cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fooling the Harlequin Bug (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) Using Synthetic Volatiles to Alter Host Plant Choice

Harlequin bug, Murgantia histrionica (Hahn) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is a widespread pest that feeds on a variety of brassicaceous crops and other plants. To understand olfactory cues that mediate host-finding, and their possible utility in pest management, we deployed aggregation pheromone (mixed murgantiols = 10,11-epoxy-1-bisabolen-3-ols) and/or isothiocyanate (ITC) host plant volatiles with potted host plants and nonhost soybean, in field choice bioassays. Adults of both sexes were strongly attracted (10-31×) to collard host plants baited with pheromone lures, compared with unbaited collards, as were nymphs. Collard plants baited with lures containing allyl and/or benzyl-ITC showed a 1.3× and 1.9× increase in attractiveness, respectively, neither differing by life-stage nor sex; multiple lures showed additive attraction. Nonhost soybean, baited with pheromone lure, was 4.6-7.5× more attractive to adults than unbaited collard; conversely, baited collard was 124× more attractive than unbaited soybean. The stark difference in observed effect of pheromone lure between unpoisoned plants, and those poisoned with imidacloprid, indicated that attraction was underestimated by circa-daily counts of unpoisoned plants, presumably because if not poisoned, bugs rapidly abandoned the baited nonhost soybean plant. Results indicate that harlequin bugs can be misled to encounter and feed on nonhosts by their aggregation pheromone, but additional means may be needed to retain them. Attraction to hosts is increased both by the aggregation pheromone, and at least two host plant volatiles, allyl and benzyl-ITC. These results contribute to our knowledge of host finding in harlequin bug, and to possible trapping and trap cropping schemes for pest management.
Factors Associated With Hypertension Control in US Adults Using 2017 ACC/AHA Guidelines: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2016.

BACKGROUND Factors and trends associated with hypertension control (BP < 130/80 mm Hg) and mean blood pressure (BP) among hypertensive adults (BP ≥1 30/80 mm Hg or medicated for hypertension). METHOD Data on 22,911 hypertensive US adults from the 1999-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. RESULTS For men, hypertension control prevalence increased from 8.6% in 1999-2000 to 16.2% in 2003-2004 (P < 0.001), and continued the increasing trend afterwards to 23.2% in 2011-2012 (P < 0.001) and then plateaued. For women, hypertension control prevalence increased from 1999-2000 to 2009-2010 (10.8-26.3%, P < 0.001) and then plateaued. For men with hypertension, systolic BP decreased from 1999-2000 to 2011-2012 (135.7-132.8 mm Hg, P < 0.001) and then increased to 135.3 mm Hg in 2015-2016 (P < 0.001). For women with hypertension, systolic BP decreased from 1999-2000 to 2009-2010 (139.7-131.9 mm Hg; P < 0.001) and then increased to 134.4 mm Hg in 2015-2016 (P = 0.003). Diastolic BP decreased from 1999-2000 to 2015-2016 (men: 79.1-75.5 mm Hg and women: 76.4-73.7 mm Hg, P < 0.001 for both). In 2011-2016, hypertension control was 22.0% for men and 25.2% for women. The adjusted prevalence ratio (PR) of hypertension control were lower for non-Hispanic black men and women (PR = 0.72, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.61-0.86; PR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.70-0.99, respectively; non-Hispanic white (NHW) as reference), Hispanic and non-Hispanic Asian men (PR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.54-0.92; PR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.39-0.86; respectively; NHW as reference). CONCLUSION Hypertension control significantly increased from 1999-2000 to 2011-2012 (men) and 2009-2010 (women) and then plateaued. About a quarter of US adults with hypertension were controlled in 2011-2016.
Mass migration of stroke populations: For better or worse, away they go.

“Need is the stimulus to concept, concept to action. A half-million people moving over the country; a million more restive, ready to move.”—John Steinbeck, The Grapes of Wrath
Extending the Parent-Delivered Early Start Denver Model to Young Children with Fragile X Syndrome.

This is the first study to evaluate an autism intervention model, the parent-delivered Early Start Denver Model (P-ESDM), for young children with fragile X syndrome (FXS), a known genetic disorder associated with autism spectrum disorder. Four parent–child dyads participated in a low-intensity, parent coaching model of the P-ESDM to evaluate initial efficacy and acceptability. Parents improved in P-ESDM fidelity, implemented intervention goals to increase child learning, and found the experience moderately to highly acceptable. Visual examination and Baseline Corrected Tau effect sizes revealed mixed results across child measures. Findings suggest a potential therapeutic opportunity in need of larger, well-controlled studies of P-ESDM and other interventions for families of young children with FXS who face limited empirically-supported intervention options.
A Cloud-Based Multiagent System Platform for Residential Microgrids Towards Smart Grid Community

This paper proposes a cloud-based multiagent system (MAS) platform for a residential microgrid (RMG) towards smart grid community. The proposed MAS consists of smart home agents (SHAs) and a microgrid agent (MA), aiming to alleviate the peak load of the RMG and to minimize the electricity costs of smart homes. These are achieved by using agent utility functions and the best operating time algorithm (BOT) in the MAS. Moreover, Internet-of- Things (IoT) devices are used for aggregating home power data and communicating between smart home and the multiagent system in cloud computing server via internet. The proposed MAS and smart home models are implemented in Google cloud and Raspberry pi boards, respectively and validated by cyber-physical simulation testbed for a RMG with five smart homes.
Linking Coronary Microvascular and Cardiac Diastolic Dysfunction in Diabetes: Are Women More Vulnerable?

Accumulating evidence has demonstrated a clear association of coronary microvascular dysfunction with poor cardiac outcomes (1–4). For example, in patients with normal myocardial perfusion imaging, coronary microvascular dysfunction is a powerful predictor of major adverse cardiac events and improves risk discrimination in clinical risk models (1). Furthermore, these studies suggest that coronary microvascular dysfunction may underlie the increased cardiac risk associated with some comorbid conditions. Particularly, in patients with diabetes, the presence of coronary microvascular dysfunction effectively accounted for all of the increased cardiac mortality compared with patients with diabetes with no coronary microvascular dysfunction (5). Whether sex differences exist with regard to coronary dysfunction and outcomes in patients with diabetes has not been addressed; however, it is critically needed given the impact of diabetes to abrogate the cardiovascular protection afforded by female sex hormones (6). Coronary microvascular dysfunction is defined clinically as a coronary flow reserve (CFR) (ratio of resting to maximal hyperemic coronary blood flow) <2 in the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) (4). Previous work has revealed important sex-specific relationships between coronary dysfunction and ultimate outcomes in broad patient populations referred for angiography (1,3). Namely, prospective examination revealed that symptomatic intermediate-to-high–risk women, but not men, with impaired CFR experience increased cardiovascular events (3). This has been attributed largely to the underlying cause of impaired CFR in women …
A Neurologist's Perspective on Thymectomy for Myasthenia Gravis: Current Perspective and Future Trials.

The first randomized blinded study of thymectomy in nonthymomatous myasthenia gravis was designed to answer 3 questions: does the combination of prednisone and removal of the thymus gland via extended transsternal thymectomy after 3 years compared with an identical dosing protocol of prednisone alone (1) lead to better disease status for generalized MG patients with antiacetylcholine receptor antibodies, (2) reduce their prednisone requirements, and/or (3) reduce the side-effect burden from medications used to treat the disease? The study demonstrated that thymectomy confers these benefits for patients and sets the stage for inquiries into the benefits of less-invasive approaches to thymic resection.
High-Sensitivity Detection of Nanometer 1H-19F Distances for Protein Structure Determination by 1H-Detected Fast MAS NMR.

Protein structure determination by solid-state NMR requires the measurement of many interatomic distances through dipole–dipole couplings. To obtain multiple long-range distance restraints rapidly and with high sensitivity, here we demonstrate a new 1H-detected fast magic-angle-spinning NMR technique that yields many long distances in a two-dimensional (2D)-resolved fashion. The distances are measured up to ∼15 A, with an accuracy of better than 10%, between 1H and 19F, two nuclear spins that have the highest gyromagnetic ratios. Exogenous fluorines are sparsely introduced into the aromatic residues of the protein, which is perdeuterated and back-exchanged to give amide protons. This 1H–19F distance experiment, termed 2D heteronuclear single-quantum coherence rotational-echo double-resonance (HSQC-REDOR), is demonstrated on the singly fluorinated model protein, GB1. We extracted 33 distances between 5-19F-Trp43 and backbone amide protons, using 2D spectral series that were measured in less than 3 days. Co...
Regulation of voltage-gated calcium channels by the ER calcium sensor STIM1

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ sensor STIM1, best-known for its essential role in triggering influx of extracellular Ca2+ via Ca2+-release-activated channels when ER stores become depleted, unexpectedly also regulates Ca2+ entry through voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. In response to a drop in ER luminal Ca2+ level, this ER membrane-spanning sensor can contact voltage-gated Ca2+ channels in the plasma membrane and thereby inhibit Ca2+ influx through them. This previously unappreciated, interaction between ER Ca2+ level and magnitude of Ca2+ influx via voltage-gated Ca2+ channels may turn out to powerfully impact Ca2+ signaling in excitable cells, including neurotransmitter release, structural and functional postsynaptic plasticity, and transcription factor translocation.
Renin-Angiotensin System Blockade after Acute Kidney Injury: The Plot Thickens.

Renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blockade has been associated with improved outcomes in numerous disease states, including reduced mortality in congestive heart failure (CHF), hypertension, and diabetes ([1][1],[2][2]). RAS blockade remains central to the management of both cardiovascular disease and
How lacking control drives fluency effects in evaluative judgment

Abstract Everyday life is replete with situations that can undermine the perception of personal control. In the current research, the author demonstrates that these experiences can have a pronounced impact on judgment and decision making by increasing evaluative preferences for fluent stimuli. The author argues this occurs because fluent stimuli promote a sense of structure that helps compensate for low control. Consistent with a compensatory process, the data further show that this effect is attenuated when alternative compensatory control strategies are readily available. Six studies document this effect and its implications for how individuals evaluate an organization’s offerings, brand name, tagline, and stock—including two studies examining fluency effects in stock market valuations. Taken together, these findings provide convergent evidence in support of the author's theorizing that fluent stimuli represent a novel means by which individuals attempt to compensate for low control.
Progress in low-temperature solid oxide fuel cells with hydrocarbon fuels

Abstract Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are important electric generators due to their high energy efficiencies and fuel flexibilities. However, the high operation temperature (>800 °C) results in high system cost/complexity and poor long-term durability. Recently, decreasing the operating temperature of SOFCs to the low-temperature range (≤650 °C) has attracted intensive attention, especially for the direct utilization of hydrocarbons as fuels. This review summarizes the latest progress in hydrocarbon fueled SOFCs working at ≤ 650 °C, mainly focusing on the challenges and strategies associated with electrolytes, anodes, and cathodes. It highlights the requirement for highly active and carbon/sulfur resistant anode and high ionic conductive electrolytes to gain a superior performance at a lower temperature.
Do neutral protein positions really exist? A case study with allostery in human liver pyruvate kinase

Abstract In the goal of interpreting human exomes, when predictive programs assign functional importance to some positions, they implicitly assume the existence of non-important positions – those that accommodate many side chain chemistries without altering function (“neutral”). However, very few (if any) experimental studies have demonstrated the existence of neutral positions. We sought experimental evidence for neutral positions using human liver pyruvate kinase (hLPYK) as a model system. To that end, we used multiple evolutionary criteria to identify 20 possibly neutral positions. Nine positions were further tested with a total of 117 amino acid substitutions. Although “all” potential hLPYK functions can never be explored, we measured effects on 5 parameters associated with substrate/ligand affinities and allosteric coupling. At each position, the aggregate outcomes of multiple variants were used to quantify “neutrality” scores. Three of the nine positions showed perfect neutral scores in all 5 parameters; a fourth position had high neutral scores. Although our strategy for predicting positions had low predictive power for the identification of neutral positions, all positions had neutral scores that were much higher than positions in functional sites. Given this evidence for the existence of neutral positions, similar studies should be carried out for other proteins to generate a database of well characterized neutral positions that can then be available to benchmark and validate predictions about amino acid substitutions.
Retrospective evaluation of feline dystocia: clinicopathologic findings and neonatal outcomes in 35 cases (2009–2020):

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of cases of feline dystocia presenting to a university emergency service.MethodsThe medical records of queens presenting for dyst...
When a Bug is Not a Bug: an Introduction to the Computer Science Academic Vocabulary List

Abstract This article presents the Computer Science Academic Vocabulary List (CSAVL), a pedagogical tool intended for use by English-for-specific-purpose educators and material developers. A 3.5-million-word corpus of academic computer science texts was developed in order to produce the CSAVL. The CSAVL draws from the improved methodologies used in the creation of recent lemma-based word lists such as the Academic Vocabulary List (AVL) (Gardner & Davies, 2014) and the Medical Academic Vocabulary List (MAVL) (Lei & Liu, 2016), which take into account the discipline-specific meanings of academic vocabulary. The CSAVL provides specific information for each entry, including part of speech and CS-specific meanings in order to provide users with clues as to how each item is used within the context of academic CS. Based on the analyses performed in this study, the CSAVL was found to be a more efficient tool for reaching an minimal level of academic CS reading comprehension than the Academic Word List (AWL) (Coxhead, 2000), or the combination of the AWL with the Computer Science Word List (CSWL) (Minshall, 2013).
Giardia muris Cyst Inactivation in Anaerobic Digester Sludge

Anaerobic sludge exposures conducted at 21.5°, 37°, and 50°C produced 99.9 % G. muris cyst inactivations in 15.1 days, 20.5 hrs, and 10.7 minutes, respectively. A comparison of 99.9 % G. muris cyst inactivation times with USEPA anaerobic digestion treatment standards for land applied sludges (in 40 CFR 257) indicated that compliance with the latter would readily achieve 99.9 % G. muris cyst inactivations. Percent cyst inactivation (% I) was defined in terms of cyst concentration and cyst excystation by the following equation: %I = (1- (C)EX)100, where ‘C' was the fraction of the original cyst concentration remaining after exposure and ‘EX' was the fraction of the remaining cysts that were able to excyst. The 99.9 % Giardia cyst inactivation treatment standard of the USEPA's Surface Water Treatment Rule was adopted as a Giardia-based treatment standard for land applied sludges.
Forward link antenna diversity using feedback for indoor communication systems

An approach to mitigate forward link signal fading in a FDD communication system by using an adaptive transmit antenna array and feedback on the reverse link is presented. In a personal communication system environment, multipath propagations can lead to severe space selective fading. Cordless phones and similar devices which cannot conveniently provide multiple antennas at the receiver can suffer from long term fading and therefore have unacceptable quality. Using multiple adaptive transmit antennas, we can adjust the transmission weights to ensure the user is kept out of deep fades. This is achieved by using feedback of the received signal level on the reverse link and adapting the transmission weights. Simulation shows that significant gain against the fading characteristics can be achieved.
Thrombin and histamine stimulate the phosphorylation of elongation factor 2 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells.

Abstract The effects of thrombin and histamine on protein phosphorylation in intact cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) prelabeled with 32PO4 were investigated. Incubation of HUVEC with either thrombin or histamine, agonists known to induce rapid transient increases in intracellular calcium levels in HUVEC, caused a rapid reversible increase in the phosphorylation of a protein with a Mr = 100,000 independent of the presence of extracellular calcium. Immunological and biochemical studies demonstrated that this Mr = 100,000 protein is elongation factor 2 (EF-2), a substrate previously shown to be phosphorylated by calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase III (Nairn, A. C., and Palfrey, H. C. (1987) J. Biol. Chem. 262, 17299-17303). EF-2 is crucial for protein synthesis because it catalyzes the translocation of peptidyl-tRNA on the ribosome. Phosphoamino acid analysis of the EF-2 immunoprecipitated from HUVEC revealed that all of the thrombin-stimulated phosphorylation occurred on threonine. EF-2 was also phosphorylated when HUVEC were treated with the calcium ionophore, ionomycin. Phosphorylation of EF-2 was not increased by treatment with D-Phe-Pro-Arg-chloromethyl ketone thrombin, phorbol dibutyrate, forskolin, or 8-bromo-cGMP. The transient nature of the phosphorylation of EF-2 is consistent with it having a role in mediating some of the transient effects of thrombin and histamine on endothelial cell protein synthesis and functional capabilities.
Localized upper and lower bounds for some estimation problems

We derive upper and lower bounds for some statistical estimation problems. The upper bounds are established for the Gibbs algorithm. The lower bounds, applicable for all statistical estimators, match the obtained upper bounds for various problems. Moreover, our framework can be regarded as a natural generalization of the standard minimax framework, in that we allow the performance of the estimator to vary for different possible underlying distributions according to a pre-defined prior.
IMMIGRANT NEIGHBORHOODS IN CHICAGO AND COMMUNITY SCHOOLS: A MODEL FOR STUDENT SUCCESS

Schools can become the focus of community connected to daily lives and experiences. They can also address the academic and social context of education with strategic partnerships. Educational experiences are affected by school and non-school factors; therefore, schools need to expand their boundaries to other areas which affect learning. The greatest influence on students is the family and the greatest influence on families is the community so schools need to seek the integration of school, family and community to deliver a quality educational program for all students. Supporting and challenging students entail supporting and strengthening families. There is interdependence among schools, families and communities in order to exert a positive influence on academic outcomes. This paper examines the characteristics of effective community schools in a study of one particular school in an immigrant neighborhood in Chicago.
An Exploratory Investigation of Organizational Values in the United States and India

Abstract This exploratory study examined similarities and differences between organizational values in the United States and India (n = 188). Results indicate (a) that the national culture impacts organizational values in USA and India and (b) support for the crossvergence perspective particularly for Indian organizational values wherein the values indicate a combination of indigenous and Western values. Given the increased US investment and business presence in India, a discussion of management procedures and techniques compatible with the Indian business values is offered for US managers dealing with an Indian work force.
Frequently Used Codes and Standards

The Merriam-Webster dictionary definition of “Code” is a systematic statement of a body of law, specially one given statutory force, and “Standard” is something established by authority, custom, or general consent as a model or an example. In general, engineering codes (absolutely to be followed) and standards (to be followed as a good engineering practice) are developed to hold the design and construction industry players responsible to a minimum acceptable level of designing, constructing, manufacturing, commissioning, controlling, testing, etc. There are a large number of regulatory codes, guidelines, and standards which direct the design and construction community members to the correct way of performing their duties. These regulations cover all the aspects of the design and construction and its prime target is to protect the occupants, buildings and of course the environment. In general for the design and construction environment from the point of view of an HVAC engineer or contractor the mechanical, building and energy codes, ASHRAE standards and testing agencies regulations are the most important reference documents to be followed.
Kabuki syndrome: a challenge for the primary care provider.

Purpose Using a case format, the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and management of Kabuki syndrome, a rare genetic condition, is presented. Nurse practitioners (NPs) may encounter patients presenting to the primary care setting with this rare syndrome; understanding this condition may help them to better care for these patients. Data source A case presentation of a pediatric patient supported by the currently available literature from multiple health and medial databases. Conclusion Kabuki syndrome is a rare phenomenon that occurs in 1 in every 32,000 births. A diagnosis of this syndrome may take several months to years because there are no specific tests, and the physical features may be subtle at birth, becoming more pronounced over a period of time during childhood. The degree of disease severity varies widely. Implications for practice Understanding this syndrome increases the NP's ability to provide primary care to affected patients and their families. Management of this condition requires the NP take on the role of gatekeeper, so timely coordination of specialty or subspecialty services is provided. Special consideration should be given to monitoring caregiver fatigue and impact on siblings so family members can be directed to the appropriate support services.
Expression and Function of CYR61, an Angiogenic Factor, in Breast Cancer Cell Lines and Tumor Biopsies

We have previously shown that expression of heregulin (HRG) is closely correlated with breast cancer progression. We have subsequently isolated Cyr61, a ligand for the alpha(v)beta3 integrin that is differentially expressed in HRG-positive cells, and have shown that it is expressed in all of the invasive and metastatic breast cancer cell lines tested. Preliminary evaluation of Cyr61 expression in breast tumor biopsies revealed expression of Cyr61 in about 30% of invasive breast carcinomas. Significantly, we demonstrated that Cyr61 is a downstream effector of HRG action, because a Cyr61-neutralizing antibody abolished the ability of HRG-expressing cells to migrate in vitro. Furthermore, we have shown that HRG-expressing cells denote higher levels of alpha(v)beta3 expression, and we have established that Cyr61 action is mediated, at least in part, through its receptor alpha(v)beta3, because a functional blocking antibody of the alpha(v)beta3 blocked the Matrigel outgrowth of HRG-expressing cells. These results strongly suggest that Cyr61 is necessary for HRG-mediated chemomigration and that Cyr61 plays a functional role in breast cancer progression, possibly through its interactions with the alpha(v)beta3 receptor.
Serum leptin and IGF-I levels in cystic fibrosis.

The role of leptin in states of negative energy balance such as cystic fibrosis (CF) has not been explored. We hypothesized that leptin levels in patients with CF would be low due to correlation with body weight. Despite the importance of IGF-I in normal growth and anabolism, there are few data on IGF-I in CF.We studied 27 CF patients (25±5 yrs, 57±9 kg, 10M/17F) and 12 control subjects (25±4 yrs, 57±9 kg, 6M/6F). Each subject underwent analysis of lean body mass (LBM) and percent body fat by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Serum leptin and IGF-1 levels were measured by radioimmunoassay.Serum leptin levels were similar both in CF and in controls (CF=5.3±4.1 ng/ml, C = 4.4±3.6ng/ml; p = 0.3), and there was no difference in percent body fat between the two groups (CF = 26± 13%, C = 21±7%; p = 0.3). Leptin levels were significantly lower in CF males than females corresponding to lower fat levels in males in both CF and controls. Leptin levels were positively correlated with percent body fat both in ...
Neutrino transport in supernova models: A multigroup, flux limited diffusion scheme

A multigroup, diffusion scheme is derived from the Boltzmann equation for efficient numerical computation of neutrino transport in a collapsing stellar core. This scheme treats all neutrino scattering processes correctly with a Legendre expansion of the scattering rates. Modifications of the diffusion coefficient and the addition of a flux limiter extend the applicability of the scheme to neutrino transparent regimes and improve the agreement of the solution in both opaque and transparent regimes with those obtained analytically for some test problems. In addition, a more accurate treatment of the neutrino flowAcross shock discontinuities is developed through a shock matching condition. The solutions given by this multigroup, flux-limited diffusion scheme are compared with those of a modifiedS N code.
Bilateral Branch Pulmonary Artery Banding as a Bridge to Decision/Preoperative Optimization of High-Risk Neonates With Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome:

We present our experience with bilateral branch pulmonary artery banding as a bridge to decision/optimization of hemodynamics, followed by standard Norwood stage I palliation in very high-risk infants with hypoplastic left heart syndrome.
Children's Exposure to Violent Video Games and Desensitization to Violence

Desensitization to violence is cited frequently as being an outcome of exposure to media violence and a condition that contributes to increased aggression. This article initiates the development of a conceptual model for describing possible relationships among violent video games, brain function, and desensitization by using empathy and attitudes toward violence as proxy measures of desensitization. More work is needed to understand how specific game content may affect brain activity, how brain development may be affected by heavy play at young ages, and how personality and lifestyle variables may moderate game influence. Given the current state of knowledge, recommendations are made for clinicians to help parents monitor and limit exposure to violent video games and encourage critical thinking about media violence.
Condensation of ammonium dihydrogen orthophosphate to diammonium dihydrogen pyrophosphate in ammonium nitrate

The equilibrium between ammonium dihydrogen orthophosphate, diammonium dihydrogen pyrophosphate and water has been studied at temperatures between 150 and 200° in ammonium nitrate. At constant temperature, increasing ammonium nitrate content was associated with increases in apparent equilibrium constant for the condensation reaction, and in apparent heat of condensation from −13·7 to −6·5 keal per mole of diammonium dihydrogen pyrophosphate.
Scanning Impedance Probe Microscope

A new sensitive scanning impedance probe microscope (SIPM) that uses have a wavelength resonator with conjunction with a diplexer connected to a vector network analyzer (VNA), which can perform a very sensitive capacitance measurement at the tip of a conductive atomic force microscope is the subject of this invention. This is achieved through transformation of the high impedance (very small AFM tip capacitance between tip and sample to ground) to 50 Ohm (or any other system's characteristic impedance) through a half a wavelength resonator and diplexer. The VNA measurement architecture as exists today has the capability of measuring impedances close to the characteristic impedance of the analyzer (i.e. 50 Ohms) to a good precision and up to 100 GHz stimulus frequency .The precision and resolution of the DUT (device under test) impedance markedly drops as it deviates from 50 ohms by a couple of order of magnitudes specially in the case of the capacitance between the AFM tip and sample to the ground. We are proposing a solution which remedies the lack of precision and resolution for large and small impedances (small capacitance) when measured by existing VNA.
Stroke is no joke.

T S t IT IS 10:20 on Tuesday morning. You arrive in the Phase I PACU for a 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM shift, change clothes, check the assignment board, and find you are to recover the patient who underwent the 8:00 AM carotid endarterectomy (CEA), who will go to ICU postoperatively. You receive a call from OR room #1 at 11:15 requesting a T-piece for this patient, who will arrive in 10 minutes. You are also told he has an arterial line and central line, which are continuously monitored.
Inheritance of juvenile shell colour of the oyster drill Urosalpinx cinerea.

MARINE prosobranchs have been extensively studied to elucidate the origin of their shell colour. Some authors have indicated that shell colour is in the main environmentally determined, that is, by diet1–5, by light6, or by salinity7. Colour also results from direct genotypic action, for example, the change to adult coloration with maturity in some Cypraea species8,9, or the restoration of initial colour patterns after shell repair10,11.
Molecular cloning of a regulatory protein for membrane-bound guanylate cyclase GC-A.

Abstract Activation of membrane-bound guanylate cyclase GC-A by atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) may require the involvement of accessory proteins. To identify these postulated proteins, we isolated a 1.0-kb cDNA clone from a rat brain expression library using a polyclonal antiserum against mastoparan. The 1.0-kb cDNA encodes a protein of 111 amino acids. Expression of this cDNA in COS-7 cells potentiated ANF-stimulated GC-A activity. Therefore, the 1.0-kb gene encodes a guanylate cyclase regulatory protein (GCRP). Fluorescence microscopy studies using the fusion protein of GCRP with green fluorescence protein (GFP) indicated that GCRP was present in the cytosol in PC12 cells, but translocated toward the plasma membrane in the presence of ANF. Coimmunoprecipitation experiments indicate that GCRP associates with GC-A in the presence of ANF. These results suggest that ANF induces the association of GCRP with GC-A and this association contributes to the activation of GC-A.
Modeling vacuum and gaseous breakdown in dielectric-loaded systems

Particle-in-cell (PIC) tools and analysis techniques are developed and used to study contributions to breakdown in vacuum through atmospheric pressure for various gases in DC systems loaded with angled dielectrics. Gaseous species include, separately, stationary H 2 , Ar, and air. Weakly collisional discharges from vacuum through low pressure have similar behavior as a function of pressure and are well-characterized by distribution metrics for secondaries, e.g. average emission coefficient and emission-energy mode. Higher pressures will be shown to exhibit coupling effects from volume and surface-charge buildup at boundaries. Outgassed species are included for select simulations and penetrate deeply into the system via diffusion, particularly at lower pressures, leading to earlier onset and enhancement of space-charge effects, primarily through enhanced ionization.
Urinary tract infection and pyelonephritis.

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a broad term that refers to a predominantly bacterial infection that may occur anywhere from the kidney and perinephric fascia to the urethral meatus. It may be a minor infection with little consequence, or a rapidly evolving infection with significant morbidity. UTI is one of the most common bacterial infections seen in the emergency department. As many as 50% 10,66 of women will be affected over their lifetime, resulting in millions of outpatient physician visits (including approximately 1.5 million emergency department visits) 74 at an estimated expense of several billion dollars. 33 Despite a significant trend towards outpatient treatment of pyelonephritis, there remain approximately 1.8 million hospitalizations for UTI annually. 75 Most UTIs involve healthy young women with self-limited cystitis. However, UTIs are also a common cause of infection among nursing home residents 12 where the rate of UTI in males approaches that of females. Urinary infection is one of the most common sources of bacteremia in the elderly population. 4 UTIs have the potential for severe complications, including abscess formation, disseminated intravascular coagulation, acute respiratory distress syndrome, sepsis, and chronic renal failure. The key to the emergency department management is to understand the potential risks of the population being treated and to tailor the evaluation, treatment, and follow-up accordingly. This review will summarize the pathophysiology and natural history of UTI and provide evaluation, treatment, and follow-up recommendations for UTI in women. The article will then consider other specific risk groups. Pediatric UTI and an in-depth discussion of those patients with indwelling devices is discussed elsewhere in this book.
The illusion of certainty: A catastrophe model of decision framing

Tversky and Kahneman (1981) have proposed that decision frames act to bias the processing of decision-relevant information by decision makers. Decision frames act as illusions to which most decision makers are susceptible. We believe that catastrophe theory provides a unique framework by which the effects of decision framing can be studied. Catastrophe theory has been proposed as a way to explain the sudden shifts in preference in perceptual experiments (Stewart & Peregoy, 1983). Tversky and Kahneman’s (1981) decision-framing concept, in decision situations, is proposed to be analogous to the cognitive, organizing centers underlying catastrophic changes in response in perceptual experiments. The results of this study were interpreted as demonstrating the heuristic value of catastrophe theory in describing the decision-framing phenomenon as a cognitive illusion.
Monoterpenoid differentiation in relation to the morphology of Pinus edulis

Abstract Wood of Pinus remota from 126 trees sampled in 13 localities throughout of its ranges in the United States and Mexico has been analysed for monoterpenes. The trees of P. remota produced mainly α-pinene and limonene with ranges for population means of 68.0–92.3% and 3.2–16.9%, respectively. Limonene was useful for distinguishing this species from subsp. cembroides . Small chemical differences were found between the eastern and western variants of P. remota . The chemical differences between the trees of P. remota from the United States and the trees of the newly described species, P. catarinae , from Mpo Santa Catarina near Saltillo, Mexico, were also very few and quantitatively small. The variations in morphological characteristics paralleled the chemical differentiation. The chemical and morphological data substantiated the species status of P. remota , and suggested the status of a mere marginal variant for P. catarinae .
The future of minicomputer programming

The programming of minicomputers to date has resembled Pooh Bear coming downstairs because although we feel that there really is another way, we rarely stop bumping. Programmers for small computers have long exhibited what we call "the minicomputer syndrome", which is a very low expectation of program support and facilities on a minicomputer and a lack of appreciation of the hardware and software tools one can employ to attack and solve a programming problem.
Stress-induced fractal rearrangement of the endothelial cell cytoskeleton causes apoptosis

Abstract Background: Apoptosis, a mechanism of cell death prominent in critical illnesses including disseminated inflammation and multiorgan dysfunction syndrome, is characterized by morphologic changes including cell shrinkage, condensation of organelles, blebbing, and chromatin fragmentation. These phenomena suggest substantial changes in cytoskeletal structure. We hypothesized that stress-induced apoptosis in endothelial cells is, in part, a consequence of a critical cytoskeletal rearrangement. Methods: Porcine aortic endothelial cells in culture, surrogates for the microvasculature in vivo, were exposed sequentially to Escherichia coli endotoxin (25 μ g/mL; 18 hours) to induce the inflammatory response and then to sodium arsenite (160 μ mol/L; 120 minutes) to induce the heat-shock response, a well-characterized model of stress-induced apoptosis. Laser confocal micrographs of fluorescein isothiocyanate–labeled phalloidin-stained cells were analyzed to calculate the border fractal dimension of the cytoskeleton. Other cells were exposed to cytochalasin D, a fungal metabolite, which interferes with polymerization of actin from its globular to its filamentous form, and similarly were analyzed with respect to fractal dimension, viability (neutral red assay), and manner of death (annexin V fluorescence–activated cell scanning analysis). Results: Induction of the inflammatory or heat-shock responses caused subtle and distinct rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton. When these stimuli were applied in sequence, a synergistic interaction led to profound cytoskeletal collapse. Reversal of the sequence did not induce the cytoskeletal disruption. Cytochalasin D alone induced a dose-dependent cytoskeletal collapse indistinguishable from that caused by the acute phase–heat shock sequence that caused cell death by apoptosis. The effect of lower doses of cytochalasin D could be potentiated by subsequent induction of the heat-shock response. Conclusions: Sequential stresses that mimic pathophysiologic “two-hit” stimuli induce a characteristic fractal rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton. Because cytochalasin D–induced rearrangement of this cytoskeleton produced apoptosis indistinguishable from the stress-induced apoptosis, we conclude that the cytoskeletal rearrangement is likely a critical event in the pathway to apoptosis. This disruption of intracellular interconnections mirrors endotoxin-induced disruption in signals among organs and supports the mechanistic hypothesis that multiorgan dysfunction syndrome generally reflects disruption of signals and connections at several levels of biologic organization. (Surgery 1998;124:362-71.)
Deception in the Case of One Sender and Multiple Receivers

Much if not all of the literature on interpersonal communication and deception has focused on the interaction between two people, with one person attempting to deceive the other. This paper seeks to extend the prior literature by presenting some initial thoughts on deceptive communication when there is one deceiver and multiple receivers. Viewing deceptive communication as a dynamic, strategic process, individual, situational, and group factors that may inform the deceiver of a particular strategy are presented.
The microstructure of meteoric ice from Vostok, Antarctica

The 3623 m long, 5G core collected at Vostok station, Antarctica, contains alternating layers of meteoric ice with two distinctly different microstructures. In this paper, we present the microstructure and impurity content of a number of specimens ranging in depth from 97 to 3416 m, describe in detail the characteristics of the different layers and propose a mechanism for their microstructural development. Digital image analysis, ion chromatography, scanning electron micro- scopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used to measure texture and the location and type of impurities; electron backscatter diffraction was used to determine crystal orientation. The ice associated with interglacial periods is characterized by relatively coarse grains and a strong preferred orientation of the c axes in a plane encompassing the coring direction, producing a vertical-girdle fabric. In contrast, ice from glacial periods is characterized by a much smaller grain size and a strong single- maximum fabric, where the c axes are clustered around the vertical. Calcium is uniquely present in the grain boundaries of the fine-grained glacial layers, and its effect on grain-boundary mobility and the misorientation dependence of mobility can explain the development of the discontinuous micro- structure seen in glacial ice at Vostok station.
A new approach to the synthesis of lysophospholipids: preparation of lysophosphatidic acid and lysophosphatidylcholine from p-nitrophenyl glycerate

Abstract A new stereospecific synthesis of lysophosphatidic acid and lysophosphatidylcholine is reported. The sequence relies on p -nitrophenyl- d -glycerate as a chiral synthon, including chemoselective reduction of the active ester function without affecting other carboxylic ester groups present in the molecule.
A pilot trial of microplasmin in patients with long-term venous access catheter thrombosis

Background Microplasmin, a truncated form of plasmin, degrades fibrin and reacts with the circulating inhibitor α2-antiplasmin. We investigated the safety and efficacy of intra-catheter microplasmin bolus administration for the restoration of catheter function in long-term venous access catheter thrombosis. Methods This open-label, ascending-dose, pilot study enrolled 31 subjects. Two doses of microplasmin were evaluated, (5 mg and 8 mg) administered via a 2 ml intra-catheter bolus injection in 10 and 21 patients respectively. Catheter function was evaluated 30 min after the first bolus administration. In case of incomplete catheter function restoration, a second bolus was administered with reassessment of catheter function 30 min thereafter. Results After the first bolus, complete restoration of catheter withdrawal function was observed in 5 out of 10 (50%) and 14 of out 21 (66%) subjects treated with 5 mg and 8 mg respectively and in 8 out of 10 (80%) and 18 out of 21 (86%) subjects after a second administration of microplasmin. No bleeding complications nor other adverse events were related to microplasmin. Conclusions In this pilot trial, microplasmin restored catheter function in a safe and effective way.
Mentoring in Wikipedia: a clash of cultures

The continuous success of Wikipedia depends upon its capability to recruit and engage new editors, especially those with new knowledge and perspectives. Yet Wikipedia over the years has become a complicated bureaucracy that may be difficult for newcomers to navigate. Mentoring is a practice that has been widely used in offline organizations to help new members adjust to their roles. In this paper, we draw insights from the offline mentoring literature to analyze mentoring practices in Wikipedia and how they influence editor behaviors. Our quantitative analysis of the Adopt-a-user program shows mixed success of the program. Communication between adopters and adoptees is correlated with the amount of article editing done by adoptees shortly after adoption. Our qualitative analysis of the communication between adopters and adoptees suggests that several key functions of mentoring are missing or not fulfilled consistently. Most adopters focus on establishing their legitimacy rather than acting proactively to guide, protect, and support the long-term growth of adoptees. We conclude with recommendations of how Wikipedia mentoring programs can evolve to take advantage of offline best practices.
Decolorization of Annatto in Cheddar Cheese Whey

Abstract A simple and effective method of decolorizing annatto-containing Cheddar cheese whey before drying is described. Annatto is easily decolorized by oxidation by both benzoyl peroxide and hydrogen peroxide. While several combinations of peroxides and heat were acceptable, .002% (w/v) benzoyl peroxide added to whey with holding at 60–63 C for one hour gave good results. The strong intensity of oxidized flavor resulting from this treatment disappeared during the drying procedure.
Social Capital for Health and Human Development

Ichiro Kawachi suggests that studies of social capital and health indicate that community trust and networks can improve health. Although there is no a priori basis for assuming that social capital will always lead to good health, he suggests that investment in social capital for human development by strengthening social networks, building social organizations, strengthening community ties and strengthening civil society could well lead to improved health for the poor.
Functional and temporal analysis of sound production in Galleria mellonella L. (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

1. Pulses of 75 kHz ultrasound are produced when male greater wax moths,Galleria mellonella L. flutter their wings. These moths use this acoustical system to coordinate their pheromone release for mate calling. The conditions under which males generate the sound pulses, and the mechanism of sound production are described forG. mellonella. 2. G. mellonella generates the ultrasound when it activates sound producing mechanisms on its tegulae. Wing motion pushes down a tegular-wing coupler attached to the tegula below a tymbal. This coupler, when pushed down by the wing, activates the tymbal, causing it to buckle in and produce a sound pulse. Upon release of pressure, the tymbal snaps back to produce a second sound pulse. 3. MaleG. mellonella generated sound only when close to or contacting other insects. Insects which caused males to generate sound include either male or femaleG. mellonella and male or femaleAchroia grisella. G. mellonella males did not produce sound in the presence of their natural honeybee hosts. The evidence suggests that maleG. mellonella produce more sound pulses per hour each when calling in groups. 4. MaleG. mellonella could be observed producing sound only under dim light, about 2 lux or less. Males begin to call shortly after sunset, with peak repetition rate frequency occurring during the first two hours. The rate decreases throughout the night, but on warmer nights some sound production continues until sunrise. The light level under which males begin calling approximates the light level within a honeybee hive.