cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pseudo-cyclization through intramolecular hydrogen bond enables discovery of pyridine substituted pyrimidines as new mer kinase inhibitors

Abnormal activation or overexpression of Mer receptor tyrosine kinase has been implicated in survival signaling and chemoresistance in many human cancers. Consequently, Mer is a promising novel cancer therapeutic target. A structure-based drug design approach using a pseudo-ring replacement strategy was developed and validated to discover a new family of pyridinepyrimidine analogues as potent Mer inhibitors. Through SAR studies, 10 (UNC2250) was identified as the lead compound for further investigation based on high selectivity against other kinases and good pharmacokinetic properties. When applied to live cells, 10 inhibited steady-state phosphorylation of endogenous Mer with an IC50 of 9.8 nM and blocked ligand-stimulated activation of a chimeric EGFR-Mer protein. Treatment with 10 also resulted in decreased colony-forming potential in rhabdoid and NSCLC tumor cells, thereby demonstrating functional antitumor activity. The results provide a rationale for further investigation of this compound for therap...
Use of a Polyol in the Prevention of Hemolysis due to an Antifoam Agent in Pump Oxygenators

Studies of the hematological effects of a polymethylsiloxane defoaming agent used in pump oxygenators have shown it to have significant hemolytic properties. This action is principally a direct one upon the red cell and requires some degree of associated mechanical stress. Pluronic, a nonionic emulsion stabilizer prevents the hemolytic process without interfering with the defoaming process.
Co-Induction of LTP and LTD and Its Regulation by Protein Kinases and Phosphatases

The cellular properties of long-term potentiation (LTP) following pairing of pre- and postsynaptic activity were examined at a known glutamatergic synapse in the leech, specifically between the pre...
The Divalent Metal Transporter Homologues SMF-1/2 Mediate Dopamine Neuron Sensitivity in Caenorhabditis elegans Models of Manganism and Parkinson Disease

Parkinson disease (PD) and manganism are characterized by motor deficits and a loss of dopamine (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Epidemiological studies indicate significant correlations between manganese exposure and the propensity to develop PD. The vertebrate divalent metal transporter-1 (DMT-1) contributes to maintaining cellular Mn2+ homeostasis and has recently been implicated in Fe2+-mediated neurodegeneration in PD. In this study we describe a novel model for manganism that incorporates the genetically tractable nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. We show that a brief exposure to Mn2+ increases reactive oxygen species and glutathione production, decreases oxygen consumption and head mitochondria membrane potential, and confers DA neuronal death. DA neurodegeneration is partially dependent on a putative homologue to DMT-1, SMF-1, as genetic knockdown or deletion partially inhibits the neuronal death. Mn2+ also amplifies the DA neurotoxicity of the PD-associated protein α-synuclein. Furthermore, both SMF-1 and SMF-2 are expressed in DA neurons and contribute to PD-associated neurotoxicant-induced DA neuron death. These studies describe a C. elegans model for manganism and show that DMT-1 homologues contribute to Mn2+- and PD-associated DA neuron vulnerability.
The thyrotropin (TSH) receptor transmembrane domain mutation (Pro556-Leu) in the hypothyroid hyt/hyt mouse results in plasma membrane targeting but defective TSH binding

The hyt/hyt mouse is hypothyroid because of a mutation in the TSH receptor (TSH-R). In this report, we confirm the presence of a Pro to Leu mutation in amino acid 556 of the fourth transmembrane domain (TM4) of the TSH-R. This Pro is highly conserved in members of the G protein-coupled seven-transmembrane family of receptors. Insertion of this mutation into the wild-type rat receptor eliminated TSH binding and receptor function in transfected 293 and COS cells. Wild-type TSH-R conferred a 7.4-fold increase in cAMP and a 2.3-fold stimulation of a cAMP-responsive reporter gene. The P556L mutant receptor elicited no increase in cAMP or the reporter gene. Cells transfected with wild-type receptor bound TSH with a Kd of 3.3 x 10(-10) M, whereas no TSH binding was detected with the P556L mutant. Because the P556L mutation occurs in a receptor region (TM4) that is not expected to alter the binding of TSH, additional studies were performed to examine receptor processing and cellular localization. Mutant receptors from solubilized membranes also failed to bind TSH, indicating that the absence of binding to intact cells was not accounted for intracellular trapping of the mutant receptor. Western blot analyses demonstrated that the mutant and wild-type receptors were processed through a similar series of precursors and that a mature 95-kilodalton form of the mutant TSH-R was produced, consistent with its insertion into the plasma membrane. Immunofluorescence studies confirmed expression of the P556L mutant on the cell surface of transfected cells and in thyroid tissue from hyt/hyt mice. Although the extracellular domain of the TSH-R is sufficient for high affinity binding of TSH, we conclude that the hyt mutation in the fourth transmembrane domain eliminates TSH binding. These results suggest interactions between the extracellular and transmembrane domains of the TSH-R and indicate that this highly conserved proline is required for normal receptor structure and function.
Hydrodynamic analysis of feeding in sand dollars

Subtidal sand dollars, Dendraster excentricus, assume an inclined posture under conditions of moderate water flow (10 cm s-1 to 2 m s-1). In this posture, when the test is in the usual position parallel to the water flow, the test acts as a lifting body. Analysis of the hydrodynamic characteristics of the sand dollar test was accomplished by slender body theory. Streamline curvature due to lift moves food particles in the direction of the feeding surface and enhances feeding efficiency. The position parallel to water flow is most advantageous to sand dollars in reversing flows, such as wave surge, whereas sand dollars in unidirectional flows can place the test at a slight angle to the water flow to increase lift. The high camber of sand dollars from a bay habitat characterized by low water velocities was interpreted as an adaptation allowing efficient lift production in low velocity flows; sand dollars from a protected outer coast location characterized by higher water velocities were significantly less cambered. Within sand dollar beds, the animals alter their spacing as a function of the water velocity. This movement is construed as a method for maintaining the optimal gap between sand dollars. Sand dollar tests induce mutual interference effects which vary with the configuration of the animals. In the prevalent configuration, sand dollars are able to take advantage of the streamline curvature induced by neighboring animals. The optimal gap increases as the square of the water velocity. At distances grater than or less than the optimal gap, feeding efficiency was shown to decrease from that at the optimal gap.
Skeletal dysplasia, global developmental delay, and multiple congenital anomalies in a 5-year-old boy-report of the second family with B3GAT3 mutation and expansion of the phenotype.

As a major component of the extracellular matrix, proteoglycans influence the mechanical properties of connective tissue and play an important role in cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. Genetic defects of proteoglycan biosynthesis lead to multi-system disorders, often most prominently affecting the skeletal system and skin. Specific deficiencies in the enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of the linkage region between the core of the proteoglycan protein and its glycosaminoglycan side chains are known as linkeropathies. We report on a patient from a second family with a homozygous c.830G>A (p.Arg277Gln) mutation in the B3GAT3 gene. The clinical features expand the previously reported phenotype of B3GAT3 mutations and of linkeropathies in general. This patient has short stature, facial dysmorphisms, skeletal findings, joint laxity, and cardiac manifestations similar to those previously associated with B3GAT3 mutations. However, he also has developmental delay, a refractive errors, dental defects, pectus carinatum, and skin abnormalities that have only been associated with linkeropathies caused by mutations in B4GALT6 and B4GALT7. He has bilateral inguinal hernias and atlanto-axial as well as atlanto-occipital instability that have not been previously associated with B3GAT3 mutations. We provide a detailed clinical report and a comparative overview of the phenotypic features of the linkeropathies caused by mutations in B3GAT3, B4GALT6, and B4GALT7. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Positioning and Pricing a Product Line

A central problem in marketing is: how should the firm position reposition and price a line of related substitute products in order to maximize profits or welfare. We formulate this problem faced by a monopolist as a mathematical program, outline how to obtain the market data from a sample of customers, discuss what cost data are relevant, and suggest a heuristic algorithm to solve the problem. The output of the process is a list of products to offer, their prices, and the customer segments which purchase each product. While additional real world complexities, e.g., uncertainty about customer wants, product performance, and competitive response, are not modeled, we believe the system developed can serve as an important input into the decision process when new products are designed and priced. The methodology can be used as a part of a decision support system, where management specifies the number of products desired. The system suggests a few good solutions, together with the prices and customer segments served by each product. We use the standard assumption that the market is composed of different customer segments of various sizes, each containing homogeneous customers. Customers choose one brand only, the one that provides them with maximum value for the money. The firm faces both fixed and variable production and marketing costs for each product. Competition is either nonexistent, or assumed not to respond to the firm's moves. The information available to the firm is the sizes and preferences of the segments, based on a sample of customers, and the cost data. As an alternative to the traditional approach of estimating a parametric utility function, and aggregating customers into segments, we can also use the raw data as input, where each customer in the sample represents a segment. This, we believe, allows us to reduce the errors introduced in the process. Heuristics for solving the problem are suggested. The heuristics are evaluated on a set of simulated problems, and compared to the optimal solutions. The heuristics perform well when compared to all feasible solutions on a set of small simulated problems. We also discuss the application of the procedure to a 'real life' sized problem.
Benign Cystic Mesothelioma of the Peritoneum

Benign cystic mesothelioma of the peritoneum is a well-defined but rare entity. A total of 35 instances have been reported, almost all in adults, the majority females. Cystic mesotheliomas have, until recently, been labeled cystic lymphangiomas or lymphohemangiomas. We report the case of a 14-year-old boy who, despite only subtotal resection of his abdominal mass, is well and recurrence free 9 months after surgery. The role of immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy in diagnosis is emphasized.
Ultrafast Solvation Dynamics: A View from the Solvent's Perspective Using a Novel Resonant-Pump, Nonresonant-Probe Technique

The condensed-phase solvation dynamics of those molecules in immediate proximity to an excited-state chromophore were probed with femtosecond time resolution by a technique that employs resonant optical excitation of the chromophore followed by a nonresonant third-order Raman probe of the solvent. This new method provides a microscopic perspective from the point of view of those solvent molecules that make up the local environment of a dynamic event. In this initial study, we have investigated the solvation dynamics of 9,10-diphenylanthracene dissolved in chloroform.
On the Jeffreys prior for the multivariate Ewens distribution

Abstract We derive the Jeffreys prior for the parameter of the Multivariate Ewens Distribution and study some of its properties. In particular, we show that this prior is proper and has no finite moments. We also investigate the impact of this prior on the a priori distribution of the number of species and the a priori probability of discovery of a new species, which are usually employed in subjective prior elicitation. The effect of the Jeffreys prior for posterior inference is illustrated using examples arising in the context of inference for species sampling models and Dirichlet process mixture models.
TurKit: Tools for iterative tasks on mechanical turk

Mechanical Turk (MTurk) is an increasingly popular web service for paying people small rewards to do human computation tasks. Current uses of MTurk typically post independent parallel tasks. I am exploring an alternative iterative paradigm, in which workers build on or evaluate each other's work. Part of my proposal is a toolkit called TurKit which facilitates deployment of iterative tasks on MTurk. I want to explore using this technology as a new form of end-user programming, where end-users are writing “programs” that are really instructions executed by humans on MTurk.
Response by Erik Parens & Josephine Johnston

In our article, we wrote that speaking of neuroethics—or nanoethics or genethics—is not unreasonable. We also said that, if one does speak in such terms, one should be aware of three potential problems: of reinventing the bioethical wheel; of exaggerating what the science can teach us about who we are; and of exaggerating or mistaking what bioethics research can deliver. In his comment, Eric Racine does not address the grounds we offered to support our identification of these three potential problems, but instead responds to what he calls two “implicit assumptions”. He writes that “the authors opt for the perspective that neuroethics can contribute to ‘carving up bioethics into ever more specialized subfields' and to ‘squandering scarce resources'” (Parens & Johnston, 2007; Racine, 2008). Yet, Racine's letter does not allay that worry. He says, for example, that “neuroethics is bringing new ethical perspectives and contexts to consider in their own right with the help of new colleagues and students” (Racine, 2008)—in part because bioethics has failed to do so. Without a doubt, neuroethics has attracted the attention of many smart, creative and productive people who call attention to ethical issues in new technological and scientific contexts. However, we question whether these people contribute new ethical perspectives or whether these new contexts raise new ethical questions. What these people are doing in these new contexts can be very important, but we worry that we will waste time and resources if we fail to notice the familiarity of the ethical problems and the finite number of possible ethical responses. Our other assumption, according to Racine, is “that neuroethics is somehow addressing only ethical issues associated with technological developments” (Parens & Johnston, 2007; Racine, 2008). We do not assume this; the problems we raised are not limited to new technologies. The first problem described in the previous paragraph has to do with hyperbole about the novelty of the ethical issues arising in the context of technological—and scientific—developments. The second problem we explored in our article was to do with hyperbole about how much neuroscience can tell us about who we are. The third problem has to do with hyperbole about how much ethicists can tell policy-makers, clinicians, members of the public or anyone else about what they should do, think or believe. Finally, we would emphasize that the three problems we worry about are not in any way potential problems only for neuroethics; those problems might arise in any area of ethical inquiry that deals with new science and technology.
A requirement for the intercellular messenger nitric oxide in long-term potentiation

Long-term potentiation (LTP) of synaptic transmission is a widely studied model of neuronal plasticity. The induction of LTP is known to require processes in the postsynaptic neuron, while experimental evidence suggests that the expression of LTP may occur in the presynaptic terminal. This has led to speculation that a retrograde messenger travels from the post- to the presynaptic cell during induction of LTP. Extracellular application or postsynaptic injection of two inhibitors of nitric oxide synthase, N-nitro-L-arginine or NG-methyl-L-arginine, blocks LTP. Extracellular application of hemoglobin, which binds nitric oxide, also attenuates LTP. These findings suggest that nitric oxide liberated from postsynaptic neurons may travel back to presynaptic terminals to cause LTP expression.
Introduction to the special issue: The Tenth International Conference on Health Policy

This special issue of Health Services and Outcomes Research Methodology contains papers, based on presentations at the tenth International Conference on Health Policy Statistics (ICHPS) held October 5–7, 2013 at The Palmer House Hilton Hotel in Chicago. This special issue contains 6 high quality papers, which reflects the very high standard of research presented at the conference. Over 260 statisticians, methodologists, and health policy experts attended the tenth ICHPS, which was co-chaired by Xiao-Hua Andrew Zhou of the University of Washington and Donald Hedeker of the University of Illinois at Chicago. The meeting’s theme, ‘‘Statistically Engaged Health Care Policy,’’ reflected the growing importance of the collaboration and engagement of statisticians in evaluating and improving health care policy in the US and throughout the world. Major presentations were from a range of topics, including comparative effectiveness research, causal inference, longitudinal data, missing data, propensity score methods, data synthesis, personalized medicine and dynamic treatment regimes, and methods for patientreported outcomes. Keynote addresses were given by Seth Eisen, Office of Research and Development of the Department of Veteran Affairs, on ‘‘The Reincarnation of Health Policy Statisticians,’’ and Sharon-Lise Normand, Department of Health Care Policy at the Harvard Medical School, on ‘‘Statistics and Health Policy in 2013—Progresses and Retreats.’’ Also, the Plenary address was delivered by Robert Gibbons, Departments of Medicine and Health
Total Viabahn endoprosthesis collapse

We present a case of Viabahn (W. L. Gore & Associates, Flagstaff, Ariz) collapse during popliteal artery aneurysm treatment. An elderly man with severe comorbidities presented with a 34-mm popliteal artery aneurysm. Proximal and distal landing sites of 11 and 9 mm, respectively, demonstrated by preoperative computed tomography angiography were confirmed by intraoperative angiography. After Viabahn deployment, angiography revealed a filling defect in the distal popliteal graft with poor flow. Balloon dilatation failed. A femoropopliteal bypass with aneurysm ligation was performed. Transection of the distal popliteal vessel demonstrated complete infolding. Our choice of grafts represented 15% to 18% proximal and distal oversizing. Focal areas of relative vessel narrowing may lead to incomplete graft unfolding and graft failure.
Extent of regional wall motion abnormalities by gated spect in patients with Q-wave myocardial infarction

Abstract Background: Regional wall motion abnormalities (RWMA) on post stress gated SPECT enhance detection of myocardial ischemia. However, the extent of RWMA in patients (pts) with a prior electrocardiography (EKG) Q-wave myocardial infarction (Q-MI) on gated SPECT is not known. We studied this on post stress gated SPECT myocardial perfusion (MPI) studies in pts with a Q-MI by EKG. Methods: Thirty pts with EKG criteria of Q-MI, as defined by the presence of a Q or Qs wave of > 40 msec (± height > 1/3 rd of the R-wave) in two consecutive leads of a major epicardial coronary artery were analyzed. Quantitative post stress gated SPECT (Autoquant -QGS®) functional raw data for motion (mm) and thickening (%) on a four region polar map was analyzed. The maximum endocardial wall motion from end diastole to end systole on the brightest colour scale was 10 mm. The wall thickening form end diastole to end systole expressed as a percentage (%), with twice the end diastolic thickness at end systole equal to 100%. A 17-segment, 5-point scale sum rest score (SRS) and sum motion score (SMS) were calculated on the gated MPI. Twenty-three pts with a normal rest EKG and a MPI study were compared as a control group. Results: Mean age was 61 ± 10 years, 56% males. The individual regional (n=43) scores corresponding to the Q-MI location and that of the control group are shown on table. 24 of 30 pts (80 %) and 33 of 43 (78%) regions with a Q-MI had RWMA by gated SPECT. Q-MI pts showed significantly lower mean wall motion and wall thickening scores compared to the control group (p SPECT Variables Q - MI (n = 30) Control Group (n = 23) p value Motion (mm) Septum (n = 11) 2.0 ± 1.7 6.5 ± 1.6 Lateral (n = 5) 5.0 ± 2.6 9 ± 1.4 Anterior (n = 3) 4.2 ± 2.0 9.2 ± 1.5 Inferior (n = 24) 4.7 ± 2.0 7.6 ± 1.7 Thickening (%) Septum 22 ± 12 44 ± 11 Lateral 10.5 ± 5 42 ± 12 Anterior 10.5 ± 9 40 ± 10 Inferior 18 ± 9 39 ± 11 SMS 17 ± 10 0.5 ± 1.2 SRS 22 ± 10 1.2 ± 1.3 Conclusions: Pts with Q-MI have about 20% normal, 45% akinetic and remaining hypokinetic regions by gated SPECT. Gated SPECT MPI motion of ≤ 5 mm, wall thickening ≤ 30%, mean SMS ≥ 7 and mean SRS ≥12 were markers of a Q-MI by EKG.
Real-time measurement of the absorption coefficient of aerosol particles.

The authors describe the development of an aethalometer. This portable device measures aerosol absortion in real time. (AIP)
Binding Capacity of Beef and Turkey Muscle Tissues in Processed Meats

Homogenates of beef and turkey skeletal, cardiac and smooth muscle were evaluated for moisture retention during cooking and cohesive binding of ground-beef or textured soy-protein particles. Homogenates contained 10% protein and 2% NaCl, or that formulation with 0.4% NasP3O10, and were either unwashed or washed to remove soluble protein. The inherent binding properties of the ground beef dominated the homogenates’binding effects. The results of binding of soy-protein particles were complex, with interactions involving each factor studied. Washing improved cohesive binding and moisture retention. Skeletal muscle homogenates gave the best cohesive binding, followed by cardiac and then smooth muscle. Smooth muscle homogenates had poor moisture retention.
Effect of vitamin E on selenium cytotoxicity in chick ganglia cultures.

Abstract Short term exposure of cultured chick ganglia nerve fibers and neuroglia to selenite produced half maximal inhibitory growth effects in concentrations of 6.2 (2.9–13.0) × 10 −5 M and 1.1 (0.7–1.7) × 10 −4 M, respectively. Complete inhibition of growth for both cell types was apparent at 1 × 10 −3 M, while slight stimulation of nerve fiber outgrowth occurred at 1 × 10 −6 M. The addition of vitamin E to these mixed nerve elements produced effects not distinguishable from controls, while on the other hand affording significant protection to the cytotoxic effects of selenite (1 × 10 −4 M). Nerve fibers were more sensitive to selenite than were glial cells. Furthermore, selenite with and without vitamin E exerted a darkening effect on the explant cultures at 1 × 10 −4 M, which became absent or reduced above or below this concentration. The high affinity and binding properties of selenium for the non-polar hydrophobic bi-lipid layer and SH functions of membranes may be implicated in this metal-membrane interaction. The cytotoxic effects of selenite in vitro even though non-specific are protected by the simultaneous presence of vitamin E.
Object-oriented framework for rapid game prototyping

Small game development groups and companies are faced with two important challenges in today's economy: creating a good game prototype as showcase for game publishers and meeting the time to market deadlines. These two challenges are sometimes the factors that will separate a successful group from one that is not. The learning curve in design and implementation is a significant component of these two challenges. If the learning curve is too steep then deadlines may not be met and the overall quality of the software is lowered. This study presents a new game- programming library called PGL that addresses the timing and learning factors that exist in game development.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry of nucleic acids by laser ablation and ionization from a frozen aqueous matrix

Positive-ion time-of-flight mass spectra of sodium salts of oligodeoxyribonucleic acids (DNA), and a protein, lysozyme, have been obtained using pulsed-laser ablation and ionization of frozen aqueous solutions from a cooled copper substrate. The efficiency of positive-ion formation was found to increase when the ablating laser was tuned to a frequency corresponding to resonant electronic transitions in sodium or copper atoms. Molecular ions of double-stranded oligomeric nucleic acids, with little fragmentation, were observed at masses up to ∼18 500 Da. Single-stranded nucleic acids could be fragmented by lowering the laser power-density to reduce the the substrate heating rate. A dimer ion of lysozyme, at mass ∼29 000 Da, was detected at an impact energy on the electron multiplier of only 3.5 keV.
Surgical correction of metopic synostosis

Background Premature closure of the metopic suture results in deformation of the anterior portion of the calvarium, which can vary from mild to severe. In mild forms, there is only prominent ridging of the metopic suture; more severe forms result in a marked narrowing of the frontal and temporal regions that in turn affects the supraorbital rims and produces hypotelorism.
Induction of electrical heterogeneity impairs ventricular defibrillation: an effect specific to regional conduction velocity slowing.

Background—This study determined whether dispersion of conduction velocity, refractoriness, or excitability increases biphasic shock defibrillation energy requirements (DERs). Methods and Results—Twenty-four swine were instrumented with a mid-LAD perfusion catheter for regional infusion of lidocaine 0.75 mg · kg−1 · h−1 (n=7), low-dose d-sotalol (0.16 mg · kg−1 · h−1) (n=4), high-dose d-sotalol (0.5 mg · kg−1 · h−1) (n=6), or saline (n=7). Effective refractory periods (ERPs) were determined at 5 myocardial sites, and regional conduction velocity was determined in LAD-perfused and -nonperfused regions. Regional lidocaine infusion increased DER values by 84% (P=0.008) and slowed conduction velocity by 23% to 35% (P<0.01) but did not affect ERP. Conversely, regional low- and high-dose d-sotalol infusion did not alter DER values or conduction velocity but increased regional ERP by 14% to 17% (P<0.001). Regional lidocaine increased conduction velocity dispersion by 100% to 200% (P=0.01) but did not change ERP ...
Prevention of bone loss in survivors of breast cancer: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Background: Few data are available on the safety and efficacy of once-weekly oral bisphosphonate therapy in breast cancer survivors. Objective: Our objective was to determine whether risedronate, 35 mg weekly, is efficacious and safe in preventing bone loss associated with chemotherapy-induced menopause. Design: The study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial over 12 months. Setting and Participants: Participants included 87 newly postmenopausal women with status post chemotherapy, recruited from a breast cancer clinic in an academic medical center. Intervention: Participants were randomly assigned to receive risedronate 35 mg/wk or placebo. Main Outcome Measures: The primary outcomes were the 12-month changes in spine and hip bone mineral density. Secondary outcomes included changes in markers of bone resorption (urine N-telopeptide cross-linked collagen type I) and formation (osteocalcin, N-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen, and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase). Re...
The efficiency of alkaline extraction for the recovery of hexavalent chromium (CrVI) from paint samples and the effect of sample storage on CrVI recovery

Workplace exposures to CrVI, a human carcinogen, are significant in spraying operations of chromate-containing paints. Accurate determination of CrVI in paint aerosol air samples is important in assessing a worker’s exposure to CrVI. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health method 7604 is widely used for determining CrVI in air samples. It utilizes an alkaline extraction procedure. It was historically validated for paint aerosol samples containing 24.5 to 61.5 μg of CrVI. The literature documented potential airborne CrVI exposures greater than 61.5 μg in recent paint spraying operations. The efficiency of the alkaline method at extracting CrVI from paint samples containing 250 to 3000 μg of CrVI was determined. Paint was prepared, sampled, extracted twice and then digested. Extracts were analyzed for CrVI and digestates of the residual Cr were analyzed for total Cr. Alkaline extraction of paint samples using NIOSH method 7604 resulted in quantitative recoveries for paint samples with CrVI filter loadings from 250 to 3000 μg. A decrease in CrVI extraction efficiency was observed in samples containing >1000 μg of CrVI. A second extraction improved the recovery of CrVI in these samples. Refrigerating paint aerosol samples for up to 2 weeks did not affect their CrVI content.
Status of the hunting spider genera Trachelas and Meriola (Araneae: Corinnidae) in Kansas

Both Trachelas and Meriola were formerly placed in the family Clubionidae, but currently reside in the family Corinnidae. At one time, the genus Meriola was synonymized with Trachelas, but it has since been resurrected (Ubick et al. 2005). Members of both genera are strikingly colored and lack leg spines. The bright red carapace contrasts strongly against the pale white abdomen (Fig. 1). Detailed examination of the male and female genitalia is required for species determination.
A Mixture Model of Discontinuous Development in Heavy Drinking From Ages 18 to 30: The Role of College Enrollment*

Objective: The purpose of this study was to illustrate the use of latent class analysis to examine change in behavior over time. Patterns of heavy drinking from ages 18 to 30 were explored in a national sample; the relationship between college enrollment and pathways of heavy drinking, particularly those leading to adult heavy drinking, was explored. Method: Latent class analysis for repeated measures is used to estimate common pathways through a stage-sequential process. Common patterns of development in a categorical variable (presence or absence of heavy drinking) are estimated and college enrollment is a grouping variable. Data were from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (N = 1,265). Results: Eight patterns of heavy drinking were identified: no heavy drinking (53.7%); young adulthood only (3.7%); young adulthood and adulthood (3.7%); college age only (2.6%); college age, young adulthood, and adulthood (8.7%); high school and college age (4.4%); high school, college age, and young adulthood (6....
A new formulation for nonlinear forward-backward smoothing

A new formulation for nonlinear smoothing is derived using forward-backward sigma-point Kalman filtering (SPKF). The forward filter uses the standard SPKF. The backward filter requires the use of the inverse dynamics of the forward filter. While smoothers based on the extended Kalman filter (EKF) simply invert the linearized dynamics, with the SPKF the forward nonlinear dynamics are never analytically linearized. Thus the backward nonlinear dynamics are not well defined. In previous work, a sigma-point Kalman smoother (SPKS) was derived by learning a nonlinear model of the backward dynamics from empirical data. In this paper, we make use of the relationship between the SPKF and weighted statistical linear regression (WSLR). The resulting pseudo-linearized dynamics obtained by WSLR is more accurate in the statistical sense than using a first order truncated Taylor series expansion as with the EKF. A new backward information filter can then be derived, which is combined with the forward SPKF to form the smoothed estimates.
Further Evaluation of Associations Between Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity and Oppositional Defiant Disorder Symptoms and Bullying-Victimization in Adolescence

Relations between symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and bullying-victimization in adolescence are not yet clear. Accordingly, the current study evaluated these associations, with attention to gender differences, in a sample of predominantly Latino 9th–12th grade students (52.6 % male; mean grade level = 10.35, SD = 1.11). Further, the role of peer delinquency in these associations was evaluated. Findings indicated that ODD symptoms were more strongly associated with both bullying and victimization than ADHD symptoms, and the effects of ODD symptoms on physical forms of both bullying and victimization were stronger for males than females. The association between ODD symptoms and physical bullying was stronger at high levels of peer delinquency when compared to low levels of peer delinquency for both males and females. The role of peer delinquency in the link between ADHD symptoms and bullying and victimization appears to be gender specific and in need of further evaluation. Implications for the need to focus primarily on ODD symptoms for both bullying and victimization prevention and intervention are discussed.
The Impact of Authorization of the Travel Promotion Act on Hotel Firm Stock Returns

On March 4, 2010, President Obama signed into law the Travel Promotion Act of 2010 (TPA), which established a public–private corporation to promote travel to the United States. Results from a survey of twenty financial analysts who follow the hospitality industry reveal that twelve of them considered TPA when analyzing hotel firms’ value at the time the law was signed. Two others had already revised their value assessment in 2009 when they first heard that the act was being considered. These analysts all believed that TPA would have a positive impact on firms in the hotel industry. Consistent with the analysts’ expectations, abnormal stock market returns indicate that publicly traded hotel firm stock prices increased by approximately 1.93 percent, on average, at the time of the TPA signing. Results of cross-sectional analyses of the abnormal stock returns indicate that hotel firms with a larger proportion of rooms in the upper chain-scale tier benefited more from TPA, and real estate investment trusts (RE...
Dexmedetomidine for awake fiberoptic intubation in a parturient with spinal muscular atrophy type III for cesarean delivery.

Abstract Spinal muscular atrophy in pregnancy is rare and poses multiple problems for the anesthesiologist. The effects of dexmedetomidine on a parturient with spinal muscular atrophy have not previously been reported. There are also no in vivo data on placental transfer of dexmedetomidine and its effects on a human neonate. We report the hemodynamic, respiratory and sedative effects of dexmedetomidine on a parturient and neonate when used for awake fiberoptic intubation before cesarean section. A 35-year-old, gravida 4 para 0 aborta 3, 41-kg parturient at 35 weeks of gestation with spinal muscular atrophy presented for cesarean section. Dexmedetomidine was administered intravenously, total dose 1.84μg/kg over 38 minutes, followed by fiberoptic endotracheal intubation. Dexmedetomidine was then discontinued and general anesthesia was induced. The baby was delivered 68 minutes after the dexmedetomidine infusion was discontinued at which time blood samples were obtained for measurement of dexmedetomidine. During administration of dexmedetomidine, maternal heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation remained stable. Apgar scores at 1 and 5min were 6 and 8. The fetal concentration of dexmedetomidine (540pg/mL) indicates significant placental transfer, but significant adverse neonatal effects were not observed. Dexmedetomidine alone provided adequate sedation for awake intubation without respiratory compromise in this patient.
Estradiol decreases taurine level by reducing cysteine sulfinic acid decarboxylase via the estrogen receptor-α in female mice liver.

Cysteine sulfinic acid decarboxylase (CSAD) and cysteine dioxygenase (CDO) are two rate-limiting enzymes in taurine de novo synthesis, and their expressions are associated with estrogen concentrati...
Multiple Organ Failure: A Common Problem in Surgical Intensive Care Unit Patients

The management of the surgical patient with multiple system organ failure remains a formidable problem. Despite advances in critical care, the mortality of multiple organ failure remains unchanged since the syndrome was characterized almost two decades ago. At the present time there are no modalities that can actively reverse established organ failure, hence the treatment of these patients consists of metabolic and haemodynamic support until the process reverses itself or death occurs. Therefore, the best management of the surgical patient at risk for multiple organ failure is prevention of the syndrome. Strategies to avoid organ failure include early fixation of long bone fractures, prompt restoration of perfusion and oxygen delivery, the aggressive diagnosis and drainage of abdominal infection prior to organ failure, early institution of enteral nutrition and the use of specific nutritional substrates and formulas. This review will examine the current theories in the pathogenesis of multiple organ failure and detail two clinical decisions, early stabilization of fractures and prompt re-exploration for suspected abdominal sepsis, that have been associated with a reduction in the frequency of the development of organ failure.
Exploring architectural robotics with the human hive

We present an activity we developed to demonstrate bottom-up form construction, the human hive. Participants team up to construct a hive structure from large interlocking cardboard blocks. Each participant is given a visual rule that describes where new cells should be added to the hive. The design of these rules guides the form of the structure that emerges from this uncoordinated activity. Bottom-up, distributed methods for specifying physical forms and behaviors are central to the emerging field of architectural robotics that deals with designing objects composed of self-reconfiguring materials.
Protection of telomeres 1 is required for telomere integrity in the moss Physcomitrella patens

In vertebrates, the single-stranded telomeric DNA binding protein Protection of Telomeres 1 (POT1) shields chromosome ends and prevents them from eliciting a DNA damage response. By contrast, Arabidopsis thaliana encodes two divergent full-length POT1 paralogs that do not exhibit telomeric DNA binding in vitro and have evolved to mediate telomerase regulation instead of chromosome end protection. To further investigate the role of POT1 in plants, we established the moss Physcomitrella patens as a new model for telomere biology and a counterpoint to Arabidopsis. The sequence and architecture of the telomere tract is similar in P. patens and Arabidopsis, but P. patens harbors only a single-copy POT1 gene. Unlike At POT1 proteins, Pp POT1 efficiently bound single-stranded telomeric DNA in vitro. Deletion of the P. patens POT1 gene resulted in the rapid onset of severe developmental defects and sterility. Although telomerase activity levels were unperturbed, telomeres were substantially shortened, harbored extended G-overhangs, and engaged in end-to-end fusions. We conclude that the telomere capping function of POT1 is conserved in early diverging land plants but is subsequently lost in Arabidopsis.
Contribution of NADPH Oxidase to Membrane CD38 Internalization and Activation in Coronary Arterial Myocytes

The CD38-ADP-ribosylcyclase-mediated Ca2+ signaling pathway importantly contributes to the vasomotor response in different arteries. Although there is evidence indicating that the activation of CD38-ADP-ribosylcyclase is associated with CD38 internalization, the molecular mechanism mediating CD38 internalization and consequent activation in response to a variety of physiological and pathological stimuli remains poorly understood. Recent studies have shown that CD38 may sense redox signals and is thereby activated to produce cellular response and that the NADPH oxidase isoform, NOX1, is a major resource to produce superoxide (O2·−) in coronary arterial myocytes (CAMs) in response to muscarinic receptor agonist, which uses CD38-ADP-ribosylcyclase signaling pathway to exert its action in these CAMs. These findings led us hypothesize that NOX1-derived O2·− serves in an autocrine fashion to enhance CD38 internalization, leading to redox activation of CD38-ADP-ribosylcyclase activity in mouse CAMs. To test this hypothesis, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry and a membrane protein biotinylation assay were used in the present study. We first demonstrated that CD38 internalization induced by endothelin-1 (ET-1) was inhibited by silencing of NOX1 gene, but not NOX4 gene. Correspondingly, NOX1 gene silencing abolished ET-1-induced O2·− production and increased CD38-ADP-ribosylcyclase activity in CAMs, while activation of NOX1 by overexpression of Rac1 or Vav2 or administration of exogenous O2·− significantly increased CD38 internalization in CAMs. Lastly, ET-1 was found to markedly increase membrane raft clustering as shown by increased colocalization of cholera toxin-B with CD38 and NOX1. Taken together, these results provide direct evidence that Rac1-NOX1-dependent O2·− production mediates CD38 internalization in CAMs, which may represent an important mechanism linking receptor activation with CD38 activity in these cells.
Development, characterization and integration of a novel boron nitride process for application as a Cu diffusion barrier

The properties of boron nitride (BN) films cyclically-deposited by means of PECVD have been studied. Cyclical deposition is critical to improve the density and reduce the k of the material. When compared to conventional SiCN barriers, this material demonstrates greatly reduced leakage, superior mechanical properties and better etch selectivity. Therefore, BN is a promising candidate as a low k dielectric copper barrier and etch stop.
The Impact of Socially Constructed Knowledge on Drug Policy

Examining illicit drug policy is a twofold task. One aspect involves understanding illicit drug use, and the other addresses changing behavior through public policy. These two aspects of drug policy must be distinguished, as success in one does not necessarily imply success in the other—and because success in both is necessary for any overall success in achieving effective policies regarding the management of illicit drug use.
Analysis of Signal Propagation Through TSVs Within Distilled Water for Liquid-Cooled Microsystems

This paper analyzes the impact of liquid cooling on the electrical characteristics of through-silicon vias (TSVs) using a microfluidic cooling testbed containing TSVs. The microfabrication of TSVs in a silicon micropin-fin heat sink is presented, and the high-frequency characterization of TSVs within a micropin-fin heat sink using distilled water is performed from 10 MHz to 20 GHz. TSV capacitance and conductance are extracted from measurements; TSVs within distilled water have larger capacitance and conductance than TSVs in silicon due to the lossy characteristics of distilled water at high frequencies. A coaxial-like TSV configuration, which consists of multiple ground TSVs surrounding a center signal TSV, is proposed and demonstrated to shield signal TSVs from the coolant.
Constitutive and LPS-induced expression of MCP-1 and IL-8 by human uveal melanocytes in vitro and relevant signal pathways.

Purpose Melanocytes are one of the major cellular components in the uvea. Interleukin-8/CXCL8 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1/CCL2) are the two most important proinflammatory chemokines. We studied the constitutive and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced expression of IL-8 and MCP-1 in cultured human uveal melanocytes (UM) and explored the relevant signal pathways. Methods Conditioned media and cells were collected from UM cultured in medium with and without stimulation of LPS. Interleukin-8 and MCP-1 proteins and mRNAs were measured using an ELISA kit and RT-PCR, respectively. Nuclear factor (NF)-κB in nuclear extracts and phosphorylated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), extracellular signal-regulated kinases1/2 (ERK1/2), and c-Jun N-terminal kinase1/2 (JNK1/2) in cells cultured with and without LPS were measured by ELISA kits. Inhibitors of p38 (SB203580), ERK1/2 (UO1026), JNK1/2 (SP600125), and NF-κB (BAY11-7082) were added to the cultures to evaluate their effects. Results Low levels of IL-8 and MCP-1 proteins were detected in the conditioned media in UM cultured without serum. Lipopolysaccharide (0.01-1 μg/mL) increased IL-8 and MCP-1 mRNAs and proteins levels in a dose- and time-dependent manner, accompanied by a significant increase of phosphorylated JNK1/2 in cell lysates and NF-κB in nuclear extracts. Nuclear factor-κB and JNK1/2 inhibitors significantly blocked LPS-induced expression of IL-8 and MCP-1. Conclusions This is the first report on the expression and secretion of chemokines by UM. The data suggest that UM may play a role in the pathogenesis of ocular inflammatory diseases.
Inhibitory effect of carcinogenic aromatic hydrocarbons on transformation of 3T3 cells by SV 40.

SummaryThe carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons 7,12-dimethylbenz[α] anthracene (0.0005 μg/ml) and 3-methylcholanthrene (0.005 μg/ml) did not have a toxic effect on the plating efficiency of 3T3 cells. The number of SV 40-transformed clones of 3T3 cells was decreased when these carcinogens were added 24 hr after virus inoculation and were in contact with the cells for 7 days. However, there was no effect when the carcinogens were in contact with the cells for 48 hr before or for 3 hr immediately after virus inoculation. No direct effect of the carcinogens on the infectivity of SV 40 was observed when the virus was incubated with from 0.002 to 200 μg/ml of the carcinogens and subsequently titered in the BSC-1 cell line. These findings confirm in vitro for another oncogenic virus the previously described inhibitory effect of these carcinogens on Friend and Rauscher virus leukemias. The most likely explanation seems to be an effect of the carcinogens on the synthesis of cellular DNA during the perio...
Counselling: An Introduction

The author discusses the origins, background and context of counselling, and shows how its roots differ from those of the other main psychological helping sources. She then expands on one particula...