cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Development of hamster tracheal epithelium: IV. Cell proliferation and cytodifferentiation in the neonate

The development of the tracheal epithelium was studied in neonatal hamsters beginning on the day of birth (day 1) and ending on day 8. Morphological changes were characterized and the proportions of cells (basal, secretory, ciliated) and mitotic indices were quantified along dorsal and ventral epithelial surfaces. Cellular proportions were stable throughout the week but the makeup of the dorsal and ventral epithelia was different. The ventral epithelium was composed of about 59% secretory cells, 39% basal cells, and 2% ciliated cells, whereas the dorsal epithelium was composed of about 52% secretory cells, 32% basal cells, and 16% ciliated cells. Mitotic indices were generally less than 1% and mitotic activity in secretory cells predominated proportionate to the ratios of secretory cells and basal cells in dorsal and ventral epithelia. During the first postnatal week changes occurred that were related to the maturation of basal cells and secretory cells. Glycogen was rapidly lost from both cell types during the first part of the week and the lateral cell membranes became increasingly complex. Apical microvilli had formed in the secretory cells by day 2 and hemidesmosomes were well developed in the basal cells. Rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum membranes developed rapidly in the secretory cells, and mucous granules were abundant in some cells on days 4-8, especially in the ventral epithelium between the cartilage rings. The study shows that shifts in the proportions of basal, secretory, and ciliated cells do not occur in dorsal or ventral tracheal epithelium during the first postnatal week but the basal cells and secretory cells undergo rapid cytodifferentiation and functional maturation at this time.
Unified Citation Management and Visualization Using Open Standards: The Open Citation System

Scientific research is hindered when there are artificial barriers preventing efficient and straightforward sharing of bibliographic information. In todayâ€™s computing world, the barriers take the form of incompatible bibliographic formats and constraining operating system and vendor dependencies. These incompatible platforms isolate the respective camps. In this paper, we demonstrate and discuss a new approach to unify citation management, called the Open Citation System (OCS). OCS uses open XML standards and Java component technologies. By providing converter tools to migrate citations to a centralized â€ hubâ€ in BiblioML format (an XML tag set based on the UniMARC standard), we then make use of XML Topic Maps to provide an extensible framework for visualization. We take as an example the ACM Classification Code and show how the OCS system displays citations in a convenient focus + context hyperbolic tree interface. We conclude by discussing future directions planned to extend the OCS system and how open citation management can supply an important piece in our inexorable march towards a worldwide digital library.
Development of a biological scaffold engineered using the extracellular matrix secreted by skeletal muscle cells

The performance of implantable biomaterials derived from decellularized tissue, including encouraging results with skeletal muscle, suggests that the extracellular matrix (ECM) derived from native tissue has promising regenerative potential. Yet, the supply of biomaterials derived from donated tissue will always be limited, which is why the in-vitro fabrication of ECM biomaterials that mimic the properties of tissue is an attractive alternative. Towards this end, our group has utilized a novel method to collect the ECM that skeletal muscle myoblasts secrete and form it into implantable scaffolds. The cell derived ECM contained several matrix constituents, including collagen and fibronectin that were also identified within skeletal muscle samples. The ECM was organized into a porous network that could be formed with the elongated and aligned architecture observed within muscle samples. The ECM material supported the attachment and in-vitro proliferation of cells, suggesting effectiveness for cell transplantation, and was well tolerated by the host when examined in-vivo. The results suggest that the ECM collection approach can be used to produce biomaterials with compositions and structures that are similar to muscle samples, and while the physical properties may not yet match muscle values, the in-vitro and in-vivo results indicate it may be a suitable first generation alternative to tissue derived biomaterials.
Finding bounds applied to serial dilution experiments

A method of finding bounds for a parameter in a sum of similar functions is introduced. Such bounds can help an iteration procedure to estimate the parameter. This method applies to the equations for finding maximum likelihood estimates of concentration for a serial dilution experiment. For serial dilution experiments these bounds are calculated as an example of the method.
Eurasian mammal biochronology: an overview

Abstract Late Cenozoic Eurasian mammal biochronology has achieved a new and higher level of resolution. This has been accomplished by correlation of Eurasian mammal biochronology with an independent time frame, the Geomagnetic Polarity Time Scale (GPTS). The result is a tentative calibration for MN zones and their boundaries for the late Miocene, Pliocene and Pleistocene; spanning MN zones 8 through 17 (Vallesian through Villanyian-Villafranchian), an interval of about 10 my (2 to 12 Ma, more or less). An overview of papers presented in this special issue is organized under the following headings: Paleomagnetism and Biochronology in Spain, Chronologic Resolution of Eurasian Mammal Chronology, and Late Cenozoic Mammal Chronology in Asia (excluding the Siwaliks sequence of southern Asia). The chronologic framework presented in this issue should serve as a reliable temporal setting for late Cenozoic mammal evolution in Europe and Asia; it is not the last word in Eurasian late Cenozoic mammal biochronology, but must be tested and revised as our knowledge advances.
Psychopathology in Adolescents Presenting for Laparoscopic Banding

This study documents psychological problems in obese adolescents seeking bariatric surgery with laparoscopic adjustable gastric band. Depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, anxiety, and bullying were reported frequently. Professionals will need to carefully assess adolescents for high-risk behaviors and provide appropriate follow-up care if these individuals undergo laparascopic banding.
Diagnosis and treatment of backache.

M ANY of the clinical tenets regarding regional low back illnesses are unproven, maybe even unprovable. We are seldom able to ascribe any episode of back illness to a particular back disease.’ The relationship between illness and usage remains undefined’ and few treatment modalities have been shown to be effective. Heuristic or not, these clinical tenets are all we have today. They underlie the judgements upon which we act for the sake of the patient. Herein, we will describe our synthesis of the literature and our approach to the patient with low back pain (LBP). Our judgements are not “right”they are the best we can do. By setting them down, we intend to engender the comparisons, discussions, and controversy that fuel clinical scholarship. At least 70% of us will experience LBP at some time in our lives.3*4 Acute LBP is a selflimited illness. Approximately 40% of patients remit in 1 wk, 60%85% in 3 wk, and 90% or more within 2 rno.& Even when LBP is considered a work-related compensable injury,’ only 10% have prolonged disability lasting more than 6 wk.’ Along with remittency,” LBP is characterized by a striking likelihood of recurrence. Hora14 noted recurrences in 90% of patients who had sought medical care because of LBP. He also found that the likelihood of recurrence is directly correlated with age of onset and severity of initial attack; recurrences are longer lasting. Conversely, the first attack of low back pain is usually the shortest and least severe. Back symptoms begin in the third-fourth decade,3S4*6 peak in incidence in the forties and early fifties, and decline rapidly thereafter. There has been no sex difference in incidence noted. This discussion will focus on regional diseases of the low back, which underlie these chronic intermittent and remittent clinical states. We will set down our approach as internists and rheumatologists to the patient presenting with backache. We will discuss the literature. as it relates to this approach. The format we have chosen is to raise a series of questions we bring to the bedside of such a patient.
Diversity of the pharmacological actions of some tolazoline analogues in human platelets and rat aorta

Tolazoline and two 4'-substituted benzyl analogues, 2-(4'-aminobenzyl) imidazoline (ABI) and 2-(4r-isothiocyanatobenzyl)imidazoline (IBI) were synthesized and evaluated for adrenoceptor activity in human platelets (α2) and rat aorta (α1), respectively. IBI was prepared as an affinity label for α-adrenoceptors and compared with chloroethylclonidine. Tolazoline, IBI, ABI and chloroethylclonidine inhibited the primary and secondary waves of epinephrine-induced human platelet aggregation. In aspirin treated platelets, primary wave aggregatory responses to epinephrine were blocked in a competitive manner by tolazoline, ABI, IBI and chloroethylclonidine giving pA2 values of 6.33, 6.12, 4.71 and 5.70, respectively. Only IBI blocked the aggregation responses to ADP (secondary wave only) arachidonic acid and U46619 (a thromboxane A2 agonist). Arachidonic acid-induced serotonin release and malondialdehyde formation and thrombin-induced release of [3H]arachidonic acid from membrane phospholipids were also blocked by IBI. These data indicate that IBI blocks arachidonic acid release, prostaglandin biosynthesis and the action of thromboxane A2. One hour exposure of aspirin treated platelets with IBI abolished inhibitory effects against epinephrine induced aggregation. In contrast to human platelets, both ABI and IBI produced contractions of rat aorta; however, only the responses to ABI were blocked in a competitive manner by the α-antagonists, phentolamine, prazosin, and SKF 104078. Moreover, idazoxan blocked the stimulatory actions of IBI, cirazoline and phenylephrine on rat aorta. We conclude that (1) these tolazoline analogues produce qualitatively different actions in vascular versus platelets systems; (2) ABI, chloroethylclonidine and tolazoline, unlike IBI are selective competitive antagonists of epinephrine at α2-platelet adrenuceptor sites; (3) the affinity label IBI exhibits nonselective inhibitory actions at various sites in the prostaglandin-dependent pathway of human platelet activation; (4) IBI is neither a highly specific nor long acting affinity label for α2-adrenoceptors in human platelets; and (5) the contractile effects of IBI in rat aorta are mediated mainly by a non-α-adrenoceptor, idazoxan-sensitive mechanism which may represent a functional response associated with recently reported high affinity imidazoline preferring binding sites.
Thermoviscoplastic shear instability and higher order strain gradients

Abstract We examine the role of higher order strain gradients in the instability and localization of deformation during the shearing of a thermoviscoplastic material. We take the point of view that thermal softening is the leading mechanism of instability. A gradient dependent yield condition is assumed in order to stabilize the behavior within the softening regime. It turns out that the critical conditions for both instability and localization are different than those obtained in the absence of higher order strain gradients. Moreover, the thermomechanical constitutive parameters of strain hardening, strain rate sensitivity and thermal softening do not suffice to define the stability regime. In particular, a specific value of strain dependent on the aforementioned thermomechanical coefficients and the control parameter is required in order that loss of stability to occur. Such loss of stability may occur either “locally” through the growth of localized non-uniformities or “globally” throughout the material strip in a catastrophic manner.
CHOLINE ACETYLASE AND CHOLINESTERASE ACTIVITY IN DENERVATED ELECTROPLAX.

Abstract 1. 1. Following denervation of the Sachs electric organ of Electrophorus, choline acetylase (acetyl-CoA: choline O -acetyl transferase, EC 2.3.1.6) activity decreased about 50% in one week and 90% in four weeks, no activity was detectable after 74–97 days. In the Main electric organ 97 days after denervation choline acetylase activity is less than 1% that of control tissue. The medium for testing choline acetylase activity was improved by varying some of the components. 2. 2. Tested 78 days after denervation cholinesterase activity of the Sachs organ was not significantly decreased. 3. 3. Structural changes were microscopically detectable in the terminal neural innervation of the electroplax as early as 2 days following denervation, while after 20 days there was a virtual absence of nerve fibers. 4. 4. The changes in electrical activity of the denervated cells are discussed in reference to the changes in structure and enzyme activities.
Teaching requesting and rejecting sequences: An important step in early communication programming

1 Abstracted from: Choi, H., O’Reilly, M., Sigafoos, J., & Lancioni, G. (2010). Teaching requesting and rejecting sequences to four children with developmental disabilities using augmentative and alternative communication. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 31, 560–567. Source of funding and disclosure of interest: No source of funding reported, and the original authors of this research report no conflicts of interest. This commentary was edited solely by Dr. Ralf Schlosser because the Choi et al. study was co-authored by Dr. Jeff Sigafoos; hence, Dr. Sigafoos had no involvement in editing or decision-making related to this commentary.
Molecular changes associated with adaptation of human influenza A virus in embryonated chicken eggs

Failure to isolate A/Fujian/411/2002 (H3N2) in embryonated chicken eggs resulted in its absence from the 2003/2004 vaccine. We analyzed the adaptation of this virus in eggs during serial passages in the amniotic then allantoic cavities. Amniotic passage allowed the virus to grow in the allantoic cavity. During adaptation, 6 amino acid substitutions occurred: 4 in HA (G186V, S219F, V226I, V309I) and 2 in NA (E119Q, Q136K). These substitutions allowed binding to SAα2,3Gal- and SAα2,6Gal-containing receptors, conferred SAα2,3Gal specificity, and preserved antigenicity. Two HA substitutions (G186V, V226I) were sufficient to improve growth. Changing 2 NA residues (E119Q, Q136K) did not improve growth, and adaptation did not result in the HA changes H183L, D188Y, and V226A found by others. These findings suggest that viral adaptation in eggs involves multiple strategies. Vaccine manufacture will benefit from increased understanding of adaptation and strategies to improve human influenza A virus replication in eggs.
Energy systems modelling to support key strategic decisions in energy and climate change at regional scale

Abstract The evidence of relationships between climate change induced by greenhouse gases of anthropogenic origin, and energy-economic issues (inappropriate use of fossil fuels and technologies, uncertainty in fuels price and demand trends, etc.) asks for the adoption of a holistic approach in order to re-orient the anthropogenic activities’ system towards a configuration that harmonizes environmental protection, economic growth and security of energy supply. In this framework, energy system sustainability represents one of the major challenge the EU is facing and its implementation passes through a path of coordinate actions carried out by local governments in which objectives of sustainable development become integral part of strategic programming. The aim of this research is to provide local administrations with an analytical support tool to guide key strategic decisions in energy and climate planning on the medium-long term, assessing the possible role of local energy systems in the achievement of sustainable objectives at national/European scale. This paper focuses on the implementation of a partial equilibrium TIMES-generated model in a real case study, the regional energy system of Basilicata region (Southern Italy). First, it describes the adopted methodology. Second, it is provided a step-by-step description and characterisation of the reference energy system and the model’s data input which represents the first step for an in-depth knowledge of the present energy system on which to build effective and sustainable local energy and climate plans.
Interruptions to Cultural Life Scripts Cancer Diagnoses, Contextual Age, and Life Narratives

Age serves as a basis for assigning status and regulating social interaction across all societies. Members of the cultural group socialize new members into the rules and roles that are associated w...
Engineering Aspects of ECMO Technology

The primary areas of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) technology with engineering components are: biomaterials, oxygenator design, ECMO physiology and total system design. The evolution of ECMO has been largely empirical, with many innovations introduced directly from clinical experience and observation. Major advances are needed in both materials ans oxygenator design if current hematologic hazards are to be reduced. Optimization of ECMO systems has not been attempted in any systematic way because the basic physiology is not well enough understood to define the rationales for optimum control and management strategies. Once these strategies have been developed and tested, currently available automation technology can be applied to make the ECMO system system simpler and safer for clinical use.
A critical analysis of the information obtained from hay-fever sufferers

Abstract This review of the information given by those with pollen disease may be summarized as follows: 1.1. Any race or nationality may have pollen disease. 2.2. Definite symptoms of pollen disease may appear at any age. Fifty-eight per cent of those studied here were below twenty years of age. 3.3. Seventy-two per cent of those studied have only one type of pollen disease; 7 per cent have grass pollen symptoms only; 65 per cent have weed pollen symptoms only; and 28 per cent have both grass and weed pollen symptoms. 4.4. Seven per cent of those studied suffered from some acute illness just before the first symptom of pollen disease appeared. 5.5. Ten per cent of those studied had some surgical operation about the nose or throat just before the first symptom of pollen disease appeared. 6.6. Typical bronchial asthma occurred in 54 per cent of those studied. 7.7. Food sensitizations are found in many of pollen disease sufferers. 8.8. Thirty per cent of those studied have relatives with symptoms of allergy. 9.9. Massive exposure to pollens may be an important factor in precipitating pollen disease. In closing I wish to make a plea for the more careful study of those who suffer from pollen disease.
LH & FSH RESPONSES TO LRF IN GONADAL DYSGENESIS (GD) AFTER ETHINYL ESTRADIOL (EE)

Subjects with GD have elevated LH & FSH and achieve greater rise in both after LRF (Silver, Yen 1973). Estrogens exert inhibitory action on FSH & LH release (Yen et al 1972). To ascertain an effect of estrogen on LH and/or FSH to LRF in GD, 8 females 7-20 yrs, were studied; 4 XO, 1 XO/XY, constitutional delay, hypopituitarism, normal female. LRF, 50-100 ugm IV, was followed by 0.1 mgm EE daily 3-7 days, with 1-7 days off EE prior to second LRF test. In 3 young XO GD, 7 days EE decreased basal FSH (mean 17.6 mIU/ml before EE, 6.1 after EE) and the FSH peak to LRF (mean FSH peak 64.1 before EE, 16.1 after); LH was not significantly affected. With 3 days EE, a 7 yr. XO/XY had no change in LH, FSH responses. An older XO had an LH rise to LRF after 3 days EE, with a decreased FSH responsiveness. LH levels with LRF (after EE) were decreased in a normal female and constitutional delay. The younger child with GD lacks ovarian feedback mechanism and may have chronic endogenous secretion of LRF which induces pubertal LH response, as shown in these studies. LH & FSH responses to EE varied with age.
Total knee arthroplasty: muscle impairments, functional limitations, and recommended rehabilitation approaches.

Synopsis The number of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgeries performed each year is predicted to steadily increase. Following TKA surgery self-reported pain and function improve, though individuals are often plagued with quadriceps muscle impairments and functional limitations. Postoperative rehabilitation approaches either are not incorporated or incompletely address the muscular and functional deficits that persist following surgery. While the reason for quadriceps weakness is not well understood in this patient population, it has been suggested that a combination of muscle atrophy and neuromuscular activation deficits contribute to residual strength impairments. Failure to adequately address the chronic muscle impairments has the potential to limit the long-term functional gains that may be possible following TKA. Postoperative rehabilitation addressing quadriceps strength should mitigate these impairments and ultimately result in improved functional outcomes. The purpose of this paper is to describe...
The origin of carbonaceous matter in pre-3.0 Ga greenstone terrains: A review and new evidence from the 3.42 Ga Buck Reef Chert

Abstract The geological record of carbonaceous matter from at least 3.5 Ga to the end of the Precambrian is fundamentally continuous in terms of carbonaceous matter structure, composition, environments of deposition/preservation, and abundance in host rocks. No abiotic processes are currently known to be capable of producing continuity in all four of these properties. Although this broad view of the geological record does not prove that life had arisen by 3.5 Ga, the end of the early Archean, it suggests a working hypothesis: most if not all carbonaceous matter present in rocks older than 3.0 Ga was produced by living organisms. This hypothesis must be tested by studies of specific early geological units designed to explore the form, distribution, and origin of enclosed carbonaceous matter. The carbonaceous, environmentally diverse 3416 Ma Buck Reef Chert (BRC) of the Barberton greenstone belt, South Africa, provides an opportunity for such a study. Upward facies progressions in the BRC reflect deposition in environments ranging from shallow marine evaporitic brine ponds to a storm- and wave-active shelf to a deep, low-energy basinal setting below storm wave base. Abundances and ratios of Al2O3, Zr, TiO2, and Cr track inputs of various types of volcaniclastic and terrigenous clastic materials. In particular, Zr/Al2O3 and Zr serve as proxies for concentration of windblown dust and, indirectly, as proxies for sedimentation rate. Cu, Zn, Ni, and FeO were concentrated in the most slowly deposited transitional and basinal sediments, inconsistent with a hydrothermal setting but consistent with a normal marine setting. The distribution of microfacies defined by associations and layering of clastic, ferruginous, and carbonaceous grains correlates with facies transitions. Fine carbonaceous laminations, which occur only in shallow platform settings, represent photosynthetic microbial mats. These were ripped up and the debris widely redistributed in shallow and deep water by waves and storms. The isotopic composition of carbonaceous matter ranges from − 35‰ to − 30‰ in shallow-water settings and to − 20‰ in deep-water units. The heavier δ13C in deep-water carbonaceous matter is thought to reflect microbial processing, possibly by fermentation and methanogenesis, of organic matter originally produced in shallow water. Hydrothermal origins for BRC carbonaceous matter are clearly excluded by the inferred depositional setting of the rocks as a whole, an inference supported by field, petrographic, and geochemical analysis. We suggest that the biological model proposed here for BRC carbonaceous matter is the best currently available. The hypothesis that “at least some carbonaceous matter present in rocks older than 3.0 Ga was produced by living organisms” should be regarded as likely until extraordinary contradictory evidence is presented.
A STUDY OF DYNAMIC IMPACT LOAD EFFECTS DUE TO RAILROAD WHEEL PROFILE ROUGHNESS

SUMMARY Railroad wheel tread radial profile (runout) errors produce high dynamic loads at the wheel/rail interface that can often exceed 400 kN in peak amplitude. These impact loads are propagated Into the bogie com ponents (bearings, suspension) and into the track structure, where fatigue and fracture damage can occur. Studies have been conducted to measure the loads at the rail, to measure the wheel profiles, and to validate a mathematical vehtcle/track interaction model, using the wheel profiles as geomtry inputs to the model. The effects of structural bending modes on model results have been explored in an effort to provide an accurate and dependable simulation.
Dissecting the video sensing landscape

Complex heterogeneous sensor networks that include both traditional scalar and richer video data are becoming possible. With such technologies comes the task of making them useful to the applications that rely on them. Unfortunately, such applications are extremely diverse in the interaction requirements of the system components. This paper argues that the system software for such sensor systems needs to balance optimization for performance and providing a flexible interface that can be tailored to the requirements of the user application. We propose Cascades, a cascading filter mechanism that can allow users to quickly compose and re-task diverse sensor systems (which include both scalar and video-based sensors) with highly optimized application-specific algorithms.
Mercury speciation by X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy and sequential chemical extractions: A comparison of speciation methods

Determining the chemical speciation of mercury in contaminated mining and industrial environments is essential for predicting its solubility, transport behavior, and potential bioavailability as well as for designing effective remediation strategies. In this study, two techniques for determining Hg speciation--X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy and sequential chemical extractions (SCE)--are independently applied to a set of samples with Hg concentrations ranging from 132 to 7539 mg/kg to determine if the two techniques provide comparable Hg speciation results. Generally, the proportions of insoluble HgS (cinnabar, metacinnabar) and HgSe identified by XAFS correlate well with the proportion of Hg removed in the aqua regia extraction demonstrated to remove HgS and HgSe. Statistically significant (>10%) differences are observed however in samples containing more soluble Hg-containing phases (HgCl2, HgO, Hg3S2O4). Such differences may be related to matrix, particle size, or crystallinity effects, which could affect the apparent solubility of Hg phases present. In more highly concentrated samples, microscopy techniques can help characterize the Hg-bearing species in complex multiphase natural samples.
A Reply to Jennings.

M. Kent Jennings' admirable comment on my article disputes three fundamental points. Jennings first attacks my "critical assumption" that American education fails to socialize democratic values. He next questions my discussion of the "basic shape of schooling." Last, he argues that weaknesses in the school's transmission of democratic values should not be attributed to a conflict between democratic values and the basic shape of schooling. Let me address these problems in order.
Guanidine hydrochloride inhibits Hsp104 activity in vivo: a possible explanation for its effect in curing yeast prions.

The presence of millimolar concentrations of guanidine hydrochloride (Gdn-HCl) in growth media causes efficient loss of the normally stable [PSI + ] element from yeast cells. Although it has become common practice to include 5 mm Gdn-HCl in growth media to cure [PSI + ] and other prions of yeast, the biochemical mechanism by which it cures is unknown. We find that 5 mm Gdn-HCl significantly reduces Hsp104-mediated basal and acquired thermotolerance. Gdn-HCl also reduced the ability of Hsp104 to restore activity of thermally denatured luciferase in vivo. The abundance of Hsp104 was not reduced in cells grown in the presence of Gdn-HCl, ruling out negative effects on expression or stability of Hsp104. We therefore conclude that Gdn-HCl inhibits Hsp104 activity in vivo. Since replication of yeast prions is dependent on Hsp104, our results suggest that Gdn-HCl cures prions by inhibiting Hsp104 activity.
Effects of ethyl alcohol on cardiac output and its distribution in the rat.

Summary and conclusions(1) Ethyl alcohol does not influence cardiac output of the rat in doses of 5 ml of 20% by volume solution in 200-250 g rats. (2) Blood flow values to the major organs calculated from the fractional uptake of Rb86 or iodoantipyrine (I131) show the following: cutaneous blood flow (considering the skin as a whole) hepatic arterial inflow, portal flow other than splenic, and bronchial blood flow are unaffected by alcohol; coronary blood flow is increased 31%; renal blood flow is reduced 32%; cerebral blood flow is 90% greater in the alcohol treated than in the pentobarbitalized animal.
Difference of regeneration potential between healthy and diseased liver.

Abstract Background We sought to evaluate total and segmental liver regeneration by comparing preoperative computed tomographic (CT) volumetry and CT volumetry on postoperative day (POD) 7 after a right hepatectomy, in patients with various status and surgical indications. Method We included 36 patients who underwent right lobectomy for living donor liver transplantation (healthy group), and 29 for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment (disease group). All of the disease group patients were Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) class A. The regeneration of lateral, medial segment and total remnant liver volumes were assessed on POD 7 using a CT-based program. Total volumes and segmental volumes were measured for total liver, future liver remnant (FLR), and liver remnant. We calculated total and segmental early regeneration indexes, defined as [(VLR−VFLR)/VFLR] × 100, where VLR is volume of the liver remnant and VFLR is volume of the FLR. Result The VLR at POD 7 showed a 72.9% increase in volume among the healthy versus 55% in the disease group, (P = .012) In the disease group, segmental volume and regeneration indexes were also significantly lower than among the healthy group: 59.0% versus 46.9% in the medial and 86.8% versus 57.7% in the lateral segment (P = .023 and P Conclusion The volume regeneration potential in diseased livers is significantly lower than that of a normal, healthy liver. So, we must consider a patient's liver status and volume profile before an extensive liver.
An updated T-series thermocouple measurement system for high-accuracy temperature measurements of the MMT primary mirror

Starting in 2009, MMTO began design and installation of a new set of electronics to measure a set of radiallydistributed type T thermocouples installed after the primary mirror polishing was completed. These thermocouples are arranged in both single measurement points and as thermopiles for differential temperature sensing. Since the goal of the primary mirror temperature control system is to minimize mirror seeing and mirror figure errors induced by temperature variation across the primary mirror, it depends on excellent accuracy from the temperature sensing system. The new electronics encompass on-board cold-junction compensation, real-time ITS-90 curve fitting, and Ethernet connectivity to the data servers running in the MMTO software infrastructure. We describe the hardware design, system wiring, and software used in this system.
Mutation Distribution in Expanded Screening for Cystic Fibrosis: Making Up the Balance in a Context of Ethnic Diversity

Cystic fibrosis (CF)2 (OMIM 219700) is a serious autosomal recessive condition that primarily affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and reproductive organ systems. Its pathophysiology is due to dysfunctional regulation of chloride ion channels precipitated by mutations in the CFTR [cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (ATP-binding cassette sub-family C, member 7)] gene (OMIM *602421). CF is typically associated with considerable morbidity and a reduced life expectancy, although phenotypic variability is the norm. This variation is largely due to differences in the combination of underlying molecular defects, but it also stems from the effects of modifying genes, the environment, and complications (1). At one end of the phenotypic spectrum, affected individuals may have very mild manifestations that are isolated to single organ systems, whereas the disease at the other end involves an early demise (2). CF affects populations across the globe but is most common in northern European whites (approximately 1 in 2500 individuals) and in Ashkenazi Jews (approximately 1 in 2270) (3–5). In the ethnically diverse population of the US, CF is diagnosed in approximately 1 in 3900 individuals (6). The Cystic Fibrosis Genetic Analysis Consortium database includes 1865 CFTR sequence variants (7). Of these variants, p.F508del is the most common mutation; it accounts for nearly two-thirds of the mutations overall. The remaining alleles, many of which are rare, are widely distributed, predominantly in the coding sequence, and demonstrate striking heterogeneity. Both the spectrum and the frequency of individual CFTR sequence changes vary considerably among different ethnic/geographic populations, although much remains to be learned about CFTR mutations in US minorities (8, 9). This situation primarily reflects the fact that these populations have not yet been studied as thoroughly as whites; however, it may also be due in part to the possibility that mutations not typically identified by …
Stability of Magnetic Bearing-Rotor Systems and the Effects of Gravity and Damping

New and general stability criteria are developed for magnetic bearing-rotor systems under practical conditions of system operation and failure based on the Lyapunov second (direct) method. The unperturbed (fully nonlinear) stability of a conventional magnetic bearing-rotor configuration is analyzed for zero gravity; these results are shown to apply with gravity, based on observed similarities of the nonlinear Lagrangian equations. In addition to known results for stability and instability, the system can be stable when a magnetic bearing fails (has negative stiffness), but the net stiffness is still positive. A complete set of sufficient conditions are derived. This temporary stability depends upon inherent gyroscopic forces and is lost when dissipative forces are introduced. However, even with damping the gyroscopic forces improve the system's relative stability. The results are applicable to other gyroscopic systems.
Catalytic oxidation of dimethyl sulfide with ozone : Effects of promoter and physico-chemical properties of metal oxide catalysts

Abstract This study reports improved catalytic activities and stabilities for the oxidation of dimethyl sulfide (DMS), a major pollutant of pulp and paper mills. Ozone was used as an oxidant and activities of Cu, Mo, Cr and Mn oxides, and mixed metal oxides supported on γ-alumina, were tested over the temperature ranging from 100 to 200 °C. The best catalytic activity was obtained over 10 wt.% CuO-10 wt.% MoO 3 supported on γ-Al 2 O 3 with 100% DMS conversion and high selectivity (≈96%) towards complete oxidation products such as CO 2 and SO 2 . The addition of molybdenum to the CuO/γ-Al 2 O 3 significantly enhanced the selectivity of the reaction towards complete oxidization products indicating that MoO 3 acts as a good promoter when used with CuO. Catalyst characterization by XRD, TPR and NH 3 -TPD analyses suggested that these promoting effects are due to the formation of Cu 3 Mo 2 O 9 and CuMoO 4 species on CuO-MoO 3 /γ-Al 2 O 3 , and also a substantially higher quantity of acid sites and a stronger acid strength in CuO-MoO 3 /γ-Al 2 O 3 than CuO/γ-Al 2 O 3 catalyst. This study also reports the optimization of reaction parameters and effects the catalyst physico-chemical properties have on the catalytic activity.
Determination of betaxolol and its metabolites in blood and urine by high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorimetric detection.

Analytical methods for the determination of betaxolol and two of its metabolites in blood and urine are described. Betaxolol, alpha-hydroxybetaxolol, and the acid metabolite were extracted, with over 65% efficiency, from biological samples by liquid-liquid extraction methods. Analysis was performed using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorimetric detection. N,N-Dimethyloctylamine (0.005 M) was used to improve the chromatography of betaxolol and alpha-hydroxybetaxolol, while acetic acid (1%) was used for the acid metabolite. An excitation wavelength of 200 nm was found to produce the best detector response. Linear standard curves were obtained for all three compounds with detection limits (signal-to-noise ratio = 3) varying between 1 and 10 ng/ml. The coefficients of variation of the determination for all three compounds in blood and urine varied between 3.0 and 8.7%. The metabolism of betaxolol was studied in twelve healthy male subjects. The amounts (mean +/- S.D.) of betaxolol, alpha-hydroxybetaxolol and the acid metabolite renally excreted in the first 48 h after intravenous administration of 10 mg of betaxolol hydrochloride are 17.1 +/- 6.2, 0.4 +/- 0.1 and 14.5 +/- 3.7%, respectively, of the administered dose.
Chance or choice--why not pick our children's gender?

(2001). Chance or Choice - Why Not Pick Our Children's Gender? The American Journal of Bioethics: Vol. 1, No. 1, pp. 33-34.
Distribution of integrins and their ligands in the trunk of Xenopus laevis during neural crest cell migration.

We have examined the distribution in Xenopus embryos of β1 subunits of integrin, as recognized by cross-reactive antibodies against the avian integrin beta1 subunit. These antibodies recognize a doublet of bands of approximately 120 kD in Xenopus embryos. The distribution pattern of these integrin cell surface receptors was compared with that of two possible ligands, fibronectin and laminin, in the extracellular matrix during the time of neural crest cell migration. Integrin immunoreactivity in the early neurula was observed lightly outlining somite and epidermal cells and the notochord. The integrin immunostaining increased with developmental age and was observed on most cell types in the embryo but was particularly notable in the intersomitic clefts through which motoraxons grow. The immunoreactivity in this region was not, however, wholly on the axon surfaces, since intersomitic integrin remained detectable in embryos in which the neural tube had been ablated. Fibronectin and laminin were more extensively distributed than integrin at all stages examined. Immunoreactivity for both was observed around the neural tube, notochord, somites, epidermis, dorsal mesentery, and lateral plate mesoderm. The distribution of laminin and fibronectin around the somites was particularly interesting since it was non-uniform and similar to that of integrin. Strongest staining was observed in the intersomitic clefts, and weakest staining was observed on the medial surface of the somites, which faces the neural tube and notochord. The major differences in distribution pattern between the fibronectin and laminin immunoreactivities were that only fibronectin was detected in the mesenchyme of the dorsal fin. Our results demonstrate that a molecule homologous to avian integrin is present in Xenopus embryos during neural crest cell migration and motoraxon outgrowth. Its presence in the intersomitic clefts and on the surface of many embryonic cell types together with the abundant distribution of its ligands are consistent with a potentially important developmental function in neurite outgrowth and/or muscle development.
Protein Kinase Cθ (PKCθ): A Key Enzyme in T Cell Life and Death

The novel protein kinase C (PKC) isoform, PKC theta, is expressed in a relatively selective manner in T lymphocytes (and muscle). Recent analysis of this PKC isotype in T cells and the characterization of PKC theta-deficient mice revealed important clues about its function and regulation. PKC theta does not have an obvious role in T cell development, but it is essential for the activation of mature T cells. The requirement of PKC theta for T cell activation, proliferation and cytokine production reflects the essential role of this isotype in inducing signaling pathways leading to the activation of the transcription factors AP-1 and NF-kappa B in a T cell-specific manner. A unique feature of PKC theta is its highly selective translocation to the central region of the immunological synapse (IS) in antigen-stimulated T cells, a property apparently important for its proper signaling functions. This localization implies unique pathway(s) that regulate the translocation and/or activation of this enzyme. Our work suggests that sustained PKC theta membrane translocation and phosphorylation are relatively independent of phospholipase C (PLC) activation and diacylglycerol (DAG) production. Instead, a pathway that requires Vav, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-K), Rac1 and actin cytoskeleton reorganization mediates these events. Additionally, PKC theta provides an important survival signal to T cells. Nevertheless, several questions regarding the function and regulation of PKC theta and the identity of its immediate targets/substrates remain open. Resolution of these questions could open the way to the development of selective PKC theta inhibitors, which may have therapeutic potential in immunological diseases and in cancer.
Free Energy Calculations of Crystalline Hard Sphere Complexes Using Density Functional Theory

Recently developed fundamental measure density functional theory (FMT) is used to study binary hard sphere (HS) complexes in crystalline phases. By comparing the excess free energy, pressure, and phase diagram, we show that the fundamental measure functional yields good agreements to the available simulation results of AB, AB2, and AB13 crystals. Furthermore, we use this functional to study the HS models of five binary crystals, Cu5Zr(C15b), Cu51Zr14(β), Cu10Zr7(ϕ), CuZr(B2), and CuZr2(C11b), which are observed in the Cu–Zr system. The FMT functional gives a well-behaved minimum for most of the hard sphere crystal complexes in the two-dimensional Gaussian parameter space, namely a crystalline phase. However, the current version of FMT functional (White Bear) fails to give a stable minimum for the structure Cu10Zr7(ϕ). We argue that the observed solid phases for the HS models of the Cu–Zr system are true thermodynamic stable phases and can be used as a reference system in perturbation calculations.
Breakdown of the blood brain barrier and blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier is associated with differential leukocyte migration in distinct compartments of the CNS during the course of murine NCC

Brain homeostasis is normally protected by the blood brain barrier (BBB) and the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier (BCB), barriers that function in distinct CNS compartments and consist of different types of blood vessels including pial (subarachnoid spaces, leptomeninges), parenchymal (cerebral cortex) and ventricular vessels. In this study, a mouse model of neurocysticercosis was used to distinguish between changes in the permeability of the BBB and the BCB and determine the association of such alterations on leukocyte infiltration. Mice were intracranially infected with the parasite Mesocestoides corti and sacrificed at various times post infection. Different anatomical areas of infected brain were analyzed by three color immunofluoresence utilizing antibodies against serum proteins to assess brain barrier permeability, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) to detect astrocytes, and specific cell surface markers to determine the subpopulations of leukocytes infiltrating the CNS at particular sites. The results indicate increased permeability of all three types of vessels/structural sites as a result of infection evidenced by serum proteins and leukocyte extravasation but with considerable differences in the timing and extent of these permeability changes. Parenchymal vessels were the most resilient to changes in permeability whereas pial vessels were the least. Choroid plexus vessels of the ventricles also appeared less susceptible to increased permeability compared with pial vessels. In addition, parenchymal vessels appeared impermeable to particular types of immune cells even after extended periods of infection. Additionally, alterations in reactive astrocytes juxtaposed to blood vessels that exhibited increased permeability displayed increased expression of cytokines known to regulate brain barrier function. The results suggest that access of leukocytes and serum derived factors into the infected brain depend on several parameters including the anatomical area, type of vascular bed, cell phenotype and cytokine microenvironment.
Niemann-Pick disease.

Niemann-Pick disease, originally defined in terms of its histology as a reticuloendotheliosis, is now subdivided on the basis of biochemical and molecular criteria into two separate classes. This categorization has been aided by the discovery of the genes for acid sphingomyelinase, deficient in type
Site specificity of regular health club exercise on muscle strength, fitness, and bone density in women aged 29 to 45 years.

Objective To determine the effect of regular exercise with use of stepper or skier machines on muscle strength, cardiovascular fitness, bone mineral density, and markers of bone turnover in women aged 29 to 45 years. Subjects and Methods We evaluated 14 women: 5 who used a stepper machine for at least 3 hours each week for 2 years, 4 who used a skier machine for at least 3 hours each week for 2 years, and 5 who did not exercise (controls). All women were healthy, had no history of disease or medication use known to affect bone metabolism, and had normal levels of estradiol-17β. Differences between the exercise and control groups were analyzed with the Kruskal-Wallis test. Results No significant differences were noted between the exercise groups and the control group with respect to age, height, total body bone mineral density, calcium intake, and metabolic bone markers. Significant differences were noted between the groups in body weight (stepper vs control, P =.03; skier vs control, P =.02), body mass index (stepper vs control, P =.03; skier vs control, P =.02), Physical Activity Score (stepper vs control, P =.009; skier vs control, P =.01), percentage body fat (stepper vs control, P =.03; skier vs control, P =.02), and maximum oxygen consumption (stepper vs control, P =.009; skier vs control, P =.009). Bilateral hip extensor strength was significantly stronger in the stepper group than in the skier group ( P =.03). Grip strength was significantly stronger in the stepper group than in the skier group (right, P =.01; left, P =.049). Conclusion Although comparable health club exercises can contribute to fitness, their site-specific effect varies. Stepper machines are preferred over skier machines for improving hip extensor strength.