cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mutations in a steroid hormone-regulated gene disrupt the metamorphosis of the central nervous system in Drosophila

The actions of steroid hormones on vertebrate and invertebrate nervous systems include alterations in neuronal architecture, regulation of neuronal differentiation, and programmed cell death. In particular, central nervous system (CNS) metamorphosis in insects requires a precise pattern of exposure to the steroid molting hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone (ecdysterone). To test whether the effects of steroid hormones on the insect nervous system are due to changes in patterns of gene expression, we examined Drosophila mutants of the ecdysterone-regulated locus, the Broad Complex (BR-C). This report documents aspects of CNS reorganization which are dependent on BR-C function. During wild-type metamorphosis, CNS components undergo dramatic morphogenetic movements relative to each other and to the body wall. These movements, in particular, the separation of the subesophageal ganglion from the thoracic ganglion, the positioning of the developing visual system, and the fusion of right and left brain hemispheres, are deranged in BR-C mutants. In addition, a subset of mutants shows disorganization of optic lobe neuropil, both within and among optic lobe ganglia. Optic lobe disorganization is found in mutants of the br and l(1)2Bc complementation groups, but not in those of the rbp complementation group. This suggests that the three complementation groups of this complex locus represent distinct but overlapping functions necessary for normal CNS reorganization. This study demonstrates that ecdysterone-regulated gene expression is essential for CNS metamorphosis, illustrating the utility of Drosophila as a model system for investigating the genetic basis of steroid hormone action on the nervous system.
Localized orbitals and the Fermi hole

The relationship between localized orbitals and the Fermi hole is demonstrated with contour maps of the Fermi hole in the water molecule. These contour maps indicate the presence of regions in which the Fermi hole is relatively stable, regions in which the shape of the Fermi hole changes rapidly, and regions in which the Fermi hole follows the probe electron smoothly. If a single orbital dominates any region of space, the Fermi hole resembles that orbital for any position of the probe electron in the dominated region.
Anévrismes de l'artère rénale : résultats des traitements endovasculaire et chirurgical dans l'Etat de New York

L'objectif de cette etude etait d'evaluer les evolutions therapeutiques des anevrismes de l'artere renale (AAR) dans l'Etat de New York (ENY) et d'en analyser les resultats. Une etude retrospective de cohorte des patients ayant beneficie du traitement d'un anevrisme d'une artere renale dans l'ENY du 1er Octobre 2000 au 31 Decembre 2006 a ete conduite a partir des donnees d'un registre regional. Des modeles de regression incluant des caracteristiques propres aux hopitaux et aux patients ont ete utilises afin d'identifier des facteurs predictifs de complications des traitements endovasculaire et par chirurgie ouverte. Pendant la periode de l'etude, 215 patients ayant ete traite pour un AAR ont ete analyses. En analyse multivariee, les facteurs predictifs de deces etaient l'existence d'un diabete (odds ratio ajuste [OR] = 57,8; intervalle de confiance a 95% [CI]: 2,3-1430,1; p = 0,013), la presence d'une autre localisation anevrismale (OR ajuste = 18,5; CI 1,5-234,4 ; p = 0,024), et d'une coagulopathie (OR ajuste = 16,9; CI 3,4-393,1; p = 0,03) mais pas le type de traitement. Les complications cardiaques (OR ajuste = 16,7 ; CI 1,4-197,1; p = 0,026) et les complications liees aux implants vasculaires (OR ajuste = 11,1; CI 1,003-123,0; p = 0,049) etaient predictives de deces. Quand les patients presentant une autre localisation anevrismale etaient exclus de l'analyse (n = 153), aucun facteur n'etait identifie comme significativement lie a la survenue d'un deces. Quatre-vingt-onze procedures endovasculaires et 124 chirurgies ouvertes ont ete realisees avec une proportion croissante de procedures endovasculaires realisees au cours du temps (p
The stoichiometry of the electrogenic sodium bicarbonate cotransporter pNBC1 in mouse pancreatic duct cells is 2 HCO3−:1 Na+

The electrogenic sodium bicarbonate cotransporter pNBC1 is believed to play a major role in the secretion of bicarbonate by pancreatic duct cells, by transporting bicarbonate into the cell across the basolateral membrane. Thermodynamics predict that this function can be achieved only if the reversal potential of the cotransporter is negative to the cell's membrane potential, or equivalently that the HCO3-:Na+ stoichiometry is not larger then 2:However, there are no data available on either the reversal potential or the HCO3-:Na+ stoichiometry of pNBC1 in pancreatic cells. We studied pNBC1 function in mouse pancreatic duct cells. RT-PCR analysis of total RNA revealed that these cells contain the message for pNBC1, but not for kNBC1, NBC2 or NBC3. To measure cotransporter activity, mouse pancreatic duct cells were grown to confluence on a porous substrate, mounted in an Ussing chamber, and the apical plasma membrane permeabilized with amphotericin B. Ion flux through pNBC1 was achieved by applying Na+ concentration gradients across the basolateral plasma membrane. The current through the cotransporter was isolated as the difference current due to the reversible inhibitor dinitrostilbene disulfonate (DNDS). Current-voltage relationships for the cotransporter, measured at three different Na+ concentration gradients, were linear over a range of about 100 mV. The reversal potential data, obtained from these current-voltage relationships, all corresponded to a 2 HCO3-:1 Na+ stoichiometry. The data indicate that pNBC1 is functionally expressed in mouse pancreatic duct cells. The cotransporter operates with a 2 HCO3-:1 Na+ stoichiometry in these cells, and mediates the transport of bicarbonate into the cell across the basolateral membrane.
P.4.7 The natural history of myotubular myopathy, summary of the first year of enrollment

Myotubular myopathy (MTM) is an X-linked disorder characterized by muscle weakness, hypotonia, external ophthalmoplegia, and respiratory failure. At this time, no treatments exist for MTM. To prepare for future therapy development, the natural history of a condition must be well established. This study sought to expand on the two previous natural history studies that were performed over one decade ago. A five year prospective natural history study was launched in 2011. Data was gathered through a patient-reported survey, physical examination, pulmonary function testing (PFT), repetitive stimulation testing, collection of medical records, and pedigree. In the first year, 37 MTM participants (20 living, 7 deceased) were enrolled ranging from 10 months to 41 years. The majority of participants were wheelchair (70%) and ventilator dependent (78%). Scoliosis was reported among 67% of participants, developing at an average age of 2.93 years. Similar to the study performed by Herman and colleagues (1999), additional medical problems were reported including cardiac (35%), liver (40%), kidney (20%), and clotting (25%). PFT’s (n = 4) and the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale (n = 6) were performed on a subset of participants and were not found to be useful outcome measures. Additionally, repetitive stimulation was performed on a subset of participants (n = 8) and no evidence of neuromuscular junction abnormalities were detected. Our results are similar to the previous studies, showing increased survival of MTM patients and the identification of additional medical problems which may require screening. Preclinical data has shown abnormalities in the neuromuscular junction, however, this was not confirmed in our small cohort of participants. Lastly, the investigation of additional outcome measures will be needed in preparation for future clinical trials.
Some Observations Regarding the Statistical Determination of Stress Rupture Regression Lines

Observations concerning the statistical evaluation of creep data are presented. Methods currently employed in the determination of stress rupture regression lines can result in conflicting and necessarily invalid results. Anomalous behavior is principally associated with the selection of the dependent variable. However, it is the least squares method of curve fitting which introduces regression bias. Methods to improve the validity of least squares regressions are suggested.
A microchip electrophoresis device with integrated electrochemical detection: a direct comparison of constant potential amperometry and sinusoidal voltammetry.

A microchip electrophoresis system with integrated electrochemical detection is described in this work. The hybrid device utilizes poly(dimethylsiloxane) as the electrophoresis channel substrate and a planar gold electrode lithographically fabricated onto a glass slide for electrochemical detection. The system is characterized by the separation and detection of various neurotransmitters. The gold working electrode is placed just inside the separation channel without adverse effects on the detection sensitivity, due to the electrical decoupling of the detection and electrophoresis systems. The close proximity of the working electrode to the exit of the separation channel results in symmetric peak shapes and efficient separations (50 000−100 000 plates/m). A direct comparison between the frequency-based electrochemical technique, sinusoidal voltammetry, and the more commonly used constant potential (DC) amperometry is made. Sinusoidal voltammetry is found to be roughly an order of magnitude more sensitive t...
Residential hot water energy analysis: Instruments and algorithms

Abstract A system has been developed for practical disaggregated measurement of residential hot water energy consumption. Since hot water energy use is primarily determined by occupant behavior, the significant phenomena occur at the points of use, not at the water tank. To measure with flow meters at each use point would be costly and esthetically undesirable in occupied residences. Drain traps are even more costly and intrusive. This paper describes the development of an instrumentation system based on a single flow meter at the tank, with temperature probes at each tap. A microprocessor-controlled data-logger samples water flow each minute; when water is flowing, it records volume and temperatures. A computer program was developed which examines the minute-by-minute temperature and volume readings, deduces which tap used water, and delimits distinct events. It also calculates pipe heat loss and heat delivered to the end use. The algorithm is evaluated for reliability of the inference rules and heat calculations.
Can myocardial infarction be rapidly identified in emergency department patients who have left bundle-branch block?

Abstract Study Objectives: Fibrinolytic therapy is recommended for patients who have chest pain and left bundle-branch block (LBBB). However, the presence of baseline ECG abnormalities makes early accurate identification of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) difficult. The predictive ability of clinical and ECG variables for identifying patients with LBBB and AMI has not been well studied. We sought to determine the prevalence and predictors of myocardial infarction among patients presenting to the emergency department with LBBB on the initial ECG who were evaluated for myocardial infarction. Methods: All patients presenting to the ED were prospectively risk stratified on the basis of clinical and historical variables. ECGs from patients with LBBB were compared retrospectively with previously published criteria for identification of AMI. The ability of a new LBBB to predict AMI was also determined. Results: Twenty-four (13%) of the 182 patients with LBBB had AMI. Clinical and historical variables were similar in patients with and without AMI. A new LBBB had a sensitivity of 42% and a specificity of 65%. The presence of concordant ST-segment elevation or depression had specificities and positive predictive values of 100%; however, sensitivities were only 8% and 17%, respectively. The best diagnostic criterion was the presence of concordant ST-segment elevation or depression on the ECG or an initially elevated creatine kinase MB (sensitivity, 63%; specificity, 99%). Conclusion: ECG criteria for identifying patients with AMI and LBBB identify only a small minority of patients with AMI. Treating all patients with LBBB and chest pain with fibrinolytics would result in treatment of a significant number of patients without AMI. [Kontos MC, McQueen RH, Jesse RL, Tatum JL, Ornato JP. Can myocardial infarction be rapidly identified in emergency department patients who have left bundle-branch block? Ann Emerg Med. May 2001;37:431-438.]
The Long-term Follow-up of Accommodative Esotropia in a Population-based Cohort of Children

Purpose To report refractive and surgical outcomes in a cohort of children with accommodative esotropia. Design Retrospective population-based cohort. Participants All pediatric patients ( Methods Medical records identified by the Rochester Epidemiology Project were reviewed for spectacle and surgical management. Main Outcome Measures Rate of surgical intervention and discontinuation of spectacles for esotropia. Results A total of 306 children with accommodative esotropia were diagnosed during the study years; 244 (80%) had fully accommodative esotropia (FAET) and 62 (20%) had partially accommodative esotropia (PAET). The Kaplan–Meier rate of discontinuing spectacles for strabismus in this population was 8% by 5 years after diagnosis, 20% by 10 years, and 37% by 20 years. Children born prematurely ( P = 0.046) or with a greater initial hyperopic refractive error ( P P = 0.039) and an earlier age at onset ( P = 0.008) and diagnosis ( P Conclusions The majority of children with accommodative esotropia in this population continued to require spectacle correction into their second decade of life. A small proportion of children with FAET required surgical intervention, which was more likely to occur among boys and in those with an earlier age at onset and diagnosis of their deviation. Financial Disclosure(s) The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.
Calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase-II activation in rat pituitary cells in the presence of thyrotropin-releasing hormone and dopamine.

PRL release from rat lactotrophs in response to TRH is Ca2+ dependent. TRH-induced PRL release is inhibited either after repeated pulses of TRH or in the presence of dopamine. TRH, however, generates increases in intracellular Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i) in both conditions. Calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase-II (CaM kinase-II) is a ubiquitous enzyme implicated in secretion. To determine whether down-regulation of CaM kinase-II activity caused the lack of responsiveness to increases in [Ca2+]i, we measured the generation of calcium/calmodulin-independent kinase activity. Anterior pituitary cells contain a 50-kilodalton form of CaM kinase-II, determined by immunoblot, and the enzyme is in lactotrophs, determined by immunocytochemistry. TRH rapidly and transiently increased calcium/calmodulin-independent kinase activity; the increase was maximal by 15 sec and returned to basal by 2 min. When TRH pulses (1 microM, 15 sec) were applied every 10 min, each pulse caused an increase in calcium/calmoduli...
Polymorphic and monomorphic serum esterase heterogeneity in catostomid fish populations

A one-locus, two-allele serum esterase polymorphism is described in populations of Catostomus (Pantosteus) clarki in the connected and disconnected tributaries of the lower Colorado River system. A clinal distribution of allelic frequency is linearly correlated with latitude. This distribution of allelic frequencies, and other characteristics of the polymorphism in C. (P.) clarki populations, are indicative of the selective maintenance of the heterogeneity. Sympatric species of the subgenus Catostomus exhibit a monomorphic esterase phenotype indistinguishable from the heterozygote phenotype in polymorphic populations of C. (P.) clarki. Genetic mechanisms involved in the evolution of one polymorphic locus and/or two homozygous loci from an ancestral gene are discussed.
Molecular modeling studies of the reactions of phenoxy radical dimers: pathways to dibenzofurans.

The B3LYP hybrid density functional computational technique was applied to describe the sequence of phenoxy radicals coupling reactions leading to the formation of dibenzofurans. Reaction kinetic parameters were estimated for key reactions. Aromatization of bis-keto dimers of phenoxy radicals followed by intermediate dehydration or dehydroxylation was demonstrated to be a strongly stereoselective process. While the S,S-diastereomer of the ortho-C//ortho-C keto dimer forms (o,o‘)-dihydroxybiphenyl, a known dibenzofuran intermediate, via inter-ring hydrogen transfer reaction, the less stable R,S-stereoisomer can easily be transformed into another 5-hydroxyl-4,5-cyclohexadiene-2,3-benzofuran intermediate that provides an energetically more favorable pathway for formation of dibenzofuran. The possible channels of radical-chain processes that convert these intermediates to dibenzofuran and polychlorinated dibenzofurans are discussed.
Transfer of Verbal Paired Associates in Mentally Retarded Individuals and Normal Children as a Function of Interlist Similarity.

Abstract Verbal paired-associates (PA) tasks were used to determine the specific effects of transfer for normal children and retardates matched on mental age. The degree of item similarity between original learning and transfer learning was varied. Performance of the children conformed to that previously observed with normal children. The retardates showed marked departure with respect to the C-B and A-B r conditions. A stage analysis was used to separate the response learning and associative hookup phases of PA learning. Results suggested the importance of the response phase in predicting differences between normal and retardate performances in some aspects of PA transfer learning. The relatively great negative transfer displayed by the retardates under the A-B r condition is attributable to associative interference.
Exploring the Spiritual Experience of the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous

ABSTRACT This article describes the process of spiritual experience in recovery of 57 members of Alcoholics Anonymous from groups located in Southern New Jersey. Eighty-two percent of the participants claimed to have had a spiritual experience. The process of spiritual experiences described by the participants was slow, 72%, sudden, 22%, and both slow and sudden, 6%. This spiritual experience phenomenon was not found to be related to religious denomination, regular church attendance, or daily prayer. Chi-square analyses revealed significant associations between claiming to have had a spiritual experience along with completion of Steps 4, 5, 8 and 9.
Comparison of tests for diagnosis of iron depletion in pregnancy

The serum ferritin level was used to diagnose iron depletion in 137 pregnant patients who came to an inner-city hospital outpatient clinic. Seventy-three patients (53.3%) had ferritin levels less than 20 micrograms/L, indicating iron depletion. The prevalence of iron depletion was 29% in the first trimester, 64% in the second trimester, and 71% in the third trimester (p less than 0.001). The sensitivities of serum iron (2.8%), transferrin saturation (12.5%), mean corpuscular volume (6.8%), and red cell distribution width (16.4%) were too low for screening or diagnosing iron depletion and deficiency. Serum ferritin level should be used to screen for and diagnose iron depletion and deficiency in pregnancy.
Accommodating claims of disability: The potential impact of abuses

Abstract The potential impact of employee abuses of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 on employer judgements and behaviors is explored. A model depicting the process underlying managerial judgments about employee requests for accommodation is presented. It is proposed that individuals will attribute accommodation requests to disability or to a motive to deceive. This attribution process impacts perceptions of the degree of reasonableness of an accommodation. Attributions to deception and perceptions of unreasonableness of an accommodation request will contribute to perceived violations of the employer-employee psychological contract. This private judgment process will culminate in the short term and public judgment of whether accommodation will be made. In the longer run, violations of the psychological contract will impact the quality of the manager and employee relationship and increase the manager's tendency to attribute accommodation requests to a motive to deceive.
Complete equation of state for unreacted solid explosive

A complete equation of state, based on a reference isentrope derived using the Walsh mirror image approximation, is discussed and calibrated for unreacted PBX9501. There are very few relevant data for the calibration, and the emphasis is on how calibration may be done rather than on presenting a final perfect equation of state.
Ionic channels in vascular endothelial cells

Abstract Vascular endothelial cells respond to neurohumoral and physical stimuli to secrete mediators that modulate blood pressure and tissue perfusion. The initial response of endothelial cells usually involves an elevation of cytoplasmic Ca 2+ , due to Ca 2+ release from intracellular stores and Ca 2+ influx from the extracellular space, and subsequent activation of Ca 2+ -dependent enzymes. The activation of cell-surface receptors by vasoactive substances stimulates Ca 2+ entry via plasmalemmal ion channels and the rate of Ca 2+ influx depends on the electrochemical gradient, which is modulated by the resting membrane potential. Membrane potential is regulated by a variety of voltage- and ligand-gated potassium channels that may function to repolarize the stimulated endothelial cell. This review focuses on ionic channels involved in receptor-mediated Ca 2+ entry and control of the membrane potential that are critical to stimulus-secretion coupling in vascular endothelium.
On the determination of the optimal constant output feedback gains for linear multivariable systems

The optimal control of linear time-invariant systems with respect to a quadratic performance criterion is discussed. The problem is posed with the additional constraint that the control vector u(t) is a linear time-invariant function of the output vector y(t) (u(t) = -Fy(t)) rather than of the state vector x(t) . The performance criterion is then averaged, and algebraic necessary conditions for a minimizing F\ast are found. In addition, an algorithm for computing F\ast is presented.
Winter weather forecasts

Once again, forecasters from both the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Weather Service and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography's (SIO) Climate Research Group have independently formulated extended winter weather forecasts for the continental United States for December 1984 through February 1985. This year both groups have devised generally agreeing forecasts: Colder than normal weather in the western part of the nation, generally milder temperatures in the east (Figure 1), and on the whole, more than average precipitation over the entire nation (Figure 2). Both teams of forecasters use, in part, data on ocean surface temperatures collected in the North Pacific and North Atlantic as indications of likely weather patterns over the continents. First the National Weather Service's forecast: According to Donald L. Gilman, chief of the Predictions Branch at NOAA's National Weather Service, the greatest chance, or 60%, for colder than normal weather this winter is found in Utah and portions of Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Nevada. Surrounding this region, extending eastward from the Cascade and Siena Nevada mountains across the Great Basin and into the Rocky Mountains and the High Plains of Colorado, New Mexico, and west Texas, is an area that NOAA forecasters have given a 55% chance of colder than normal winter temperatures.
Radioactivity in sediments of the Great Lakes: Post-depositional redistribution by deposit-feeding organisms

At two locations in southern Lake Huron (U.S.A.), twelve 35.5-cm diameter cores of fine-grained sediments were taken for comparison of the vertical distributions of 210pb and faUlout 137Cs with the distributions of benthic macroinvertebrates, mainly oligochaete worms (Tubificidae) and the amphipod, Pontoporeia affinis. Locations were selected on the basis of 210pb distributions measured a year earlier which indicated contrasting depths of mixing of surface sediments. At one location the activity of 21 opb is uniform down to about 6 cm and 95% of total invertebrates occur within this zone; at the other location the zone of constant activity is only 3 cm deep but 90% of the invertebrates occur within it. Comparison of published tubificid defecation rates with sediment accumulation rates based on 2 lOpb shows that oligochaetes alone can account for mixing in one case while the effects of amphipods may be required in the case of shallower mixing. If mixing is represented as a diffusional process, eddy diffusion coefficients are at least 5.8 and 3.3 cm 2 yr-1 at respective locations. In comparison with bioturbation, molecular diffusion is of minor importance in the post-depositional mobility of 137Cs" The necessity for introducing a diffusion coefficient varying continuously with depth is indicated by characteristics of the distribution of 137Cs" Biological reworking of near-surface sediments is an important process affecting radioactivity and chemical profiles in profundal deposits of this and probably other Great Lakes.
PUBLIC OPINION TOWARD EQUAL OPPORTUNITY ISSUES: The Role of Attitudinal and Demographic Forces Among African Americans

This paper explores African American opinion toward equal opportunity issues using a demographic-attitudinal focus. Previous explo- rations have focused on black-white opinion comparisons. In this analysis, attitudinal forces, particularly core values, are identified as playing an influential role in policy support. Further, these patterns of values tend to reflect those expressed by whites on similar questions: the more individu- alistic and conservative one is, the less likely one is to support government intervention on African Americans behalf. In responding to questions concerning governmental responsibility, higher SES African Americans express stronger support than do their lower SES counterparts. This find- ing suggests that those who are experiencing "glass ceilings" are concerned about government guarantees of equal opportunity, despite their individu- alistic beliefs. This is inconsistent with previous explorations that analyze these beliefs among disadvantaged populations. The implications of social changes in the African American community and the impact of these changes on opinion dynamics are discussed.
DSC studies of a family of natively disordered fragments from Escherichia coli thioredoxin: surface burial in intrinsic coils.

The accumulating data from proteome analysis indicates that numerous proteins have segments and/or domains, involved in regulatory functions of the eukaryotic cell, which are entirely unstructured under physiological conditions, challenging the structure-function paradigm. Although many such natively unfolded proteins have been structurally analyzed by NMR spectroscopy, little is known about solvent inaccessible surfaces in premolten globules and intrinsic coils. Recent DSC studies of two protein fragments have shown a promising way to estimate the predominantly hydrophobic buried surfaces [Georgescu, R. E., Garcia-Mira, M. M., Tasayco, M. L., and Sanchez-Ruiz, J. M. (2001) Eur. J. Biochem. 268, 1-10]. Here we report a systematic heat capacity analysis of a family of natively disordered complementary fragments of oxidized Escherichia coli thioredoxin (1-31/32-108, 1 -37/38- 108, 1 -50/51 - 108, and 38-73) which provides insights into the local and nonlocal interactions contributing to the burial of predominantly hydrophobic surface in intrinsic coils.
Cancer and metastasis: prevention and treatment by green tea

Metastasis is the most deadly aspect of cancer and results from several interconnected processes including cell proliferation, angiogenesis, cell adhesion, migration, and invasion into the surrounding tissue. The appearance of metastases in organs distant from the primary tumor is the most destructive feature of cancer. Metastasis remains the principal cause of the deaths of cancer patients despite decades of research aimed at restricting tumor growth. Therefore, inhibition of metastasis is one of the most important issues in cancer research. Several in vitro, in vivo, and epidemiological studies have reported that the consumption of green tea may decrease cancer risk. (-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate, major component of green tea, has been shown to inhibit tumor invasion and angiogenesis which are essential for tumor growth and metastasis. This article summarizes the effect of green tea and its major polyphenolic compounds on cancer and metastasis against most commonly diagnosed cancer sites.
Leukocyte transmigration, chemotaxis, and oxygenated derivatives of arachidonic acid: when is chirality important?

The pivotal roles of leukocytes in host defense, inflammation, and injury of tissues were in many respects established in the last century. Cohnheim, between 1839 and 1884, described the "steps" taken by leukocytes as they leave the vessel lumen to destinations within tissues (reviewed in 1). These encompass the now well-studied "leukocyte sequence; which includes rolling, arrest of the cells, and adherence to endothelium. Next, leukocytes transmigrate through intercellular junctions (termed "diapedesis") and migrate in response to a chemotactic gradient. Leukocyte chemotaxis along a chemical gradient is an essential function in vivo, and neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, and eosinophils can each perform chemotaxis to varied levels that depend, in part, on the nature of the stimulus. The "leukocyte sequence" for exiting circulation is believed to be universal in human tissues. Hence, it was deemed important by investigators of the past several decades to identify both endogenous and exogenous substances that can evoke the chemotactic mechanism (reviewed in 1). Two broad classes are currently appreciated: those derived from proteins and those from lipid precursors. Since chemotaxis is initiated via ligand-receptor interactions, where the chemoattractants are viewed as ligands, their structural elucidation is of interest because of the importance of being able to selectively manipulate leukocyte optimal accumulation at sites in vivo. The chamber introduced by Boyden was part of the technology that aided in the identification of many leukocyte chemotaxins. This bioassay has clear advantages for studying chemotaxis. It should be kept in mind, however, that it does not model either the adhesion or transmigration events that antecede chemotaxis and are highly relevant in defense. The experiments reported by Bittleman and Casale in this issue of the Journal are the first to examine the role of chirality at the carbon five position alcohol of 5-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (5-HETE) derived from arachidonic acid in transmigration of human neutrophils. Their findings draw attention to the importance of the 5R and 5S enantiomers of 5-HETE, which is a well-appreciated lipid-derived stimulant
Water-Affected Fraction of Natural 1.5-9 μ Diameter Aerosol Particles

Abstract The water-affected fraction of a given size class of an aerosol population reflects the change in particle concentration when that population becomes hydrosolized. The water-affected fraction was determined for natural aerosol particles in the 1.5–9 μ diameter size range. The largest change was observed in the 1.5–3 μ size group in a polluted atmosphere, especially in the presence of scattered rain and overcast sky. The aggregates formed through evaporation of cloud droplets seem to be the principal source of smaller hydrosol particles. Parallel determination of changes in air concentration of chloride particles and water-affected fraction of aerosol particles, coupled with analysis of air parcel trajectories, showed excellent agreement in identification of the movement of maritime air parcels over the central part of the continent (Colorado).
Compatibility of materials for use in liquid-metal blankets of fusion reactors☆

A review of corrosion and environmental effects on the mechanical properties of austenitic and ferritic steels for use with liquid metals in fusion reactors is presented. The mechanisms and kinetics of the corrosion processes in liquid lithium and Pb-17Li systems are examined and their influence on degradation of structural material is discussed. Requirements for additional data are identified.
Water-mass stratification and bed form characteristics in East Pass, Destin, Florida

Abstract Density contrasts between the water of Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico result in sharp vertical and horizontal stratification in the northern part of East Pass near Destin, Fla., during flood and a portion of the ebb tidal phases. As a consequence of this stratification, flood tide currents are swiftest and of longest duration in the deeper layers within dredged channels. Ebb currents attain their velocity and duration maxima in the upper layers of the water column. Accordingly, bed form asymmetries indicate that bedload transport is flood dominated in the channels and ebb dominated over shoals. Vertical density homogeneity resulting from greater mixing in the seaward reaches and at the mouth of the inlet channel is accompanied by bidirectional sand transport.
The rapid nongenomic actions of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 modulate the hormone-induced increments in osteocalcin gene transcription in osteoblast-like cells

We have previously shown that one of the rapid nongenomic actions of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1α,25-(OH)2D3), the increase in intracellular calcium (Ca2+), accompanies the increased osteocalcin (OC) mRNA steady-state levels in rat osteosarcoma cells. To determine the functional significance of the nongenomic actions, we have measured changes in intracellular Ca2+ as an indicator of the rapid effects and have assessed the effect of inhibition of the rapid increase in cellular Ca2+ by the inactive epimer, 1β,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1β,25-(OH)2D3) on OC mRNA steady-state levels and transcription. 1β,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 inhibited 1α,25-(OH)2D3 induced increases in intracellular Ca2+ and OC mRNA transcription at 1 hr and OC mRNA steady state levels at 3 hr. 1β,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 did not alter the binding of the vitamin D receptor complex to the vitamin D responsive element of the OC gene. The results demonstrate the functional importance of the rapid, nongenomic actions of 1α,25-(OH)2D3 in the genomic activation of the OC gene by the hormone in rat osteoblast-like cells, perhaps by modifying subtle structural and/or functional properties of the vitamin D–receptor DNA complex or by affecting other protein DNA interactions that support OC gene transcription. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Group B streptococcus endocarditis with endophthalmitis.

42-year-old man presented with fever and altered mental status, and group B streptococcus (GBS) infective endocarditis was diagnosed. Examination of the right eye showed injection of the conjunctiva with corneal clouding and no light reflex. The patient had endophthalmitis due to manifestation of septic embolus and underwent enucleation of the right eye. The specimen had pus in both anterior and posterior chambers with multiple foci of abscess formation in the sclera and cornea. The patient underwent aortic valve replacement. Examination of the defective valve showed multiple foci of gram-positive cocci with vegetations and fibrin deposition on the leaflet. Group B streptococcus is an uncommon cause of infective endocarditis. Chronic conditions such as alcoholism, liver cirrhosis, diabetes mellitus, human immunodeficiency virus infection, and cancer are considered risk factors for GBS infective endocarditis. Group B streptococcus infective endocarditis is aggressive, and cardiac surgery is required when heart failure or embolic phenomena occur. 1 Endophthalmitis is a rare manifestation of septic emboli due to infective endocarditis. In a study of endogenous endophthalmitis, GBS was found in 7% of cases, with the main source of infection being infective endocarditis. 2 Because endophthalmitis causes rapid and widespread destruction of the choroid and retina, visual prognosis is grave despite treatment with intravenous antibiotics. 3 Extensive involvement of the posterior chamber of the eye may necessitate intravitreal antibiotics or enucleation of the eye. 4
Three New Species of Capparidastrum (Capparaceae) from Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador

Abstract. Three new species of Capparidastrum (subgen. pulviniglans) are here described and illustrated: Capparidastrum grandiflorum, from the wet forests of Dept. Antioquia, Colombia; C. huberi, known only from the cuenca del Rio Manapiare in the Territorio Federal Amazonas, Venezuela; and, C. megalospermum, restricted to the lowland wet forests of northwestern Ecuador.
Diffusive Surface Instabilities Induced by Electromechanical Loading

It has been recently established that mechanical stresses can induce a diffusive surface instability, which leads to crack formation without any energy barrier. This paper is aimed at investigating this instability mechanism for the more general case of an interface between two linear piezoelectric solids subjected to coupled electromechanical stresses. The energy variation associated with interface roughness is calculated using an extended Stroh formalism in anisotropic elasticity. The solutions obtained are applicable to a wide class of problems involving surfaces or interfaces in material systems with piezoelectric, anisotropic or isotropic properties.
Detection and quantification of poliovirus infection using FTIR spectroscopy and cell culture

In a globalized word, prevention of infectious diseases is a major challenge. Rapid detection of viable virus particles in water and other environmental samples is essential to public health risk assessment, homeland security and environmental protection. Current virus detection methods, especially assessing viral infectivity, are complex and time-consuming, making point-of-care detection a challenge. Faster, more sensitive, highly specific methods are needed to quantify potentially hazardous viral pathogens and to determine if suspected materials contain viable viral particles. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy combined with cellular-based sensing, may offer a precise way to detect specific viruses. This approach utilizes infrared light to monitor changes in molecular components of cells by tracking changes in absorbance patterns produced following virus infection. In this work poliovirus (PV1) was used to evaluate the utility of FTIR spectroscopy with cell culture for rapid detection of infective virus particles. Buffalo green monkey kidney (BGMK) cells infected with different virus titers were studied at 1 - 12 hours post-infection (h.p.i.). A partial least squares (PLS) regression method was used to analyze and model cellular responses to different infection titers and times post-infection. The model performs best at 8 h.p.i., resulting in an estimated root mean square error of cross validation (RMSECV) of 17 plaque forming units (PFU)/ml when using low titers of infection of 10 and 100 PFU/ml. Higher titers, from 103 to 106 PFU/ml, could also be reliably detected. This approach to poliovirus detection and quantification using FTIR spectroscopy and cell culture could potentially be extended to compare biochemical cell responses to infection with different viruses. This virus detection method could feasibly be adapted to an automated scheme for use in areas such as water safety monitoring and medical diagnostics.
Looking to Grow Outside the United States

AbstractPerceptions and expectations are integral factors affecting decision making. However, aquaculture stakeholders’ perceptions and social attitudes have been largely neglected in aquaculture management and planning. We examine the relationship between US aquaculturists’ intended actions to expand production capacity abroad and factors influencing their decisions, including: perceptions of market conditions, regulatory climate, property rights, government leadership, comparative advantages, and demographic characteristics. Primary data were collected via an original survey. The results indicate that large-scale, non-shellfish marine aquaculturists without an advanced graduate degree are more likely to expand abroad. These aquaculturists tend to have high expectations about seafood demand and think that US permit and environmental regulations are strict; aquaculture leases should be transferable; and the United States has comparative advantages in skilled labor availability and access to domestic marke...
Elimination of ECG Artifacts from Myoelectric Prosthesis Control Signals Developed by Targeted Muscle Reinnervation

We investigated elimination of electrocardiogram (ECG) artifacts from the myoelectric prosthesis control signals, taken from the reinnervated pectoralis muscles of a patient with bilateral amputations at shoulder disarticulation level. The performance of various ECG artifact removal methods including high pass filtering, spike clipping, template subtracting, wavelet thresholding and adaptive filtering was presented. In particular, considering the clinical requirements and memory limitation of commercial prosthesis controllers, we further explored suitable means of ECG artifact removal for clinical application
Compact on-chip interferometers with high spectral sensitivity

We introduce on-chip interferometers in which the spatial output interference pattern is observed along a detection plane. We show that by using photonic crystals with strong dispersive properties in these devices, highly sensitive interferometers can be realized. We discuss potentials of these interferometers in spectroscopy and sensing applications using their strong wavelength sensitivity and their ability to spatially map the spectral information of an input signal.
A new bidding strategy in LCS using a decentralized loaning and bid history

In a strength based learning classifier systems (LCS), auctioning among classifiers that match to an environmental message has been used as a way of identifying winner classifiers. All classifiers participating in an auction issue a bid proportional to their strength and a winner classifier is allowed to fire and receive a reward or punishment from its environment as a consequence of its action. In this kind of bidding strategy, good classifiers with low strength and little experience have to wait until the strength of less useful classifiers has come down through continuous taxation. This slows down the convergence of the learning system to the optimal solution sets. In addition, offspring classifiers that come from weak parents as a result of randomness in the selection process may inherit a small strength as compared to experienced classifiers in the population. A mutation occurring at a point may however make them better match to more environmental inputs. But due to a low initial strength they have to wait for some time till they mature and try their action. This paper introduced a decentralized loaning approach to mitigate the above shortcomings of the bidding strategy in traditional LCS. Loaning among classifiers in the population is allowed. In direct analogy with real auctions, all classifiers matching the current input compare the average bid history with their potential bid based on their current strength. The average bid history parameter gives general information about the bid market (potential of competent classifiers) and determines the amount of loan a classifier should ask. The results obtained show a significant improvement on the performance of the system.
Alterations in muscle activation patterns during robotic-assisted walking.

Objective. The goal of this study was to compare the muscle activation patterns in various major leg muscles during treadmill ambulation with those exhibited during robotic-assisted walking. Background. Robotic devices are now being integrated into neurorehabilitation programs with promising results. The influence of these devices on altering naturally occurring muscle activation patterns utilized during walking have not been quantified. Methods. Muscle activity measured during 60 s of walking was broken up into individual stride cycles, averaged, and normalized. The stride cycle was then broken up into seven distinct phases and the integrated muscle activity during each phase was compared between treadmill and robotic-assisted walking using a multi-factor ANOVA. Results. Significant differences in the spatial and temporal muscle activation patterns were observed across various portions of the gait cycle between treadmill and robotic-assisted walking. Activity in the quadriceps and hamstrings was significantly higher during the swing phase of Lokomat walking than treadmill walking, while activity in the ankle flexor and extensor muscles was reduced throughout most of the gait cycle in the Lokomat. Conclusions. Walking within a robotic orthosis that limits the degrees of freedom of leg and pelvis movement leads to changes in naturally occurring muscle activation patterns. Relevance An understanding of how robotic-assisted walking alters muscle activation patterns is necessary clinically in order to establish baseline patterns against which subjects with neurological disorders can be compared. Furthermore, this information will guide further developments in robotic devices targeting gait training. 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
How leading organizations use big data and analytics to innovate

Purpose – To understand how the most successful organizations use big data and analytics innovate, researchers studied 341 respondents’ usage of big data and analytics tools for innovation. Design/methodology/approach – Researchers asked about innovation goals, barriers to innovation, metrics used to measure innovation outcomes, treatment and types of innovation projects and the role of big data and analytics in innovation processes. Findings – Three distinct groups emerged: Leaders, Strivers and Strugglers. Leaders are markedly different as a group: they innovate using big data and analytics within a structured approach, and they focus in particular on collaboration. Research limitations/implications – Respondents were from the 2014 IBM Innovation Survey. We conducted cluster analysis with 81 variables. The three cluster solution was determined deploying latent class analysis (LCA), a family of techniques based around clustering and data reduction for segmentation projects. It uses a number of underlying statistical models to capture differences between observed data or stimuli in the form of discrete (unordered) population segments; group segments; ordered factors (segments with an underlying numeric order); continuous factors; or mixtures of the above. Practical implications – Leaders don’t just embrace analytics and actionable insights; they take them to the next level, integrating analytics and insights with innovation. Leaders follow three basic strategies that center on data, skills and tools and culture: promote excellent data quality and accessibility; make analytics and innovation a part of every role; build a quantitative innovation culture. Originality/value – The research found that leaders leverage big data and analytics more effectively over a wider range of organizational processes and functions. They are significantly better at leveraging big data and analytics throughout the innovation process – from conceiving new ideas to creating new business models and developing new products and services.