cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reconstitution of CD39 in liposomes amplifies nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase activity and restores thromboregulatory properties.

Background CD39 (nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase [NTPDase-1]) expressed on the luminal surface of endothelial cells rapidly metabolizes extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine diphosphate (ADP) to adenosine monophosphate (AMP), and abrogates platelet reactivity. Optimization of CD39 enzymatic activity appears dependent upon the expression of both transmembrane domains within plasma membranes. Thus, motivation exists to examine therapeutic antiplatelet formulations that consist of liposomal CD39. Methods Full-length human CD39 was produced by using a yeast expression system, purified, and reconstituted within lipid vesicles. The catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km) of CD39-mediated phosphohydrolysis of ADP and ATP was determined both for detergent-solubilized and protein-reconstituted CD39 within lipid membranes. The capacity of CD39-containing lipid vesicles to inhibit platelet activation induced by ADP, collagen, or thrombin was determined in vitro by platelet aggregometry. A murine model of thromboplastin-induced thromboembolism was used to determine the effectiveness of intravenous liposomal CD39 in limiting platelet consumption and mortality. Results Reconstitution of human CD39 in lipid vesicles was associated with a decrease in Km of nearly an order of magnitude over the detergent-solubilized form. There was a concomitant increase in both ADPase and ATPase catalytic efficiencies (kcat/Km ADPase: sol CD39: 2.7 × 10 6 vs liposomal CD39: 1.4 × 10 7 min/ M; kcat/Km ATPase: sol CD39: 7.2 × 10 6 vs liposomal CD39: 2.0 ×10 7 min/M). Furthermore, CD39 lipid vesicles effectively inhibited platelet aggregation when activated by ADP, collagen, or thrombin, and also promoted platelet disaggregation (60.4% ± 6.1%). Treatment with CD39 lipid vesicles preserved platelet counts after thromboplastin injection (pretreatment, 906.8 ± 42.9 platelets/μm 3 ; empty vesicles, 278.6 ± 34.8 platelets/μm 3 ; CD39 vesicles, 563.6 ± 42.2 platelets/μm 3 ; n=10 mice/test group; P P ≤ .05; n=12 mice/experimental test group, n=15 mice/control test group). Conclusions Incorporation of solubilized CD39 into a lipid bilayer restores enzyme activity and optimizes thromboregulatory potential. Treatment with CD39 in liposomal formulations decreased mortality in a murine model of thromboplastin-induced thromboembolism by limiting intravascular platelet aggregation and thrombosis.
Influence of a low chloride practical diet on acid-base balance and other factors of blood in young dairy calves.

Abstract Control (.5% chloride) or low-chloride (.038% chloride) practical diets and low-chloride (.00038% chloride) well water were fed to male Holstein calves for 7 wk. Substantial alterations in characteristics of blood associated with acid-base balance developed in those fed the low-chloride diet. Along with reduced potassium in plasma, concentrations of chloride in synovial fluid, saliva, and plasma also were reduced. Solids in plasma, blood pH, packed cell volume, carbon dioxide pressure (PCO 2 ) in blood, and bicarbonate were increased. Most of the changes in plasma occurred within 1 wk with little change thereafter, indicating an adaptation by the calves to the low-chloride diet. The adaptation by the low-chloride calves was primarily due to a tremendous reduction in urinary chloride excretion. Change in blood factors was insufficient to cause severe alkalosis in calves. The low-chloride diet had no significant effect on sodium metabolism as measured by sodium absorption, retention, or distribution in body fluids. Potassium in plasma and aqueous humor were reduced in calves fed the low-chloride diet, but potassium concentrations in other body fluid were not affected significantly.
Fluorescent nucleotides: Application in a fluorescence immune assay

Abstract A fluorescence immune assay designed to measure anti-nucleotide antibody activity is described based on the synthesis of a fluorescent nucleotide probe possessing a low fluorescence quantum yield when free in aqueous solution (neutral pH). The fluorophore, AmNS (1-naphthylamine-5-sulfonic acid), was covalently conjugated to various phosphate derivatives of nucleotides through carbodiimide activation to form the fluorescent probe. The quantum yield (Φ) of the fluorescent nucleotide in solution (neutral pH) was ~ 0.025 based on an excitation maximum of 320 nm and an emission maximum of 460 nm. Anti-nucleotide antibodies elicited in rabbits and mice served as standard immunological reagents in development of the fluorescence assay. Upon binding of an AmNS-nucleotide conjugate with homologous anti-nucleotide antibodies, the fluorescence quantum yield of the conjugate was significantly enhanced (12–35 x). Fluorescence enhancement was not obtained upon incubation of the fluorescent probe with normal Ig, non-immune rabbit sera and murine ascites fluid, or bovine and rabbit serum albumin. Nucleotide inhibition reactions were quantitatively measured in the fluorescence assay. Nucleotide binding results obtained with the fluorescence assay were correlated with a modified radioimmune Farr assay.
A simple method of accuracy enhancement for industrial manipulators

A robot calibration method which includes identification of kinematic parameters and error compensation is presented. The parameter identification process features an easy-to-perform measurement procedure using a low-cost, instrumented, articulated linkage, and with proper planning of the data collection process, the measurement of actual end effector positions can be performed automatically. The basis of the parameter identification approach is akin to that of closed-loop mechanism synthesis. For error compensation, a computation scheme based on the nominal model as opposed to the calibrated one is presented. The resulting algorithm, allowing the exploitation of the closed-form inverse kinematics solutions available for most industrial robots, is computationally efficient and therefore suited for on-line applications. Examples based on simulation studies, devised to include realistic operating conditions, are presented to demonstrate the feasibility of this method. The effects are also investigated of the number of measurements and of the sensor resolution on the overall quality of the identification.
Perspectives for regional earth system modeling

Abstract The recent development of regional climate models which can potentially produce long-term (multi-year to multi-decadal) simulations at high spatial resolution (5–50 km), opens a range of possibilities for interactive coupling with ecosystem, hydrology, ocean-sea-ice and chemistry models on the regional scale. Such coupling offers two primary advantages: (1) It is accomplished at scales more consistent with regional processes and available models; (2) It allows the explicit description of fine scale interactions between different Earth System components. A discussion of available models, strategies for coupling and issues which would especially benefit from an integrated regional modeling approach is presented.
Development of a whole-virus multiplex flow cytometric assay for antibody screening of a specific pathogen-free primate colony

Our goal was to determine if a multiplex technique using a fluorescent bead-based flow cytometric assay could yield results comparable to traditional enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in terms of sensitivity, specificity, cross-reactivity, and throughput. We applied both techniques to serologic screening of specific pathogen-free macaques, for type D simian retrovirus, simian T-lymphotropic virus, Cercopithicine herpesvirus 1, and simian immunodeficiency virus, and found a high correlation between the bead-based multiplex assay and ELISA. The multiplex assay demonstrated greater sensitivity with no loss in specificity when compared to the ELISA. A lower false-positive rate with the multiplex assay decreased the number of confirmatory Western blots required. Using the multiplex assay, we were able to screen samples for 4 viruses simultaneously in the time it took to perform a single-virus ELISA, resulting in a faster turnaround time and higher throughput. The multiplexed assay provided greater sensitivity, increased stability, and better performance than ELISA.
The effect of supplemental food on the growth rates of neonatal, young, and adult cotton rats ( Sigmodon hispidus) in northeastern Kansas, USA

Abstract In food-limited populations, the presence of extra food resources can influence the way individuals allocate energy to growth and reproduction. We experimentally increased food available to cotton rats (Sigmodon hispidus) near the northern limit of their range over a 2-year period and tested the hypothesis that seasonal growth rates would be enhanced by supplemental food during winter and spring when natural food levels are low. We also examined whether additional food resources were allocated to somatic growth or reproductive effort by pregnant and lactating females. The effect of supplemental food on growth varied with mass and season, but did not influence the growth rates of most cotton rats during spring and winter. In winter, small animals on supplemented grids had higher growth rates than small animals on control grids, but females in spring had lower growth rates under supplemented conditions. Growth rates of supplemented cotton rats were enhanced in summer. Northern cotton rat populations may use season-specific foraging strategies, maximizing energy intake during the reproductive season and minimizing time spent foraging in winter. Adult females invest extra resources in reproduction rather than in somatic growth. Pregnant females receiving supplemental food had higher growth rates than control females, and dependent pups (≤ 1 month of age) born to supplemented mothers had higher growth rates than those born to control mothers. Increased body size seems to confer an advantage during the reproductive season, but has no concomitant advantage to overwinter survival.
Optimal operation planning and sequencing: minimization of tool changeovers

Abstract Process planning is divided into two major tasks: routeing planning and operation planning. For operation planning a two-phase problem solving structure is proposed. In phase I, we focus on selection of process plans for a group of parts to be machined for the next planning cycle. It is formulated and solved as a dynamic programming problem. In phase II, we select and sequence operations and tools for those process plans. To this end, two 0–1 integer programming models are formulated and solved. A numerical example is presented to illustrate the problem solving steps.
System interconnect issues for subnanosecond signal transmission

A discontinuity has developed between the densities available with ULSI circuits and printed circuit board assemblies. Multichip module (MCM) technologies are poised to bridge that gap. Properly designed 3-D MCMs can deliver the compact size and high-speed of near wafer scale integration but notwithout significant electro-mechanical design challenges. This paper explores the natural constraints shaping future high speed interconnect design. 1. The Problem The transmission of subnanosecond signals alone is not difficult. Difficulties arise when one attempts to assemble multiple circuits into a system that need to transfer information at subnanosecond speeds. The system design puzzle in figure [1] depicts the problem faced by computer designers . '' Success is measured by how cost effectively one is able to interconnect and integrate the processor cache main memory data I/O cooling and the DC power system. Solutions to this challenge are evolving at a revolutionary pace. The subnanosecond pulse shown in figure [2] is representative of the information signals transferred between logic circuits of the system. Signal rise and fall times of less than 100 picoseconds are common today. One could slow down the pulse edge rise time to alleviate current switching problems while sacrificing system performance. Lowering voltage swings will also assist with the current switching demands. 2. The System Volume All the components that go into a system occupy space. Less space translates into hiher speeds and lower materials costs.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Heterogeneous Axonal Arborizations of Rat Thalamic Reticular Neurons in the Ventrobasal Nucleus

The y-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-containing neurons of the thalamic reticular nucleus (nRt) are a major source of inhibitory innervation in dorsal thalamic nuclei. Individual nRt neurons were intracellularly recorded and labelled in an in vitro rat thalamic slice preparation to investigate their projection into ventrobasal thalamic nuclei (VB). Camera lucida reconstructions of 37 neurons indicated that nRt innervation ranges from a compact, focal projection to a widespread, diffuse projection encompassing large areas of VB. The main axons of 65% of the cells gave rise to intra-nRt collaterals prior to leaving the nucleus and, once within VB, ramified into one of three branching patterns: cluster, intermediate, and diffuse. The cluster arborization encompassed a focal region averagmg approximately 25,000 pm2 and contained a high density of axonal swellings, indicative of a topographic projection. The intermediate structure extended across an area approximately fourfold greater and also contained numerous axonal swellings. The diffuse arborization of nRt neurons covered a large region of VB and contained a relatively low density of axonal swellings. Analysis of somatic size and shape revealed that diffuse arborizations arose from significantly smaller, fusiform-shaped somata. Cytochrome oxidase reactivity or parvalbumin immunoreactivity was used to delineate a discontinuous staining pattern representing thalamic barreloids. The size of a cluster arborization closely approximated that of an individual barreloid. The heterogeneous arborizations from nRt neurons may reflect a dynamic range of inhibitory influences of nRt on dorsal thalamic activity. IW~ Wilry-Liss, Inc.
Treatment motivation in drug users: A theory-based analysis

Motivation for drug use treatment is widely regarded as crucial to a client's engagement in treatment and success in quitting drug use. Motivation is typically measured with items reflecting high treatment readiness (e.g., perceived need for treatment and commitment to participate) and low treatment resistance (e.g., skepticism regarding benefits of treatment). Building upon reactance theory and the psychotherapeutic construct of resistance, we conceptualized these two aspects of treatment motivation - readiness and resistance - as distinct constructs and examined their predictive power in a sample of 1295 drug-using offenders referred to treatment while on probation. The sample was 60.7% African Americans, 33.5% non-Hispanic Whites, and 21.2% women; their ages ranged from 16 to 63 years old. Interviews occurred at treatment entry and 6 months later. Readiness (but not resistance) predicted treatment retention during the 6-month period. Resistance (but not readiness) predicted drug use, especially among offenders for whom the treatment referral was coercive. These findings suggest that readiness and resistance should both be assessed among clients entering treatment, especially when the referral is coercive. Intake and counseling protocols should address readiness and resistance separately.
The insulin receptor substrate-1: A biomarker for cancer?

This review focuses on IRS-1 and the evidence of its role in cell transformation. The literature strongly suggests that IRS-1 should be considered a biomaker for cancers susceptible to IGF-IR targeting. In addition, I would like to propose that IRS-1 may have a more general role in cancer, and could be considered as a protein having the opposite effect of tumor suppressors, a sort of anti-p53 molecule.
The Lineaments of Antebellum Southern Romanticism

and even more of the phenomenon of Romanticism. These changes, natural enough over the span of two intellectual generations, have made many ofthat book's presumptions questionable; so a second look at the problem seems worthwhile, to clear the ground and to indicate fresh directions. For Osterweis wrote within the assumptions of the 1940s about the nature and shortcomings of Romanticism. He was guided by Irving Babbitt, who scorned Romanticism as a puling and exaggerated passion instigated by Rousseau, a disaster for rational men: at best silly, as with the jousts of antebellum Virginia; at worst dangerous, as with the secession convention of South Carolina. But Osterweis was Babbitt with a difference. While Babbitt and, more weightily, Ernst Cassirer had thought that Romanticism had led the world astray and it was still astray, with Hitler the avatar of Hegel as chilling evidence, Osterweis cheerily regarded Romanticism as a movement that had expired with the nineteenth century, a fossil safe to mock. To this perspective, largely adopted from Jacques Barzun's Komanticism and the Modern Ego (1943), Osterweis added the view of Arthur Lovejoy, who had insisted that Romanticism, while possessing a core notion of diversity and flux, should most safely be regarded as multiple: there were Romanticisms, not a Romanticism.1
The finite-dimensional Freeman thesis.

I suggest a modification—and mathematization—of Freeman’s thesis on the relations among “perception”, “the finite brain”, and “the world”, based on my recent proposal that the theory of finite topological spaces is both an adequate and a natural mathematical foundation for human psychology.
Bach's French overtures and the politics of overdotting

M ORE than 20 years ago, back when questions about the performance of Baroque music were easier to answer, the opening movement of Bach's 'Overture in the French Manner' lent authority to both sides of a contentious debate. At issue was the realization of rhythm in French overtures. Privileging the familiar, engraved version of the ouverture proper (ex.1) over an earlier version of the same work from the hand of Anna Magdalena Bach (ex.2), Michael Collins maintained that the characteristic dotted rhythms of French overtures should be sharpened in performance. Bach's B minor overture, according to this (mainstream) view, is simply more explicit; the C minor version reflects an older, less precise way of notating the same rhythms. Making an equally strong case for a more-or-less literal reading of both, Frederick Neumann countered that Bach changed his mind about French overture style, not just about its notation.' If only the composer himself had been available for a personal consultation. Old J. S. B. might have resolved, once and for all, the long-standing controversy over the systematic lengthening of dotted and tied notes and the corresponding shortening of upbeats in (at least his) French overtures. As it happened however, his twin overtures simply added fuel to the fire.2 More recently, in a monograph on notes inegales and overdotting, Stephen Hefling coolly observes that 'in the case of ... Bwv831, [Bach] apparently took the trouble to notate the performance mannerism of overdotting before sending the work to press.'3 This much is clear. But did Bach, in making these revisions, simply refine imprecise notation, or did he specify new rhythms? In a new book on Bach's keyboard works David Schulenberg proposes that Bach did both: some of the changes are real and others only cosmetic; the revised rhythms of the first several bars lend a 'more vehement motion' to the beginning, while the small changes in other upbeat figures (the ends of bars 5, 7, 8, to and elsewhere) improve passages in parallel motion that no intelligent musician would perform as written.4 While Schulenberg's very sensible reading gets no argument here, I return to what is surely Bach's most infamous overture for a couple of reasons: first, because its two versions epitomize (as we shall see) two fundamentally different styles of French overtures; second, because the debate over French Baroque performance style, as my title implies, was about more than just rhythm. Ironically, the first part of this article, though it supports Neumann's otherwise lonely position, will raise few hackles; there is abundant evidence that Bach changed his mind about French rhythmic style tout court. As for the second, I should perhaps say at the outset that this inquiry into the 'politics' of overdotting concerns ideology and aesthetics more than practice.
Further work on free convection in water at 4°C

Abstract Previous theory has estimated heat transfer coefficients for natural convection in water at its maximum density; they are found to be too low by 15 per cent and restricted to plate temperatures of less than 8°C. By deriving more accurate density—temperature relationships and by taking some account of the variation in Prandtl number, new solutions have been found for plate temperatures of up to 35 °C.
Environmental damage due to fossil fuels use

Abstract The objective of this study is to identify the negative effects of the fossil fuels use and to evaluate their economic significance. An economic value of the damage for each of the analysed effects has been estimated as the annual cost in US dollars per unit energy of the fuel used ($ GJ−1). This external costs of fossil fuel use should be added to their existing market price, and such real costs should be compared with the real costs of other, environmentally acceptable, energy alternatives, such as hydrogen.
Cutaneous Porphyrin Photosensitization: Murine Ear Swelling as a Marker of the Acute Response

Acute cutaneous photosensitivity is a major manifestation of certain forms of human porphyria and also occurs in patients treated with hematoporphyrin derivative (HpD) photoradiation for the diagnosis and treatment of malignant tumors. In this study a quantitative animal model useful for in vivo studies of acute porphyrin photosensitization in cutaneous tissue was developed. C3H mice injected with HpD and irradiated 6 h later with 405 nm energy developed a 40-90% increase in ear thickness which was present immediately after irradiation and persisted for at least 24 h. No ear swelling occurred in animals receiving 405 nm radiation alone or HpD alone. Histologically, this photosensitivity reaction was manifest as edema, vascular dilatation, and mast cell degranulation immediately after irradiation followed by an influx of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and epidermal necrosis 24 h later. Tissue injury evoked by HpD and light was accompanied by extravasation of intravenously administered 125I-labeled albumin in the irradiated ears, indicating that photosensitization was accompanied by transudation of serum into the site of tissue injury. An in vivo correlation of this approach was verified by detection of measurable increase in ear thickness in irradiated mice rendered porphyric by the ingestion of a griseofulvin-containing diet. The mouse ear swelling model offers a useful system with which to study acute porphyrin photosensitization in the skin, and may lead to important new insights into the pathogenesis and prevention of this form of phototoxicity.
French nuclear forces, 2008

(2008). French nuclear forces, 2008. Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists: Vol. 64, No. 4, pp. 52-57.
Review: Current studies on some physical properties of ionic liquids

As a novel substituting solvent for organic solvents, low-temperature ionic liquids have attracted much attention as good media in organic synthesis and other chemical processes. Better understanding of physical properties of ionic liquids are very helpful in exploring reaction mechanisms and controlling reaction outputs. This review summarises current studies on several physical properties (melting point, vapor pressure and stability, polarity, miscibility, density, viscosity) that are important for organic reactions.
The Effect of Wear on the Compressive Stress in the Sphere-on-Plane Configuration

A burnished film of graphite fluoride was used to lubricate a sphere-on-plane test configuration. Compressive stress and sphere wear volume were determined as functions of time from the wear scar area on the sphere. The stress variation was extreme, from 122,000 psi initial value to a final value of 796 psi after 376.2 min of rubbing. The rate of volume worn was approximately constant after the first two minutes. Presented as an American Society of Lubrication Engineers paper at the ASLE/ASME Lubrication Conference held in Atlanta, Georgia, October 16–18, 1973
Effect of compatibilization and ABS type on properties of PBT/ABS blends

Abstract Toughened blends of poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT) with appropriate ABS materials can be prepared without a compatibilizer within limited melt processing situations. As illustrated by transmission electron microscopy, coarsening of uncompatibilized blends occurs under certain molding conditions resulting in a deleterious effect on blend properties. Methyl methacrylate, glycidyl methacrylate (GMA), ethyl acrylate (MGE) terpolymers were shown to be effective reactive compatibilizers for PBT/ABS blends that broaden the processing window and provide improved low temperature impact properties, ABS dispersion, and morphological stability. A twin screw extruder is more effective than the single screw extruder used here for processing these reactive blends. Several ABS types with different rubber contents were examined; generally, materials with very high rubber contents were found to be more beneficial for toughening PBT. Among these high rubber content materials, the ABS material having the lowest melt viscosity was found to be superior for optimizing morphology and impact properties. At leat 30% of this material, containing a minimum of 36% rubber, is required for producing toughened blends. Moderate amounts of GMA functionality in the compatibilizer (>5%) and small amounts of compatibilizer in the blend (
Microwave permittivity of As and B implanted and annealed silicon

The absorption of energy from electromagnetic fields always involves the conversion of electromagnetic energy into the heat. Dissipated power density is proportional to dielectric loss. In this work we investigate dielectric loss (complex permittivity) of intrinsic and extrinsic Cz and Fz silicon in the X microwave band. The mechanism of the interaction of microwave irradiation with non-polar elemental semiconductors is discussed.
Blockade of GABAA Receptors in the Ventromedial Hypothalamus Further Stimulates Glucagon and Sympathoadrenal but Not the Hypothalamo-Pituitary-Adrenal Response to Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia provokes a multifaceted counterregulatory response involving the sympathoadrenal system, stimulation of glucagon secretion, and the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis that is commonly impaired in diabetes. We examined whether modulation of inhibitory input from gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH), a major glucose-sensing region within the brain, plays a role in affecting counterregulatory responses to hypoglycemia. Normal Sprague-Dawley rats had carotid artery and jugular vein catheters chronically implanted, as well as bilateral steel microinjection guide cannulas inserted down to the level of the VMH. Seven to 10 days following surgery, the rats were microinjected with artificial extracellular fluid, the GABA(A) receptor agonist muscimol (1 nmol/side), or the GABA(A) receptor antagonist bicuculline methiodide (12.5 pmol/side) before being subjected to a hyperinsulinemic-hypoglycemic (2.5 mmol/l) glucose clamp for 90 min. Following VMH administration of bicuculline methiodide, glucose infusion rates were significantly suppressed, whereas muscimol raised glucose infusion rates significantly compared with controls. Glucagon and epinephrine responses were elevated with the antagonist and suppressed with the agonist compared with controls. Corticosterone responses, however, were unaffected by either administration of the agonist or antagonist into the VMH. These data demonstrate that modulation of the GABAergic system in the VMH alters both glucagon and sympathoadrenal, but not corticosterone, responses to hypoglycemia. Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that GABAergic inhibitory tone within the VMH can modulate glucose counterregulatory responses.
Broader, Deeper and Greener: European Union Environmental Politics, Policies, and Outcomes

The European Union (EU) is influential in environmental politics and policy-making across its 28 member states, around its periphery, and globally. Building on a diverse analytical and empirical literature, this article's seven sections each highlights important research findings and outcomes from more than four decades of EU environmental governance. These include (a) a substantial transfer of legal authority from member states to the supranational level; (b) a growing involvement of EU bodies, advocacy groups, and civil society in regional goal-setting and decision-making; (c) the development of elaborate governance systems and mechanisms for making, implementing, and enforcing policy; (d) EU exercise of considerable influence over countries seeking membership before and after joining the Union; (e) increased EU participation and influence in international fora; (f) a mixed record of uneven implementation and varied environmental outcomes in Europe and across the world; and (g) continuing challenges in ...
Three Dimensional integration - Considerations for memory applications

This paper reviews the technology and design considerations for the implementation of 3 Dimensional integration of memory in a high performance logic environment
Obesity Related Kidney Disease

Obesity is a risk factor for both de novo disease and as a complication of existing chronic kidney disease. Obesity related disease is characterized by albuminuria, glomerulomegaly and secondary focal glomerulosclerosis. Traditionally altered renal hemodynamics causing hyperfiltration and upregulated renin angiotensin system have been associated with these changes. Recently identified circulating factors produced by fat stores such as adiponectin, leptin and inflammatory markers have shown to directly affect the cells in the renal glomeruli and cause pathological changes. Weight loss, blockade of the renin angiotensin system and restoration of adipokine levels may be beneficial to ameliorate the progression of obesity related disease.
A white-light source operated polymer-based micromachined Fabry-Perot chemo/biosensor

A white-light source operated polymer-based micromachined Fabry-Perot chemo/biosensor is reported for the first time. It is a refractive-index sensitive optical sensor. The transducing signal varies upon the changes of the effective index of refraction in the sensing area, which is the Fabry-Perot cavity. This chemo/biosensor is made with PDMS and glass. Specifically, the micromachined Fabry-Perot interferometer (μFPI) and cavity is fabricated by bonding glass and the soft-lithographically patterned PDMS. Several chemicals have been detected with the prototype devices. Measurements show that at least 10ppm chemicals can be detected even without any performance optimization of the devices.
3D face recognition with the average-half-face

We present a promising analysis on using the pattern of symmetry in the face to increase the accuracy of three-dimensional face recognition. We introduce the concept of the dasiaaverage-half-facepsila, motivated by the symmetry preserving singular value decomposition. We compare face recognition results using the eigenfaces face recognition algorithm with average-half-face data and full face data in several experiments on a 3D face data set of 1126 images. We show that the results from the eigenfaces face recognition system using the average-half-face is more accurate than using the full face, only the left or right half of the face or a random choice of half of the face.
Effect of Uniaxial Stress Upon the Electromechanical Properties of Various Piezoelectric Ceramics and Single Crystals

A systematic investigation of the stress-dependent (σ) electromechanical properties of various ferroelectric ceramics and single crystals has been performed. Studies have been carried out on “hard” and “soft” piezoelectrics, electrostrictive ceramics, and various orientations of (1−x)Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–(x) PbTiO3 PMN–x%PT single crystals. The large signal piezoelectric constant, acoustic power density, and coupling coefficient have been determined by calculation. The results are compared, in order to develop an understanding of the relative merits of the different types of active acoustic materials.
Perspectives on the academic preparation of MIS professionals

To a greater extent than other functional areas, the MIS function is experiencing pressures originating from an amalgam of ongoing technical, organizational, and environmental trends. Information technology continues to change rapidly. The role of information in achieving organization objectives is becoming more critical. The intensity of competition is increasing both nationally and internationally.Although perhaps not at the same pace, academic programs designed to prepare MIS professionals have also developed and changed in response to those pressures. The number of undergraduate and graduate degree programs is still on an upward trend, but the nature of academic institutions has, to some extent, made the response to needed curriculum revision slower than practitioners might wish.The panel identified the following issues related to the academic preparation of MIS professionals: • Organizations are increasingly recognizing the potential of information technology to add value to products and services and to improve relationships between an enterprise and its customers and suppliers.• MIS jobs are undergoing fundamental changes. Some technical skills are becoming obsolete and are being replaced with new ones, e.g., the ability to use computer aided software engineering tools and artificial intelligence technology.• MIS professionals must become more business oriented. This means they must possess more highly developed business skills in order to compete successfully.• MIS professionals must possess considerable political, organizational, and communication skills rather than just technical competence.• Users of information systems are more knowledgeable about computer capabilities. They are thus more demanding and require more sophisticated systems.• MIS professionals must take greater responsibility for their own career development.• MIS professionals should adopt an “infopreneuring attitude” and become more flexible, adaptable, and versatile in responding to technological developments and competitive pressures.• Colleges and universities must continuously examine and update the content of their MIS curricula to keep pace with environmental, technological, and organizational change.• Graduate studies for MIS professionals should be balanced among technical, political, organizational, communication, and business theory and skills.• The linkage between academic preparation and professional practice could be improved through closer cooperation between businesses and colleges and universities.
Integrated Coupling to Whispering Gallery Modes of Microspheres in a Microfluidic Platform

We demonstrate excitation of whispering gallery modes in dielectric microspheres using optical trapping with silicon nitride waveguides. Resonances are measured from waveguide transmission thus providing an integrated platform for using microspheres in lab-on-a-chip biosensing applications.
Micropipette aspiration of double emulsion-templated polymersomes

We measured the materials properties of polymersomes templated by double emulsions. Using micropipette aspiration, we verified the unilamellarity of fluid membranes consisting of PEO30-b-PBD46 diblock copolymers. In addition, we used micropipette aspiration to both track and verify solvent removal from double emulsion-templated polymersomes.
Differential physiological responses of dalmatian toadflax, Linaria dalmatica L. Miller, to injury from two insect biological control agents: Implications for decision-making in biological control

Successful biological control of invasive weeds with specialist herbivorous insects is predicated on the assumption that the injury stresses the weeds sufÞciently to cause reductions in individual Þtness. Because plant gas exchange directly impacts growth and Þtness, characterizing how injury affects these primary processes may provide a key indicator of physiological impairmentN which then may lead to reductions in Þtness. The objective of this study was to use physiological methods to evaluate how the invasive weed, Linaria dalmatica L. Miller (Dalmatian toadsax), is affected by two introduced biological control agents within different injury guilds: the stem-boring weevil, Mecinus janthinus Germar, and the defoliating moth, Calophasia lunula Hufnagel. All studies with M. janthinus were conducted under Þeld conditions at two sites in Montana in 2003 and 2004. ForC.lunula evaluations, a total of Þve greenhouse studies in 2003 and 2004 were used. One Þeld study in 2003 and two studies in 2004 also were conducted. Variables measured included net CO2 exchange rate, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rate. Results from both Þeld sites revealed that the primary physiology of Dalmatian toadsax was deleteriously affected by M. janthinus larval injury. There were no signiÞcant differences among treatments for any of the gas exchange variables measured in all eight experiments with C. lunula. Our results indicate that insect herbivores in two distinct injury guilds differentially affect Dalmatian toadsax physiology. Based on the primary phys- iological parameters evaluated in this study, M. janthinus had more impact on Dalmatian toadsax than C. lunula. With such information, improved risk-beneÞt decisions can be made about whether to release exotic biological control agents.
Separation and characterization of pedogenic barite crystals from petrocalcic horizon materials for future isotopic and geochronological applications

Abstract Although extensive work has been conducted on pedogenic barite in the petrocalcic soil horizons at Mormon Mesa, NV, further investigations are required to understand the mode and timing of its precipitation. Isolation of barite crystals from petrocalcic soil materials is an important first step, after which, crystal morphology can be examined. We sought a method to isolate barite and other heavy minerals to examine their feasibility for future isotopic and geochronological techniques. Using XRD, SEM with EDS and microprobe analyses, barite was analyzed for evidence of chemical or physical alteration after chemical separation procedures with HCl to remove carbonate and methylene iodide to separate minerals with specific gravities greater than and less than 3.3 g/mL. After separation, barite clusters were observed within the heavy mineral separates. Barite showed no remarkable signs of physical or chemical alteration after separation and small (
Use of Metformin in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

OBJECTIVE:To review the use of the insulin-sensitizing agent metformin in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).DATA SOURCES:Biomedical literature was accessed through MEDLINE (1996–March 2001) and the Iowa Drug Information Service. Key terms included metformin and polycystic ovary syndrome.DATA SYNTHESIS:A number of small clinical studies have examined the use of metformin in the treatment of PCOS. Women treated with metformin demonstrated normalization of endocrine function with minimal adverse effects.CONCLUSIONS:Metformin can be beneficial in normalizing menstrual irregularities and stimulating ovulation in previously anovulatory women. Metformin therapy is well tolerated by the majority of patients and should be considered for use in women with PCOS.
Evaluation of Plating Media for the Determination of Viable Microorganisms in dental Plaque

Four agar media were evaluated to determine which one might be most suitable for the determination of the predominant number of viable microorganisms in dental plaque. The highest plate counts and uniformly larger microbial colonies were consistently obtained with Brain Heart Infusion Agar.
Alleviating Learned Helplessness in a Wilderness Setting: An Application of Attribution Theory to Outward Bound

A therapeutic intervention for the alleviation of learned helplessness is discussed in terms of theories of causal attributions, self-concept development, and environmental psychology. Outward Bound, a wilderness training program, is presented as an example of this intervention.
Permutation-based elitist genetic algorithm using serial scheme for large-sized resource-constrained project scheduling

This research paper presents a new permutation-based Elitist genetic algorithm using serial schedule generation scheme for solving a large-sized multiple resource- constrained project scheduling problem, which is one of the most challenging problems in construction engineering. A key aspect of the algorithm was the application of the elitist roulette selection operator to preserve the best individual solution for the next generation so as to obtain the improved solution. Serial schedule generation scheme was applied to generate a feasible solution to the problem. Results for large-sized project network problems were presented to demonstrate the performance and accuracy of the algorithm. The computational results indicate that the proposed algorithm not only produces reasonably good solutions for the resource scheduling problem over the heuristic method and other GA, but also able to solve large-sized multiple resource-constrained project scheduling problems applicable to the construction industry.
A modulated sample introduction system for atomic emission spectrometry

A modulated sample-introduction device for use in flame emission spectrometry has been constructed and evaluated. With this device, the flow of aerosol to the excitation source is modulated by the application, at a specific frequency, of a pressure pulse to the nebulizer chamber; the use of frequency-selective detection then permits efficient signal recovery. If source background remains at a constant level, it is not detected and the signal-to-background ratio (S/B) is consequently improved. Because the technique provides a decrease in the instrument 1/f and flame-background flicker noise, detection limits are improved. These features are especially prominent when the analyte line of interest is in a spectral region of high source background. Modulation frequencies of 8 to 20 Hz have been explored and have resulted in good depth of modulation (>99%) and signal-pulse separation. The construction and operation of the device will be described and its performance for several elements evaluated in terms of detection limits, S/B enhancement, and working curve linearity. Also, the extension of the technique to selective spectral-line modulation schemes and to inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometry will be considered.
A Linear Mapping Technique for Dispersion Removal of Lamb Waves

A robust signal processing technique using linear mapping for removing dispersion of Lamb waves is presented in this article. Based on the assumption that the dispersion relation characteristic can...
Not a Trailer Anymore: Perceptions of Manufactured Housing

Abstract Manufactured housing, commonly called mobile homes or trailers, offers an affordable housing alternative for many low‐ and moderate‐income households. Although such housing is built to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development standards, local communities and states often regulate placement. This article reports on a statewide study that profiled Virginia residents of single‐section and double‐section manufactured housing and compared their perceptions of that housing with the perceptions of other community residents. Double‐section residents had more education and higher incomes and were more likely to own their home and the land it was on than single‐section residents. Community residents had persistently negative opinions about the impact of manufactured housing on their community. Given the many challenges communities and the manufactured housing industry face in using these units to provide low‐cost housing, negative impressions, such as poor design, aging units, and “trailer” parks, ...
Human protein metabolism: its measurement and regulation

The body's protein mass not only provides architectural support for cells but also serves vital roles in maintaining their function and survival. The whole body protein pool, as well as that of individual tissues, is determined by the balance between the processes of protein synthesis and degradation. These in turn are regulated by interactions among hormonal, nutritional, neural, inflammatory, and other influences. Prolonged changes in either the synthetic or degradative processes (or both) that cause protein wasting increase morbidity and mortality. The application of tracer kinetic methods, combined with measurements of the activity of components of the cellular signaling pathways involved in protein synthesis and degradation, affords new insights into the regulation of both protein synthesis and breakdown in vivo. These insights, including those from studies of insulin, insulin-like growth factor I, growth hormone, and amino acid-mediated regulation of muscle and whole body protein turnover, provide opportunities to develop and test therapeutic approaches with promise to minimize or prevent these adverse health consequences.
Explaining Rare Acts of Violence: The Limits of Evidence From Population Research

After the mass shooting in Tucson, experts were asked: �Was this tragedy preventable?� The author of this month�s Open Forum explains why it is so difficult to predict such incidents. He also refle...
Improvements in kinematics, muscle activity and pain during functional tasks in females with patellofemoral pain following a single patterned electrical stimulation treatment.

Abstract Background Individuals with patellofemoral pain present with altered hip muscle activation, faulty movement patterns, and pain during functional tasks. Examining new treatment options to address these impairments may better treat those with patellofemoral pain. The purpose of this study was to determine if patterned electrical stimulation to the lower extremity affects muscle activity, movement patterns, and pain following a single treatment. Methods Fifteen females with patellofemoral pain were randomized to receive a single 15-minute treatment of either a patterned electrical neuromuscular stimulation or a sham. Peak kinematics of the knee, hip, and trunk, electromyography and pain were examined pre and post-intervention during a single leg squat and lateral step-down task. Group means and pre/post reduced kinematic values were also plotted during the entire task with 90% confidence intervals to identify differences in movement strategies. Findings No baseline differences were found in peak kinematics between groups. No pre to post-intervention differences in peak knee, hip and trunk kinematics were found, however differences were seen when the quality of movement across the entire tasks was assessed. The electrical stimulation group had improved knee flexion and hip abduction during the lateral step-down. A significant improvement in gluteus medius activation following patterned electrical neuromuscular stimulation occurred during the step-down ( P = 0.039). Significant pain improvements were also seen in both the single leg squat ( P = 0.025) and lateral step-down ( P = 0.006). Interpretation A single treatment of patterned electrical neuromuscular stimulation improved muscle activation, lower extremity kinematics during functional tasks, and pain.
Cover Letters: Making a Clear Transmission

This article discusses the important elements that attorneys should be aware of in their most frequent form of communication: the cover letter.