cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The challenge of cardiomyopathy

The combined clinical and pathophysiologic characteristics and diagnostic features as well as current concepts of pathogenesis, therapy and prevention of the principal forms of cardiomyopathy are reviewed. These include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, restrictive cardiomyopathy and specific cardiac muscle disease. Emphasis is placed on recent developments and unresolved questions requiring application of newer techniques of molecular biology and genetics and adult myocyte culturing.
Scanning electron microscopy of McCoy cells infected with Chlamydia trachomatis.

Abstract The growth cycle of Chlamydia trachomatis in McCoy cells was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. Minimal alteration of the host cell membrane is observed as the organism penetrates the cell. After 24 hr the Chlamydia vacuole produces a rounding of the cell with progressive loss of the surface microvilli and blebs. Elongation of the cell with eventual extrusion of the Chlamidia vacuole ensues. The released Chlamydia elementary bodies are round, fairly uniform in size, and remain mostly interconnected.
Formation and metamorphism of group A5 chondrules in ordinary chondrites.

Abstract Group A5 chondrules have FeO-rich olivines (>4 wt% FeO) and albite-normative mesostases and thus are discrete from the major primary chondrule groups. Group A5 chondrules in six LL chondrites have been studied by cathodoluminescence, optical microscopy, electron-micropobe, and, in the case of four chondrules removed from Semarkona (type 3.0) and Krymka (type 3.1 ), by instrumental neutron activation analysis. Olivine and pyroxene compositions vary with petrographic type in a manner resembling group BI chondrules (they gain FeO and MnO, lose CaO, MgO, Al2O3, and Cr2O3 and become more homogeneous), but the pyroxene trends are less marked because of lower diffusion rates. There are no metamorphically-related compositional trends in the mesostasis, although compositional zoning is common in the mesostases of two type 3.4–3.7 chondrites. Group A5 chondrules contain unfractionated lithophile element bulk compositions but, as is typical of all chondrules, siderophile, and chalcophile elements are depleted by about an order of magnitude. Group A5 chondrules are abundant in equilibrated (100% by number) but rare in unequilibrated ordinary chondrites (UOCs, 5% by number), but their presence in UOCs is not due to the emplacement of metamorphosed chondrules during brecciation because (1) olivine in group A5 chondrules is heterogeneous, (2) the olivine displays all the compositional properties of olivine in low petrographic type ordinary chondrites, and (3) the mesostasis is not recrystallized. The chondrules display trends that are consistent with chondrule-to-chondrule and chondrule-to-matrix mineral homogenization and equilibration during metamorphism. Like the major chondrule groups A1, A2, and B1 in Semarkona, group A5 is a primary group whose presence provides further insights into chondrule formation process and diversity. Their bulk composition and redox state suggest that the conditions and temperatures of formation for groups A5 and B1 were similar, however, their different mesostasis compositions indicate that their post-solidification histories were different. Either group B1 chondruues experienced slower cooling at low temperatures than group A5, during which albite crystallized in the mesostasis, group B1 suffered a subsequent mild reheating that caused albite crystallization in the mesostasis, or nucleation details for crystallization of albite in the residual melt were different. Group A1 and A2 chondrules could have been derived from group A5- or B1-like material by reduction and evaporative loss during chondrule formation.
Advances in the management of short bowel syndrome

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is the predominant cause of intestinal failure and is thus associated with a high degree of morbidity and mortality. One of the reasons this occurs is the dramatic reduction in nutrient absorptive capacity. Of the many causes of SBS, the most common cause is extensive surgical resection. The impressive ability of the bowel to adapt functionally and morphologically is critical for decreasing morbidity and mortality in these patients. The degree of adaptation is vital in decreasing the dependence on parenteral nutrition (PN) and for improving patient quality of life and long-term outcome. Provision of appropriate and sufficient nutritional and fluid support is essential for the management of these patients. The primary goal is to prevent or eliminate the need for PN. Recent developments have promoted a greater understanding of the process of intestinal adaptation. Various intestinal trophic factors have been recognized. These efforts have led to the early development of hormonal therapy to stimulate intestinal adaptation and enhance intestinal absorption. Intestinal transplantation remains an option for those who have developed life-threatening complications from PN and cannot be managed using more conservative techniques.
Limitations of a blanket calibration chart for reading dispersions on the Abbe refractometer

The usefulness of the Abbe refractometer equipped with compensating prisms can be limited seriously, for measurement of dispersions, by too liberal application of a blanket calibration chart to many individual instruments. Such a chart has been checked by calculation directly from the Abbe question for the dispersion. Incidentally, this basic formula is given in detail, in the algebraically exact and the approximate form, and also its derivation, which is not widely available. In addition, the expression was derived entirely in terms of the D-index of the test substance as the single independeng variable, which it is ultimately, a form not appearing in Abbe’s treatise.
Morphine induced increases in the incorporation of 3H-thymidine into brain striatal DNA

3H-thymidine uptake into DNA fractions of rat brain regions was measured following in vivo administration of (methyl-3H)-thymidine and morphine. Acute morphine administration (10 mg/kg; 30 min prior to 3H-thymidine) increased incorporation of 3H-thymidine into DNA of rat striatum. This effect was antagonized by naloxone (1 mg/kg). Further, the observed change in incorporation of 3H-thymidine into DNA in striatum could not be accounted for by differences in the local availability of the label in morphinized rats. An autoradiographic study revealed that the 3H-thymidine was localized in nuclei in cells of the sub-ependymal layer lining the lateral ventricles, an area of glial cell proliferation in adult rats. No change in 3H-thymidine incorporation into DNA was observed in any area of the brain in morphine-addicted rats or in rats undergoing naloxone-precipitated withdrawal. The results indicate that opiates may induce permanent anatomical changes in the brain, including alterations of neuroglial interactions.
Reductions catalyzed by a quinone and peroxidases from Phanerochaete chrysosporium.

Abstract A quinone produced from veratryl alcohol by lignin peroxidase from the white rot fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium was tested for its ability to mediate reduction. The quinone (2-hydroxymethyl-5-methoxy-1,4-benzoquinone), reduced chemically or by cellobiose:quinone reductase isolated from cultures of the fungus, mediated the reduction of cytochrome c in reactions containing either Mn(III), a manganese-dependent peroxidase, Mn(II) and H 2 O 2 , or lignin peroxidase and H 2 O 2 . Formation of the semiquinone, the species responsible for reducing cytochrome c, was observed by electron spin resonance spectroscopy in these reactions. The production of the quinone was observed in the extracellular fraction of cultures grown under nutrient nitrogen-deficient conditions (2.4 m m ammonium tartrate) for over 10 days, starting on Day 2, but not under nutrient nitrogen-sufficient conditions. These results suggest that a quinone produced by lignin peroxidase can serve as a physiological mediator of reductive reactions catalyzed by the fungal peroxidases.
Gastrointestinal hemorrhage in patients with systemic sclerosis and CREST syndrome

Abstract Objectives: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) and calcinosis, Raynaud’s phenomenon, esophageal disease, sclerodactyly, telangiectasia (CREST) syndrome present distinctive microvasculature lesions that are thought to be responsible for tissue damage and disease progression. Involvement of the gastrointestinal tract may lead to the occurrence of profuse hemorrhage. We performed a study to assess the incidence and characteristics of gastrointestinal hemorrhage in a large group of patients with SSc and CREST syndrome. Methods: We reviewed the medical records of 144 patients with SSc/CREST seen at our institution during the period 1985–1996. Endoscopic findings and clinical data were correlated. Data are expressed as means ± SD. Results: Twenty-two of 144 (15.2%) patients had at least one episode of gastrointestinal hemorrhage (16 women, 6 men; mean age, 59.4 ± 17.6 yr). Eight patients (8/22; 36%) had multiple episodes and four (4/22; 18%) required chronic transfusion therapy. Mucosal telangiectasias were the most common cause of bleeding (9/22; 40.9%), followed by peptic ulcer disease (7/22; 31.8%) and erosive gastritis (3/22; 13.6%). Bleeding telangiectasias occurred in the entire gastrointestinal tract, including oral cavity (n = 1), esophagus (n = 1), stomach (n = 3), duodenum (n = 1), ileum (n = 1), cecum (n = 2), and colon (n = 2). Mortality was 22.7% in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding, compared with 7.3% in patients without bleeding. Conclusions: Patients with SSc/CREST syndrome are at risk of developing severe gastrointestinal hemorrhage. This complication is associated with frequent hospitalization, blood transfusions, and increased mortality. Mucosal telangiectasias are the most common source of bleeding. Appropriate endoscopic intervention is recommended in evaluating and preventing bleeding in patients with SSc/CREST.
The effect of target power on the nitrogen partial pressure level and hardness of reactively sputtered titanium nitride coatings

Target power and deposition rate have a significant effect on the properties of titanium nitride (TiN) coatings prepared by high rate reactive sputtering. As the target power is increased from 2.3 to 10.0 kW and the deposition rate from 1000 to 4800 A min-1, the Vickers microhardness (50 gf) increases from 970 to 3160 kgf mm-2 and the crystallographic orientation goes from a very strong (111) texture to a more random orientation for the TiN coatings. The partial pressures of the argon and nitrogen gases measured through the target show an apparent drop as power is applied to the titanium target. This apparent drop in pressure is actually a density reduction of the gases in front of the target due to gas rarefaction and heating. In order to maintain stoichiometry in the coatings, the partial pressure of the nitrogen reactive gas must be increased as the target power is increased to offset the N2 density reduction and to compensate for the increase in density of the titanium atoms.
The overall elastoplastic stress-strain relations of dual-phase metals

Abstract T wo simple , albeit approximate, theories are developed to estimate the stress-strain relations of dual-phase metals of the inclusion-matrix type, where both phases are capable of undergoing plastic flow. The first one is based upon Hill's recognition of a weakening constraint power in a plastically deforming matrix, whereas the second one is based on Kroner's elastic constraint in the treatment of the single inclusion-matrix interaction. The inclusion-inclusion interaction at finite concentration is accounted for by the Mori-Tanaka method in both cases. Consistent with the known elastic behavior, the first theory discloses that the geometrical arrangement of the constituents has a significant influence on the overall elastoplastic response. When the harder phase takes the position of the matrix the composite is far Stiffer than that when it takes the position of inclusions. The strong elastic constraint associated with the second theory tends to provide an upper-bound type of estimate regardless of whether the matrix is the harder phase or the softer, and, therefore, it is suggested that this theory be used only for the class of composites whose matrix is the harder phase. Both theories are finally applied to predict the stress-strain relations of dual-phase stainless steels, and the results are found to be in satisfactory agreement with the test data.
Airborne pulsed Doppler radar detection of low-altitude windshear—A signal processing problem

Abstract The airborne pulse Doppler radar will undoubtly be a part of the solution to the problem of detecting LAWS. There are limitations of a single frequency radar, particularly in detecting turbulence over a wide range of reflectivity varying turbulence over a wide thunderstorms. It would seem that the ultimate system will involve a sensor suite including Lidar and FLIR detectors, which tend to complement the radar. A key will be in designing the signal processing to provide a reliable integrated remote sensor. It seems apparent that use of expert system technology will be needed as is being used with the new generation ground systems. Certainly one of the more significant unsolved problems is how to certify such a system. It is difficult to define precisely what constitutes hazardous windshear. It is even more difficult to evaluate detection and false alarm rates. Microbrust events are rare enough to suggest that simulation will play a significant role in this evaluation. A further problem, which is perhaps of related interest to the signal processor, is flight guidance for recovery from microburst windshear. Ongoing research [46] has as an objective, performance evaluation of various strategies for recovery from windshear encountered during the approach-to-landing, including the benefit of forward looking sensors.
Large area Si thin film solar module applying n-μc-SiOx:H intermediate layer with low refractive index

Abstract We present our development of an n-μc-SiOx:H intermediate layer with low refractive index for a highly efficient Si thin film solar module in a large area (1.1×1.3 m2). We try to increase the electron temperature (Te) in the plasma to activate the oxygen reaction during the deposition of the n-μc-SiOx:H intermediate layer. Thus, the Te-related process conditions are controlled, such as the gap between the electrodes, the working pressure and the H2 flow rate in the plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) system. An intermediate layer with a lower refractive index is fabricated in narrower gap between the electrodes, lower working pressure and lower H2 flow rate. As a result, we obtain a superior intermediate layer with a refractive index of 1.73 on a large area substrate, vertically conductive enough for a favorable junction in the cell, as confirmed by conductive atomic force microscopy (C-AFM) analysis. This intermediate layer is applied between the middle and the bottom layers in the triple junction (a-Si:H/a-SiGe:H/μc-Si:H) cell. A low refractive index leads to a higher current of the middle cell by the superior reflection. Our large area module gains 0.3% conversion efficiency, with an improvement in the open circuit voltage (Voc) and the fill factor (FF) by the thinner middle absorbing layer owing to the intermediate layer with a lower refractive index.
Microbial and Acidity Changes in Colostrum Fermented by Natural Flora at Low and High Ambient Temperatures

Abstract The effects of two ranges of ambient temperature on natural fermentation of colostrum were studied over a 32-day storage. Colostrum from the first six milkings of eight Holstein cows, four in winter and four in late spring, was stored separately in 75.7 liter plastic containers with lids. Total plate counts were maximal on the first plating, about 10 9 /ml, and declined little during winter storage (8 to 15 C) but showed a 1.5 log cycle decline between day 2 and 16 of spring storage (20 to 27 C). Total lactic acid bacteria declined little over 32 days of winter storage but showed a 1.5 log cycle decline between day 4 and 16 of spring storage. After 32 days lactobacilli counts were 9×10 7 and 4×10 7 /ml and comprised 30% and 7% of the total lactic acid bacteria during spring and winter storage. By day 16, coliforms were about two log cycles less in spring storage samples than in winter storage. However, counts of coliforms never declined below 10 4 /ml by day 32 of storage. Total yeasts and molds, although initially lower during winter fermentation, appeared to stabilize at 10 6 colonies/ml at both temperature ranges. From day 0 to day 32 titratable acidity values increased from 1.1 to 3.8% in spring storage samples and increased from .9 to 1.9% in winter storage samples. Higher fermentation temperature may favor development of a more desirable microflora in the colostrum.
Box C/D RNA-Guided 2′-O Methylations and the Intron of tRNATrp Are Not Essential for the Viability of Haloferax volcanii

Deleting the box C/D RNA-containing intron in the Haloferax volcanii tRNATrp gene abolishes RNA-guided 2′-O methylations of C34 and U39 residues of tRNATrp. However, this deletion does not affect growth under standard conditions.
Acute cocaine toxicity: the effect of agents in non-seizure-induced death.

Abstract Death from cocaine intoxication results from one or more of the multiple mechanisms including seizures, cardiovascular collapse, or apnea. In the free-moving rat model, continuous seizures are a major cause of death. To study other mechanisms of death unrelated to seizures in this model, we suppressed lethal seizures with diazepam (DZP) and investigated the effect of several pharmacological agents. Rats were pretreated with vehicle alone, diazepam 5 mg/kg alone, or a combination of DZP plus either nifedipine (NIFD) 2 mg/kg, propranolol (PROP) 10 mg/kg, or prazosin (PRAZ) 5 mg/kg. Five minutes after pretreatment, all animals received cocaine 100 mg/kg. Each test group consisted of 15 animals and all agents were given IP. Two animals in each group had cortical electrodes implanted. Animals that received vehicle followed by cocaine had 100% incidence of seizures and death. Those rats that received DZP alone followed by cocaine had no seizures and 53% death. Rats that received DZP plus NIFD or DZP plus PROP had suppression of seizures but no significant change in the incidence of death. The group that received DZP and PRAZ followed by cocaine had no seizures and 13% incidence of death ( p
Abstract LB-285: Pharmacogenomic study to improve sorafenib response in hepatocellular carcinoma

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the primary malignancy of the liver, is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, with a 5-year survival rate of∼10%. Recently, a new multikinase inhibitor, sorafenib (Nexavar®), which mainly targets the VEGFR and the Raf/Mek/Erk pathways, has shown limited response rate and modest survival benefits in patients with advanced stage HCC. We hypothesize that there exist genetic alterations or contexts of vulnerability (COV) in cancer cells that dictate sensitivity to sorafenib. In order to identify specific COVs and obtain an increased understanding of drug's mechanism of action, we performed a custom chemosensitization high-throughput siRNA screen. We developed and optimized a sorafenib chemosensitization assay in 3 HCC cell lines, one of which, Hep3B, a AFP and HBsAg positive cell line, was selected for primary RNAi screening with a kinase siRNA library, which covers 700 genes (4 siRNA sequences per gene). Primary screen data was rigorously evaluated for multiple quality control metrics (transfection efficiency, CV values, accessing plate-to-plate and set-to-set variation) and found to exceed all expected performance parameters. The top sorefenib sensitizing hits were identified and supplemented with additional genes selected based on related biological concepts. This sensitization effect of the genes was further tested and compared in two additional HCC cell lines (HepG2 and PLC). Additionally, based on the sensitizer list from the RNAi screening, 11 chemical compounds were tested for synergistic combination with sorafenib. Notable synergism with sorafenib was observed in the combination with erlotinib or doxorubicin. More strikingly, we also observed synergy between sorafenib and multiple MEK inhibitors as well as gemcitabine in the selected HCC cell lines. Our data suggest that MEK inhibitors might improve the efficacy of sorafenib in HCC treatment in the clinic. Further mechanistic studies are being conducted for this particular combination. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-285.
Influence of Spinel head window thickness on the performance characteristics of a submarine panoramic infrared imaging system

This work explores the influence of head window thickness on the performance of a mid-wave infrared, panoramic periscope imager. Our focus is on transparent spinel ceramic as the head window material. Spinel is an attractive material for IR applications due to its good strength and transmission properties (visible through mid-wave). However, there is some degradation in spinel transmission near the high end of the mid-wave band ( 5μm) as the head window thickness increases. In this work we predict the relationship between head window thickness and imager performance, as quantified by the Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference, and compare these predictions to values estimated from experimental data. We then discuss the implications for imager design and demonstrate a possible approach to correcting for the headwindow-induced losses. The imager used in this study is a compact, catadioptric, camera that provides a 360 o horizontal azimuth by -10 o to +30 o elevation field of view and uses a 2048 x 2048, 15μm pitch InSb detector.
The p67 laminin receptor identifies human erythroid progenitor and precursor cells and is functionally important for their bone marrow lodgment.

The laminins are a group of extracellular matrix proteins with constitutive expression in all tissues, including bone marrow stroma. A functional role for the nonintegrin laminin receptor p67 has been described for cancer metastasis and lymphocyte trafficking. Expression of p67 was also reported for other subsets of mature leukocytes and for malignant hematopoietic or nonhematopoietic cells. We explored p67 expression on normal hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) and its putative role in bone marrow retention of transplanted HPCs. We found p67 expression on a subset of primary human CD34+ cells coexpressing erythroid markers. Of importance, p67 recognizes early erythroid progenitors, since sorted p67+ cells were significantly enriched for burst-forming units–erythroid (BFU-Es) and depleted of colony-forming units–granulocyte/macrophage (CFU-GMs). Blockade of p67 binding of donor cells, using antifunctional antibody, reduced bone marrow homing of BFU-Es. These studies identify p67 as a novel phenotypic marker for erythroid HPCs of functional importance for lineage-specific homing/retention among adult transplanted HPCs.
ON THE STATISTICAL ANALYSIS OF INOCULATED PACKS

This presents new theoretical and practical results derived from the author's (1974) paper on calculating 12D from inoculated packs. The theoretical portion compares methods for estimating the number of surviving organisms and shows that the Halvorson-Ziegler formula is approximately derivable from the theory given previously. The more practical part shows several examples of what may hapen if the organism death kinetics are shifted-rather than simple exponential. A new test procedure is outlined that should lead to more reliable estimates of 12D than are now obtained.
Development of an intact blood-brain barrier in brain tissue transplants is dependent on the site of transplantation

Transplantation of fetal septal forebrain tissue was performed to the anterior chamber of the eye, or intracranially to the rostral hippocampal formation in rats, to evaluate the impact of transplantation site on the development of an intact blood-brain barrier (BBB). The tissue was studied at 1,2,3, and 4 wk following transplantation by means of intravenous injection of Trypan blue, which is a vital stain not normally penetrating the BBB, as well as with an antibody specifically directed against the rat BBB, SM171. In the intraocular septal transplants, there was a significant leakage of Trypan blue 1 wk postgrafting, associated with a few laminin-immunoreactive blood vessels that did not contain any SM17I-immunoreactivity. However, at 2 wk postgrafting, the intraocular grafts exhibited an extensive plexus of thin-walled blood vessels expressing SMI71 immunoreactivity and no Trypan blue leakage. Thus, it appeared that a BBB had developed to some degree by 2 wk postgrafting in oculo. In the intracranial grafts, on the other hand, Trypan blue leakage could be seen as long as 3 wk postgrafting, and a dense plexus of blood vessels with SMI71 immunoreactivity was first seen at 4 wk postgrafting. Thus, the development of Trypan blue impermeability was delayed with 1 to 2 wk in the intracranial versus the intraocular grafts. Control experiments using psychological stress in adult rats as a means to transiently disrupt the BBB revealed that an increase in Trypan blue leakage correlated well with the disappearance of SMI71 immunoreactivity. Taken together, these studies demonstrate that the site of transplantation can influence the development of an intact BBB in neural tissue grafts.
The Contribution of Psychological and Sensory Factors to Food Preference Patterns as Measured by the Food Attitudes Survey (FAS)

The relationship between food preference patterns and several psychological and sensory variables was assessed using the Food Attitudes Survey (FAS). Previous research with the FAS, which consists of preference ratings for a variety of common, unusual and fictitious foods, showed that it provides both reliable and valid information about individual differences in food preferences and attitudes (Frank & van der Klaauw, 1994). In the studies reported here, significant correlations were found between preferences for a variety of activities (as measured by the Activity Attitudes Survey or ACT) and liking for and willingness to try foods. It was also found that individuals who report that they are unwilling to try many foods are low in general sensation seeking, and that odor pleasantness ratings significantly correlate with liking for and willingness to try foods. No associations were found between FAS performance and general phobic tendencies, optimism/pessimism or disordered eating. Multiple regression analysis revealed that responses on the ACT, sensation seeking scale, a 20-item food and eating questionnaire and odor pleasantness judgments could account for from 41 to 65% of the variance in food likes, dislikes and willingness to try foods. It was concluded that personality and sensory factors contribute to patterns of responding on the FAS, and that FAS response patterns provide an index of both attitudes toward foods and general openness to experiences and activities.
In vitro culture of the tropical sponge Axinella corrugata (Demospongiae): effect of food cell concentration on growth, clearance rate, and biosynthesis of stevensine.

In vitro culture is one possible method for supplying sponge metabolites for pharmaceutical applications, but appropriate feeding regimens that maximize both growth and metabolite biosynthesis are largely unknown. According to the natural concentration (NC) of cells 1 to 50 µm in size that are available to wild Axinella corrugata, we fed explants a multispecific diet of bacteria, microalgae, and yeast at 4 different concentrations: 1NC, 3NC, 5NC, and 5+1NC (the last consisted of 5 NC of bacteria and 1 NC of microalgae and yeast). Explants fed a 3NC diet had the best culture response, growing on average from 8.5 g to 10.3 g in 8 weeks, and showing a 110% increase in concentration (milligrams per gram of dry weight) of the antitumor compound stevensine. Stevensine production in 3NC explants, representing the total milligrams of metabolite per explant, increased by 157% over the study. Explants fed at 1NC had relatively stable weights, indicating that the diet met metabolic costs only. Explants fed at the two highest concentrations lost weight after 4 weeks, possibly because long-term high cell concentration blocked their aquiferous system, reducing their ability to feed efficiently. Stevensine production in explants fed the 1NC, 5NC, or 5+1NC diets were similar, and varied little from the initial amount. A separate experiment showed that the clearance rate for A. corrugata is similar between the examined food types and cell concentrations over 5 hours, averaging 766 ml h−1 g DW−1.Overall, this study demonstrates that relatively small changes in food abundance can greatly affect both sponge growth and metabolite biosynthesis. The good growth and increased production of the target metabolite stevensine for A. corrugata explants fed a 3NC diet suggests that in vitro culture is a viable method of supplying some sponge metabolites.
FunnyBase: a systems level functional annotation of Fundulus ESTs for the analysis of gene expression

Background: While studies of non-model organisms are critical for many research areas, such as evolution, development, and environmental biology, they present particular challenges for both experimental and computational genomic level research. Resources such as mass-produced microarrays and the computational tools linking these data to functional annotation at the system and pathway level are rarely available for non-model species. This type of "systems-level" analysis is critical to the understanding of patterns of gene expression that underlie biological processes. Results: We describe a bioinformatics pipeline known as FunnyBase that has been used to store, annotate, and analyze 40,363 expressed sequence tags (ESTs) from the heart and liver of the fish, Fundulus heteroclitus. Primary annotations based on sequence similarity are linked to networks of systematic annotation in Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and can be queried and computationally utilized in downstream analyses. Steps are taken to ensure that the annotation is self-consistent and that the structure of GO is used to identify higher level functions that may not be annotated directly. An integrated framework for cDNA library production, sequencing, quality control, expression data generation, and systems-level analysis is presented and utilized. In a case study, a set of genes, that had statistically significant regression between gene expression levels and environmental temperature along the Atlantic Coast, shows a statistically significant (P < 0.001) enrichment in genes associated with amine
Model-order reduction of finite-element approximations of passive electromagnetic devices including lumped electrical-circuit models

A methodology is presented for the development of reduced-order macromodels for multiport passive electromagnetic devices that include embedded lumped elements. The proposed methodology utilizes a discrete state-space model for the electromagnetic device, generated through the application of the finite-element method for the spatial discretization of Maxwell's curl equations. The incorporation of lumped resistors, inductors, and capacitors is effected through the direct stamping of the state-space voltage-current relationship for these elements in the matrices of the generated state-space form of the discrete model. The conditions necessary for the discrete model to be passive are discussed. The subsequent reduction of the discrete state-space model is effected through the application of a Krylov-subspace-based model-order reduction scheme that guarantees the passivity of the generated multiport macromodel, provided that the original state-space model is passive. The proposed methodology is demonstrated and validated through its application for the generation of reduced-order macromodels for a coaxial cable circuit and a microstrip directional coupler circuit.
Isolation and Characterization of Mutants Partially Deficient in Aldehyde Dehydrogenase in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Mutants of the yeast Sacchavomyces cerevisiae that are partially deficient in aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDHs) were isolated. A mutant, AK-9, was shown to be especially defective in the NADP+-linked ALDH. The K+-activated ALDH of a mutant AK-25 was found in the cytosol, but not in the mitochondria. The strain AK-25 continuously accumulated acetate even in the phase of ethanol consumption in batch aerobic cultures. A mutant, AK-26, was defective in two isozymes of ALDH, particularly in the K+-activated ALDH. The aldh mutants of AK-9 and AK-25 were more sensitive to the growth inhibitory effects of ethanol and NaCl, but the mutant AK-26 was only sensitive to ethanol. All aldh mutants stimulated more acetaldehyde production than the wild-type strain during conditioning in media containing ethanol. The mutants except for AK-26 almost never produced acetaldehyde during conditioning in media containing 2–6% NaCl. The mutant AK-26 produced glycerol almost the same as the wild-type strain during conditioning in Na...
“I’m Not Learning”: The Role of Academic Relevancy for Low-Achieving Students

When students enter high school with low achievement, they are likely to exit high school with low achievement. Given this stability in achievement, it is important to identify factors that can shift academic trajectories. Promising factors include the degree to which school is experienced as relevant and intrinsically motivating to students. Little is known about how these factors together are predictive of classroom engagement and achievement for low achievers in high school. Sampling a group of 44 low-achieving high school students, comprising Black students, the authors explored the effects of academic relevancy on engagement and achievement. Regression analyses show that students who found coursework personally relevant had increased engagement in Grade 10. Importantly, this relationship was mediated through intrinsic motivation.
Determinants of outcome after endovascular therapy for critical limb ischemia with tissue loss.

Background In this study we examine outcomes of endovascular therapy for critical limb ischemia with tissue loss and identify risk factors for failure of endovascular therapy across a panel of outcome metrics. Methods A retrospective review (2006–2010) of patients undergoing endovascular therapy for critical limb ischemia with tissue loss provided data for multivariate models of overall survival, amputation-free survival, limb salvage (LS), and wound healing. Results One hundred six patients underwent endovascular therapy for Rutherford class 5 (88%) or class 6 (12%) ischemia with ulceration and/or gangrene of the heel (15%), forefoot (16%), toe(s) (43%), calf/ankle (11%), or multiple locations (15%). Sustained limb salvage at 1 year was 87%. One-year overall survival and amputation-free survival were 65% and 49%, respectively. Multivariate regression models identified independent risk factors for reduced primary patency: Rutherford 6 ischemia ( P = 0.008; HR 4.7 [95% confidence interval 1.5–14.8]) and infrapopliteal intervention ( P = 0.03; HR 2.58 [95% CI 1.08–6.14]). Rutherford class 6 ischemia was independently associated with reduced assisted patency ( P = 0.004; HR 5.39 [95% CI 1.74–16.73]). Wound healing was adversely affected by diabetes ( P = 0.02; HR 7.0 [95% CI 1.4–36.2]), continued smoking ( P = 0.04; HR 5.3 [95% CI 1.1–26.3]), and patency loss ( P = 0.04; HR 4.8 [95% CI 1.1–22.30]). Rutherford class 6 ischemia was independently associated with reduced limb salvage ( P P = 0.007; HR 3.61 [95% CI 1.4–9.18]), in addition to COPD ( P = 0.01; 3.58 [95% 1.28–9.55]). Independent predictors of poor overall survival included end-stage renal disease ( P = 0.03; HR 2.99 [95% CI 1.1–8.05]), history of angina ( P = 0.02; HR 5.08 [95% CI 1.28–20.29]), and COPD ( P = 0.001; HR 3.77 [95% CI 1.76–8.34]). Conclusions Both increasing severity of tissue loss as well as the presence of severe medical comorbidities are associated with poorer outcomes of endovascular therapy in these patients. Although sustained limb salvage in patients with tissue loss may be achieved with endovascular therapy, this is due to poor overall survival and a competing mortality hazard.
Resonant cascaded surface-emitting second-harmonic generation: a strong third-order nonlinear process.

A novel practical scheme for implementation of the cascaded nonlinearity with surface-emitting second-harmonic generation in the Fabry–Perot cavity is presented. We show that such a scheme can be efficiently used for optical limiting and optical phase conjugation at a pump power of less than 100 mW.
Viable Staphylococcus aureus quantitation using 15N metabolically-labeled bacteriophage amplification coupled with a multiple reaction monitoring proteomic workflow

A multiple reaction monitoring liquid chromatography method with tandem mass spectrometric detection for quantitation of Staphylococcus aureus via phage amplification detection is described. This phage amplification detection method enables rapid and accurate quantitation of viable S. aureus by detecting an amplified capsid protein from a specific phage. A known amount of metabolically labeled 15N reference bacteriophage, utilized as the input phage and as the internal standard for quantitation, was spiked into S. aureus samples. Following a 2-h incubation, the sample was subjected to a 3-min rapid trypsin digest and analyzed by high-throughput liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometric detection targeting peptides unique to both the 15N (input phage) and 14N (progeny phage) capsid proteins. Quantitation was achieved by comparing peak areas of target peptides from the metabolically labeled 15N bacteriophage peptide internal standard with that of the wild-type 14N peptides that were produced by phage amplification and subsequent digestion when the host bacteria was present. This approach is based on the fact that a labeled species differs from the unlabeled one in terms of its mass but exhibits almost identical chemical properties such as ion yields and retention times. A 6-point calibration curve for S. aureus concentration was constructed with standards ranging from 5.0 × 104 colony forming units (CFU) ml−1 to 2.0 × 106 CFU ml−1, with the 15N reference phage spiked at a concentration of 1.0 × 109 plaque forming units (PFU) ml−1. Amplification with 15N bacteriophage coupled with LC-MS/MS detection offers speed (3 h total analysis time), sensitivity (LOD: < 5.0 × 104 CFU ml−1), accuracy, and precision for quantitation of S. aureus.
Characterization of a Radiantly Driven Multistage Knudsen Compressor

Knudsen Compressors are meso/micro scale gas compressors/pumps based on thermal transpiration or thermal creep. The design of radiantly driven Knudsen Compressors is discussed, along with a model that was developed to understand their performance. Experimental pumping performances for Knudsen Compressors with one, two, five, and fifteen stage, radiantly driven cascades are also discussed. Temperature measurements across the transpiration membranes, for various pressures of Nitrogen, were obtained and compared to those predicted by the performance model. The results agree with the model to within 15% consistently under predicting the measured hot side temperature of the transpiration membrane. The pump-down curves, steady-state maximum pressure differences, and maximum flow rates produced by a single stage Knudsen Compressor were obtained. A variety of configurations were studied at pressures from 500 mTorr to atmospheric pressure. The experimental results agreed with the performance model’s predictions to within 20%.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Gust energy extraction for mini and micro uninhabited aerial vehicles

This paper discusses energy extraction from atmospheric turbulence by small- and micro- uninhabited aerial vehicles. A nonlinear longitudinal dynamic model of a glider with elevators as the sole control input is used for the aircraft and feedback control laws for energy extraction are discussed. Using current measurements of wind speed and gradient the state which maximizes the gain in total energy is computed. A state feedback controller uses elevator input to regulate states to the optimal values. The state feedback control law is computed using LQR synthesis, and the state and input weight matrices which maximize energy gain are found using a search method. Simulation results of flights through sinusoidal gust fields and a thermal field show the performance of the proposed approach.
GP or no GP, is that the question?

It has long been recognized, on the basis of numerous experimental and clinical studies, that the autonomic nervous system has a significant role in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). More recent studies have focused on the ganglionated plexi (GP), which are part of an interconnected structural and functional atrial neural network constituting the intrinsic cardiac autonomic nervous system.1–3 The procedure known presently as pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) has undergone substantial changes from ablation of ectopic firing within the pulmonary veins4,5 to segmental ostial ablation6 to circumferential PVI (CPVI).7,8 Similarly, targeting the GP has also shown a progression of changes in this procedure. Initially, the GP were identified by high-frequency electric stimulation, which caused a marked slowing of the ventricular response during AF.9,10 Further studies found that efficacy of GP ablation could be enhanced by a combination of CPVI and GP ablation.11,12 Still others chose to ablate GP using an anatomic approach, which they found to be more effective than using high-frequency electric stimulation to identify and ablate GP and thereby terminate AF. Article …
Design and fabrication of an Intuitive Leg Assist Device to address lower extremity weakness

The Intuitive Leg Assist Device (I-LAD) is designed to address a demographic of people with lower extremity weakness. It optimizes cost, weight, and functionality, and provides the power and support needed to perform natural ambulation. The design mimics the human gait cycle by coupling the actuation of the knee and hip via a dual four-bar linkage system modified from a crank rocker system, with a 12.8% and 14.1% error in the hip and knee movement, respectively. The patient supports the device using an over the shoulder harness and modified work belt, both connected to an acrylic plate. The plate serves as the mounting for the motor, planetary gear system, and electrical components that drive the linkage system. The linkage system is connected to a knee brace and ankle foot orthosis that minimizes the effect of foot drop. The design implements feedback and safety by incorporating four sensor inputs—two force sensors beneath the feet and two goniometers on the hips—and a microprocessor, which controls motor actuation. The program logic ensures that the device shuts down upon unintended user movement, minimizing safety hazards.
Predicting Peak Sector Occupancy with Two-Hour Convective Weather Forecasts

An important function of traffic flow management is ensuring the number of aircraft entering a sector does not exceed the amount that can be safely controlled by the sector controller. One factor that makes this task difficult is the uncertainty of the impact of convective weather, as both the weather forecast and the impact given specific weather is uncertain. In this investigation, we study this effect indirectly by exploring the relationship between convective weather forecasts and observed peak sector occupancy. Specifically, we measure how well the peak sector occupacy can be predicted using area-based and directional-based weather models. We also present a methodology for comparing weather models using a machine learning approach. When the forecast is for light weather, the impact of weather is presumably minimal and little difference is observed between models in our evaluation. In contrast, when heavy weather is forecast, the weather models outperform those without a weather component and also have statistically significant differences among each other.
A confirmatory factor analysis of the metabolic syndrome in adolescents: an examination of sex and racial/ethnic differences

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of clinical indices that signals increased risk for cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes. The diagnosis of MetS is typically based on cut-off points for various components, e.g. waist circumference and blood pressure. Because current MetS criteria result in racial/ethnic discrepancies, our goal was to use confirmatory factor analysis to delineate differential contributions to MetS by sub-group. Using 1999–2010 data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), we performed a confirmatory factor analysis of a single MetS factor that allowed differential loadings across sex and race/ethnicity, resulting in a continuous MetS risk score that is sex and race/ethnicity-specific. Loadings to the MetS score differed by racial/ethnic and gender subgroup with respect to triglycerides and HDL-cholesterol. ROC-curve analysis revealed high area-under-the-curve concordance with MetS by traditional criteria (0.96), and with elevations in MetS-associated risk markers, including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (0.71), uric acid (0.75) and fasting insulin (0.82). Using a cut off for this score derived from ROC-curve analysis, the MetS risk score exhibited increased sensitivity for predicting elevations in ≥2 of these risk markers as compared with traditional pediatric MetS criteria. The equations from this sex- and race/ethnicity-specific analysis provide a clinically-accessible and interpretable continuous measure of MetS that can be used to identify children at higher risk for developing adult diseases related to MetS, who could then be targeted for intervention. These equations also provide a powerful new outcome for use in childhood obesity and MetS research.
Pattern of expiratory muscle activation during lower thoracic spinal cord stimulation.

Large positive airway pressures (Paws) can be generated by lower thoracic spinal cord stimulation (SCS), which may be a useful method of restoring cough in spinal cord-injured patients. Optimal ele...