cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lipoxygenase inhibitors block PDGF-induced mitogenesis: a MAPK-independent mechanism that blocks fos and egr

Hepatic Ito cells proliferate during liver injury and fibrogenesis. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-induced [3H]thymidine incorporation was studied as Ito cells express the PDGF receptor after injury and activation. Pretreatment with either the nonspecific lipoxygenase inhibitor (nordihydroguaiaretic acid) or specific inhibitors of 5-lipoxygenase (SC-41661 and ICI-230487) inhibited PDGF-induced mitogenesis. Ito cells predominantly produce the leukotriene (LT) C4 >> LTB4. The PDGF-induced signal transduction cascade was studied to determine the potential mechanism of action of the lipoxygenase inhibitors. It was found that PDGF receptor abundance and receptor activation were not altered by lipoxygenase inhibition, suggesting that a postreceptor mechanism was involved. The two-key cytoplasmic serine-threonine kinases Raf and MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase), which are induced by PDGF and transmit the signal to the nucleus, were also not altered. Because Raf and MAPK can independently induce nuclear signaling, this suggests that the mechanism of action lies parallel or distal to these secondary messengers. Lipoxygenase inhibition did result in the suppression of PDGF-induced fos and egr expression. Collectively, this work suggests that lipoxygenase inhibition leads to the suppression of mitogenesis in part by disrupting the nuclear signaling that is required for protooncogene transcription at a step distal or parallel to MAPK activation.
Diarrhea, Weight Loss, and an Ampullary Mass

Aman in his 50swith a history of hypercholesterolemia and type 2 diabetesmellitus was referred for diarrhea (5-6 timesperday) anda27-kgweight loss in thepreceding5months. The patient did not have abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or a history of abdominal surgical procedures and did not use alcohol or tobacco. On physical examination, the patient’s abdomen was soft, nontender, and nondistended, with no palpable masses, and he did not appear jaundiced. Results of laboratory testing demonstrated a carbohydrate antigen 19-9 level of less than 1 U/mL and a carcinoembryonic antigen level of 6.0 ng/mL (to convert tomicrograms per liter, multiply by 1.0). Aduodenalmasswas foundusingesophagogastroduodenoscopyandbiopsieswere taken. To further evaluate the lesion, thepatient underwent a computed tomographic scanof the abdomen and pelvis with contrast dye (Figure 1). A B
β-N-Methylamino-l-alanine in the presence of bicarbonate is an agonist at non- N-methyl-d-aspartate-type receptors

Abstract β-N-Methylamino- l -alanine , a component of the neurotoxic Cycas circinalis plant, activates an ionic current which is antagonized by extracellular Ca 2+ but not by the excitatory amino acid receptor antagonists d,l -2-amino-5-phosphonovalerate (10–100 μM) or 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (1–10 μM). This current was reduced by 50% in 0.5 mM extracellular Ca 2+ and 92% in 3.0 mM Ca 2+ when compared to those recorded in 0.1 mM Ca 2+ . Addition of 10 or 20 mM NaHCO 3 to β-N-methylamino- l -alanine (500 μM) potentiated the currents 224% and 578%, respectively. Addition of NaHCO 3 to the extracellular Ringers (pH 7.2) shifted the pH to 7.7 (10 mM) or 8.3 (20 mM). β-N-Methylamino- l -alanine was potentiated by NaHCO 3 at pH 7.2, 7.7 and 8.3, but the potentiation with NaHCO 3 (20 mM) was larger at pH 8.3 (5.7-fold) compared to pH 7.2 (3-fold). NaHCO 3 (20 mM) had no effect on quisqualate-, N-methyl- d -aspartate - or kainate-activated ionic currents. The β-N-methylamino- l -alanine-NaHCO 3 -activated currents were reduced 49% by 1 μM and 80% by 10 μM 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione suggesting an agonist action at non-N-methyl- d -aspartate-type receptors. Activity at N-methyl- d -aspartate receptors is unlikely since the gb-N-methylamino- l -alanine-NaHCO 3 currents are not antagonized by d,l -2-amino-5-phosphonovalerate (10–100 μM), potentiated by addition of glycine (10 μM) or blocked by extracellular Mg 2+ . These data are consistent with the hypothesis that interaction between β-N-methylamino- l -alanine and bicarbonate produced a new agonist species, which activates quisqualate/kainate-type glutamate receptors and may be responsible for the neurotoxicity of β-N-methylamino- l -alanine in NaHCO 3 solutions. A similar mechanism could describe how normally innocuous amino acids could acquire neurotoxic potential vivo .
Muscle fatigue associated with repetitive arm lifts: effects of height, weight and reach

A simulated assembly-line task was constructed to investigate the metabolic cost and the pattern of muscular fatigue associated with selected arm lifts. Five healthy males lifted lead-filled cylinders five limes per minute in eight 1 hour sessions. In each session, the effect of varying the weight of the cylinders and the horizontal and vertical location or the point to which they were lifted was studied. Muscle fatigue was assessed from a frequency shift and rectified amplitude analysts of surface electromyographic records (EMG) of the deltoid, biceps, brachioradialis and upper trapezius muscles. Metabolic costs of the work were estimated from an analysis of heart rate and oxygen uptake. Additional measures included tests of strength decrement and ratings of perceived fatigue. The results indicated that the most fatiguing task variable was weight. At the heavier of the two levels, weight significantly increased the EMG amplitude of the deltoid, biceps and brachioradialis muscles. Significant increases in...
Pollenmorphologischer Beitrag zur Kenntnis der verwandtschaftlichen Beziehungen der Rhamnaceae-Gattungen Frangula Mill., Oreoherzogia W. Vent, Rhamnus L.

Die Pollenmorphologie der nahe verwandten Gattungen Frangula Mill., Oreoherzogia W. Vent und Rhamnus L. (Rhamnus L. s. l.) wurde mit Hilfe des Licht-und des Elektronenmikroskops untersucht. Der Pollen erweist sich als recht einformig gebaut. Unterschiede in der Substruktur zeigen sich in der Stratifikation — besonders in der Ausbildung der Baculazone — sowie im Oberflachenrelief (Ornamentation). Die Ergebnisse werden im Hinblick auf die verwandtschaftlichen Beziehungen der Gattungen diskutiert. The pollen morphology of the closely related genera Frangula Mill., Oreoherzogia W. Vent and Rhamnus L. (Rhamnus L. s. l.) was examined by means of photon and electron microscopy and was found to be rather uniform. Differences in fine structure were observed in exine stratification, especially in the bacula layer, and in ornamentation. The results were discussed with regard to the relationships of the genera.
Dielectric relaxation in some polyacrylate solutions

The dielectric constant ϵ′ and loss factor ϵ″ of poly(butyl acrylate), poly(butyl methacrylate), and poly(isobutyl methacrylate) solutions are reported in the frequency region of 1 kHz to 24.42 GHz at four different temperatures of 27, 40, 50, and 60°C. Cole–Cole plots are plotted to obtain the distribution parameter and relaxation time. The activation energies are evaluated assuming dielectric relaxation to be a rate process in these solutions. A possible relaxation mechanism is discussed.
N-Methyly Isatin β-thiosemicarbazone-Copper Complex Inhibits RNA-Dependent DNA Polymerase but not Ribunuclease rous Sarcoma Virus

Abstract N-Methyl isatin β-thiosemicarbazone-copper complex inhibits the RNA-dependent DNA polymerase activity of Rous sarcoma virus (RSV), but not its ribonuclease H. activity. In addition, bovine pancreatic RNase and DNase are not inhibited by the complex.
Visualization of Longitudinal Student Data.

We use visualization to find patterns in educational data. We represent student scores from high-stakes exams as flow vectors in fluids, define two types of streamlines and trajectories, and show that differences between streamlines and trajectories are due to regression to the mean. This issue is significant because it determines how quickly changes in long-term educational patterns can be deduced from score changes in consecutive years. To illustrate our methods, we examine a policy change in Texas that put increased pressure on public school students to pass several exams, and gave them resources to accomplish it. The response to this policy is evident from the changes in trajectories, although previous evaluation had concluded the program was ineffective. We pose the question of whether increased expenditure on education should be expected to correspond to improved student scores, or whether it should correspond to an increased rate of improvement in student scores.
Heparin/heparan sulfate is involved in attachment and spreading of mouse embryos in vitro

The involvement of embryonic cell surface proteoglycans in the attachment and outgrowth of cultured mouse embryos has been investigated. Several lines of evidence indicate that periimplantation stage blastocysts express heparin/heparan sulfate proteoglycans on their cell surfaces that can mediate embryo attachment and trophoblast outgrowth on a variety of matrices. First, in the presence of soluble heparin, the rate at which embryos attach and outgrow on laminin, fibronectin, or monolayers of uterine epithelial cells is reduced considerably. In the case of fibronectin, the rate of outgrowth in the presence of the heparin is slower than in the presence of the Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser-containing peptide that is recognized by a fibronectin receptor. Embryos also attach and exhibit a limited ability to outgrow on platelet factor IV, a heparin binding protein that does not possess the additional binding domains of laminin or fibronectin. Attachment on platelet factor IV is inhibited by heparin. Second, cell surface digestion of attachment-component embryos with heparinase, but not chondroitinase ABC, slows the rate of outgrowth on tissue culture plates in the presence of serum. Third, selective staining for sulfated molecules on the trophectoderm surface of periimplantation stage embryos indicates that such molecules are abundant and uniformly distributed on these cell surfaces. Last, heparin/heparan sulfate proteoglycans are detected as major cell surface components of embryos using vectorial labeling with lactoperoxidase and Na125I. Collectively, these data indicate that heparin/heparan sulfate-bearing molecules have a direct role in attachment and outgrowth of implantation stage blastocysts.
Effects of environmental heterogeneity on the distribution of sexes within and among populations in a gynodioecious species, Geranium maculatum.

Summary • Populations containing both females and hermaphrodites (dimorphic) are generally found in drier sites than those with only hermaphrodites (monomorphic). The sex-differential plasticity hypothesis (SDP) suggests that this is caused by hermaphrodites reducing allocation to seeds in harsh environments, allowing female establishment. We proposed that a similar process could explain sex distribution within populations. • We compared light availability and soil moisture between sites of three monomorphic and three dimorphic populations of Geranium maculatum and between microsites occupied by females and hermaphrodites within populations. We also correlated seed production in dimorphic populations with environmental measures. • We found that dimorphic and monomorphic populations occurred in sites with similar soil moisture but within two dimorphic populations females occurred in drier microsites than hermaphrodites, as predicted by the SDP hypothesis. Contrary to the predictions, hermaphrodites’ seed production was not influenced by the environment. Rather, females’ seed production was correlated with environmental conditions in two populations, although the direction of the correlation differed between populations. • Our results suggest that in this species, the SDP hypothesis does not explain sex distribution among or within populations. However, microsite environments may influence the distribution of sexes within a population and potentially aid in maintaining gynodioecy.
The Quality of Early Child Care and Children's Development

The past half-century saw dramatic changes in families that altered the daily experiences of many young children. As more mothers of young children entered the labor force, increasing numbers of young children spent substantial hours in various child-care settings. These changes gave rise to a large body of research on the impact of the quality of early child care on children's development. However, a full understanding of the role of the quality of early child care requires consideration of the interplay among child care, family, workplace, and society. This article places what we know about the quality of early child care and children's development in this larger ecological context, and suggests directions for future research and practice.
Dynamic Cournot oligopolies with production adjustment costs

Abstract Dynamic oligopolies with discrete time scale are examined with the additional condition that each firm faces a production adjustment cost at each time period. The global asymptotical stability of the resulting discrete system is investigated, and necessary and the sufficient conditions are presented.
Applying adult education principles to the design of a preceptor development program

For interprofessional health care teams to become realities, students must learn new team paradigms and have greater understanding of multiple disciplines. Collaboration must start early and be rei...
Guided growth: 1933 to the present

While osteotomies are necessary for rotational correction and limb lengthening, angular correction or moderate length inhibition may be achieved by other, less invasive means. Several techniques of epiphysiodesis have evolved, enabling gradual correction of angular correction and/or length equalisation through guided growth. This manuscript comprises a historical and comparative review of those techniques. The 8-plate method of guided growth affords the opportunity to provide a tension band (rather than compression) that expedites angular correction, compared to stapling or transphyseal screws, which rely upon the principle of compression. When applied to each side of a given physis, longitudinal growth is inhibited, in the same fashion as stapling or epiphysiodesis. The physis and periosteum are spared any direct insult, thus making this a reversible process, suitable for use in younger children. The 8-plate is simple to insert and, compared to staples or transphyseal screws, easy to remove.
Circadian rhythms of brain 5-hydroxytryptamine and swimming activity in the teleost, Fundulus grandis.

Abstract 1. The 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT, serotonin) concentration in the brain of male specimens of the teleost, Fundulus grandis , was determined for 24-hr periods. 2. The mean 5-HT concentrations in whole brains was higher betweeen 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. than between 8:30 p.m. and 4:30 a.m. 3. Male Fundulus grandis exhibited a diurnal swimming activity pattern; maximum activity occurred at 12:30 p.m. and minimum activity was at 12:30 a.m. 4. Males injected with 5-HT were less active than the saline-injected controls. 5. Male fishes kept in constant darkness for one week had significantly less brain 5-HT than males kept in constant light. 6. It is suggested that 5-HT has a normal role in regulating the swimming activity of this fish.
Trauma Symptoms and Life Skill Needs of Domestic Violence Victims

This study identified the trauma symptoms and life skill needs of 84 domestic violence victims from three domestic violence programs. Women completed two self-report tools: Trauma Symptom Inventory (TSI) and Occupational Self Assessment (OSA). Staff members participated in focus groups regarding their perceptions of the women’s needs. Women scored within the clinical range on the Defensive Avoidance (39.8%), Intrusive Experiences (30.1%), and Tension Reduction Behavior (24.1%) clinical scales of the TSI. On the OSA, the groups’ priorities differed although all demonstrated a desire to function more independently. Their mental health functioning and prioritization of needs differed based on their level of involvement with the service delivery system. Staff members believe women lack skills in the areas of money management, seeking and obtaining employment, locating permanent housing, independently completing self-care and home management activities, managing stress, and parenting. The findings indicate tha...
Alignment and overlay improvements for 3x nm and beyond process with CVD sidewall spacer double patterning

Sidewall Spacer Double Patterning (SSDP) has been adopted for the primary patterning technique for 3x nm technology node and beyond in flash memory device manufacturing. Three mask flow are used in SSDP process scheme in order to form the actual device layer; Core mask to define the template pattern, Trim mask to cut (cropping) the unneeded line ends from sidewall spacer, and Pad mask to pattern the periphery structures. Inter-layer and intra-layers alignment with sidewall spacer double patterning requires some engineering efforts compared to traditional single patterning alignment techniques. In this paper, we study the impacts of hard-mask materials on the inter-layer alignment as well as the mark design and process flow impact on intra-layer alignment. For intra-layer alignment, we searched various ASML ATHENA alignment marks and found the only workable mark (VSPM-AA157 Polar). Although the wafer quality scores during alignment were less than 0.1% in many cases, the alignment was successful and yielded acceptable performance for research and development activities requiring less than 10nm misalignment. Further new mark design and test should be carried in implementing in sidewall spacer double patterning process.
Critical Fields of Superconducting Tin, Indium, and Tantalum

Precise ballistic-induction measurements of the critical field curves of tin, indium, and tantalum are reported. The measurements were made to provide more accurate data on the deviation of the critical field curves from the parabolic law. The resulting deviation functions are generally within the range of uncertainty of earlier measurements. The main experimental error in the observed deviation now arises from uncertainty in the extrapolation of the measurements to 0\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K from the present lower limit of 1.1\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. Measurements at lower temperatures which will eliminate some of this uncertainty are to be desired.
The History of American Internal Medicine: A New Series of Articles

Excerpt The article by Paul Beeson (1) in the History of Medicine section of this issue inaugurates a new series. These papers will consider the evolution in the United States of this protean speci...
Differential thermal analysis of polyethylene in tetrachlorethylene I—Morphological effects on solution temperatures

Abstract The dissolution of polyethylene in tetrachlorethylene has been studied as a function of concentration, heating and cooling rates and different morphological structures. The solution behaviour of single crystals is compared to stirrer, melt, and high-pressure crystallized samples. Differences in fold period and crystallite size produce large changes in the solution behaviour. Annealing in solution at slow heating rates produces a multiplicity of dissolution exotherms. High heating rates cause superheating with extended chain crystals having the greatest tendency to superheat.
Functionalization of zeolite ZSM-5 by hydrosilylation and acetone coupling: synthesis, MAS NMR, and theory.

We report a two-step postsynthetic functionalization reaction of zeolite HZSM-5 that proceeds with high selectivity at room temperature. In the first step the framework acid sites of the zeolite are reacted with phenylsilane to replace the acidic proton with a hydrosilyl (−SiH3) group covalently linked to the framework. This group readily couples to acetone in a second step to form a framework-bound hydrosilyl isopropyl ether that is thermally stable at 473 K, but decomposes in the presence of moisture. We characterized these reactions using 29Si, 1H, and 13C MAS NMR, as appropriate. Theoretical modeling using density functional theory and cluster models of the zeolite acid site confirmed that both steps were exothermic and provided theoretical chemical shift values in excellent agreement with experiment.
Cingulate gyrus morphology in children and adolescents with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders

Abstract Alcohol consumption during pregnancy can lead to a variety of cognitive and other birth defects, collectively termed fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), and including the Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS). This study examined the impact of gestational alcohol exposure on the morphology of the cingulate gyrus, given this region's role in cognitive control, attention, and emotional regulation, all of which are affected in children with FASD. Thirty-one youth (ages 8–16) with histories of heavy prenatal alcohol exposure ( n =21) and demographically matched comparison subjects ( n =10) underwent structural magnetic resonance imaging. The cingulate gyrus was manually delineated, and parcellated volumes of grey and white matter were compared across groups. Alcohol-exposed individuals had significantly smaller raw cingulate grey matter, white matter, and tissue volumes compared with controls. After adjustment for respective cranial tissue constituents, only white matter volumes remained significantly reduced, and this held regardless of whether or not the child qualified for a diagnosis of FAS. A correlation between posterior cingulate grey matter volume and the WISC-III Freedom from Distractibility Index was also observed in alcohol-exposed children. These data suggest that cingulate white matter is compromised beyond global white matter hypoplasia in alcohol-exposed individuals, regardless of FAS diagnosis. The observed volumetric reductions in the cingulate gyrus may contribute to the disruptive and emotionally dysregulated behavioral profile commonly observed in this population.
Imaging of lateral spin valves with soft x-ray microscopy

We investigated Co/Cu lateral spin valves by means of high-resolution transmission soft x-ray microscopy with magnetic contrast that utilizes x-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD). No magnetic XMCD contrast was observed at the Cu L{sub 3} absorption edge, which should directly image the spin accumulation in Cu. Although electrical transport measurements in a non-local geometry clearly detected the spin accumulation in Cu, which remained unchanged during illumination with circular polarized x-rays at the Co and Cu L{sub 3} absorption edges.
Organizational Identity Formation and Change

Theory and research concerning organizational identity (“who we are as an organization”) is a burgeoning domain within organization study. A great deal of conceptual and empirical work has been accomplished within the last three decades—especially concerning the phenomenon of organizational identity change. More recently, work has been devoted to studying the processes and content associated with identity formation. Given the amount of scholarly work done to date, it is an appropriate time to reflect on the perspectives, controversies and outcomes of this body of work. Because organizational identity change has received the preponderance of attention, we first review that extensive literature. We consider the conceptual and empirical work concerning the three putative “pillars” of identity (i.e. that which is ostensibly central, enduring, and distinctive). We devote particular attention to the most controversial of these pillars—the debate pitting a view that sees identity as stable over time (a position ...
Protonophore-resistance and cytochrome expression in mutant strains of the facultative alkaliphile Bacillus firmus OF4.

Two protonophore-resistant mutants, designated strains CC1 and CC2, of the facultative alkaliphile Bacillus firmus OF4 811M were isolated. The ability of carbonyl cyanide m -chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP) to collapse the protonmotive force ( Δ μ ¯ H + ) was unimpaired in both mutants. Both resistant strains possessed elevated respiratory rates when grown at pH 7.5, in either the presence or absence of CCCP. Membrane cytochromes were also elevated: cytochrome o in particular in strain CC1, and cytochromes aa 3 , b, c and o in strain CC2. Strain CC2 also maintained a higher Δ μ ¯ H + than the others when grown in the absence of CCCP. When grown in the presence of low concentrations of CCCP, strains CC1 and CC2 both maintained higher values of Δ μ ¯ H + than the wild-type parent and correspondingly higher capacities for ATP synthesis. In large-scale batch culture at pH 10.5, both mutant strains grew more slowly than the parent and contained significantly reduced levels of cytochrome o . Cells of strain CC1 also displayed a markedly altered membrane lipid composition when grown at pH 10.5. Unlike previously characterized protonophore-resistant strains of B. subtilis and B. megaterium , neither B. firmus mutant possessed any ability above that of the parent strain to synthesize ATP at given suboptimal values of Δ μ ¯ H + . Instead, both resistant alkaliphile strains maintained a higher Δ μ ¯ H + and a correspondingly higher Δ G p than the parent strain when growing in sublethal concentrations of CCCP, apparently as a result of mutational changes affecting respiratory chain composition. Also of note in both the mutant and the wild-type strains was a marked elevation in the level of one of the multiple terminal oxidases, an aa 3 -type cytochrome, during growth at pH 7.5 in the presence of CCCP or during growth at pH 10.5, i.e. two conditions that reduce the bulk Δ μ ¯ H + .
ANNIVERSARY ARTICLE: Organizational Behavior, Strategy, Performance, and Design in Management Science

This article provides a personal perspective on the themes and topics that have emerged in research published by the department of organizational behavior, in the first 50 years ofManagement Science. A review of articles accepted by the department suggests several themes that reflect broad objectives, such as "improving management science models," or distinguishing points of view or assumptions, such as "treating organizations as decision-making entities." The research is summarized through topics and subtopics that classify the subjects and findings of the research, identifying the relative popularity of the topics, and their contribution to each of the themes. The pattern suggests that as a "behavioral" department in a journal characterized by managerial practice, optimization, and the context of real work organizations, research is uniquely grounded in applications, solutions, and work consequences in ways that are less prevalent in typical outlets for behavioral research.The article concludes by suggesting that there are ample signs of convergence across departments in the journal. Scholars in organizational behavior increasingly recognize that the context provided by other management disciplines provides essential insights. Likewise, scholars in other management disciplines increasingly recognize the value of integrating behavioral theories and findings into their frameworks and models.
TAM Receptors in Leukemia: Expression, Signaling, and Therapeutic Implications

In the past 30 years there has been remarkable progress in the treatment of leukemia and lymphoma. However, current treatments are largely ineffective against relapsed leukemia and, in the case of pediatric patients, are often associated with severe long-term toxicities. Thus, there continues to be a critical need for the development of effective biologically targeted therapies. The TAM family of receptor tyrosine kinases-Tyro3, Axl, and Mer-plays an important role in normal hematopoiesis, including natural killer cell maturation, macrophage function, and platelet activation and signaling. Furthermore, TAM receptor activation leads to upregulation of pro-survival and proliferation signaling pathways, and aberrant TAM receptor expression contributes to cancer development, including myeloid and lymphoid leukemia. This review summarizes the role of TAM receptors in leukemia. We outline TAM receptor expression patterns in different forms of leukemia, describe potential mechanisms leading to their overexpression, and delineate the signaling pathways downstream of receptor activation that have been implicated in leukemogenesis. Finally, we discuss the current research focused on inhibitors against these receptors in an effort to develop new therapeutic strategies for leukemia.
Blackjack-playing agents in an advanced AI course

Blackjack is a multi-player card game in which each player makes a sequence of decisions based on a partially-observed game state that evolves under uncertainty. In its casino variant, Blackjack is typically played as a set of separate contests, each involving a player and the dealer, whose decisions are determined according to a published, fixed policy. We have developed and used a sequence of assignments for an advanced artificial intelligence course in which students determine an optimal strategy for Blackjack, modeled as a Markov Decision Process. The course culminates in a Blackjack tournament in which agents employ policies students have determined through their analyses.
Project based clean tech curriculum for high school

United States renewable energy businesses require well trained high school and college students to fill key positions as technicians, engineers, and other high paying jobs. Project based learning programs offer a way to train students in these emerging fields with realistic, intensive student-designed and built projects. This paper reviews the challenges and some of the lessons learned in developing a four year high school curriculum in renewable energy and clean technology. A primary challenge in developing this kind of program is the time and complexity of gathering relevant technical material in this field and adapting it for high school students. Related to this challenge is the selection of projects that the students pursue. We've learned that these two challenges require a content area expert and substantial technical support to insure that student design projects are age and skill appropriate, safe for the class, but also keep students engaged. One key learning from this program has been the successful introduction of novel, table-top scale “minisystems” that emulate full scale projects such as electric vehicles. These minisystems are also low-cost enough so that a typical class can to assign one minisystem to a two person team. The renewable energy focus also enables the discussion of key environmental and economic challenges. Student designed and built thermal storage units mimic residential-scale systems. Energy arbitrage, the differential in peak and low demand prices for electricity, helps the students understand why and when these systems can be economical to operate. Other projects in biofuels also facilitate discussion about the sustainability of using food or other renewable natural resources for energy. Each course contains six to eight projects. Projects topics are developed through an interactive brainstorming session including leading teachers in the State and representatives from prominent local industry. The project topics are further refined to focus on a key problem area. This curriculum is currently in the pilot phase at numerous high schools in the Southeast.
Resistant hypertension, obstructive sleep apnoea and aldosterone

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and hypertension commonly coexist. Observational studies indicate that untreated OSA is strongly associated with an increased risk of prevalent hypertension, whereas prospective studies of normotensive cohorts suggest that OSA may increase the risk of incident hypertension. Randomized evaluations of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) indicate an overall modest effect on blood pressure (BP). Determining why OSA is so strongly linked to having hypertension in cross-sectional studies, but yet CPAP therapy has limited BP benefit needs further exploration. The CPAP studies do, however, indicate a wide variation in the BP effects of CPAP, with some patients manifesting a large antihypertensive benefit such that a meaningful BP effect can be anticipated in some individuals. OSA is particularly common in patients with resistant hypertension (RHTN). The reason for this high prevalence of OSA is not fully explained, but data suggest that it may be related to the high occurrence of hyperaldosteronism in patients with RHTN. In patients with RHTN, it has been shown that aldosterone levels correlate with severity of OSA and that blockade of aldosterone reduces the severity of OSA. Overall, these findings are consistent with aldosterone excess contributing to worsening of underlying OSA. We hypothesize that aldosterone excess worsens OSA by promoting accumulation of fluid within the neck, which then contributes to increased upper airway resistance.
ANION EFFECTS ON THE ADSORPTION OF ACETYLENE BY NICKEL HALIDES

The adsorption of acetylene on different nickel halides has been studied by ab initio molecular orbital calculations. The strength of adsorption on different nickel halides is calculated by ab initio molecular orbital calculation and it follows the order NiF2 > NiCl2 > NiBr2 > NiI2. The calculated heats of adsorption are 25.97, 20.42, 18.24, and 16.42 kcal/mol, respectively. The calculations are performed on C2H2, NiX2, and bonded C2H2−NiX2, at the HF/3-21G level for geometry optimization and B3LYP/3-21+G** level for a detailed analysis of the electronic distribution using natural bond orbital (NBO) theory. The bonding between acetylene and NiX2 involves three parts: (1) σ-donation (overlap of the 2px orbital of C with the 4s orbital of Ni), (2) electron redistribution (from the 4s orbital to the 3dxz orbital of Ni, and (3) d−π* back-donation (from the 3dyz orbital of Ni to the 2py*, or π*, orbital of C). The back-donation dominates the bonding. The three steps combined yield the minimum total energies.
Biases in Modified Contemporary Comparisons due to Year of Calving

Abstract Yearly sire summaries were calculated on each of 63 Holstein bulls with more than 3000 daughters. Each summary included all records on those daughters with a particular year of first freshening. A minimum of 100 daughters per year was required before summaries were included in the analysis. Modified Contemporary Deviations and approximated Herdmate Deviations were compared. Multiple regression analysis showed that year of first freshening accounted for .1% of the variation in Modified Contemporary Deviation but accounted for 4.3% of the variation in Herdmate Deviation when year of freshening was the only variable in the model. Sires accounted for a greater percentage of the total variance among Modified Contemporary Deviations (95.4%) than among Herdmate Deviations (89.7%) when included as the only variable in the model. When sire and year of first freshening were examined, the regression of Modified Contemporary Deviation on year was -6.4 kg while that for Herdmate Deviation was -26.7 kg. Corrections in Modified Contemporary Deviations for genetic merit of contemporary sires appeared to have removed a substantial portion of the bias that was in the Herdmate Comparison as the result of genetic trend.
Elimination of self-punitive behavior with a novel stimulus and safety signal

After escape training in an alley, rats received either nonpunished (NP) or punished (P) extinction, During extinction, NP and P groups received (a) a novel tone in the startbox, (b) a tone in the start- and goalboxes (the tone had been presented in the goalbox to these subgroups during acquisition—safety signal condition), or (c) no tone. Punishment produced greater resistance to extinction than nonpunishment (self-punitive effect) only under no-tone conditions. The elimination of self-punitive behavior with novel tone and safety signal treatment is consistent with the hypothesis that self-punitive running is motivated by excessive fear.
Causes of and clinical sequelae of delays in reporting species identification of mycobacteria other than Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium avium complex

We tracked cultures submitted to a laboratory in 2004 in which mycobacteria other than Mycobacterium tuberculosis or Mycobacterium avium complex were grown (n = 11). We reviewed clinical information, other mycobacterial cultures, and radiologic findings. We measured the time from specimen submission to first growth and to final species identification. We assessed the response to this information based on notes, laboratory tests, consultations, and radiology studies. The median time to identification was 68 days (47–292 days). In 5 cases, the clinician failed to retrieve the data, and in 3 of these cases, there was a resultant loss of opportunity to treat. In 3 cases, the laboratory never reported a definitive species, and in 3 cases, the culture results were clinically unimportant. We show that the results of positive cultures of these mycobacteria are effectively lost because they are not available in a timely fashion, and even when available, the results are overlooked.
Noise and noise figure of vertical-cavity semiconductor optical amplifiers (VCSOAs) operated in reflection mode

In this paper, the noise properties of vertical cavity semiconductor optical amplifiers (VCSOAs) operated in reflection mode are studied. Expressions for noise sources contributing to the total noise detected at amplifier output are derived, based on the photon statistics master equations. The noise figure, defined as the degradation of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), is analyzed using the assumption that spontaneous emission-signal beat noise dominates. The analysis shows that the noise figure of reflection mode VCSOAs has the same values as that in transmission mode as long as amplifier gain is high (G>>1). Furthermore, simulations depict the dependence of noise figure on device parameters and bias conditions, as well as reveal the importance of the low reflectivity front mirror and the high reflectivity rear mirror for low noise operation. In addition, the noise figure analysis results are compared with experimental measurements, in which amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) power is measured by an optical spectrum analyzer and the noise figure is obtained from the ASE power and the amplifier gain. The measured data are in good agreement with the theoretical predictions.
A numerical routine for the seasonal evolution of open-ocean water column temperature for use in biogeochemical studies

Abstract A method for the simulation of a one-dimensional seasonal cycle in oceanic surface layers is presented, which uses forcing from solar irradiance and wind. The simulation was tested using above-surface meteorological observations from the Northwest Atlantic Ocean, and model output compared favorably with surface temperature variability. The routines provide a useful tool for biogeochemical studies in the open ocean.
The effects of DMPP on adrenergic nerves in perfused hearts

Abstract Correlation of changes in the norepinephrine content with histochemically observed changes in adrenergic nerves within the perfused guinea-pig heart was made after intermittent injections of 1,1-dimethyl-4-phenylpiperazinium (DMPP). Heart rates and amplitude of contractions were also recorded for 2 hr. DMPP was administered to untreated hearts and to hearts of animals pretreated with α-methyl-p-tyrosine (α-MPT), H 22/54 [(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl) β-propylacetamide], or reserpine. Multiple injections of DMPP (2 hr) did not change the NE content of the ventricle. DMPP caused a significant decrease in ventricular NE in hearts of animals pretreated with α-MPT, H 22/54, or reserpine. Visualization of adrenergic nerves of the ventricles after DMPP administration showed a reduction in intensity of fluorescence only in hearts of animals pretreated with H 22/54 or reserpine. The explanation for the lack of visual discrimination of changes in fluorescence of the α-MPT-pretreated hearts is unknown. No change in intensity of fluorescence was noted in the chromaffin cells of the atria in any of the groups of animals studied. These experiments support the concept that certain ganglion stimulants, such as DMPP, serve to release the sympathetic neurohumor from the terminal ground plexus of nerve fibers within the heart. It also appears that release of NE is accompanied by a very efficient resynthesis within the nerve terminals.
AmpliChip for Cytochrome P-450 Genotyping: The Epoch of Personalized Prescriptions:

The clinical importance of genetic polymorphisms in drug metabolism is well-known in clinical pharmacotherapy. The first widely available pharmacogenomic microarray technology approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a medical device to clinically genotype genetic polymorphisms in drug metabolism is now available with the launch of AmpliChip technology. This readily accessible clinical microarray test allows the genotyping of cytochrome (CYP) P-450 2D6 and 2C19 and marks a milestone in the epoch of evidence based personalized medicine. Many commonly used drugs are substrates for CYP2D6 and CYP 2C19 and hence may potentially demonstrate phenotypic differences as poor, intermediate, extensive, and ultrarapid metabolizers. These phenotypic variations could lead to expressed differences in pharmacotherapeutic patient outcomes. AmpliChip currently allows for testing of multiple alleles (31) in a single assay. Other technologies for pharmacogenomics are on the horizon. This article reviews the importance...
SKIN LIPIDS. IV. BIOCHEMISTRY AND FUNCTION.

Metabolic processes and other types of alterations of the lipids of human skin are summarized and discussed. Known functions of skin lipids are discussed, and in the light of new data presented in the papers of this series, new functions are speculated upon.
Preparation of crotaline F-ab antivenom (CroFab®) with automated mixing methods: in vitro observations

Background. Crotaline Polyvalent Ovine Fab antivenom (CroFab®, Savage Laboratories and Protherics Inc., Brentwood, TN, USA) preparation requires that the lyophilized powder be manually reconstituted before use. We compared automated methods for driving the product into solution with the standard manual method of reconstitution, and the effect of repeated rinsing of the product vial, on the per-vial availability of antivenom. Methods. Normal saline (NS, 10 mL) was added to 12 vials of expired CroFab®. Vials were assigned in pairs to each of six mixing methods, including one pair mixed manually as recommended by the product package insert. Each vial's contents were diluted to a final volume of 75 mL of normal saline. Protein concentration was measured with a colorimetric assay. The fluid left in each vial was removed and the vial was washed with 10 mL NS. Results. Total protein yield from each step was calculated. There was no significant change in protein yield among three of five automated mixing methods ...
Evaluation of the fractal dimension as a pattern recognition feature using neural networks

In the past fractal dimension has often been computed using a stochastic approach based on a random walk process, which has been found to be very time consuming. More recently, mathematical morphology has been used to compute the fractal dimension in a more timely fashion. This paper describes how the fractal dimension computed using mathematical morphology can be used in the texture analysis of ultrasonic imagery. The discriminatory ability of the fractal dimension as a pattern recognition feature is evaluated and compared to more traditional parameters. This analysis includes comparisons with statistical features in which each parameter is treated as an independent variable and in which interactions between those variables are evaluated. Pattern recognition techniques include Stepwise Discriminant Analysis, Linear Discriminant Analysis, and Nearest Neighbor Analysis in addition to Backpropagation Neural Network Classifiers. Our results identify the fractal dimension as one of the most important parameters for distinguishing between normal and abnormal livers. In this study, consisting of 186 images, a significant statistical difference was found for both the mean and standard deviation of the fractal dimension between the normal and abnormal groups using parametric and nonparametric statistical techniques.
Focal Adhesion Mechanotransduction Regulates Stiffness-Directed Differentiation

Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are capable of differentiating into mesodermal lineages, with their fate mirroring the tissue lineage possessing a matching in vivo stiffness. The precise mechanisms responsible for this mechanotransduction-induced change in fate are unknown beyond the requirement for force transmission from the extracellular niche through to the nucleus. As a result of cellular contraction, linker proteins connecting the cytoskeleton to the extracellular matrix (ECM) are exposed to differing levels of force and deform to different extents based on the adjacent ECM’s stiffness. Therefore, some of these linker proteins could act as ‘molecular strain gauges,’ as they have been shown to unfold in response to this force. The unfolding process could result in exposure of cryptic binding sites and induction of new signaling pathways. For example, talin exposes multiple vinculin binding sites under physiological force [1]. Vinculin binds at either end to talin and actin and is thought to change its conformation in conjunction with this force [2] similar to how a strain gauge works. Here we show that force-dependent changes in vinculin recruit MAPK1, inducing a signaling cascade that results in the expression of myogenic markers. Together these data suggest that specific proteins may act as ‘molecular strain gauges’ and play a role in mechanosensitive stem cell differentiation.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Mechanism of the antihypertensive effect of propranolol.

Abstract Propranolol is indicated in the management of essential hypertension. Among the factors that may be involved in propranolol-induced lowering of blood pressure are: (1) suppression of cardiac output, (2) inhibition of renin release, (3) diminution of tonic sympathetic outflow from the vasomotor center in the brain, (4) restoration of defective vascular relaxation and, (5) inhibition of presynaptic β-receptors. But all these factors do not explain sufficiently how beta-blockade lowers blood pressure. In our laboratory, prolonged treatment of spontaneously hypertensive rats with propranolol causes a reduction in adrenal tyrosine hydroxylase activity. The resultant reduced synthesis of catecholamines may lead to a decrease in the amout of amine available for release. This would result in decreased smooth muscle tone and could explain the hypotensive effect of the drug in the hypertensive patient.
Improved fixation of the pigeon brain by transcardiac carotid catheterization.

Abstract We describe a technique of selective and controlled fixation of the brain and upper spinal cord in the adult pigeon by in vivo transcardiac bilateral carotid catheterization and pump perfusion. We were unable to achieve adequate and repeated fixation of these structures for histochemical techniques in the pigeon using the conventional intracardiac perfusion techniques described for mammals. Our intracarotid technique yields a blood-free and well fixed brain and upper spinal cord. A series of intracarotid pump perfusions (saline, fixative, and sucrose buffer) has significantly reduced histochemical processing time by allowing immediate cryosectioning of the dissected brain.