cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Carnitine metabolism during exercise in patients on chronic hemodialysis

Carnitine metabolism during exercise in patients on chronic hemodialysis. Patients on hemodialysis (HD) have impaired exercise performance. Carnitine homeostasis is also abnormal in this population. As carnitine is an important cofactor for muscle energy metabolism, exercise performance and skeletal muscle carnitine metabolism were characterized in eight HD patients, and in five age-matched controls. Each patient underwent graded bicycle exercise testing to define maximal performance, and prolonged exercise at 70% of their peak work capacity. Muscle (vastus lateralis) total carnitine content (carnitine plus all acylcarnitines) at rest was lower in HD patients than in controls (2320 ± 1190 vs. 3800 ± 940 nmol/g, P
The Glc7p Nuclear Phosphatase Promotes mRNA Export by Facilitating Association of Mex67p with mRNA

mRNA export is mediated by Mex67p:Mtr2p/NXF1:p15, a conserved heterodimeric export receptor that is thought to bind mRNAs through the RNA binding adaptor protein Yra1p/REF. Recently, mammalian SR (serine/arginine-rich) proteins were shown to act as alternative adaptors for NXF1-dependent mRNA export. Npl3p is an SR-like protein required for mRNA export in S. cerevisiae. Like mammalian SR proteins, Npl3p is serine-phosphorylated by a cytoplasmic kinase. Here we report that this phosphorylation of Npl3p is required for efficient mRNA export. We further show that the mRNA-associated fraction of Npl3p is unphosphorylated, implying a subsequent nuclear dephosphorylation event. We present evidence that the essential, nuclear phosphatase Glc7p promotes dephosphorylation of Npl3p in vivo and that nuclear dephosphorylation of Npl3p is required for mRNA export. Specifically, recruitment of Mex67p to mRNA is Glc7p dependent. We propose a model whereby a cycle of cytoplasmic phosphorylation and nuclear dephosphorylation of shuttling SR adaptor proteins regulates Mex67p:Mtr2p/NXF1:p15-dependent mRNA export.
Structure of ordered alloys

Recent progress in studying ordered alloys by lattice fringe imaging is reviewed. Firstly the optimum experimental conditions for producing images suitable for interpretation are outlined. Secondly lattice and conventional imaging are compared and the advantages of the former for obtaining atomic level detail and compositional estimates are described. Finally some important results from this program are discussed, particularly the evidence for a microdomain model of short-range order and the fine structure of various ordered lattice defects.
Some physiological responses of cotton leaves to foliar applications of potassium 3,4-dichloroisothiazole-5-carboxylate and S,S,S-tributyl phosphorotrithioate

The effects of foliar application of potassium 3,4-dichloroisothiazole-5-carboxylate (TD-1123) and S,S,S-tributyl phosphorotrithioate (DEF) on some physiological events that occur in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) leaves are reported. Transport of 14C from cotton leaves was significantly reduced as soon as 1 day after treatment with DEF. In addition the DEF-treated leaves exhibited reductions in water potential recovery values (predawn measurements), stomatal conductance, specific weights, soluble N content, and an alteration in free amino acid distribution. Little change in any of these parameters was noted in leaves treated with TD-1123 alone. A sequential treatment of TD-1123 followed in 10 days with DEF had an apparent synergistic effect in that the effect on most parameters measured was more pronounced and occurred earlier in such leaves than in those treated with either chemical alone.
The effect of tetracycline on nonreciprocal cross incompatibility in Mormoniella [= Nasonia] vitripennis

Abstract Certain stocks of the parasitic wasp Mormoniella [= Nasonia] vitripennis exhibit nonreciprocal cross incompatibility. This phenomenon is believed to be caused by a maternally inherited cytoplasmic agent. Females reared on hosts injected with tetracycline became incompatible with untreated males that were normally compatible with them. The male progeny of these females were subsequently shown to be compatible with normally incompatible untreated females. Later tests revealed that some of the males reared on hosts injected with tetracycline were also compatible with normally incompatible untreated females. Stocks have now been established that retain this new pattern of compatibility.
Tree farms: Driving forces and regional patterns in the global expansion of forest plantations

People have planted trees in rural places with increasing frequency during the past two decades, but the circumstances in which they plant and the social forces inducing them to plant remain unclear. While forests that produce wood for industrial uses comprise an increasing number of the plantations, most of the growth has occurred in Asia where plantations that produce wood for local consumption remain important. Explanations for these trends take economic, political, and human ecological forms. Growth in urban and global markets for forest products, coupled with rural to urban migration, may spur the conversion of fields into tree farms. Government programs also stimulate tree planting. These programs occur frequently in nations with high population densities. Quantitative, cross-national analyses suggest that these forces combine in regionally distinctive ways to promote the expansion of forest plantations. In Africa and Asia plantations have expanded most rapidly in nations with densely populated rural districts, rural to urban migration, and government policies that promote tree planting. In the Americas and Oceania plantations have expanded rapidly in countries with relatively stable rural populations, low densities, and extensive tracts of land in pasture. If, as anticipated, the growing concern with global warming spurs further expansion in forest plantations in an effort to sequester carbon, questions about their social and ecological effects should become more pressing.
Solid modeling and system design

Abstract This article is intended to give the reader a better understanding of solid modeling systems, with emphasis on their use in mechanical applications. It should be helpful for both users and buyers of such systems. While geometry creation and manipulation serve as the underlying foundations, we will also address functions such as weight (mass) calculation and mechanism simulation, as well as the interface to other programs (i.e. finite element analysis etc.).
Monte Carlo study of the stabilization of complex bicontinuous phases in diblock copolymer systems

Lattice Monte Carlo simulations are used to study the stabilization of different ordered bicontinuous phases in A−B diblock copolymer systems. The stabilization approach involves attempting to reduce the packing frustration inside the nodes of the bicontinuous phases by the addition of an A-component “additive”. Two different strategies are considered which entail the addition of (1) explicit selective-solvent particles and (2) homopolymer of a length equal to 80% that of the diblock copolymer chains. Approximate phase boundaries were found via free-energy calculations, and great care was taken to enact the commensurability of system size with the unit-cell dimensions of distinct candidate phases. A very contrasting phase behavior is observed upon increasing the amount of the A-component additive in the two different strategies. With the first strategy (i.e., addition of solvent particles) we observed the progression gyroid → perforated lamella → lamella → reversed gyroid, including a long-lived metastabl...
Bidirectional wavelength conversion between 1.3- and 1.5-/spl mu/m telecommunication bands using difference frequency mixing in LiNbO/sub 3/ waveguides with integrated coupling structures

We demonstrate static, bidirectional, and efficient (9-dB conversion loss) wavelength conversion between the 1.3 /spl mu/m and the 1.5 /spl mu/m telecommunications bands using periodically poled LiNbO/sub 3/ waveguides containing integrated devices. With improved waveguide uniformity and reduced propagation losses, a 0-dB wavelength conversion loss should be accessible using a diode laser pump.
Effects of clearcutting and site preparation on water yields from slash pine forests

Abstract Three operational-sized watersheds in poorly-drained pine flatwoods forests on sandy soils of the Lower Coastal Plain in north Florida were isolated and continuously monitored for more than 3 years. Recording flumes assessed quantity of runoff water. After 1 year of calibration monitoring, two of the watersheds were harvested, site-prepared, and planted under distinct harvest and regeneration practices. Minimum practices, imposed on one watershed, consisted of manual shortwood harvest of pinelands, roller drum chopping of harvest residues and residual understory, bedding, and planting. Maximum practices, imposed on another, consisted of tree length logging of pinelands with heavy equipment, extraction of lightwood stumps, burning and windrowing of logging residue and residual understory, harrowing, bedding, and planting. Both systems increased water yields. Following minimum practices, yield increased intermittently depending on weather. Following maximum practices the increase in water yield was quicker, larger, and more persistent over various seasons and weather conditions. In both cases water yields returned to preharvest levels or less within the year following planting.
Correcting well-log information for computer processing and analysis

Abstract Detailed subsurface analysis is dependent on suites of good quality well logs that are similar in lithologic response and in presentation. Well-to-well variations in the logs should reflect changes in lithology, not in the recording instrument and instrument settings. Differences in the recording and play back of logged curves, even with the most modern instruments, seriously can affect geologic interpretations. Computer analysis of digitally recorded logs is more dependent on recording quality and can produce erroneous results if there are small errors in the measured input values and control parameters. Good exploration requires good data, however the geologist cannot control the log quality and must work with whatever data are available. Fortunately most digital log curves can be corrected and standardized so that they qualify as good information. In mature exploration areas, where drilling has been spread through a number of years, the well logs will range from modern digital computer presentations to old hard-copy display exhibiting a variety of depth and instrument response scales. They may seem an agglomeration of misfit logs that are impossible to work with in their original form. Photographic methods of producing standard presentations gives only marginal improvements. The most practical method of creating uniform sets of logs is to digitize the logs then correct and replay them in a form that is optimal for either geologic analysis or extended computer processing. Examples from New York State show how computer processing can be used to transform old logs so that they display uniform responses to lithology. Cross sections illustrate detailed correlations that were not practical with the original hard-copy logs and examples from individual wells display computer calculated porosities from corrected curves utilizing whole-rock compensation.
Cancer statistics, 1998

The Surveillance Research Program of the American Cancer Society's Department of Epidemiology and Surveillance reports its 32nd annual compilation of cancer incidence, mortality, and survival data for the United States and around the world.
Selection of buffer reactors and synchronous condensers on power systems supplying arc-furnace loads

The studies and analyses presented in this paper provide a rational method for the selection of the optimum buffer reactance and synchronous condenser size to limit flicker-voltage disturbances caused by arc-furnace loads on power systems in those cases where such corrective measures are required. The influence of the system parameters, including buffer reactance, condenser size, system reactance, and amount of additional steady loads such as furnaces in the refining stage of the melt, are considered simultaneously with shock loading produced by a furnace operating in the melt-down stage. In addition, the magnitude and frequency of the shock load are varied over a considerable range, since there is no generally accepted typical shock.
Dynamics of Methane Trapped in C(60) Interstices

In order to understand the hindered rotational and vibrational dynamics of methane trapped in C{sub 60} interstices and to determine the structure around the interstitial site, they have carried out inelastic neutron scattering studies of the methane/C{sub 60} system. At temperatures of 20K and below, they observe inelastic peaks from rotational transitions of the CH{sub 4}. These transitions allow unambiguous assignment of the hindered rotational energy levels and a determination of the interaction potential. The appearance of two peaks for one of the J = 0{r_arrow}3 transitions implies the existence of two distinct kinds of interstitial sites and the measured transition energies suggest a rotational barrier of about 26 and 16 meV for these sites. Time-dependent changes in peak heights indicate slow t{sub 1/2} ({approx} 2.6 hrs) triplet{r_arrow}quintet nuclear spin conversion that necessarily accompanies the J = 1{r_arrow}0 rotational relaxation. They also have observed a sharp inelastic peak at 9.3 meV, which corresponds to a local vibrational mode of CH{sub 4} rattling in its cage at {approximately} 2.2 THz. Other peaks involving higher-energy vibrational excitations in CD{sub 4}/C{sub 60} correspond in energy to assigned peaks in the inelastic neutron scattering spectra of C{sub 60}, albeit sometimes with different intensities.
Engineering an Arginine Catabolizing Bioconjugate: Biochemical and Pharmacological Characterization of PEGylated Derivatives of Arginine Deiminase from Mycoplasma arthritidis

Arginine is an important metabolite in the normal function of several biological systems, and arginine deprivation has been investigated in animal models and human clinical trials for its effects on inhibition of tumor growth, angiogenesis, or nitric oxide synthesis. In order to design an optimal arginine-catabolizing enzyme bioconjugate, a novel recombinant arginine deiminase (ADI) from Mycoplasma arthritidis was prepared, and multi-PEGylated derivatives were examined for enzymatic and biochemical properties in vitro, as well as pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic behavior in rats and mice. ADI bioconjugates constructed with 12 kDa or 20 kDa monomethoxy-poly(ethylene glycol) polymers with linear succinimidyl carbonate linkers were investigated via intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous administration in rodents. The selected PEG−ADI compounds have 22 ± 2 PEG strands per protein dimer, providing an additional molecular mass of about 0.2−0.5 × 106 Da and prolonging the plasma mean residence time of th...
A typology of non-adherence in pediatric renal transplant recipients

We reviewed 112 pediatric renal transplant recipients to document the rate of medication non-adherence (NA) and to examine the relationships between NA, comorbid psychiatric illness, and the outcome variables of acute and chronic rejection and graft loss. A total of 32.5% of subjects had clinically significant NA with treatment based on review of serum immunosuppressant levels. NA was found to be significantly related to acute and chronic rejection, and graft loss (p < 0.001). NA was also related to the presence of comorbid psychiatric illness (p < 0.001). Logistic regression indicated that NA was a significant predictor for acute and chronic rejection, while psychiatric illness predicted graft loss. Adolescents had significantly higher rates of NA as well as shorter intervals between transplant date and onset of NA when compared with child patients (p < 0.001). Physician ratings of the primary reasons for NA suggested that lack of parental supervision and parent-child conflict were the major factors related to NA.
Applications of modulated differential scanning calorimetry in preformulation studies

Characterization of the thermal properties of active pharmaceutical ingredients is critical in the selection of appropriate physical forms for development and defining proper manufacturing, handling and storage conditions of those chemical entities. Modulated differential scanning calorimetry (MDSC) has proven to be an effective tool in the thorough characterization of thermal behavior of compounds in preformulation studies. Selected applications of MDSC for various preclinical compounds are presented, thereby demonstrating the utility of this analytical method in the determination of glass transitions, characterization of desolvation and degradation processes as well as in the study of polymorphic transformations and crystallizations.
Using theoretical descriptors in quantitative structure activity relationships: Some physicochemical properties

The application of computational techniques to biology, chemistry and physics is growing rapidly. Quantitative structure–activity relationships (QSAR) have been used widely to relate biological activities and physicochemical properties to molecular structural features. A difficulty in this approach has been non-uniformity of parameter sets resulting in the inability to examine contributions across properties and data sets. Linear solvation energy relationships (LSER) developed by Kamlet and Taft successfully utilize a single set of parameters to correlate a wide range of biological, chemical and physical properties. The empirical LSER solvatochromic parameters have been replaced with theoretically determined parameters to permit greater ease in a priori property prediction. These TLSER descriptors have given good correlations and interpretations for some biological activities. This paper discusses the application of these descriptors to six physicochemical properties involving equilibria, kinetics and spectra. The results show good correlation and physical interpretation.
Efferent connections of the basal forebrain in the cat: the substantia innominata.

Abstract The efferent connections of the substantia innominata in the cat were studied with radioautographic methods. Injections of [3H]leucine were placed throughout the substantia innominata in 20 cats. The results indicate a complex organization to the efferent distribution of fibers from this region. The projections associated with more caudomedial regions of the substantia innominata resemble those of the adjacent preoptic-hypothalamic area and innervate the septal area, lateral habenular nucleus, and ventral tegmental area. Fibers arising from more caudolateral parts of the substantia innominata (ventral pallidum) appear to project in a crude topographic manner to the amygdala via two routes—the stria terminalis and a second group of caudolaterally directed axons. The fiber distribution from the region of the nucleus basalis is widespread to a variety of cortical sites, such as the olfactory bulb, prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate gyrus, pyriform, and posterior sylvian cortices. Fibers arising from the rostral aspect of the substantia innominata adjacent to the nucleus accumbens are distributed exclusively to the ventral tegmental area and adjoining substantia nigra. All parts of the substantia innominata supply the ventral tegmental area.
Lagrangian coherent structures in various map representations for application to multi-body gravitational regimes

Abstract The Finite-Time Lyapunov Exponent (FTLE) has been demonstrated as an effective metric for revealing distinct, bounded regions within a flow. The dynamical differential equations derived in multi-body gravitational environments model a flow that governs the motion of a spacecraft. Specific features emerge in an FTLE map, denoted Lagrangian Coherent Structures (LCS), that define the extent of regions that bound qualitatively different types of behavior. Consequently, LCS supply effective barriers to transport in a generic system, similar to the notion of invariant manifolds in autonomous systems. Unlike traditional invariant manifolds associated with solutions in an autonomous system, LCS evolve with the flow in time-dependent systems while continuing to bound distinct regions of behavior. Moreover, in general, FTLE values supply information describing the relative sensitivity in the neighborhood of a trajectory. Here, different models and variable representations are used to generate maps of FTLE, and the resulting structures are applied to design and analysis within an astrodynamical context. Application of FTLE and LCS to transfers from LEO to the L1 region in the Earth–Moon system are presented and discussed. In an additional example, an FTLE analysis is offered of a few stationkeeping maneuvers from the Earth–Moon mission ARTEMIS (Acceleration, Reconnection, Turbulence and Electrodynamics of the Moon's Interaction with the Sun).
The Energy Expenditure of Largemouth Bass Larvae, Micropterus salmoides, during Yolk Absorption

Abstract This research was designed to determine if a metabolic energy deficit was a cause of mortality in larval largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). An energy budget was established which compared the energy available in the yolk to the energy utilized in catabolism for 24 hr intervals from the time of fertilization to complete yolk absorption. The energy available to an embryo or larva was calculated from the caloric value of the yolk present at a given time. Catabolic expenditures of energy were determined by two different methods. The first was to establish the day-to-day dry weight loss of the larvae and convert this to an energy expenditure value. The second method used oxygen consumption at a constant temperature as a measure of catabolism. The dry weight method revealed that the average larva had enough energy remaining in the yolk to meet developmental and catabolic requirements until a slight deficit occurred in the late stages of yolk absorption (288 hr after fertilization). This deficit d...
The association of urinary tract infection with a recent pelvic examination in women

We tried to determine whether women with a urinary tract infection (UTI) were more likely to have had a recent pelvic examination than were women seen for other reasons. We compared 56 women who were diagnosed as having a UTI with 49 controls who had an unrelated complaint (sinusitis). Significantly more women with UTIs had received a pelvic examination within the preceding 2 months (43% vs 16%, P = .01). We conclude that having a pelvic examination is associated with an increased risk of a UTI developing within the following 2 months. This may be due to physical factors related to the examination or to risk factors related to the patients' reasons for obtaining a pelvic examination. Further study is needed to determine if the pelvic examination is an independent risk factor. If so, established preventive measures could reduce this risk.
Correlates of quality of life and functional disability in individuals with body dysmorphic disorder.

Objective Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a chronic mental illness characterized by low quality of life and functional disability across multiple domains. Despite the clinical importance of understanding impairment in BDD, there has been little research examining the factors that contribute to these constructs. The present study was designed to examine sociodemographic and clinical correlates of quality of life and disability (work, social, and family) in a sample of individuals with moderately severe BDD symptoms. Method Participants completed an internet survey with questions about demographics, BDD phenomenology, treatment, and impairment. Only participants who completed all study measures and received a score ≥ 16 on the 10-item Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale, Modified for BDD (BDD-YBOCS), indicating the presence of clinical BDD symptoms, were included in the analysis (n = 256 ). Multivariate regression with backwards variable selection was used to identify significant predictors of quality of life and functional disability, assessed with the Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Scale-Short Form (QLESQ-SF) and the Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS), respectively. Results BDD symptom severity was inversely associated with quality of life and directly associated with disability in all domains. After controlling statistically for BDD symptom severity, sociodemographic and clinical factors such as age, gender, ethnicity, marital status, insurance, body parts of concern, depression symptoms, and anxiety symptoms were significantly associated with impairment. Conclusion Results suggest a multidimensional nature of quality of life and functional disability and underscore the importance of developing holistic treatment strategies to address impairment in BDD.
μ-Conotoxin SmIIIA, a Potent Inhibitor of Tetrodotoxin-Resistant Sodium Channels in Amphibian Sympathetic and Sensory Neurons†

Mu-conotoxins are a family of peptides from the venoms of predatory cone snails. Previously characterized mu-conotoxins preferentially block skeletal muscle voltage-gated sodium channels. We report here the discovery (via cloning), synthesis, and electrophysiological characterization of a new peptide in this family, mu-conotoxin SmIIIA from Conus stercusmuscarum. Although mu-conotoxin SmIIIA shares several biochemical characteristics with other mu-conotoxins (the arrangement of cysteine residues and a conserved arginine believed to interact with residues near the channel pore), it has distinctive features such as the absence of hydroxyproline. In voltage-clamped dissociated neurons from frog sympathetic and dorsal root ganglia, the peptide inhibited the majority of tetrodotoxin-resistant sodium currents irreversibly; in contrast, tetrodotoxin-sensitive sodium currents were largely unaffected by the peptide. We believe that mu-conotoxin SmIIIA is the first specific antagonist of tetrodotoxin-resistant voltage-gated sodium channels to be discovered. Thus, the peptide provides a new and potentially useful tool to investigate the functional roles of tetrodotoxin-resistant voltage-gated sodium channels, including those that are found in sensory nerves that convey nociceptive information.
Renal artery embolization: clinical indications and experience from over 100 cases.

Renal artery embolization is used for various reasons, and authors from the USA review their experience of using this technique before nephrectomy in patients with large renal masses. They found it to be safe and effective, with minimal morbidity. They note the lack of published prospective randomized trials, and suspect that this contributes to it being underused. OBJECTIVE To review current indications and techniques for renal artery embolization (RAE) and more specifically to review cases of RAE before nephrectomy for treating patients with a large renal mass. PATIENTS AND METHODS All RAEs done at our institution between May 1993 and December 2005 were reviewed. Patients were identified using a database assembled by the Division of Cardiovascular Interventional Radiology. Indications, techniques and RAE-related complications were then obtained from a retrospective review of medical records. Additional data for patients undergoing preoperative infarction were acquired, including estimated blood loss (EBL), transfusion requirement, pathological size, subtype, grade, stage, and level of tumour thrombus if present. RESULTS In all, there were 121 RAEs, 69 in males and 52 in females (mean age 57.6 years, range 11–89). Metallic microcoils were the most often used embolization agent, followed by acrylic microspheres (embospheres), polyvinyl alcohol particles, absolute ethanol, and Gelfoam (Pharmacia & Upjohn, USA). The most common indication for RAE was infarction before nephrectomy (54.5%). Other indications included symptomatic angiomyolipomas, palliation of unresectable renal cancer, haemorrhage, perinephric bleeding in end-stage renal disease, vascular lesions, malignant hypertension, and sequelae of end-stage renal disease. RAE-associated complications including coil migration, incomplete embolization, and groin haematoma (in 5.0%). Symptoms of post-infarction syndrome were common, with 74.4% of patients having flank pain, nausea, or vomiting; the vast majority of these symptoms were mild and self-limited. In patients having nephrectomy after RAE the median (range) interval from RAE was 2 (0–78) days. The mean tumour size was 11.2 (3.5–25) cm and 46% of patients had tumour thrombus present in either the renal vein or inferior vena cava (IVC). The mean (median) overall EBL in patients having nephrectomy after RAE was 1048 (725) mL. The mean transfusion requirement over the course of hospitalization was 3.9 units of packed red blood cells. CONCLUSIONS RAE is a safe and effective therapeutic tool for many urological, renal and vascular conditions. Its use has increased at our institution due to improved techniques, embolization materials, and our increasing use of RAE as an adjuvant procedure for patients requiring nephrectomy with or without IVC thrombectomy. There are many potential operative advantages for patients having RAE before surgery, with minimal morbidity. It is likely that the lack of prospective randomized trials is the primary reason why it is underutilized in the preoperative setting.
Modulation of high-dose methotrexate toxicity by a non-toxic level of 5-fluorouracil.

Abstract High-dose methotrexate (MTX) toxicity is reduced by a non-toxic dose of 5-fluorouracil (FU) when these agents are used in combination. Changes in the hematopoietic system (platelets, erythrocytes, leukocytes, hemoglobin, and hematocrit), ileal tissue, body weight, and mean survival were used as parameters to assess toxicity. For all parameters studied, there were no significant differences between the scheduling of MTX (245 mg/kg) after a priming dose of FU (25 mg/kg), simultaneous MTX and FU, FU alone, and control. However, sequential treatment with MTX followed by FU, and MTX alone resulted in: (a) a marked decrease in the hematopoietic parameters; (b) significant morphological changes in ileal tissue; (c) a reduction of body weight; and (d) increased mortality of animals. Hence, this study suggests that FU, a cytotoxic agent, may protect against MTX toxicity and improve its therapeutic index when FU administration precedes MTX or when these agents are given simultaneously.
On Some Ordering Properties of the Generalized Inverses of Nonnegative Definite Matrices

For any positive definite matrices A and B, it is known that A > B iff B - ’ >A - ‘. This paper investigates the extensions of the above result to any two real nonnegative definite matrices A and B. For any real positive definite matrices A and B, it is known that A > B iff B - ’ >A - ‘. The extension of this result to real nonnegative definite (n.n.d.) matrices A and B is not trivial, since the “inverse” of A or B may not be uniquely defined. In this paper we consider the following question: for any n.n.d. matrices A and B with A > B and any given generalized inverse A - of A (or B - of B), does there exist a generalized inverse B - of I? (or A - of A) such that B - > A -? This question is answered for every possible combination of the ranks of A,B,A-,B-, and A-,B- can be interpreted as any of the {I}-, {2}-, {I,2}-, or { 1,2,3,4}-inverses of A, B. All the matrices considered are real. Before stating the main results of the paper, we need to give some basic facts about generalized inverses. For any matrix A of real elements, a generalized inverse X is defined by one or several of the following conditions due to Penrose [5]:
Amphiphilic nanoassemblies for the detection of peptides and proteins using fluorescence and mass spectrometry

Amphiphilic nanostructures provide unique environments for molecules that are incompatible with the solvent to be sequestered within their interior. These internal environments provide opportunities for concentrating an analyte or transducer molecule for detection, and the functional groups within the amphiphiles provide an opportunity for incorporating specificity or selectivity toward analytes. In this review, we discuss ways in which amphiphilic assemblies can be used to detect peptides and proteins with a particular emphasis on facially amphiphilic polymers and dendrimers.
Accounting for non-genetic factors by low-rank representation and sparse regression for eQTL mapping

Motivation: Expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) studies investigate how gene expression levels are affected by DNA variants. A major challenge in inferring eQTL is that a number of factors, such as unobserved covariates, experimental artifacts and unknown environmental perturbations, may confound the observed expression levels. This may both mask real associations and lead to spurious association findings. Results: In this article, we introduce a LOw-Rank representation to account for confounding factors and make use of Sparse regression for eQTL mapping (LORS). We integrate the low-rank representation and sparse regression into a unified framework, in which single-nucleotide polymorphisms and gene probes can be jointly analyzed. Given the two model parameters, our formulation is a convex optimization problem. We have developed an efficient algorithm to solve this problem and its convergence is guaranteed. We demonstrate its ability to account for non-genetic effects using simulation, and then apply it to two independent real datasets. Our results indicate that LORS is an effective tool to account for non-genetic effects. First, our detected associations show higher consistency between studies than recently proposed methods. Second, we have identified some new hotspots that can not be identified without accounting for non-genetic effects. Availability: The software is available at: http://bioinformatics.med.yale.edu/software.aspx. Contact: hongyu.zhao@yale.edu Supplementary information:Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Meaningful selection of temporal resolution for dynamic networks

The understanding of dynamics of data streams is greatly affected by the choice of temporal resolution at which the data are discretized, aggregated, and analyzed. Our paper focuses explicitly on data streams represented as dynamic networks. We propose a framework for identifying meaningful resolution levels that best reveal critical changes in the network structure, by balancing the reduction of noise with the loss of information. We demonstrate the applicability of our approach by analyzing various network statistics of both synthetic and real dynamic networks and using those to detect important events and changes in dynamic network structure.
Assessment of professional nursing students' knowledge and attitudes about patients of diverse cultures.

This study examined personal attitudes of 152 Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN), registered nurse (RN) to BSN, and master's students enrolled in a school of nursing in the southwestern United States toward culturally diverse patients and their perceived knowledge of specific cultural practices and culture-specific skills. Three instruments were used to collect data: the Ethnic Attitude Scale-Part I, the Transcultural Questionnaire, and a demographic survey. Findings reveal that students in all three programs had a relatively low knowledge base about specific cultural groups. The only statistically significant difference found in attitudes, perceived knowledge of cultural patterns, or perceived cultural skills by program was the slightly higher perceived ability of generic BSN students to distinguish between concepts such as ethnocentrism and discrimination, intra- and intercultural diversity, and ethnicity and culture. Similar to other studies of measurement of provider attitudes and perceived cultural knowledge, the results of this study reinforce the struggle experienced by educators and the challenges faced by health care administrators grappling with teaching and delivering culturally competent care. The findings imply that nurse educators need to examine alternate models and teaching strategies to move students along the continuum of cultural learning.
Study Skills, Self-Concept, and Academic Achievement

This study investigated the relationships between study skills, self-concept, and academic achievement and whether the self-report measures contributed to the prediction of grade-point average for ...
Automated Power Control for Mobile Laser Speckle Imaging System

Recently, laser speckle imaging (LSI) has been applied to measuring blood perfusion in human skin. Attractive features of LSI are its temporal resolution and relatively simple instrumentation. The progressive reduction in the cost and size of camera technology now enables development of mobile LSI instrumentation. To reduce the size of LSI to a mobile platform, we are faced with new challenges in terms of reducing power consumption and heat without sacrificing detection accuracy. To address these challenges, we propose pulsed laser operation using a new automated power control (APC) circuit. By synchronizing the pulses to the laser diode driver with the camera shutter, the camera detects a similar raw speckle image as before while consuming only a small fraction of the power. Furthermore, the reduced power consumption in turn keeps the temperature of the case low, increasing the stability of the system. We validated our solution using simulations in Pspice, and we evaluated the operation of the circuit using a prototype APC board and a commercial camera.
Tyrosine Phosphorylation of Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Mediates Grb2 Binding

Tyrosine phosphorylation of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AChR) is associated with an altered rate of receptor desensitization and also may play a role in agrin-induced receptor clustering. We have demonstrated a previously unsuspected interaction between Torpedo AChR and the adaptor protein Grb2. The binding is mediated by the Src homology 2 (SH2) domain of Grb2 and the tyrosine-phosphorylated delta subunit of the AChR. Dephosphorylation of the delta subunit abolishes Grb2 binding. A cytoplasmic domain of the delta subunit contains a binding motif (pYXNX) for the SH2 domain of Grb2. Indeed, a phosphopeptide corresponding to this region of the delta subunit binds to Grb2 SH2 fusion proteins with relatively high affinity, whereas a peptide lacking phosphorylation on tyrosine exhibits no binding. Grb2 is colocalized with the AChR on the innervated face of Torpedo electrocytes. Furthermore, Grb2 specifically copurifies with AChR solubilized from postsynaptic membranes. These data suggest a novel role for tyrosine phosphorylation of the AChR in the initiation of a Grb2-mediated signaling cascade at the postsynaptic membrane.
Correlation of Cerebral Oximetry With Internal Carotid Artery Stump Pressures in Carotid Endarterectomy

Objective: This study compares internal carotid artery (ICA) mean stump pressures (SPs) with cerebral oximetry monitoring during carotid endarterectomy (CEA). Methods: A total of 104 consecutive patients undergoing CEA under general anesthesia (GA) during a 10-month period were prospectively evaluated. Baseline and postcarotid clamp regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) and mean ICA SPs were measured. Demographic, surgical, and medical variables were recorded for each case. Results: There were no postoperative strokes. Thirteen patients were excluded because of incomplete data. Of the 40 patients who had <10% drop in rSO2, 6 had SP <40 mm Hg. Regional cerebral oxygen saturation with a 15% saturation drop threshold was 76.3% sensitive and 81.1% specific in detecting patients with SP <40 mm Hg. With a threshold of 20% drop, sensitivity and specificity were 57.9% and 86.8%, respectively. Conclusions: Relative drop in rSO 2 is neither sensitive nor specific in detecting patients with mean SP <40 mm Hg. T...
Carrier lifetimes in silicon

Carrier lifetimes in semiconductors are being rediscovered by the Si IC community, because the lifetime is a very effective parameter to characterize the purity of a material or device. It has become a process and equipment characterization parameter. The various recombination mechanisms are discussed and the concept of recombination and generation lifetime is presented. We show that surface recombination/generation plays an important role in today's high purity Si and will become yet more important as bulk impurity densities in Si are reduced further. Furthermore, the dependence of lifetime on impurity energy level and minority carrier injection level is discussed. Concepts are stressed in the paper, with the necessary equations to clarify these concepts. Wherever possible, the concepts are augmented with experimental data, with particular emphasis on the case of iron in silicon, because Fe is one of the most important impurities in Si today. We have used Si in the examples because lifetime measurements are most commonly made in Si.
Zinc transporter ZIP8 (SLC39A8) and zinc influence IFN‐γ expression in activated human T cells

The zinc transporter ZIP8 is highly expressed in T cells derived from human subjects. T cell ZIP8 expression was markedly up-regulated upon in vitro activation. T cells collected from human subjects who had received oral zinc supplementation (15 mg/day) had higher expression of the activation marker IFN-γ upon in vitro activation, indicating a potentiating effect of zinc on T cell activation. Similarly, in vitro zinc treatment of T cells along with activation resulted in increased IFN-γ expression with a maximum effect at 3.1 μM. Knockdown of ZIP8 in T cells by siRNA decreased ZIP8 levels in nonactivated and activated cells and concomitantly reduced secretion of IFN-γ and perforin, both signatures of activation. Overexpression of ZIP8 by transient transfection caused T cells to exhibit enhanced activation. Confocal microscopy established that ZIP8 is localized to the lysosome where ZIP8 abundance is increased upon activation. Loss of lysosomal labile zinc in response to activation was measured by flow cytometry using a zinc fluorophore. Zinc between 0.8 and 3.1 μM reduced CN phosphatase activity. CN was also inhibited by the CN inhibitor FK506 and ZIP8 overexpression. The results suggest that zinc at low concentrations, through inhibition of CN, sustains phosphorylation of the transcription factor CREB, yielding greater IFN-γ expression in T cells. ZIP8, through control of zinc transport from the lysosome, may provide a secondary level of IFN-γ regulation in T cells.
Measuring salivary cortisol in the behavioral neuroscience laboratory.

It is often difficult for instructors teaching laboratory courses in behavioral neuroscience to find appropriate experiments that can ethically examine biological parameters in human participants. In most instances, the default experiments that allow students to act as both experimenter and subject tend to be electrophysiological in nature (e.g., EEG, GSR, etc.). We report here the use of an experiment module that utilizes an easily-obtained enzyme immunoassay (EIA) kit to measure human salivary cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone of the adrenal cortex that can be used as a peripheral indicator of hypothalamic neural activity. Plasma (and salivary) cortisol levels rise due to circadian influences as well as perturbations in the organism’s environment (i.e., stressors). The involvement of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in the pathophysiology of depression makes this an appealing module to students in behavioral neuroscience laboratories. Measurement of salivary cortisol takes advantage of a simple, painless, non-invasive sampling procedure. The assay can be performed successfully by anyone with access to a plate reader, a shaker or rotary mixer, and a few commonly used pipettors. A single plate assay can be completed in two to three hours. Students in our behavioral neuroscience laboratory class have utilized this kit successfully to examine the circadian cortisol rhythm as well as the effect of stress/relaxation on cortisol levels.
New directions in cryptography: twenty some years later (or cryptograpy and complexity theory: a match made in heaven)

Diffie and Hellman (1976) published their fundamental paper on new directions in cryptography, in which they announced that "we stand on the brink of a revolution in cryptography". Twenty some years later, we survey some of the progress made in cryptography during this time. We especially focus on the successful interplay between complexity theory and cryptography, witnessed perhaps most vividly by the developments in interactive and probabilistic proof systems and in pseudo random number generation.
Phonological Awareness for American Sign Language

This paper examines the concept of phonological awareness (PA) as it relates to the processing of American Sign Language (ASL). We present data from a recently developed test of PA for ASL and examine whether sign language experience impacts the use of metalinguistic routines necessary for completion of our task. Our data show that deaf signers exposed to ASL from infancy perform better than deaf signers exposed to ASL later in life and that this relationship remains even after controlling for the number of years of experience with a signed language. For a subset of participants, we examine the relationship between PA for ASL and performance on a PA test of English and report a positive correlation between ASL PA and English PA in native signers. We discuss the implications of these findings in relation to the development of reading skills in deaf children.
Area efficient controller design of barrel shifters for reconfigurable LDPC decoders

In this paper, we propose an efficient controller design of barrel shifter for reconfigurable low-density parity-check (LDPC) decoders, which leads to significant reduction in hardware complexity. Since the structured LDPC codes for the most modern wireless communication systems include multiple code rates, various block lengths, and different sizes of submatrices, a reconfigurable LDPC decoder is desirable and the barrel shifter needs to be programmable. Even though the Benes network can be optimized for the barrel shifting networks of reconfigurable LDPC decoder, it is not trivial to generate all the control signals for numerous 2times2 switches on-the-fly. A novel simplified algorithm capable of generating all the control signals is proposed using the properties that both the full-size Benes network can be broken into two half-size Benes networks and the barrel shifters needed in the structured LDPC decoders require only cyclic shifts. The proposed algorithm can be easily implemented with a small numbers of gates. Compared with the direct implementation using a dedicated look-up table, the proposed algorithm achieves a significant hardware reduction in implementing a reconfigurable LDPC decoder.