cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Regulation of cholesterol acquisition and utilization in the corpus luteum.

The enzymatic reactions involved in the formation of progesterone in the corpus luteum have been known for some time, but the factors which control the synthesis and secretion of this hormone are not fully understood (Strauss et al., 1981). Two aspects of the steroidogenic process deserve attention as loci for regulation by gonadotropins or other substances; the acquisition of the substrate, cholesterol, and cholesterol side chain cleavage, which is generally accepted as a rate-determining step. Because functional luteal cells produce relatively large quantities of steroid, they must have an efficient means of obtaining cholesterol. Recent studies we have carried out demonstrate that lipoprotein-carried cholesterol is the primary substrate for rat luteal tissue and that specific, saturable binding sites mediate the uptake of high density lipoprotein sterol (Christie et al., 1979; Schuler et al., 1979; Schuler, Toaff and Strauss, 1981; Rosenblum et al., 1981; Schuler et al., 1981a; Christie et al., 1981). Just how the number of lipoprotein receptors on luteal cells is regulated has not yet been defined.
Biomechanics of Lumbar Spine Instability

Low back pain is the most common and costly disorder of the musculoskeletal system. The magnitude of the problem is well documented by the frequency of its occurrence. In western society, 50%–70% of the population will have low back pain once in their lifetime, and 18% of the population has low back pain at any one time. The cost of this disease for the United States has been estimated at $15–50 billion per year. Although the cause of most low back pain is not known, spinal instability is considered as one of the most important causes [1].
Reverse-martensitic hcp-to-fcc transformation in technetium under shock compression

The equation of state and principal shock Hugoniot of the elemental technetium to 285 GPa were predicted from ab initio molecular dynamics simulations using Erpenbeck's approach based on the Rankine-Hugoniot jump conditions. The phase space was sampled by carrying out NVT simulations for isotherms between 300 and 4500 K and densities ranging from ρ ≃ 11.4 to 16.7 g/cm3. A temperature-driven hcp → fcc reverse-martensitic phase transformation is predicted to occur at T ≃ 2800 K in Tc bulk subjected to shock loading. The results from dynamic compression were compared to recent diamond-anvil-cell hydrostatic compression data and cold-curve predictions using the density functional theory. The melting curve of Tc is predicted from Lindemann's criterion.The equation of state and principal shock Hugoniot of the elemental technetium to 285 GPa were predicted from ab initio molecular dynamics simulations using Erpenbeck's approach based on the Rankine-Hugoniot jump conditions. The phase space was sampled by carrying out NVT simulations for isotherms between 300 and 4500 K and densities ranging from ρ ≃ 11.4 to 16.7 g/cm3. A temperature-driven hcp → fcc reverse-martensitic phase transformation is predicted to occur at T ≃ 2800 K in Tc bulk subjected to shock loading. The results from dynamic compression were compared to recent diamond-anvil-cell hydrostatic compression data and cold-curve predictions using the density functional theory. The melting curve of Tc is predicted from Lindemann's criterion.
Common Ownership and Voluntary Disclosure

Investors increasingly hold stock in multiple firms that compete in the same product market (“common ownership”). Taking market share from peers no longer maximizes shareholder value under common ownership, which incentivizes managers to implement less competitive strategies (Azar, 2016). Consistent with the existence of a negative relation between competition and disclosure, we predict and find that common ownership is positively associated with voluntary disclosure. We also show the result is diminished in industries for which there are direct communication channels, industries with low barriers to entry, industries facing high demand uncertainty, and industries containing dissimilar firms. Lastly, we examine an exogenous shock to common ownership to support our assertion that common ownership causes changes to disclosure behavior. Our paper contributes to the literature regarding the influence of shareholder preferences on disclosure, suggesting there are spillover effects from common ownership to other shareholders in the form of increased disclosure.
Is antagonistic pleiotropy ubiquitous in aging biology

Lay Summary: An evolutionary mechanism of aging was hypothesized 60 years ago to be the genetic trade-off between early life fitness and late life mortality. Genetic evidence supporting this hypothesis was unavailable then, but has accumulated recently. These tradeoffs, known as antagonistic pleiotropy, are common, perhaps ubiquitous. George Williams' 1957 paper developed the antagonistic pleiotropy hypothesis of aging, which had previously been hinted at by Peter Medawar. Antagonistic pleiotropy, as it applies to aging, hypothesizes that animals possess genes that enhance fitness early in life but diminish it in later life and that such genes can be favored by natural selection because selection is stronger early in life even as they cause the aging phenotype to emerge. No genes of the sort hypothesized by Williams were known 60 years ago, but modern molecular biology has now discovered hundreds of genes that, when their activity is enhanced, suppressed, or turned off, lengthen life and enhance health under laboratory conditions. Does this provide strong support for Williams' hypothesis? What are the implications of Williams' hypothesis for the modern goal of medically intervening to enhance and prolong human health? Here we briefly review the current state of knowledge on antagonistic pleiotropy both under wild and laboratory conditions. Overall, whenever antagonistic pleiotropy effects have been seriously investigated, they have been found. However, not all trade-offs are directly between reproduction and longevity as is often assumed. The discovery that antagonistic pleiotropy is common if not ubiquitous implies that a number of molecular mechanisms of aging may be widely shared among organisms and that these mechanisms of aging can be potentially alleviated by targeted interventions.
Autoimmune Cerebellar Ataxia Associated With Anti-GRAF1 Antibody (P1.080)

Objective: To describe a newly identified autoimmune cerebellar ataxia due to GRAF1 antibody To describe clinical experience of treatment with high dose corticosteroids, plasma exchange, and mycophenolate Background: Autoimmune cerebellar ataxia associated with GRAF1 antibody (ARHGAP26 antibody) has been rarely reported. Here, we present our experience with one case. Design/Methods: Case presentation Results: 35 yo AAF with no significant past medical history, presented with complaints of progressive slurred speech, balance impairment, generalized weakness and paresthesias, and double vision since one and a half years. Family history was negative for any genetic or neurological disorders. She had an extensive work up for possible metabolic, toxic, autoimmune, and paraneoplastic etiologies prior to our evaluations and was presumptively diagnosed with spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA). She required assistance with activities of daily living and was wheelchair bound upon our initial evaluation. She had scanning dysarthria, horizontal nystagmus to L>R, severe ataxia, wide based gait, and positive Romberg’s test. MRI Brain was significant for cerebellar atrophy. CSF was significant for elevated MBP and two oligoclonal bands. CT Chest/Abdomen/Pelvis was unremarkable. Commercial CSF paraneoplastic panel evaluation was negative. However, immunofluorescent staining was positive and further evaluation identified GRAF1 antibody (also known as ARHGAP26 autoantibody). She was treated with high dose methylprednisolone and plasma exchange for autoimmune cerebellar ataxia with substantial improvement in her speech, unsteadiness, and gait. She was started on mycophenolate for maintenance immune-suppression and she is doing well. Conclusions: GRAF1 antibody is a rare, newly described, autoimmune cause of cerebellar ataxia. Limited experience suggests that it is treatment responsive. Our case highlights significant response to corticosteroids, plasma exchange, and mycophenolate. Disclosure: Dr. Amrutkar has nothing to disclose. Dr. Burton has nothing to disclose.
Cover crop species affect mycorrhizae-mediated nutrient uptake and pest resistance in maize

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can increase plant nutrient uptake and chemical defense production, both of which can improve plants’ ability to resist insect herbivory. Cover crops—non-commercial species planted in between cash crops in a crop rotation—can naturally alter both soil nutrients and AMF. We tested whether different cover crop species alter AMF colonization, plant nutrient status and plant–insect interactions in a subsequent maize crop. Cover crop species were either non-mycorrhizal, non-leguminous (canola, forage radish), mycorrhizal non-leguminous (cereal rye, oats), mycorrhizal leguminous (clover, pea) or absent (fallow). We measured the cascading consequences of cover crop treatment on maize root AMF colonization, maize growth and performance of an herbivorous insect (European corn borer) feeding on the maize. Maize AMF colonization was greater in plots previously planted with mycorrhizal (rye, oats) than non-mycorrhizal (canola, radish) cover crops or no cover crop (fallow). AMF colonization was linked to increased plant phosphorous and nitrogen, and maize growth increased with low plant N:P. Induced jasmonic acid pathway plant defenses increased with increasing maize growth and AMF colonization. European corn borer survivorship decreased with lower plant N:P, and insect development rate decreased with increased induced plant defenses. Our data describe a cascade in which cover crop species selection can increase or decrease mycorrhizal colonization of subsequent maize crop roots, which in turn impacts phosphorus uptake and may affect herbivory resistance in the maize. These results suggest that farmers could select cover crop species to manage nutrient uptake and pest resistance, in order to amend or limit fertilizer and pesticide use.
Fournier’s gangrene as an initial manifestation of acute promyelocytic leukemia: A case report and review of the literature:

Fournier's gangrene is classically associated with diabetes mellitus and alcohol use disorder. While it is associated with chemotherapy, there are few case reports of Fournier's gangrene as the initial presentation of acute myelogenous leukemia. A 38-year-old male presented with progressive scrotal swelling and hematochezia. Blood cell count showed depression of all cell lines without myeloblasts. He received broad-spectrum antibiotics and underwent surgical debridement once. Urgent bone marrow biopsy confirmed acute promyelocytic leukemia. The patient was started on chemotherapy. He was discharged without relapse of the infection. This is the fourth case of acute myelogenous leukemia presenting as Fournier's gangrene in the literature and the only case to have survived. This brings forth a possible diagnostic consideration in patients without obvious predisposing risk factors for Fournier's gangrene, particularly in those with pancytopenia. Coordination with surgical services as well as hematology/oncology specialists is imperative to survival of these dual diagnosis patients.
Promoting Significant Learning: A Case Study in Computational Chemistry

This paper describes various pedagogical efforts implemented to promote significant learning in a computational chemistry course. The taxonomy of significant learning advanced by Fink (2003) is used as a framework to discuss the results. In this taxonomy, Fink identifies six categories of learning: foundational, application, integration, human dimension, caring, and learning how to learn. Significant learning occurs when all six kinds of learning are promoted. In the computational chemistry course, the learning outcomes are aligned with these kinds of learning, and students are provided with learning activities to get them engaged with the course content. These activities purposefully activate students’ prior knowledge, increase their motivation, develop basic skills, apply and integrate what they learn in realistic situations, develop an appreciation for computational chemistry as an ally in science, and further their ability to work independently and with others, and to continue learning about the subject matter beyond the course.
Pavement maintenance practices of low-volume roads and potential enhancement: the regional experience of Colorado pavement management system

Most transportation agencies employ low-cost surface treatments and light pavement rehabilitation as affordable maintenance strategies on Low-volume roads (LVRs). Yet, decisions about these treatme...
Effect of Oxidizer Type on Solid Fuel Combustion

An experimental study was conducted that explored the effects of oxidizers on solid fuel combustion characteristics. A counterflow diffusion flame experiment was used to explore the combustion char...
A Cost Effective Test Screening Circuit for embedded SRAM with Resume Standby on 110-nm SoC/MCU

We demonstrate an ultra-low standby power embedded SRAM with cost effective test screening circuits on 110-nm SoC/MCU. A source bias design technique has been applied to reduce SRAM standby power in the resume standby mode where the stored data is retained. Meanwhile the testing time is increased due to the long pause time to screening the retention failures, because the source bias level will be shifted slightly by small SRAM leakage current. Therefore, a 2-stage test screening method for resume standby mode is newly proposed. It is applied for only low-temperature test loop to minimize the total testing time without any test coverage loss. Test chips including 130kbit SRAMs on 110-nm show full reading and writing operations and 0.28 pW/cell resume standby power at 1.5 V typical supply voltage and 25°C. The testing time is reduced to 1/50 by proposed 2-stage screening testing circuits with only 0.03% area overhead.
Sleeve Gastrectomy in Patients with Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

A body mass index (BMI) > 35 kg/m2 is a relative contraindication to heart transplantation in patients with end-stage heart failure. Bariatric surgery can be considered either concomitantly with continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (CF-LVAD) placement, or staged after CF-LVAD has been placed. We sought to evaluate the outcomes of these approaches. An electronic search was performed to identify all relevant studies. After assessment for inclusion and exclusion criteria, eight studies were pooled for systematic review and metaanalysis. Overall, of 59 patients, 22 (37%) underwent simultaneous sleeve gastrectomy with CF-LVAD implantation while 37 (63%) underwent staged sleeve gastrectomy after CF-LVAD. The mean age of patients was 46 years (95% CI: 39–53) with 40% females. Mean BMI at most recent follow-up (33.4 kg/m2, 95% CI: 30.2–36.6) was significantly lower compared with mean preoperative BMI (46.7 kg/m2, 95% CI: 42.9–50.6) (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in total incidence of postoperative complications (simultaneous, 16% (95% CI: 1–87%) versus staged, 23% (95% CI: 7–53%)) or in overall survival (simultaneous, 93% (95% CI: 72–99%) versus staged, 79% (95% CI: 60–90%), p = 0.17) for average follow-up time of 12.7 months. Bariatric surgery resulted in 66% of patients (95% CI: 51–79) to be listed for heart transplantation, including 33% (95% CI: 22–47) who were transplanted. Both simultaneous and staged bariatric surgeries with CF-LVAD placement have comparable outcomes and significantly reduce BMI. This can allow previously ineligible patients to undergo heart transplantation.
Exploration of Iron- and α-Ketoglutarate-Dependent Dioxygenases as Practical Biocatalysts in Natural Product Synthesis

Catalytic C–H oxidation is a powerful transformation with enormous promise to streamline access to complex molecules. In recent years, biocatalytic C–H oxidation strategies have received tremendous attention due to their potential to address unmet regio- and stereoselectivity challenges that are often encountered with the use of small-molecule-based catalysts. This Account provides an overview of recent contributions from our laboratory in this area, specifically in the use of iron- and α-ketoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases in chemoenzymatic syntheses of complex natural products. 1 Introduction 2 Overview of Natural Oxygenases 3 C5 Hydroxylation of Aliphatic Amino Acids 4 Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of Tambromycin 5 Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of Cepafungin I and Related Analogues 6 Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of GE81112 B1 and Related Analogues 7 Conclusion and Future Direction
Online Distributed Convex Optimization on Dynamic Networks

This note presents a distributed optimization scheme over a network of agents in the presence of cost uncertainties and over switching communication topologies. Inspired by recent advances in distributed convex optimization, we propose a distributed algorithm based on dual sub-gradient averaging. A convergence rate analysis for the offline optimization, and a regret analysis for the online case, as a function of the underlying dynamic network topology are then presented for both classes of uncertainties. Application of the proposed setup is then discussed for uncertain sensor networks.
“Squeezing the Life Out of Each Day”: Emerging Adult Women’s Work-Family Expectations in STEM:

Work-family conflict can create challenges for women in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers. Little is known, however, about how young women in STEM reason about future work-f...
Expression of lactate dehydrogenase A and B isoforms in the mouse kidney

Cellular release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is being used as an injury marker; however, the exact localization of LDH within the nephron remains unclear. We show that LDH isoform A is expressed...
The Role of Sociocultural Theory in L2 Empirical Research

Second language acquisition (SLA) is a complex, interdisciplinary field of study which has its roots in subjects as varied as cognition and psychology to social applications and actions in anthropology and sociology (Han & Nassaji, 2019). One of the oldest and most influential ideas in SLA comes from the sociocultural perspective and, in particular, the work of Soviet psychologist Lev Vygotsky. Nearly a century ago, Vygotsky attempted to connect the seemingly disparate areas of society, culture, and cognition in his unifying, wide-angle theory called Sociocultural Theory (SCT).
Calculated oxidation potentials predict reactivity in Baeyer-Mills reactions.

Azobenzenes are widely used as dyes and photochromic compounds, with the Baeyer–Mills reaction serving as the most common method for their preparation. This transformation is often plagued by low yields due to the formation of undesired azoxybenzene. Here, we explore electronic effects dictating the formation of the azoxybenzene side-product. Using calculated oxidation potentials, we were able to predict reaction outcomes and improve reaction efficiency simply by modulating the oxidation potential of the arylamine component.
Evidence for the integration of total and free testosterone levels in the management of prostate cancer.

OBJECTIVE To comprehensively assess total and calculated free testosterone levels in a consecutive group of patients with prostate cancer (PCa) and any potential impact on disease aggressiveness and recurrence outcomes. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS The study included a single-centre prospective cohort of 882 patients presenting for radical prostatectomy from 2009 to 2018. Data on total testosterone (TT), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and calculated free testosterone (cFT) were prospectively collected. Stepwise logistic regression models were used to assess correlations of TT and cFT with pathological Gleason Grade Group (GGG), extraprostatic extension (EPE), seminal vesicle invasion (SVI) and biochemical recurrence (BCR). RESULTS Total testosterone remained nearly constant across decades (40s-80s): 0.09 decrease/year (R = 0.02), while SHBG increased 0.87/year (R = 0.32) and cFT decreased 0.08/year (R = -0.02). Low cFT of <5.5 independently predicted: very-high-risk GGG (odds ratio [OR] 0.435, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.846-0.994; P = 0.036), EPE (OR 0.557, 95% CI 0.810-0.987; P = 0.011), SVI (OR 0.396, 95% CI 0.798-1.038; P = 0.059), and BCR within 1 year after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (OR 0.638, 95% CI 0.971-3.512, P = 0.046). TT was not a predictor. CONCLUSION In contrast to popular belief, testosterone remained stable in men aged 40-80 years, whereas free testosterone decreased by 2-3%/year. Low cFT was an independent predictor of very-high-risk PCa and BCR.
Report of the Nabc Ad-Hoc Committee on Ethics

1. Each NABC member institutions should ensure that subject matter on ethical issues associated with food and agricultural biotechnology is systematically integrated into the curriculum of their institution. The pattern of implementation will vary a teach institution, but we expect that some combination of the following three strategies will be employed at most institutions. a) Modules Included in Basic and Applied Science Courses b) Modules Included in General Courses on Applied Ethics c) Special courses on Ethics and Food Biotechnology
Cultural Security: Evaluating The Power Of Culture In International Affairs

Foreword Introduction Art and International Security Plunderer and Protector of Cultural Property Conflict Art Collecting Cultural Intelligence Art Sales as Cultural Intelligence Strategic Value of African Tribal Art Artefacts of Wartime Art Crime Art-Intelligence Programs From Concept to Engagement Alternative Power
Representation of Complete Lattices by Sets

Throughout this paper L denotes a complete lattice. That is a set of elements a, b, c, ⋯ partly ordered by a relation «⊂» such that to every class (aν) of elements aν in L there exists a greatest lower bound \( \mathop{ \cup }\limits_{\nu } \) aν in L. Then also the least upper bound \( \mathop{ \cup }\limits_{\nu } \)aν exists in L and furthermore there is a greatest element e in L, namely the g. l. b. of the empty subclass of L, and there exists the smallest element 0 in L, the g. l. b. of all elements of L.
Lack of predictive correlation between peripheral arterial tone and colour flow Doppler parameters in men with erectile dysfunction

Objective To evaluate whether peripheral arterial tone (PAT) can predict the results of penile colour flow Doppler in the evaluation of erectile dysfunction (ED). Patients and Methods Fifty men presenting to an ED clinic were tested with an Endo-PAT2000 machine (Itamar Medical, Caesarea, Israel), which assessed augmentation index (AI), a measure of arterial stiffness, and reactive hyperaemia index (RHI), a measure of endothelial vasodilatation. Penile haemodynamics were measured and used to identify both arterial insufficiency (abnormal peak systolic velocity [PSV]) and veno-occlusive disease (abnormal end diastolic velocity [EDV]) after pharmacological erection with prostaglandin E1 using colour flow Doppler. Between-group comparisons were carried out using a Wilcoxon rank-sum test for continuous variables and a chi-squared test for categorical variables. Simple and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to analyse the correlation between outcome measures. Results Using Doppler analysis, 58% of patients were found to have arterial insufficiency (abnormal PSV) and 48% had veno-occlussive disease (abnormal EDV). Using the Endo-PAT machine, 44% of patients were found to have increased arterial stiffness (abnormal AI) and 54% had decreased endothelial relaxation (abnormal RHI). Neither AI nor RHI were correlated with PSV or EDV. The closest association was between high AI and low PSV, with a sensitivity of 0.55 and specificity of 0.71. Conclusions In our patient cohort, PAT did not reliably predict the results of penile Doppler. The two tests appear to measure different although potentially complementary aspects of the local and systemic vasculature.
Adolescent problem drinking: Psychosocial aspects and developmental outcomes

The multiple functions that the use of drugs can serve for adolescents is by now well established (Jessor, 1984). Drug use by adolescents can be a way of affirming independence from parents, signalling commonality with the peer group, expressing opposition to the norms and values of the larger society, coping with stress and with apprehensions about personal inadequacy and social role failure, and establishing a sense of personal identity. In addition, drug use can serve an important developmental function; it can constitute a claim on transition from a less mature to a more mature status and represent, symbolically, the passage out of adolescence and entrance into the stage of youth or young adulthood. Since all of these functions are central to the adaptations of adolescent life, it is not surprising that the use of drugs has become a salient issue for young people.
The ‘ileal brake’ after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis

Abstract The aim of this study was to assess if infusion of oleic acid into the ileal pouch would slow gastric emptying and small-bowel transit, delay defecation, and increase plasma levels of enteroglucagon, neurotensin, or peptide YY in patients with colectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis. Eight subjects with chronic ulcerative colitis who had undergone the operation were studied on 2 consecutive days. On 1 day, saline (154 mM NaCl) was infused into the ileal pouch, and on the other day emulsified oleic acid (152 mM) was infused. The subjects ate a 300-kcal mixed meal containing liquid labelled with 99m Tc-DTPA. To assess small-bowel transit concurrently with gastric emptying, a second marker, 111 In-DTPA, was instilled through a tube into the duodenum at the end of the meal. Transit of both markers was monitored scintigraphically. Infusion of oleic acid into the ileal pouch slowed gastric emptying and small-bowel transit, and delayed the time to defecation compared with saline infusion. Neither the ileal pouch infusion alone or the meal alone altered plasma levels of enteroglucagon, neurotensin, or peptide YY, but the combination of the oleic acid infusion and the meal increased the levels of all 3 hormones. It was concluded that an "ileal brake" on gastrointestinal transit is functional following ileal pouch-anal anastomosis. Oleic acid placed into the ileal pouch slowed gastrointestinal transit and delayed defecation, effects which may have clinical application. The mechanism mediating the ileal brake may in part be hormonal.
Diagnosing Cognitive Malingering in Patients with Work-Related Pain: Four Cases

Presented are four patients with work-related pain in whom cognitive malingering was diagnosed using the Slick et al. (1999) criteria for Malingered Neurocognitive Dysfunction (MND). These cases demonstrate that cognitive malingering does occur in pain and that neuropsychological techniques for the detection of malingering can be effective in this population. They also illustrate the application of the Slick criteria to pain patients. Although the Slick criteria were not developed specifically for use with a pain population, the fact that some pain patients malinger cognitive disability allows for the application of these criteria. Moreover, the Slick system represents a model from which to develop a more comprehensive system to diagnose malingering in pain.
Application and Evaluation of High-Resolution WRF-CMAQ with Simple Urban Parameterization

The 2-way coupled WRF-CMAQ meteorology and air quality modeling system is evaluated for high-resolution applications by comparing to a regional air quality field study (DISCOVER-AQ). The model was modified to better account for the effects of urban environments. High-resolution spatial data for fractions of impervious surfaces and tree canopy from the National Land-Cover Database (NLCD) were processed for each grid and used to scale ground heat capacity and to constrain vegetation coverage and characteristics. These simple algorithms along with modified albedo and roughness length in urban areas result in improved simulation of urban heat island and urban boundary layers. The reduced nocturnal stability and enhanced vertical mixing lead to reduced temperature and humidity biases and reduced under-predictions of ozone concentrations in urban areas.
Abstract 295: Cardiac-Specific Gene Leucine-Rich Repeat Containing 10 (Lrrc10) is required for proper Cardiac Contractility and Responses to Biomechanical Stress

The molecular genetic basis for early onset dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is largely unknown. We have identified that Lrrc10 is a cardiac-specific gene regulated by Nkx2.5 and GATA4. Lrrc10-null (Lrrc10-/-) mice exhibit prenatal systolic dysfunction followed by early onset DCM after birth. However, mechanistic roles for LRRC10 in the regulation of cardiac pathophysiology are unknown. We hypothesize that LRRC10 expression is critical for myocyte contractility and proper responses to pressure overload. Various mouse models with pathological cardiac hypertrophy showed decreased levels of Lrrc10. To test roles of LRRC10 in response to biomechanical stress, transverse aortic constriction (TAC) was performed. Lrrc10-/- mice showed significant increases in left ventricular inner diameter dimensions and drastically reduced % fractional shortening in response to 4 weeks of TAC (13%) after 4 weeks, while no significant changes occurred in WT after TAC (26% F.S.). These data indicate that pressure overload greatly exacerbates systolic dysfunction in Lrrc10-/- vs WT hearts. Next, the role of LRRC10 in cardiac excitation contraction coupling was investigated. Myocyte contractility and calcium transients were studied using the video-edge detection system and fura 2-AM loading at basal levels and following perfusion with Isoproterenol (ISO, 10 nM) at 0.5 - 2 Hz pacing. Cell shortening was significantly reduced following perfusion with ISO in Lrrc10-/- myocytes (55% and 49% at 1 and 2 Hz, respectively) vs WT. Calcium transient analysis showed that there were no differences in peak amplitudes of [Ca2+]i between Lrrc10-/- and WT myocytes at baseline or with ISO treatment. Whole-cell voltage clamp experiments demonstrated a significant reduction in the L-type Ca2+ current (ICa,L) density in Lrrc10-/- myocytes (-2.5 ± 0.2 pA/pF) compared to WT myocytes (-6 ± 0.6 pA/pF). The inactivation of the ICa,L in Lrrc10-/- myocytes was significantly delayed. Further, co-immunoprecipitation showed that LRRC10 directly associated with Cav1.2 subunit of LTCC, which correlates well with the localization of LRRC10 to dyadic regions in adult cardiomyocytes by TEM. Therefore, LRRC10 is a novel DCM candidate gene essential for normal myocyte contractility via regulating ICa,L.
Laminin and Fibronectin Modulate Inner Ear Spiral Ganglion Neurite Outgrowth in an In Vitro Alternate Choice Assay

Extracellular matrix (ECM) mole- cules have been shown to function as cues for neurite guidance in various populations of neurons. Here we show that laminin (LN) and fibronectin (FN) presented in stripe micro-patterns can provide guidance cues to neonatal (P5) inner ear spiral ganglion (SG) neurites. The response to both ECM molecules was dose-depend- ent. In a LN versus poly-L-lysine (PLL) assay, neurites were more often observed on PLL at low coating con- centrations (5 and 10 lg/mL), while they were more often on LN at a high concentration (80 lg/mL). In a FN versus PLL assay, neurites were more often on PLL than on FN stripes at high coating concentrations (40 and 80 lg/mL). In a direct competition between LN and FN, neurites were observed on LN significantly more often than on FN at both 10 and 40 lg/mL. The data suggest a preference by SG neurites for LN at high con- centrations, as well as avoidance of both LN at low and FN at high concentrations. The results also support a potential model for neurite guidance in the developing inner ear in vivo. LN, in the SG and osseus spiral lamina may promote SG dendrite growth toward the organ of Corti. Within the organ of Corti, lower concentrations of LN may slow neurite growth, with FN beneath each row of hair cells providing a stop or avoidance signal. This could allow growth cone filopodia increased time to sample their cellular targets, or direct the fibers upward toward the hair cells. ' 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop
A comparison of two mortality risk scores for very low birthweight infants: clinical risk index for babies and Berlin score.

Objective. To compare the performance of two mortality risk scores for very low birthweight (VLBW) infants.
Letter from the United States: Auditing to Make a Difference

The idea of undertaking crime and disorder audits is by no means new. Unfortunately, actually undertaking such audits has been a relatively rare event, particularly in the United States. This is somewhat surprising for a variety of reasons. First, over the past three decades there has been a growing recognition that official agents of social control are not capable of dealing with crime on their own. Second, there has been an increased recognition that the police are called on to deal with a wider range of issues besides simply law enforcement. Third, a great deal of attention has been given to the ideas of problem-oriented and community-oriented policing, both of which suggest a wider role for auditing community issues and problems.
In-Situ TEM Phase Formation in Cold Rolled Aluminum-Nickel Multilayers

Multilayer samples of Nickel and Aluminum with an overall composition of Al-20Ni were prepared by cold rolling of elemental foils. The sample microstructures and phases were characterized by XRD, SEM and TEM/SAED, and the reactive phase formation was then examined by DSC measurements. XRD, SEM and TEM measurements show that the rolling procedure results in a decrease of the Al and Ni layer thicknesses (down to 100 nm in average) and a decrease of the grain size (down to less than 50 nm). No phase formation is observed during the cold rolling procedure. In isochronal DSC scans of the Al-Ni multilayers, the formation of the Al3Ni phase was found to be a two step reaction process due to 2-dimensional nucleation and lateral growth and a 3-dimensional phase thickening. While XRD measurements showed Al3Ni as the only phase that forms, more detailed TEM investigations of the samples after DSC treatment also showed a small amount of an amorphous Al-Ni phase, formed by a thermally activated solid state amorphization reaction (SSAR). In-situ TEM heating of the amorphous areas under the electron beam in the microscope yielded the crystallization of the amorphous phase to a B2 structure and a growth of the B2 grains up to 100 nm in size.
Effect of pentagastrin on rabbit stomach and small intestinal protein synthesis in vitro.

In anin vitro organ culture system, we studied the effects of pentagastrin on rabbit fundic mucosa and small intestinal protein synthesis. The incorporation of [14C]leucine into protein was measured after 24 hr of incubation at 37°C in a 95% oxygen-5% CO2 atmosphere. Biopsies were taken from the stomach, duodenum, jejunum, and ileum of rabbits fasted for 64 hr. Pentagastrin (0.5 μg/ml) significantly increased protein synthesis in stomach explants at the 24-hr period but did not significantly increase protein synthesis in the duodenum, jejunum, or ileum explants. The results of thesein vitro experiments may indicate that pentagastrin is not trophic for rabbit small intestine or, in contrast to its direct effect on the fundic mucosa, pentagastrin acts indirectly in the previously notedin vivo stimulation of intestinal protein synthesis.
Liquid crystallinity in collagen solutions and magnetic orientation of collagen fibrils

Studies of the optical birefringence of solutions of acid-soluble collagen from rat-tail tendon at 22°C in the pH range 1.0–6.0 show that collagen exhibits an isotropic to mesophase transition only between pH 2.4 and 3.0 at 10% weight concentration. Such liquid crystalline order is probably essential for the orientation of collagen in a magnetic field. When solutions of neutral salt-soluble collagen were precipitated at pH 7.0 by warming to 37°C (“heat gelling”) in a magnetic field of ca. 20 kG, the resulting fibrils wee oriented perpendicular to the direction of the field. Heat gelling is shown to be a useful technique for maintaining the orientation induced in precursor solutions even after the sample is removed from the magnetic field.
Bile and serum immunoglobulin levels during primary and secondary infections with Eimeria tenella in chickens.

Abstract Using a radial immunodiffusion assay, total bile and serum IgG, IgM and IgA were measured following primary and secondary exposures to Eimeria tenella. Neither IgG nor IgM could be detected consistently in bile. Biliary IgA peaked at Days 6 and 10 following a primary infection of either 5000 or 10 000 oocysts and remained elevated following a subsequent 10 000-oocyst challenge at Day 10. Serum IgG and IgM levels were not influenced by parasitism and measurable c concentrations of serum IgA were not detected.
Stepwise Self-Assembly of DNA Tile Lattices Using dsDNA Bridges

The simple helical motif of double-strand DNA (dsDNA) has typically been judged to be uninteresting for assembly in DNA-based nanotechnology applications. In this letter, we demonstrate construction of superstructures consisting of heterogeneous DNA motifs using dsDNA in conjunction with more complex, cross-tile building blocks. Incorporation of dsDNA bridges in stepwise assembly processes can be used for controlling length and directionality of superstructures and is analogous to the “reprogramming” of sticky-ends displayed on the DNA tiles. Two distinct self-assembled DNA lattices, fixed-size nanoarrays, and extended 2D crystals of nanotracks with nanobridges, are constructed and visualized by high-resolution, liquid-phase atomic force microscopy.
Kinetic model of biomass gasification

Abstract A kinetic model for biomass gasification is developed based on the mechanism of surface reactions. The apparent rate constants are computed by minimizing the differences between experimental data and theoretical results for different residence times and different temperatures. The kinetic model is validated by comparing experimental data with the theoretical results for different equivalence ratios; the simulations agree well with the experimental data. Simulations modeling the influence of char particle size on the time required to achieve 90% carbon conversion agree with the results of tests performed by other investigators. Simulations are performed to evaluate the effects of the following parameters on biomass gasification: (a) type of oxidant, (b) residence time, (c) char particle size, (d) temperature, (e) pressure, (f) equivalence ratio, and (g) moisture.
Reduction in immunity in chicken malaria following treatment with nitrogen mustard.

Previous experiments on infections with Plasmodium gallinaceum and P. lophurae by us and Simmons (1945)1 indicated that under some circumstances large doses of X-rays reduce immunity. These effects were interpreted as following from the destruction of lymphocytes which may decrease immunity by depleting an important mesenchymal reserve from which macrophages have been shown to be mobilized and possibly by destroying one source of antibodies. In view of the demonstrated
ABSOLUTE CALIBRATION OF A DOUBLE-CELL POLARIZED 3HE GAS TARGET

Abstract We introduce a new method for determining the polarization of the atoms in a polarized 3 He target. The new method makes use of special properties of the reaction 3 He(d,p) 4 He. We demonstrate that for protons produced by this reaction at θ =0°, the polarization observables T 20 and C z , z are related according to 2 T 20 +3C z,z =−2 . Using this result, we have made an absolute measurement of the target polarization in the Wisconsin double-cell polarized 3 He target. The calibration was carried out by observing the 3 He(d,p) 4 He reaction with vector- and tensor-polarized deuterons of known polarization. The analyzing power T 20 (0°) at energy E d =2.1 MeV was first measured with the result T 20 (0°)=−0.530±0.012. The corresponding spin correlation coefficient is C z , z (0°)=−0.417±0.006. The target polarization, P t , was then determined by measuring the 0° proton asymmetry with vector-polarized deuterons. During the measurement, the relative target polarization was monitored by measuring the circular polarization P ⊙ of the 668 nm emission light from the optical pumping cell. From the measured target polarization we obtain a calibration constant K = P t / P ⊙ =11.57±0.43. This result is in good agreement with the calibrations based on other techniques.
Heterologous Desensitization Mediated by G Protein-specific Binding to Caveolin

We examined the notion that sequestration of G protein subunits by binding to caveolin impedes G protein reassociation and leads to transient, G protein-specific desensitization of response in dispersed smooth muscle cells. Cholecystokinin octapeptide (CCK-8) and substance P (SP) were used to activate Gq/11, cyclopentyl adenosine (CPA) was used to activate Gi3, and acetylcholine (ACh) was used to activate both Gq/11 and Gi3 via m3 and m2 receptors, respectively. CCK-8 and SP increased only Gαq/11, and CPA increased only Gαi3 in caveolin immunoprecipitates; caveolin and other G proteins were not increased. ACh increased both Gαq/11 and Gαi3 in a time- and concentration-dependent fashion: only Gαq/11was increased in the presence of an m2 antagonist, and only Gαi3 was increased in the presence of an m3 antagonist. To determine whether transient G protein binding to caveolin affected subsequent responses mediated by the same G protein, PLC-β activity was measured in cells stimulated sequentially with two different agonists that activate either the same or a different G protein. After treatment of the cells with ACh and an m2 antagonist, the phospholipase C-β (PLC-β) response to CCK-8 and SP, but not CPA, was decreased; conversely, after treatment of the cells with ACh and an m3 antagonist, the PLC-β response to CPA, but not CCK-8 or SP, was decreased. Similarly, after treatment with CCK-8 or SP, the PLC-β response mediated by Gq/11 only was decreased, whereas after treatment with CPA, the PLC-β response mediated by Gi3only was decreased. A caveolin-binding Gαq/11 fragment blocked the binding of activated Gαq/11 but not Gαi3 to caveolin-3 and prevented desensitization of the PLC-β response mediated only by other Gq/11-coupled receptors. A caveolin-binding Gαi3 fragment had the reverse effect. Thus, transient binding of receptor-activated G protein subunits to caveolin impedes reassociation of the heterotrimeric species and leads to desensitization of response mediated by other receptors coupled to the same G protein.
Covalent binding of halogenated volatile solvents to subcellular macromolecules in hepatocytes.

Abstract Rat liver hepatocytes were used to bioactivate the aliphatic halides-carbon tetrachloride, trichloroethylene, and methylene chloride. Optimum bioactivation occured under a nitrogen atmosphere for carbon tetrachloride and under an oxygen atmosphere for trichloroethylene and methylene chloride. All were found to alkylate lipid and protein, while only carbon tetrachloride and trichloroethylene alkylated DNA and RNA.
Prospective Association of Intimate Partner Violence with Receipt of Clinical Preventive Services in Women of Reproductive Age

Abstract Background Women who experience intimate partner violence (IPV) have a greater risk for adverse health outcomes, suggesting the importance of preventive services in this group. Little prior research has explored how IPV exposure impacts receipt of relevant preventive services. We assess the prospective association of IPV exposure with receiving specific preventive services. Methods Women in the Central Pennsylvania Women's Health Study's longitudinal cohort study (conducted 2004–2007; n = 1,420) identified past-year exposure to IPV at baseline and receipt of IPV-relevant preventive services (counseling for safety and violence concerns, tests for sexually transmitted infections [STIs], counseling for STIs, Pap testing, counseling for smoking/tobacco use, alcohol/drug use, and birth control) at 2-year follow-up. Multiple logistic regression analysis assessed the impact of IPV on service receipt, controlling for relevant covariates. Findings Women exposed to IPV had greater odds of receiving safety and violence counseling (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 2.40; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.25–4.61), and tests for STIs (AOR, 2.46; 95% CI, 1.41–4.28) compared with women who had not been exposed to IPV. Independent of other predictors, including IPV, women who saw an obstetrician-gynecologist were more likely to receive Pap tests, STI/HIV testing and counseling, and birth control counseling, compared with women who had not seen an obstetrician-gynecologist. Conclusion Overall rates of preventive service receipt for all women in the sample were low. Women exposed to IPV were more likely to receive safety and violence counseling and STI testing, and seeing an obstetrician-gynecologist increased the odds of receiving several preventive services.
Single genome amplification and standard bulk PCR yield HIV-1 envelope products with similar genotypic and phenotypic characteristics

Recent studies suggest that single genome amplification (SGA) as compared to standard bulk PCR and virus stocks from 293T transfection versus short term passage in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) yield a less biased representation of HIV-1 envelope characteristics. In 9 different subjects, genetic diversity, divergence, and population structure were not significantly different among SGA or bulk PCR amplified envelope V1-V3 segments. In these subjects, 293T transfection derived virus stocks with SGA or bulk PCR amplified envelopes have similar infectivity, replication kinetics, co-receptor usage, and neutralization susceptibility. While PBMC passage as compared to the 293T derived virus stocks had similar co-receptor usage, PBMC viruses were less neutralization susceptible to some specific antibodies. Our results suggest that the method of envelope sequence amplification, either SGA or bulk PCR, does not have a significant impact on the genotypic and phenotypic properties of the virus envelope quasispecies.