cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A probabilistic and statistical view of fuzzy methods

Fuzzy set theory has primarily been associated with control theory and with the representation of uncertainty in applications in artificial intelligence. More recently, fuzzy methods have been proposed as alternatives to traditional statistical methods in statistical quality control, linear regression, and forecasting, among other areas. We review some basic concepts of fuzzy methods, point out some philosophical and practical problems, and offer simpler alternatives based on traditional probability and statistical theory. Applications in control theory and statistical quality control serve as our primary examples.
Impulse response functions for elastic structures with rigid-body degrees of freedom

Abstract A procedure based on the theory of generalized functions is developed which allows the calculation of impulse response functions for discrete and continuous elastic systems with structural damping and rigid-body degrees of freedom. For any degree of freedom the procedure divides the Fourier transform of the impulse response function into two parts. The first part contains the singularity due to the rigid-body degree of freedom. Its time-domain counterpart is obtained in closed form. The second part exhibits no singularities, and its time-domain counterpart is obtained by numerical integration using a Fast Fourier Transform routine. The procedure is applied to two systems for which closed form solutions are also obtained: a system consisting of two point masses connected by an elastic spring which slide without friction on a horizontal plane, and a non-dispersive mechanical slider with elastic deformations due to shear strain. The agreement between the results yielded by the proposed procedure and the closed form solutions is shown to be excellent. The procedure is then used to calculate the impulse response function for the tip displacement of a dispersive medium consisting of a flexible robot manipulator with the mechanical properties of a Timoshenko beam.
Dopaminergic and peptidergic mRNA levels in juvenile rat brain after prenatal cocaine treatment.

The effects of prenatal cocaine treatment on gene expression in dopaminergic pathways of juvenile rats were investigated by in situ hybridization histochemistry. Pregnant rats from gestational day 8 to 20 were administered one of the following treatments: (A) 40 mg/kg cocaine hydrochloride/3 ml/day s.c.; (B) 0.9% saline/3 ml/day s.c. and pair fed to cocaine-exposed dams; (C) 0.9% saline/3 ml/day s.c. and placement on cellulose-diluted diet to match the caloric intake of the cocaine-treated group without explicit food restriction; (D) no injection and lab chow diet. Levels of mRNA for the dopamine transporter, tyrosine hydroxylase, cholecystokinin, D1 and D2 dopamine receptors and enkephalin were quantitated in relevant dopaminergic regions of forebrain and midbrain of offspring that were sacrificed on postnatal day 21. Quantitative analysis revealed no significant changes in mRNA levels in any of the brain regions examined. In the present animal model, cocaine exposure in utero had no significant effect on mRNA levels of the dopamine transporter, D1 or D2 dopamine receptors, enkephalin, tyrosine hydroxylase, or cholecystokinin in juvenile rats.
Sonic hedgehog patterning in chick neural plate is antagonized by a Wnt3‐like signal

Sonic hedgehog (Shh) patterns the dorsal-ventral axis of the neural tube by promoting the differentiation of ventral neural cell types while suppressing dorsal neural fates. Other signals impinge upon the Shh response, biasing the differentiation of a cell. Three dorsally expressed transforming Wnts, of which the most broadly expressed is Wnt3, may be among the signals that influence the Shh response. We demonstrate that activation of Wnt signaling results in an inhibition of the Shh response in neural tissue. Additionally, we show that the expression pattern of chick Wnt3 is consistent with a role in neural patterning. These results indicate that differentiating neural tube cells, besides integrating signals from Hedgehogs and BMPs, may also incorporate a Wnt response to make cell fate decisions.
Embeddable Sensor Mote for Structural Monitoring

An embeddable sensor mote for structural monitoring is described. The Missouri University of Science and Technology (MST) F1 mote is designed to provide a general platform for sensing, networking, and data processing. The platform consists of an 8051 variant processor, two 802.15.4 variant radio platform options, micro Smart Digital (SD TM ) flash storage, USB connectivity, RS-232 connectivity, and various sensor capabilities. Sensor capabilities include, but are not limited to, strain gauges, a three-axis multi-range accelerometer, thermocouples, and interface options for other digital and analog sensors via a screw terminal block. In its default configuration the strain conditioning channel is appropriate for structural monitoring, but through reconfiguration it can be used with other resistive bridge transducers for pressure, force, displacement, etc. The F1 mote provides capabilities for strain, temperature, and vibration sensing in a small package. The mote is used at MST for networked monitoring of structures and networked robotic vehicles. In this paper an overview of the F1 mote will be given that emphasizes its operating architecture and potential applications. Applications include infrastructure monitoring for structures such as bridges, levees, and buildings as well as robotics, machine monitoring, and sensor networks. The described platform provides novelty in that it has the ability to be a dedicated structural monitoring system, however can be also used in development of other systems. The F1 platform was designed to combine features of available dedicated platforms and available development kits. The F1 provides a novel combination of sensing, processing, and application possibilities for the targeted application areas.
Positive Gallium-67 Scintigraphy Associated with Pulmonary Embolism

A 54-year-old man presenting with symptoms and signs of pulmonary embolism demonstrated gallium-67 accumulation within the right lower lung field in the region of a pulmonary embolism with effusion. An associated infectious process was ruled out. This is contrary to the usual clinical experience and identifies a potential pitfall in the use of gallium-67 as an aid in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary embolism and pneumonitis.
Chemistry in Lasers. IV. The Relationship between Spectral Line Narrowing, Translational Degrees of Freedom, and Diffusion of Laser Active Molecules

Abstract Some of the specific interactions between the radiative ensemble and the optical resonant cavity are examined in relation to the time-oriented sequence of molecular states previously developed. Changes in emission line width by several orders of magnitude due to spectral condensation upon selective optical feedback indicate that the usual translational freedom of laser active molecules is greatly reduced. Following the Einstein diffusion model, the reduced translational freedom corresponds to lesser values of the diffusion coefficient D, leading to anomalous concentration gradients in the cavity.
Effects of Aspirin on Gastric Mucosae of Albino Rat and Mongolian Gerbil (meriones unguiculatus)

Abstract When albino rats were orally administered aspirin in buffer at pH 4.60 at a dose level of 50.0 mg./kg. body weight, all of the animals developed gastric erosions and bleeding within 2 hr. Under the same conditions and at the same dosage, Mongolian gerbils failed to develop these lesions. At higher dose levels of 100 and 200 mg./kg., some gerbils developed mild to moderate gastric lesions with some bleeding. Differences in solubility and in rate of solubility from previously tested chemical lots were observed in a dimenhydrinate chemical evaluated by the tests and specifications in the official monograph. An impurity was isolated from the lot in question and was identified as 8-(2-diphenylmethoxy- N -methylethylamine)-1,3-dimethylxanthine based on spectral and elemental data.
Capless annealing of silicon implanted gallium arsenide

Abstract Numerous commercially available semi-insulating GaAs substrates have been implanted with silicon ions and the post implantation annealing carried out using the technique of capless annealing in an arsine atmosphere. Results are presented on the implanted atomic silicon distribution along with carrier concentration and mobility profiles, Hall mobility and percentage activation figures for various implanted substrates. The phenomenon of thermally induced surface conduction layers in semi-insulating GaAs is discussed in the context of a capless annealing technique.
Reformers to Radicals: The Appalachian Volunteers and the War on Poverty, by Thomas Kiffmeyer

Reformers to Radicals: The Appalachian Volunteers and the War on Poverty, by Thomas Kiffmeyer, Lexington, KY, University of Kentucky Press, 2008, xi + 284 pp., US$40.00 (cloth), ISBN 978-0-8131-250...
Older patients (age 65+) report better quality of life, psychological adjustment, and adherence than younger patients 5 years after heart transplant: A multisite study

Background Research examining age differences after heart transplant (HT) has focused primarily on morbidity and mortality outcomes, with little emphasis on potential age differences in quality of life and psychosocial outcomes. The objective of the study was to determine whether older patients have more positive adjustment and quality of life several years after HT compared with younger patients. Methods The study recruited 555 patients who were at least 5 years post-HT from 4 United States medical centers. The sample included 165 older patients (≥ 60 years at HT), 300 middle-aged patients (between 45 and 59 years), and 90 younger patients ( Results Statistics included multivariate analyses of covariance, followed by univariate analyses of covariance that controlled for differences in sex, race, years of education, and marital status. Older HT patients were more satisfied with quality of life ( p p = 0.003), had less HT-related stress ( p p p p = 0.035), less use of negative coping strategies ( p = 0.006), less difficulty with adherence ( p p Conclusions Older patients in this large sample had better quality of life, psychosocial adjustment, and adherence after HT than middle-aged and younger patients. If replicated, this age advantage should at least be considered when assessing age as a criterion for HT clinical decision making and organ allocation policy.
Variation in the nanoindentation hardness of platinum

Pure platinum was probed with a nanoindenter fitted with a Berkovich tip to various depths. The indent pattern was made on the as-polished specimen prior to heat treating, after heat treating at 500 °C for 30 min, and again after further heat treating at 1000 °C for 30 min. The variability in the measured hardness decreased as the indentation depth increased from 50 to 300 nm. When the sampled was annealed, the hardness variation was also greater. Increasing hardness variation with decreasing dislocation density and sampling volume indicates that dislocation density plays a critical role in the observed variation, beyond solely instrumentation uncertainty, and supports a defect-based explanation for the stochastic behavior. It appears that the stochastic behavior occurs when multiple dislocations are present in the sampled volume rather than sampling only a single dislocation.
Update on total parenteral nutrition

Two articles on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) in this issue of the Journal (1, 2), one an original research communication and the other a review, can be used as a springboard for discussing several important points about TPN in general and about research in this area specifically. First, TPN, a major therapeutic advance in the modern medical era, still provides ample opportunity for continued exploration. Zauner et al (1) used indirect calorimetry to evaluate energy and substrate metabolism in septic and nonseptic patients before and after the administration of a standard TPN formula. Their conclusion was that no major differences in metabolism exist between these patient groups, and thus that disease-specific TPN formulas are not required. Recognizing that the study was well conducted and provided new and interesting information and that the statistical evaluations were appropriate, a closer look at the data provides insight into how such results could subsequently be used in support of clinical practices that may be erroneous. Such is the
Experimental and computer simulation determination of the structural changes occurring through the liquid–glass transition in Cu–Zr alloys

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed of the structural changes occurring through the liquid–glass transition in Cu–Zr alloys. The total scattering functions (TSF), and their associated primary diffuse scattering peak positions (K p), heights (K h) and full-widths at half maximum (K FWHM) were used as metrics to compare the simulations to high-energy X-ray scattering data. The residuals of difference between the model and experimental TSFs are ∼0.03 for the liquids and about 0.07 for the glasses. Over the compositional range studied, Zr1− x Cu x (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 0.9), K p, K h and K FWHM show a strong dependence on composition and temperature. The simulation and experimental data correlate well between each other. MD simulation revealed that the Cu–Zr bonds undergo the largest changes during cooling of the liquid, whereas the Cu–Cu bonds change the least. Changes in the partial-pair correlations are more readily seen in the second and third shells. The Voronoi polyhedra (VP) in glasses are dominate...
Automatic vehicle location (AVL) for transit operation

The purpose of the AVL system is to monitor the location of buses. Knowing the location of a bus enables the operator to manage the bus fleet more efficiently and to provide their customers with up to the minute information on bus arrivals and departures. To monitor the location of the buses, it is necessary to have an adequate positioning device such as GPS and an accurate digital map such as a GIS. To ensure accurate information, the location (coordinates) of the bus must be consistent (or within a small tolerance) with those of the digital map. Employing an AVL system becomes especially important in an urban area where the system would be most valuable. In this paper the different aspects of AVL system implementation for a transit operator are discussed. Minimum requirements for different levels of AVL implementations are summarized, system evaluation procedures are suggested and results of an AVL evaluation are presented. Some of the challenges of such systems are discussed as well.
Assessing the Attitudes Substance Abuse Professionals Have Toward 12-Step Culture: Preliminary Results

Despite the wide incorporation of 12-step programs into substance abuse treatment, many clients fail to engage them. The lack of engagement might arise for multiple reasons, but the attitudes referring substance abuse professionals have toward 12-step culture might be a contributive factor. Although several available instruments measure client participation, none focus on substance abuse professionals' attitudes toward the culture of 12-step programs. This study reports on the initial development of an instrument designed to measure this construct. Factor analysis of relevant items suggests multiple potential components of attitude toward 12-step culture, laying a foundation for subsequent work.
Technique for constructing an incisionless laparoscopic stoma

Minimally invasive surgery continues to evolve, and with the advent of single-port laparoscopic access incisionless stoma, creation is possible. Outlined below is the technical approach to the incisionless stoma. It can be applied to the construction of ileostomies as well as colostomies, end, or loop stomas. Our early experience reveals favorable outcomes. This is perhaps one of the least technically demanding procedures that can be performed through a single incision laparoscopic port.
Improving Teamwork, Confidence, and Collaboration Among Members of a Pediatric Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit Multidisciplinary Team Using Simulation-Based Team Training

Findings show that simulation-based team training (SBTT) is effective at increasing teamwork skills. Postpediatric cardiac surgery cardiac arrest (PPCS-CA) is a high-risk clinical situation with high morbidity and mortality. Whereas adult guidelines managing cardiac arrest after cardiac surgery are available, little exists for pediatric cardiac surgery. The authors developed a post-PPCS-CA algorithm and used SBTT to improve identification and management of PPCS-CA in the pediatric cardiovascular intensive care unit. Their goal was to determine whether participation aids in improving teamwork, confidence, and communication during these events. The authors developed a simulation-based training course using common postcardiac surgical emergency scenarios with specific learning objectives. Simulated scenarios are followed by structured debriefings. Participants were evaluated based on critical performance criteria, key elements in the PPCS-CA algorithm, and Team Strategies and Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety (Team STEPPS) principles. Surveys performed before, immediately after, and 3 months after participation evaluated perception of skill, knowledge, and confidence. The study had 37 participants (23 nurses, 5 cardiology/critical care trainees, 5 respiratory therapists, and 4 noncategorized subjects). Confidence and skill in the roles of team leader, advanced airway management, and cardioversion/defibrillation were increased significantly (p < 0.05) immediately after training and 3 months later. A significant increase (p < 0.05) also was observed in the use of Team STEPPS concepts immediately after training and 3 months later. This study showed SBTT to be effective in improving communication and increasing confidence among members of a multidisciplinary team during crisis scenarios. Thus, SBTT provides an excellent tool for teaching and implementing new processes.
Overcoming Technical Challenges: Prevention and Managing Complications

Laparoscopy for colorectal disease is complex and poses many new challenges for the minimally invasive surgeon. Knowledge of pitfalls and strategies to avoid and mitigate complications will improve outcomes for patients. Techniques for trocar insertion and vascular ligation and maneuvers to lengthen the conduit for an intestinal anastomosis are varied and not applicable to every situation or case. Establishment of pneumoperitoneum and adequate exposure are critical for the safe performance of laparoscopy and can be more difficult in obese patients.
Inhibitor binding alters the directions of domain motions in HIV‐1 reverse transcriptase

Understanding the molecular mechanisms of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT) action and drug inhibition is essential for designing effective antiretroviral therapies. Although comparisons of the different crystal forms of RT give insights into the flexibility of different domains, a direct computational assessment of the effect of inhibitor binding on the collective dynamics of RT is lacking. A structure-based approach is used here for exploring the dynamics of RT in unliganded and inhibitor-bound forms. Non-nucleoside RT inhibitors (NNRTI) are shown to interfere directly with the global hinge-bending mechanism that controls the cooperative motions of the p66 fingers and thumb subdomains. The net effect of nevirapine binding is to change the direction of domain movements rather than suppress their mobilities. The second generation NNRTI, efavirenz, on the other hand, shows the stronger effect of simultaneously reorienting domain motions and obstructing the p66 thumb fluctuations. A second hinge site controlling the global rotational reorientations of the RNase H domain is identified, which could serve as a target for potential inhibitors of RNase H activity.
Narrow Correlated Positron-Electron Peaks from Superheavy Collision Systems

Positron production from superheavy collision systems [1–8] has been under investigation for a decade at the Gesellschaft fur Schwerionenforschung in Darmstadt, West Germany. This discussion will concentrate on the recent studies of correlated emission of electrons with positrons [7] carried out by the EPOS collaboration. Although these are the experiments we are currently pursuing, they have obviously evolved from this decade of work marked by progress in both experiment and theory. Guided by the ongoing developments, immediate investigations have changed from the original goals, but the past has very much influenced the present experimental approach. It is helpful, therefore, towards understanding the directions that have been adopted in the most recent work, to recount briefly the developments that have led to the present interesting juncture in the experiments.
Simulation modeling of prehospital trauma care

Prehospital emergency care, systems are complex and do not respond predictably to changes in management. A combined discrete-continuous simulation model focusing on trauma care was designed and implemented in SIMSCRIPT II.5 to allow prediction of the effect of policy changes on system performance and patient survival.
Detection of coronary artery disease with rapid serial rescanning with potassium-43 at rest.

Abstract To improve the sensitivity and accuracy of the detection of coronary artery disease with potassium-43 imaging at rest, a rapid serial scanning technique was developed to detect appearance time and sequence of myocardial isotope accumulation. The group of 85 patients included normal subjects and patients with angina pectoris, myocardial infarction and miscellaneous nonischemic heart diseases. Each patient also underwent coronary angiography and left ventriculography and the results were compared with the results of scanning. An angiographically demonstrable obstruction of 50 percent or greater luminal diameter in a coronary artery was found in 95 percent of the patients whose first serial myocardial scan at rest, accomplished 4.5 minutes after isotope administration, showed delayed regional appearance or abnormal sequence of accumulation of radioactivity by the end of the second scan. Eighty-five percent of individual lesions in a major coronary artery identified by scanning were found at the same site on angiography. Ventricular aneurysms were demonstrated as positive images during the first serial scan, although later scans showed no myocardial activity. Collateral circulation was demonstrable on serial scanning and, when angiographic evidence of such circulation was available, the recipient arterial bed was always correctly identified. In 32 patients who underwent myocardial imaging at rest and after graded exercise testing, the images at rest correlated better with the angiographic data. In conclusion, rapid serial scanning at rest detected coronary arterial lesions of 50 percent or greater, collateral circulation and, often, ventricular aneurysms as positive images.
PKC Activity and PKC-α mRNA Content Are Reduced in Serum-Deprived Human Neuroblastoma Cells without Concomitant Induction of Differentiation

Abstract Protein kinase C (PKC) is a serine/threonine kinase which is thought to play an important role in cellular proliferation and differentiation. PKC activity is stimulated physiologically by diacylglycerol and experimentally by phorbol esters. Long-term exposure of human neuroblastoma cells to phorbol esters results in down-regulation of PKC activity and induction of neuronal differentiation. In this study, we explored the hypothesis that reduced PKC expression is necessary for differentiation of the human neuroblastoma cell line SK-N-SH. PKC activity and PKC-α mRNA levels were assayed in cultured SK-N-SH cells over a period of several days in the presence or absence of serum. These determinants of PKC expression were compared with several known markers of neuroblastoma differentiation, including neurite outgrowth and steady-state levels of c-myc and GAP43 mRNA. We observed steady losses of PKC activity and PKC-α mRNA content after transfer of cells to serum-free or chemically defined media. However, morphological and biochemical differentiation of SK-N-SH cells occurred only in chemically defined medium, perhaps due to the presence of insulin. We conclude that while loss of PKC may be associated with neuroblastoma differentiation, diminished PKC alone is not sufficient to induce or support the differentiation process.
Characterization of Zinc-Induced Neuronal Death in Primary Cultures of Rat Cerebellar Granule Cells

Abstract Although zinc is essential for the activity of numerous biological systems, and zinc deficiency has been associated with various pathologies, this metal can also exert direct neurotoxic action. In primary cultures of rat cerebellar granule neurons, a brief, 15- to 30-min exposure to zinc (100–500 μM) resulted in concentration-dependent delayed neuronal death. The toxicity of zinc depended on the maturity of the neuronal cultures—it was not apparent prior to Day 5 and it reached a plateau at about 9–10 daysin vitro.We assayed cell injury by measuring mitochondrial functioning (MTT assay) and cell death with the trypan blue exclusion assay. Apoptosis was assayed by the morphological appearance of cells following fluorescence staining with propidium iodide and by thein situTUNEL technique. Mitochondrial injury was an early result of zinc treatment. Actinomycin D, an inhibitor of macromolecular synthesis, attenuated delayed cell death. The calcium channel blockers nimodipine and amlodipine reduced both mitochondrial injury and cell death; the blockade of ionotropic glutamate receptors with MK-801 or CNQX was ineffective. These results suggest that calcium channel-blocker-sensitive mitochondrial injury and DNA damage are operative in the protein-synthesis-dependent neurotoxicity of zinc. An imbalance of zinc homeostasis might play a role in the pathophysiology of apoptosis-associated neurodegenerative disorders.
PEDESTRIAN CROSS FLOW CHARACTERISTICS AND PERFORMANCE

Pedestrian cross flows are common in major activity centers and in special event transportation systems, such as universities, bus stations, art galleries, museums, and places of entertainment. Cro...
Measurement of hepatic blood flow

Abstract Externally measured liver blood flow methods have been based primarily on the hepatic extraction of dyes removed by the polygonal cells or on the hepatic extraction of colloids and other particulate matter phagocytized by the reticuloendothelial (Kupffer) cells of the liver. The latter has generally been the material of choice because the efficiency of removal is nearly 100%. Multiexponential clearance curves have been obtained from the disappearance of materials extracted by the liver. The most rapid component representing a hepatic removal close to 100% is usually sufficiently large to allow reasonably accurate calculation of functional liver blood flow. The effects of increased shunt flow in patients with cirrhosis are reflected by this methodology and correlate well with scanning techniques.
Antigen-dependent versus -independent activation of invariant NKT cells during infection.

CD1d-reactive invariant NKT cells (iNKT) play a vital role in determining the characteristics of immune responses to infectious agents. Previous reports suggest that iNKT cell activation during infection can be: 1) solely driven by cytokines from innate immune cells, 2) require microbial Ag, or 3) require self-Ag. In this study, we examined the role of Ag receptor stimulation in iNKT cells during several bacterial and viral infections. To test for Ag receptor signaling, Nur77gfp BAC transgenic mice, which upregulate GFP in response to Ag receptor but not inflammatory signals, were analyzed. iNKT cells in the reporter mice infected with mouse CMV produced IFN-γ but did not upregulate GFP, consistent with their reported CD1d-independent activation. However, two bacteria known to produce lipid Ags for iNKT cells induced GFP expression and cytokine production. In contrast, although Salmonella typhimurium was proposed to induce the presentation of a self-lipid, iNKT cells produced IFN-γ but did not upregulate GFP postinfection in vivo. Even in CD1d-deficient hosts, iNKT cells were still able to produce IFN-γ after S. typhimurium infection. Furthermore, although it has been proposed that endogenous lipid presentation is a result of TLR stimulation of APCs, injection of different TLR agonists led to iNKT cell IFN-γ but not increased GFP expression. These data indicate that robust iNKT cell responses to bacteria, as well as viruses, can be obtained in the absence of antigenic stimulation.
Dobutamine as a countermeasure for reduced exercise performance of rats exposed to simulated microgravity

Tipton, Charles M., and Lisa A. Sebastian. Dobutamine as a countermeasure for reduced exercise performance of rats exposed to simulated microgravity. J. Appl. Physiol. 82(5): 1607–1615, 1997.—Post-...
Perceived Stress, Stressors, and Coping Mechanisms among Doctor of Pharmacy Students

The primary purpose of this study was to examine perceived stress in doctor of pharmacy students during their first, second, and third years of their program in a fully implemented new curriculum. The secondary objectives were to determine if there is a relationship between perceived stress and certain demographic variables, to compare student pharmacist perceived stress to the perceived stress in the general population, and to examine student reported stressors during pharmacy school and coping strategies employed for those stressors. A previously validated survey (Perceived Stress Scale-10) was given to first, second, and third year student pharmacists. Females exhibited higher mean stress scores than males. The under 22 years and over 32 years age categories exhibited higher mean stress scores than the 22 to 26 year old student population. There was no significant difference in perceived stress scores between classes of the program. Only a portion of the variation in stress scores was predicted by gender, age, marital status, race, and year in curriculum. Stress scores among these student pharmacists are higher overall than those in previously published probability samples in the general population. Class assignments and completing electronic portfolios were the top stressors reported. Spending time with family and friends was the most frequent coping mechanism reported. Programming related to stress reduction (particularly among female and nontraditional age students) appears warranted.
Moving Toward Global Primordial Prevention in Cardiovascular Disease: The Heart of the Matter

Over the past decade, incremental progress has been made in reducing mortality rates in patients with established cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the United States [(1)][1]. These favorable trends largely reflect improved uptake of cardiovascular drug and device therapies, streamlined processes of
Apolipoproteins in Different Amyloidoses

Formation of amyloid fibrils from an amyloidogenic precursor peptide is a stochastic process. Initially, conditions do not favor aggregation, and this period corresponds to the lag phase that precedes the possible formation of fibrils. This lag phase can be overcome by the amyloidogenic peptide reaching a critically high concentration, or via binding with apolipoproteins or other chaperone proteins. Apolipoproteins interact with numerous amyloidogenic peptides in diverse systemic and organ limited amyloidoses because of their natural tendency to bind hydrophobic domains present on these peptides. Apolipoproteins appear to play an essential role in the kinetics of amyloid deposition. Apoliprotein E (apo E), which has been found to be involved in the majority of amylodoses, helps to overcome the initially unfavorable kinetic barrier of amyloid fibril formation, and typically shows isoform-specific effects that influence the epidemiology, clinical course, and pathological aspects of disease. The modulatory effect of apolipoproteins may not be evident if either the amyloid-prone protein is present in great excess or carries a mutation rendering it extremely amyloidogenic. Under these conditions amyloid deposition can occur without the help of chaperones. The exact binding site of amyloidogenic peptides on apo E and other apolipoproteins is unclear, and it remains unknown if it is a linear or a conformational epitope. Mapping this site could provide a means to clarify the mechanism of interaction between apolipoproteins and their peptide ligands, as well as allowing the generation of peptidomimetic compounds that block this interaction in an effort to develop successful treatment approaches. It appears that apo E has one universal site interacting with various amyloidogenic peptides regardless of their sequence. Targeting the pathological chaperones of amyloidoses such as apo E appears to be an attractive approach from a pharmacokinetic point of view, because the concentration of these molecules in amyloid deposits is usually 100 to 200 times lower than the concentration of the actual fibril-forming peptide (Ma et al., 1994; Wisniewski et al., 1994a). In addition, blocking this interaction between apo E and amyloidogenic proteins is unlikely to be associated with any significant toxicity, making this a significant therapeutic target.
Quadrupole moment of the 8 − isomer in Sb 112

The quadrupole interaction of the ${8}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ isomeric state (${T}_{\frac{1}{2}}=536$ ns) in $^{112}\mathrm{Sb}$ has been measured using the time differential perturbed angular distribution method. The linear momentum transfer from the $^{103}\mathrm{Rh}(^{12}\mathrm{C}, 3n)$ reaction recoiled the isomeric nuclei into single crystals of Sb and Sn and a polycrystalline In foil. From the quadrupole coupling constant for the ${8}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ state of $^{112}\mathrm{Sb}$ in Sb, the quadrupole moment was obtained relative to the moment of the stable ground state of $^{121}\mathrm{Sb}$: $|\frac{Q(^{112}\mathrm{Sb}, {8}^{\ensuremath{-}})}{Q(^{121}\mathrm{Sb}, {\frac{5}{2}}^{+})}|=1.958(10)$. The value is in accordance with the description of the isomer as an odd proton coupled to a neutron-excited Sn core. In addition, the measured coupling constants in Sn and In allow the determination of the quadrupole moments of isomers in $^{120,122}\mathrm{Sb}$ and $^{115}\mathrm{Sb}$.NUCLEAR REACTIONS $^{103}\mathrm{Rh}(^{12}\mathrm{C}, 3n)^{112}\mathrm{Sb}$, $E=50$ MeV, pulsed beam, recoil implantation into Sb single crystal, Sn single crystal, In; measured ${I}_{\ensuremath{\gamma}}(\ensuremath{\theta}, t)$ quadrupole modulation; deduced $Q$.
Gender : Perception of attributes in inanimate referents

In English, inanimate referents that are not clearly defined in terms of sex-related attributes do not seem readily classifiable into feminine or masculine categories. The present study of gender use by American speakers tested the gender connotations of English inanimate referents commonly considered or perceived as "neuter". The results suggest that, when a noun is strongly connoted the natural gender rule applies, showing more salience for women than for men. However, contrary to the findings of current research, ehen the inanimate noun is conceived as neuter it is not necessarily labeled as masculine. Womwn are more likely than men to classify inanimate referents into feminine and masculine categories, and a confidence level test revealed that answers were more often random for male respondents while females tended to favor the feminime category. In light of this feminization tendency, this study suggests that in addition to its major function as a reference-tracking device, gender could be used as a "status marker"
GenFin: Genetic Algorithm-Based Multiobjective Statistical Logic Circuit Optimization Using Incremental Statistical Analysis

As the semiconductor technology node scales into the deep submicrometer regime, it has become very difficult to obtain high IC yields because the process–voltage–temperature variations induce large spreads in delay and power. In this paper, we propose a new framework, called GenFin, which is, as far as we know, the first to target the multiobjective yield optimization of logic circuits. Since FinFETs are a promising substitute for CMOS at 22-nm technology node and beyond, we evaluate the framework with a 22-nm FinFET logic library. By combining the power of genetic algorithm (GA) and adaptive multiobjective optimization, GenFin produces a set of nondominated logic circuits whose timing, leakage power, and dynamic power yields are simultaneously optimized. This can help designers make tradeoff decisions wisely and avoid suboptimal solutions. We also propose an incremental statistical circuit analyzer, called incremental FinPrin, that speeds up the statistical static timing analysis by up to $9.6\times $ and the statistical power analysis by up to $2235.7\times $ , while incurring errors of only up to 0.031% in mean and 0.74% in standard deviation relative to nonincremental analysis. We use heuristics based on the deterministic timing analysis and gate criticality to reduce the GA search space and also improve the quality of its solutions. We present extensive experimental results to demonstrate the efficacy of GenFin.
A bicistronic retrovirus vector containing a picornavirus internal ribosome entry site allows for correction of X-linked CGD by selection for MDR1 expression

Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is an inherited hematologic disorder involving failure of phagocytic cell oxidase to produce superoxide (O2-.), resulting in recurrent infections. The success of retrovirus gene therapy for hematopoietic diseases will be limited both by the efficiency of ex vivo transduction of target cells and by the ability of corrected cells to replace uncorrected cells in vivo. Using MFG-based retrovirus vectors containing oxidase genes, we have previously demonstrated in vitro correction of CGD, but transduction rates were low. In the present study we explore a strategy for providing a selective growth advantage to transduced cells, while retaining the single promoter feature of MFG responsible for high virus titer and enhanced protein production. We constructed a bicistronic retrovirus producing a single mRNA encoding both the therapeutic gene for the X-linked form of CGD (X-CGD), gp91phox, and the selectable human multidrug resistance gene, MDR1 linked together by the encephalomyocarditis virus internal ribosome entry site (IRES). As a control we constructed a bicistronic vector with the polio virus IRES element and using the bacterial neomycin resistance gene (neor) as the selective element. In Epstein-Barr virus transformed B (EBV-B) cells from an X-CGD patient, a tissue culture model of CGD, we show correction of the CGD defect and complete normalization of the cell population using either of these vectors and appropriate selection (vincristine for MDR1 and G418 for neor). Using a chemiluminescence assay of O2-. production, populations of cells transduced with either vector demonstrated initial correction levels of from less than 0.1% up to 2.7% of normal EBV-B cell oxidase activity. With either construct, cell growth under appropriate selection enriched the population of transduced cells, resulting in correction of X-CGD EBV-B cells to a level of O2-. production equalling or exceeding that of normal EBV-B cells. These studies show that a therapeutic gene can be linked to a resistance gene by an IRES element, allowing for selective enrichment of cells expressing the therapeutic gene. Furthermore, the use of MDR1 as a selective element in our studies validates an important approach to gene therapy that could allow in vivo selection and is generalizable to a number of therapeutic settings.
Normal granulocyte transfusion therapy: treatment of septicemia due to gram-negative bacteria.

Abstract Ninety-six granulocyte transfusions were given from compatible normal donors to 39 neutropenic patients receiving appropriate antibiotics for documented septicemia due to gram-negative bacteria. A matched group of 37 patients treated concurrently with appropriate antibiotics alone served as a control. Eleven of 37 patients (29.7 per cent) in the control group survived the episode of sepsis. Eighteen of the 39 patients (46.1 per cent) receiving transfusions survived; however, 12 patients receiving four or more consecutive daily granulocyte transfusions from compatible donors had complete recovery (100 per cent). In contrast only five of 19 control patients (26 per cent) surviving long enough to receive four transfusions (more than five days) recovered. These studies indicate that compatible granulocyte transfusions (as defined by absence of recipient leukoagglutinins and lymphocytotoxic antibodies against donor leukocytes) can be effective in the clinical management of septicemia due to gram-negat...
Interaction of G-Quadruplexes in the Full-Length 3′ Human Telomeric Overhang

The 3' human telomeric overhang provides ample opportunities for the formation and interaction of G-quadruplexes, which have shown impacts on many biological functions including telomerase activities in the telomere region. However, in the few investigations on DNA constructs that approach to the full length of the human telomeric overhang, the presence of higher-order quadruplex-quadruplex interactions is still a subject of debate. Herein, we employed dynamic splint ligation (DSL) to prepare a DNA construct, 5'-(TTAGGG)24 or 24G, which has the length comparable to the full stretch of 3' human telomeric overhang. Using mechanical unfolding assays in laser tweezers, we observed a minor population (∼5%) of higher-order interactions between G-quadruplexes, while the majority of the quadruplexes follow the bead-on-a-string model. Analyses on the noninteracting G-quadruplexes in the 24G construct showed features similar to those of the stand-alone G-quadruplexes in the 5'-(TTAGGG)4 (4G) construct. As each 24G construct contains as many as six G-quadruplexes, this method offers increased throughput for the time-consuming mechanical unfolding experiments of non-B DNA structures.
The Radioactivity of Ga 66

The disintegration of ${\mathrm{Ga}}^{66}$ results in four positron groups with end-point energies and relative intensities of 4.144 Mev, 87 percent; 1.4 Mev, 4.3 percent; 0.878 Mev, 6.9 percent; and 0.403 Mev, 1.7 percent. Nuclear gamma-rays having energies of 1.03 Mev, 2.75 Mev and 4.8 Mev are observed. Measurement of the associated Auger electrons at 7.3 kev indicates that 34 percent of all disintegrations are by $K$-electron capture. The 4.14-Mev positron spectrum is found to have a shape characteristic of an allowed transition. In consideration of its high $\mathrm{ft}$-value, it is therefore inferred that this transition is once forbidden with a change of parity and a spin change of 0 or 1 unit. Furthermore, this transition does not go to the ground state of ${\mathrm{Zn}}^{66}$, but rather appears to be followed by the 1.03-Mev gamma-ray. The direct 5.17-Mev transition between ground states is found to proceed in less than 0.4 percent of the positron decays. This transition is apparently twice forbidden with a spin change of 3 units and is effectively outcompeted by the other less forbidden modes of decay.
The Study on Germicidal Efficacy and Capacity Test of Three Disinfectants

Objective To understand effect of different category disinfectants and the influence of adding germ liquid continuously on the disinfection to disinfectants.Methods suspension fluid quota sterilization and the energy experiment in " Technical Standard For Disinfection "(2002 version) were used.Results Staphylococcus aureus was reacted with the Danfeng 84 Disinfectant containing the effect chlorine 300 mg/L function for 10 minutes,the Kebao Sodium dichloroisocyanurate for 15 minutes,logarithms values of the two disinfectant sterilization 5.06(4.93~5.18) and 5.01(4.74~5.22).Staphylococcus aureus was reacted with White Snow 84 Disinfectant containing effective chlorine 600 mg/L for 10 minutes,the logarithms value was 5.13(5.07～5.18).The same concentration of Kebao Sodium dichloroisocyanurate and Danfeng 84 disinfectant liquid disinfectant were used to kill Escherichia coli for 5 minutes and 10 minutes respectively.The logarithms values were more than 5.00.Snowwhite disinfectant containing 600mg/L was reacted with Escherichia coli for 10 minutes,the logarithms value was 5.11(5.07~5.16).The lowest qualified concentration of the energy experiments in order was the Kebao Sodium dichloroisocyanurate 500mg/L.White Snow 84 disinfectant 600mg/L,Danfeng 84 2400mg/L disinfectant.Conclusion Bactericidal effects of different disinfectants were different obviously.Danfeng 84 Disinfectant was the weakest,the the Kebao Sodium dichloroisocyanurate was the strongest.
Molecular-targeted Therapy for Renal Cell Carcinoma

Abstract Recent translational research has led to the development of treatments that target important signaling molecules critical to the pathogenesis of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). These therapeutic agents focus on molecular or cellular changes that are specific to RCC. The current molecular-targeted therapies focus on one of three pathways: (1) small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors, (2) mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors and (3) monoclonal antibodies including vascular endothelial growth factor-A. This review discusses the Food and Drug Administration-approved agents that target one of these three pathways. Each pathway class will be discussed in detail regarding the mechanism and treatment efficacy with a particular focus on adverse events.
Sickle cell disease

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited hemoglobinopathy caused by a mutation in the sixth amino acid of the β-globin gene (HBB). It is the most common serious genetic diseases in childhood, affecting approximately 1 in 2500 births and 100 000 individuals in the USA, in addition to 300 000 new cases globally each year. Central nervous system injury is the most debilitating frequent complication of SCD and includes stroke, silent cerebral infarct (SCI), and cognitive impairment. Among children with sickle cell anemia (HbSS), 11% had a stroke by age 18 years before the implementation of transcranial Doppler screening. SCI is identified in 27% of children with HbSS by their 5th birthday. Children who develop SCI have greater cognitive impairment compared with either children with HbSS without SCI or siblings without SCD. A recent study of adults demonstrated significant cognitive dysfunction, even in participants with apparently mild SCD.
Instructional design framework for the sex and gender-specific health multimedia case-based learning modules.

The goal of the Sex and Gender Specific Health (SGSH) curriculum at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) is to advance the understanding of sex/gender differences, increase the awareness of gender-specific health issues, and improve the knowledge of sex and gender evidence-based medicine. The purpose of this paper is to explain the development and theoretical rationale for an important aspect of the curriculum: the SGSH Multimedia Case-Based Learning Modules (MCBLMs). The MCBLMs are designed to be used throughout the TTUHSC curriculum as a stand-alone or a supplementary instructional resource. The MCBLMs provide students with authentic learning opportunities that integrate the learning of SGSH with more traditional clinical knowledge and skills. The MCBLMs are specifically designed to enhance students’ clinical reasoning and decision-making skills by portraying realistic clinical scenarios. In this way, students are able to practice effective SGSH as competent health-care professionals.