cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Role of low-molecular-weight heparins in the management of patients with unstable angina pectoris and non–q-wave acute myocardial infarction

The development of effective approaches to the management of the unstable coronary syndromes has resulted from an improved understanding of interactions between the vascular wall, platelets, and coagulation factors, and of their response to pharmacologic and mechanical interventions. Furthermore, the occurrence of frequent adverse events after discharge in patients with unstable coronary artery disease (CAD) treated with these therapies alone would argue that, for many of these patients, such stabilization is not the end of the therapeutic pathway; rather, these therapies are for many a preparation for ultimate revascularization, to preserve myocardium and minimize periprocedural complications. The low-molecular-weight heparins with their unique pharmacology offer a new option in the therapy of patients with unstable CAD. There is now extensive experience in the use of several of the low-molecular-weight heparins, particularly dalteparin and enoxaparin, in the management of patients with unstable angina. Several trials have investigated the questions raised by these observations, taking advantage of the unique pharmacologic properties of the low-molecular-weight heparins for both acute inpatient use and prolonged outpatient administration. Although differences in study design preclude direct comparison between the available low-molecular-weight heparins, in these trials low-molecular-weight heparins have been shown to be effective alternatives to conventional heparin for the management of patients with unstable angina and non-Q-wave infarction. These include several small-scale trials and the larger FRagmin during InStability in Coronary artery disease (FRISC), Fragmin in Unstable Coronary Artery Disease (FRIC), Efficacy and Safety of Subcutaneous Enoxaparin in Non-Q-Wave Coronary Events (ESSENCE), FRISC II, and Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI)-11B trials. Thus, the low-molecular-weight heparins appear to be a superior alternative to traditionally administered intravenous unfractionated heparin. They are more predictable in action, do not require frequent activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) measurements and dosage adjustments, are easier to administer, and are potentially more efficacious. With their proven efficacy, predictability of action, and convenience of administration and dosing, there are very good reasons for selecting them as first-line therapies for patients presenting with unstable angina and non-Q-wave myocardial infarction.
S. cerevisiae α pheromone receptors activate a novel signal transduction pathway for mating partner discrimination

Summary Wild-type S. cerevisiae cells of both mating types prefer partners producing high levels of pheromone and mate very infrequently to cells producing no pheromone. However, some mutants that are supersensitive to pheromone lack this ability to discriminate. In this study, we provide evidence for a novel role of a pheromone receptors in mating partner discrimination that is independent of the known G protein-mediated signal transduction pathway. Furthermore, in response to pheromone, receptors become localized to the emerging region of morphogenesis that is positioned adjacent to the nucleus, suggesting that receptor localization may be involved in mating partner discrimination. Actin, myosin 2, and clathrin heavy chain are involved in mating partner discrimination, since strains carrying mutations in the genes encoding these proteins result in a small but significant defect in mating partner discrimination.
Effect of feeding rate and gas supersaturation on survival and growth of lake trout

Abstract Fingerling lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) were reared for 35 d in water with total dissolved gas pressures of 46, 78, 108, or 159 mm Hg above ambient conditions (▵P). Within each gas pressure treatment, daily feeding rations were (1) 1.7% of the total weight offish in the heaviest of three replicates, (2) 1.7% of the weight of fish in each individual tank, or (3) 0.9% of the weight in each tank (underfeeding). Signs of gas bubble trauma were first observed as hemorrhagic spots on the eyes of some fish reared at ▵P = 46, and external evidence of trauma increased as ▵P increased. All fish sampled at ▵P = 159 showed signs of gas bubble disease; the most common were eye hemorrhage and bubble formation inside the mouth. Mortality was 11% or less among fish reared at gas levels up to ▵P = 108. Mortality was as high as 55% at ▵P = 159, but did not differ among feeding treatments. Net weight gain by fish was low at ▵P = 159 because of both high mortality and slow growth. Growth was slowest for underfe...
Initial-Boundary Layer Associated with the Nonlinear Darcy-Brinkman System

Abstract We study the interaction of initial layer and boundary layer in the nonlinear Darcy–Brinkman system in the vanishing Darcy number limit. In particular, we show the existence of a function of corner layer type (so-called initial–boundary layer) in the solution of the nonlinear Darcy–Brinkman system. An approximate solution is constructed by the method of multiple scale expansion in space and in time. We establish the optimal convergence rates in various Sobolev norms via energy method.
Longitudinal trajectory of bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy

Objective This study was undertaken to characterize the course of bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy and to discern the bacterial morphotypes responsible for infection. Study Design Vaginal secretions were obtained in each trimester of pregnancy and were evaluated for bacterial vaginosis by Gram stain, categorized as normal or any of the following: Lactobacillus deficient, Gardnerella , Bacteroides , or Mobiluncus positive and by Nugent score. Results were evaluated for trends of bacterial vaginosis and Gram stain over pregnancy. Results One hundred forty-eight women were evaluated. Seventy-one women (48%) were bacterial vaginosis negative in all trimesters, compared with 14 (9.4%) who were positive throughout pregnancy. Among the 14 women who remained bacterial vaginosis positive, Gram stain findings were Gardnerella + Bacteroides + Lactobacillus , with approximately 50% harboring Mobiluncus . Few women become bacterial vaginosis positive as pregnancy progressed (6.1%). With each increasing week of pregnancy, the risk of becoming bacterial vaginosis positive decreased (0.93: 0.91-0.95; P Conclusion In this population, the majority of pregnant women trend toward bacterial vaginosis negative status. Few women are bacterial vaginosis positive across their pregnancy.
Identifying Class Size Effects in Developing Countries: Evidence from Rural Bolivia

This note implements two research designs that attempt to isolate the effect of class size on achievement. A first strategy focuses on variation in class size in rural schools with fewer than 30 students, and hence only one classroom, per grade. Second, an approach similar to Angrist and Lavy's exploits regulations that allow schools with more than 30 students in a given grade to obtain an additional teacher. Both designs suggest class size negatively affects test scores.
The maturation of photoreceptors in the avian retina is stimulated by thyroid hormone.

During retinal development, the cell-fate of photoreceptors is committed long before maturation, which entails the expression of opsins and functional transduction of light. The mechanisms that delay the maturation of photoreceptors remain unknown. We have recently reported that immature photoreceptors express the LIM domain transcription factors Islet2 and Lim3, as well as the cell-surface glycoprotein axonin1 [Fischer et al., (2008a) J Comp Neurol 506:584–603]. As the photoreceptors mature to form outer segments and express photopigments, the expression of the Islet2, Lim3 and axonin1 is diminished. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether thyroid hormone (TH) influences the maturation of photoreceptors. We studied the maturation of photoreceptors across the gradient of maturity that exists in far peripheral regions of the post-natal chicken retina [Ghai et al., (2008) Brain Res 1192:76–89]. We found that intraocular injections of TH down-regulated Islet2, Lim3 and axonin1 in photoreceptors in far peripheral regions of the retina. By contrast, TH stimulated the up-regulation of red-green opsin, violet opsin, rhodopsin and calbindin in photoreceptors. We found a correlation between the onset of RLIM (RING finger LIM-domain binding protein) and down-regulation of Islet2 and Lim3 in maturing photoreceptors; RLIM is known to interfere with the transcriptional activity of LIM-domain transcription factors. We conclude that TH stimulates the maturation of photoreceptors in the avian retina. We propose that TH inhibits the expression of Islet2 and Lim3, which thereby permits photoreceptor maturation and the onset of photopigment-expression.
The Observation/Inference Chart: Improving Students' Abilities to Make Inferences While Reading Nontraditional Texts

The Observation/Inference (OI) Chart is a strategy that can help students learn to make observations and inferences when reading nontraditional texts such as artifacts, paintings or movies. Nontraditional texts can be highly engaging and provide authentic thinking experiences for students, but they can also be difficult to comprehend. Teachers can use the OI Chart to help students think deeply about texts and to become more metacognitive. The OI Chart gives teachers a framework for providing visible strategy instruction as they teach about, model, and give opportunities for students to practice observing and using those observations to make inferences. Included are two examples of powerful history lessons that use OI Charts to help students read a painting and a movie.
INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES IN ACHIEVING TENDENCY: REVIEW OF EVIDENCE BEARING ON A QUESTIONNAIRE MEASURE

The Mehrabian Achieving Tendency Scale (MATS) provides a broad-scoped assessment of individual characteristics associated with achievement. The MATS is highly reliable and reasonably free of response bias. It correlated negatively with various measures of general (trait) anxiety and fear of success. The MATS successfully predicted performance in situations approximating real-life tests of work and school performance and academic attitudes (e.g., level of aspiration, interest and satisfaction, leadership and initiative). The MATS also predicted occupational choice and occupational/organizational commitment and attractive/appropriate self-presentation. Within a general model of personality and temperament, the MATS was shown to consist primarily of trait dominance and secondarily of trait pleasure. The model successfully predicted relationships of the MATS with a variety of personality measures.
Mobility of Foam in Heterogeneous Media: Flow Parallel and Perpendicular to Stratification

Experiments in homogeneous and heterogeneous sand-packed columns showed that the foam mobility in the two cases could differ by two orders of magnitude. The difference is because of the generation of foam lamellae by snap-off for flow across an abrupt increase in permeability. This mechanism is shown to be dependent on the degree of permeability contrast and the gas fractional flow. It has important implications for the degree of gravity segregation of gas and liquid in field-scale recovery processes.
The biphasic effect of nicotinic acid on plasma FFA levels

Abstract Nicotinic acid, which has been shown to be a potent inhibitor of lipolysis in vitro (1), depresses plasma free fatty acid (FFA) levels in rats, dogs (2) and man (3,4). In each of these species the initial FFA depression is followed by a rise to markedly elevated concentrations (FFA rebound). Earlier studies in rats have demonstrated that the FFA rebound response is mediated by the pituitary-adrenal system (2). An increase in plasma corticosterone levels was associated with the rise in plasma FFA concentrations. Studies of the time course of changes in plasma FFA levels suggested the possibility that the rebound response and the elevated levels of corticosterone were evoked by the initial depression of plasma FFA concentrations. To investigate this possibility studies of the effects of a wide range of doses of nicotinic acid on plasma FFA and corticosterone levels were undertaken.
Adolescents with Learning Disabilities at Risk? Emotional Well-Being, Depression, Suicide

As recently as 5 years ago, very little information on the emotional well-being of adolescents with learning disabilities (LD) was available. However, a great deal of research has been conducted recently and some of the implications are unnerving. Research on self-concept, attributions, anxiety, depression, and suicide among adolescents with LD is examined for the purpose of detecting consistency of indicators concerning these emotional and developmental variables. The research indicates that the emotional development of many adolescents with LD is not notably positive, and these students appear to be at increased risk for severe depression and suicide. The discussion highlights methodological pitfalls and developmental issues. Practical implications are suggested.
Serine utilization in the chick as influenced by dietary pyridoxine.

SummaryIn experiments with young chicks the addition of serine to a diet containing isolated soybean protein caused growth depression with marginal levels of pyridoxine. The growth depression can be overcome by the addition of extra dietary pyridoxine. Serine appeared to be readily converted to glycine and there is a suggestion that the metabolic defect is in the conversion of phosphatidylserine to phosphatidylcholine.We are grateful to the Diamond Shamrock Corporation, Fresno, California, for supplying of dl-methionine and vitamins A and D; to Central Soy, Fort Wayne, Indiana, for crude soybean oil and to Merck, Sharp and Dohme, Rahway, New Jersey, and Hoffmann-LaRoche, Inc., Nutley, New Jersey, for supplies of B-complex vitamins.
The effect of porosity distribution on ductile failure

Abstract T he effect of a nonuniform distribution of porosity on flow localization and failure in a porous material is analyzed numerically. The void density distribution and properties used to characterize the material behavior were obtained from measurements on partially consolidated and sintered iron powder. The calculations were carried out using an elastic viscoplastic constitutive relation for porous plastic solids. Local material failure is incorporated into the model through the dependence of the flow potential on void volume fraction. The region modelled is a small portion of a larger body, subject to various triaxial stress conditions. Both plane strain and axisymmetric deformations are considered with imposed periodic boundary conditions. Interactions between regions with higher void fractions promote plastic flow localization into a band. Local failure occurs by void growth and coalescence within the band. The results suggest a failure criterion based on a critical void volume fraction that is only weakly dependent on stress history. The critical void fraction does. however, depend on the initial void distribution and material hardening characteristics.
Developmental biology: A twist in a mouse tale.

Studies of the retinoblastoma gene can still deliver surprises, and enlightenment. Several of the abnormalities in mice lacking this gene are, it seems, the indirect consequence of a placental defect.
On the union of κ-round objects

A compact body c in Rd is κ-round if for every point p∈ ∂c there exists a closed ball that contains p, is contained in c, and has radius κ diam c. We show that, for any fixed κ>0, the combinatorial complexity of the union of n κ-round, not necessarily convex objects in R3 (resp., in R4) of constant description complexity is O(n2+e) (resp., O(n3+e)) for any e>0, where the constant of proportionality depends on e, κ, and the algebraic complexity of the objects. The bound is almost tight.
Configuration-interaction effects in molecular auger decay rates

Abstract Noted are pronounced configuration-interaction effects upon Auger decay probabilities in CO and CO2. In CO, transition probabilities for carbon KVV decay to the 1π−2 final states are reduced by a factor of 0.09 due to initial-state Cl mixing with the unoccupied 2π orbital. In CO2, these amplitudes for decay to the 1π−2g final states are increased by ≈102 due to mixing with the virtual 2πu orbital.
Modeling of the Association of Metal Ions with Heterogeneous Environmental Sorbents

The use of mechanistic (surface-complexation, electric-double layer) and semi-empirical (affinity spectrum) models for representation of the association of metal ions with heterogeneous environmental materials, such as humic acids and soil particle surfaces, is compared. It is seen that mechanistic models are not nearly as mechanistic as one generally assumes, and that semi-empirical models are much more valuable than one might assume by comparison to simple Kd, models. A semi-empirical discrete-log-K-spectrum model was used to describe the binding of Co(II), as a function of pH and NaClO4 concentration, to two environmental substrates: leonardite humic acid and a kaolinitic subsoil. Excellent agreement of the model and the data was obtained over a wide range of solution composition. These models appear to be the most promising among several alternatives for modeling interactions of metal ions with complex heterogeneous environmental materials over a wide range of solution composition.
A computer-aided design framework for superconductor circuits

This report describes a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) framework for superconducting digital circuits that will automatically transform a high-level combinational circuit description to a gate-level netlist. The framework involves enhancing the current semiconductor logic synthesis CAD tools developed at UC Berkeley (SIS) for application to superconductor digital circuits. The issues specific to superconducting circuits at the synthesis level include the use of multi-phase ac clocking for combinational logic, latching behavior with resetting time constraints, and dual-rail noninverting logic. >
Changes in field-level cropping sequences: Indicators of shifting agricultural practices

Abstract Farmers implement an assortment of management practices to ensure the sustainability, economic viability, and resilience of their operation. Dryland farming practices dominate in the semiarid regions of the US northern Great Plains, where historical practice has been to rotate small-grain cereals with whole-year summer fallow; however, pulse crops (e.g., lentils) have become increasingly common in these regions as an alternative to fallow. The area of fallow in northeastern Montana, for example, has decreased by one-third, while the area of pulse crops has increased more than five-fold. Our objectives were: (1) to characterize the principal cropping sequences in northeast Montana during the period of regional pulse crop adoption (2001–2012); and (2) to identify changes in the relative proportions of these sequences during the same period. We identified crops at the field-level by class (cereal, pulse, fallow, or cereal–fallow strips) for 2001–2012 using multitemporal Landsat imagery in conjunction with the cropland data layer, cadastral data, ground reference data, and local producers’ records. The annual crop classifications were combined into a 12-character string for each field that represented the sequence of crop classes for 2001–2012. We then searched these strings for specific 2- and 3-year crop sequences with a string-matching algorithm. The most abundant sequences involved continuous cereal, block-managed cereal–fallow, and cereal–pulse. We also observed a steady decrease in the abundance of cereal–fallow sequences managed by strip-cropping that were coincident with increases in block-managed cereal–fallow sequences and with increases in pulse production. We conclude that, over the study's time frame, regional producers grew more cereal crops and fallowed fields less frequently, but did not appear to strongly adhere to specific sequences. Furthermore, strip-cropping as a management practice has declined substantially.
Toxicity and bioaccumulation of TNT in marine fish in sediment exposures.

The bioaccumulation potential and toxicity of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) spiked to sediment was evaluated in juvenile sheepshead minnows (JSHM, Cyprinodon variegatus) and adult freckled blennies (FB, Hypsoblennius ionthas). The JSHM were exposed for 4 days in the presence or absence of a mesh separating fish from sediment. FB were exposed to sediment for 7 days. During the 24-day storage period (4 1C), extensive transformation of spiked TNT occurred and concentrations are expressed as the sum of TNT, aminodinitrotoluenes and diaminonitrotoluenes (SumTNT), on a dry weight basis. SumTNT in the overlying water, not exchanged during exposure, increased gradually. Survival was high (Z 90%) for JSHM exposed to 7 mg kg 1 and FB exposed to up to 260 mg kg 1 . All SHM died after 24 h exposure to 340 mg kg 1 . Isolation from sediment did not significantly affect water concentrations or decrease bioaccumulation. Uptake from contact to sediment was likely negligible and bioaccumulation was from the overlying water. The feeding rate of FB exposed to 1700 mmol kg 1 sediment suspended in water for 24-h was significantly reduced by 50%.
Polydisperse Aggregates of ZnO Nanocrystallites: A Method for Energy‐Conversion‐Efficiency Enhancement in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells

ZnO films consisting of either polydisperse or monodisperse aggregates of nanocrystallites were fabricated and studied as dye-sensitized solar-cell electrodes. The results revealed that the overall energy-conversion efficiency of the cells could be significantly affected by either the average size or the size distribution of the ZnO aggregates. The highest overall energy-conversion efficiency of ∼4.4% was achieved with the film formed by polydisperse ZnO aggregates with a broad size distribution from 120 to 360 nm in diameter. Light scattering by the submicrometer-sized ZnO aggregates was employed to explain the improved solar-cell performance through extending the distance travelled by light so as to increase the light-harvesting efficiency of photoelectrode film. The broad distribution of aggregate size provides the ZnO films with both better packing and an enhanced ability to scatter the incident light, and thus promotes the solar-cell performance.
Party Ideology in America: The National Republican Chapter, 1828–1924*

Conventional wisdom states that where ideas and values have mattered in American political life they have usually been the product of a single, overarching political culture. The United States, it is argued, has had political conflict but not ideological conflict. Perhaps nowhere is this premise more noticeable than in the study of political parties. According to Du-verger, “[T]he two parties are rival teams, one occupying office, the other seeking to dislodge it. It is a struggle between the ins and the outs, which never becomes fanatical, and creates no deep cleavage in the country.” Everett Carll Ladd writes, “[T]he need to seek support within an overarching ideological consensus, has historically imposed certain characteristics on the major American parties – social group inclusiveness, accommodationism, a ‘non-ideological’ stance vis-a-vis their principal opponents (which, after all, accept the same ideology).”
Endogenous opioids inhibit early-stage pancreatic pain in a mouse model of pancreatic cancer.

Background & Aims: The endogenous opioid system is involved in modulating the experience of pain, the response to stress, and the action of analgesic therapies. Recent human imaging studies have shown a significant tonic modulation of visceral pain, raising the question of whether endogenous opioids tonically modulate the pain of visceral cancer. Methods: Transgenic mice expressing the first 127 amino acids of simian virus 40 large T antigen, under the control of the rat elastase-1 promoter, that spontaneously develop pancreatic cancer were used to investigate the role of endogenous opioids in the modulation of pancreatic cancer pain. Visceral pain behaviors were assessed as degree of hunching and vocalization. Results Although mice with late-stage pancreatic cancer displayed spontaneous, morphine-reversible, visceral pain-related behaviors such as hunching and vocalization, these behaviors were absent in mice with early-stage pancreatic cancer. After systemic administration of the central nervous system (CNS)-penetrant opioid receptor antagonists naloxone or naltrexone, mice with early-stage pancreatic cancer displayed significant visceral pain-related behaviors, whereas systemic administration of the CNS-nonpenetrant opioid antagonist naloxone-methiodide did not induce an increase in visceral pain behaviors. Conclusions Our findings suggest that a CNS opioid-dependent mechanism tonically modulates early and late-stage pancreatic cancer pain. Understanding the mechanisms that mask this pain in early stage disease and drive this pain in late-stage disease may allow improved diagnosis, treatment, and care of patients with pancreatic cancer.
Understanding the role of the news media in HPV vaccine uptake in the United States: Synthesis and commentary

Vaccination rates for the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine fall below targets and only 2 states and the District of Columbia require the vaccine for middle school-age children. Messages conveyed ...
Sympathetic innervation of the anterior left ventricular wall by the right and left stellate ganglia.

Background The sympathetic nervous system is thought to play a role in the genesis of ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VT). Left and added right cardiac sympathectomy have been shown to reduce the burden of arrhythmias in the setting of a VT storm. However, the contribution of the right stellate ganglion (RSG) and the left stellate ganglion (LSG) to the innervation of the anterior left ventricular (LV) wall is not well understood. Objective To evaluate the innervation of the anterior LV wall by the LSG and the RSG. Methods The heart and stellate ganglia were exposed via sternotomy in pigs with normal hearts (n = 8). A 20-electrode catheter was placed on the anterior LV wall to record activation recovery interval (ARI), a surrogate measure of action potential duration. A microdialysis catheter was inserted in a similar location to sample interstitial norepinephrine (NE) content. ARI and NE measurements were recorded at baseline and during LSG and RSG stimulation. Results LSG stimulation shortened ARI by 17.1% ± 10.5% (mean ± standard error), while RSG stimulation shortened ARI by 42.1% ± 15.7%, P = .04 (LSG vs RSG). LSG stimulation increased interstitial NE levels by 200% ± 65%, while RSG stimulation increased the NE content by 260% ± 40% ( P = .012). LSG stimulation increased dispersion in ARI from 376.0 ± 83.7 ms 2 to 1242.5 ± 566 ms 2 ( P = .03) and caused ventricular fibrillation in 2 pigs. During RSG stimulation, dispersion increased from 419 ± 65.8 to 474.8 ± 81 ms 2 ( P = .4). Conclusions Both the LSG and the RSG provide significant innervation to the anterior LV wall as demonstrated by both ARI shortening and NE concentrations. LSG stimulation significantly increases ARI dispersion. This study provides mechanistic insight into the beneficial effects of left sympathectomy and the additional role of right sympathectomy in reducing arrhythmias in patients with anterior myocardial scars and VT storm.
Reduction of Nitric Oxide Synthase 2 Expression by Distamycin A Improves Survival from Endotoxemia

NO synthase 2 (NOS2) plays an important role in endotoxemia through overproduction of NO. Distamycin A (Dist A) belongs to a class of drugs termed minor-groove DNA binders, which can inhibit transcription factor binding to AT-rich regions of DNA. We and others have previously shown that AT-rich regions of DNA surrounding transcription factor binding sites in the NOS2 promoter are critical for NOS2 induction by inflammatory stimuli in vitro. Therefore, we hypothesized that Dist A would attenuate NOS2 up-regulation in vivo during endotoxemia and improve animal survival. C57BL/6 wild-type (WT) mice treated with Dist A and LPS (endotoxin) showed significantly improved survival compared with animals treated with LPS alone. In contrast, LPS-treated C57BL/6 NOS2-deficient (NOS2 −/− ) mice did not benefit from the protective effect of Dist A on mortality from endotoxemia. Treatment with Dist A resulted in protection from hypotension in LPS-treated WT mice, but not in NOS2 −/− mice. Furthermore, LPS-induced NOS2 expression was attenuated in vivo (WT murine tissues) and in vitro (primary peritoneal and RAW 264.7 murine macrophages) with addition of Dist A. Dist A selectively decreased IFN regulatory factor-1 DNA binding in the enhancer region of the NOS2 promoter, and this IFN regulatory factor-1 site is critical for the effect of Dist A in attenuating LPS induction of NOS2. Our data point to a novel approach in modulating NOS2 expression in vivo during endotoxemia and suggest the potential for alternative treatment approaches for critical illness.
Fibrinogen Induces Alterations of Endothelial Cell Tight Junction Proteins

We previously showed that an elevated content of fibrinogen (Fg) increased formation of filamentous actin and enhanced endothelial layer permeability. In the present work we tested the hypothesis that Fg binding to endothelial cells (ECs) alters expression of actin-associated endothelial tight junction proteins (TJP). Rat cardiac microvascular ECs were grown in gold plated chambers of an electrical cell-substrate impedance system, 8-well chambered, or in 12-well plates. Confluent ECs were treated with Fg (2 or 4 mg/ml), Fg (4 mg/ml) with mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK) kinase inhibitors (PD98059 or U0126), Fg (4 mg/ml) with anti-ICAM-1 antibody or BQ788 (endothelin type B receptor blocker), endothelin-1, endothelin-1 with BQ788, or medium alone for 24 h. Fg induced a dose-dependent decrease in EC junction integrity as determined by transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER). Western blot analysis and RT-PCR data showed that the higher dose of Fg decreased the contents of TJPs, occludin, zona occluden-1 (ZO-1), and zona occluden-2 (ZO-2) in ECs. Fg-induced decreases in contents of the TJPs were blocked by PD98059, U0126, or anti-ICAM-1 antibody. While BQ788 inhibited endothelin-1-induced decrease in TEER, it did not affect Fg-induced decrease in TEER. These data suggest that Fg increases EC layer permeability via the MEK kinase signaling pathway by affecting occludin, ZO-1, and ZO-2, TJPs, which are bound to actin filaments. Therefore, increased binding of Fg to its major EC receptor, ICAM-1, during cardiovascular diseases may increase microvascular permeability by altering the content and possibly subcellular localization of endothelial TJPs.
Können wir das Ansprechen auf die somatischen Therapien der Schizophrenie verbessern

Die somatische Therapie der Schizophrenie zu verbessern, erfordert eine genaue Beachtung der Diagnose, die Wahl der optimalen Dosierung und der Dauer der Behandlug fur den einzelnen Patienten.Diese Arbeit konzentriert sich auf die Diagnose und die medikamentose Therapie. Neuroleptika bleiben die wichtigste somatische Beandlungsart fur die Schizophrenie. Diese Behandlungen sollten im Zusammenhang mit dem gegenwartigen Wissen und den Kontroversen hinsichlich der diagnostischen Kriterien, mit dem Krankheitsverlauf, mit den verschiedenen klinischen Erscheinungsformen, die auch verschiedene Krankheitstypen reprasentieren konnen, betrachtet werden.
Imaging of Scleroderma

Systemic sclerosis is a rare autoimmune condition that affects a variety of organ systems. Knowledge of the imaging features in this patient population is essential in facilitating accurate diagnosis and guiding treatment. Common and rare imaging features of systemic sclerosis are reviewed in this article. Skin, musculoskeletal, pulmonary, cardiac, gastrointestinal, renal, and oral imaging are discussed. Conventional radiography, computed tomography of the chest, echocardiography, enterography, scintigraphy, and panorex dental imaging are reviewed. In addition, the evolving applications of ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate the musculoskeletal and cardiac features of systemic sclerosis are discussed.
Targeting an Audience of Robots: Search Engines and the Marketing of Technical Communication Business Websites

This paper explores the extent to which technical communication businesses with Websites are attempting to reach an audience of prospective clients through an intermediary audience of search engines. It draws on a survey of 240 principals of these businesses, brief interviews with half of them, and an analysis of their sites. Results show that search engines are among the most helpful methods leading people to these business sites and that higher levels of such search engine helpfulness are strongly associated with higher percentages of clientele who originate through these sites. Most businesses take search engines into account at least minimally; however, meaningfully pursuing that audience requires ongoing investments that some technical communication businesses are reluctant to make.
Numerical simulation of flow patterns in the entrance regions of the left and right coronary arteries

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is combined with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to simulate flow patterns in the aorta root and left and right coronary arteries. The vascular model was reconstructed from MRI obtained in vivo. The inlet section of the computational model is located above the aortic valve, where the 3D-velocity distribution was taken using phase contrast MR slices. The outflow waveforms in the coronaries were also based on phase contrast MR. The simulation results present the velocity distribution in the entrance regions of the coronaries and demonstrate the fact that the complex flow patterns in the ascending aorta affect the flow details in the coronaries.
New Generation of Digital Microfluidic Devices

This paper reports on the design, fabrication, and performance of micro-sized fluidic devices that use electrowetting to control and transport liquids. Using standard microfabrication techniques, new pumping systems are developed with significantly more capability than open digital microfluidic systems that are often associated with electrowetting. This paper demonstrates that, by integrating closed microchannels with different channel heights and using electrowetting actuation, liquid interfaces can be controlled, and pressure work can be done, resulting in fluid pumping. The operation of two different on-chip pumps and devices that can form water drops is described. In addition, a theory is presented to explain the details of single-electrode actuation in a closed channel.
Acyclic diene metathesis depolymerization of elastomers

The facile reversibility of acyclic diene metathesis (ADMET) polymerization is reported; by driving this equilibrium, condensation type polymerization toward monomer with an excess of ethylene, polymers synthesized by ADMET (poly(1-octenylene) polynorbornene) and three commercial elastomers (polybutadiene, polyisoprene and a Kraton sample) can be depolymerized according to the reaction (=CH−R−CH=) n +CH 2 =CH 2 ⇇CH 2 =CH−R−CH=CH 2
Sensor-based Planning for Planar Multi-Convex Rigid Bodies

This paper presents a method for a planar rigid body consisting of multiple convex bodies to explore an unknown planar workspace, i.e., an unknown configuration space diffeomorphic to SE(2). This method is based on a roadmap termed concave hierarchical generalized Voronoi graph (concave-HGVG). Just as in our previous work, we decompose the free configuration space into contractible cells in which we define the concave generalized Voronoi graphs (concave-GVG), and then connect these graphs using an additional structure termed one-tangent edges. Since the robot consists of multiple convex bodies, the one-tangent edges are defined using the diameter function of the convex hull of the convex bodies as well as the individual convex bodies. These two structures together form the concave-HGVG, which is a one-dimensional roadmap of the multi-convex bodies in plane. Both components are defined in terms of workspace distance measurement, and thus the concave-HGVG can readily be constructed in a sensor-based way.
Detecting shopper groups in video sequences

We present a generalized extensible framework for automated recognition of swarming activities in video sequences. The trajectory of each individual is produced by the visual tracking sub-system and is further analyzed to detect certain types of high-level grouping behavior. We utilize recent findings in swarming behavior analysis to formulate a problem in terms of the specific distance function that we subsequently apply as part of the two-stage agglomerative clustering method to create a set of swarming events followed by a set of swarming activities. In this paper we present results for one particular type of swarming: shopper grouping. As part of this work the events detected in a relatively short time interval are further integrated into activities, the manifestation of prolonged high-level swarming behavior. The results demonstrate the ability of our method to detect such activities in congested surveillance videos. In particular in three hours of indoor retail store video, our method has correctly identified over85% of valid '"shopper-groups'" with a very low level of false positives, validated against human coded ground truth.
Fully depleted dual-gated thin-film SOI P-MOSFETs fabricated in SOI islands with an isolated buried polysilicon backgate

P-channel dual-gated thin-film silicon-on-insulator (DG-TFSOI) MOSFETs have been fabricated with an isolated buried polysilicon backgate in an SOI island formed by epitaxial lateral overgrowth (ELO) of silicon. This structure allows individual operation of both the top and back gates rather than the conventional common backgate structure. When fully-depleted, the buried gate is used to individually shift the top gate threshold voltage (V/sub T/). A linear shift of /spl Delta/V/sub T,top///spl Delta/V/sub G,back/ of 0.5 V/V was achieved with a thin buried oxide. The effective density of interface traps (D/sub it/) for the backgate polysilicon-oxide SOI interface was measured to be 1.8/spl times/10/sup 11/ #/cm/sup 2//spl middot/eV as compared to the substrate-oxide of 1.1/spl times/10/sup 11/ #/cm/sup 2//spl middot/eV.
Thoughts on Agenda Setting, Framing, and Priming

This article discusses similarities and differences between “second-level” agenda setting and framing, and between priming and agenda setting. It presents data on the number of studies of agenda setting, framing, and priming indexed by Communication Abstract from 1971 to 2005, and it offers some conclusions about the cognitive processes involved in agenda setting, priming and framing.
The P5abc peripheral element facilitates preorganization of the tetrahymena group I ribozyme for catalysis.

Phylogenetic comparisons and site-directed mutagenesis indicate that group I introns are composed of a catalytic core that is universally conserved and peripheral elements that are conserved only within intron subclasses. Despite this low overall conservation, peripheral elements are essential for efficient splicing of their parent introns. We have undertaken an in-depth structure -function analysis to investigate the role of one of these elements, P5abc, using the well-characterized ribozyme derived from the Tetrahymena group I intron. Structural comparisons using solution-based free radical cleavage revealed that a ribozyme lacking P5abc (E ¢P5abc ) and E ¢P5abc with P5abc added in trans (E ¢P5abc ‚P5abc) adopt a similar global tertiary structure at Mg 2+ concentrations greater than 20 mM (Doherty, E. A., et al. (1999) Biochemistry 38, 2982-90). However, free E ¢P5abc is greatly compromised in overall oligonucleotide cleavage activity, even at Mg 2+ concentrations as high as 100 mM. Further characterization of E ¢P5abc via DMS modification revealed local structural differences at several positions in the conserved core that cluster around the substrate binding sites. Kinetic and thermodynamic dissection of individual reaction steps identified defects in binding of both substrates to E ¢P5abc , with g25-fold weaker binding of a guanosine nucleophile and g350-fold weaker docking of the oligonucleotide substrate into its tertiary interactions with the ribozyme core. These defects in binding of the substrates account for essentially all of the 10 4 - fold decrease in overall activity of the deletion mutant. Together, the structural and functional observations suggest that the P5abc peripheral element not only provides stability but also positions active site residues through indirect interactions, thereby preferentially stabilizing the active ribozyme structure relative to alternative less active states. This is consistent with the view that peripheral elements engage in a network of mutually reinforcing interactions that together ensure cooperative folding of the ribozyme to its active structure.
Filter banks for analysis-reconstruction systems: a tutorial

The problems and issues that arise in systems based on analysis/synthesis filter banks are discussed. A historical perspective of advances made in the development of systems and in the understanding of the problem is presented. The authors define the general system-design problem for one and two dimensions and highlight some of the major contributions to this area over the past 15 yr, beginning with the invention of tree-structured filter banks based on quadrature mirror filters. The emerging application area is reviewed, and the evolution from one-dimensional to multidimensional designs and realizations is discussed. >
Is the Mirror Racist? Interrogating the Space of Whiteness

This essay draws on a wide range of feminist, psychoanalytic and other anti-racist theorists to work out the specific mode of space as ‘contained’ and the ways it grounds dominant contemporary form...
Water soluble paste survey for fine pitch SMT attach

Off-the-shelf water-soluble solder pastes for fine pitch (0.025-in), surface mount technology (SMT) attach applications were assessed. Twenty solder paste material vendors were surveyed. Seventeen claimed to have a water soluble paste (WSP), either on the market or in development. These pastes were evaluated with two experimental methods: manufacturing line usability testing, followed by surface insulation resistance (SIR) reliability testing. The usability matrix was designed to assess each paste's performance in each of the key process steps: screen printing, component placement, paste reflow, and board cleaning. Rosin mildly activated (RMA) paste performance in these areas was used as a benchmark for the water soluble materials. Only three pastes met all of the desired criteria. These were, subsequently, reliability tested. An additional, very fine pitch (0.020-in), screen printing experiment was performed to determine the extensibility of the selected pastes. >
Celiac disease: advances in diagnosis

Celiac disease (CD) is characterized by small intestinal damage, which is mediated by a gluten-driven inflammatory response. Establishing a robust diagnosis is critical for improved quality of life and prevention of co-morbidities, although treatment is associated with a substantial life-long burden of care for patients and families. Unfortunately, CD remains a challenging diagnosis. As awareness of the disease increases, more diagnoses of CD are being made by primary care physicians. In fact, many patients may not present to a gastroenterologist because their symptoms are not clearly linked to a gastrointestinal pathology. Also, many patients are starting a gluten-free diet without prior testing, a circumstance that leads to even more confusion. Lastly, the number of serologic and genetic tests, and the role of endoscopy, can be confusing. The purpose of this review is to examine diagnostic testing strategies, focusing on published guidelines, for the evaluation of patients with suspected CD.
Slob: security learning by ontology browsing: comprehensive cyber security learning resources in a web portal

Ontologies represent knowledge of a domain that can be used for data annotation, natural language processing, data integration, etc. In this project, an ontology is used to support learning and teaching. We present the SLOB (Security Learning by Ontology Browsing) Web Portal that brings together many learning resources for college-level cyber security classes at one central location. SLOB provides simple access to multi-media data, including videos, PowerPoint presentations, book pages, images and scientific papers in a unified framework. These resources are indexed by a Cyber Security Ontology created in this project, which provides definitions and hierarchical context for domain concepts. In addition, SLOB integrates social media cyber security sources, both targeted towards specific ontology concepts and general purpose cyber security. The methodology and approach are transferable to any knowledge-based teaching domain for which an ontology has been created.
Diseases Transmitted by Man’s Best Friend: The Dog

The relationship between dogs and humans is ancient and mutually beneficial. Dogs have served people well as companions, workmates, guides, and protectors. However, on occasion, dogs may injure humans through biting or may transmit pathogens resulting in a large number of problems ranging from a trivial rash to life-threatening bacteremia. Given that there are more than 80 million pet dogs in the United States, it is worth knowing the potential problems that can result from canine exposure. Annually, almost 5 million people in the United States suffer a dog bite. Dog bite wounds become infected up to 15% of the time. In those who have had a splenectomy, a dog bite may transmit the bacterium Capnocytophaga canimorsus, leading to life-threatening bacteremia. Other illnesses that humans can acquire from dog contact include ringworm, diarrheal disease (salmonellosis, campylobacteriosis, and intestinal parasites), leptospirosis, brucellosis, Q fever, visceral larva migrans, and echinococcosis. Evidence exists that the family dog may serve as a reservoir for uropathogenic Escherichia coli that can lead to urinary tract infections among human household contacts. In this article we discuss dog-related infectious diseases as well as measures to minimize dog-associated illness (e.g., do not disturb sleeping dogs; HIV-infected persons who wish to acquire a puppy should have the dog's stool checked for Cryptosporidium).
Zeolite matrix assisted decomposition of singlet oxygen sensitizers during photooxidation

Abstract Thiazine dyes such as thionine, methylene blue and methylene green were exchanged within monovalent cation exchanged Y zeolites. Depending on the water content the dye molecules exist as either monomer (‘dry’) or dimer (‘wet’). The monomeric dye is effective in producing singlet oxygen by energy transfer process inside the zeolite cavity. In polar zeolites like LiY, NaY energy transfer predominates whereas in basic zeolites like CsY electron transfer overtakes the energy transfer leading to the photo-destruction of the dye. While on short time of irradiation, energy transfer to oxygen led to selectivity in the product distribution, but on prolonged irradiation, destruction of the dye through electron transfer was the main outcome.