cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A case report of a ruptured Meckel's diverticulum with ectopic gastric and pancreatic tissue with negative computed tomography.

Abstract Introduction A Meckel's diverticulum is a rare but known cause of an acute abdomen and can often be confused for acute appendicitis on physical examination. It is caused by an incomplete closure of the omphalomesenteric duct. It is present in 2% of the population and only 2% of those patients are symptomatic. Case presentation This is the case of a sixty-four-year-old male presented to the surgical clinic at request of his primary care physician with concern for acute appendicitis. The patient had a CT A/P with IV contrast performed two days prior to his office visit for the same pain which was non-diagnostic. The patient was taken to the operating room and found to have Meckel's Diverticulitis which was managed by laparoscopic hand-assisted small bowel resection and anastomosis. The patient had an uncomplicated postoperative course. Pathology demonstrated ulcerated gastric mucosa and pancreatic tissue. Discussion Symptomatic Meckel's diverticulum is managed with small bowel resection versus diverticulectomy based on characteristics of the diverticulum. The most common type of ectopic tissue is gastric followed by pancreatic. It is rare to find both types of tissue together. Conclusion This case describes an unusual case of a rare acute surgical pathology with non-diagnostic imaging and labs. This case also describes an exceedingly rare histopathology of a Meckel's Diverticulum with the presence of both ectopic gastric and pancreatic tissues.
Small Molecule Stabilization of PINK-1/PINK1 Improves Neurodegenerative Disease

Macroautophagic recycling of dysfunctional mitochondria, known as mitophagy, is essential for mitochondrial homeostasis and cell viability. Accumulation of defective mitochondria and impaired mitophagy have been widely implicated in many neurodegenerative diseases, and loss-of-function mutations of two regulators of mitophagy, PINK1 and Parkin, are amongst the most common causes of recessive Parkinson9s disease. Activation of mitophagy via pharmacological treatments may be a feasible approach for combating neurodegeneration. In this effort, we screened ~45,000 small molecules for the ability to activate mitophagy. A high-throughput, whole-organism, phenotypic screen was conducted by monitoring stabilization of PINK-1/PINK1, a key event in mitophagy activation, in a Caenorhabditis elegans strain carrying a Ppink-1::PINK-1::GFP reporter. We obtained eight hits that induced mitophagy, as evidenced by increased mitochondrial fragmentation and autophagosome formation. Several of the compounds also reduced ATP production, oxygen consumption, mitochondrial mass, and/or mitochondrial membrane potential. Importantly, we found that treatment with two compounds, which we named PS83 and PS106 (more commonly known as sertraline) reduced neurodegenerative disease phenotypes (including delayed paralysis in a C. elegans Alzheimer9s model) in a PINK-1/PINK1-dependent manner. This report presents a promising step toward the identification of compounds that will stimulate mitochondrial turnover.
Fractal textured surfaces for high temperature corrosion mitigation in molten salts

Abstract Mitigation of corrosion of structural materials in contact with molten salts is imperative in high temperature applications such as nuclear and solar thermal power plants. This paper introduces, for the first time, a novel approach to corrosion mitigation through fractal surface texturing and details a systematic corrosion study of a variety of structural materials. Multiscale fractal textured surfaces on SS316, In800H, In718, In625, and Ha230 were fabricated via chemical etching, whose parameters were optimized to obtain surface fractal dimensions above 1.90. The influence of grown oxides was examined by annealing the optimized etched surfaces with high fractal dimensions at a high temperature. The corrosion mitigation characteristics of plain, etched and etched-annealed surfaces were systematically studied in molten 60% NaNO3 + 40% KNO3 at 600 °C. The fractal textured surfaces are shown to reduce corrosion rate by 30% for ferrous alloys and by over 80% and up to 87% for high nickel content alloys. Elemental composition analysis reveals that the corrosion oxides are correspondingly diminished on fractal textured surfaces compared to plain surfaces. The study is significant in that any existing material may be made more corrosion resistant through this simple surface modification and treatment.
Evaluation of Peripheral Airways

The small airways of the lungs are an important site of involvement in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease . The techniques in pulmonary function testing to assess small airways include spirometry, plethysmography, impulse oscillometry, inert gas washout, and exhaled nitric oxide measurement. Since each test provides unique information, a combination of these investigations will likely provide the best evaluation of small airway pathology.
Genetic Variability in Cutthroat Trout

During the summer of 1976 an investigation into the nature of genetic variability in the cutthroat trout (Salmo clarki) was initiated. The results presented here are the product of only one summer's data, and will be subject to rigorus testing in the next two summers. This project has been supported in part by a New York Zoological Society Scholarship and a National Science Foundation Energy-Related Traineeship. I wish to thank Pete Hayden of Grand Teton National Park, Max Rollefson, Jon Erickson, and John Kiefling, of the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission, and John Varley and Ron Jones of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for their cooperation in collection of cutthroat trout. I would also like to thank Drs. R .M. Kitchin, H. Bergman, and G. T. Baxter, of the Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming for their help in organizaing this research project.
Some Essentials Charakteristicks of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises

Small and medium sized enterprises were investigated by means of university students who helped managers to fulfill 185 questionnaires. Questionnaires were sorted according to the size of firms into 4 groups [1-9, 10-24, 25-49, 50-249 employees] and according to the branches [Industrial production, Building firms, Woodwork, Food processing firms, Retail business, Services including transportation]. The main indicators concern the size of firms, number of employees, productivity, legal form, number of managers, form of production, foreign country activities and strategy of enterprises. Interesting results were received especially in classification according to branches, where firms in Engineering production and Services substantially differ from others. Classification according to the size showed better results in enterprises with more employees. Enterprises should take these differences into account when applying new methods of organization and management.
More Than Skin Deep: Situated Communities and Agent Orange in the Aluoi Valley, Vietnam

I build upon feminist arguments for situated knowledge and pragmatist arguments for experimental inquiry to articulate and argue for an approach that I refer to as situated communities. This approach seeks to generate effective and ethical scientific research practices by asking that researchers focus on communities in their complex environment as subjects of study instead of relying primarily on clinical trials and laboratory research. Communities should be recognized as situated epistemic agents and as changing, evolving centers of life. Doing so requires that these communities are understood in their materiality through bodies that are aged, gendered, abled/disabled, raced, classed, colonized, bordered, materially advantaged and disadvantaged, engaged in particular daily practices within a complex environment.
THE PERFORMANCE OF A MULTIGAP SPARK PLUG DESIGNED FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS

The electrical principle of operation, the geometrical and electrical circuit constraints on the design of, and the electrical and in- engine performance of a multi-gap spark plug developed for automotive applications are described. The measurements evaluating the in-engine performance of these plugs further indicate that improvements of up to 6% in fuel economy for a simulated CVS test run, the extension of the lean misfire limit by several A/F ratio numbers under various engine operating conditions, and improvements in driveability can be achieved compared to the performance of standard plugs under the same operating conditions. /GMRL/
Synthesis and properties of in situ Si3N4-reinforced BaO·Al2O3·2SiO2 ceramic matrix composites

Silicon nitride (94.5% α, 5.5% β), BaCO3, Al2O3, and SiO2 powders were mixed and pressureless sintered to produce a ceramic matrix composite consisting of 30 vol% barium aluminosilicate (BaO·Al2O3·2SiO2 or BAS) matrix reinforced with in situ grown whiskers of β-Si3N4. In situ X-ray studies of the reactions indicated that BaCO3 decomposes first to yield BaO which reacts with SiO2 to yield a series of barium silicates which then react with Al2O3 between 950 and 1300°C to yield hexacelsian BAS. The sintering times were varied in order to develop a material system that combines the favourable properties of BAS with the high strength of Si3N4. In situ high-temperature X-ray studies after composite processing did not reveal any changes in the BAS or Si3N4 up to temperatures of 1300°C. Dilatometry studies of the sintered composite indicated a low-temperature transformation between 230 and 260°C with the temperature of transformation and volume change associated with the hexagonal to orthorhombic transformation decreasing with an increase of sintering time. Room- and high-temperature (1400°C) strengths were evaluated using four-point bend flexural tests. Composites exhibited near theoretical densities and an increase in flexural strength that was primarily dependent on the higher α- to β-Si3N4 transformation.
Purification and Subunit Structure of Glutathione Reductase from Bakers' Yeast

Abstract A scheme has been devised for the purification of glutathione reductase from bakers' yeast. The purified protein is homogeneous with respect to chromatographic, electrophoretic, and sedimentation criteria. A molecular weight of 1.24 ± 0.05 x 105 was calculated for the protein from sedimentation equilibrium and osmotic pressure measurements. In the presence of 5 m guanidine hydrochloride, the molecular weight is reduced to 5.15 ± 0.3 x 104 calculated from sedimentation equilibrium experiments, assuming no preferential interaction with the solvent, or to 5.60 x 104 calculated from osmotic pressure measurements. These values indicate that the native protein contains two polypeptide chains. The dissociated polypeptide chains appear identical with respect to net charge and molecular size. The native enzyme was found to contain 2 moles of FAD per mole of protein. Both FAD moieties can be separated from the dissociated protein by dialysis or electrophoresis, indicating that FAD is attached to the native protein by noncovalent bonds.
Prevalence and outcomes of low mobility in hospitalized older patients.

Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of different levels of mobility in a hospitalized older cohort, to measure the degree and rate of adverse outcomes associated with different mobility levels, and to examine the physician activity orders and documented reasons for bedrest in the lowest mobility group. Design: A prospective cohort study. Setting: An 800-bed university teaching hospital. Participants: Four hundred ninety-eight hospitalized medical patients, aged 70 and older. Measurements: Using average mobility level, scored from 0 to 12, the low-mobility group was defined as having a score of 4 or less, intermediate as a score of higher than 4 to 8, and high as higher than 8. Outcomes were functional decline, new institutionalization, death, and death or new institutionalization. Results: Low and intermediate levels of mobility were common, accounting for 80 (16%) and 157 (32%) study patients, respectively. Overall, any activity of daily living (ADL) decline occurred in 29%, new institutionalization in 13%, death in 7%, and death or new institutionalization in 22% of patients in this cohort. When compared with the high mobility group, the low and intermediate groups were associated with the adverse outcomes in a graded fashion, even after controlling for multiple confounders. The low-mobility group had an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 5.6 (95% confidence interval (CI)=2.9–11.0) for ADL decline, 6.0 (95% CI=2.5–14.8) for new institutionalization, 34.3 (95% CI=6.3–185.9) for death, and 7.2 (95% CI=3.6–14.4) for death or new institutionalization. The intermediate group had adjusted ORs of 2.5 (95% CI=1.5–4.1), 2.9 (95% CI=1.4–6.0), 10.1 (95% CI=1.9–52.9), and 3.3 (95% CI=1.8–5.9) for ADL decline, new institutionalization, death, and death or new institutionalization, respectively. Bedrest was ordered at some point during hospitalization in 165 (33%) patients. For most patients, mobility was limited involuntarily (bedrest orders), and almost 60% of bedrest episodes in the lowest mobility group had no documented medical indication. Conclusion: Low mobility and bedrest are common in hospitalized older patients and are important predictors of adverse outcomes. This study demonstrated that the adverse outcomes associated with low mobility and bedrest may be viewed as iatrogenic events leading to complications, such as functional decline.
Histopathology and ultrastructure of ovarian hilus cell tumor: Report of two cases

Abstract Two ovarian hilus cell tumors were studied. One was obtained from a virilized woman, while the other was an asymptomatic incidental finding at surgery performed because of an associated ovarian cyst. The ultrastructural findings were compared with those of the few reported cases in the literature. Comparisons were also made with normal and neoplastic testicular Leydig cells, the homologues of ovarian hilus cells. Intranuclear paracrystalline inclusions were observed in the neoplastic hilus cells of both cases. Complexly structured cytoplasmic crystals were found only in Case 1. A clue to the existence of these particular inclusions was the presence of small eosinophilic masses in corresponding locations in the histologic sections. Neither type of inclusions has been previously described. It is postulated that these and related types of structures are precursors of Reinke crystals. Actual Reinke crystals were not encountered. Prominent cytoplasmic features included vesicular smooth endoplasmic reticulum, frequent large mitochondria with tubular cristae, numerous lipid deposits, membranous whorls, lysosomes, and peroxisomes. Pigment or lipofuscin granules were not observed. Although certain ultrastructural differences existed between the two tumors, they were insufficient to explain why only the patient of Case 1 showed masculinizing effects. The overall histopathology and ultrastructure of ovarian hilus cell tumors are strikingly similar to those of testicular Leydig cell neoplasms.
A Portable Demonstration of Orbits in Curved Space-Time

Many introductory astronomy students, when confronted with the idea of curved space-time in discussions of relativity and cosmology, don’t have a very good grasp of what this really means. They are told that the presence of mass “curves” space-time, but it is often not clear to them what is meant by that statement. We have developed a simple portable demonstration of what is meant by curved space-time, by using a two-dimensional analog. We have stretched a thin rubber sheet over a circular metal frame which is supported a few inches above a table top. By placing a heavy weight (about a kilogram) in the center of the sheet, we can mimic the effect of the curvature of space-time around a massive object on an orbiting body (such as a planet orbiting a star). We roll a small ball around the sheet, and the ball describes approximately elliptical orbits around the weight (see the photograph). The orbits aren’t exactly elliptical for two reasons: energy is dissipated by friction between the ball and the sheet, and the sheet doesn’t quite have the correct shape (it is shaped roughly like In r instead of 1/ r : see this by solving Laplace’s equation in two dimensions with circular symmetry). We like to project this demonstration with a video camera placed directly above the sheet, so that the students can see the “orbit” without actually seeing the curvature of the sheet.
Enhanced disinfection by-product formation due to nanoparticles in wastewater treatment plant effluents

Nanoparticles (NPs) are increasingly being incorporated into consumer products and are being used for industrial applications in ways that will lead to their environmental dissemination via wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Many NPs possess catalytic properties that could potentially enhance undesired chemical reactions such as the formation of disinfection by-products during disinfection of wastewater effluent. In this effort, silver (AgNPs), titanium dioxide (TiO2), ceria (CeO2), and nano zero valent iron (NZVI) NPs were investigated for their potential to enhance trihalomethane (THM) formation in three different disinfection regimes: UV alone, free chlorine, and UV+free chlorine. Of the test nanomaterials, only AgNPs demonstrated the capacity to enhance THM formation and thus they were subjected to additional study. AgNPs enhanced THM formation at all concentrations examined (1, 10, and 20 mg L−1) even though the AgNPs were chemically unstable in the presence of free chlorine. The transformation of the AgNPs and the production of non-metallic silver species was observed via UV-vis spectroscopy. The capacity for AgNPs to enhance THM formation was considerably increased in the UV+free chlorine disinfection regime. Although not the focus of the study, formation of AgNPs during UV disinfection of Ag+ in the effluent was also observed. This study illustrates the potential for NPs to catalyze unfavorable chemical reactions during WWTP effluent disinfection. Such a result could prove detrimental to aquatic receiving environments and is especially of concern in water reuse scenarios where aggressive disinfection regimes may be utilized.
Total Parenteral Nutrition Induces Liver Steatosis and Apoptosis in Neonatal Piglets

Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) induces a high rate of liver disease in infants, yet the pathogenesis remains elusive. We used neonatal piglets as an animal model to assess early events leading to TPN-mediated liver injury. Newborn piglets (n = 7) were nourished for 7 d on TPN or enteral nutrition (EN) and the liver tissue and isolated hepatocytes were subjected to morphologic and molecular analysis. Histological analysis revealed prominent steatosis (grade > 2) in 6 of 7 TPN pigs, whereas minimal steatosis (grade < or = 1) was observed in only 2 EN pigs. Abundant cytosolic cytochrome C and DNA fragmentation were observed in hepatocytes from TPN compared with EN piglets. Markers of mitochondrial and Fas-mediated apoptosis were altered in TPN liver tissue, as indicated by a lower ATP concentration (P < 0.05), accumulation of ubiquitin, 9.9-fold activation of caspase-3 activity (P < 0.01), and increased cleavage of poly-(ADP-ribose) polymerase, caspase-8, -9, and -7 when compared with EN livers. Bcl-2 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression was downregulated, whereas Fas and Bax were upregulated in TPN livers. However, levels of caspase-12 and Bip/GRP78, both markers of endoplasmic reticulum-mediated apoptosis, did not differ between the groups. Short-term TPN induces steatosis and oxidative stress, which results in apoptosis mediated by the mitochondrial and Fas pathways. Thus, TPN-induced steatosis in newborn piglets may serve as a novel animal model to assess the pathogenesis of fatty liver and apoptosis-mediated liver injury in infants.
A Review of: “Stephen P. Depoe (Ed.). The Environmental Communication Yearbook, Vol. 3”: Mahwah, NJ: Erlbaum, 2006, 285 pp., ISBN No. 0-8058-5914-4 (hardback).

As environmental issues gain increased salience on the global agenda, environmental communication research continues to expand and diversify. The third volume of The Environmental Communication Yea...
Insect vision based motion detection

Significant progress has been made in the understanding of the insect visual system over the past 40 years. In the field of motion detection particularly, an elementary motion detector (EMD) which is based on a non-linear asymmetric interaction between signals mediated by adjacent points of the sampling lattice of the insect eye was discovered. Gradually, the EMD has been become an essential principle of visual motion detection exhibited in biological motion vision from insects to human beings. An empirical model named the template model was proposed by Horridge (1990). However, there is no unique way of interpreting the physical meanings of templates responding to motion. This paper attempts to resolve the problem of determining the meanings of templates by firstly proposing a directional selectivity function which is subsequently employed to identify template responses induced by coherent motion.
Extracellular cyclophilins in health and disease.

Abstract Background Extracellular cyclophilins (eCyPs) are pro-inflammatory factors implicated in pathogenesis of a number of inflammatory diseases. Most pathogenic activities of eCyPs are related to their chemotactic action towards leukocytes, which is mediated by eCyP receptor on target cells, CD147, and involves peptidyl–prolyl cis–trans isomerase activity of cyclophilins. This activity is inhibited by cyclosporine A (CsA) and non-immunosuppressive derivatives of this drug. Accumulating evidence for the role of eCyPs in disease pathogenesis stimulated research on the mechanisms of eCyP-initiated events, resulting in identification of multiple signaling pathways, characterization of a variety of effector molecules released from eCyP-treated cells, and synthesis of CsA derivatives specifically blocking eCyPs. However, a number of important questions related to the mode of action of eCyPs remain unanswered. Scope of review In this article, we integrate available information on release and function of extracellular cyclophilins into a unified model, focusing on outstanding issues that need to be clarified. Major conclusions Extracellular cyclophilins are critical players in pathogenesis of a number of inflammatory diseases. Their mechanism of action involves interaction with the receptor, CD147, and initiation of a poorly characterized signal transduction process culminating in chemotaxis and production of pro-inflammatory factors. General significance Extracellular cyclophilins present an attractive target for therapeutic interventions that can be used to alleviate symptoms and consequences of acute and chronic inflammation. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Proline-directed Foldases: Cell Signaling Catalysts and Drug Targets.
Prevalence of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Immigrants

Immigrants face barriers to accessing conventional health care systems. Hence, they are expected to have comparatively greater use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). This study examines the prevalence of and reason for CAM use in the U.S. population by citizenship status. Data on 34,483 U.S.-born, naturalized, and non-U.S. citizens from the 2012 National Health Interview Survey was used. CAM was categorized into four domains. Analyses controlling for socioeconomic variables were identified patterns of utilization and reasons for use. The prevalence of all CAM domains was lowest among non-U.S. citizens followed by naturalized citizens. The odds of using CAM were also higher for the immigrants who attained citizenship than for non-citizens. Individuals in all groups reported using more CAM for prevention. Factors related to cost, accessibility, or knowledge of CAM use may contribute to lower use of CAM by naturalized and non-U.S. citizens.
Electrophysiological correlates of noun-verb processing in adults

Auditory event related potentials (ERPs) were recorded to a series of nouns and verbs while 16 adults watched videotaped scenes. The scenes depicted an individual using objects or performing actions that were either labeled or not named by the auditorily presented nouns or verbs. Electrodes were placed over the left and right hemisphere frontal, temporal, and parietal regions of the scalp. Analyses compared ERPs elicited by words that matched or failed to match the scenes. Marked changes were noted in the ERPs recorded from electrode placements across the two hemispheres in response to words that served two different syntactic functions. This procedure is viewed as a useful technique for use with younger subject populations.
Differences in the hepatic P450-dependent metabolism of estrogen and tamoxifen in response to treatment of rats with 3,3 -diindolylmethane and its parent compound indole-3-carbinol

Abstract Indole-3-carbinol (I3C), present in cruciferous vegetables, and its major in vivo product 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM), have been reported to suppress estrogen-responsive cancers. This effect may be mediated through the modification of cytochrome P450 (CYP) complement and activities leading to estrogen detoxification. We examined the effects of a 4-day treatment of female Sprague–Dawley rats with DIM at 8.4 and 42mg/kg body weight (bwt), on the hepatic CYP protein level, CYP1A1, 1A2, 2B1/2 and 3A1/2 probe activities and CYP-dependent metabolism of 17β-estradiol (E2) and estrone (E1). At 42mg/kg bwt, DIM effected a small increase (2.8-fold) in CYP1A1 activity, and at both dose levels it reduced CYP3A1/2 activity by ∼40%. At the higher dose level, DIM decreased the rates of oxidation of E2 to 4-OH-E2, 4-OH-E1, 6α-OH-E2 and 6(α+β)-OH-E1 by 39, 44, 71 and 60%, respectively, and E1 to 6(α+β)-OH-E1 by 39%. These effects were considerably different from those of I3C reported by us previously. We also examined the effects of DIM and I3C on the hepatic microsomal metabolism of tamoxifen (TAM). Whereas metabolism of TAM was unaffected by DIM, formation of N -desmethyl-TAM (and its presumed derivative) was increased ∼3-fold by I3C at 250mg/kg bwt. Since N -desmethyl-TAM is transformed to a genotoxic metabolite, dietary exposure to I3C may enhance hepatic carcinogenicity of TAM in the rat. The differences between I3C and DIM in CYP-mediated activities and metabolism indicate that DIM is not a proximate intermediate in the mechanism of action of I3C.
Objective measurement of lower extremity function and quality of life after surgical revascularization for critical lower extremity ischemia

Background Outcomes of revascularization for critical limb ischemia (CLI) have historically been patency, limb salvage, and survival. Functional status and quality of life have not been well described. This study used functional and quality of life assessments to measure patient-centered outcomes after revascularization for CLI. Methods The study observed 18 patients (age, 65 ± 11 years) prospectively before and after lower extremity bypass for CLI. Patients completed the Short Physical Performance Battery, which measures walking speed, leg strength, and balance, as well as performed a 6-minute walk, and calorie expenditure was measured by an accelerometer. Isometric muscle strength was assessed with the Muscle Function Evaluation chair (Metitur, Helsinki, Finland). Quality of life instruments included the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey and the Vascular Quality of Life questionnaire. Patients' preoperative status was compared with 4-month postoperative status. Results Muscle Function Evaluation chair measurements of ipsilateral leg strength demonstrated a significant increase in knee flexion from 64 ± 62 N to 135 ± 133 N ( P = .038) and nearly significant increase in knee extension from 120 ± 110 N to 186 ± 85 N ( P = .062) and ankle plantar flexion from 178 ± 126 N to 267 ± 252 N ( P = .078). In the contralateral leg, knee flexion increased from 71 ± 96 N to 149 ± 162 N ( P = .028) and knee extension from 162 ± 112 N to 239 ± 158 N ( P = .036). Absolute improvements were noted in 6-minute walk distance, daily calorie expenditure, and individual domains and overall Short Physical Performance Battery scores, and upper extremity strength decreased, although none were significant. The Vascular Quality of Life questionnaire captured significant improvement in all individual domains and overall score ( P P = .011) on the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey. Conclusions Despite lack of statistical improvement in most functional test results, revascularization for CLI results in improved patient-perceived leg function. Significant improvements in isometric muscle strength may explain the measured improvement in quality of life after revascularization for CLI.
Blocking late cholesterol biosynthesis inhibits the growth of transplanted Morris hepatomas (7288CTC) in rats

Abstract The conversion of 7-dehydrocholesterol to cholesterol is the last reaction in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway catalyzed by the microsomal enzyme, 7-dehydrocholesterol-delta 7-reductase. We studied whether malignant tumor growth that depends on cholesterol could be slowed by inhibiting late cholesterol biosynthesis. The inhibitor 7-dehydrocholester-delta 7-reductase, BM 15.766 alone, or in combination with 2% cholesterol was fed to 20 male Buffalo rats for 2 weeks immediately after Morris hepatoma 7288CTC was implanted in both flanks. Tumor weights were compared and sterol composition, hepatic hydroxymethyl glutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase activity, and low- density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor binding in the tumor were correlated with those in the liver. In the plasma of rats treated with BM 15.766, cholesterol levels dropped 75% and the precursor, 7-dehydrocholesterol rose substantially. Tumor weights were 43% less (P
Ancient Christianity in Cyberspace: A Digital Media Lab for Students

“Ancient Christianity, Ancient Cities – and Cyberspace?” was a teaching experiment combining the study of theology, religion, history, and new computer technologies. The course included both a regular class meeting and a concurrent digital media lab. All student assignments were digital. Students came in with a wide variety of technical knowledge and backgrounds in classical and religious studies. In addition to learning about the history and theology of early Christianity, students became critical learners of technology within the ideal of a liberal arts education.
Belligerence: its frequency and correlates in a psychiatric emergency room population.

Abstract A group of 314 patients coming to a psychiatric emergency room was studied by means of a structured clinical interviewing containing 819 items. A portion of these items concerned belligerent thoughts, verbalizations, or acts. Males were more belligerent than females, younger patients were more belligerent than older ones, but there was no difference in belligerence between blacks and whites. The only psychopathology associated with increased rates of belligerence was antisocial personality and/or alcoholism. There was no relationship demonstrated between belligerent and self-destructive behavior. It is suggested that systematic clinical interviews of clinical populations, follow-up studies, and family studies may be a productive way in which to study belligerent behavior, in addition to demographic studies confined only to serious violence that has already occurred.
The effects of substrate temperature on the superconducting properties of Tl2Ca2Ba2Cu3O10 films sputter-deposited from stoichiometric oxide targets

Abstract The annealing characteristics and the superconducting properties of Tl 2 Ca 2 Ba 2 Cu 3 O 10 thin films sputter-deposited onto yttrium- stabilized ZrO 2 substrate at up to 500°C from two stoichiometric oxide targets are reported. The films deposited at 400–500°C were found to require a lower post-annealing temperature than the films deposited at lower temperatures to attain the highest T c superconducting state, due to a more pronounced Ba diffusion toward the substrate as indicated by their secondary ion mass spectrometry depth profiles. The highest T c achieved tends to degrade with increasing substrate temperatures, a zero resistance T c of 121 and ≈90 K, respectively, being observed for the films deposited at ∼-ambient temperature and at 500°C. The formation of the highest T c phase (Tl 2 Ca 2 Ba 2 Cu 3 O 10 ) generally is associated with a sheet type of crystal growth morphology with smooth and aligned surfaces which can be obtained only from the films capable of sustaining prolonged annealing at 900°C. Annealing at lower temperatures (≈860°C) results in the formation of rod or sphere type of morphologies with rough and randomly oriented crystals and the lower T c phases such as Tl 2 Ca 1 Ba 2 Cu 2 O 8 .
The preparation of InSb and InAs1−x Sbx by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition

Abstract Epitaxial layers of the compound semiconductors InSb and InAs 1− x Sb x have been prepared by metal organic chemical vapor deposition in a vertical, atmospheric pressure quartz reactor. Trimethylindium (TMI), trimethylantimony (TMSb) and arsine diluted in H 2 were used as the In, Sb and As sources. A temperature range of 400 to 550°C and molar gas phase flow ratios of TMI to the flow of AsH 3 + TMSb of 0.08 to 1.2 were investigated. For 0.05 x ⩽ 1.0 the best surface morphologies were obtained for growth rates
Differential phosphoinositide 3-kinase signaling: implications for PTCA?

coronary revascularization by percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) has an ∼90% success rate immediately posttreatment (5). However, the procedure causes vascular injury by endothelial denudation and stretching of the vascular wall, leading to inward vascular remodeling. Endothelial cell (EC) removal exposes the underlying medial vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) layer to circulating growth factors and inflammatory cytokines, including platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), thrombin, thromboxane A2, and adenosine diphosphate released from accumulating platelets (5). PDGF and thrombin are potent stimuli for VSMC proliferation and migration. Adenosine diphosphate binding to the platelet P2Y12 receptor causes enhanced platelet activation, thereby facilitating further PDGF release, as well as amplification of the response to thromboxane A2 and thrombin, thus playing a central role in thrombus formation. Balloon dilation stretches the vascular wall, resulting in activation of stretch-activated signaling pathways in medial VSMC and the adventitia, which results in further VSMC migration and proliferation. Consequently, vascular injury associated with PTCA often results in reocclusion of the artery, or restenosis, characterized by neointima formation and constrictive inward remodeling mediated by VSMC migration across the internal elastic lamina, VSMC proliferation, and extracellular matrix deposition.
Effects of high-fructose corn syrup and sucrose on the pharmacokinetics of fructose and acute metabolic and hemodynamic responses in healthy subjects

It is unclear whether high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), which contains a higher amount of fructose and provides an immediate source of free fructose, induces greater systemic concentrations of fructose as compared with sucrose. It is also unclear whether exposure to higher levels of fructose leads to increased fructose-induced adverse effects. The objective was to prospectively compare the effects of HFCS- vs sucrose-sweetened soft drinks on acute metabolic and hemodynamic effects. Forty men and women consumed 24 oz of HFCS- or sucrose-sweetened beverages in a randomized crossover design study. Blood and urine samples were collected over 6 hours. Blood pressure, heart rate, fructose, and a variety of other metabolic biomarkers were measured. Fructose area under the curve and maximum concentration, dose-normalized glucose area under the curve and maximum concentration, relative bioavailability of glucose, changes in postprandial concentrations of serum uric acid, and systolic blood pressure maximum levels were higher when HFCS-sweetened beverages were consumed as compared with sucrose-sweetened beverages. Compared with sucrose, HFCS leads to greater fructose systemic exposure and significantly different acute metabolic effects.
Methodological Challenges During 20 Years of Adolescent Research

The purpose of the present article was to highlight the methodological challenges we have experienced in conducting adolescent research for the past 20 years or more. In this article, we describe the methodological issues we have encountered with nonexperimental research designs, sampling, instrumentation, data collection procedures, statistical analyses, and ethical concerns of adolescent research, particularly the process of informed consent. Sharing our experiences with adolescent research can shed light on methodological issues (specifically in this age group) that are not addressed in research textbooks and can provide guidance for other researchers who are interested in developing knowledge relevant to adolescent populations.
Lessons from hypertension trials

Hypertension is a well-established risk factor for stroke, myocardial infarction (MI), and premature cardiovascular death. Even mild elevations of blood pressure (i.e., diastolic blood pressure >90 and <110 mm Hg) yield increased risk. In fact, mild-to-moderate hypertension is more common than severe hypertension and accounts for a greater proportion of the deaths and serious nonfatal vascular events. The treatment goal is to make optimal use of antihypertensive drug therapy while encouraging patients to implement lifestyle changes such as weight loss, sodium restriction, decreased alcohol intake, and increased exercise. Pharmacologic therapy of mild-to-moderate hypertension can significantly reduce the incidence of stroke, MI, coronary artery disease, vascular mortality, and total mortality. Beta blockers and diuretics should continue to be used as first-line therapy until there is direct and reliable evidence from large-scale randomized trials with clinical endpoints for newer agents such as calcium antagonists and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors.
Radiotracers for functional brain imaging

The rapid growth of nuclear medicine 25 years ago was in large part related to the success of brain tumor imaging using radiopharmaceuticals designed to detect changes in the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The success of computed tomography, and more recently nuclear magnetic resonance, in imaging these lesions has all but eliminated the use of radioactive agents for brain tumor detection. But, in recent years there has been a new wave of interest in isotope studies of the brain. The recent emphasis has been on agents which enter the brain across the BBB and are designed to provide functional data ranging from regional perfusion and metabolism to the distribution of binding sites for neuroactive compounds. While none of these new radiopharmaceuticals has yet come into widespread clinical application, the research results already achieved clearly indicate that brain imaging will again be an important aspect of nuclear medicine practice.
Simulation of front end loader bucket–soil interaction using discrete element method

The design of earthmoving equipment requires reliable estimates of resisting forces from the soil or rock to be manipulated. A series of discrete element simulations with polyhedral particles designed to replicate a series of bucket–soil interaction experiments are presented. The experiments involve manipulation of a pile of gravel, consisting of angular and sub-rounded particles, with a prototype of a front end loader bucket. The geometry of the soil pile and the trajectory of the bucket from each experiment are simulated using discrete element method (DEM). A single set of DEM model properties, including inter-particle contact friction angle estimated from the initial configuration of the soil pile prior to the start of the experiments, are used for all simulations. The total soil reaction forces acting on the bucket in both horizontal and vertical directions are calculated from each simulation and are compared to measured forces from the corresponding experiment. The results show both qualitative and quantitative agreement between simulations with polyhedral particles and experiments with angular and sub-rounded particles. The major source of discrepancy is attributed to the large particle sizes in the simulation compared to the experiments. Using smaller particles improves the results and provides a better match with the experiments. Other sources of discrepancy are also discussed. The simulations demonstrate that DEM with polyhedral particles can be used to reliably simulate bucket–soil interaction and to estimate force feedback into earthmoving equipment. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interactions in diatomic dimers involving closed-shell metals.

Interaction energies of dimers containing alkaline earth (Be, Mg, and Ca) metals have been investigated using symmetry-adapted perturbation theory (SAPT) and supermolecular (SM) methods. Also, to enable broader comparisons, some calculations have been performed on the Zn dimer and on the He−Mg dimer. Although all of the investigated metallic atoms have closed electronic shells, the quasidegeneracy of the ground states of these atoms with the lowest-lying excited states leads to convergence problems in theories based on a single-determinant reference state. The main goal of the present work was to establish how the quality of the interaction energies computed using various electronic-structure methods changes across the range of atoms. We show that although the convergence problems become somewhat less severe with the increase of the atomic number, single-determinant-based methods do not provide reliable interaction energies for any of the investigated metallic dimers even at the level of the coupled-clust...
A Review of Family Therapy as an Effective Intervention for Anorexia Nervosa in Adolescents

This review examines family therapy as an effective intervention for Anorexia Nervosa (AN) in adolescents. An electronic and manual literature search was conducted. Studies pertaining to family therapy in the treatment of AN and specifically, the Maudsley Method/Family-Based Treatment were identified. A limited number of randomized control trials exist implicating family therapy. Of the existent studies, methodological limitations pertaining to small, homogeneous sample sizes are evident. Despite the limited number of studies, family therapy appears to illustrate probable efficacy. Additional research and funding are necessary to fully support family therapy in the treatment of AN in adolescents.
Effect of methylprednisolone on radiotherapy of F344 rats with avian sarcoma virus induced gliomas.

We have examined the impact of methylprednisolone acetate (MPA) on survival of F344 rats that were bearing avian sarcoma virus (ASV)-induced gliomas and that were treated optimally with radiotherapy. Toxicity of MPA (dose range of 0.2–5.0 mg/kg × 7 over 3 weeks) was first established in non-tumor bearing rats as assessed by their relative failure to gain weight. Doses of 2.0 or 5.0 mg/kg x 7 caused animals to be 21.8 or 43.9%, respectively, underweight compared with vehicle controls. In rats bearing ASV induced gliomas, treatment with 3 000 cGY (nine fractions over a 3-week period) alone or with 0.2 or 1.0 mg MPA/kg (× 6 during the 3-week radiotherapy course) produced a significantly prolonged survival compared with that of untreated, tumor bearing rats. However, MPA did not enhance survival when given concurrently with radiotherapy; indeed, at the higher of these two doses, median survival of tumor-bearers was slightly less than with radiotherapy alone. This trend towards interference with the beneficial effects of radiotherapy was more pronounced with the highest dose of MPA studied, 5.0 mg/kg body weight × 6. These animals had a median survival time that was significantly less than that of tumor-bearers receiving radiotherapy alone, but not significantly different from untreated rats with gliomas. The possible significance of these observations is discussed.
Calcemic response to parathyroid hormone in renal failure: role of phosphorus and its effect on calcitriol.

Calcemic response to parathyroid hormone in renal failure: Role of phosphorus and its effect on calcitriol. The Calcemic response to parathyroid hormone (PTH) is decreased in renal failure. The reduction of hyperphosphatemia improves the Calcemic response to PTH in animals with advanced renal failure. However, since low calcitriol levels in renal failure may also contribute to the decreased Calcemic response to PTH, the improved Calcemic response observed during the reduction of serum phosphorus may be partially mediated by an incease in serum calcitriol levels. The present study evaluated the Calcemic response to PTH in rats with moderate and advanced renal failure and how this response was modified by a high and a low phosphorus diet. In addition, the effect of a change in dietary phosphorus on calcitriol levels was also evaluated. A 48-hour continuous infusion of 1-34 rat PTH increased the serum calcium level to 18.2 ± 0.4 mg/dl in normal rats, versus 13.7 ± 0.9 and 12.1 ± 0.2 mg/dl in rats with moderate and advanced renal failure, respectively. During the PTH infusion, a high phosphorus diet increased the serum phosphorus and resulted in a reduced Calcemic response to PTH at each level of renal function; respective serum calcium levels were 13.8 ± 0.6 mg/dl in normals, 11.2 ± 0.2 mg/dl in moderate renal failure and 9.6 ± 0.5 mg/dl in advanced renal failure. In normal rats and in rats with moderate renal failure, dietary phosphorus restriction during the PTH infusion increased serum calcitriol levels. In rats with advanced renal failure, serum calcitriol levels were lower than in the other two groups and were not affected by changes in dietary phosphorus. In an additional group of rats, parathyroidectomy corrected the Calcemic response to PTH, suggesting that resistance to the Calcemic action of PTH in renal failure requires the presence of circulating levels of PTH. In conclusion, a decreased Calcemic response to PTH was present not only in advanced renal failure but also in moderate renal failure. This abnormal response to PTH appears to be multifactorial. Phosphorus restriction improved the Calcemic response to PTH and this effect could have been in part due to higher values of calcitriol; however, in advanced renal failure, calcitriol levels were not influenced by dietary phosphorus, and thus, the increased Calcemic response to PTH induced by phosphorus restriction was independent of calcitriol. Finally, down regulation of bone receptors for PTH appears to play a major role in the decreased Calcemic response to PTH in renal failure.