled study.

Abstract The implantable cardiac defibrillator was first used in 1980 and has gained widespread acceptance. However, no randomized controlled trials have been reported that compare the implantable cardiac defibrillator with antiarrhythmic drugs. Most published studies have used historical control subjects or nonrandomized concurrent patients for comparison with patients who received an implantable defibrillator. To reduce bias, studies are needed that compare therapies randomized between antiarrhythmic drugs and implantable defibrillators. The Antiarrhythmics Versus implantable Defibrillators (AVID) Study was designed to evaluate the nonthoracotomy, tiered-therapy implantable defibrillator compared with drug therapy (amiodarone or sotalol). Patients are eligible for randomization if they have a history of recent cardiac arrest caused by ventricular fibrillation or have hemodynamically serious ventricular tachycardia. A pilot study to enroll 200 patients began on June 1, 1993, before the start of the main study of 1000 patients. Analysis of the main study by intention to treat will assess the primary endpoint of total mortality.