cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Entanglement of a double dot with a quantum point contact

Entanglement between particle and detector is known to be inherent in the measurement process. Gurvitz recently analyzed the coupling of an electron in a double dot (DD) to a quantum point contact (QPC) detector. In this paper we examine the dynamics of entanglement that result between the DD and QPC. The rate of entanglement is optimized as a function of coupling when the electron is initially in one of the dots. It decreases asymptotically towards zero with increased coupling. The opposite behavior is observed when the DD is initially in a superposition: the rate of entanglement increases unboundedly as the coupling is increased. The possibility that there are conditions for which measurement occurs versus entanglement is considered.
Transformations of spirogermabifluorene upon reduction with alkali metals

Abstract Spirogermabifluorene (C24H16Ge, 1) and the anionic products of its reduction with alkali metals were prepared and investigated by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. A monoanionic intermediate product of the reduction, formed upon the cleavage of a Ge–C bond and proton abstraction from the solvent, was isolated in the form of the cesium salt, [Cs+(diglyme)(C12H8GeC12H9−)] (2). Structural investigation of 2 revealed the presence of a tricoordinated germanium center and complexation of the cesium cation by two aromatic moieties. The reduction of 1 with an excess of alkali metals leads to the cleavage of the second Ge–C bond with subsequent elimination of biphenyl to give the C12H8Ge2− dianion which was crystallized as the sodium adduct, [{Na+(THF)}2(C12H8Ge2−)] (3). The structural elucidation for complex 3 shows η3- and η5-coordinations of the sodium ions to the π-system of dianions. The resulting Na⋯C and Na⋯Ge contacts along with the Na⋯OTHF interactions lead to the formation of the zigzag polymeric chains in the crystal lattice of 3.
Distinguishing Amyloid Fibril Structures in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) by Two-Dimensional Ultraviolet (2DUV) Spectroscopy

Understanding the aggregation mechanism of amyloid fibrils and characterizing their structures are important steps in the investigation of several neurodegenerative disorders associated with the misfolding of proteins. We report a simulation study of coherent two-dimensional chiral signals of three NMR structures of Aβ protein fibrils associated with Alzheimer's Disease, two models for Aβ(8-40) peptide wild-type (WT) and one for the Iowa (D23N) Aβ(15-40) mutant. Both far-ultraviolet (FUV) signals (λ = 190-250 nm), which originate from the backbone nπ* and ππ* transitions, and near-ultraviolet (NUV) signals (λ ≥ 250 nm) associated with aromatic side chains (Phe and Tyr) show distinct cross-peak patterns that can serve as novel signatures for the secondary structure.
ELECTRON-ELECTRON SCATTERING AT 500 MEV

The electron-electron differentiai scattering cross section has been measured with the use of a 500-Mev electron beam from the Stanford Mark III linear electron accelerator. Deviations were sought from the theoretical cross section as calculated in first-order perturbation theory (Moller scattering). The experimental results were compared with the Moller formula as corrected to the next order in perturbation theory by the work of Tsai. Atomic electrons in a beryllium target foil constituted the target for the electron-electron scattering. The scattered electrons passed through a slit system which defined the angle of scattering and the solid angle. After the particles passed through the slit system, they entered a double-focusing magnetic spectrometer, which analyzed the scattered particles in momentum. The electrons emerging from the spectrometer were detected by a liquid Cerenkov counter. The incident beam was monitored with the use of a Faraday cup and an electronic current integrator. In order to enhance the accuracy of the experiment, the experimental electron-electron scattering was compared to the elastic electron scattering from the target nuclei (Mott scattering). The cross section was measured at approximately 2.6, 3.5 and 4.5 degrees in the laboratory system. These angles correspond to approximately 90, 107, and 120 deg inmore » the center-of-mass system respectively, The theoretical magnitude of the radiative corrections is -5.5, -4.9, and --4.9% for the scattering angles 2.6, 3.5, and 4.5 deg respectively. The average experimental deviation from the Moller formula found for the above angles was --3.0 ( plus or minus 2.3)%, -3.5 ( plus or minus 2.9)%, and --5.9 ( plus or minus 2.3)%, respectively, where the error cited is total statistical error. In addition to the statistical error there is a maximum estimated plus or minus 2% possible systematic error. (auth)« less
Optimal Participation of Wind Power in the Liberalized Power Market

Abstract While installing wind power into the liberalized power market can reduce the operation and fuel costs of the power system, it also increases the imbalance cost and need for reserve. Due to this contradictory, there is a need for planning the amount of wind power in the power system. This paper proposes a model following American power market rules to find the optimal participation of wind power. This model assumes that wind power producer can bid into both day-ahead and real-time market and pay imbalance cost due to wind power prediction errors. A case study will be presented where the proposed model will be tested with simulation results on a practical power system.
Immunohistochemical study of epiretinal membranes in patients with uveitis

Background The purpose of this study is to report two cases of idiopathic uveitis with secondary epiretinal membrane (ERM) formation in order to describe histologic and immunohistochemical features that may help distinguish uveitic from idiopathic ERMs.
Recognition of generalized markoff processes and application to electrocardiography

Abstract The observed sequence of electrocardiographic R-R intervals have been analyzed by appropriate linear and nonlinear Markoff processes. Recent investigations by the authors have shown that appropriate comprehensive descriptions of the models are provided only by generalized or multi-step Markoff processes. In this paper the problem of recognizing sequences of states in a generalized Markoff process model is discussed and solutions provided.
Phosphorylation by the c-Abl protein tyrosine kinase inhibits parkin's ubiquitination and protective function

Mutations in PARK2/Parkin, which encodes a ubiquitin E3 ligase, cause autosomal recessive Parkinson disease (PD). Here we show that the nonreceptor tyrosine kinase c-Abl phosphorylates tyrosine 143 of parkin, inhibiting parkin's ubiquitin E3 ligase activity and protective function. c-Abl is activated by dopaminergic stress and by dopaminergic neurotoxins, 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP(+)) in vitro and in vivo by 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), leading to parkin inactivation, accumulation of the parkin substrates aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase-interacting multifunctional protein type 2 (AIMP2) (p38/JTV-1) and fuse-binding protein 1 (FBP1), and cell death. STI-571, a c-Abl-family kinase inhibitor, prevents the phosphorylation of parkin, maintaining parkin in a catalytically active and protective state. STI-571's protective effects require parkin, as shRNA knockdown of parkin prevents STI-571 protection. Conditional knockout of c-Abl in the nervous system also prevents the phosphorylation of parkin, the accumulation of its substrates, and subsequent neurotoxicity in response to MPTP intoxication. In human postmortem PD brain, c-Abl is active, parkin is tyrosine-phosphorylated, and AIMP2 and FBP1 accumulate in the substantia nigra and striatum. Thus, tyrosine phosphorylation of parkin by c-Abl is a major posttranslational modification that inhibits parkin function, possibly contributing to pathogenesis of sporadic PD. Moreover, inhibition of c-Abl may be a neuroprotective approach in the treatment of PD.
Carnivore‐Livestock Conflicts: Effects of Subsidized Predator Control and Economic Correlates on the Sheep Industry

Abstract: Despite the importance of carnivores in terrestrial ecosystems, many nations have implemented well-coordinated, state-funded initiatives to remove predators, largely because of conflicts with humans over livestock. Although these control efforts have been successful in terms of the number of carnivores removed, their effects on the viability of the industries they seek to protect are less understood. I assessed the efficacy of long-term efforts by the U.S. government to improve the viability of the sheep industry by reducing predation losses. I used regression analysis and hierarchical partitioning of a 60-year data set to explore associations among changes in sheep numbers and factors such as predator control effort, market prices, and production costs. In addition, I compared trends in the sheep industry in the western United States, where predator control is subsidized and coyotes (Canis latrans) are abundant, with trends in eastern states that lack federally subsidized predator control and that were (1) colonized by coyotes before 1950 or (2) colonized by coyotes between 1950 and 1990. Although control efforts were positively correlated with fluctuations in sheep numbers, production costs and market prices explained most of the model variation, with a combined independent contribution of 77%. Trends in sheep numbers in eastern and western states were highly correlated (r ≥0.942) independent of the period during which they were colonized by coyotes, indicating either that control has been ineffective at reducing predation losses or that factors other than predation account for the declines in both regions. These results suggest that government-subsidized predator control has failed to prevent the decline in the sheep industry and alternative support mechanisms need to be developed if the goal is to increase sheep production and not simply to kill carnivores.
Automatic tympanometry in clinical practice.

The probe tone of an impedance bridge has a direct effect on the results of tympanometry. The frequency of the probe tone should be close to the resonant frequency of the middle ear. Of three electro-acoustic bridges using three different probe tones, i.e. 800, 625 and 220 Hz, the one using 800 Hz provided the most indentifiable tympanographic pattern incases with ossicular discontinuity. Five different types of tympanograms could be indentified when an 800 Hz tone is usedThe stapedius reflex thresholds, on the other hand, show only minor differences with different probe tone frequenciesImportant clinical information can be obtained by combining the type of tympanogram with the results of stapedius reflex measurements
Stochastic channel simulator based on local scattering functions

This letter addresses the limitations of the stochastic channel simulation approach employed in wireless channels when directly applied to underwater channels. First it is shown analytically why the simulation method fails when the correlated taps each have a different Doppler spectrum. Then, based on the idea of local scattering functions, we propose a simple solution to the problem of simulating a channel with correlated taps where the correlated taps occur in subgroups with each of the subgroups having a different Doppler spectrum, applicable to underwater channels. Our simulation approach is tested successfully on the KAM08 channel.
Differential Diagnosis Generators: an Evaluation of Currently Available Computer Programs

Background Differential diagnosis (DDX) generators are computer programs that generate a DDX based on various clinical data.
Teaching strategies for the elderly.

In the day to day process of implementing treatment with the elderly, occupational and physical therapists consistently function as educators. It is therefore important for them to be knowledgeable...
Competitiveness of Sperm in Female Fall Armyworms Mating with Normal and Chemosterilized Males

Female Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) were allowed to mate sequentially with chemosterilized (tepa) and fertile males to study sperm competition. The mating of a fertile male with a female previously mated to a sterile male eliminated the effect of the earlier mating. In the reverse combination, i.e., the last mating with a sterile male, average viability of eggs was reduced 50%. Individual females tended to exhibit an “all or nothing” response in egg viability.
Migration, Benefit Spillovers and State Support of Higher Education

This paper tests the hypothesis that benefit spillovers from public higher educationproxied by out-niigration-led to lower higher education appropriations by state legislatures. A model addressing legislative appropriations, tuition and out-migration activity is developed and estimated. The results support the benefit spillover hypothesis, indicating that for each percentage point increase in out-migration, appropriations per student decline by $100. The results also reveal a bi-directional relationship between tuition and state appropriations. This is in contrast with the view that tuition is a 'residual' source of revenue representing the difference between the institutional budgets endorsed by educational policy-makers and the level of state appropriations.
Stage-specific expression and localization of MENT, a nuclear protein associated with chromatin condensation in terminally differentiating avian erythroid cells

Abstract Polyclonal antibodies have been raised against a nonhistone protein (MENT) which has been previously shown to be associated with the repressed chromatin of mature chicken erythrocytes and to promote the in vitro condensation of chromatin of immature erythrocyte nuclei. Here we report that the expression pattern of MENT closely follows chromatin condensation in maturing arian erythrocytes of definitive and primary lineages. Accumulation of MENT correlates more strongly with chromatin condensation than does accumulation of histone H5. In addition to being present in erythrocytes, the protein was also found in neutrophil nuclei and an immunofluorescence reaction was observed with embryonic (nucleated) thrombocytes. MENT was not detected in other chicken tissues (brain, liver, testis). In intact erythrocytes, MENT immunofluorescence was found in foci close to the nuclear periphery, while in isolated, decondensed nuclei, the fluorescence signal was uniformly distributed. In neutrophil nuclei, containing approximately 10 times more MENT than adult erythrocytes, intense staining associated with the peripheral heterochromatin was observed. These findings are discussed in regard to a possible mechanism for chromatin condensation by MENT.
Human aspects of internet services: considering the needs of users and providers

This paper discusses the need and possible forms of human interfaces to Internet services, challenging the common notion that Internet services are simply computer-computer systems governed by machine protocols with little need of concern for human issues. We first examine the case where Internet services are provided to human users, showing that the user-system interaction becomes a typical service relationship, which can be better understood in the framework of Service Science. Based on the six basic characteristics of services we explore 15 issues which should be taken in account when designing human interfaces for Internet services. We also depart from traditional HCI by arguing that the fundamental goal of the human interface of an Internet service is to create and maintain a relationship with the user. We then look into Internet services being used by computer applications, where we discuss the need of a backdoor human interface for the maintenance and control people working in the Internet service provision system. Both situations have been little explored by the Internet services or the HCI fields of research.
Vibration of Nonlinear Systems Under Additive and Multiplicative Random Excitations

Exact probabilistic solutions in the stationary state are obtained for some nonlinear systems under the excitations of Gaussian white noises. The excitation can be additive, appearing in the inhomogeneous terms in the equations, or multiplicative, appearing in the coefficients for the unknowns. The possibility for different systems sharing an identical probabilistic solution is pointed out.
Role of N-methyltransferases in the neurotoxicity associated with the metabolites of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) and other 4-substituted pyridines present in the environment

Amine N-methyltransferases in the brains of humans, monkeys, mice, rabbits and rats, as well as two homogeneous enzymes isolated from rabbit liver, are capable of N-methylating 4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine to 1-methyl-4-phenyltetrahydropyridine (MPTP), and 4-phenylpyridine to 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ion (MPP+). The product in each instance is a neurotoxin. The suggestion is offered that the known long half-life of methylpyridinium compounds in brain may be due to limitations in transport of such charged metabolites out of this tissue and to metabolic recycling of the desmethyl species by amine N-methyltransferases. The methylation of pyridines to quaternary amines is suggested as a means by which lipophilic compounds, having gained entrance to the cell, are converted to charged species that efflux much less readily.
Deoxyribonucleic acid ploidy and S-phase fraction are not significant prognostic factors for patients with cervical cancer.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: Our purpose was to determine the usefulness of deoxyribonucleic acid ploidy and S-phase fraction as prognostic factors in patients with cervical cancer. STUDY DESIGN: Paraffin-embedded tumor specimens were obtained from 123 patients with cervical cancer (mean age 51 years, range 21 to 87 years). The mean follow-up period was 6.4 years. Deoxyribonucleic acid ploidy and S-phase fraction were determined by flow cytometry. RESULTS: A total of 119 patients were evaluable for deoxyribonucleic acid ploidy and 92 were evaluable for S-phase fraction. The overall rate of deoxyribonucleic acid aneuploidy was 60%, and the median S-phase fraction was 12.5%. Neither factor was significantly related to stage of disease. In univariate survival analyses patients with deoxyribonucleic acid aneuploid tumors had slightly better early survival than did patients with deoxyribonucleic acid diploid tumors (median survivals 2.7 and 1.4 years, respectively, p = 0.08 [Wilcoxon]), but the overall survival was not significantly different, p = 0.37 (log-rank). In multivariate analyses deoxyribonucleic acid ploidy was not a significant predictor of survival. S-phase fraction was not statistically significant in either analysis. CONCLUSION: Deoxyribonucleic acid ploidy and S-phase fraction are not useful prognostic factors for patients with cervical cancer.
Orienting deformable polygonal parts without sensors

Sensorless part orienting has proven useful in manufacturing and automation, while the manipulation of deformable objects is an area of growing interest. Existing sensorless orienting techniques may produce forces which have the potential to damage deformable parts. We present an algorithm that, when provided a geometric description of the part and a deformation model, generates a plan to orient the part up to symmetry from any initial orientation. The solution exploits deformation of the object under certain configurations to help resolve ambiguity. The approach has several attractive features: (1) the resulting plan is a short sequence of such actions guaranteed to succeed for all initial configurations; (2) the algorithm operates even with a very simple model of deformation, but is extensible when specialized knowledge is available; (3) failure to find a feasible solution has precise semantics (e.g., inadequate manipulator precision). We validate the algorithm experimentally with a pair of low-precision robot manipulators, orienting 6 parts made of 4 types of materials, with the correct orientation being reached on 80% of the 192 trials. Careful analysis of the failures emphasizes the importance of low-friction conditions, that increased manipulator precision would be beneficial but is not necessary, and a simple deformation model can suffice. In addition to illustrating the feasibility of sensorless manipulation of deformable parts, we note that the algorithm has applications to manipulation of non-deformable parts without the pressure switch sensor employed in existing sensorless orienting strategies.
Amebic abscess of the liver communicating with bile ducts

A patient with amebic abscess of the liver is reported to point out (1) that the fluorescent antibody inhibition test can be a valuable diagnostic aid: (2) that invasion of the biliary tree by the abscess can be documented by air-contrast roentgenogram but shows no demonstrable abnormality on the intravenous cholangiogram; and (3) that simple therapeutic measures can result in dramatic clinical improvement.
Developmental psychopathology and neurobiology of Tourette's syndrome.

ABSTRACT Objective The authors present a model of the developmental psychopathology and neurobiology of Tourette's syndrome that provides a framework for ongoing research and treatment. Method The model is based on clinical experience and a selective review of relevant scientific literature. Results During the past decade, Tourette's syndrome and related conditions have emerged as model disorders to study the interplay of genetic, neurobiological, psychological, and environmental factors during development. Although prevention and treatment are paramount, the effectiveness of these interventions depends on the quality and extent of our knowledge. Programmatic research combined with sustained clinical care has led to advances in our knowledge of the natural history of these disorders over the course of development and glimpses of the pathophysiologic and psychopathological mechanisms that mediate their expression in vulnerable persons. Conclusions In the future, we expect that our understanding will extend from the molecular level of how specific genes and epigenetic factors confer and mediate vulnerability to an understanding of why certain symptoms emerge when they do in the course of central nervous system development.
Novel Human α9 Acetylcholine Receptor Regulating Keratinocyte Adhesion is Targeted by Pemphigus Vulgaris Autoimmunity

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a potentially fatal autoimmune mucocutaneous blistering disease. It was assumed that PV is caused by anti-desmoglein (Dsg) 3 autoimmunity because absorption of PV sera with a chimeric baculoprotein containing the Dsg 3 and IgG1 portions, rDsg3-Ig-His , eliminated disease-causing antibodies. In this study we demonstrate that rDsg3-Ig-His adsorbs out autoantibodies to different keratinocyte antigens, including a non-Dsg 3 130-kd polypeptide. Because the pool of disease-causing PV IgGs contains antibodies against the keratinocyte acetylcholine receptor (AChR), we sought to identify the targeted receptor(s). Preincubation of monkey esophagus with PV antibodies blocked specific staining of the keratinocyte cell membrane with rabbit monoepitopic antibody to α9 AChR, indicating that this first of its kind AChR with dual, muscarinic and nicotinic pharmacology is targeted by PV autoimmunity. Anti-α9 antibody stained keratinocytes in a fishnet-like intercellular pattern, and visualized a single band at ∼50 kd in Western blots of keratinocyte membrane proteins. Using step-by-step reverse transcription polymerase chain reactions with primers based on known α9 sequence regions, we identified the complete reading frame of human α9. Its amino acid sequence showed 85% similarity with rat α9. Treatment of keratinocyte monolayers with anti-α9 antibody induced pemphigus-like acantholysis, which could be reversed either spontaneously or by using the cholinergic agonist carbachol. We conclude that α9 is coupled to physiological regulation of keratinocyte adhesion, and its interaction with PV IgG may lead to blister development.
FORCED OSCILLATIONS OF A CLASS OF NONLINEAR DISPERSIVE WAVE EQUATIONS AND THEIR STABILITY

It has been observed in laboratory experiments that when nonlinear dispersive waves are forced periodically from one end of undisturbed stretch of the medium of propagation, the signal eventually becomes temporally periodic at each spatial point. The observation has been confirmed mathematically in the context of the damped Korteweg-de Vries (KdV) equation and the damped Benjamin-Bona-Mahony (BBM) equation. In this paper we intend to show the same results hold for the pure KdV equation (without the damping terms) posed on a finite domain. Consideration is given to the initial-boundary-value problem $$\left\{ {\begin{aligned} & u_t +u_x =uu_x + & u_{xxx} =0,\quad u\left( {x,0} \right)=\phi (x),\quad & 0 0, \\ & u(0,t)=h(t),\quad & u(1,t)=0,\quad u_x (1,t)=0,\quad & t> 0. \\ \end{aligned}} \right.$$ (*) It is shown that if the boundary forcing h is periodic with small ampitude, then the small amplitude solution u of (*) becomes eventually time-periodic. Viewing (*) (without the initial condition) as an infinite-dimensional dynamical system in the Hilbert space L2 (0,1), we also demonstrate that for a given periodic boundary forcing with small amplitude, the system (*) admits a (locally) unique limit cycle, or forced oscillation, which is locally exponentially stable. A list of open problems are included for the interested readers to conduct further investigations.
Elucidation of the correlation between atomic-level defects in GaN nanoparticles and photoluminescence properties by NMR, XRD and TEM

Abstract We present evidence from X-ray diffraction data that chemical shift changes observed in the 71Ga nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum of polycrystalline 15N-labeled GaN originate from crystal structure defects on the nearest neighbor atomic-level and are unlikely to be due to electronic effects from conduction band electrons (Knight shift). Nuclear magnetic resonance data (15N and 71Ga) suggests that these structural defects are caused by nitrogen-deficiency of the material. For Ga15N prepared by the reaction of 15N-labeled ammonia with different gallium precursors we observe a strong correlation between band edge related photoluminescence and the presence of nitrogen-deficient material in the sample. Quenching of photoluminescence by structurally bound protons has been observed by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
New insulin analogues and insulin delivery devices for the perioperative management of diabetic patients.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW With the rising incidence of diabetes mellitus in the United States today, more and more patients with this comorbidity will present for surgical or interventional procedures. Treatments are becoming more varied and complex so anesthesiologists must be familiar with new drugs and delivery modalities used in the treatment of this patient population. RECENT FINDINGS New types of insulin have revolutionized diabetic care. The introduction of rapid acting and long acting insulin has enabled more precise glucose control to be achieved. New delivery modes of insulin both by the inhaled/buccal route and premeasured pen have been introduced. The newer oral hypoglycemic agents are also in use and have mechanisms of action that differ from the older treatments. SUMMARY Anesthesiologists must keep themselves updated with the rapidly changing treatment options for diabetic patients with both type 1 and type 2 diseases. The mechanism of action and duration of newer drugs are important for clinicians to know when managing intraoperative serum glucose control.
A Coarse Grained Reconfigurable Architecture for Variable Block Size Motion Estimation

This paper proposes a novel application-specific coarsegrained reconfigurable architecture with a flexible network on chip (NoC) mechanism. This architecture supports variable block size motion estimation (VBSME) with much less resources than other architectures. The intelligent NoC router supports full search motion estimation algorithm as well as other fast search algorithms like diamond and hexagonal search. Our model is a hierarchical hybrid processing element based 2D architecture which supports reuse of search data between the processing elements with the help of NoC routers. Results show that the area occupied by the proposed architecture is about one-seventh of the area occupied by the state of the art ASIC implementation with comparable operational frequency to sustain 30fps.
Os, Sr, Nd, and Pb isotope systematics of southern African peridotite xenoliths: Implications for the chemical evolution of subcontinental mantle

Isotope analyses of Os, Sr, Nd, and Pb elements were caried out on twelve peridotite xenoliths from the Jagersfontein, Letseng-la-terae, Thaba Patsoa, Mothae, and Premier kimberlites of southern Africa, to investigate the timing and the nature of melt extraction from the continental lithosphere and its relation to the continent formation and stabilization. The distinct Os and Pb isotopic characteristics found in these samples suggested that both the low- and the high-temperature peridotites reside in an ancient stable lithospheric 'keel' to the craton that has been isolated from chemical exchange with the sublithospheric mantle for time periods in excess of 2 Ga.
Implementing randomized effectiveness trials in large insurance systems

Abstract Background The need to identify how best to structure health insurance and to deliver health care services is a central priority for comparative effectiveness research. Studies designed to evaluate these issues are frequently conducted in large insurance systems. We sought to describe the challenges faced when conducting trials in this context. Methods Using the Post-Myocardial Infarction Free Rx Event and Economic Evaluation (MI FREEE) trial as an example, we describe the methodological and practical challenges of conducting trials in large insurance systems. Results We encountered six key challenges while conducting MI FREEE trial, namely the need to obtain plan sponsor permission to experiment, the desire of plan sponsors to have all of their beneficiaries receive the same intervention, the inaccuracy of claims-based identification methods and the impact of claims lag on the timely enrollment of potentially eligible patients, the reluctance of patients to participate in insurance-based interventions and the potential need for informed consent, the frequent introduction of new cointerventions in real-world delivery systems, and the high rates of loss to follow-up because of insurance “churn.” We describe the approaches we used to overcome these challenges. Conclusions Studies in insurance settings are a powerful and necessary design for evaluating comparative effectiveness interventions. There are numerous strategies to address the potential logistical and methodological challenges that this research environment uniquely creates.
Rat meningeal and brain microvasculature pericytes co-express the vesicular glutamate transporters 2 and 3

Pericytes are small cells that are apposed to brain and meningeal microvasculature and control capillary contraction, thereby regulating local cerebral perfusion. Pericytes respond to exogenously applied glutamate in vitro and express metabotropic glutamate receptors. However, it is unclear if pericytes have the capacity to release glutamate. We therefore determined whether pericytes express vesicular glutamate transporters (VGLUTs), which are considered to be unambiguous markers of cells that use glutamate as an intercellular signaling molecule. Leptomeningeal and brain microvasculature-associated pericytes of the adult rat, as defined by the presence of NG2 proteoglycan, expressed both VGLUT2- and VGLUT3-immunoreactivity, but did not express VGLUT1. Consistent with the hypothesis that pericytes release glutamate, VGLUT2- and VGLUT3-immunoreactivities appeared to be localized to secretory vesicles. These results suggest that glutamate is released from pericytes of the leptomeninges and brain microvasculature, and demonstrate for the first time the co-localization of VGLUT2 and VGLUT3.
Pituitary-adrenal and thyroid effects on melatonin content of the rat pineal gland

Based on clinical findings of diminished nocturnal serum melatonin levels in affective illness, we hypothesized that alterations in the pituitary-adrenal or thyroid axes of the rat might alter the nocturnal rise of melatonin content of the pineal gland in that species. Two experiments were conducted to investigate these issues. In the first, rats were injected for nine days with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) or corticosterone, timed to accentuate and prolong the normal circadian corticosterone rise. Although both these treatments produced significant elevations of serum corticosterone, there was no difference in pineal melatonin content during the day or night from that measured in control rats. In the second experiment, hypothyroidism was induced in rats by thyroid-parathyroidectomy, and hyperthyroidism was produced by injection of triiodothyronine (T3) for nine days. Despite clear evidence of metabolic and endocrine effects of these thyroid manipulations, pineal melatonin content was not altered during the day or night. The nocturnal increase of melatonin may have been phase-advanced in the hypothyroid group, although the experiment was not designed to detect such a shift. There thus is no evidence from this study in the rat to suggest that diminished nocturnal melatonin production in affective illness might be due to associated alterations in the pituitary-adrenal or thyroid systems.
The production of haemorrhagic necrosis in the hamster cheek pouch by bacterial endotoxins and catecholamines.

THE demonstration of endotoxin activity in a number of indigenous oral bacteria (MERGENHAGEN, HAMPP and SCHERP, 1961) as well as the abundance of such organisms in the gingival crevice area (GIBBONS et al., 1963), suggest a possible role of endotoxin in the etiology of periodontal disease (SCHERP, 1962). Susceptibility of oral tissues to experimental pathological phenomena utilizing endotoxins has been demonstrated (Rrzzo and MERGENHAGEN, 1960). An experimental lesion employing endotoxins and catecholamines has been described by THOMAS (1956). Thomas reported that administration of epinephrine or norepinephrine locally in conjunction with either a systemic or local injection of small quantities of endotoxin produced haemorrhagic necrosis at the local site within 24 hr. The present study was undertaken to determine if this endotoxin-catecholamine lesion could be produced in oral tissues. Intraperitoneal administration of bacterial lipopolysaccharide was followed by local injection of catecholamines into the abdominal skin and cheek pouch of adult male golden hamsters. These bacterial endotoxins (Escherichia coli 0111 :B4, Bacto Lipopolysaccharide, Difco Laboratories, and Leptotrichiu buccalis, kindly supplied by Dr. Wilson de Araujo, Faculdade National de Odontologia, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil) which had been extracted by the phenol-water method, were suspended in 0.1 ml sterile pyrogen free saline and used for inoculations. Animals were anaesthetized by means of intraperitoneal injections of sodium pentobartitol for all intra-oral procedures. In order to test the necrotizing ability of each vasopressor, various concentrations of crystalline epinephrine (L-Adrenalin, Eastman Organic Chemicals) from 1000 pg/O*O5 ml to @Ol pg/O*O5 ml and norepinephrine (t_-Arterenol Bitartrate, General Biochemicals) from 100 pg/O*O5 ml to 0.01 pg/O*O5 ml dissolved in saline at constant volume were assayed for their ability to produce macroscopically visible alterations when injected submucosally in the pouch and intradermally in the skin. Such tested animals received l-3 hr previously 0.1 ml of saline intraperitoneally as a control for subsequent experiments. Epinephrine (1.0 pg) and norepinephrine (0.1 pg) did not
BCL-2 and BAX Protect Adult Mice from Lethal Sindbis Virus Infection but Do Not Protect Spinal Cord Motor Neurons or Prevent Paralysis

Cellular proteins that regulate apoptotic cell death can modulate the outcome of Sindbis virus (SV) encephalitis in mice. Both endogenous and overexpressed BCL-2 and BAX proteins protect newborn mice from fatal SV infection by blocking apoptosis in infected neurons. To determine the effects of these cellular factors on the course of infection in older animals, a more neurovirulent SV vector (dsNSV) was constructed from a viral strain that causes both prominent spinal cord infection with hind-limb paralysis and death in weanling mice. This vector has allowed assessment of the effects of BCL-2 and BAX on both mortality and paralysis in these hosts. Similar to newborn hosts, weanling mice infected with dsNSV encoding BCL-2 or BAX survived better than animals infected with control viruses. This finding indicates that BCL-2 and BAX both protect neurons that mediate host survival. Neither cellular factor, however, could suppress the development of hind-limb paralysis or prevent the degeneration of motor neurons in the lumbar spinal cord. Infection of BAX knockout mice with dsNSV demonstrated that endogenous BAX also enhances the survival of animals but has no effect on paralysis. These findings for the spinal cord are consistent with earlier data showing that dying lumbar motor neurons do not exhibit an apoptotic morphology. Thus, divergent cell death pathways are activated in different target populations of neurons during neurovirulent SV infection of weanling mice.
Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in the Americas: a review of their interactions with the human population.

This paper describes the significant changes in the relation between "Aedes aegvpti" mosquitoes and the human population in the America from the 1800s to the present. 1st the history of the arrival of the mosquito the consequent epidemics of yellow fever and dengue and the eventual implication of the mosquito as vector is described. 2nd the Pan American Health Organizations "Aedes aegypti" Eradication Program is discussed and the potential threat to the Americas of development of the denuge hemorrhagic fever/dengue shock syndrome (DHF/DSS) is emphasized. In addition to health problems dengue epidemics wreak considerable economic damage. Moreover war and other serious social upheavals play a critical role in reinfestation by "A. aegypti" by destroying the political and social mechanisms which allow public health surveillance and mosquito eradication programs and by creating favorable breeding sites. 3rd the limited efforts of the US to control its "A. aegypti" population which has serious implications for the success of the control of the species in the rest of the Americas are commented upon. The US eradication program id not begin until 1965 after years of urging by Latin American countries who felt the US reprensented a constant threat of reinfestation. The program was then dropped in 1969 with little explanation for the change in policy other than lack of funds. Politics and economics in addition to the state of biomedical knowledge have a sgnificant impact on the relationship between the mosquito and human populations in the Western hemisphere.
Hemodynamics of Ruptured and Unruptured Cerebral Aneurysms

Because the prognosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage due to the rupture of a cerebral aneurysm is very poor, preventive surgery or endovascular interventions are performed on most aneurysms. However, the risk of the interventions can outweigh the natural risk of rupture of unruptured aneurysms. Therefore, it would be highly beneficial if the risk of rupture of cerebral aneurysms could be reliably determined in order to treat only those aneurysms at higher risk. Current assessment of aneurysm rupture risk is based on geometric parameters such as size and aspect ratio. But, it is known that small aneurysms also rupture. Previous studies have suggested the use of computational models to identify hemodynamic characteristics that could be used to better assess the rupture risk of cerebral aneurysms [1]. The current study extends these previous analyses to a larger population sample and quantitative hemodynamic variables.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
VERY LATE STENT THROMBOSIS WITH BARE METAL STENTS COMPARED TO DRUG ELUTING STENTS AFTER PRIMARY PERCUTANEOUS CORONARY INTERVENTION FOR ST-SEGMENT ELEVATION MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION: A META ANALYSIS OF PROSPECTIVE CLINICAL TRIALS

Controversy persists regarding the incidence of very late stent thrombosis (VLST) with bare metal stents (BMS) compared to drug eluting stents (DES) after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). We performed a meta-analysis of
Ovine Bone Marrow Extracellular Matrix and Soluble Protein Extraction: Fetuin Amino Terminus Microheterogeneity

In this article, the authors describe a new method using phosphate-buffered saline for the initial extraction of extracellular matrix (ECM) and soluble proteins from hematologic tissues. Direct comparisons between this method and previously reported methods demonstrate superior total protein yields with the novel technique in a fraction of the time for these ovine hematologic tissues: bone marrow, marrow aspirate, spleen, liver, and blood. Analysis by onedimensional sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and silver staining demonstrate comparable protein patterns with this method and a previously reported method. This method also successfully extracts the ECM glycoproteins fibronectin and laminin as well as the proteoglycan, chondroitin sulfate from marrow. These findings are demonstrated by Western and dot blotting. Bone marrow ECM and soluble proteins extracted by the novel method stimulate myeloid progenitor growth in a methylcellulose assay. Using an assay for elastase inhibitory capacity, the authors demonstrate that α1-proteinase inhibitor, the principal inhibitor of neutrophil elastase, is present and that its activity is preserved in bone marrow samples extracted with this team’s method. In contrast, very low total protein yields are obtained with the method used previously to recover hemonectin, a rabbit bone marrow ECM granulocytic cytoadhesion molecule. This team’s novel procedure, which extracts ECM and soluble proteins from small samples of tissue in a rapid, efficient, and reproducible manner, greatly enhances the analysis of these proteins from tissue culture, animal, and human clinical samples. In addition, with purification by chromatofocusing chromatography and molecular sieving gel electrophoresis, N-terminal amino acid sequencing could be performed on a developmentally regulated marrow protein with biochemical properties similar to those of hemonectin and the plasma protein fetuin. The authors propose that this novel technique be used for the initial extraction of ECM and soluble proteins from hematologic tissues and that subsequent, definitive recovery of insoluble proteins be accomplished using previously reported, though less efficient, methods.
The kinetics and mechanisms of the HO2-NO2 reactions; the significance of peroxynitric acid formation in photochemical smog

Abstract Peroxynitric acid has been identified by Fourier transform, infrared, long-path spectroscopy as a product of the UV-irradiated dilute mixtures of HONO, CO, Nox in synthetic air at 24 ± 2°C. The characteristic peaks of this compound are identical to those observed by Niki, in irradiated Cl2, H2, NO2, air mixtures and Hanst, in irradiated Cl2, CH2O, NO2, air mixtures. The concentration of the reactants and products of the HONO, CO, NOx, air system have been determined as a function of irradiation time. The changes observed were computer simulated using a combination of thirty elementary reactions. The data suggests that both reactions (1) and (2) occur as a result of HO2-NO2 interactions in the gas phase: HO2 + NO2 a HONO + O2 (1); HO2 + NO2(+M) a HO2NO2(+M)(2). The data give the preliminary estimates: k1/k2 ≈0.7 ±0.4; k1/k3 ≈ 0.043 ± 0.02; k2/k3 ≈ 0.058 ± 0.02, where reaction (3) is: HO2 + NO a HO + NO2. These data and computer simulations of sunlight-irradiated, NOx, hydrocarbon, aldehyde-polluted atmospheres suggest that peroxynitric acid may be formed in urban atmospheres at rates which are comparable to those observed for peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN), and it is concluded that HO2NO2 may contribute to the “oxidant” found in these atmopheres.
Development of a coherent gradient-sensing tomographic interferometer for three-dimensional refractive index-based measurements

Non-invasive measurement of thermophysical properties such as temperature, density or concentration in a fluid medium remains a very challenging problem. Laser interferometry is one of many optical techniques employed for non-invasive measurement of refractive index field and can be used to provide information on the thermophysical properties in a convective fluid system. In conjunction with tomography, laser interferometry allows for a convenient full-field measurement in three dimensions. In the present paper, a novel interferometric technique known as coherent gradient-sensing (CGS) interferometry is combined with tomography to develop a powerful new tool for time-dependent three-dimensional (3-D) refractive index-based measurements in fluid-thermal systems. The paper discusses the design and layout of the instrument, which is currently under development, some preliminary results, and the necessary data reduction techniques to be employed. An error estimation of the instrument is also presented.
Effective diffusivity in partially blocked zeolite catalyst

Abstract Diffusivity in zeolites with partially blocked pores and its effect on reaction rates are studied here. A finite periodic lattice model with randomly blocked bonds is used to investigate the effect of pore blocking on zeolitic diffusion. Percolation theory and the technique of effective medium approximation (EMA) are employed to obtain the theoretical dependence of diffusivity on the fraction of blocked bonds. The prediction agrees well with stochastic computer simulation results. Different methods in measuring effective diffusivity, namely, the Wicke-Kallenbach cell, the transient adsorption experiment, and experiment under reactive conditions, are also studied theoretically and by stochastic computer simulations, and compared with classical continuum theory. It is shown that diffusivities obtained by different methods could have different values, depending upon the blocked fraction. The Wicke-Kallenbach method yields a lower bound for the effective diffusivity, while the transient method gives a time-dependent diffusivity, and the reactive diffusivity depends on the value of Thiele modulus. The physical significance of these differences are explained by the rate processes involved and the tortuous nature of the blocked crystals.