cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Organic acids reduce aluminum toxicity in maize root membranes

Application of 10–50 μM Al ions to a plasma membrane-enriched microsomal fraction, isolated from roots of maize (Zea mays L.), resulted in decreased Mg2-ATPase activity. This was probably caused by changes in membrane structure as detected by the use of spin probes. Both enzymatic activity and membrane structure could in part be protected from Al injury when organic acids, similar to those found in maize root tissue, were administered prior to the metal. When stressed by application of Al ions, the Al-tolerant maize hybrid, W64, maintained higher concentrations of organic acids, especially malic and trans-aconitic, than the Al-sensitive maize hybrid, A632. We hypothesize that citric and malic acid, because of their high stability constants with Al and/or the acid's concentration reduce Al toxicity in maize root tissue, especially in the Al-tolerant line.
Influence on morbidity and mortality of neoadjuvant radiation and chemotherapy among cranial malignancy patients in the postoperative setting.

Abstract We sought to assess the impact of neoadjuvant therapy on 30 day mortality and morbidity using data from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP). Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are both often indicated for treatment of cranial or systemic malignancy but can have significant adverse effects in the postsurgical setting. Data from 2006 to 2012 were obtained from the national ACS-NSQIP database. A total of 1044 patients were identified who obtained surgery for removal of metastatic brain tumors, of whom 127 received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and 65 neoadjuvant radiotherapy. Our primary outcome was 30 day mortality and secondary outcomes were 30 day surgical and medical morbidities. We selected previously reported preoperative variables to build a univariate and a multivariate model to determine preoperative characteristics most associated with neurosurgical mortality and morbidity. Our study found that neoadjuvant chemotherapy was associated with a 2.4-fold increase in the risk of 30 day mortality compared to the patient cohort who did not receive chemotherapy (p = 0.023). Interestingly, there was no statistically significant increase in overall 30 day surgical or medical morbidity for the chemotherapy group. Neoadjuvant radiotherapy was not associated with an increase in 30 day morbidity or mortality. The significant increase in mortality associated with chemotherapy warrants further investigation, particularly to determine how to best personalize neoadjuvant chemotherapy treatment options to improve surgical outcomes. Neoadjuvant radiotherapy may be safer in terms of short-term postoperative morbidity and mortality.
Alterations in molecular chaperones and eIF2α during lung endothelial cell apoptosis

We have previously demonstrated that inhibition of CAAX carboxyl methylation with AGGC caused redistribution and condensation of the ER molecular chaperones, glucose-regulated protein (GRP)-94 and calnexin; an effect that was attenuated by overexpression of dominant active RhoA. We have also shown that AGGC decreased GRP94 protein level; an effect that was dependent on caspase activity. In the present study, we tested the effects of inhibition of posttranslational processing of CAAX proteins on localization and protein levels of molecular chaperones and phosphorylation and protein level of eIF2α. We found that both AGGC, which inhibits CAAX carboxyl methylation, and simvastatin, which inhibits CAAX geranylgeranylation, caused relocalization of GRP94, calnexin, and calreticulin, effects that were not seen during endothelial apoptosis induced by TNF-α or ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. These results suggest that posttranslational processing of CAAX proteins is important in maintaining localization of molecular chaperones normally found in the ER. We also noted that AGGC, but not simvastatin, TNF-α, or UV irradiation, decreased protein levels of most molecular chaperones. Increased eIF2α phosphorylation was observed in the early stages of apoptosis, which was independent of the cause of apoptosis. These results suggest that eIF2α phosphorylation is a common early response to apoptosis-inducing stimuli. Interestingly, eIF2α protein level was decreased in the late stages of apoptosis induced by AGGC, TNF-α, and UV irradiation: an effect that was prevented by caspase inhibition. Thus we speculate that caspase(s)-dependent proteolysis of molecular chaperones and eIF2α may be novel signaling pathways of apoptosis. We also speculate that increased eIF2α phosphorylation is a defensive response against endothelial cell apoptosis.
Nox4 NAD(P)H Oxidase Mediates Src-dependent Tyrosine Phosphorylation of PDK-1 in Response to Angiotensin II ROLE IN MESANGIAL CELL HYPERTROPHY AND FIBRONECTIN EXPRESSION

Activation of glomerular mesangial cells (MCs) by angiotensin II (Ang II) leads to hypertrophy and extracellular matrix accumulation. Here, we demonstrate that, in MCs, Ang II induces an increase in PDK-1 (3-phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase-1) kinase activity that required its phosphorylation on tyrosine 9 and 373/376. Introduction into the cells of PDK-1, mutated on these tyrosine residues or kinase-inactive, attenuates Ang II-induced hypertrophy and fibronectin accumulation. Ang II-mediated PDK-1 activation and tyrosine phosphorylation (total and on residues 9 and 373/376) are inhibited in cells transfected with small interfering RNA for Src, indicating that Src is upstream of PDK-1. In cells expressing oxidation-resistant Src mutant C487A, Ang II-induced hypertrophy and fibronectin expression are prevented, suggesting that the pathway is redox-sensitive. Ang II also up-regulates Nox4 protein, and siNox4 abrogates the Ang II-induced increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Small interfering RNA for Nox4 also inhibits Ang II-induced activation of Src and PDK-1 tyrosine phosphorylation (total and on residues 9 and 373/376), demonstrating that Nox4 functions upstream of Src and PDK-1. Importantly, inhibition of Nox4, Src, or PDK-1 prevents the stimulatory effect of Ang II on fibronectin accumulation and cell hypertrophy. This work provides the first evidence that Nox4-derived ROS are responsible for Ang II-induced PDK-1 tyrosine phosphorylation and activation through stimulation of Src. Importantly, this pathway contributes to Ang II-induced MC hypertrophy and fibronectin accumulation. These data shed light on molecular processes underlying the oxidative signaling cascade engaged by Ang II and identify potential targets for intervention to prevent renal hypertrophy and fibrosis.
A Markov Chain Model of Coalescence with Recombination

Abstract Trees that describe the ancestry of DNA sequences sampled from a population may differ between loci because of genetic recombination. We seek to understand the relationship between such trees for loci that are linked with non-zero recombination rate. We consider a coalescent process model with recombination, as described by Hudson (1983; 1990). For two loci and a sample size of two sequences, a detailed analysis of this process yields the joint distribution of the two trees (one at each locus). A number of interesting results follow from this analysis, including the distribution of the number of recombination events in the history of the sample. For the general case of m loci and samples of size n , we describe an algorithm for simulating the tree building process. Because analytic results are difficult to obtain in this case, we use simulation to study properties of trees at multiple linked loci such as total tree time and number of recombination events.
Sol−Gel Synthesis of Organized Matter

In this review, we describe four approaches to the materials synthesis of organized inorganic matter. These include the use of self-assembled organic templates (transcriptive synthesis), cooperative assemblies of templates and building blocks (synergistic synthesis), spatially restricted reaction fields (morphosynthesis), and combinations of these approaches (integrative synthesis) in the area of sol−gel chemistry. We illustrate these strategies, respectively, by describing recent work on the formation of silica-based organized materials, viz. the preparation of ordered silica macrostructures using bacterial templates, template-directed synthesis of ordered hybrid mesophases and organoclays, synthesis of microskeletal frameworks of silica and other metal oxides in compartmentalized liquids, and use of bacterial superstructures in the fabrication of hierarchical macrostructures of mesoscopically ordered silica.
Signal processing circuit for electrostatic emittance measurements

Abstract Several significant improvements are described for the signal processing circuit used with an electrostatic scanner that measures an ion beam's emittance and corresponding current within different brightness contours in phase space.
A 10-Hz terawatt class Ti:sapphire laser system: Development and applications

We developed a two-stage Ti:sapphire laser system to generate 16 mJ/80 fs laser pulses at a pulse repetition rate of 10 Hz. The key deriver for the present design is implementing a highly efficient symmetric confocal pre-amplifier and employing a simple, inexpensive synchronization scheme relying only on a commercial digital delay generator. We characterized the amplified pulses in spatial, spectral and temporal domains. The laser system was used to investigate various nonlinear optical processes, and to modify the optical properties of metal and semiconductor surfaces. We are currently building a third amplifier to boost the laser power to the multi-terawatt range.
Leukocyte-derived hepatic lipase increases HDL and decreases en face aortic atherosclerosis in LDLr-/-mice expressing CETP

In addition to hepatic expression, cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) and hepatic lipase (HL) are expressed by human macrophages. The combined actions of these proteins have profound effects on HDL structure and function. It is not known how these HDL changes influence atherosclerosis. To elucidate the role of leukocyte-derived HL on atherosclerosis in a background of CETP expression, we studied low density lipoprotein receptor-deficient mice expressing human CETP (CETPtgLDLr−/−) with a leukocyte-derived HL deficiency (HL−/− BM). HL−/− bone marrow (BM), CETPtgLDLr−/− mice were generated via bone marrow transplantation. Wild-type bone marrow was transplanted into CETPtgLDLr−/− mice to generate HL+/+ BM, CETPtgLDLr−/− controls. The chimeras were fed a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet for 14 weeks to promote atherosclerosis. In female HL−/− BM, CETPtgLDLr−/− mice plasma HDL-cholesterol concentration during high-fat feeding was decreased 27% when compared with HL+/+ BM, CETPtgLDLr−/− mice (P < 0.05), and this was associated with a 96% increase in en face aortic atherosclerosis (P < 0.05). In male CETPtgLDLr−/− mice, leukocyte-derived HL deficiency was associated with a 16% decrease in plasma HDL-cholesterol concentration and a 25% increase in aortic atherosclerosis. Thus, leukocyte-derived HL in CETPtgLDLr−/− mice has an atheroprotective role that may involve increased HDL levels.
Highly efficient balanced CMOS linear power amplifier with load immunity

A 1.95 GHz linear power amplifier (PA) in a standard 0.18 m CMOS process is presented. The PA achieves the load insensitivity characteristic up to 2.5:1 VSWR condition and dual-mode operation with a balanced topology. The area of the PA is 1.6 × 1 mm 2 . With a 3.4 V power supply, the PA provides 40.4 of peak power-added efficiency (PAE) and 35 of PAE at 26.4 dBm of linear output power.
Lifetime of dipole-bound CH3CN− ions: role of blackbody-radiation-induced photodetachment

Abstract The lifetime of dipole-bound CH 3 CN − ions formed in K( n p)/CH 3 CN collisions is measured using a Penning ion trap designed specifically for heavy ion storage. The data show that the decay of the trapped population is characterized by a single exponential that, when corrected for collision-induced loss, yields a mean ion lifetime τ∼85 μ s. It is argued that the most likely process governing this lifetime is photodetachment induced by background thermal 300 K black-body radiation.
SYNTHESIS OF BIS-OXA-PROSTAGLANDINS

Aus dem ungesattigten Dicarbonester (I) erhalt man mit Osmiumtetroxid das cis- Diol (II), das in die Cyclen (IIIa) und (IIIb) ubergefuhrt wird.
Background visibility and increment thresholds.

Increment thresholds for small test flashes measured on superimposed backgrounds sometimes differed depending on whether an observer was instructed to keep the background subjectively visible or (Troxler) faded. The magnitude and direction of the threshold change varied among observers. For some observers, the magnitude of the effect of such instructions also varied with background size, psychophysical method, and displacement of test from background. How the instructions and their presumed association with different phenomenological states affect thresholds is not known. However, these results show that the magnitude of effects and the shapes of psychophysically measured functions can be affected by the instructions followed by the observer, whether self-imposed or imposed by the experimenter.
Characterization of a common precursor to corticotropin and beta-lipotropin: cell-free synthesis of the precursor and identification of corticotropin peptides in the molecule

Abstract mRNA was isolated from cultures of AtT-20/D-16v tumor cells and translated in a mRNA-dependent reticulocyte cell-free system. The corticotropin (ACTH) product was purified by a double-antibody immunoprecipitation procedure using antisera specific for the alpha(1-24) sequence of ACTH. The product is shown by sodium dodecyl sulfate/gel electrophoresis and gel filtration on guanidine-HCl columns to be homogeneous with an apparent molecular weight (Mr) of 28,500. A product with the same molecular weight is synthesized when membrane-bound polysomes from D-16v cells are allowed to complete their nascent chains in a reticulocyte cell-free system. Mr 31,000 ACTH isolated from tumor cells has been separated into three proteins of different apparent Mr:29,000, 32,000, and 34,000. The cell-free product contains the same lysine-, methionine-, and phenylalanine-labeled tryptic peptides as the Mr 29,000 ACTH synthesized in the tumor cells. Tryptic peptide analysis also reveals the presence of the alpha(1-39) sequence in the Mr 28,500 cell-free product and suggests that there is only one copy of this sequence in the Mr 28,500 molecule.
Factors That Influence Continuing Motivation

AbstractThis study was conducted to examine the effects of teacher comments, type of task, student performance, and subject gender on continuing motivation. The 424 fifth- and sixth-grade students completed an initial task, received no comment, a performance-contingent positive, or encouraging comment on their papers, then chose between two activities as their second task. Return to the task that was similar to the initial one was the measure of continuing motivation. Analyses of experimental and questionnaire data revealed that students' performance on the initial task and their perceptions of their performance were most closely related to return to task. Comments did not have a significant main effect, though the combination of comments and an easier task appeared to be more effective in motivating girls to return to the same task. Results are discussed in terms of the relationship between continuing motivation and student perceptions of their own competence.
Laser-induced particle generation in carbon disulfide and carbonyl sulfide

Abstract Laser-induced clustering has been studied in carbon disulfide and carbonyl sulfide from 308 to 340 nm. The results support a single-photon excitation mechanism in carbon disulfide and two-photon dissociation in carbonyl sulfide.
Otolaryngologists may not be doing enough to diagnose pediatric eosinophilic esophagitis

Abstract Objective To systematically evaluate the diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis (EE). Methods A retrospective review of 657 patients seen at the EE center of a tertiary care children's hospital between 1994 and 2007 was performed. Charts were reviewed for the 144 patients who were also seen by the otolaryngology service. Results One hundred forty-four patients received 193 otolaryngology-related diagnoses. Eustachian tube dysfunction (27.5%) and sleep disordered breathing (24.9%) were the most common, followed by dysphagia (13.0%), rhinosinusitis/nasal congestion (9.3%) and airway stenosis (5.2%). Seventy-nine patients (54.9%) had a pre-existing diagnosis of EE at the time of their otolaryngology consultation. Twenty-one patients (14.6%) were referred to the gastroenterology service for evaluation for EE. Forty-four patients (30.5%) remained undiagnosed. Twenty-five of these patients presented with dysphagia, 16 of whom were not previously diagnosed with EE; only 4 of these 16 patients were referred for evaluation for EE. In one case, a child with moderate sized tonsils underwent adenotonsillectomy for dysphagia and failure to thrive; this patient was diagnosed with EE 1 month post-operatively. Conclusions Twenty percent of patients with EE may require care by an otolaryngologist for a myriad of complaints. Even experienced pediatric otolaryngologists may not recognize this condition. Otolaryngologists should consider EE in patients presenting with dysphagia. A careful gastroenterology review of symptoms may also allow otolaryngologists to identify EE in patients with allergy mediated nasal complaints, or laryngeal/airway disorders.
Decreased Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Protein Content in the Cotyledon of the Heat-Stressed, Growth Restricted Ovine Fetus • 262

Endothelial (typeIII) nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) contributes to the maintenance of low vascular resistance in the fetal-placental circulation, and has been localized to the placental vasculature and trophoblastic tissue. Little is known about eNOS expression in early placental development with regard to normal and growth restricted pregnancies. Exposure of the ovine pregnancy to heat stress (HS) beginning early in gestation results in a marked reduction of fetal and placental growth near term. Our objective was to evaluate cotyledon eNOS protein expression in this ovine model of placental insufficiency. Beginning at 35 days gestation (term=147 days), 4 ewes were exposed to heat stress (HS) in an environmental chamber, and 4 control ewes were housed in ambient conditions. Sheep were euthanized at 85-93 days gestation. Fetal and placentome weights were recorded. The placentomes were separated into caruncle and cotyledon components. Western blot analysis was performed with a monoclonal antibody against eNOS on crude homogenates of a whole cotyledon from each animal (25μg of total protein). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for eNOS was performed on paraffin sections. Histology on HE p<0.05). There were no differences between HS and control groups for gestational age (89±1.6 days vs. 90±2.0 days; p=0.8) nor for placentome weights (554.9±122gm vs. 288.8±61.1gm; p=0.09). HS cotyledons demonstrated a 2-fold decrease in eNOS protein content compared to controls (p<0.03). IHC localized eNOS to the vascular endothelium. Histologic evaluation of the HS cotyledons revealed a pattern of decreased fetal to maternal stromal tissue which is suggestive of accelerated placental maturation. Vessel diameter and number of fetal surface vessels were similar between groups (p=0.8). We conclude that HS exposure early in the ovine pregnancy results in a reduction of fetal growth and eNOS protein expression in the cotyledon. We speculate that developmental abnormalities in the fetoplacental vasulature results in reduced eNOS production.
Compensating for image placement errors for the HP 3X nm node

As the feature size is smaller, the overlay budget of lithography for the rigorous manufacturing control becomes so small. And, overlay accuracy has become more important due to small overlap margin and double patterning process. Recently, a scanner maker has developed several effective solutions to correct the errors of overlay in field. But, the error induced by photomask still remains, so the accuracy of photomask image placement is required below than several nm for the HP 3X nm memory device generation. But, current e-beam writers don't meet this specification. There are various sources of image placement errors. Many papers report their analysis of those errors, so we focus on e-beam charging effect and compensation. Especially, their compensating methods are too complex to apply to production. So, it is need a simple way to compensate to image placement errors effectively.
Pharmacological characterization of stress-induced hyperthermia in DBA/2 mice using metabotropic and ionotropic glutamate receptor ligands.

Accumulating evidence suggests that drugs acting on the glutamatergic system may represent promising novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of anxiety disorders. The stress-induced hyperthermia paradigm has been used widely to model some of the physiological symptoms associated with anxiety disorders and has produced results that are predictive of clinical efficacy. We have modified this paradigm to measure the autonomic consequences of stress induced by the fear of predation in mice. To evaluate the efficacy of several classes of metabotropic and ionotropic glutamate receptor ligands, as well as known anxiolytics and psychotropic comparators, in attenuating predatory-stress-induced hyperthermia. Male DBA/2 mice were implanted with radiotelemetric transmitters in the peritoneal cavity to measure stress-related increases in core body temperature, following placement in a novel cage containing soiled rat shavings. Clinically active compounds such as chlordiazepoxide (5–10 mg/kg), alprazolam (0.3–3 mg/kg), and buspirone (10–30 mg/kg) exhibited an anxiolytic profile. Assessment of glutamatergic agents indicated that the mGlu1 receptor antagonist LY456236 (10–30 mg/kg), mGlu5 receptor antagonist MPEP (10–30 mg/kg), mGlu2/3 receptor agonist LY354740 (3–10 mg/kg), mGlu2 receptor potentiator LY566332 (30 and 100 mg/kg), mGlu8 receptor agonist (S)-3,4-dicarboxyphenylglycine (30–60 mg/kg), competitive NMDA receptor antagonist LY235959 (1 mg/kg), AMPA receptor antagonist GYKI-52466 (10–20 mg/kg), and glycine transporter-1 (GlyT-1) inhibitor ALX-5407 (3–10 mg/kg) dose-dependently attenuated stress-induced hyperthermia. The AMPA receptor potentiator LY451646, iGlu5 kainate receptor antagonist LY382884, glycineB receptor partial agonist d-cycloserine, and GlyT-1 inhibitor ORG-24461 were ineffective in this model. Select metabotropic and ionotropic glutamate receptor ligands exhibited an anxiolytic profile, as measured by the attenuation of stress-induced hyperthermia, and may represent viable targets for the development of pharmacological treatments for anxiety-related disorders.
Hippocampal serotonin levels influence the expression of S100β detected by immunocytochemistry

Abstract The response of astrocytes to pharmacological alterations of the serotonin (5-HT) content of the dorsal area dentata was studied by immunocytochemistry for S100β. Stereological analysis revealed changes in the density of astrocytic elements in conditions of 5-HT depletion and elevated 5-HT levels. There was a direct relationship between the expression of S100β and the level of 5-HT in the hippocampal formation. Thus when 5-HT was reduced by PCPA treatment, S100β immunoreactivity was also reduced. The converse of these observations was obtained in cases where the 5-HT levels were increased by fluoxetine administration. These immunocytochemical data are consistant with previous reports of the response of astrocytes to 5-HT in vitro.
The Role of Interventional Radiology in Cerebrovascular Disease: A Review of Cerebrovascular Anatomy and Disease

Abstract Interventional radiology has long had a role in the diagnosis and treatment of cerebrovascular (CV) disease. Angiography is the gold standard for imaging of cerebral vasculature. Recently, there has been tremendous growth in the field of catheter-based intervention in the treatment of CV disease. The purpose of this series is to review CV anatomy, disease, diagnostic testing, and current percutaneous options available in the treatment of a wide variety of CV disorders. This article will concentrate on anatomy and disease.
The androgenic effect on the fine structure of the harderian gland in the male hamster

A sexual dimorphism of the hamster Harderian gland at the ultrastructural level has been reported. The effect of testosterone on the fine structure of the gland from castrated male golden hamsters is reported here. Harderian glands from the following three groups of animals were examined at regular intervals up to 60 days after castration: (1) castrated; (2) castratedsham-injected, receiving 0.1 ml sesame oil per day; (3) castrated-testosterone injected, receiving 2mg testosterone propionate in 0.1 ml sesame oil per day. In groups 1 and 2, clusters of cylindrical tubules, typical of the male gland, decreased in number and disappeared almost completely 2 weeks after castration. Membranous structures, typical of the female gland, prevailed in these two groups throughout the remaining period of experiment. On the other hand, these changes were prevented in the group of castrated animals maintained on testosterone propionate. It is concluded that castration modified the ultrastructure of the male hamster Harderian gland toward the female type and that daily administration of testosterone propionate prevented this change.
An analysis of entry into practice arguments.

This article describes the findings derived from a content analysis of arguments related to the entry-into-practice issue. Written and oral testimonies presented to the North Dakota Board of Nursing were examined within the framework of Lewin's change theory. An analysis of what was said and by whom, provided a heuristic classification of the substantive content of the arguments and the identification of argument profiles in terms of selected demographics.
Two-dimensional radiative heat-transfer calculations for nonequilibrium flows

The present study details the inclusion of radiative heat-transfer phenomena in the numerical simulation of reactive hypersonic and atmospheric re-entry flows. Truly two-dimensional algorithms are developed for the radiative source term in the governing equations, whereby the determination of the specific intensity field is obtained by means of a numerical integration over directions of propagation of radiation. The one-dimensional slab approximation is lifted, and the analysis presented allows the determination of the radiative characteristics of the entire flowfield, rather than being limited to the stagnation streamline, thereby providing an accurate assessment of two-dimensional relieving effects in the stagnation region. A few preliminary results are presented for the Mach 47 flow over a cylinder, including a comparison of the two-dimensional algorithm with the one-dimensional approximation and an emission-dominated case. The effects of improving the modeling of radiative heat transfer are demonstrated. 31 refs.
The labor boycott in New York City, 1880–1886

(1975). The labor boycott in New York City, 1880–1886. Labor History: Vol. 16, No. 2, pp. 184-229.
Aging and diabetes mellitus as risk factors for vascular disease

During this century, cardiovascular diseases have become the major cause of death for elderly and diabetic patients. Although risk factors for vascular diseases have been identified, the interactions of aging and diabetes on the prevalence and incidence of vascular disease have not been systematically studied. A spectrum of such interactions appears to exist. Future research efforts are likely to permit accurate weighting of the influence that diabetes and aging have on vascular disease.
A detector telescope’s pitch angle sampling of magnetospheric particles

A geometrical method developed for a particle detector can be extended for application to the determination of the pitch angle sampling capability of the particle telescope of any orientation and for the parent satellite of any orbital orientation. A unit vector tangent to a dipole geomagnetic field line has been calculated from the dipole magnetic field equations in the geomagnetic coordinate system. Rotation matrices have been used, step-by-step, to align the geomagnetic coordinate frame with the detector coordinate frame. The detector selected in this work has its axis tilted with the local zenith direction. The component of the unit vector in the detector coordinate system is found at an observation point characterized by longitude, latitude, and the geocentric radial distance. Pitch angles are measured with respect to the guiding field direction. The pitch angle sampling factor is used in the calculation of detector response functions to particles of different pitch angles. The sampling efficiency functions are useful to make an absolute comparison of magnetospheric particle fluxes measured by particle telescopes under different solar conditions pertaining to different epochs.
Jump-starting kinesin

When it is not actively transporting cargo, conventional Kinesin-1 is present in the cytoplasm in a folded conformation that cannot interact effectively with microtubules (MTs). Two important and largely unexplored aspects of kinesin regulation are how it is converted to an active species when bound to cargo and the related issue of how kinesin discriminates among its many potential cargo molecules. Blasius et al. (see p. 11 of this issue) report that either binding of the cargo linker c-Jun N-terminal kinase–interacting protein 1 (JIP1) to the light chains (LCs) or binding of fasciculation and elongation protein ζ1 (FEZ1) to the heavy chains (HCs) is insufficient for activation but that activation occurs when both are present simultaneously. A related paper by Cai et al. (see p. 51 of this issue) provides structural insight into the conformation of the folded state in the cell obtained by fluorescence resonance energy transfer analysis.
Reduction of myocardial reperfusion injury by aprotinin after regional ischemia and cardioplegic arrest.

Abstract Background Surgical coronary revascularization with cardiopulmonary bypass and cardioplegia has been associated with reperfusion injury. The serine protease inhibitor aprotinin has been suggested to reduce reperfusion injury, yet a clinically relevant study examining regional ischemia under conditions of cardiopulmonary bypass and cardioplegia has not been performed. Methods Pigs were subjected to 30 minutes of regional myocardial ischemia by distal left anterior descending coronary artery occlusion, followed by 60 minutes of cardiopulmonary bypass with 45 minutes of cardioplegic arrest and 90 minutes of post–cardiopulmonary bypass reperfusion. The treatment group (n = 6) was administered aprotinin systemically (40,000 kallikrein-inhibiting units [KIU]/kg intravenous loading dose, 40,000 KIU/kg pump prime, and 10,000 KIU · kg −1 · h −1 intravenous continuous infusion). Control animals (n = 6) received crystalloid solution. Global and regional myocardial functions were analyzed by the left ventricular+dP/dt and the percentage segment shortening, respectively. Left ventricular infarct size was measured by tetrazolium staining. Tissue myeloperoxidase activity was measured. Myocardial sections were immunohistochemically stained for nitrotyrosine. Coronary microvessel function was studied by videomicroscopy. Results Myocardial infarct size was decreased with aprotinin treatment (27.0% ± 3.5% vs 45.3% ± 3.0%, aprotinin vs control; P P P Conclusions Aprotinin reduces reperfusion injury after regional ischemia and cardioplegic arrest. Protease inhibition may represent a molecular strategy to prevent postoperative myocardial injury after surgical revascularization with cardiopulmonary bypass.
Why Does Exercise “Trigger” Adaptive Protective Responses in the Heart?

Numerous epidemiological studies suggest that individuals who exercise have decreased cardiac morbidity and mortality. Pre-clinical studies in animal models also find clear cardioprotective phenotypes in animals that exercise, specifically characterized by lower myocardial infarction and arrhythmia. Despite the clear benefits, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms that are responsible for exercise preconditioning are not fully understood. In particular, the adaptive signaling events that occur during exercise to "trigger" cardioprotection represent emerging paradigms. In this review, we discuss recent studies that have identified several different factors that appear to initiate exercise preconditioning. We summarize the evidence for and against specific cellular factors in triggering exercise adaptations and identify areas for future study.
Rigid Curves in Complete Intersection Calabi–Yau Threefolds

Working over the complex numbers, we study curves lying in a complete intersection K3 surface contained in a (nodal) complete intersection Calabi–Yau threefold. Under certain generality assumptions, we show that the linear system of curves in the surface is a connected componend of the the Hilbert scheme of the threefold. In the case of genus one, we deduce the existence of infinitesimally rigid embeddings of elliptic curves of arbitrary degree in the general complete intersection Calabi–Yau threefold.
Full-load-range-ZVS hybrid DC-DC converter with two full-bridges for high-power battery charging

A novel soft switching DC-DC power converter is proposed that is ideal for high-power battery charging applications. Its main advantages are zero-switching under all operating conditions without significant conduction loss penalty, and significantly lower filter requirement compared to conventional power converters. The application of the proposed converter for high-power battery charging is discussed along with simulation and experimental results.
Hollow spherical gold nanoparticle superstructures with tunable diameters and visible to near-infrared extinction

Hollow spherical gold nanoparticle superstructures with tunable diameters (∼40 nm, ∼70 nm and ∼150 nm) and visible to near-infrared surface plasmon resonances (545 nm, 670 nm, and 740 nm) are prepared using a single peptide conjugate, C6-AA-PEPAu, as the structure-directing agent. Computational models are developed to understand their optical properties.
Towards self-sterilizing medical devices : controlling infection

Medical devices are an important component of modern medicine. In many cases, medical devices are used to improve the ‘quality of life’ for the patient, and their use is increasing dramatically. At the same time, the emergence of multi-drug-resistant bacteria, or ‘super-bugs’, is a global crisis. At least in part, biomedical devices proliferate the growth of resistant bacteria. This has spurred new research aimed at the development of medical devices that prevent or control bacterial colonization, and this perspective discusses the current efforts in this area. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
An adaptive method with rigorous error control for the Hamilton-Jacobi equations. Part II: The two-dimensional steady-state case

In this paper, we devise and study an adaptive method for finding approximations to the viscosity solution of Hamilton-Jacobi equations. The method, which is an extension to two space dimensions of a similar method previously proposed for one space dimension, is studied in the framework of steady-state Hamilton-Jacobi equations with periodic boundary conditions. It seeks numerical approximations whose L^~-distance to the viscosity solution is no bigger than a prescribed tolerance. A thorough numerical study is carried out which shows that a strict error control is achieved and that the method exhibits an optimal computational complexity which does not depend on the value of the tolerance or on the type of Hamiltonian.
Training programme for the dissemination of climatological and meteorological applications using GIS technology

Abstract. IBIMET-CNR is involved in making different research projects and in managing operational programmes on national and international level and has acquired a relevant training competence to sustain partner countries and improve their methodological and operational skills by using innovative tools, such as Geographical Information Systems focused on the development of meteorological and climatological applications. Training activities are mainly addressed to National Meteorological and Hydrological Services of Partner-Countries and/or to other Specialized Centers in the frame of Cooperation Programmes promoted by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs mainly in favour of the Less Developing Countries (LDC) of World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) Regional Association I (Africa). The Institute, as a branch of the WMO-Regional Meteorological Training Centre for Region VI (Europe), organizes also international training courses of high-level in Meteorology, Climatology and Remote Sensing applied to environment and agriculture fields. Moreover, considering the increasing evolution of the GIS functions for meteorological information users, IBIMET has promoted in 2005 the EU COST Action 719 Summer School on "GIS applications in meteorology and climatology''. The paper offers an overview of the main institute training programmes organised to share the results of research activities and operational projects, through the exploitation of innovative technologies and tools like GIS.
The Effects of Deer Exclosures on Voles and Shrews in Two Forest Habitats

Abstract - White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) have overbrowsed much of the hemlock-mixed northern hardwood forest in northeastern Pennsylvania. I investigated the possible deleterious effect of this overbrowsing on 4 ground-cover-dependent small-mammal species through the use of deer exclosures. From May through September 1996–2005,4 * 10 Sherman live-trap grids were placed in two 0.65-ha exclosures and their adjacent control sites in forest heavily browsed by deer. One exclosure was located beneath a primarily oak-maple canopy and the other exclosure under Tsuga canadensis (Eastern Hemlock). More Myodes gapperi (Southern Red-backed Vole) were captured in the oak-maple grids than in the hemlock grids and more M. gapperi were taken in the oak-maple exclosure than in the neighboring control. Microtus pinetorum (Woodland Vole) first appeared at the grids six years after the exclosure construction, and a large majority were taken in the oak-maple exclosure. Of Blarina brevicauda (Northern Short-tailed...
Polymer-filled honeycombs to achieve a structural material with appreciable damping

In this study, lossy polymeric infills are introduced into metallic honeycombs with the goal that the resulting filled honeycombs simultaneously have high stiffness and appreciable loss factor. A finite element analysis is conducted with the honeycomb walls modeled with beam elements and the polymeric infill modeled with shell elements. Soft (10 MPa) and stiffer (100 MPa) fillers are used, and the filled honeycombs are oriented to deform along the x- and y-directions. The article presents a discussion on the cell geometries that yield the highest stiffness and loss factor, for loading in the two principle directions. When the honeycomb is loaded, the Poisson’s contraction of the cell walls in the transverse direction deforms and increases the strain energy in the polymer, to levels significantly greater than that in an isotropic polymer sheet subject to the same global strain. From the results in the study, it was predicted that filled aluminum honeycombs can achieve a Young’s modulus in the range of 2–7 ...
Siliciclastic grain breakage and displacement due to carbonate crystal growth: an example from the Lueders Formation (Permian) of north-central Texas, U.S.A.

The Lueders Formation (mid-Permian) in Baylor County, Texas, is an intercalated suite of fluvial siliciclastic, shallow marine siliciclastic, and shallow marine carbonate strata. There are at least two generations of carbonate cements (probably originally composed of calcite) in the fluvial sandstones where fractured grains are observed. These cements represent the initial stages of caliche formation. Cementation is envisioned as a two step process. In the first step, calcite cements form from supersaturated fluids in a freshwater, vadose environment as a meniscus cement at grain contacts. Areas of cement formation are restricted to these sites because fluid distribution is restricted to these sites. Stresses generated by the growth of cements at grain contacts are transmitted through and concentrated at quartz/quartz grain point-contacts until the stress is sufficient to fracture quartz grains, even though the ultimate strength of calcite is less than that of quartz, per unit area. This process occurs too rapidly to be accommodated by pressure solution. In the second phase of cementation, cement nucleation is no longer restricted by vadose conditions. In this phase, calcite growth can no longer result in quartz grain breakage; rather, the quartz grains are dispersed in poikilotopic calcite cement.
Predictive indicators of coronary artery complications in Kawasaki disease

increased the risk of coronary artery lesions 6-, 5-, and 3.5-fold, respectively. Furthermore, additional IVIG courses and higher CRP level increased the risk of coronary artery lesions 4-fold and 2-3-fold, respectively. Conclusion : The following 3 factors were responsible for increased risk of coronary artery lesions in children with Kawasaki disease: fever duration and days of fever after and before IVIG treatment. To identifythe predictive indicators of coronary complications, it is necessary to further elucidate the relationship between well-known forecasting factors. (Korean J Pediatr 2009;52:1161-1166)
The influence of diabetes mellitus on acute and late clinical outcomes following coronary stent implantation

Abstract Objectives. We compared the clinical outcomes following coronary stent implantation in insulin-treated diabetes mellitus (IDDM), non-IDDM patients, and nondiabetic patients. Background. Diabetic patients have increased restenosis and late morbidity following balloon angioplasty. The impact of diabetes mellitus (DM), especially IDDM, on in-stent restenosis is not known. Methods. We studied 954 consecutive patients with native coronary artery lesions treated with elective Palmaz-Schatz stents implantation using conventional coronary angiographic and intravascular ultrasound methodology. Procedural success, major in-hospital complications, and 1-year clinical outcome were compared according to the diabetic status. Results. In-hospital mortality was 2% in IDDM, significantly higher (p 0.1). During follow-up, target lesion revascularization (TLR) was 28% in IDDM, significantly higher (p Conclusions. In a large consecutive series of patients treated by elective stent implantation, IDDM patients were at higher risk for in-hospital mortality and subsequent TLR and, as a result, had a significantly lower cardiac event–free survival rate. On the other hand, acute and long-term procedural outcome was found to be similar for non-IDDM compared with nondiabetic patients.
Temperature alters food web body-size structure.

The increased temperature associated with climate change may have important effects on body size and predator–prey interactions. The consequences of these effects for food web structure are unclear because the relationships between temperature and aspects of food web structure such as predator–prey body-size relationships are unknown. Here, we use the largest reported dataset for marine predator–prey interactions to assess how temperature affects predator–prey body-size relationships among different habitats ranging from the tropics to the poles. We found that prey size selection depends on predator body size, temperature and the interaction between the two. Our results indicate that (i) predator–prey body-size ratios decrease with predator size at below-average temperatures and increase with predator size at above-average temperatures, and (ii) that the effect of temperature on predator–prey body-size structure will be stronger at small and large body sizes and relatively weak at intermediate sizes. This systematic interaction may help to simplify forecasting the potentially complex consequences of warming on interaction strengths and food web stability.
Photocleavage control of nucleated DNA nanosystems--the influence of surface strand sterics.

We use sterically inaccessible ‘seed’ strands, released from a surface into solution by photocleavage to initiate a nucleated DNA polymerization reaction. We demonstrate control of the quantity of ‘seed’ release and that hairpin steric protection of the ‘seed’ leads to less ‘leaky’ surfaces. This polymerization is a model system for surface-photocleavage initiation of sub-stoichiometric reaction cascades; these cascades should find use as a component of labs-on-chips capable of bioanalytical and DNA-computing tasks.
Low back pain status affects pelvis-trunk coordination and variability during walking and running

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to compare pelvis–trunk coordination and coordination variability over a range of walking and running speeds between three groups of runners; runners with low to moderate low back pain; runners who had recovered from a single bout of acute low back pain; and runners who had never experienced any symptoms of low back pain. Methods Pelvis and trunk kinematic data were collected as speed was systematically increased on a treadmill. Coordination between pelvis and trunk in all three planes of motion was measured using continuous relative phase, and coordination variability was defined as the standard deviation of this measure. Findings Oswestry Disability Index indicated the low back pain group was high functioning (mean 7.9% out of 100%). During walking, frontal plane coordination was more in-phase for the low back pain group compared to controls ( P = 0.029), with the resolved group showing an intermediate coordination pattern ( P = 0.064). During running, both low back pain ( P = 0.021) and resolved ( P = 0.025) groups showed more in-phase coordination in the transverse plane than the control group. The low back pain group also showed reduced transverse plane coordination variability compared to controls ( P = 0.022). Interpretation Coordination and coordination variability results showed a continuum of responses between our three groups. Taken together, the data lend insight into increased injury risk and performance deficits associated with even one bout of low back pain, and suggest that clinicians need to look beyond the resolution of pain when prescribing rehabilitation for low back pain.