cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Venous thromboembolism in otolaryngology surgical inpatients receiving chemoprophylaxis.

Background The Caprini risk assessment model for stratifying patients' risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) has been validated in the otolaryngology literature. We sought to determine the incidence of VTE in patients receiving chemoprophylaxis and correlate with the Caprini risk assessment model. Methods A retrospective chart review of adult surgical admissions to an academic otolaryngology service from 2007 to 2012 was performed. Caprini risk assessment model scores were calculated and compared to incidence of VTE based on diagnosis codes. Results Seven hundred four patients met our inclusion criteria. Fifteen (2.13%) developed VTE. The Caprini risk assessment model score averaged 5.7 (range, 2–16). Patients with VTE had an average score of 9.87 versus 5.62 for those without (p 9 developed VTE. Conclusion The incidence of VTE increases with Caprini risk assessment model score, and a score of >8 predicts a high risk (>13%) of VTE in postoperative otolaryngology inpatients despite chemoprophylaxis. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 36: 1087–1093, 2014
Modified nodal approach to DC network sensitivity computation

Programming techniques are presented for computing dc sensitivity vectors of nonlinear electronic circuits. The modified nodal approach is used as the method of formulation for the circuit equations, in which multiple performance objectives can be accommodated. Numerical examples illustrate some of the techniques discussed.
Outward sodium current in beating heart cells

This article is a study of the fast Na current during action potentials. We have investigated the outward Na current (Mazzanti, M., and L.J. DeFelice. 1987. Biophys. J. 52:95–100) in more detail, and we have asked whether it goes through the same channels associated with the rapid depolarization phase of action potentials. We address the question by patch clamping single, spontaneously beating, embryonic chick ventricle cells, using two electrodes to record the action potential and the patch current simultaneously. The chief limitation is the capacitive current, and in this article we describe a new method to subtract it. Varying the potential and the Na concentration in the patch pipette, and fitting the corrected currents to a standard model (Ebihara, L., and E.A. Johnson. 1980. Biophys. J. 32:779–790), provides evidence that the outward current is carried by the same channels that conduct the inward current. We compare the currents in beating cells to currents in nonbeating cells using whole-cell and cell-attached patch clamp recordings. The latter tend to show more positive Na reversal potentials, with the implication that internal Na is higher in beating cells. We propose that the plateau of the action potential, which is partly due to an inward Ca current, exceeds Na action current reversal potentials, and that this driving force gives rise to an outward movement of Na ions. The existence of such a current would imply that the fast repolarization phase after the upstroke of cardiac action potentials is partly due to the Na action current.
An inhibitor of thromboxane production attenuates tumor necrosis factor release by activated human alveolar macrophages

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) and thromboxane A2 (TXA2) are major products of the activated alveolar macrophage and serve as key mediators of lung injury. In order to determine if the synthesis of TXA2 and the release of TNF alpha are associated, the production of these inflammatory agents by the human alveolar macrophage (AM), as a result of activation by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), was assessed in the absence and presence of the thromboxane synthase inhibitors UK 38,485 (Dazmegrel) and OKY 046. UK 38,485 and OKY 046 inhibited both LPS-stimulated TXA2 production and TNF alpha release in a dose-dependent manner. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production was not increased by UK 38,485 or OKY 046. Neither LPS nor UK 38,485 had any effect on LTB4 production by AM. Neither UK 38,485 or OKY 046 had any effect on LPS-stimulated interleukin-1 beta release. However, the TXA2 mimetic, U46619, did not stimulate TNF alpha release by AM either in the absence or presence of UK 38,485. These findings suggest that 1) UK 38,485 and OKY 046 are inhibitors of both TXA2 production and TNF alpha release by activated human AM, 2) UK 38,485 probably does not exert its inhibitory action on TNF alpha release through effects on eicosanoid production and 3) the possibility that TNF alpha- and TXA2-induced lung injury may be subject to amelioration by imidazole-based compounds should be further evaluated.
Patterns and success of fetal programming among women with low and extremely low pre-pregnancy BMI

To estimate the frequency of fetal programming phenotypes among women with low BMI and the success of these programming patterns-to determine if small for gestational age (SGA) is a biologically adaptive mechanism to improve chances for infant survival. We examined the frequency of fetal programming phenotypes: SGA, large for gestational age (LGA), and adequate for gestational age (AGA) among 1,063,888 singleton live births from 1978 to 1997. We also estimated the success of fetal programming phenotypes using neonatal death as the primary study outcome. Underweight gravidas with AGA and LGA babies had elevated risk of neonatal mortality when compared to normal weight mothers, while the risk for neonatal mortality among mothers with SGA babies was reduced. The variation in relative degrees of fetal programming patterns and success observed suggests that underweight mothers are more likely to succeed in programming SGA fetuses rather than any other phenotype.
Radioiodinated endothelin-1: a radiotracer for imaging endothelin receptor distribution and occupancy

Endothelin (ET) is one of the most potent vasoconstrictors known. Recently, ET has been implicated in various diseases, e.g., acute renal failure and congestive heart failure, which present the possibility of treating such diseases with endothelin receptor antagonists. However, establishing the dosages for these antagonists may be difficult because no convenient physiologic indicator of action exists, and because of complexities in receptor function. Two receptor subtypes have been identified for which selective antagonists have been reported (e.g., BQ-123 for the ETA receptor and BQ-788 for the ETB receptor). Of the three natural peptide hormones (ET-1, ET-2, and ET-3), ET-1 exhibits high affinity for both subtypes of receptor. Using the selective peptide antagonists, and a nonpeptide antagonist with relatively balanced affinity for the two subtypes (L-749,329), we have characterized the interactions of [125I]ET-1 with its receptors in vivo (in rat). BQ-123, BQ-788, and L-749,329 inhibited binding consistent with binding to a single receptor site. However, the sum of inhibition by the selective antagonist was greater than 100% (as defined by inhibition with L-749,329), which suggests (a) lower in vivo selectivity than determined in vitro and/or (b) receptor subtype interactions. The latter explanation is supported, in part, by in vitro autoradiographic studies as well as studies in isolated tissues and cells. We synthesized ET-1 labeled with I-123 and obtained images of receptor distribution in both rat and rhesus monkey and have demonstrated our ability to visualize, via planar, noninvasive imaging, the occupancy of endothelin receptor by antagonists in both kidney and lung. [123I]ET-1 can therefore be used to determine clinical dosages of antagonist needed for receptor saturation.
Neuroscience nanotechnology: progress, opportunities and challenges

Nanotechnologies exploit materials and devices with a functional organization that has been engineered at the nanometre scale. The application of nanotechnology in cell biology and physiology enables targeted interactions at a fundamental molecular level. In neuroscience, this entails specific interactions with neurons and glial cells. Examples of current research include technologies that are designed to better interact with neural cells, advanced molecular imaging technologies, materials and hybrid molecules used in neural regeneration, neuroprotection, and targeted delivery of drugs and small molecules across the blood-brain barrier.
Life Histories of Anormenis septentrionalis, Metcalfa pruinosa, and Ormenoides venusta with Descriptions of Immature Stages

The life histories of Anormenis septentrionalis (Spinola), Metcalfa pruinosa (Say), and Ormenoides venusta (Melichar) were investigated in southern Illinois from 1977 to 1979, and the immature stages were described. The three species were also reared in the laboratory. A. septentrionalis, M. pruinosa, and O. venusta are univoltine, and feed on a wide variety of woody and herbaceous plants. A. septentrionalis, M. pruinosa and, probably, O. venusta overwinter as eggs inserted in woody tissue. The three species were reared on green beans. M. pruinosa was also reared on walnut leaves, and O. venusta was reared on walnut, pawpaw, and redbud leaves. Total development time averaged 178.4 days for A. septentrionalis; only partial rearing data were obtained for the other species. Nymphs of the three species are attacked by one or more species of dryinid wasps. M. pruinosa and O. venusta nymphs are parasitized by a mite, Leptus sp., and M. pruinosa adults are parasitized by an epipyropid moth, Epipyrops barberiana Dyar.
Responses of amniotic fluid volume and its four major flows to lung liquid diversion and amniotic infusion in the ovine fetus

We designed experiments to allow direct measurement of amniotic fluid volume and continuous measurement of lung liquid production, swallowing, and urine production in fetal sheep. From these values, the rate of intramembranous absorption was calculated. Using this experimental design, the contribution of lung liquid to the control of amniotic fluid volume was examined. Fetuses were assigned to 1 of 4 protocols, each protocol lasting 3 days: control, isovolemic replacement of lung liquid, supplementation of amniotic fluid inflow by 4 L/day, and supplementation of amniotic inflow during isovolemic replacement of lung liquid. We found no effect of lung liquid replacement on any of the known flows into and out of the amniotic fluid. Although intramembranous absorption increased greatly during supplementation, the amniochorionic function curves were not altered by isovolemic lung liquid replacement. We conclude that lung liquid does not appear to contain a significant regulatory substance for amniotic fluid volume control.
Remarks on the Modified Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate Model of a Ferroelectric

The modified potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP) model of a two-dimensional ferroelectric with the inclusion of an arbitrary electric field $\mathcal{E}$ is considered. The nature of the phase transition is unaffected by the inclusion of an external field, whereas the transition temperature depends on $\mathcal{E}$ with ${T}_{c}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\infty}$ as $\mathcal{E}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\infty}$, and ${T}_{c}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}0$ as $\mathcal{E}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\mathrm{some}\mathrm{special}\mathrm{values}$. We also find that ${T}_{c}$ is determined by different relations in different regions in the $\mathcal{E}$ plane, a property not shared by the Slater KDP model. Among the other thermodynamic properties discussed, the critical behavior of the polarizability is shown to be $\ensuremath{\chi}\ensuremath{\sim}{(T\ensuremath{-}{T}_{c})}^{\ensuremath{-}\frac{1}{2}}$. It is shown that this model is identical to the problem of close-packed dimers on a hexagonal lattice.
Clinical Outcomes, Utilization, and Charges in Persons With Neck Pain Receiving Guideline Adherent Physical Therapy

In efforts to decrease practice variation, clinical practice guidelines for neck pain have been published. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of receiving guideline adherent physical therapy (PT) on clinical outcomes, health care utilization, and charges for health care services in patients with neck pain. A retrospective review of 298 patients with neck pain receiving PT from 2008 to 2011 was performed. Clinical outcomes, utilization, and charges were compared between patients who received guideline adherent care and nonadherent care. Patients in the adherent care group experienced a lower percentage improvement in pain score compared to nonadherent care group (p = .01), but groups did not significantly differ on percentage improvement in disability (p = .32). However, patients receiving adherent care had an average 3.6 fewer PT visits (p < .001) and less charges for PT (p < .001). Additionally, patients receiving adherent care had 7.3 fewer visits to other health care providers (p < ....
The development of a cocaine craving questionnaire

Two versions of a 45-item questionnaire on cocaine craving were administered to 225 cocaine users. The Now version asked about current craving for cocaine, and the General version asked about average craving over the preceding week. Factor analyses showed that a four-factor solution best described the item structure for both versions of the questionnaire. Higher-order analyses indicated that each version was permeated by a single second-order factor. Factor scales derived for each primary and second-order factor had moderate to high reliabilities. Examination of item content, correlations of factors across versions, and external correlates of the factors suggested that both versions were represented by the same hierarchical factor structure. The theoretical and clinical implications of the results from these craving instruments are discussed.
Plasma corticosterone levels during sexual behavior in male rats.

The activity of the pituitary-adrenal (p-a) system, as reflected in plasma levels of corticosterone, was determined in 14 male Long Evans rats during copulation, exposure to an open field and in control conditions. Plasma corticosterone concentration during copulation was higher than in control conditions (13.3 ± 1.2 vs 9.4 ± 1.2 μm%, p < .01), but well below mean levels obtained in the open field (21.2 ± 0.8 μm%). Individual data indicated that some males gave no evidence of p-a activation during sexual activity. Furthermore, animals which showed increased steroid levels during copulation tended to have longer latencies to reinitiate copulation after ejaculation and were behaviorally less active in a subsequent open field test. It was suggested that neither sexual arousal nor copulatory performance necessarily activates the p-a system. Males showing p-a activation may be slow to habituate to a novel stimulus and thus the elevated steroid levels may reflect an insufficient number of habituation trials with the receptive female.
Uniform Resource Identifiers and the Effort to Bring "Bibliographic Control" to the Web: An Overview of Current Progress

Unlike the Online Catalog, the Web does not offer an infrastructure for bibliographic control. In 1992, to deal with these inadequacies, the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) chartered the Uniform Resource Identifiers (URI) Working Group to discuss and develop standards for naming, describing and addressing Internet resources
Acetylated lysozyme as impurity in lysozyme crystals : constant distribution coefficient

Hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL) was acetylated to modify molecular charge keeping the molecular size and weight nearly constant. Two derivatives, A and B, more and less acetylated, respectively, were obtained, separated, purified and added to the solution from which crystals of tetragonal HEWL crystals were grown. Amounts of the A or B impurities added were 0.76, 0.38 and 0.1 milligram per millimeter while HEWL concentration were 20, 30 and 40 milligram per milliliter. The crystals grown in 18 experiments for each impurity were dissolved and quantities of A or B additives in these crystals were analyzed by cation exchange high performance liquid chromatography. All the data for each set of 18 samples with the different impurity and regular HEWL concentrations is well described by one distribution coefficient K = 2.15 plus or minus 0.13 for A and K = 3.42 plus or minus 0.25 for B. The observed independence of the distribution coefficient on both the impurity concentration and supersaturation is explained by the dilution model described in this paper. It shows that impurity adsorption and incorporation rate is proportional to the impurity concentration and that the growth rate is proportional to the crystallizing protein in solution. With the kinetic coefficient for crystallization, beta = 5.10(exp -7) centimeters per second, the frequency at which an impurity molecule near the growing interface irreversibly joins a molecular site on the crystal was found to be 3 1 per second, much higher than the average frequency for crystal molecules. For best quality protein crystals it is better to have low microheterogeneous protein impurity concentration and high supers aturation.
Referral patterns for endocrine surgical disease.

ABSTRACT Objective Referrals between physician specialties are common practice, and clear patterns develop. The increasing availability of high-volume endocrine surgery subspecialists with better outcomes may change these patterns. This study aimed to determine what factors influence endocrinologists’ referral patterns for the surgical treatment of endocrine disease. Methods A national, cross-sectional, voluntary survey of members of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists examined physician demographics, physician’s opinions on referral to endocrine surgery, preferred surgeon specialty, knowledge about surgeon characteristics, and how these factors influenced which surgeons they referred patients, as well as what changes in these factors would alter their referral patterns. Results The survey response rate was 15% (73/500), and 97% were endocrinologists. On average, 0 to 5 patients/ week were referred for surgery. Most respondents (91.8%) felt that endocrinologists should decide which surgeon to refer. General surgery was the preferred surgeon specialty (43.7%), and endocrine surgery was the preferred subspecialty (70.8%). The factors most often cited as very important in referral to a surgeon included surgeon outcome/ complications (71%), familiarity with surgeon (65%), surgeon’s communication with referring physician (61%), and surgeon volume (59%). The factors most often cited as likely to change physician referral patterns included patient satisfaction (62%), complication rates (57%), surgeon outcomes (54%), and surgeon volume (50%). The factors most often cited as unlikely to change referral patterns included new surgeon availability (70%) and hospital/surgeon advertising (58%). Conclusion Referring physicians want experienced endocrine surgeons with high operative volumes and good outcomes whom they are familiar with. The promotion of referral to high-volume surgeons requires communication, good outcomes, and satisfied patients. (Endocr Pract. 2014;20:571-575)
Quantum security for the physical layer

The physical layer describes how communication signals are encoded and transmitted across a channel. Physical security often requires either restricting access to the channel or performing periodic manual inspections. In this tutorial, we describe how the field of quantum communication offers new techniques for securing the physical layer. We describe the use of quantum seals as a unique way to test the integrity and authenticity of a communication channel and to provide security for the physical layer. We present the theoretical and physical underpinnings of quantum seals including the quantum optical encoding used at the transmitter and the test for non-locality used at the receiver. We describe how the envisioned quantum physical sublayer senses tampering and how coordination with higher protocol layers allows quantum seals to influence secure routing or tailor data management methods. We conclude by discussing challenges in the development of quantum seals, the overlap with existing quantum key distribution cryptographic services, and the relevance of a quantum physical sublayer to the future of communication security.
Methods of the quality assurance applied at the remote laboratory selection

Quality assurance principles applied at the remote laboratory network there are similarly with the same principles applied at the production process, which has as a result products used by society. Remote experiment is a product used by learners, a part of our society, with the main reason to increase the quality of knowledge. Learners are the consumers (the clients) and teachers are the producers. At limit, one student must to open all of the remote laboratories referred at the same experiment to be able to declare that his knowledge and image about this experiment there is complete. But, similarly with the classic production process, there are a various grades or levels of quality. These differences are the result of the intentional design of the experiment, determined by the level of the laboratories endowment, of the level of Internet connection, the type and complexity of the subjects approached in the remote way, the acceptance of national language or of the English ones. All of the above factors being intentional, the quality aspects are named QUALITY of DESIGN. There are other factors which influenced the quality of the remote laboratory. They are: hardware and software utilized for the remote experiment, knowledge level of the producers (teachers) and of the consumers (students), type of quality assurance system in use inside of the schools, assessment and evaluation rules applied for the student knowledge, etc. This group of factors will determine QUALITY of CONFORMANCE, indicating how well the laboratory works (as product) conforms to the specifications required by each training system who intend to use the remote experiment network. There is a considerable necessity of the clarifications about quality in the field of the remote laboratory network, many times above notions being often used without a clear distinction. Being a global system, the remote experiment network includes an unavoidable conflict between quality of design, which represents a local decision and quality of conformance, which is a global requirement. As a result, in the paper the authors want to propose the application of some statistics methods, to do the above distinction and to start new approach regarding quality assessment in the remote experiment network.
Enhanced interferon-αβ (IFN-αβ) and defective IFN-γ production in chronic graft versus host disease: A potential mechanism for immunosuppression

Abstract Immunosuppression is a well-characterized consequence of chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). We have previously shown that interferon (IFN) is produced in high levels during acute GVHD. Our objective in this study was to determine if IFN, as a cytokine with known immunosuppressive qualities, could be detected in mice experiencing chronic GVHD-induced immunosuppression. Two different experimental models were used to induce chronic GVHD. The first model involved the injection of parental strain spleen cells into adult F1 hybrids (AJ → B6AF1), while the second model utilized GVHD induced across minor histocompatibility barriers (B10·D2 → BALB/c). Results indicated that significant levels of serum IFN- α β are present in mice undergoing chronic GVHD. Spleen cells from chronic GVHD mice were also shown to produce significant levels of IFN- α β upon in vitro culture in medium only. This IFN- α β production was greatly increased when GVHD spleen cells were cultured with either concanavalin A (Con A) or IL-2. In contrast, IFN-γ production was undetectable in these Con A- or IL-2-containing cultures. Additionally, these same spleen cells which produced high levels of IFN- α β were immunosuppressed as measured by mitogen-induced cell proliferation. These results suggest that IFN-γ production is defective in GVHD spleen cells, and that the presence of high IFN- α β production by GVHD mice may contribute to the immunosuppression associated with chronic GVHD.
Crystal structure determination of 2′-nitro-10-phenylphenothiazine

The structure of the titled compound, 4, has been solved by x-ray analysis. One of the important structural features of 4 is that the 2′-nitrophenyl group is in the plane bisecting the phenothiazine ring which is in contrast to that of 10-(2′-pyrazyl)phenothiazine of 4′-nitro-10-phenylphenothiazine in which the 10-aryl group is perpendicular to the plane bisecting the phenothiazine ring. The structure of 4 is in agreement with its 1H and 13C nmr data which indicate that resonance interactions between the 2′-nitrophenyl group and the lone pair of electrons on N10 are hindered sterically by the 2′-nitro group.
Regulation of isocitrate lyase in a mutant of Rhodopseudomonas capsulata adapted to growth on acetate

Studies on acetate utilization by Rhodopseudomonas capsulata strain St. Louis indicated that the wild type grew poorly on acetate and made little if any of the glyoxylate cycle enzyme isocitrate lyase. A spontaneous mutant, Ac-l, capable of vigorous and immediate growth on acetate and exhibiting high levels of isocitrate lyase activity, was isolated in the course of those studies.
The biochemical pathology of ethionine-lnduced pancreatic damage: Ethionine incorporation into proteins, and ATP levels in pancreas of rats☆

Abstract Two biochemical mechanisms of possible pathogenetic significance in injury of cells by ethionine are synthesis of abnormal proteins by ethionine incorporation, and induction of ATP deficiency. These hypotheses were evaluated in relation to ethionine-in-duced pancreatic damage in rats. Ethionine incorporation into pancreatic protein was found to conform to the pattern which has been reported for several natural amino acids. Incorporation continued for at least 9 hours following a dose of 0.5 g per kg, apparently because a significant level of free ethionine persisted. The pancreas did not appear to have any unique tendency to incorporate ethionine into structural proteins when compared with liver and kidney, and therefore the results do not suggest that formation of abnormal proteins is of special significance in the pancreas. S-adenosylethionine accumulation and ATP deficit were demonstrated in pancreas 24 hours following single doses of ethionine (1 g per kg). However, at a lower dose which was adequate to produce severe pancreatic damage, there was no decrease in ATP in the pancreas. It therefore appears that the ethionine-induced pancreatic lesion cannot be attributed to ATP deficiency.
Pharmacologic causes of arrhythmogenic actions of antiarrhythmic drugs.

Abstract All currently known antiarrhythmic agents can induce or worsen arrhythmias. Inappropriate dosage selection, mistakenly based on pharmacokinetic data from “normal” subjects, may result in adverse reactions when an antiarrhythmic drug is given to patients. Unexpected variations in drug clearance can increase plasma concentration of antiarrhythmic agents and aggravate arrhythmias. Changes in the rate of drug metabolism by the liver, e.g., due to cessation of alcohol or drugs that induce hepatic metabolism, can reduce drug clearance, making a previously well-tolerated dose toxic. Another possible explanation for adverse drug reactions is nonlinear protein binding. Recently, genetic determinants of drug metabolism have been identified as explanations of interindividual variations in drug responsiveness. Finally, the interactions of antiarrhythmic agents may also lead to aggravation of arrhythmias. A better understanding of the pharmacology of antiarrhythmic agents can reduce, if not prevent, the occurrence of potentially lethal proarrhythmic events.
Desiring and Avoiding Close Romantic Attachment in Response to Mortality Salience

The purpose of this study was to examine individual differences in the effects of mortality salience on romantic attachment style. Participants were categorized as high or low in both agency and co...
Can We IMPROVE-CHF Management By Measuring Natriuretic Peptides?

Acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is a major public health problem throughout the world. In the United States alone, this condition accounts for >1 million hospitalizations annually, and it is likely that this number will increase in the future just as it has done over the past several decades.1 Although some progress has been made in reducing in-hospital death rates and length of hospital stay for ADHF, mortality and readmission rates over the 6-month period after discharge remain alarmingly high. In addition, costs of managing patients with ADHF are substantial, with ≈60% of all funds spent on heart failure being consumed during hospitalizations. Despite recognition of the importance of ADHF, however, there has been little progress in either defining universally accepted management strategies or generating new treatment approaches that alter these outcomes. Article p 3103 The use of biomarkers to detect risk, assess prognosis, and guide management of disease has been a major advance in the practice of medicine. Measurement of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) or the amino terminal fragment of the precursor protein (NT-proBNP) have been shown to be useful in detecting the presence of heart failure in dyspneic patients and in determining prognosis.2–4 Although measurement of these peptides is widely used, questions about whether the test results can effectively help guide management strategies and whether they lead to better outcomes at lower cost to the healthcare system have not been fully addressed.5,6 In this issue of Circulation , Moe and colleagues7 present results of the IMPROVE-CHF study in which they assess the incremental value of NT-proBNP levels in confirming the diagnosis of heart failure in patients who presented to the emergency department (ED) with dyspnea believed to be of cardiac origin and whether access to NT-proBNP levels leads to cost savings without compromising clinical …
An integrated approach to the analysis and modeling of protein sequences and structures. III. A comparative study of sequence conservation in protein structural families using multiple structural alignments.

The information required to generate a protein structure is contained in its amino acid sequence, but how three-dimensional information is mapped onto a linear sequence is still incompletely understood. Multiple structure alignments of similar protein structures have been used to investigate conserved sequence features but contradictory results have been obtained, due, in large part, to the absence of subjective criteria to be used in the construction of sequence profiles and in the quantitative comparison of alignment results. Here, we report a new procedure for multiple structure alignment and use it to construct structure-based sequence profiles for similar proteins. The definition of "similar" is based on the structural alignment procedure and on the protein structural distance (PSD) described in paper I of this series, which offers an objective measure for protein structure relationships. Our approach is tested in two well-studied groups of proteins; serine proteases and Ig-like proteins. It is demonstrated that the quality of a sequence profile generated by a multiple structure alignment is quite sensitive to the PSD used as a threshold for the inclusion of proteins in the alignment. Specifically, if the proteins included in the aligned set are too distant in structure from one another, there will be a dilution of information and patterns that are relevant to a subset of the proteins are likely to be lost. In order to understand better how the same three-dimensional information can be encoded in seemingly unrelated sequences, structure-based sequence profiles are constructed for subsets of proteins belonging to nine superfolds. We identify patterns of relatively conserved residues in each subset of proteins. It is demonstrated that the most conserved residues are generally located in the regions where tertiary interactions occur and that are relatively conserved in structure. Nevertheless, the conservation patterns are relatively weak in all cases studied, indicating that structure-determining factors that do not require a particular sequential arrangement of amino acids, such as secondary structure propensities and hydrophobic interactions, are important in encoding protein fold information. In general, we find that similar structures can fold without having a set of highly conserved residue clusters or a well-conserved sequence profile; indeed, in some cases there is no apparent conservation pattern common to structures with the same fold. Thus, when a group of proteins exhibits a common and well-defined sequence pattern, it is more likely that these sequences have a close evolutionary relationship rather than the similarities having arisen from the structural requirements of a given fold.
Ensemble averageability in network spectra

The extreme eigenvalues of connectivity matrices govern the influence of the network structure on a number of network dynamical processes. A fundamental open question is whether the eigenvalues of large networks are well represented by ensemble averages. Here we investigate this question explicitly and validate the concept of ensemble averageability in random scale-free networks by showing that the ensemble distributions of extreme eigenvalues converge to peaked distributions as the system size increases. We discuss the significance of this result using synchronization and epidemic spreading as example processes.
Stability analysis of controlled multiple-link robotic manipulator systems with time delays

Controlled robotic manipulator systems, normally operating in an acceptable manner, may become unstable, when time delays exist in the feedback loop. This instability may cause oscillations and thus deteriorate the system performance. In this paper we introduce a method to analyze the performance of robotic manipulators with small time delays in the feedback loop. Specifically, we may predict the limits of a stable system Operation, i.e., the robustness and expected system error bounds, as a function of the time delay and system parameters. The analysis method uses nonlinear control theory concepts, such as Lyapunov's second method, and takes advantage of norms to establish operational bounds. Previous research of time-delay systems analysis is also reviewed, in general, and pertaining to robotic controls, in particular. The results of the analysis can be displayed graphically and may be used to adjust the controller gains and trajectories to ensure satisfactory operation. Predictably, the system response is slowed as the time delay increases. The validity of the analysis is demonstrated with a numerical example of a two-link manipulator using a computed-torque controller. The time responses of the example, run on a computer-generated model, supports the analysis results and predicted performance.
Cross-ethnic Applicability of the Gender-based Attitudes Toward Marriage and Child Rearing Scales

The reliability and validity of Hoffman and Kloska’s (1995) Gender-based Attitudes toward Marital Roles (GATMR) and Gender-based Attitudes toward Child Rearing (GATCR) were assessed for a sample of Mexican American mothers and fathers (n = 167) of fifth-grade children in a large metropolitan area in the southwestern United States. Factor analysis was conducted, and the results suggest that the 6-item GATMR is conceptually distinct and reliable for this ethnic group. Correlation of GATMR scores for mothers and fathers with divisions of family labor suggest good validity. A 5-item revised GATCR demonstrated modest reliability and good construct validity. The value of these scales for work with Mexican American families is noted. Theoretical implications for gender socialization are explored, and suggestions for further research are offered.
T.O.6 Myostatin inhibitor ActIIb rescues atrophy and protects muscle growth signaling pathways in immobilization but not denervation

Abstract Myostatin, a member of the TGFβ signaling family, acts as a natural inhibitor of skeletal muscle growth via binding to the ActIIb receptor on the cell surface of myofibers. Because myostatin inhibition in a normal mouse induces profound muscle hypertrophy, we investigated the use of a soluble ActIIb receptor as a treatment for immobilization and denervation atrophy in mice. We found that immobilized mice were protected from atrophy after three weeks of administration of ActIIb as compared to the placebo treated group. In contrast, ActIIb treatment did not rescue muscle atrophy in denervated mice. Molecular analysis of the skeletal muscle from immobilized mice demonstrated that ActIIb treatment leads to the protection of several pro-growth pathways. We found that mice treated with ActIIb maintained mTOR signaling while the placebo immobilized group showed a significant decrease in many components of this pathway. The ActIIb treated group was also protected from the loss of anti-apoptotic and pro-growth Jak/Stat signaling markers as compared to placebo immobilized mice. In contrast, and in agreement with the muscle phenotype, molecular analysis of the denervated mice showed a loss of anti-apoptotic and an increase in pro-autophagic markers suggesting that these pathways mediate the loss of muscle mass. In addition, denervated mice demonstrated a pronounced disregulation of pro-growth markers in the Jak/Stat signaling cascade. Surprisingly, denervated mice revealed upregulation of many components of mTOR signaling cascade. As this pathway is associated with hypertrophy, we suggest that this is a compensatory mechanism to prevent further atrophy. These results highlight that myostatin inhibition is a valid therapeutic option for conditions associated with disuse atrophy, but not for denervation induced atrophy. Furthermore, our results indicate that different molecular mechanisms drive loss of muscle mass in immobilization and denervation atrophy.
A direct observation technique for evaluating sclerotium germination by Macrophomina phaseolina and effects of biocontrol materials on survival of sclerotia in soil

Germination of sclerotia of Macrophomina phaseolina was quantified by direct microscopic observation following application of experimental treatments in vitro and incubation of sclerotia in soil. To assay germination, pieces of agar containing sclerotia were macerated in dilute, liquid cornmeal agar on glass slides; thinly spread; and incubated in a saturated atmosphere for 18-22 h. Germinated sclerotia then were identified by morphological features of germ hyphae. Frequencies of germination were similar in three dilute agar media. Germination was not affected by air-drying sclerotia for 2 weeks, but it was significantly reduced after 4 weeks and greatly reduced or eliminated after 6 or 8 weeks. Survival of sclerotia for 14 days in soil was greatest at 50, 75, and 100% moisture-holding capacity, less at 0 and 25%, and least at 125% (flooded soil). Incorporation of ground poultry litter into soil at 5% by weight reduced survival of sclerotia after 13 days, and incorporation of litter at 10% nearly eliminated it. These results indicate that the direct-observation technique may be used to evaluate animal wastes and other agricultural byproducts for biocontrol activity against sclerotia of M. phaseolina in soil.
Women managed with fertility-sparing treatment for gynecologic cancers face an increased risk of miscarriage

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether serum b-hCG assays on cycle day (CD) 24 and 26 can be used to predict IVF pregnancy outcome. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All IVF patients were scheduled for luteal blood draws on CD 24 and 26. Pregnant patients from 1/04 to 12/11 who had CD 24, 26, and 28 bloods drawn (n1⁄42571) after fresh IVF were identified. Pregnancy outcomes were compared between patients whose first positive b-hCG (>5mIU/mL) occurred on CD 24 versus 26, and between patients with and without b-hCG doubling from CD 24 to 26, and 26 to 28. ROC curves were constructed for b-hCG levels on CD 24 and 26 as predictors of clinical pregnancy. Outcomes in the doubling analysis were stratified according to b-hCG value ( 50) on CD 28 for women 5. Those with CD 26 b-hCG 5. Patients with b-hCG doubling from CD 24 to 26 had a significantly higher CPR (88% vs. 20%, P 50 had a LBR of 84%. CONCLUSION: CD 24 and 26 b-hCG levels are useful for predicting pregnancy outcome in IVF patients. More work should be done to see whether absent b-hCG on CD 24 and CD 26 represents delayed implantation or poor intrinsic embryo viability.
Some Results from the Combinatorial Approach to Quantum Logic

The combinatorial approach to quantum logic focuses on certain interconnections between graphs, combinatorial designs, and convex sets as applied to a quantum logic (ℒ, S), that is, to a a-orthocomplete orthomodular poset ℒ and a full set of σ-additive states S on ℒ. Combinatorial results of interest in quantum logic appear in Gerelle et al. (1974), Greechie (1968, 1969, 1971a, b), Greechie and Gudder (1973), and Greechie and Miller (1970, 1972). In this article I shall be concerned only with orthomodular lattices ℒ and associated structures.
Geometric icons and conceptual analogies: A doublet of dynamic forms that reveal, express, and impel analogies

Psychologists’ spatial representations and conceptual analogies form a semiotic doublet by which patterns of their seminal ideas can be compared across different eras. One powerful reappearing idea is Freud’s concept that two logics alternate as forms of thought. This elemental idea entails the individual’s access to analogical thinking, its forms, and its effect on the person’s selection of logical form. To go a recursive step back, I search out the psychologist’s origin of ideas to explain analogy and the two logics. Probing the doublet illuminates the psychologist’s thought forms, semiotic combinations, and choices of logical patterns. Using it to compare different theorists’ concepts of the two logics and analogy reveals the continuously recursive nature of analogy and shows the durability of major ideas. Comparisons go back and forth in time and contribute to understanding the roots of ideas and to project their place and value in future models.
Calcium Dependence of Villin-Induced Actin Depolymerization

"Cutting" of actin filaments by villin was evaluated from the time course of filament depolymerization. Depolymerization was initiated by diluting polymerized actin, labeled with a fluorescent probe on either lysine-374 or cysteine-375, to a concentration well below the critical into a medium containing free villin and various concentrations of calcium (in addition to potassium and magnesium). It was observed that at high calcium concentrations (200 microM) the time course of depolymerization could not be described by the single exponential that defines it at low calcium and low villin levels. Instead, at high calcium, the exponent increased with time and the rate of depolymerization became greater than that of controls in the absence of villin. This contrasts with the inhibition of depolymerization by villin at low calcium. The latter inhibition is a consequence of the capping of the barbed filament end by villin as are the inhibition of filament elongation and the elevation of the critical concentration. Evidence is presented that the effects of villin at high calcium are the result of cutting of the actin filaments by villin. It thus appears that different calcium binding sites control capping and cutting and that the calcium binding sites regulating cutting have a much lower affinity for calcium than the sites regulating capping of the barbed filament ends.
‘Use what God has given me’: Difference and disparity in breast reconstruction

African-American women are significantly less likely to undergo postmastectomy breast reconstruction compared to white women in the USA. These observed differences have been interpreted as evidence...
Gender and perceived severity of cardiac disease: Evidence that women are “tougher”

Abstract Purpose Patients' beliefs about their disease may affect their willingness to engage in preventive health behaviors. We sought to determine whether men and women with acute coronary syndrome differ in their perceptions of the severity of cardiac-related illness while controlling for the clinical severity of their condition. Methods All patients with acute coronary syndrome discharged from a university hospital during a 3-year period were mailed a questionnaire, and medical records were abstracted. The questionnaire assessed perceived severity of cardiac-related illness (5-point scale from "very mild" to "very severe"), symptom frequency, type of acute coronary syndrome event, number of medications, Duke Activity Status Index (DASI), time since most recent cardiac event, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and demographic information. A logistic regression model was constructed with perceived severity of heart disease as the dependent variable. Gender was the key independent variable while controlling for the other patient and disease variables. Results The 490 respondents (1217 surveys sent, 40.3% response rate) included 348 men and 142 women who were similar with regard to race and type of acute coronary syndrome event experienced. Women were older, less educated, had a lower DASI score, had more symptoms, and were taking more medications. However, they perceived their cardiac disease as being no more severe than the men. The significant predictors in the regression model of perceived severity included gender, DASI, number of symptoms, type of acute coronary syndrome event, and comorbidity. Female gender was associated with lower perceived severity (odds ratio 0.30-0.80). Conclusions Women rate their cardiac disease as less severe than do men when controlling for other measures of cardiac disease severity.
Utilization of Extrinsically Manipulated Grade Contingencies as Motivators of School Learning.

The extrinsic manipulation did modity final examination performance without any detriment to intrinsic interests.
Hemoglobins, haptoglobins, and transferrins in indigenous populations of Kenya.

Hemoglobin, haptoglobin, and transferrin phenotypes were determined by means of starch-gel electrophoresis for a sample of 226 Kenya hospital patients. Allele frequencies were: HbβS=0.081; Hp1=0.057; TfD=0.038. Hemoglobin S was the only aberrant hemoglobin found in this sample. Transferrins C and D were the only transferrins found. Hemoglobin and transferrin phenotypes were also determined for a sample of 201 newborn Kenya infants. One of these infants had hemoglobins F, S, and C, eight had hemoglobins A, F, and S, and the remainder had hemoglobins A and F. Transferrins C, B, and D were found in this sample. Allele frequencies were: TfB=0.008; TfD=0.019.
Meat-Loving Microbes: Do Steak-Eating Bacteria Promote Atherosclerosis?

The importance of the interaction among diet, gut microbiota, and host genetics in modulating disease risk in humans is being increasingly recognized and studied. In this study, Koeth et al examined the interaction between dietary l-carnitine and gut microbiota in promoting atherosclerosis. Previous work from this group identified the metabolite trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) as being potentially proatherogenic, with increased plasma TMAO predicting cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. TMAO is present in some dietary sources, predominately seafood, but is mainly produced by hepatic oxidation of trimethylamine by flavin monooxygenases. Trimethylamine is derived in the gut by the action of bacteria on multiple diet–derived nutrients, including choline, phosphatidylcholine (lecithin), betaine, creatinine, and carnitine, and diffuses into the bloodstream through the intestinal wall. In this study, the authors hypothesized that dietary l-carnitine, found in high concentrations in red meat, promotes atherosclerosis through gut-mediated generation of TMAO. Koeth et al studied both humans and mice to test the relationship between dietary intake of l-carnitine and gut bacteria–mediated production of TMAO, as well as the development of atherosclerosis. Five volunteer omnivores were given an l-carnitine–rich meal (steak, containing ≈180 mg l-carnitine) combined with 250 mg isotope-labeled d3-l-carnitine supplementation. Plasma and urine samples …