cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Trends in long-term management of survivors of acute myocardial infarction by cardiologists in a government university-affiliated teaching hospital.

.Departments of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Florida, and the VA Medical Center, Gainesville, Florida, USASummaryBackground: Despite prospective randomized control trialsshowing that beta blockers, aspirin, angiotensin-convertingenzyme (ACE) inhibitors, and lipid-lowering agents improvesurvival rates after myocardial infarction (MI), these agentsare routinely underutilized.Hypothesis: Our aim was to determine the frequency withwhich cardiologists at a government, university-affiliatedteaching hospital prescribe aspirin, beta blockers, ACE in-hibitors, calcium-channel blocking agents (CCBs), and lipid-lowering agents in patients post MI. The patients were fol-lowed by their primary care physicians in this hospital afterdischarge. We evaluated changes in patients’ medical man-agement at an average of 24 months after discharge from theacute event.Methods:Clinical data relative to long-term use of life-sav-ing drugs in 156 survivors of definite MI (WHO criteria) at agovernment, university-affiliated teaching hospital were ana-lyzed over a 24-month follow-up period.Results:Over 90% of patients with acute MI were given as-pirin and beta blockers at discharge. About 50% of these pa-tients were given ACE inhibitors, only 25% were prescribedCCBs, and 21% were given lipid-lowering agents. At 24months of follow-up, the percentage of patients receiving as-pirin, beta blockers, and ACE inhibitors had fallen to 88% (p = 0.0408), 71% (p<0.0001), and 43% (p = 0.1122), respec-tively, whereas use of lipid-lowering agents slightly increased(p = 0.4277). Use of CCBs had also fallen (p = 0.0001).Nonetheless, the use of aspirin, beta blockers, and ACE in-hibitors was higher than that in the National Registry of simi-lar patients at discharge (p<0.0001). Conclusions:Patients at a government, university-affiliatedteaching hospital are likely to receive life-saving therapy atdischarge, in accordance with the American College of Cardi-ology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) guidelines.There is a modest decrease in intake of these life-saving drugsduring the follow-up period. As documented earlier, cardiolo-gists in a teaching institution are more likely to prescribe es-tablished life-saving drugs than do primary care physicians.However, full-time primary care physicians at a university-affiliated teaching hospital continue to use these therapies at ahigher rate than do those outside academic medicine.Key words: aspirin, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor,beta-adrenergic blockers, calcium-channel blockers, lipid-lowering agents, myocardial infarctionIntroductionAspirin and beta-adrenergic blocking agents have beenshown to reduce mortality after acute myocardial infarction(AMI). These agents, therefore, are recommended by theAmerican College of Cardiology/American Heart Association(AACC/AHA) as a standard of care for patients with AMI.
Algorithm 489: the algorithm SELECT—for finding the ith smallest of n elements [M1]

SELECT will rearrange the values of array segment X[L: R] so that X[K] (for some given K; L ≤ K ≤ R) will contain the (K-L+1)-th smallest value, L ≤ I ≤ K will imply X[I] ≤ X[K], and K ≤ I ≤ R will imply X[I] ≥ X[K. While SELECT is thus functionally equivalent to Hoare's algorithm FIND [1], it is significantly faster on the average due to the effective use of sampling to determine the element T about which to partition X. The average time over 25 trials required by SELECT and FIND to determine the median of n elements was found experimentally to be: n 500 1000 5000 10000 SELECT 89 ms. 141 ms. 493 ms. 877 ms. FIND 104 ms. 197 ms. 1029 ms. 1964 ms. The arbitrary constants 600, .5, and .5 appearing in the algorithm minimize execution time on the particular machine used. SELECT has been shown to run in time asymptotically proportional to N + min (I, N-I), where N = L - R + 1 and I = K - L + 1. A lower bound on the running time within 9 percent of this value has also been proved [2]. Sites [3] has proved SELECT terminates.
Decreased incorporation of the photoaffinity probe 8N3-[γ-32P]-GTP into a 45KD protein in lung tumors

Summary Photoincorporation of 8N 3 -[γ- 32 P]-GTP into tissue and cell extracts was examined using gel electrophoresis and autoradiography. Decreased photoincorporation into a 45kD band was observed in extracts from mouse lung tumors as compared to normal mouse lung, and in extracts from lung tumor-derived cell lines when compared to isolated bronchiolar epithelial cells. Decreased 45kD photolabelling was also observed in extracts of S49 lymphoma cyc − cells (deficient in G s α, a 45kD GTP binding protein of receptor-coupled adenylate cyclase) when compared to wild type S49 cells. This, and the observation that there was no cholera toxin-catalyzed ADP-ribosylation in the 45kD band of lung tumor extracts, suggests that the 45kD band contains G s α.
Functional forms of household expenditure patterns in the United States

Engel curve analyses of six major categories of expenditures are presented. Data for U.S. consumer units are from the 1989 Consumer Expenditure Survey. Six different functional forms for each of the six expenditure categories were compared and the form with the best fit between permanent income, as derived from an instrumental variable approach, and expenditure was selected for each expenditure category. Regressions of each expenditure with permanent income and selected household characteristics are discussed.
Molecular mechanism of α-tocopheryl-phosphate transport across the cell membrane

{alpha}-Tocopheryl-phosphate ({alpha}-TP) is synthesized and hydrolyzed in animal cells and tissues where it modulates several functions. {alpha}-TP is more potent than {alpha}-T in inhibiting cell proliferation, down-regulating CD36 transcription, inhibiting atherosclerotic plaque formation. Administration of {alpha}-TP to cells or animals requires its transfer through membranes, via a transporter. We show here that {alpha}-TP is passing the plasma membrane via a system that is inhibited by glibenclamide and probenecid, inhibitors of a number of transporters. Glibenclamide and probenecid prevent dose-dependently {alpha}-TP inhibition of cell proliferation. The two inhibitors act on ATP binding cassette (ABC) and organic anion transporters (OAT). Since ABC transporters function to export solutes and {alpha}-TP is transported into cells, it may be concluded that {alpha}-TP transport may occur via an OAT family member. Due to the protection by glibenclamide and probenecid on the {alpha}-TP induced cell growth inhibition it appears that {alpha}-TP acts after its uptake inside cells.
Allosteric regulation of platelet actomyosin

Abstract The kinetic properties of platelet actomyosin have been examined to understand the mode of hydrolysis of its substrate ATP. In the presence of divalent cations, ATP hydrolysis deviated from Michaelis-Menten kinetics in such a way as to indicate cooperative effects, with a sigmoidal velocity vs. substrate curve and a Hill slope of 2.4. In the absence of added divalent cations, linear Michaelis-Menten kinetics were obtained and the Hill slope reduced to 1.0. These results indicate an allosteric regulatory site on platelet actomyosin.
Social Class and Success Goals: An Examination of Relative and Absolute Aspirations*

Aspirations may be measured in absolute terms, by asking individuals how much of a given goal they desire, or in relative terms, by asking individuals how much they desire a given goal relative to ...
Tableaus for many-valued modal logic

We continue a series of papers on a family of many-valued modal logics, a family whose Kripke semantics involves many-valued accessibility relations. Earlier papers in the series presented a motivation in terms of a multiple-expert semantics. They also proved completeness of sequent calculus formulations for the logics, formulations using a cut rule in an essential way. In this paper a novel cut-free tableau formulation is presented, and its completeness is proved.
Carborane-Based Pincers: Synthesis and Structure of SeBSe and SBS Pd(II) Complexes

We report the synthesis of several unique, boron-rich pincer complexes derived from m-carborane. The SeBSe and SBS pincer ligands can be synthesized via two independent synthetic routes and are metalated with Pd(II). These structures represent unique coordinating motifs, each with a Pd−B(2) bond chelated by two thio- or selenoether ligands. This class of structures serves as the first example of boron−metal pincer complexes and possesses several interesting electronic properties imposed by the m-carborane cage.
The Role of Macromolecular Components in Anti-γ, α, μ, κ, λ, C3 and C4 Antiglobulin Sera*

Summary. Studies are described of the early and late responses of rabbits immunized with human IgG protein. Early macroglobulins (19S) antiglobulin antibody is compared with 7S antibody in tests against red cells strongly and weakly coated by IgG anti-Rh(D) antibody. The 19S antibody, when reacted on a glass plate, is slower to produce maximum agglutination than 7S antibody, is enhanced by 4% human serum albumin, and is of at least equal sensitivity in detecting very weakly sensitized erythrocytes. The 19S antibody shows no loss of potency during 1 yr storage at - 20°C, but is unstable beyond 6 mth storage at 4°C. The 19S antibody is non-precipitating against its specific antigen, which complicates assessment of its specificity. It is shown that admixture of 19S with 7S antiglobulins alters the manifestation of the prozone characteristic of the 7S antibody alone. Macroglobulin antiglobulin reagents raised against human γ, α, μ, K, λ, C3 and C4 antigens are compared with 7S reagents of similar specificities in tests against coated cells from 14 patients with acquired autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AAHA), three patients receiving methyldopa, and against normal cells sensitized with anti-D, anti-Fya, anti-Kell, anti-Lea and anti-Jka isoantibodies. The results put macroglobulin antiglobulin reagents in perspective in relation to the broad field of antiglobulin testing.
Linkage and expression of the Eg locus controlling inclusion of beta-glucuronidase into microsomes.

In the mouse, one structural gene codes for the amino acid sequence of the β-glucuronidase found in both lysosomes and microsomes. The function of a second, independently segregating locus, Eg, is required for the inclusion of β-glucuronidase into microsomes. In microsomes, the enzyme, which contains four subunits, is found in a macromolecular complex with up to four additional protein chains; the attachment of these chains is defective in the Eg0 mutant lacking microsomal glucuronidase. The Eg gene has now been linked with Es-1 (1.1±0.3% recombination) on chromosome 8. The β-glucuronidase structural gene Gus is on chromosome 5. Thus the gene responsible for processing the polypeptide chain is not genetically linked to the gene directing the synthesisof the enzyme itself.
Linear system identification of a cold flow circulating fluidized bed

Knowledge of the solids circulation rate (SCR) is essential to the control and improved performance of a circulating fluidized bed system. In the present work, the noise model is derived using the prediction error method considering process and measurement noises acting on the cold flow circulating fluidized bed (CFCFB) with a cork particulate material. The outputs of the initial model are the total pressure drop across the riser, the pressure drop across the crossover, the pressure drop across the primary cyclone, the total pressure drop across the stand-pipe, the pressure drop across the loop seal, and the SCR. The stochastic estimate of SCR is determined from the noise model using the stochastic pressure drop estimates. The deterministic estimate is obtained through the inputs taken as move air flow, riser aeration, and loop seal fluidization air that are all independent variables of the given setup and under the control of the user. The theory has been developed to convert a complete blackbox model to a grey box model through the output-to-state transformation such that both the models of the CFCFB consists of all these output variables as the states of the system, and only pressure drops across the system as the output measurements. Thus, the final models do not include any fictitious terms and they are defined only in terms of physical parameters of the given system. Both components of SCR are separately analysed. The combined SCR response of both the noise model and deterministic model is compared with the validation data set of this state variable in terms of modelfit, and the results are shown.
Connexin-36 gap junctions mediate electrical coupling between ventral tegmental area GABA neurons

Communication between neurons in the mammalian brain is primarily through chemical synapses; however, evidence is accumulating in support of electrical synaptic transmission between some neuronal types in the mature nervous system. The authors have recently demonstrated that the gap junction (GJ) blocker quinidine suppresses stimulus-induced and dopamine-evoked coupling of gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) of mature rats (Stobbs et al., 2004). The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of connexin-36 (Cx36) GJs in mediating electrical coupling between VTA GABA neurons in P50-80 rats in vivo and P25-50 rats in vitro. Single stimulation of the internal capsule (IC) evoked VTA GABA neuron spike couplets in mature rats when activated antidromically, and multiple poststimulus spike discharges (PSDs) when activated with brief high-frequency stimulation of the IC (ICPSDs). The Cx36 GJ blocker mefloquine (30 mg/kg) suppressed VTA GABA neuron ICPSDs in mature freely behaving rats. VTA GABA neurons recorded via whole-cell patch clamp in the midbrain slice preparation of P25-50 rats showed robust expression of Cx36 transcripts when tested with single-cell quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. In P50-80 rats, Cx36 protein immunoreactivity was evident in the VTA and surrounding structures. Dye-coupling between VTA neurons was observed following Neurobiotin labeling of VTA GABA neurons, as well as with the fluorochrome Alexa Fluor 488 using real-time video fluorescent microscopy. Thus, mature VTA GABA neurons appear to be connected by electrical synapses via Cx36 GJs, whose coupling is enhanced by corticotegmental input and by dopamine.
α-Chloroacetyl capping of peptides: an N-terminal capping strategy suitable for Edman sequencing

Abstract Use of an α-chloroacetyl group allows for the conditional N - terminal capping of peptides. This capping group is easily introduced and stable over a broad pH range, but can be converted to glycine by aqueous ammonia treatment in order to perform N - terminal Edman peptide sequencing.
The Dictyostelium Carmil Protein Links Capping Protein and the Arp2/3 Complex to Type I Myosins through Their Sh3 Domains

Fusion proteins containing the Src homology (SH)3 domains of Dictyostelium myosin IB (myoB) and IC (myoC) bind a 116-kD protein (p116), plus nine other proteins identified as the seven member Arp2/3 complex, and the α and β subunits of capping protein. Immunoprecipitation reactions indicate that myoB and myoC form a complex with p116, Arp2/3, and capping protein in vivo, that the myosins bind to p116 through their SH3 domains, and that capping protein and the Arp2/3 complex in turn bind to p116. Cloning of p116 reveals a protein dominated by leucine-rich repeats and proline-rich sequences, and indicates that it is a homologue of Acan 125. Studies using p116 fusion proteins confirm the location of the myosin I SH3 domain binding site, implicate NH2-terminal sequences in binding capping protein, and show that a region containing a short sequence found in several G-actin binding proteins, as well as an acidic stretch, can activate Arp2/3-dependent actin nucleation. p116 localizes along with the Arp2/3 complex, myoB, and myoC in dynamic actin-rich cellular extensions, including the leading edge of cells undergoing chemotactic migration, and dorsal, cup-like, macropinocytic extensions. Cells lacking p116 exhibit a striking defect in the formation of these macropinocytic structures, a concomitant reduction in the rate of fluid phase pinocytosis, a significant decrease in the efficiency of chemotactic aggregation, and a decrease in cellular F-actin content. These results identify a complex that links key players in the nucleation and termination of actin filament assembly with a ubiquitous barbed end–directed motor, indicate that the protein responsible for the formation of this complex is physiologically important, and suggest that previously reported myosin I mutant phenotypes in Dictyostelium may be due, at least in part, to defects in the assembly state of actin. We propose that p116 and Acan 125, along with homologues identified in Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila, mouse, and man, be named CARMIL proteins, for capping protein, Arp2/3, and myosin I linker.
High-Brightness Hard X-ray Scanning Nano-Probes at NSLS II

There is high demand for materials characterization on the nanometer length scale using hard X-ray techniques at third-generation X-ray synchrotron sources. For this reason, there are intense efforts underway for improving the quality and design of the X-ray optics that deliver these nano-focused X-ray beams. The proposed NSLS-II ultra-low emittance 3 GeV electron storage ring will provide the necessary brightness to deliver 10 nm spatial-resolution to a variety of dedicated nanoprobe beamlines at this facility. In this paper, we explore how this resolution can be attained using several types of X-ray optics, and also how their performance would compare at the present NSLS second-generation X-ray source.
Efficient delivery of lentiviral vectors into resting human CD4 T cells

Resting human CD4 T cells are highly resistant to transfection or infection with lentiviral vectors derived from the human immunodeficiency virus. We now describe a flexible and efficient approach involving virus-like particles containing simian immunodeficiency virus lentiviral gene product protein X and pseudotyping with CXCR4-tropic HIV Env. This method permits effective genetic manipulation of these cells while preserving their naturally quiescent state. This technology can also be extended to primary lymphoid cultures where authentic cellular composition and functional relationships are preserved.
Towards analysis-driven scientific software architecture: The case for abstract data type calculus

This article approaches scientific software architecture from three analytical paths. Each path examines discrete time advancement of multiphysics phenomena governed by coupled differential equations. The new object-oriented Fortran 2003 constructs provide a formal syntax for an abstract data type (ADT) calculus. The first analysis uses traditional object-oriented software design metrics to demonstrate the high cohesion and low coupling associated with the calculus. A second analysis from the viewpoint of computational complexity theory demonstrates that a more representative bug search strategy than that considered by Rouson et al. (ACM Trans. Math. Soft. 34(1) (2008)) reduces the number of lines searched in a code with λ total lines from O(λ 2) to O(λ log 2 λ), which in turn becomes nearly independent of the overall code size in the context of ADT calculus. The third analysis derives from information theory an argument that ADT calculus simplifies developer communications in part by minimizing the growth in interface information content as developers add new physics to a multiphysics package.
Corrections of overlapping spheres in the self-consistent field Xα scattered-wave method

Abstract Modification of the self-consistent-field Xα scattered-wave (SCF-X)α-SW) method with overlapping spheres is proposed. Proper corrections (i) for the shape and volume of the intersphere region, and (ii) for the Coulomb potential in the overlapping regions for ABy-type molecules were derived. The SCF-Xα-SW method with non-overlapping spheres (MT method), with overlapping spheres but using the formulation of the MT method (OS method), and with overlapping spheres using our corrections (COS method) were applied to a study of the ground states of H2O. Effects on the electronic-charge distribution, total Xα energy, and the orbital energies due to the inclusion of the overlapping spheres with and without the proper corrections were studied. Corrections of overlapping spheres are found to be significant when the percentage overlap is ca. 1.9%. Computation times for the three methods are comparable. The criteria for choosing the radii of the atomic spheres were also investigated.
The discovery and classification of new laboratory frame cross correlation functions

Abstract The discovery is reported of numerous new cross correlation functions in the laboratory frame of reference (x.y.z) which are invariant by parity and reflection symmetry operations. These are obtained systematically by repeated differentiation of coordinates and momenta in a rotating, or dynamically non-inertial frame of reference. In principle, these cross correlation functions can all be used to analyze the nature of molecular dynamics in a computer simulation, and therefore greatly add to the methods already available for dynamical correlation.
An Historical and Applied Aerodynamic Study of the Wright Brothers' Wind Tunnel Test Program and Application to Successful Manned Flight

A replica wind tunnel was built and used to test the flow quality through the Wright Brothers’ wind tunnel. The research determined the effect flow quality and experimental method had on the Brothers’ results, and whether those results were useful in a quantitative sense. Particle image velocimetry revealed boundary layers extending 2.5” (63.5 mm) from each wall, and velocity gradients as large as 20% along the wind tunnel model span resulting in an asymmetric lift distribution. Similarly, the balance generated asymmetric wingtip vortices contributing to asymmetric downwash along the span of the model. Direct force measurements of a replica of the Wrights #12 airfoil showed their lift measurements were at least 7% and as much as 15% too low, and numerical analysis revealed wind tunnel predictions for lift, drag, and efficiency were not applicable to full scale design due to Reynolds number scaling effects.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Functional results after postirradiation rectal reconstruction.

The functional results obtained in 26 patients operated on for postirradiation rectovaginal fistula, stricture, or combination of fistula and stricture are reported in detail. Emphasis is placed on the degree of continence obtained. The operation consists of use of proximal nonirradiated colon to repair the damaged area without doing a rectal resection. It has been found that nonirradiated colon with a good blood supply can be expected to heal to irradiated colon or rectum and complete resection of the entire irradiated area is not necessary. The results of this operation have been excellent in 11, satisfactory in 8, and poor in 2; the procedure failed in 2 patients. One patient died as a consequence of the operation and 2 patients died of other causes before having closure of a temporary colostomy. It was found that the presence of radiation damage to the small intestine could influence the quality of the end result.
Comparison of the metabolic activities of four wild-type Clostridium perfringens strains with their gatifloxacin-selected resistant mutants

The production of short-chain fatty acids, reductive enzymes, and hydrolytic enzymes by four gatifloxacin-selected, fluoroquinolone-resistant, mutant strains of C. perfringens, with stable mutations either in DNA gyrase or in both DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, was compared with that produced by the wild-type parent strains to investigate the effect of mutations associated with the selection of gatifloxacin resistance on bacterial metabolic activities. The mutants differed from their respective wild-type parent strains in the enzymatic activities of azoreductase, nitroreductase, and β-glucosidase and in the ratio of butyric acid to acetic acid production. Microarray analysis of one wild type and the corresponding mutant revealed different levels of mRNA expression for the enzymes involved in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) synthesis and for β-glucosidase and oxidoreductases. In addition to mutations in the target genes, selection of resistance to gatifloxacin resulted in strain-specific physiological changes in the resistant mutants of C. perfringens that affected their metabolic activities.
Improved theory of the muonium hyperfine structure.

Terms contributing to the hyperfine structure of the muonium ground state at the level of few tenths of kHz have been evaluated. The [alpha][sup 3]([ital Z][alpha]) radiative correction has been calculated numerically to the precision of 0.02 kHz. Leading ln([ital Z][alpha]) terms of order [alpha][sup 4[minus][ital n]]([ital Z][alpha])[sup [ital n]], [ital n]=1, 2, 3, and some relativistic corrections have been evaluated analytically. The theoretical uncertainty is now reduced to 0.17 kHz. At present, however, it is not possible to test QED to this precision because of the 1.34 kHz uncertainty due to the muon mass.
Early regulatory actions by the SEC: An institutional theory perspective on the dramaturgy of political exchanges

Abstract It has been urged that research be directed at understanding the development of political institutions, particularly administrative institutions, in the American governance structure, as well as their role in providing order and change in American politics. Toward this end, the purpose of this paper is to examine the development of one specific administrative institution, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the effect of its regulatory actions in establishing the SEC's own legitimacy with Congress, the press and regulatees, particularly in terms of the McKesson and Robbins enforcement action. Our archival analysis, using primary and secondary material, probes the SEC's efforts at developing a dramaturgy of exchange relations with its external constituents in terms of its: 1. (a) conformity to sanctioned language forms; 2. (b) use of both the acquiescence and compromise strategies in dealing with external constituents and in balancing needs for the appearance of regulation with de facto inaction in regulating audit practice; 3. (c) development and application of a ritualistic pattern of interacting with regulatees. We conclude that in order to understand the SEC as a political institution, it is necessary to incorporate an appreciation of its self-interested behavior in terms of the form, content and rhetoric of its regulatory actions. A critical facet of early SEC efforts and success did not concern whether it did good in terms of applying effective regulations, or bad in terms of preserving the status quo in power relations among the business and political communities. The ability of the SEC to legitimate its existence and institutionalize its role in the financial markets and in the financial reporting and auditing communities proved more essential.
Research ethics and computer science: an unconsummated marriage

The ethical conduct of research is a cornerstone of modern scientific research. Computer science and the discipline's technological artifacts touch nearly every aspect of modern life, and computer scientists must conduct and report their research in an ethical manner. This paper examines a small selection of potential ethical dilemmas researchers in this discipline face, and discusses how ethical concerns may be addressed in these situations. The paper concludes with an overview of other areas of ethical concern and a look to the future development of a code for ethical computer science research
Prediction of peak flow values followed by feedback improves perception of lung function and adherence to inhaled corticosteroids in children with asthma

Background Failure to detect respiratory compromise can lead to emergency healthcare use and fatal asthma attacks. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of predicting peak expiratory flow (PEF) and receiving feedback on perception of pulmonary function and adherence to inhaled corticosteroids (ICS). Methods The sample consisted of 192 ethnic minority, inner-city children (100 Puerto Rican, 54 African-American, 38 Afro-Caribbean) with asthma and their primary caregivers recruited from outpatient clinics in Bronx, New York. Children9s PEF predictions were entered into an electronic spirometer and compared with actual PEF across 6 weeks. Children in one study were blinded to PEF (n=88; no feedback) and children in a separate study were able to see PEF (n=104; feedback) after predictions were locked in. Dosers were attached to asthma medications to monitor use. Results Children in the feedback condition displayed greater accuracy (p Conclusions Feedback on PEF predictions for ethnic minority, inner-city children may decrease under-perception of respiratory compromise and increase adherence to controller medications. Children and their families may shift their attention to asthma perception and management as a result of this intervention.
Labeling Substrate Proteins of Poly(ADP-ribose) Polymerases with Clickable NAD Analog.

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs) play important roles in various biological processes, including DNA repair, transcriptional regulation, mitosis, and RNA processing. PARP inhibitors are in clinical trials for treating human cancers. Understanding the biological function of PARPs will be important to fully realize the therapeutic potential of PARP inhibitors. We have developed a clickable analog of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) that can be used for in-gel visualization, affinity purification, and identification of substrate proteins of PARPs. The protocols in this article describe a general procedure to label substrate proteins of PARPs using the clickable NAD analog. Curr. Protoc. Chem. Biol. 4:19-34 © 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Keywords: clickable NAD analog; poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase; poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation; click chemistry
Body Mass Index-Mortality Paradox in Hemodialysis: Can It Be Explained by Blood Pressure?

Unlike the general population, among hemodialysis patients body mass index (BMI) is related to blood pressure (BP) and mortality inversely. To explore the reasons for this risk-factor paradox, the cross-sectional association of obesity with the following factors was examined: the prevalence of hypertension, its control, and echocardiographic left ventricular mass index (LVMI). Longitudinal follow-up explored the relationship of BMI with all-cause mortality. Furthermore, it explored whether poorer survival in leaner individuals was related to either high BP or greater LVMI. Among 368 hemodialysis patients, both the prevalence of hypertension and its poor control were inversely related to BMI. BMI was also inversely associated with evidence of excess extracellular fluid volume, but adjustment for this variable did not completely remove the inverse relationship between BP and BMI. Over 1122 patient-years of cumulative follow-up (median: 2.7 years), 119 patients (32%) died. In the first 2 years of follow-up, the mortality hazard for the lowest BMI group was increased; thereafter, the survival curves were similar. Adjusting for several risk factors including BP and LVMI did not remove the inverse relationship of BMI with mortality. In conclusion, leaner patients on dialysis have a higher prevalence of hypertension, poorer control of hypertension, more LVMI, and greater evidence of extracellular fluid volume excess. However, volume explains the greater prevalence or poorer control of hypertension only partially. Leaner patients have an accelerated mortality rate in the first 2 years; this is not completely explained by BP, LVMI, or other cardiovascular or dialysis-specific risk factors.
Enhancing exposure therapy for anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Translating findings from basic science, several compounds have been identified that may enhance therapeutic outcomes and/or expedite treatment gains when administered alongside exposure-based treatments. Four of these compounds (referred to as cognitive enhancers) have been evaluated in the context of randomized controlled trials for anxiety disorders (e.g., specific phobias, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder), obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. These cognitive enhancers include d-cycloserine, yohimbine hydrochloride, glucocorticoids and cortisol and brain-derived neurotrophic factor. There is consistent evidence that cognitive enhancers can enhance therapeutic outcomes and/or expedite treatment gains across anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Emerging evidence has highlighted the importance of within-session fear habituation and between-session fear learning, which can either enhance fear extinction or reconsolidate of...
The impact of the carvedilol therapy on the chronic heart failure in children. Does it depend on the morphological deference of systemic ventricle

Background: There have been a few reports about the use of carvedilol in children with congenital heart disease (CHD) to treat chronic heart failure. Purpose: To examine the effectiveness of carvedilol for children with chronic heart failure including congenital heart disease.[Subjects]32 patients admitted for heart failure were initiated carvedilol from January 1999 to December 2012. They consisted of 16 males and 16 females, with ages ranging from 1.8 years to 21.6 years (mediam age:5.3±6.0 years). Fourteen patients had congenital heart disease (hypoplastic left heart syndrome in 7 and other CHDs in 7). Heart failure occurred due to myocardial infarction in 6, cardiomyopathy in 7 and myocarditis in 5. The mean age when they were initiated carvedilol administration was 1.1±3.7 years (range:1 months to 13 years).The mean follow-up period was 3.3±3.6 years (range:1.1 years to 13.5 years). Methods: To evaluate the efficacy of carvedilol therapy quantitatively, we use these parameters: cardiothoracic ratio (CTR), b-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), fractional area change (FAC), Tei index,of systolic ventricle, and the early diastolic velocity at the mitral annulus (e'). We devided the patients into two groups. In group A, The patients have systemic right ventricule, while in group B, the patients have systemic left ventricle. We compared the parameters between two groups before initiation of carvedilol and at the end of the flollow-up period. Moreover, we compared the difference of the change of these parameters in each group.[Results]In both groups,CTR,BNP and Tei index were decreased significantly (CTR:A 55±5% vs. 50±5%,p<0.01, B 59±6% vs. 51±6%,p<0.001; mean BNP:A 251±335pg/ml vs. 26±24pg/ml p<0.01,B 286±781pg/ml vs. 26±153pg/ml p<0.01, Tei:A 0.65±0.13 vs. 0.44±0.11 p<0.01,B 0.59±0.15 vs. 0.31±0.10 p<0.001). FAC is also improved significantly in both groups (A 0.27±0.07 vs. 0.34±0.05, p<0.01,B 0.21±0.08 vs. 0.36±0.07, p<0.001). But e' is not changed significantly during this period (A 6.0±4.2cm/s vs. 7.2±2.3cm/s, B 5.9±2.9cm/s vs. 11.0±3.9cm/s). Then, there was no significant difference in the change of each parameters between two groups. Conclusions: Carvedilol therapy for chronic heart failure in children is effective in the patients with CHD. The efficacy does not depend on the morphological difference of the systemic ventricule, "right or left"
Brain Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography in Fetal Alcohol Syndrome A Case Report and Study Implications

The indications of brain single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) in fetal alcohol syndrome are not clearly defined, even though the condition is recognized as one of the most common causes of mental retardation. This article reports a case of a 9-year-old adopted girl with developmental delay, mildly dysmorphic facial features, and behavioral and cognitive abnormalities. Extensive investigations including genetic studies and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed no abnormalities, and a diagnosis of fetal alcohol syndrome was considered since official diagnostic criteria were met. A brain SPECT was requested and showed severely decreased tracer activity in the thalami, basal ganglia, and temporal lobes on both sides, the overall findings being consistent with the established diagnosis of fetal alcohol syndrome. With increasing availability of functional brain imaging, the study indications and possible ethical implications in suspected prenatal alcohol exposure or even before adoption ...
Direct reservoir parameter estimation using joint inversion of marine seismic AVA and CSEM data

A new joint inversion algorithm to directly estimate reservoir parameters is described. This algorithm combines seismic amplitude versus angle (AVA) and marine controlled source electromagnetic (CSEM) data. The rock-properties model needed to link the geophysical parameters to the reservoir parameters is described. Errors in the rock-properties model parameters, measured in percent, introduce errors of comparable size in the joint inversion reservoir parameter estimates. Tests of the concept on synthetic one-dimensional models demonstrate improved fluid saturation and porosity estimates for joint AVA-CSEM data inversion (compared to AVA or CSEM inversion alone). Comparing inversions of AVA, CSEM, and joint AVA-CSEM data over the North Sea Troll field, at a location with well control, shows that the joint inversion produces estimated gas saturation, oil saturation and porosity that is closest (as measured by the RMS difference, L1 norm of the difference, and net over the interval) to the logged values whereas CSEM inversion provides the closest estimates of water saturation.
A New Approach to the Middle East Conflict: The Analytic Hierarchy Process

We present an alternative process to address the Israeli Palestinian conflict. It does so in two ways that are different from past efforts. The first is by formally structuring the conflict and the second is the manner in which discussions are conducted and conclusions drawn.
Resistant thrombocytopenia in an HIV and hepatitis C patient: treatment response with novel agent eltrombopag

HIV-associated thrombocytopenia is a dis- ease which can be recurrent to standard therapy which includes highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) therapy, steroids and immunoglobulin. We report a patient with HIV and hepatitis C who presented with resistant thrombocytopenia. Treatment with Eltrombopag – a thrombopoeitin receptor agonist showed initial good response with recurrence of thrombocytopenia. This novel agent could be considered as a treatment option prior to splenectomy and may be useful as a tempo- rizing measure.
Acoustic characteristics of white-nosed coati vocalizations: A test of motivation-structural rules

Vocalizations of white-nosed coatis (Nasua narica) emitted in nonaggressive and aggressive contexts were measured and compared to determine if these calls exhibited acoustic characteristics in accordance with motivation-structural (MS) rules. ‘‘Chirp’’ and ‘‘squawk’’ calls were compared spectrographically using 11 coatis from 3 zoos. Chirps were shortduration (68.6‐212.0 ms), high‐maximum frequency (16.2‐17.9 kHz), tonal calls with frequency modulations. Squawks were longer-duration (177.9‐546.5 ms), low‐maximum frequency (8.4‐13.2 kHz), wide-bandwidth calls with 6 resonances and little frequency modulation. Squawks differed from chirps in duration, maximum frequency, and change in frequency (P , 0.001). Chirps were emitted during nonaggressive behaviors, whereas squawks were emitted during agonistic encounters. Squawks conformed to MS rule predictions for aggressive calls, and chirps supported MS rule predictions for nonaggressive contexts, but some exceptional characteristics were noted in chirps. Many chirps (67.7%) concluded with a short-duration, broad-bandwidth sound with high energy in low frequencies, and may represent variations of a graded call.
The Experimental Tobacco Marketplace I: Substitutability as a Function of the Price of Conventional Cigarettes

Introduction Behavioral economic studies of nicotine product consumption have traditionally examined substitution between two products and rarely examined substitution with more products. Increasing numbers of tobacco products available for commercial sale leads to more possible cross-product interactions, indicating a need to examine substitution in more complex arrangements that closely mirror the tobacco marketplace. Methods The experimental tobacco marketplace (ETM) is an experimental online store that displays pictures, information, and prices for several tobacco products. Smokers were endowed with an account balance based on their weekly tobacco purchases. Participants then made potentially real purchases for seven (Experiment 1) or six (Experiment 2) tobacco/nicotine products under four price conditions for conventional cigarettes while prices for other products remained constant. Smokers returned 1 week later to report tobacco/nicotine use and return unused products for a refund. Results In Experiment 1 (n = 22), cigarette purchasing decreased as a function of price. Substitution was greatest for electronic cigarettes and cigarillos and significant for electronic cigarettes. Experiment 2 (n = 34) was a replication of Experiment 1, but with cigarillos unavailable in the ETM. In Experiment 2, cigarette purchases decreased as a function of price. Substitution was robust and significant for electronic cigarettes and Camel Snus. Conclusions The ETM is a novel, practical assay that mimics the real-world marketplace, and functions as a simple research tool for both researchers and participants. Across the two experiments the product mix in the ETM altered which products functioned as substitutes suggesting complex interactions between purchasing and product availability. Implications This article adds a novel method of collecting purchasing data that mimics real world purchasing to the existing literature. The ETM is a practical avenue by which to study both hypothetical and potentially real purchasing.
The unfulfilled promise of usability engineering

Usability practitioners have always shared at least one common goal---create the best possible product or tool with the time and resources provided. How to most effectively achieve that goal has been and will continue to be an essential question for us. Today there are a number of promising frameworks and effective heuristics. There is also a body of experience that we can draw on. This was less true 30 years ago when some of us started. In those days, many of us came from a background in academic research. While that background provided the foundation for much of the work that followed, it was critical to adapt that foundation to the context of hardware and software development and interface design. In adapting that foundation some assumptions and practices could be built upon and others needed to be abandoned. In this essay, I examine the history of a framework that drew from our background in research, but that we adapted in crucial ways. I'll argue that some of the promise of that framework was "lost in translation" as the field matured. Finally, I contend that some of those lost elements of that framework could serve us well in our work today. That framework is usability engineering.
Seasonal Population Trends of Hippelates Gnats (Diptera: Chloropidae) in Southern California

Eye gnat population activity was determined by means of bait traps in several areas of southern California. In all areas studied Hippelates collusor (Townsend), the most annoying eye gnat in California and the other Southwestern States, was the predominant species. Its populations were noticeable from March to November in the Coachella Valley, and it was prominent from late spring to early fall in both the coastal and the inland foothill areas. H. robertsoni Sabrosky was a late-spring, summer, or early-fall species, collected in appreciable numbers in the coastal and inland foothill areas but in very low numbers in the Coachella Valley. H. pusio Loew was collected in large numbers in the coastal foothill areas, but was scarce in the inland foothills and the Coachella Valley. Both pusio and robertsoni are prevalent in cooler climates, but almost absent from the hot desert regions of California. H. dorsalis Loew is a rare species but very annoying to people wherever it is present. Although it coexists with H. collusor and other Hippelates in the Coachella Valley and other areas of California, its populations have never increased to high levels. Biological factors and specific ecological requisites may be responsible for the balance of eye gnat species as we know it at present.
HEAT STABILITY OF AVIDIN AND AVIDIN-BIOTIN COMPLEX AND INFLUENCE OF IONIC STRENGTH ON AFFINITY OF AVIDIN FOR BIOTIN

SummaryAn assay method involving the use of radioactive biotin and Sephadex chromatography was used to determine avidin and/or the avidin-biotin complex. It was demonstrated that avidin is relatively heat labile while the avidin-biotin complex is relatively heat stable. It was found that the affinity of avidin for biotin, essentially zero in aqueous solution, is a direct function of the ionic strength of the medium in which avidin and biotin react.
Screening of bacteria as sample matrix for quality control of the aquatic products

Objective To understand the distribution of bacteria contamination in aquatic products and select the bacteria with high abundance as the interference to build the sample matrix for quality control for aquatic products. Methods Three types of samples(sea water,pond water,and 4 types of fish in the market) were subjected to Salmonella, Shigella,Listeria Monocytogenes,enteropathogenic Escherichia Coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Vibrio isolation and identification.Statistical analysis was conducted to compare the proportion of these bacteria in different samples. Quality control products were then prepared. Results We detected a pretty high rate(85.36%; 70 / 82) of various bacteria contamination in water and seafood. The bacteria identified included enteropathogenic Escherichia Coli, Staphylococcus aureus and other15 genus of pathogenic Vibrio. Based on these results and the unique characteristic of different bacteria, interference bacteria could be chosen from Vibrio alginolyticus, Vibrio mimicus, Staphylococcus aureus, Aeromonas sobria, Shiga like Aeromonas and Pseudomonas fluorescens. Conclusion The quality control products prepared could mimic the real situation of pathogenic bacteria in food.
P17.22 Providers’ perceptions of the causes of loss to follow-up of hiv-infected children in botswana

Introduction Healthcare providers (nurses, physicians, and social workers), by virtue of their experiences in interacting with HIV-infected children and their caregivers, are an important source of information on the causes of loss to follow-up (LTFU). We explored perceptions of healthcare providers regarding factors that lead to paediatric HIV-infected patients becoming lost to follow-up from care and treatment. Methods The study was conducted at a large paediatric HIV clinic in Gaborone, Botswana and involved conducting in-depth interviews with clinical staff (n = 10). The interviews targeted information about the magnitude of LTFU problems and possible solutions as perceived by the healthcare providers. Results Respondents perceived factors of LTFU to include issues of HIV-related stigma, caregiver’s religious beliefs of being healed, teenage-child rebellion, and concerns about disclosure of their HIV status to others, were characteristic of the patients LTFU. The results also revealed that mental health issues such as depression might not be adequately addressed in HIV clinic settings, perceived as a key underlying factor of LTFU. Conclusion Our study underscores the psychosocial nature of the issues of LTFU and the need to develop a more holistic approach to treating HIV-infected children. Disclosure of interest statement Funding for this study was made possible through Fogarty International Centre of the National Institutes of Health, (M. W. Kline – Principal Investigator) under grant number D43 TW01036.