cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Conformational control through translocational regulation: a new view of secretory and membrane protein folding.

We suggest a new view of secretory and membrane protein folding that emphasizes the role of pathways of biogenesis in generating functional and conformational heterogeneity. In this view, heterogeneity results from action of accessory factors either directly binding specific sequences of the nascent chain, or indirectly, changing the environment in which a particular domain is synthesized. Entrained by signaling pathways, these variables create a combinatorial set of necessary-but-not-sufficient conditions that enhance synthesis and folding of particular alternate, functional, conformational forms. We therefore propose that protein conformation is productively regulated by the cell during translocation across the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), a concept that may account for currently poorly understood aspects of physiological function, natural selection, and disease pathogenesis.
Structure approach in rhinoplasty

Over the past decade, rhinoplasty techniques have moved away from excisional methods and focused more on repositioning and restructuring existing tissues. These changes in surgical technique were made in part because of some of the untoward long-term complications noted in noses that were treated with excisional techniques. The incidence of many of these complications is greater in patients with certain nasal anatomy. It is the responsibility of the surgeon to identify these anatomic variants and make necessary adjustments in surgical technique to avoid complications.
Microinjection of codeine into the region of the caudal ventral respiratory column suppresses cough in anesthetized cats.

We investigated the influence of microinjection of codeine into the caudal ventral respiratory column (cVRC) on the cough reflex. Experiments were performed on 36 anesthetized spontaneously breathi...
Synthesis of Adaptive and Controllable Compliant Systems With Embedded Actuators and Sensors

We present a framework for the design of a compliant system, i.e., the concurrent design of a compliant mechanism with embedded actuators and sensors. Our methods simultaneously synthesize optimal structural topology and component placement for maximum energy efficiency and adaptive performance, while satisfying various weight and performance constraints. The goal of this research is to lay an algorithmic framework for distributed actuation and sensing within a compliant active structure. Key features of the methodology include (1) the simultaneous optimization of the location, orientation, and size of actuators (and sensors) concurrent with the compliant transmission topology, and (2) the implementation of controllability and observability concepts (both arising from consideration of control) in compliant systems design. The methods used include genetic algorithms, graph searches for connectivity, and multiple load cases implemented with linear finite element analysis. Actuators, modeled as both force generators and structural compliant elements, are included as topology variables in the optimization. The results from the controllability problem are used to motivate and describe the analogous extension to observability for sensing. Results are provided for several studies, including (1) concurrent actuator placement and topology design for a compliant amplifier, (2) a shape-morphing aircraft wing demonstration with three controlled output nodes, and (3) a load-distribution sensing wing structure with internal sensors. Central to this method is the concept of structure/component orthogonality, which refers to the unique system response for each component (actuator or sensor) it contains.
Uniaxial Constitutive Equation of Ice From Beam Tests

On propose une methode pour obtenir des contraintes uniaxiale dues a la glace, des relations de taux de tension a partir des essais de flexion. L'avantage de base de la technique analytique proposee est que c'est une methode directe pour reduire les donnees d'essai de flexion
Pathology of Experimental Ovine Leptospirosis, Leptospira Pomona Infection

Ten apparently normal lambs, four to five months of age, weighing 50 to 88 pounds, served as experimental animals. The serums of these lambs were negative for L. pomona agglutinins. One group of five lambs (905, 906, 907, 926 and 975) was infected with L. pomona of bovine origin. A second group of three lambs (901, 921 and 931) was inoculated with L. pomona of porcine origin. A third group of two lambs (925 and 951) was placed in a pen with hogs infected with the bovine leptospiral strain and developed the disease from contact Two lambs were used as controls. The lambs were killed at different intervals
Effects of Low Temperature Treatment at Seedling Stage on Soybean Growth, Development and Final Yield

The after effect of continuous and variable chilling temperatures acting periodically for 7 days at seedling stage (day/night : 2/2 °C, 5 /5 °C, 15/2 °C, 15/5 °C, 15/15 °C and control-22/18 °C) on growth, development and final yield of soybean cultivar Polan and Progres were investigated. The temperature decrease lengthened the duration of the vegetation period before flowering for both cultivars, which allowed compensation for the reduced-as an effect of chilling-rate of daily increments in the leaf area and the dry weight of the above-ground parts of the plants. The most important symptom of chilling treatment was a considerable increase in the number of axillary branches after flowering, which caused an increase in the dry weight of plants. The subsequent reaction of the growth of leaves to chilling at seedling stage was, after flowering, variety dependent. The area of leaves bigger at Polan or similar to control at Progres ensured good seed filling in an increased number of pods developed on axillary branches. Chill-induced delay in plants development allowed the avoidance of low temperature occurring during flowering in this experiment. This chilling during flowering was one of the reasons of worse-pod setting and reduction of seeds per pod number at control plants.
Ta and TaN adhesion to high-temperature fluorinated polyimides. Surface and interface chemistry

The practical adhesion of Cu/Ta to high-temperature fluorinated polyimides (FPIs) was initially good but failed after the reliability test involving treatment under the FPI curing condition five times (T5). But a thin layer (40 nm) of TaN greatly improved the reliability of the Cu/Ta-to-FPI adhesion. Both CF4 and in situ Ar plasma treatments of FPIs prior to metal deposition enhanced the metal-to-FPI adhesion strength. CF4 plasma enriches the FPI surface with fluorine atoms and most of fluorine is bound to carbon as CF3, CF2, and CF. Ar plasma first destroys CF3 and then C=O groups of the FPIs to yield a polar surface. The locus of failure by a 90° peel test was found to be within the Ar-plasma-modified FPI layer but it moved toward the bulk of FPI, i.e. away from the metal-polymer interface, after the T5 reliability test. The locus of failure in the case of weak adhesion where no plasma treatment was done on FPI films was in the near-interface region within the FPI layer, and the failure seemed to occur ...
Treatment of children with peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor or extraosseous Ewing's tumor with Ewing's-directed therapy.

Purpose: We report the treatment and outcome of patients with peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) and extraosseous Ewing's tumor (EOE) using Ewing's-directed therapy, including an ifosfamide and etoposide window. Methods: Seventeen pediatric patients with peripheral PNET (n = 14) or EOE (n = 3) were enrolled between 1988 and 1992 on our institutional Ewing's protocol. Induction therapy comprised a 9-week “window” of ifosfamide and etoposide, followed by 9 weeks of therapy with cyclophosphamide and Adriamycin (Adria Laboratories, Columbus, OH). Response assessment after 17 weeks was followed by surgery and/or radiotherapy (doses based on tumor size and response to induction), repeat evaluation, and maintenance chemotherapy with alternating courses of vincristine/dactinomycin, ifosfamide/etoposide, and cyclophosphamide/Adriamycin for a total of 45 weeks. Results: At diagnosis, 8 patients had large lesions (>8 cm) and 3 had pulmonary metastases (1 with large tumor). Surgical resection was performed at diagnosis for 9 patients and after induction therapy for 5. During window therapy, all of the 9 evaluable patients responded (8 partial, 1 objective), and no patient without measurable disease developed disease progression. Responses were maintained or improved during subsequent induction in six of the patients with residual disease. Fourteen patients received local radiotherapy. At 49 to 94 months after diagnosis, 12 patients are disease-free (1 in second remission), 4 have died, and 1 is alive with disease. The five-year overall and progression-free survival rates are 77 ± 13% and 62 ± 16%, respectively. Conclusion: The use of consistent Ewing's-directed combined-modality therapy for patients with soft tissue peripheral PNET/EOE results in survival similar to that of patients with osseous Ewing's tumor. The combination of ifosfamide and etoposide appears active and should be incorporated in future treatment protocols.
Influences of prostanoids and nitric oxide on post-suspension hypotension in female Sprague–Dawley rats

Impairment in cardiovascular functions sometimes manifested in astronauts during standing postflight, may be related to the diminished autonomic function and/or excessive production of endothelium-dependent relaxing factors. In the present study, using the 30 degrees head-down tilt (HDT) model, we compared the cardiovascular and biochemical effects of 7 days of suspension and a subsequent 6-h post-suspension period between suspended and non-suspended conscious female Sprague-Dawley rats. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate were measured prior to suspension (basal), daily thereafter, and every 2h post-suspension. Following 7 days of suspension, MAP was not different from their basal values, however, upon release from suspension, MAP was significantly reduced compared to the non-suspended rats. Nitric oxide levels were elevated while thromboxane A(2) levels declined significantly in both plasma and tissue samples following post-suspension. The levels of prostacyclin following post-suspension remained unaltered in plasma and aortic rings but was significantly elevated in carotid arterial rings. Therefore, the post-suspension reduction in mean arterial pressure is due mostly to overproduction of nitric oxide and to a lesser extent prostacyclin.
Effects of Sodium Intake, Furosemide, and Infusion of Atrial Natriuretic Peptide on the Urinary and Metabolic Clearances of Arginine Vasopressin in Normal Subjects*

Arginine vasopressin (AVP) and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) have important influences on water and electrolyte metabolism, and studies on the interactions between these hormones may have important implications. We have investigated the effects of sodium intake, furosemide, and infusion of ANP on the urinary and metabolic (nonurinary) clearances of AVP in hydrated normal subjects. On a high sodium diet there was an increase in urine volume, sodium excretion, osmolal clearance, plasma ANP concentration, and urinary clearance and fractional excretion of AVP, with a decrease in PRA. The infusion of furosemide increased urine volume, sodium excretion, osmolal clearance, and PRA, but decreased circulating ANP levels and urinary clearance and fractional excretion of AVP. Since there was a positive correlation between circulating ANP and urinary clearance of AVP in these experiments, we infused human alpha ANP in physiological amounts and found increases in the urinary and metabolic (nonurinary) clearances of AVP. The changes in urinary clearance of AVP in all three experiments occurred even in relation to creatinine clearance. These observations demonstrate that urinary clearance of AVP does not correlate with urine volume, sodium or solute excretion, or PRA. The observations support a physiological role for ANP in modulating the renal action of AVP, probably at the level of the renal tubules, and indicate a need for caution when using plasma or urinary AVP as an indicator of AVP release from the neurohypophysis.
A case study on designing interfaces for multiple users in developing regions

Computer assisted learning (or E-learning) is used broadly in the developed world. However, comparable technologies are only recently beginning to be used in rural and developing regions. In these environments, obstacles to the successful deployment of educational software include a lack of basic infrastructure, low student attendance, necessary sharing of resources, and the participants'---both teachers and students---unfamiliarity with communications technology. To illustrate these issues in detail, we present a design study for Metamouse, a system for sharing single user software on a single computer with multiple mice.We designed Metamouse during a one and a half month long study in low-income primary schools in Bangalore, India. We iterated through two primary usage paradigms, competitive and collaborative, working with grade four and five students. In these populations, we found that students had widely varying mouse skills, and that even amongst competent users, interface confusion presented significant barriers. Given this, interface tasks that are known to have a cost in usability, such as mode switching or complicated interaction models, had a severe impact on students' ability to use the technology. We discuss interface issues that result from sharing practices that are the norm in these regions. We also discuss issues that generalize across educational application design in the developing world.
Gender differences in the association between psychopathic personality traits and cortisol response to induced stress.

Blunted stress reactivity has been implicated in the development of psychopathic personality traits. Cortisol is a biological marker of stress reactivity that has received little attention in prior psychopathy studies. The current investigation proposed that inhibition of cortisol response to induced stress is a reliable marker for psychopathic personality traits. An extreme groups methodology was used to recruit a mixed-gender sample of 84 college students characterized by high and low scores on the Levenson Self-Report Psychopathy Scale. Participants provided saliva samples prior to and after a well-established stress induction procedure (i.e., Trier Social Stress Test). These samples were assessed for cortisol (μg/dL) using an enzyme immunoassay procedure. Consistent with prediction, male participants high in psychopathic personality traits lacked stress induced increases in cortisol displayed by males low in psychopathic personality traits. This effect was not present in female participants. These findings suggest that cortisol production is a gender-specific marker for psychopathic personality traits.
Tricuspid valve repair with left ventricular assist device implantation: is it warranted?

Background Tricuspid regurgitation is common in patients with advanced heart failure. The ideal operative strategy for managing tricuspid valve regurgitation (TR) in patients undergoing left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation is unclear. This study was designed to evaluate the effect on outcomes of concomitant tricuspid valve repair (TVR) for moderate to severe (3 + /4 + ) TR at the time of LVAD implantation. Methods Patients with >3 + TR who underwent LVAD implantation from 2005 to 2009 were retrospectively evaluated. Pre-, intra- and post-operative data, including hemodynamics, inotrope requirements and end-organ function parameters, were considered. Outcomes of patients receiving TVR were compared with those who did not receive TVR (NTVR). Results Seventy-two LVADs were implanted during the study period. Forty-two (58%) patients had ≥3 + TR prior to LVAD implantation. Eight patients underwent TVR and 34 patients did not undergo TVR (NTVR). There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics or severity of TR between the two groups. The TVR group had a longer cardiopulmonary bypass time (p Conclusions TVR for ≥3 + TR prolonged operative time and showed similar outcomes compared with LVAD implantation alone. A benefit of performing TVR was not demonstrated. As such, TVR may not be necessary at the time of LVAD implantation.
Dynamics of Metapopulations with Demographic Stochasticity and Environmental Catastrophes

Abstract In the first part of the paper, a method is developed for computing extinction properties of populations that are subject to demographic and environmental noise (catastrophes). The theory requires estimation of demographic birth and death rates, rates of catastrophes, and distribution of deaths when catastrophes occur. The colonization probability (chance of successful immigration), mean extinction time, and the long time conditional distribution of population size are predicted. The results can be put into algorithmic form so that workers can concentrate on developing parameters from empirical data. In the second part, the results are compared to the exact solution of a model (due to MacArthur and Wilson) without catastrophes and shown to be extremely accurate. The MacArthur-Wilson model is then extended to include environmental catastrophes. Finally, a metapopulation model with linear birth and death rates, immigration, catastrophes occurring at a rate independent of population size, and individuals dying independently is proposed.
GM1 Ganglioside in the Treatment of Parkinson's Diseasea

Since the early 1980s, numerous studies have been reported by laboratories around the world documenting the beneficial effects of GM1 ganglioside treatment on the damaged dopamine system in various animal and in vitro models. Based on the strength of these data, the first clinical studies designed to assess the efficacy and safety of chronic GM1 use in the treatment of Parkinson's disease were performed. In a double-blind placebo-controlled study, significant improvements in GM1-treated patients were demonstrated in clinical motor ratings, timed tests of motor function, activities of daily living, and some aspects of neuropsychological functioning. Patients who have elected to continue using GM1 in an open extension trial have either continued to improve over time or have shown initial functional improvements and their disease has remained stable (i.e., no symptom progression) after two years. These results suggest that long-term use of GM1 is safe and may work to partially reverse the degenerative process in established Parkinson's disease patients.
Predicting national direct student loan defaults: The role of personality data

The purpose of this study was to determine if National Direct Student Loan defaulters could be differentiated from payers by using information available at the time the loan is made. Data from 686 repayers and 192 nonpayers were analyzed. It was found that a combination of five student characteristics was all that was needed to accurately predict which students would not repay their loans. The combination of factors which proved to have predictive value in order of importance were: grade point average at the time of the loan, ACT composite score, OPI complexity scale, the OPI anxiety level scale, and the size of the loan. The most striking outcome was that personality measures have strong predictive value in identifying future defaulters. Further validation of these findings is underway.
Family Support in Prevention Programs for Children at Risk for Emotional/Behavioral Problems.

We conducted a review of empirically based prevention programs to identify prevalence and types of family support services within these programs. A total of 238 articles published between 1990 and 2011 that included a family support component were identified; 37 met criteria for inclusion. Following the Institute of Medicine's typology, prevention programs were categorized as universal, selective, or indicated; programs containing more than one prevention level were characterized as multi-level. Family support types included those led by a mental health professional, led by a peer, or team-led. Among the 37 prevention programs reviewed, 27% (n=10) were universal, 41% (n=15) were selective, 16% (n=6) were indicated, and 16% (n=6) were multi-level. The predominant model of family support was professionally led (95%, n=35). Two (n=5%) provided team-led services. None were purely peer-led. In terms of content of family support services, all (100%, n=37) provided instruction/skill build. Information and education was provided by 70% (n=26), followed by emotional support (n=11, 30%) and instrumental or concrete assistance (n=11, 30%). Only 14% (n=5) provided assistance with advocacy. The distribution of models and content of services in prevention studies differ from family support within treatment studies. As family support is likely to be an enduring component of the child and family mental health service continuum, comparative effectiveness studies are needed to inform future development.
A model of working memory capacity in the radial-arm maze task

Abstract The radial arm maze is one of the most commonly used tests for assessing working memory in laboratory animals. However, to date, there exists no quantitative method of estimating working memory capacity from performance on this task. Here, we present a mathematical model of performance on the radial arm maze from which we can derive estimates of capacity. We derive explicit results for the two most commonly used measures of performance as functions of number of arms in the maze and memory capacity, assuming a uniform random search. We simulate random non-uniform search strategies. Comparing our model to previous experiments, we show that our model predicts a working memory capacity in the range of 3–9 at the level of performance observed in these experiments. This estimate is within the typical estimate of human working memory capacity. Performance of rats on large mazes (e.g. 48 arms) has been used as evidence that the working memory capacity of rats may be significantly larger than that of humans. We report that memory capacity in the range 3–9 is sufficient to explain the performance of rats in very large radial mazes. Furthermore, when we simulate non-uniform random search strategies observed in the experiments, the resulting estimates do not differ significantly from those assuming a uniform random search. We conclude that a list-based model of working memory with modest capacity is more powerful than previously expected.
Analysis of competition binding assays: assessment of the range of validity of a commonly invoked assumption

AbstractA common assumption invoked in the analysis of competition binding assays is that the fractional saturation of sites with the unlabeled ligand is given by 1 - (the concentration of bound labeled ligand in the presence of unlabeled ligand)/(the concentration of bound labeled ligand in the absence of unlabeled ligand). This assumption is critically evaluated in the context of several binding models: (a) binding of univalent ligands to multiple classes of equivalent and independent sites, with and without nonspecific binding; (b) cooperative binding of univalent ligands; and (c) binding of multivalent ligands to a single class of univalent acceptors. We show that the conventional assumption is only valid when the labeled ligand is mainly in the free form, occupies a small fraction of the total sites and binds univalently to all sites in an equivalent and independent manner, and when the unlabeled ligand forms l : l complexes with the acceptor sites. When these conditions are satisfied, the convention...
Reactions of Superoxo and Oxo Metal Complexes with Aldehydes. Radical-Specific Pathways for Cross-Disproportionation of Superoxometal Ions and Acylperoxyl Radicals

The aquachromyl(IV) ion, CraqO2+, reacts with acetaldehyde and pivaldehyde by hydrogen atom abstraction and, in the presence of O2, produces acylperoxyl radicals, RC(O)OO•. In the next step, the radicals react with CraqOO2+, a species accompanying CraqO2+ in our preparations. The rate constant for the CraqOO2+/CH3C(O)OO• cross reaction, kCr = 1.5 × 108 M-1 s-1, was determined by laser flash photolysis. The evidence points to radical coupling at the remote oxygen of CraqOO2+, followed by elimination of O2 and formation of CH3COOH and CrVaqO3+. The latter disproportionates and ultimately yields Craq3+ and HCrO4-. No CO2 was detected. The CraqOO2+/C(CH3)3C(O)OO• reaction yielded isobutene, CO2, and Craq3+, in addition to chromate. In the suggested mechanism, the transient CraqOOOO(O)CC(CH3)32+ branches into two sets of products. The path leading to chromate resembles the CH3C(O)OO• reaction. The other products arise from an unprecedented intramolecular hydrogen transfer from the tert-butyl group to the CrO e...
Steroid sulfatase activity and expression in mammary myoepithelial cells.

Abstract Purpose : This investigation examined mRNA expression and enzymatic activity of steroid sulfatase (STS) in human mammary myoepithelial cells (MMECs) and MCF-7 cells and assessed the effects of 17-β estradiol on the activity of STS. Methods : The mRNA level of STS in MMECs was determined by RT–PCR analysis using specific primers for STS. STS enzymatic activity prior to and after treatment with 17-β estradiol was determined by measuring 3 H -metabolites formed after exposure to [ 3 H ]estrone 3-sulfate (E1S) and [ 3 H ]dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEA-S). Results : Our data demonstrate the presence of STS in the MMECs. Based on RT–PCR analysis, MMECs had slightly lower levels of STS compared to MCF-7 cells. However, sulfatase activity was about 120 times greater in the MMECs than the MCF-7 cells (E1S V max =2640 nmol/(mg DNA h) compared to 20.9 nmol/(mg DNA h)). Exposure to 17-β estradiol was associated with 70% reduction in E1S sulfatase activity in the MCF-7 cells and 9% increase in the MMECs after 6 days. Discussion : Our studies indicate for the first time the presence of STS in MMECs. This is suggestive of a previously undetermined role for MMECs in converting precursor hormones into active steroid hormones within mammary tissue. In addition, differential response of the MMECs and the MCF-7 cells to estrogen demonstrates differences in hormone metabolism between these two cell types, perhaps related to the absence of estrogen receptors in the MMECs and their presence in the MCF-7 cells. The MMECs may have an important role in hormonal regulation within mammary tissue.
Nonstationary seasonality of upper ocean temperature in the California Current

[1] State-space models are used to examine long-term changes in the seasonal amplitude and phase of upper ocean temperatures from a set of time series representing the meridional and offshore extent of the California Current System (CCS). We use global one-degree summaries from the World Ocean Database at 11 locations and 10 standard depths in the upper 200 m for the period 1950–1993. The seasonality of upper ocean temperature in the CCS is highly nonstationary, with significant interannual to decadal changes in seasonal amplitude and phase apparent over the period of study. The 1950s and early 1990s were characterized by high seasonal variability in upper ocean temperatures, while the intervening years were characterized by a reduced seasonal cycle. Long-term changes in phase were also observed, with seasonal extrema occurring 1–2 months earlier in the year by the 1990s. The leading common seasonal components, dominated by the longer (yearly, 6-month, 4-month) periodicities, explain most of the seasonal fluctuations in the temperature series and partition the variance into well-defined dynamic regions. In particular, long-term changes in seasonality at 30–75 m in the major coastal upwelling centers (34°N–38°N) differed from that observed north of Cape Mendocino, within the Southern California Bight, and farther offshore. The observed spatial patterns suggest that the changes in temperature seasonality off central California reflect a significant low-frequency modulation of the intensity, timing, and duration of coastal upwelling in the CCS. This nonstationarity of the seasonal temperature cycle is superimposed on both a region-wide warming trend and spatially heterogeneous responses to low-frequency climate events, such as regime shifts and El Nino events. Results from this study demonstrate that the character and potential biological impacts of climate variability can only be fully realized by considering a nonstationary, nondeterministic seasonal cycle.
meso-Tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)porphyrin-derived chromene-annulated chlorins

The synthesis of mono- and bis-chromene-annulated meso-(pentafluorophenyl)chlorins from meso-tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)porphyrins by an OsO4-mediated dihydroxylation reaction, followed by an intramolecular nucleophilic aromatic substitution reaction, is described. The reaction sequence is applicable to the free base systems as well as their Zn(II), Ni(II), Pd(II), and Pt(II) complexes. The optical properties (UV–vis and fluorescence spectra) of the (metallo)chlorin-like chromophores that possess slightly red-shifted optical spectra compared to the corresponding 2,3-dihydroxychlorins are reported. Molecular modeling and 1H–19F-HOESY NMR spectroscopy provide indications for the conformation of the chromene-annulated chromophores. Using 1H–1H COSY and 19F–19F QF-COSY NMR spectra, we interpret the 1H and 19F NMR spectra of the porphyrins and chlorins, thus providing a refined reference point for the use of 19F NMR spectroscopy as a diagnostic tool in the analysis of meso-pentafluorophenyl-substituted porphyr...
Quantum diffusion of isotopic impurities in solid4He and solid H2.

Abstract The temperature dependence of the diffusion of3He impurities in solid4He and HD impurities in solid para-H2 is calculated for the regime where coherent motion of the isotopic impurities is interrupted by scattering from vacancies or phonons. In both cases the best fit to the experimental data is obtained using a model including vacancy scattering rather than phonon scattering.
Microengineered synthetic cellular microenvironment for stem cells

Stem cells possess the ability of self-renewal and differentiation into specific cell types. Therefore, stem cells have great potentials in fundamental biology studies andclinicalapplications.Themosturgentdesireforstemcellresearchistogenerate appropriate artificial stem cell culture system, which can mimic the dynamic complexity and precise regulation of the in vivo biochemical and biomechanical signals, to regulate and direct stem cell behaviors. Precise control and regulation of the biochemical and biomechanical stimuli to stem cells have been successfully achieved using emerging micro/nanoengineering techniques. This review provides insights into how these micro/nanoengineering approaches, particularly microcontact printing and elastomeric micropost array, are applied to create dynamic and complex environment for stem cells culture. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. How to cite this article:
Sepsis due to superinfected varicella? A case of a challenging rash.

A 6-year-old boy with no significant medical history and up-to-date immunizations presented to the emergency department (ED) with diffuse rash, leg swelling, and respiratory distress. Five days before presentation, the patient twisted his ankle while playing soccer and developed mild swelling. The following day he developed a fever and was brought to his pediatrician; he was diagnosed with an ankle sprain and a viral illness and was managed with ibuprofen and supportive care. On the day of presentation, he developed a vesicular rash that started on his forehead and spread over his entire body. In the ED, he was febrile (temperature: 102°F), tachypneic (respiratory rate: 42 breaths per minute), tachycardic (heart rate: 155 beats per minute), hypotensive (80/50 mm Hg), and lethargic. His physical examination was notable for a tense and swollen lower left leg from 2 cm below the knee to the dorsum of the foot, with decreased but palpable pulses. He also had diffuse 2- to 4-mm pink, umbilicated vesicles involving his face, trunk, and extremities (Figs 1 and 2). Although inconsistent with the patient’s history, these lesions raised concern for varicella. FIGURE 1 Umbilicated vesicles on the abdomen. FIGURE 2 Crusted vesicles on the face. In the ED, the patient was started on intravenous ampicillin-sulbactam and vancomycin because of his toxic appearance and the presence of skin lesions. Chest radiography revealed reticulonodular densities throughout the lungs bilaterally as well as small bilateral pleural effusions. Results of admission laboratory tests were pertinent for a complete blood cell count with depressed cell lines and elevated inflammatory markers. His white blood cell count was 1.2 K/μL, hemoglobin was 9.2 g/dL, and platelets were 36 K/μL. His C-reactive protein level was 24.5 mg/dL, and creatine kinase was 349 U/L. Results of coagulation studies were within normal limits, but fibrinogen and d-dimer levels were elevated (738 …
Pressures in the pial arterial microcirculation of the cat during changes in systemic arterial blood pressure.

Dynamic arterial blood pressures were recorded by micropuncture of 99 cortical surface arteries and arterioles in cats anesthetized with pentobarbital or chloralose and urethane, using the Wiederhielm servocontrolled micropipette pressure system incorporating pipette tips less than 0.5µ in diameter. During these measurements, systemic blood pressure was varied by supplemental intravenous administration of barbiturate, by intravenous administration of norepinephrine, or by arterial hemorrhage and reinfusion. Pial arterial blood pressure varied systematically with the changes in systemic blood pressure, forming a basis for analysis and synthesis of the results. Measurements in individual vessels indicated that the range of pressures and of pressure responses of the cortical surface vessels was variable with both vessel size and prevailing end-expiratory gas CO2 content. Pooled data indicated that 39% of the loss in pressure head occurred in arteries upstream from the largest (300µ or more in diameter) surfa...
Hunger in red imported fire ants and their behavioral response to two liquid bait products.

To help manage red imported Þre ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren, invasion, several types of pest management systems have been developed, including baits. To accurately test liquid bait effectiveness in the laboratory, we determined that starvation time of 96 h is required for laboratory Þre ants to simulate foraging ants in the Þeld. We measured density and viscosity of two commercial baits and 20% sugar water at 25C and then compared amount of material consumed per ant at these physical properties. Mean densities of 20% sugar water, Dr. Moss, and Terro were 1.051, 1.287, and 1.354 g/ml, respectively, and viscosity of each bait treatment varied in the same order but more drastically (1.7, 32, and 400 centipoises, respectively). Field and laboratory studies demonstrated that bait acceptability may be affected by toxicant and physical properties. Baits that are more dense have more mass per volume and may cause the ant to cease feeding with a lower crop load than when they feed on sugar water. Ants that feed on formulated baits exhibit feeding behaviors different from those that occur when feeding on sugar water. At Þrst glance, one might conclude that the difference is because of the toxicant, but our Þndings suggest that physical properties of baits may be a factor in this change in feeding behavior.
Response to the letter from Dr. Szarewski.

In this response to a letter to the editor sent by Dr. Szarewski the author defends the conclusions made in the discussion section of the paper “Recent combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) and the risk of thromboembolism and other cardiovascular events in new users.” Criticisms arose concerning the adjustment of age and body mass index (BMI) for venous thromboembolism (VTE) reported hazards. While the concern that “new-users” could simply have taken a break and been using combined oral contraceptives (COCs) for years is plausible the author confirms that selection criteria were applied to reduce the probability of such an event. The author disagrees with the statement that publicity regarding the risk of VTE with drosperinone (DRSP)-containing pills would certainly have led to detection bias. Finally with regard the apparent inconsistency that Dr. Szarewski describes between the lack of an association between DRSP-containing contraceptive use and mortality in the face of findings of increased risk of VTE and arterial thrombotic event (ATE) it is important to note that VTE and ATE are relatively rare events in younger women even with the risk elevations that are present for COCs. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Captopril Withdrawal after Chronic Therapy

Sudden symptomatic increases in blood pressure may result from withdrawal of antihypertensive drug therapy. Captopril, an orally active angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, was abruptly withdrawn from the antihypertensive regimen of 6 patients (5 males; aged 31 to 58) with moderate to severe hypertension. The patients had received captopril (50-450 mg/day), diuretics, and in 2 cases, propranolol for 3-13 months; all drugs other than captopril were continued during the study. Blood pressure increased gradually in all patients from a mean (+/- SEM) of 135/92 +/- 5/2 mm Hg to 164/111 +/- 8/3 mm Hg in the 14 to 156 hours following captopril withdrawal, without the occurrence of symptoms. No "rebound" increase in blood pressure was noted. Plasma renin activity decreased, plasma aldosterone and serum angiotensin II concentrations increased and plasma catecholamine concentrations did not change during this time. These changes are consistent with the cessation of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition. Reinstitution of captopril reduced blood pressure to the previous nadir suggesting a lack of tolerance to its effects after chronic therapy.
Child-Rearing Difficulties Reported by Parents of Infants and Toddlers

Surveyed a nonclinical sample of 413 parents of infants and toddlers about childrearing difficulties, child behavior problems, and their own needs for support. Despite their high educational and income level, the parents surveyed reported raising young children to be a difficult task. Most concerns centered on children's irritating but developmentally typical behavior such as whining, noncompliance with adult requests, and interruption of adult activities. Parental reports of difficulties were highest for parents with more than one child and when children were past their second birthday.
The role of the putative catalytic base in the phosphoryl transfer reaction in a protein kinase: first-principles calculations.

Protein kinases are important enzymes controlling the majority of cellular signaling events via a transfer of the γ-phosphate of ATP to a target protein. Even after many years of study, the mechanism of this reaction is still poorly understood. Among many factors that may be responsible for the 1011-fold rate enhancement due to this enzyme, the role of the conserved aspartate (Asp166) has been given special consideration. While the essential presence of Asp166 has been established by mutational studies, its function is still debated. The general base catalyst role assigned to Asp166 on the basis of its position in the active site has been brought into question by the pH dependence of the reaction rate, isotope measurements, and pre-steady-state kinetics. Recent semiempirical calculations have added to the controversy surrounding the role of Asp166 in the catalytic mechanism. No major role for Asp166 has been found in these calculations, which have predicted the reaction process consisting of an early tran...
Performance of a WSN in the Presence of Channel Variations and Interference

The broadcast capacity of a wireless sensor network (WSN) is defined as the maximum rate at which the network may generate messages intended for distribution to the entire network. Broadcast capacity is limited by factors such as communication collisions and excessive queue lengths incurred under heavy loads. Collisions may be avoided through the use of communication coordination (CC), and excessive queue lengths may be avoided through information coordination (IC), ensuring that only useful messages are transmitted and stored. Our communication model takes into consideration channel variations (using Rayleigh fading) and interference due to overlapping transmissions. Any node's transmission can potentially reach every other node in the network, provided that the received signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR) at the receiver is above a certain threshold. Our results show the benefits of IC and CC as well as the tradeoffs in terms of the cost incurred when using these mechanisms.
Soil CO2 concentration does not affect growth or root respiration in bean or citrus

Contrasting effects of soil CO2 concentration on root respiration rates during short-term CO2 exposure, and on plant growth during long-term CO2 exposure, have been reported, Here we examine the effects of both short-and long-term exposure to soil CO2 on the root respiration of intact plants and on plant growth for bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and citrus (Citrus volkameriana Tan. & Pasq.). For rapidly growing bean plants, the growth and maintenance components of root respiration were separated to determine whether they differ in sensitivity to soil CO2, Respiration rates of citrus roots were unaffected by the CO2 concentration used during the respiration measurements (200 and 2000 mu mol mol(-1)), regardless of the soil CO2 concentration during the previous month (600 and 20 000 mu mol mol(-1)). Bean plants were grown with their roots exposed to either a natural CO2 diffusion gradient, or to an artificially maintained CO2 concentration of 600 or 20 000 mu mol mol(-1), These treatments had no effect on shoot and root growth, Growth respiration and maintenance respiration of bean roots were also unaffected by CO2 pre-treatment and the CO2 concentration used during the respiration measurements (200-2000 mu mol mol(-1)). We conclude that soil CO2 concentrations in the range likely to be encountered in natural soils do not affect root respiration in citrus or bean. [KEYWORDS: Citrus volkameriana L.; Phaseolus vulgaris L.; citrus; common bean; growth analysis; root respiration; soil CO2 concentration Carbon-dioxide; plants; o2]
Quantitative Trait Locus Analysis of Atherosclerosis in an Intercross Between C57BL/6 and C3H Mice Carrying the Mutant Apolipoprotein E Gene

Inbred mouse strains C57BL/6J (B6) and C3H/HeJ (C3H) differ significantly in atherosclerosis susceptibility and plasma lipid levels on the apolipoprotein E-deficient (apoE−/−) background when fed a Western diet. To determine genetic factors contributing to the variations in these phenotypes, we performed quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis using an intercross between the two strains carrying the apoE−/− gene. Atherosclerotic lesions at the aortic root and plasma lipid levels of 234 female F2 mice were analyzed after being fed a Western diet for 12 weeks. QTL analysis revealed one significant QTL, named Ath22 (42 cM, LOD 4.1), on chromosome 9 and a suggestive QTL near D11mit236 (20 cM, LOD 2.4) on chromosome 11 that influenced atherosclerotic lesion size. One significant QTL on distal chromosome 1, which accounted for major variations in plasma LDL/VLDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, coincided with a QTL having strong effects on body weight. Plasma LDL/VLDL cholesterol or triglyceride levels of F2 mice were significantly correlated with body weight, but they were not correlated with atherosclerotic lesion sizes. These data indicate that atherosclerosis susceptibility and plasma cholesterol levels are controlled by separate genetic factors in the B6 and C3H mouse model and that genetic linkages exist between body weight and lipoprotein metabolism.
Trigonelline Is a Novel Phytoestrogen in Coffee Beans

Drinking coffee has been associated with the development of several endocrine-related cancers. The interpretation of these data has often been limited to the role that caffeine plays. Trigonelline (Trig), a niacin-related compound, is a natural constituent of coffee accounting for approximately 1% dry matter in roasted beans. Studies exploring the effects of this bioactive compound on mammalian cells are limited. The initial purpose of our studies was to determine whether Trig alters the actions of estradiol (E(2)), using proliferation of estrogen-dependent human breast cancer (MCF-7) cells as a model system. When cells were cotreated with suboptimal doses of E(2) (10 pmol/L) and Trig (100 pmol/L), an additive enhancement of MCF-7 growth was observed. In the absence of E(2), Trig stimulated MCF-7 cell proliferation in a dose-responsive manner and significantly enhanced cell growth at concentrations as low as 100 pmol/L. Cotreatment of MCF-7 cells with Trig and ICI 182,780, an estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist, inhibited Trig-induced cell proliferation. Trig treatment also induced activation of estrogen response element reporter assays in MCF-7 cells and increased expression of ER target genes (pS2, progesterone receptor, and cyclin D1) similar to E(2). While our data demonstrate that Trig activates the ER, competitive binding assays showed that Trig does not compete E(2) off of the ER at any concentration. This suggests that Trig is activating the ER through a separate mechanism. Collectively, these data demonstrate that Trig even at low concentrations stimulates MCF-7 cell growth and that this effect is mediated through ER, clearly identifying Trig as a novel phytoestrogen.
Exploration of Possible Binding Sites of Nanoparticles on Protein by Cross-Linking Chemistry Coupled with Mass Spectrometry

For the first time, the possible binding site of nanoparticles on protein was revealed by cross-linking chemistry coupled with mass spectrometry. The peptides located very close to the poly(acrylic acid) (PAA)-coated Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) during interaction with human serum albumin (HSA) were cross-linked to the surface of NPs. Following protease digestion, the attached peptides were cleaved off the particle surface and identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time-of-flight-mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). The peptides were found to be part of the so-called drug binding site 2 of HSA; and the competitive binding to HSA between the corresponding drug, ibuprofen, and the NPs was observed. Our results demonstrated that cross-linking chemistry coupled with MS was a quick and simple method for locating the possible binding sites of NPs on protein. Information on NP-protein binding interface will benefit the study of how the interactions are governed by the physicochemical properties of N...