cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Induction of Na+/K+ exchange in swollen heart mitochondria.

Heart mitochondria swollen passively in nitrate salts contract in a respiration-dependent reaction which can be attributed to an endogenous cation/H+ exchange component (or components). The rate of contraction increases with increased extent of passive swelling in both Na+ and K+ salts. Since nearly constant internal cation concentrations are maintained during osmotic swelling, this result suggests that both Na+/H+ and K+/H+ exchange is enhanced by increased matrix volume. Endogenous Mg2+ is also lost with increased matrix volume, and this observation, in conjunction with other evidence available in the literature, suggests that monovalent cation/H+ exchanges may be regulated by divalent cations. Passive exchange of Na+/K+,42K+/K+, and24Na+/Na+ can be readily demonstrated in mitochondria swollen in nitrate. All these exchanges are low or not detectable in unswollen control mitochondria, and it appears that they are manifestations of the activated cation/H+ component (or components) functioning in the absence of ΔpH.
Reuse technologies and their niches

This article characterizes various categories of reuse technologies in terms of their underlying architectures, the kinds of problems that they handle well, and the kinds of problems that they do not handle well. It describes their operational envelopes and niches. The emphasis is on generative reuse technologies.
Nitride layers formed by nitrogen implantation with an energy scanning mode

Abstract We reported that a very smooth surface was obtained by room temperature nitrogen implantation into Zr with the energy increasing mode from 35 to 65 keV even with a high dose of 7×1017 ions cm−2 in contrast to the implantation with the energy decreasing mode and 50 keV mono-energy implantation by which many blisters were observed on the surface. In order to understand the mechanism that causes radiation damage, a dynamic Monte Carlo simulation with the dynamic-SASAMAL code was performed for such an energy scanning mode. The movement of the nitrogen at the stage where the excess nitrogen over stoichiometric concentration just starts to migrate towards the surface was carefully analyzed and the results for the energy increasing mode from 15 to 85 keV with a uniform distribution were compared with that of the energy decreasing mode and 50 keV mono-energy implantation. It was found that, when nitrogen concentration exceeds the stoichiometry, the nitrogen that is enforced to migrate towards the surface is not the newly implanted nitrogen but is the previously implanted one which is moved by the newly implanted nitrogen through binary collisions. The moment given through the collision is towards the surface in the energy increasing mode and it will enhance the migration. In contrast to this, the moment is towards the deeper side in the energy decreasing mode and the mono-energetic implantation, so it will disturb the migration and cause nitrogen gas bubble formation which induces the surface radiation damage with many blisters. Finally, it is proposed that a thick nitride layer without surface damage can be obtained by the energy increasing mode implantation with an adequate energy distribution.
Pay Equity and Wage Justice

Pay equity job evaluations remove some wage bias, but do not resolve class inequalities. It is "socially efficient" to require capital to meet a democratic standard of wage justice, which would require firms to continuously upgrade job values, eliminate unskilled work, reduce hours of work, and pay a high minimum wage. Requiring firms to upgrade and equalize job structures builds on the pay equity argument and addresses both discrimination and class issues.
Epitaxial growth of molybdenum on the α-iron (111) surface studied by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and ion channelling

In the present study, the authors demonstrated that, despite a 10% lattice mismatch, good-quality epitaxial Mo films can also be grown on the (111) surface of epitaxial α-Fe films on Si(111) by electron beam evaporation in ultrahigh vacuum at a substrate temperature as low as 300K
The cinema of Sergei Parajanov

Born in Tbilisi, Sergei Parajanov directed two magnificent films, one in Ukraine (Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors, 1965) and one in Armenia (The Colour of Pomegranates, 1968). At various times he wa...
Left-sided esophageal indentation in right aortic arch with aberrant left subclavian artery.

PURPOSE: To determine the structures responsible for the left-sided indentation in right aortic arch (RAA) with aberrant left subclavian artery (ALSA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging was performed in five patients with RAA with ALSA in whom barium esophagography demonstrated a left-sided defect at the level of the aortic arch. RESULTS: In four patients, the aortic diverticulum (dorsal aortic root remnant) extended to the left of the esophagus, explaining the left-sided indentation. In one of those four patients, the ALSA contributed to this defect. In only one patient was no patent vascular structure identified to the left of the esophagus, and it was assumed that the ligamentum arteriosum alone produced this defect. CONCLUSION: The aortic diverticulum appears to be an important factor in the production of the left-sided esophageal defect in patients with RAA with ALSA.
Lymphotoxin-LIGHT Pathway Regulates the Interferon Signature in Rheumatoid Arthritis

A subset of patients with autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and lupus appear to be exposed continually to interferon (IFN) as evidenced by elevated expression of IFN induced genes in blood cells. In lupus, detection of endogenous chromatin complexes by the innate sensing machinery is the suspected driver for the IFN, but the actual mechanisms remain unknown in all of these diseases. We investigated in two randomized clinical trials the effects on RA patients of baminercept, a lymphotoxin-beta receptor-immunoglobulin fusion protein that blocks the lymphotoxin-αβ/LIGHT axis. Administration of baminercept led to a reduced RNA IFN signature in the blood of patients with elevated baseline signatures. Both RA and SLE patients with a high IFN signature were lymphopenic and lymphocyte counts increased following baminercept treatment of RA patients. These data demonstrate a coupling between the lymphotoxin-LIGHT system and IFN production in rheumatoid arthritis. IFN induced retention of lymphocytes within lymphoid tissues is a likely component of the lymphopenia observed in many autoimmune diseases. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00664716.
Prevalence estimation for monogenic autosomal recessive diseases using population-based genetic data

Genetic methods can complement epidemiological surveys and clinical registries in determining prevalence of monogenic autosomal recessive diseases. Several large population-based genetic databases, such as the NHLBI GO Exome Sequencing Project, are now publically available. By assuming Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, the frequency of individuals homozygous in the general population for a particular pathogenic allele can be directly calculated from a sample of chromosomes where some harbor the pathogenic allele. Further assuming that the penetrance of the pathogenic allele(s) is known, the prevalence of recessive phenotypes can be determined. Such work can inform public health efforts for rare recessive diseases. A Bayesian estimation procedure has yet to be applied to the problem of estimating disease prevalence from large population-based genetic data. A Bayesian framework is developed to derive the posterior probability density of monogenic, autosomal recessive phenotypes. Explicit equations are presented for the credible intervals of these disease prevalence estimates. A primary impediment to performing accurate disease prevalence calculations is the determination of truly pathogenic alleles. This issue is discussed, but in many instances remains a significant barrier to investigations solely reliant on statistical interrogation--functional studies can provide important information for solidifying evidence of variant pathogenicity. We also discuss several challenges to these efforts, including the population structure in the sample of chromosomes, the treatment of allelic heterogeneity, and reduced penetrance of pathogenic variants. To illustrate the application of these methods, we utilized recently published genetic data collected on a large sample from the Schmiedeleut Hutterites. We estimate prevalence and calculate 95% credible intervals for 13 autosomal recessive diseases using these data. In addition, the Bayesian estimation procedure is applied to data from a central European study of hereditary fructose intolerance. The methods described herein show a viable path to robustly estimating both the expected prevalence of autosomal recessive phenotypes and corresponding credible intervals using population-based genetic databases that have recently become available. As these genetic databases increase in number and size with the advent of cost-effective next-generation sequencing, we anticipate that these methods and approaches may be helpful in recessive disease prevalence calculations, potentially impacting public health management, health economic analyses, and treatment of rare diseases.
FDA perspective on ultrasound contrast agents safety and development

Regulatory actions through 2007-2008 demonstrate FDA's response to multiple reports of sudden death and severe cardiopulmonary reactions temporally related to the administration of Ultrasound Contrast Agents (UCA). Certain animal data showed similar adverse effects at a clinically relevant dose. The products labels were changed to include the boxed warning encouraging healthcare providers to assess patients for contraindications and to monitor patients with pulmonary hypertension or unstable cardiac conditions. To further characterize risks, the manufacturers agreed to perform postmarketing studies in the outpatient setting, a retrospective study in the critically ill and a pulmonary hemodynamic study.
Removal of Lead (II) Ions by Poly(2‐octadecyl butanedioic acid): Isothermal and Kinetic Studies

Poly(2‐octadecyl‐butanedioic acid), prepared from polyanhydride PA‐18, possesses novel heavy metal adsorption characteristics. The adsorption capacity of this water insoluble polymer for lead (II) was substantially higher than other heterogeneous adsorbants and is equivalent to those obtained with homogeneous sorbants. The polymer exhibited pseudo‐second‐order kinetics and nearly complete adsorption of lead occurred in 15 min with initial lead (II) concentrations greater than 100 mg · L−1. Adsorptive behavior was accurately predicted by the Dubinin‐Radushkevich isotherm model. The mean free energy of adsorption of lead (II) onto poly(2‐octadecyl‐butanedioic acid) was determined to be 31.6 kJ · mol−1, suggesting an ion exchange component to the adsorption mechanism. Gibb's free energy values for this process indicate that it is spontaneous. Adsorption was relatively independent of pH in the range of 3–5, due to the utilization of the sodium carboxylate form of the chelating groups, and was not influenced b...
Associations between the prenatal environment and cardiovascular risk factors in adolescent girls: Internalizing and externalizing behavior symptoms as mediators

This longitudinal study examines links among adolescent internalizing and externalizing symptoms, the prenatal environment (e.g., nicotine exposure) and pre/perinatal maternal health, and cardiovascular risk factors. Girls (N = 262) ages 11–17 reported internalizing and externalizing behaviors and mothers reported about the prenatal environment and maternal health during pregnancy and 3 months post-pregnancy. Adolescent cardiovascular risk included adiposity, smoking, blood pressure, and salivary C-reactive protein. Internalizing symptoms mediated relations between prenatal exposures/maternal health and adiposity; externalizing symptoms mediated relations between prenatal exposures and adolescent smoking. Health care providers who attend to internalizing and externalizing symptoms in girls may ultimately influence cardiovascular health, especially among those with pre/perinatal risk factors.
Should I call now? understanding what context is considered when deciding whether to initiate remote communication via mobile devices

Requests for communication via mobile devices can be disruptive to the current task or social situation. To reduce the frequency of disruptive requests, one promising approach is to provide callers with cues of a receiver's context through an awareness display, allowing informed decisions of when to call. Existing displays typically provide cues based on what can be readily sensed, which may not match what is needed during the call decision process. In this paper, we report results of a four week diary study of mobile phone usage, where users recorded what context information they considered when making a call, and what information they wished others had considered when receiving a call. Our results were distilled into lessons that can be used to improve the design of awareness displays for mobile devices, e.g., show frequency of a receiver's recent communication and distance from a receiver to her phone. We discuss technologies that can enable cues indicated in these lessons to be realized within awareness displays, as well as discuss limitations of such displays and issues of privacy.
On the transition from paraffinic to polymeric behavior: Mechanical properties

An attempt has been made to determine what influence chain folds may have on the α and γ mechanical loss peaks in linear polyethylene. In so doing, one long-chain n-paraffin (C94H190) and two low molecular weight polyethylene fractions have been examined with mechanical relaxation, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and low-angle x-ray diffraction techniques. The data suggest that chain folds play a prominent role in both the α and γ processes but that other factors such as polydispersity and/or branching are also important.
A Sociological Basis for Music Education

This paper seeks to illustrate that the social contributions of music education are vital to the justification of music in the schools. This position is based on the following: 1) Music behaviors a...
Improving or Impairing? Following Technology Transfer Changes at the University of Cambridge

Breznitz S. M. Improving or impairing? Following technology transfer changes at the University of Cambridge, Regional Studies. At academic and policy levels, universities are finding themselves in heated debate about their role in fostering entrepreneurship and local economic growth. Theories that encourage university involvement in the region perceive a straightforward positive correlation between the level of the university contribution and industrial growth in the region. Accordingly, the adaptation of a successful model will have positive results on local economic growth. Utilizing a case study of the University of Cambridge, this paper contends that the impact on regional economies depends on universities' resources, policies, and organization, as well as on industry's response to the knowledge and innovation generated. Breznitz S. M. Ameliorer ou affaiblir? Suivre l'evolution du transfert technologique a l'Universite de Cambridge, Regional Studies. Aux niveaux academique et de politique, les univers...
Gas Phase Chemistry And Transport Phenomena In MOCVD Reactors

Gas phase chemistry and transport phenomena in MOCVD are addressed. A new MOCVD reactor arrangement for exploring the gas phase chemistry by in situ molecular beam mass spectrometry is presented along with pyrolysis data for Ga(CH3)3, Ga(C2H5)3 and As(CH3)3. Detailed two- and three-dimensional models of the classical horizontal and vertical MOCVD reactor configurations are described. These models provide new insight into flow, heat and mass transfer effects on film thickness uniformity and interface abruptness. For the horizontal reactor, model simulations demonstrate the existence of longitudinal buoyancy driven convection rolls which adversely affect film thickness uniformity. For the vertical reactor, the film thickness uniformity is shown to be strongly influenced by susceptor edge, reactor wall, and buoyancy effects. It is demonstrated that uniformity may be improved by shaping the reactor wall and rotating the susceptor. The existence of multiple steady flows in certain operating regions is illustrated. Concentration transients in the growth of heterojunctions are simulated and it is shown that the presence of recirculation cells widens the interface depth.
Clinical management of women with genomic BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations.

Purpose. There is increasing evidence that BRCA1 and BRCA2 associated tumors may differ from sporadic cancers. The purpose of this report is to review the current state of knowledge of BRCA1 and BRCA2, the biology of associated tumors, and possible risk reduction strategies in women with these deleterious mutations. Design and methods. We conducted an extensive literature search of all published articles (including Medline) on preclinical data on the function of BRCA1 and BRCA2, associated tumor pathology, and the clinical management for both unaffected carriers and affected patients. Results. BRCA1 and BRCA2 are likely to act as tumor suppressor genes, and together with RAD51 operate in a common DNA damage response pathway implicated in double-strand repair. Breast cancers associated with BRCA1 are frequently of a higher grade, steroid hormone receptor negative, and appear to have a higher proportion of atypical or typical medullary subtype. Conversely, BRCA2 associated breast cancers do not differ significantly from sporadic cancers. No special tumor phenotype has been ascribed to BRCA1 or BRCA2 associated ovarian cancers. Guidelines for risk reduction strategies for the high risk unaffected carrier have been recommended by expert panels in the USA and Europe. Lifestyle changes, multi-modality screening, chemoprevention, and prophylactic oophorectomy and mastectomy, with their possible benefits and attendant risks are described. Finally, locoregional and systemic treatment in breast and ovarian cancers associated with these mutations, and differences between these and sporadic cancers are discussed. Conclusions. Although the incidence of breast or ovarian cancers that can be attributed to BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations account for less than 5% of all cancers, these cancers may differ from sporadic cases in terms of tumor biology and phenotype. These differences may impact directly on clinical management of breast and ovarian cancer patients, and their relatives. Further recommendations of these patients are constantly changing as new information emerges on the clinical behavior of these cancers.
The Mock Trial: A Dynamic Exercise for Thinking Critically About Management Theories, Topics, and Practices

The Mock Trial is an experiential exercise adapted from a law school process that encourages students to think critically about theories, topics, and the practice of management in an innovative cla...
The complexity of multi-agent plan recognition

Multi-agent plan recognition (MAPR) seeks to identify the dynamic team structures and team plans from observations of the action sequences of a set of intelligent agents, based on a library of known team plans (plan library), and an evaluation function. It has important applications in decision support, team work, analyzing data from automated monitoring, surveillance, and intelligence analysis in general. We introduce a general model for MAPR that accommodates different representations of the plan library, and includes single agent plan recognition as a special case. Thus it provides an ideal substrate to investigate and contrast the complexities of single and multi-agent plan recognition. Using this model we generate theoretical insights on hardness, with practical implications. A key feature of these results is that they are baseline, i.e., the polynomial solvability results are given in terms of a compact and expressive plan language (context free language), while the hardness results are given in terms of a less compact language. Consequently the hardness results continue to hold in virtually all realistic plan languages, while the polynomial solvability results extend to the subsets of the context free plan language. In particular, we show that MAPR is in P (polynomial in the size of the plan library and the observation trace) if the number of agents is fixed (in particular 1) but NP-complete otherwise. If the number of agents is a variable, then even the one step MAPR problem is NP-complete. While these results pertain to abduction, we also investigate a related question: adaptation, i.e., the problem of refining the evaluation function based on feedback. We show that adaptation is also NP-hard for a variable number of agents, but easy for a single agent. These results establish a clear distinction between the hardnesses of single and multi-agent plan recognition even in idealized settings, indicating the necessity of a fundamentally different set of techniques for the latter.
Noise reduction for enhanced component identification in multi-dimensional biomolecular NMR studies

The objective of the research presented in this paper is to shed light into the benefits of multi-dimensional wavelet-based methodology applied to NMR biomolecular data analysis. Specifically, the emphasis is on noise reduction for enhanced component identification in multi-dimensional mixture regression. The contributions of this research are multi-fold. First, the wavelet-based noise reduction method applies to multi-dimensional data whereas most of the existing work focuses on one- or two-dimensional data only. The proposed wavelet-based methodology is founded on rigorous analysis of the dependence between wavelet coefficients, an important aspect of multi-dimensional wavelet de-noising. The wavelet de-noising rule is based on Stein's unbiased risk estimator (SURE) where the smoothness thresholds vary with the resolution level and orientation of the wavelet transform and selected by controlling the False Discovery Rate of the significant wavelet coefficients. Second, this paper highlights the application of the wavelet methodology to multi-dimensional NMR data analysis for protein structure determination. The noise reduction method is general and applicable to multi-dimensional data arising in many other research fields, prominently in biology science. Our empirical investigation shows that reducing the noise using the method in this paper results in more detectable true components and fewer false positives without altering the shape of the significant components.
Mitochondrial enzyme retention by irreversibly damaged rectangular isolated adult rat heart myocytes.

Abstract A one hour hypoxic incubation causes the release of a small but significant amount of cytosolic lactic dehydrogenase from glucose-deprived isolated adult rat heart myocytes. However, enzymes associated with the mitochondria are not liberated, and there is no increase in the number of hypercontracted cells. These observations led Piper et al . (Life Sciences 35 , 127–134 [1984]) to conclude that reversibly injured myocytes can release cytosolic proteins. This conclusion was based on the supposition that irreversibly hypoxic injury must cause mitochondrial enzyme efflux and hypercontracture. The present study establishes that this supposition is invalid.
Calculations of combined stellarator-multipole toroidal magnetic field configurations

Numerical computation of closed, vacuum magnetic field configurations is discussed. Comparisons are made of several representations of the fields of various stellarator systems. The calculations are extended to evaluate hybrid configurations which incorporate both stellarator-like fields and axisymmetric fields. Results are given to show that large shear, large rotational transform, and large magnetic-well depth can be obtained.
Integration of biological knowledge and gene expression data for biomarker selection: FN1 as a potential predictor of radiation resistance in head and neck cancer

Commentary to: Fibronectin 1 is a potential biomarker for radioresistance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma Fredrik Jerhammar, Rebecca Ceder, Stina Garvin, Reidar Gr
Imaginative Science: The interactions of Henry Sweet’s linguistic thought and E. B. Tylor’s anthropology

This article traces the interactions between the philologist and applied linguist Henry Sweet (1845–1912) and the anthropologist and evolutionist E. B. Tylor (1832–1917). Tylor was impressed by Sweet’s uniformitarian views on phonetic synthesis and word-division: that phonetic and grammatical processes observable in the present could be used to explain grammatical formation and inflection in the past. Conversely, Sweet’s views on language and its origins owe much to Tylor’s intellectualism and his doctrine of survivals. According to Tylor, ‘primitive man’ employed rational thought in his attempts to make intellectual sense of the world and its phenomena. In expressions such as ‘the sun rises’, vestiges of this primitive thought and animism then survive in the lexis and syntax of later, modern languages. Sweet used Tylorian material in his language textbooks, and the intellectualist theory was taken up by literary critics in the 1880s, e.g., in the Shelley Society — of which Sweet was a founding member, in order to explore the roots of poetic metaphor and figurative language as used in modern English poetry.
Cytochrome b5 and NADH-cytochrome-b5 reductase from sipunculan erythrocytes; a methemerythrin reduction system from Phascolopsis gouldii.

Abstract We report the purification and characterization of a soluble cytochrome b 5 from coelomic erythrocytes of the sipunculan worm, Phascolopsis gouldii . We also report the isolation and purification of a membrane-bound NADH-cytochrome- b 5 reductase from these erythrocytes. The non-heme iron protein, hemerythrin (Hr), is known to be the oxygen carrier in these erythrocytes. The aforementioned purified cytochrome b 5 and reductase together catalyze the reduction of P. gouldii [Fe(III),Fe(III)]metHr to [Fe(II),Fe(II)deoxyHr by NADH. EPR spectroscopy demonstrates that a redox process involving formation of the intermediate [Fe(II),Fe(III)]semi-metHr occurs within intact sipunculan erythrocytes as well as in the system of purified components. The rhombic g -tensor of the EPR signal in both cases resembles that of (semi-met) R Hr, the form obtained by one-electron reduction of metHr. These observations suggest that cytochrome b 5 and NADH-cytochrome- b 5 reductase in sipunculan erythrocytes function to counteract autoxidation of oxyHr. The sequence of electron flow in the system of purified components is: NADH → NADH-cytochrome- b 5 reductase → cytochrome b 5 → metHr. At pH 7.5, the reduction of metHr in this system occurs in two phases, only the first of which is dependent on concentration of cytochrome b 5 . From an analysis of the kinetics and the EPR time-course, we propose that the two phases represent sequential reduction of met- to semi-metHr and reduction of semi-metHr to deoxyHr. This report represents the first demonstration of a physiological system for reduction of metHr.
Genotype and environment determine allocation to and costs of resistance in quaking aspen

Although genetic variability and resource availability both influence plant chemical composition, little is known about how these factors interact to modulate costs of resistance, expressed as negative correlations between growth and defense. We evaluated genotype x environment effects on foliar chemistry and growth of quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) by growing multiple aspen genotypes under variable conditions of light and soil nutrient availability in a common garden. Foliage was analyzed for levels of nitrogen, phenolic glycosides and condensed tannins. Bioassays of leaf quality were conducted with fourth-stadium gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) larvae. Results revealed strong effects of plant genotype, light availability and nutrient availability; the importance of each factor depended upon compound type. For example, tannin concentrations differed little among genotypes and across nutrient regimes under low light conditions, but markedly so under high light conditions. Phenolic glycoside concentrations, in contrast, were largely determined by genotype. Variation in phenolic glycoside concentrations among genotypes was the most important factor affecting gypsy moth performance. Gypsy moth biomass and development time were negatively and positively correlated, respectively, with phenolic glycoside levels. Allocation to phenolic glycosides appeared to be costly in terms of growth, but only under resource-limiting conditions. Context-dependent trade-offs help to explain why costs of allocation to resistance are often difficult to demonstrate.
Interpenetrating polymer networks of poly(carbonate‐urethane) and polystyrene

Simultaneous two-component interpenetrating polymer networks (IPN's), pseudo IPN's, and linear blends of urethane-containing aliphatic polycarbonate (PCU) and polystyrene (PS) have been synthesized and characterized. The simultaneous full IPN's of PCU and PS had one Tg only at compositions above 50 wt % PCU, as determined by DSC and DMA. The single phase morphology in the one Tg region was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). However, the pseudo IPN's and linear blends of PCU and PS exhibited multiple (melting and glass) transitions by DSC measurements and phase separation was observed by TEM over the whole composition range. The full IPN's exhibited a maximum in ultimate mechanical properties at an intermediate composition. Superior solvent resistance as well as better thermal stability was shown by the IPN's as compared to the pseudo IPN's linear blends, and pure crosslinked components.
Design and performance of CMOS micromechanical resonator oscillators

A completely monolithic high-Q oscillator, fabricated via a combined CMOS plus surface micromachining technology, is described, for which the oscillation frequency is controlled by a polysilicon micromechanical resonator to achieve high stability. It is shown that the closed-loop, steady-state oscillation amplitude of this oscillator can be controlled through the dc-bias voltage applied to the capacitively driven and sensed /spl mu/resonator. Brownian motion and mass loading phenomena are shown to have a greater influence on short-term stability in this micro-scale. >
PhenoFluor: Practical Synthesis, New Formulation, and Deoxyfluorination of Heteroaromatics

We report a practical synthesis method of the reagent PhenoFluor on decagram scale, provide a new formulation of PhenoFluor as a toluene solution, which should decrease challenges associated with the moisture sensitivity of the reagent, and expand the substrate scope of deoxyfluorination with PhenoFluor to heteroaromatics.
Chip package co-design of the RF front end with an integrated antenna on multilayered organic material

To better understand the impact of noise on an RF front end, a sensitivity analysis must be performed in both the frequency and time domains for each element and for the system. This paper illustrates the design and sensitivity analysis of a microstrip patch antenna and an embedded passive matching circuit on multi-layered organic (MLO) material. To study the chip package co-design issues, the effect of a transient on the antenna's input and radiation characteristics and on the matching circuit have been evaluated using a sinusoid of 5 cycles applied to circuitry in close proximity to these. It is shown that the coupling to the antenna affects the radiation characteristics significantly. By placing sections of grounded transmission lines it has been demonstrated that the effect of the transient can be detuned.
Clinical Guide to ABO-Incompatible Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation

Abstract The independent genomic inheritance of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and the ABO-blood group system allows for HLA-matched hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation (HCT) to occur in donors who are not matched for ABO blood groups. In fact, nearly one-half of all HCT will involve recipient–donor ABO incompatibility. This places the recipient at increased risk for acute and delayed hemolytic reactions, delayed RBC engraftment, and pure red blood cell aplasia. Additionally, clinical and laboratory evaluation for potential non-ABO, minor RBC antigen-antibody discrepancies may be beneficial to facilitate safe transfusions before, during, and after transplantation. In addition to posing potential clinical risks, analyses of outcomes in ABO-incompatible HCT have yielded inconsistent results with respect to overall survival, relapse risk, incidence of acute or chronic graft-versus-host disease, and engraftment of platelets and granulocytes. As such, pretransplantation donor–recipient evaluation and management for ABO-incompatible HCT requires adopting unique strategies when major, minor, and bidirectional differences exist. These strategies have the potential to improve patient outcomes and allow for effective management of the blood bank inventory. The purpose of this article is to describe practical approaches to screening for and managing ABO-incompatible HCT, with the goal of reducing preventable morbidity and mortality after transplantation.
Serum Metabolite Profiles and Target Tissue Gene Expression Define the Effect of Cholecalciferol Intake on Calcium Metabolism in Rats and Mice

We studied the effect of cholecalciferol (VD3) intake on VD3 status and markers of calcium (Ca) homeostasis in mice and rats. Serum 25 hydroxycholecalciferol (25OH-VD3) concentrations were increased in animals fed diets containing 400-20,000 international units (IU) VD3/kg (37 nmol.L(-1).1000 IU VD3(-1)), but body weight, serum Ca, and duodenal gene expression were not altered. High-VD3 intake decreased serum 1, 25-dihydroxycholecalciferol [1,25(OH)2-VD3] and renal 25 hydroxycholecalciferol-1alphahydroxylase (CYP27B1) mRNA, suggesting that rodents tolerate high-VD3 intake by suppressing the activity of the VD3 endocrine system. Serum 25OH-VD3 declined when animals were fed diets containing 1000 to 25 IU VD3/kg (9-11 wk, inflection at 200 IU/kg, 4-fold steeper slope below this). Neither body weight nor serum Ca were influenced by low-VD3 intake. However, mice fed the 25-IU/kg diet had lower serum 1,25(OH)2-VD3, duodenal calbindin D9k mRNA, bone mineral density, and renal 25 hydroxycholecalciferol-24 hydroxylase mRNA, whereas renal CYP27B1 mRNA was elevated when rodents were fed < 200 IU VD3/kg. These data reveal a stress on VD3 and Ca metabolism at low dietary VD3 intake. Dietary Ca restriction (0.25 vs. 0.5%, 9 wk) increased serum 1,25(OH)2-VD3 and was 30% greater in rats fed a 10,000-IU VD3/kg diet. High-VD3 intake did not prevent Ca restriction-induced bone loss. Our data show that modeling human VD3 status requires lower intake than the current NRC rodent requirement (1000-IU/kg diet). Also, although rodents are very tolerant of high-VD3 intake, it cannot compensate for moderate Ca restriction.
The Endowment Decision: An Exercise in Negotiation and Conflict Management

Organizations as learning institutions are dependent on the degree to which they are able to encourage collective thinking. Although collaboration, for the most part, is seen as the vehicle to accomplish this goal, roadblocks can hinder the process. This exercise places students in both competitive and collaborative situations, creates constraints to collective thinking, and asks them to develop negotiation and conflict handling strategies to overcome these hurdles.
Animal models of listeriosis: a comparative review of the current state of the art and lessons learned

Listeriosis is a leading cause of hospitalization and death due to foodborne illness in the industrialized world. Animal models have played fundamental roles in elucidating the pathophysiology and immunology of listeriosis, and will almost certainly continue to be integral components of the research on listeriosis. Data derived from animal studies helped for example characterize the importance of cell-mediated immunity in controlling infection, allowed evaluation of chemotherapeutic treatments for listeriosis, and contributed to quantitative assessments of the public health risk associated with L. monocytogenes contaminated food commodities. Nonetheless, a number of pivotal questions remain unresolved, including dose-response relationships, which represent essential components of risk assessments. Newly emerging data about species-specific differences have recently raised concern about the validity of most traditional animal models of listeriosis. However, considerable uncertainty about the best choice of animal model remains. Here we review the available data on traditional and potential new animal models to summarize currently recognized strengths and limitations of each model. This knowledge is instrumental for devising future studies and for interpreting current data. We deliberately chose a historical, comparative and cross-disciplinary approach, striving to reveal clues that may help predict the ultimate value of each animal model in spite of incomplete data.
Unhealthy interactions: the role of stereotype threat in health disparities.

Stereotype threat is the unpleasant psychological experience of confronting negative stereotypes about race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or social status.Hundreds of published studies show how the experience of stereotype threat can impair intellectual functioning and interfere with test and school performance. Numerous published interventions derived from this research have improved the performance and motivation of individuals targeted by low-ability stereotypes.Stereotype threat theory and research provide a useful lens for understanding and reducing the negative health consequences of interracial interactions for African Americans and members of similarly stigmatized minority groups. Here we summarize the educational outcomes of stereotype threat and examine the implications of stereotype threat for health and health-related behaviors.
ASPECTS OF THE ETIOLOGY, PREDICTION, AND PREVENTION OF INSULIN-DEPENDENT DIABETES MELLITUS IN CHILDHOOD

This article focuses on recent developments that have defined the autoimmune nature of this entity and its genetic basis, especially the crucial roles of aspartic acid at position 57 of the DQ beta chain and arginine at position 52 of the DQ alpha chain of the HLA complex on chromosome 6 in conferring susceptibility; other genetic markers on other genes are mentioned. These genetic markers help to explain the worldwide differences in prevalence and incidence of type 1 diabetes. Because the autoimmune process may be gradual, markers of beta pancreatic cell damage, such as islet cell antibodies, glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies, and insulin autoantibodies, coupled with evidence of progressive failure of insulin secretion may be used to predict the future onset of disease. In turn, accurate prediction may permit preventive intervention. Two intervention trials are mentioned: (1) Diabetes Prevention Trial for Type 1, a multicenter trial in the United States using insulin; and (2) European Nicotinamide Diabetes Intervention Trial in Europe using nicotinamide as the preventive or delaying agent. These first steps reflect the remarkable progress and understanding of this major problem of childhood and the hopes for its future prevention.
Effets de la crise mondiale sur la performance des régimes de retraite, par répartition et financés par l'impôt, en Amérique centrale

Resume Durant les trente dernieres annees, l'Amerique latine a mis en œuvre des reformes structurelles des regimes de retraite. Cet article traite des regimes de retraite par repartition et finances par l'impot, ainsi que des reformes recemment introduites dans ce domaine, dans un echantillon representatif de sept pays d'Amerique ayant des niveaux inegaux de developpement (Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua et Panama). Il evalue la performance de ces regimes en regard de cinq principes de la securite sociale: degre d'integration; universalite de la couverture; adequation des prestations; egalite de traitement, solidarite sociale et egalite entre les sexes; viabilite financiere. L'article analyse egalement l'impact de la crise mondiale sur ces regimes de retraite, souligne les differences entre les programmes publics et prives, tire certains enseignements du passe et propose des politiques pour l'avenir.
Hepatic de novo lipogenesis in normoinsulinemic and hyperinsulinemic subjects consuming high-fat, low-carbohydrate and low-fat, high-carbohydrate isoenergetic diets

Background: Hypertriglyceridemia is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Until recently, the importance of hepatic de novo lipogenesis (DNL) in contributing to hypertriglyceridemia was difficult to assess because of methodologic limitations. Objective: We evaluated the extent of the contribution by DNL to different conditions associated with hypertriglyceridemia. Design: After 5 d of an isoenergetic high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, fasting DNL was measured in normoinsulinemic (≤ 85 pmol/L) lean (n = 9) and obese (n = 6) and hyperinsulinemic (≥ 115 pmol/L) obese (n = 8) subjects. Fasting DNL was measured after a low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet in normoinsulinemic lean (n = 5) and hyperinsulinemic obese (n = 5) subjects. Mass isotopomer distribution analysis was used to measure the fraction of newly synthesized fatty acids in VLDL-triacylglycerol. Results: With the high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, hyperinsulinemic obese subjects had a 3.7-5.3-fold higher fractional DNL (8.5 ± 0.7%) than did normoinsulinemic lean (1.6 ± 0.5%) or obese (2.3 ± 0.3%) subjects. With the low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet, normoinsulinemic lean and hyperinsulinemic obese subjects had similarly high fractional DNL (13 ± 5.1% and 12.8 ± 1.4%, respectively). Compared with baseline, consumption of the high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet did not affect triacylglycerol concentrations. However, after the low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet, triacylglycerols increased significantly and DNL was 5-6-fold higher than in normoinsulinemic subjects consuming a high-fat diet. The increase in triacylglycerol after the low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet was correlated with fractional DNL (P < 0.01), indicating that subjects with high DNL had the greatest increase in triacylglycerols. Conclusions: These results support the concept that both hyperinsulinemia and a low-fat diet increase DNL, and that DNL contributes to hypertriglyceridemia.
Acute varicella zoster with postherpetic hyperhidrosis as the initial presentation of HIV infection

Abstract A 31-year-old man presented with acute pain in his left arm and hemorrhagic vesicles that followed his left 8th cervical nerve. A diagnosis of herpes zoster was made, and the patient was treated with valacyclovir. He refused testing for antibodies to HIV because he denied being at risk. Two months later he returned with postherpetic neuralgia and postherpetic hyperhidrosis in the distribution of the vesicles, which had since resolved. Serology for HIV at this visit was positive, and the patient admitted to having sexual relations with prostitutes. Six months later the patient was being treated with triple antiretroviral therapy, and all signs and symptoms of postherpetic zoster had resolved. This case report documents the need for HIV testing in patients with unusual presentations of herpes zoster even if they initially deny being at risk. (J Am Acad Dermatol 1999;41:119-21.)
Observations on the effects of natural oil seeps in the Coal Oil Point area

Available data from population, community, and ecosystem studies from an area of natural marine oil seepage, Coal Oil Point, California, are reviewed and a hypothesis presented to explain the information. This suggests a relation that exists through time and space. Exposure to a large volume of petroleum results initially in total or almost total destruction of all organisms, followed by a stimulatory period, followed by a gradual return to `normal'. The time taken for these cycles varies with species, and initial impact varies with the exposure to petroleum. The Coal Oil Point area is a mosaic of small units that are at different stages in this process owing to the patchy distribution of petroleum in space and time, patchiness of habitats, and patchiness of species distribution. This is a possible explanation for the apparent overall enrichment observed in some communities in the area.
Functional expression of system x(c)- is upregulated by asbestos but not crystalline silica in murine macrophages.

Context: Inhalation of asbestos or silica is associated with chronic and progressive diseases, including fibrosis, cancer, and increased risk of systemic autoimmunity. Because there is a need for treatment options for these diseases, a better understanding of their mechanistic etiologies is essential. While oxidative stress in macrophages is an early consequence of these exposures, it may also serve as a signaling mechanism involved in downstream immune dysregulation. The system xc− exchange protein is induced by oxidative stress, and exchanges equimolor levels of extracellular cystine for intracellular glutamate. Cystine is subsequently reduced to cysteine, the rate-limiting precursor for glutathione synthesis.Objective: As the primary transporter responsible for cystine/glutamate exchange on macrophages, system xc− was hypothesized to be inducible in response to asbestos and silica, and to increase viability through protection from oxidative stress.Results: When challenged with amphibole asbestos, but n...
Airborne Surveillance and Separation Assurance Processing

The Aircraft Surveillance Applications System (ASAS) consists of an Airborne Surveillance and Separation Assurance Processor (ASSAP) and Cockpit Display of Traffic Information (CDTI). While supporting generation of the Minimum Operational Performance Standards (MOPS) for ASAS, the MITRE Corporation developed a high level functional architecture and low level algorithms for the ASSAP subsystem. The sample ASSAP algorithms have been implemented in MATLAB, along with a high fidelity representation of the CDTI. The cumulative ASAS simulation has been tested and refined with a number of data sources, including operational surveillance data from flight tests performed at the William J. Hughes [FAA] Technical Center in July of 2007 and synthesized data derived from Area Navigation (RNAV) tracks recorded at Hartsfield - Jackson Atlanta International Airport in 2006. This paper describes an abbreviated ASSAP architecture in detail and presents simulation results used to formulate the subsystem standards.