cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Role of Bisphosphonates in Vascular calcification and Bone Metabolism: A Clinical Summary.

Background Vascular calcification is known to be a strong risk factor for cardiovascular adverse events and mortality. Atherosclerosis, diabetes, aging, abnormal bone mineral homeostasis and high uremic milieu such as chronic kidney disease are major factors that contribute to the progression of vascular calcification. Several mechanisms such as the osteoblastic transition of vascular smooth muscle cells in response to oxidative stress have shed light on the active nature of vascular calcification, which was once thought to be a passive process. The fine interplay of regulatory factors such as PTH, vitamin D3, FGF 23 and klotho reflect the delicate balance between vascular calcification and bone mineralization. Any disturbance affecting this equilibrium of the bonemineral- vascular axis results in accelerated vascular calcification. Bisphosphonates share similar mechanism of action as statins, and hence several studies were undertaken in humans to verify if the benefits proven to be obtained in animal models extended to human models too. This yielded conflicting outcomes which are outlined in this review. This was attributed mainly to inadequate sample size and flaws in the study design. Therefore, this benefit can only be ascertained if studies addressing this are undertaken. Conclusion This review seeks to highlight the pathophysiologic phenomena implicated in vascular and valvular calcification and summarize the literature available regarding the use of bisphosphonates in animal and human models. We also discuss novel treatment approaches for vascular calcification, with emphasis on chronic kidney disease and calciphylaxis.
Presenter-to-Go

Teaching medical students, faculty, and staff about software they can run on their personal digital assistants (PDAs) can be tricky. Get more than two people in the class and the gather-around-the-PDA method just does not work. Enter Presenter-to-Go: a hardware and software kit that perfects PDA presentations.
Puberty-Influencing Chemosignals in House Mice: Ecological and Evolutionary Considerations

It is my purpose here to review the experimental evidence to date regarding urinary chemosignals excreted by house mice (Mus musculus) that affect puberty in young females. For many rodents, including house mice, the age of puberty may generally be equated with generation time. That is, attaining sexual maturation often means that the female rodent also begins to reproduce. The rate of growth or decline of populations of a variety of rodent species can be influenced significantly by changes in generation time.
First Encounters, Service Experience, Parting Impressions: Examining the Dynamics of Service-Learning Relationships

Through a collected case study, this research study examines the relationships between college students and community partners in three separate service-learning projects. Although all of the service-learning relationships can be characterized as transactional, the reciprocity within each relationship manifests in different ways based on the presence and complexity of Mills’ (2012) “four furies.” Findings from this study can inform and help to redeem university– community partnerships operating under less than ideal conditions (e.g., limited service-learning hours, unorganized service-learning projects). The study suggests that transactional service-learning relationships have merit and can serve as a positive introduction to service-learning for both college students and community partners.
Integrating exposure to chemicals in building materials during use stage

There do not currently exist scientifically defensible ways to consistently characterize the human exposures (via various pathways) to near-field chemical emissions and associated health impacts during the use stage of building materials. The present paper thus intends to provide a roadmap which summarizes the current status and guides future development for integrating into LCA the chemical exposures and health impacts on various users of building materials, with a focus on building occupants. We first review potential human health impacts associated with the substances in building materials and the methods used to mitigate these impacts, also identifying several of the most important online data resources. A brief overview of the necessary steps for characterizing use stage chemical exposures and health impacts for building materials is then provided. Finally, we propose a systematic approach to integrate the use stage exposures and health impacts into building material LCA and describe its components, and then present a case study illustrating the application of the proposed approach to two representative chemicals: formaldehyde and methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) in particleboard products. Our proposed approach builds on the coupled near-field and far-field framework proposed by Fantke et al. (Environ Int 94:508–518, 2016), which is based on the product intake fraction (PiF) metric proposed by Jolliet et al. (Environ Sci Technol 49:8924–8931, 2015), The proposed approach consists of three major components: characterization of product usage and chemical content, human exposures, and toxicity, for which available methods and data sources are reviewed and research gaps are identified. The case study illustrates the difference in dominant exposure pathways between formaldehyde and MDI and also highlights the impact of timing and use duration (e.g., the initial 50 days of the use stage vs. the remaining 15 years) on the exposures and health impacts for the building occupants. The proposed approach thus provides the methodological basis for integrating into LCA the human health impacts associated with chemical exposures during the use stage of building materials. Data and modeling gaps which currently prohibit the application of the proposed systematic approach are discussed, including the need for chemical composition data, exposure models, and toxicity data. Research areas that are not currently focused on are also discussed, such as worker exposures and complex materials. Finally, future directions for integrating the use stage impacts of building materials into decision making in a tiered approach are discussed.
Extended Hamiltonian molecular dynamics: semiclassical trajectories with improved maintenance of zero point energy.

It is well known that classical trajectories, even if they are initiated with zero point energy (ZPE) in each mode (trajectories initiated this way are commonly called quasiclassical trajectories), do not maintain ZPE in the final states. The energy of high-frequency modes will typically leak into low-frequency modes or relative translation of subsystems during the time evolution. This can lead to severe problems such as unphysical dissociation of a molecule, production of energetically disallowed reaction products, and unphysical product energy distributions. Here a new molecular dynamics method called extended Hamiltonian molecular dynamics (EHMD) is developed to improve the ZPE problem in classical molecular dynamics. In EHMD, two images of a trajectory are connected by one or more springs. The EHMD method is tested with the Henon–Heiles Hamiltonian in reduced and real units and with a Hamiltonian with quartic anharmonicity in real units, and the method is found to improve zero-point maintenance as intended.
The role of parenting stress in mediating the relationship between neighborhood social cohesion and depression and anxiety among mothers of young children in fragile families

This study was designed to examine the roles of neighborhood social cohesion and parenting stress in influencing maternal mental health outcomes among primarily low-income, unmarried, urban mothers. Structural equation modeling was conducted using cross-sectional Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study data (N = 3,876), to test the hypotheses that neighborhood social cohesion would be associated with depression and anxiety among mothers with children aged 3 years and that this relationship would be mediated by parenting stress. The mediation model demonstrated good fit, χ2 (796) = 3169.07, p < .001; comparative fit index = 0.96; root mean square error of approximation = 0.028 [90% confidence interval [0.027, 0.029]. Parenting stress partially mediated the effect of social cohesion on maternal depression (indirect effect: -0.04, p < 0.001) and anxiety (indirect effect: -0.05, p < 0.001); higher reported neighborhood social cohesion was associated with lower parenting stress, which was associated with a decreased likelihood of maternal anxiety and depression. Efforts to bolster neighborhood social cohesion may improve maternal mental health outcomes by reducing parenting stress.
Hang Time and March Madness

In March many announcers talk about a player’s “hang time,” T.In March many announcers talk about a player’s “hang time,” T.
High Prevalence of Slow Transit Constipation in Patients With Gastroparesis.

Background/aims Current evidence suggests the presence of motility or functional abnormalities in one area of the gastrointestinal tract increases the likelihood of abnormalities in others. However, the relationship of gastroparesis to chronic constipation (slow transit constipation and dyssynergic defecation) has been incompletely evaluated. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients with chronic dyspeptic symptoms and constipation who underwent both a solid gastric emptying scintigraphy and a high-resolution anorectal manometry at our institution since January 2012. When available, X-ray defecography and radiopaque marker colonic transit studies were also reviewed. Based on the gastric emptying results, patients were classified as gastroparesis or dyspepsia with normal gastric emptying (control group). Differences in anorectal and colonic findings were then compared between groups. Results Two hundred and six patients met the inclusion criteria. Patients with gastroparesis had higher prevalence of slow transit constipation by radiopaque marker study compared to those with normal emptying (64.7% vs 28.1%, P = 0.013). Additionally, patients with gastroparesis had higher rates of rectocele (88.9% vs 60.0%, P = 0.008) and intussusception (44.4% vs 12.0%, P = 0.001) compared to patients with normal emptying. There was no difference in the rate of dyssynergic defecation between those with gastroparesis vs normal emptying (41.1% vs 42.1%, P = 0.880), and no differences in anorectal manometry findings. Conclusions Patients with gastroparesis had a higher rate of slow transit constipation, but equal rates of dyssynergic defecation compared to patients with normal gastric emptying. These findings argue for investigation of possible delayed colonic transit in patients with gastroparesis and vice versa.
Evaluating narrative operative reports for endoscopic sinus surgery in a residency training program.

Objective The narrative operative report (NR) bears testimony to critical elements of patient care. Residents' NRs also provide insights into their comprehension of the procedure. NR documentation is an informal element of surgical residency training but data regarding quality of such training are scant. We aim to evaluate the NR within a residency training program. Methods The quality of NRs for endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) was evaluated through a retrospective analysis of 90 NRs for ESS. Thirty-four elements that the attending surgeon regards as "critical" variables, or quality indicators (QIs), that should be documented, were studied to evaluate quality. A "performance metric (PM)," defined as the average percent of QIs dictated/total word count, was determined. Subgroup analysis by the level of training was additionally performed. Results Surgical indications, procedural steps, and immediate postoperative findings were accurately documented in 71%, 84%, and 82% of patients, respectively. The attending surgeon had the highest proportion of included key elements (89% ± 6.2%) followed by junior residents (87% ± 5.7%) and then senior residents (80% ± 14%) (P = .008). The attending surgeon also demonstrated the highest PM, followed by senior and then junior residents (P Conclusions The quality of NRs was found to be high overall, but not "perfect" for either the attending or trainee surgeon. The PM among residents was expectedly lower than the attending surgeon. We propose that a synoptic reporting system that ensures inclusion of key elements may be helpful in training residents (and attendings) in creating comprehensive and efficient NRs. Level of evidence 3.
GPVI inhibitor as antitumor gateway drug.

In this issue of Blood, Volz et al establish a potential antitumor strategy by exploiting the selective requirement for platelets to maintain vascular integrity within the tumor microenvironment.1 Their work demonstrates, for the first time, that functional inhibition of platelet-specific surface receptor glycoprotein (GP) VI, using F(ab′)2 fragments to avoid platelet clearance, increases intratumoral hemorrhage and concomitant tumor cell apoptosis, as well as enhanced accumulation of chemotherapeutic drugs. These effects work additively to inhibit tumor growth, achieving results similar to those achieved by platelet depletion.2,3
Einfluss des systemtheoretischen Denkens auf die Informatik oder Die 10 Gebote einer ganzheitlichen , objektorientierten Anwendungsentwicklung

Im vorliegenden Kapitel wird der Einfluss systemtheoretischen Denkens auf die Informatik anhand von 10 Geboten dargelegt. Zu bedenken ist, dass es sich bei Geboten um Anordnungen handelt, die ein positives Handeln fordern, um ein Chaos zu verhindern. Gebote gebieten, WAS zu tun bzw. zu unterlassen ist und uberlassen das WIE und das WARUM — wenn uberhaupt — der Bibel. Ganz ahnlich verhalt es sich mit den hier zur Sprache kommenden Geboten. Sie besagen, WAS zu tun ist, um das angesprochene globale Denken und lokale Handeln moglichst gezielt in die Tat umzusetzen, uberlassen das WIE und das WARUM aber einschlagigen Lehrbuchern. Angesprochen sind insbesondere:
Chapter Five – Hydraulic Fracturing

Hydraulic fracturing (hydraulic fracture stimulation, fraccing) is a process through which a large number of fractures are created mechanically in the rock, thus allowing the natural gas and/or crude oil trapped in subsurface formations to move through those fractures to the wellbore from where it can then flow to the surface. Hydraulic fracturing can both increase production rates and increase the total amount of gas that can be recovered from a given volume of shale. Pump pressure causes the rock to fracture, and water carries sand (“proppant”) into the hydraulic fracture to prop it open allowing the flow of gas. While water and sand are the main components of hydraulic fracture fluid, chemical additives are often added in small concentrations to improve fracturing performance. It is the purpose of this chapter to present the details of hydraulic fracturing and the means by which the process is applied to tight shale formation and other tight formations. The chapter stresses the importance of understanding where hydraulic fracturing fits into the entire drilling, well construction/completion and production phases of natural gas and crude oil recovery activities.
How to Use YouTube for Radiology Education

YouTube, the most commonly used free video-sharing platform globally, is increasingly being used as an educational tool in Radiology. Trainees worldwide now have the opportunity to learn about medical imaging at their own pace in the comfort of their homes, without geographical and financial constraints. Unfortunately, because YouTube is an easily accessible platform, it also incurs the risk of disseminating erroneous medical information or low-quality educational content. This article outlines the primary considerations when creating educational content on YouTube, including technical aspects, best practices, and measures to maximize effectiveness and success. Additionally, we discuss the current usage of the platform for Radiology education and its advantages and disadvantages and list some of the most popular Radiology YouTube channels.
Current aboveground live tree carbon stocks and annual net change in forests of conterminous United States

With the introduction of the Trillion Trees Initiative and similar programs, forests’ ability to absorb carbon dioxide is increasingly in the spotlight. Many states have mandates to develop climate action plans, of which forest carbon is an important component, and planners need current information on forest carbon stocks and rates of change at relevant spatial scales. To this end, we examine rates of average annual change in live aboveground tree carbon in different forest type groups and provide state-wide and regional summaries of current live tree carbon stock and rates of change for the forests of the conterminous United States. Forest carbon summaries are presented in a format designed to meet the needs of managers, policymakers, and others requiring current estimates of aboveground live tree carbon at state and regional scales. Regional average aboveground live tree carbon stocks (represented on a per area basis) are generally between 40 and 75 tC/ha but range from 12.8 tC/ha in the Great Plains to 130 tC/ha in the Pacific Northwest West (west-side of Cascades). Regional average annual change in live aboveground tree carbon varies from a low of − 0.18 mtC/ha/y in the Rocky Mountain South to a high value of 1.74 mtC/ha/y in Pacific Northwest West. For individual states, carbon per unit area varies widely, from a low of 11.9 tC/ha in Nevada to a high of 96.4 tC/ha in Washington, with half the states falling between 50 and 75 tC/ha. Rates of average annual change in live aboveground tree carbon vary from a high of 1.82 tC/ha/y in Mississippi to a low of − 0.47 tC/ha/y in Colorado. Aboveground live tree carbon stocks and rates of average annual change vary by forest type within regions. While softwood forest types currently exhibit a higher rate of increase in the amount of carbon in aboveground live tree biomass, the current standing stock of carbon per unit area does not consistently follow this pattern. For this reason, we recommend computing and considering both measures -standing stock and average annual change—of carbon storage. The relative importance of each component will depend on management and policy objectives and the time frame related to those objectives. Harvesting and natural disturbance also affect forest carbon stock and change and may need to be considered if developing projections of potential carbon storage.
From Selling to Subscription Model in the Enterprise Software Market: A Paradigm Shift?

The current study examines the driving forces behind enterprise software providers' adoption of the subscription-based pricing model. I identify and model two special features of enterprise software products: consumers’ uncertainty about their true valuations for the product prior to adoption and the high upfront implementation cost. I develop a dynamic model with an infinitely-living monopoly software vendor and overlapping generations of consumers. The results show that in a steady state, when consumers know their true valuations, the three licensing formats, pure selling, pure leasing (subscription-based) and concurrent selling and leasing, are equally profitable. When uncertainty exists, however, any one of the three licensing formats could be optimal depending on the magnitude of the implementation cost, demand distribution and the accuracy of the signal. The results offer interesting insights into the emerging adoption of the subscription-based pricing strategy. Future directions are discussed at the end.
Molecular cloning and characterization of a rat homolog of CAP, the adenylyl cyclase-associated protein from Saccharomyces cerevisiae

We have isolated a rat cDNA whose expression suppresses the physiological consequences of the chromosomal disruption of CAP, the gene encoding the adenylyl cyclase-associated protein of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Yeast CAP is a bifunctional protein: the NH2 terminus is necessary and sufficient for cellular responsiveness to activated RAS proteins, while the COOH terminus is required for normal cellular morphology and growth control. The rat MCH1 cDNA encodes a protein of 474 amino acids that is 36% identical to S. cerevisiae CAP and is capable of suppressing the loss of the COOH-terminal functions of CAP when expressed in yeast. The MCH1 protein therefore appears to be a structural and functional homolog of the yeast cyclase-associated proteins. Northern analysis of MCH1 gene expression shows it to be constitutively expressed in all cell and tissue types examined. The cloning of a rat homolog of CAP, in addition to the cloning of a human CAP homolog by Matviw et al. (Matviw, H., Yu, G., and Young, D. (1992) Mol. Cell. Biol. 12, 5033-5040), demonstrates that both cyclase-associated proteins and their functions may have evolved with mammalian cells.
Severity of the metabolic syndrome as a predictor of type 2 diabetes between childhood and adulthood: the Princeton Lipid Research Cohort Study.

The aim of this study was to determine the long-term associations of a sex- and race/ethnicity-specific metabolic syndrome (MetS) severity z score from childhood and adulthood with a future diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. We performed a prospective cohort study with evaluations from the Cincinnati Clinic of the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute Lipids Research Clinic (LRC) 1973–1976 and Princeton Follow-up Study (PFS) 1998–2003, and further disease status from the Princeton Health Update (PHU) 2010–2014. We assessed MetS severity as a predictor of incident type 2 diabetes among 629 cohort participants assessed at both the LRC and PFS and 354 participants at the PHU. Cohort participants had a mean age of 12.9 years at baseline (LRC), 38.4 years at the PFS and 49.6 years at the most recent follow-up. Childhood MetS z scores were associated with adult MetS z scores (p < 0.01). Compared with individuals who were disease-free at all time-points, those who developed type 2 diabetes by 1998–2003 and 2010–2014 had higher MetS severity z scores in childhood (p < 0.05). For every one-unit elevation in childhood MetS z score, the OR of developing future type 2 diabetes was 2.7 for incident disease by a mean age of 38.5 years (p < 0.01) and 2.8 for incident disease by a mean age of 49.6 years (p < 0.05). Regarding associations with the change in z score from childhood to adulthood, for every one-unit increase in MetS z score over time the OR of developing incident type 2 diabetes by a mean age of 49.6 years was 7.3 (p < 0.01). The severity of MetS in childhood was associated with the incidence of adult type 2 diabetes and the degree of increase in this severity predicted future disease. These findings provide evidence of potential clinical utility in assessing MetS severity to detect risk and follow clinical progress over time.
Evidence‐based practice barriers and facilitators from a continuous quality improvement perspective: an integrative review

Solomons N.M. & Spross J.A. (2011) Journal of Nursing Management 19, 109–120 Evidence-based practice barriers and facilitators from a continuous quality improvement perspective: an integrative review Aims The purpose of the present study is to examine the barriers and facilitators to evidence-based practice (EBP) using Shortell’s framework for continuous quality improvement (CQI). Background EBP is typically undertaken to improve practice. Although there have been many studies focused on the barriers and facilitators to adopting EBP, these have not been tied explicitly to CQI frameworks. Methods CINAHL, Academic Search Premier, Medline, Psych Info, ABI/Inform and LISTA databases were searched using the keywords: nurses, information literacy, access to information, sources of knowledge, decision making, research utilization, information seeking behaviour and nursing practice, evidence-based practice. Shortell’s framework was used to organize the barriers and facilitators. Results Across the articles, the most common barriers were lack of time and lack of autonomy to change practice which falls within the strategic and cultural dimensions in Shortell’s framework. Conclusions Barriers and facilitators to EBP adoption occur at the individual and institutional levels. Solutions to the barriers need to be directed to the dimension where the barrier occurs, while recognizing that multidimensional approaches are essential to the success of overcoming these barriers. Implications for nursing management The findings of the present study can help nurses identify barriers and implement strategies to promote EBP as part of CQI.
Home-Environment and Entertainment Remote [control aid for disabled persons]

The Home-Environment and Entertainment Remote controls room temperature, window coverings and a stereo for a client with spina bifida. A motor under control of the remote operates the opening and closing of the curtains. The remote control displays the temperature and controls the thermostat using IR. The stereo is controlled by the remote by mimicking the existing control signal of the stereo receiver. This device is unique in that all three functions are controlled by a single remote controller.
The Canyon Diablo impact event: 2. Projectile fate and target melting upon impact

Abstract– Despite its centennial exploration history, there are still unresolved questions about Meteor Crater, the first recognized impact crater on Earth. This theoretical study addresses some of these questions by comparing model results with field and laboratory studies of Meteor Crater. Our results indicate that Meteor Crater was formed by a high-velocity impact of a fragmented projectile, ruling out a highly dispersed swarm as well as a very low impact velocity. Projectile fragmentation caused many fragments to fall separately from the main body of the impactor, making up the bulk of the Canyon Diablo meteorites; most of these fragments were engulfed in the expansion plume as they approached the surface without suffering high shock compression, and were redistributed randomly around the crater. Thus, the distribution of Canyon Diablo meteorites is not representative of projectile trajectory, as is usual for impactor fragments in smaller strewn fields. At least 50% of the main impactor was ejected from the crater during crater excavation and was dispersed mostly downrange of the crater as molten particles (spheroids) and highly shocked solid fragments (shrapnel). When compared with the known distribution, model results suggest an impactor from the SW. Overall, every model case produced much higher amounts of pure projectile material than observed. The projectile-target mixing was not considered in the models; however, this process could be the main sink of projectile melt, as all analyzed melt particles have high concentrations of projectile material. The fate of the solid projectile fragments is still not completely resolved. Model results suggest that the depth of melting in the target can reach the Coconino sandstone formation. However, most of the ejected melt originates from 30–40 m depth and, thus, is limited to Moenkopi and upper Kaibab material. Some melt remains in the target; based on the estimated volume of the breccia lens at Meteor Crater, our models suggest at most a 2% content of melt in the breccia. Finally, a high water table at the time of impact could have aided strong dispersion of target and projectile melt.
Designing Efficient Oxygen Scavenging Coating Formulations for Food Packaging Applications

Modified atmosphere packaging is widely used to prolong the shelf life of many oxygen-sensitive items including food, pharmaceuticals, work of art and so on. For food packaging applications, we investigated the effectiveness of oxygen scavenging coatings and flexographic printing ink formulations made using water soluble and water insoluble ascorbate enzyme systems. The present study summarizes the effects of various parameters on the oxygen scavenging rates and other performance aspects of the formulations. It is shown that; the initial oxygen scavenging rate can be increased by increasing the surface area of Calcium Ascorbate crystals and addition of catalyst or edible oil; addition of a catalyst like TiO2 or Alumina and an edible oil in Ascorbate and laccase-based formulations induces a synergistic effect upon the rate of scavenging oxygen from the packages; an efficient oxygen scavenging coating formulation can be made using water soluble Calcium Ascorbate and insoluble Ascorbate Palmitate containing enzyme and substrate; designing an efficient oxygen scavenging formulation using water insoluble Ascorbate Palmitate can reduce or eliminate formation of effluent which has potential to change the aperral of food items inside the package; an adverse effect of some binders which cause a reduction in the oxygen scavenging rate can be eliminated by making blends of different binders. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Does chronotropic incompetence occur in interstitial lung disease

Introduction: Chronotropic Incompetence (CI) is an attenuated heart rate (HR) response to exercise that has been widely established as a predictor of mortality in general populations and in patients with heart disease. CI has not been studied in patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) despite abnormalities in pulmonary hemodynamics and cardiopulmonary parameters. Objectives: Our primary aim was to see whether CI exists in patients with ILD during maximal exercise testing. Methods: This is a retrospective review of 482 patients with ILD who underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) at Columbia University Human Performance Laboratory between 10/1999 and 2/2011. Patients had CPET with concurrent pulmonary function tests (PFT). Comparisons were made with paired samples t-test. Results: The mean PFT and CPET variables for the 482 patients (aged 56.6±11.0 years) analyzed are shown in table 1. Usual heart rate reserve used (HRRU) is 85% in normal subject populations. Conclusions: Marked CI was observed in patients with interstitial lung disease in a large cohort. This abnormality may have implications for long term survival as cardiac mortality and cardiac comorbidity are common as ILD progresses with possible development of pulmonary hypertension and right heart failure. Further investigation with assessment of mortality risk and possible identification of interventions to improve CI may help to improve outcomes in this patient population.
TRANSFORMATION OF BACILLUS SUBTILIS TO MOTILITY AND PROTOTROPHY: MICROMANIPULATIVE ISOLATION OF BACTERIA OF TRANSFORMED PHENOTYPE

Stocker, B. A. D. (Stanford Medical Center, Palo Alto, Calif.). Transformation of Bacillus subtilis to motility and prototrophy: micromanipulative isolation of bacteria of transformed phenotype. J. Bacteriol. 86:797–804. 1963.—A nonmotile (nonflagellated, fla−) try− strain of Bacillus subtilis was transformed to fla+ and to try+ by wild - type deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) at comparable rates. Bacteria of fla+ phenotype were recognized by their motility approximately 3 hr after uptake of DNA, and bacteria of try+ phenotype at about the same time by their elongation into filaments in a medium lacking tryptophan. Of phenotypically transformed bacteria of each sort isolated by micromanipulation, the majority produced only transformed progeny, a mixture of transformed and untransformed, or a mixture of two kinds of transformant. Some produced only untransformed progeny, or progeny transformed only at a locus linked to that concerned in their phenotypic transformation. In a few clones, some partial heterozygotes were present even ten generations after DNA uptake. In nonmotile clones derived from motile isolates, the unilinear transmission of motility to one to four descendants was detected; it is attributed to persistence of a corresponding number of units of some product of an unincorporated fla+ gene, probably flagella or cell walls each carrying several flagella. No pedigrees indicating unilinear transmission of an unincorporated fla+ gene were observed.
Anchoring Notch Genetics and Biochemistry: Structural Analysis of the Ankyrin Domain Sheds Light on Existing Data

Notch signaling is important in development and in human disease. Notch receptors regulate transcription through direct interactions with several proteins at the promoter regions of target genes. To understand the mechanism of Notch signaling, numerous deletion and mutagenesis studies have been carried out to identify functional domains in Notch, but domain definition and their role during the assembly of the transcriptionally active complex remains controversial. Recently reported biophysical and structural studies of the Notch ANK domain permit us to reevaluate the existing domain assignments and their predicted functional role, thereby providing further insight into the mechanism of Notch signaling.
Effects of vitamin A and/or thyroidectomy on liver microsomal enzymes and their induction in 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-treated rats

Abstract Vitamin A and thyroid hormone status have been shown previously to alter the toxicity of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) in rats. In the present study, we have examined the effects of a vitamin A-excess and a vitamin A-deficient diet on thyroid hormone levels, on selected drug-metabolizing enzymes in liver microsomes, and on their inducibility by TCDD in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Except for a slight increase in serum T3 levels, none of these end points was affected by feeding rats the vitamin A-deficient diet. In contrast, excess dietary vitamin A caused a decrease in serum thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) levels, although the levels of T3 remained in the euthyroid range (60–80 ng/dl). The concentration of liver microsomal cytochromes P-450 and b5 and the basal activity of benzo[a]pyrene hydroxylase and 7-ethoxyresorufin O-de-ethylase were unaffected by excess dietary vitamin A. This result is consistent with our previous observation that the basal activity of these enzymes is dependent more on T3 than on T4 levels. Vitamin A excess markedly suppressed the activity of liver microsomal UDP-glucuronosyl transferase toward 1-naphthol. However, no such enzyme suppression was observed in thyroidectomized rats. This suggests that the suppressive effect of vitamin A on UDP-glucuronosyl transferase activity may be dependent on T3. Neither vitamin A nor thyroid status had any major effect on the inducibility of UDP- glucuronosyl transferase and cytochrome P-450-dependent enzyme activities by TCDD. However, vitamin A and TCDD had a nearly additive effect on suppression of serum T4. It is concluded that liver microsomal enzyme induction is not associated with the modulatory effect of vitamin A and thyroid hormones on the toxicity of TCDD.
Status Struggles: Network Centrality and Gender Segregation in Same- and Cross-Gender Aggression

Literature on aggression often suggests that individual deficiencies, such as social incompetence, psychological difficulties, or troublesome home environments, are responsible for aggressive behav...
Mechanisms of Action of VIP and PACAP in the Stimulation of Insulin Release

VIP and PACAP stimulate insulin release by interaction with the VIP-2/PACAP-3 receptor on the beta cell. Activation of the receptor results in Gs-mediated stimulation of adenylyl cyclase and increased cellular cyclic AMP levels. Increased cyclic AMP results in a small and transient increase in [Ca2+]i, which is likely to have only a small and transient effect on the secretion rate. Cyclic AMP also potentiates insulin secretion by an as yet unknown action at a distal site. A third action of VIP and PACAP is responsible for the continued stimulation of insulin secretion after the levels of cyclic AMP and [Ca2+]i have returned to basal values. This third pathway, which is identified at present only by its sensitivity to low concentrations of wortmannin, plays a major role in the prolonged stimulation of insulin release by VIP and PACAP.
A challenge to communication empiricists: Let's be more forthcoming about what we do

(1994). A challenge to communication empiricists: Let's be more forthcoming about what we do. Western Journal of Communication: Vol. 58, The Dialogue of Evidence: A Topic Revisited, pp. 25-31.
Traveling-molecular-orbital-expansion studies of electron capture in collisions of fully stripped ions (Z=6-9) with H and H2.

The traveling-molecular-orbital-expansion description has been employed to investigate electron capture in collisions of fully stripped ions (Z = 6--9) with H and H/sub 2/ in the energy regime from 0.14 to 9 keV/amu. The pseudopotential method was used to represent the H/sub 2/ /sup +/ core which enables us to treat the H/sub 2/ molecule as an atom having an ionization potential for H/sub 2/..-->..H/sub 2/ /sup +/. Features of the adiabatic potentials and corresponding radial coupling matrix elements at the ''reaction window'' as well as the quantitative results of relatively small-scale close-coupling calculations provide a rationale for the interpretation of a recent measurement for these systems by Meyer et al. (Phys. Rev. A 32, 3310 (1985)). For collisions of O/sup 8+/ with H, an extended molecular-orbital-expansion approach has been employed (i) to seek an understanding of the discrepancy evident in two recent independent large-scale calculations for n = 6 partial cross sections, and (ii) to obtain a quantitative test for the mechanism suggested in this paper.
Poststroke Spasticity Management

Poststroke spasticity (PSS) is a common complication associated with other signs and symptoms of the upper motor neuron syndrome, including agonist/antagonist co-contraction, weakness, and lack of coordination. Together, they result in impairments and functional problems that can predispose to costly complications. The goal of PSS management should take into consideration not only reduction of muscle hypertonia but also the impact of PSS on function and well-being. Therapeutic interventions focus on peripheral and central strategies, such as physical techniques to increase muscle length through stretching and pharmacological modulation. Although there are few comparative studies on the superiority of one method over another, it appears that optimal management of PSS involves a combined and coordinated compendium of therapies that encompass cost-effective pharmacological and surgical interventions, along with rehabilitative efforts. Spasticity, commonly defined as “a motor disorder characterized by a velocity-dependent increase in tonic stretch reflexes with exaggerated tendon jerks, resulting from hyperexcitability of the stretch reflex, as one component of the upper motor neuron syndrome,”1 is a common complication of stroke. It contributes to the impairments and disabilities that negatively impact functional recovery. Consequently, PSS, along with weakness and lack of coordination, result in gait abnormalities and problems with arm use. In addition to functional limitations, spasticity, when inappropriately treated, may lead to reduced quality of life, increased pain, and joint contractures. Three community-based studies that followed-up stroke survivors for 3 to 12 months reported an incidence of PSS between 17% and 43%.2–4 Certain factors are recognized as predictors of PSS: stroke lesions in the brain stem; hemorrhagic stroke and younger age;5 and severe paresis and hemihypesthesia at stroke onset.3 To quantify the full impact of PSS, assessment should include a measure of passive stretch, volitional movement, and active/passive function.6,7 The benefit of …
Endocrine Role of Follicles in the Regulation of Corpus Luteum Function in the Rabbit

In order to study the luteotrophic action of estrogen in rabbits, X-irradiation was used to destroy follicles which are the presumed sources of this hormone. Rabbits with an X-irradiated ovary containing only corpora lutea and interstitial tissue aborted following the removal of a contralateral ovary which contained all normal ovarian components except corpora lutea. In sham-operated animals, pregnancies were maintained to term, demonstrating that X-irradiation or surgical trauma did not interfere with normal corpus luteum function. It was shown experimentally that: 1) Maintenance of pregnancy by exogenous progestin following hemicastration failed to prevent regression ofcorpora lutea in the X-irradiated ovary and cessation of progesterone secretion; 2) hemicastration of pseudopregnant rabbits caused regression of corpora lutea in the X-irradiated ovary and terminated the secretion of progesterone; 3) luteinizing hormone (225 μg/day) alone and in combination with prolactin (1.5 mg/day) failed to prevent a...
Modulation of Lupus Phenotype by Adiponectin Deficiency in Autoimmune Mouse Models

Adiponectin is an adipocyte-derived cytokine with anti-inflammatory properties. Paradoxically, circulating adiponectin levels are increased in a number of inflammatory diseases. Thus, we sought to define the role of adiponectin deficiency in mouse models of autoimmunity. Adiponectin-deficient mice on a C57BL/6 background do not develop an autoimmune phenotype. Autoimmunity was also not observed in adiponectin-deficient mice generated on the permissive MRL background. However, adiponectin deficiency exacerbated the autoimmune phenotype of MRL-lpr mice. Compared with MRL-lpr mice, MRL-lpr.apn−/− mice displayed greater lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly, as well as increased anti-nuclear antibody and anti-dsDNA production. In addition, evaluation of the kidney revealed larger glomerular tuft size, crescent formation, increased IgG and C3 deposits, and mesangial expansion in the MRL-lpr.apn−/− mice. The effects of adiponectin deficiency on the autoimmune phenotypes were more pronounced in female versus male mice. These data show that, while adiponectin deficiency is not sufficient to confer autoimmunity, adiponectin acts as a negative modulator of the autoimmune phenotype in a murine model of lupus.
EFFECT OF VARYING AMOUNT OF REALISTIC DETAIL IN VISUAL ILLUSTRATIONS DESIGNED TO COMPLEMENT PROGRAMMED INSTRUCTION

This experiment was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of 8 types of visual illustrations used to complement programmed instruction. The various types of visual illustrations were evaluated in ...
Effective Thermo-Elastic Constants Angle-Ply Laminates Containing 90 Degree Ply Cracks

Effective elastic moduli and thermal expansion coefficients for a composite containing transverse cracks through the middle layers are determined analytically. The laminate portion of the layered composite is treated as a single plate with effective properties (global laminate model), and the ply clusters are modeled as a homogeneous, orthotropic material (local model). The global model is a displacement based, higher order laminated plate theory, while the local model is a stress based homogeneous plate theory. Both models include the effect of transverse shear and normal stresses. This global/local scheme leads to considerable flexibility in modeling cracked laminates without resorting to an inordinate number of degrees of freedom. Numerical results are compared to other approaches.
Defect-Induced Shifts in the Elastic Constants of Silicon

As MEMS devices become ever more sensitive, even slight shifts in materials properties can be detrimental to device performance. Radiation-induced defects can change both the dimensions and mechanical properties of MEMS materials, which will be of concern to designers of MEMS for applications involving radiation exposure, such as those in a reactor environment or in space. We have performed atomistic simulations of the effect that defects and amorphous regions, such as could be produced by radiation damage, have on the elastic constants of silicon. We have then applied the results of the elastic constant shift calculations to a hypothetical MEMS device, and calculated the difference that would be generated by this effect.
Sildenafil (viagra) facilitates weaning of inhaled nitric oxide following placement of a biventricular-assist device

Sildenafil is a selective phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. We report the use of sildenafil to blunt the rebound pulmonary hypertension seen following withdrawal of inhaled nitric oxide (NO) and milrinone. The relatively long duration of sildenafil's action on pulmonary artery pressures and lack of systemic hemodynamic effect make it an attractive option to facilitate weaning of inhaled NO.
Measurement of the mobility distribution of tropospheric ions

The analysis is given for an improved aspiration-type mobility chamber which suppresses the growth of boundary layers and turbulence at the electrodes by employing converging-channel geometry. The distribution of small ions in air as a function of their mobility is determined from data taken with the converging-channel chamber. The results show that the distribution of positive ions is quite stable with an average mobility of about 1.35 cm2 volt−1 sec−1 (at STP). The negative-ion distribution is broader, less stable, and the average mobility shifts from about 2.1 to 1.7 cm2 volt−1 sec−1 with the addition of water vapor. The effect of Aitken nuclei upon the mobility distribution is also discussed. The results are compared with previous measurements.
Furosemide-Induced Increase in Urinary and Peritoneal Excretion of Uric Acid During Peritoneal Dialysis in Patients with Chronic Uremia

Intermittent peritoneal dialysis was performed in 17 patients with chronic uremia in order to observe the effect of furo-semide added to the dialysate on urinary and peritoneal elimination of uric acid. Two kinds of dialysate were used: moderately hypertonic (osmolality, 431.2 mOsm/kg of water) and slightly hypertonic (osmolality, 368.9 Osm/kg of water). Significant increases in urine volume, urinary and peritoneal excretion of uric acid, and renal and peritoneal clearances were found. The increase in urinary excretion of uric acid exceeded that of urine volume. These findings were interpreted to be the result of furosemide action on renal function after being transferred through the peritoneum into the blood stream with the concomitant increase in the uric acid shift from the circulation into the peritoneal cavity. We concluded that the addition of furosemide is useful in increasing uric acid elimination in patients with chronic uremia.
Algal biomass as a binding agent for the densification of Miscanthus

Purpose Lignocellulosic biomass has been regarded as an important future energy source due to its excessive availability; however, the wide application of this material for many applications is restricted by the high costs associated with densification, transportation, thermo-chemical pretreatment and conversion. In order to increase the density of lignocellulosic biomass, it is typically compressed into pellets or briquettes. This frequently requires the addition of additives, which may negatively impact the economics of the process. Environmentally-friendly binding agents that can be obtained inexpensively are therefore desirable. This study examines the change in physicochemical properties of densified Miscanthus straw where algae were used as a binding agent.