cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
COX-2/PGE2: molecular ambassadors of Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpes virus oncoprotein-v-FLIP

Kaposi's sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV) latent oncoprotein viral FLICE (FADD-like interferon converting enzyme)-like inhibitory protein (v-FLIP) or K13, a potent activator of NF-κB, has well-established roles in KSHV latency and oncogenesis. KSHV-induced COX-2 represents a novel strategy employed by KSHV to promote latency and inflammation/angiogenesis/invasion. Here, we demonstrate that v-FLIP/K13 promotes tumorigenic effects via the induction of host protein COX-2 and its inflammatory metabolite PGE2 in an NF-κB-dependent manner. In addition to our previous studies demonstrating COX-2/PGE2's role in transcriptional regulation of KSHV latency promoter and latent gene expression, the current study adds to the complexity that though LANA-1 (latency associated nuclear antigen) is utilizing COX-2/PGE2 as critical factors for its transcriptional regulation, it is the v-FLIP/K13 gene in the KSHV latency cluster that maintains continuous COX-2/PGE2 levels in the infected cells. We demonstrate that COX-2 inhibition, via its chemical inhibitors (NS-398 or celecoxib), reduced v-FLIP/K13-mediated NF-κB induction, and extracellular matrix (ECM) interaction-mediated signaling, mitochondrial antioxidant enzyme manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) levels, and subsequently downregulated detachment-induced apoptosis (anoikis) resistance. vFLIP expression mediated the secretion of cytokines, and spindle cell differentiation activated the phosphorylation of p38, RSK, FAK, Src, Akt and Rac1-GTPase. The COX-2 inhibition in v-FLIP/K13-HMVECs reduced inflammation and invasion/metastasis-related genes, along with reduced anchorage-independent colony formation via modulating 'extrinsic' as well as 'intrinsic' cell death pathways. COX-2 blockade in v-FLIP/K13-HMVEC cells drastically augmented cell death induced by removal of essential growth/survival factors secreted in the microenvironment. Transformed cells obtained from anchorage-independent colonies of COX-2 inhibitor-treated v-FLIP/K13-HMVEC cells expressed lower levels of endothelial-mesenchymal transition genes such as slug, snail and twist, and higher expression of the tumor-suppressor gene, E-cadherin. Taken together, our study provides strong evidences that FDA-approved COX-2 inhibitors have great potential in blocking tumorigenic events linked to KSHV's oncogenic protein v-FLIP/K13.
Trapezial Metastasis as the First Indication of Primary Non–small Cell Carcinoma of the Lung

Metastasis to the bones of the hand and wrist is not common, and its discovery may reveal an advanced primary tumor located centrally. Clinically, hand metastasis is hard to differentiate from other more common hand pathologies. Its rarity, coupled with a lack of unique clinical manifestations, makes hand and wrist metastasis difficult to diagnose. However, its diagnosis is critical to initiate an appropriate course of treatment. We present a patient in whom lung carcinoma metastasis to the trapezium was definitively diagnosed upon surgical management of symptoms that were consistent with thumb carpometacarpal arthritis.
Total Hip Arthroplasty for Posttraumatic Arthritis after Acetabular Fracture

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) outcomes for posttraumatic arthritis after acetabular fracture have yielded inferior results compared to primary nontraumatic THA. Recently, improved results have been demonstrated using cementless acetabular reconstruction. Thirty-two patients underwent THA for posttraumatic arthritis after acetabular fracture; 24 were treated with open reduction internal fixation, and 8 were managed conservatively. Time from fracture to THA was 36 months (6-227 months). Average follow-up was 4.7 years (2.0-9.7 years). Harris Hip score increased from 28 (0-56) to 82 points (20-100). Six patients required revision. Five-year survival with revision, loosening, dislocation, or infection as an end point was 79%. Survival for aseptic acetabular loosening was 97%. Revision surgery correlated with nonanatomic restoration of the hip center and a history of infection (P < .05). Despite obvious challenges, advances in fracture management and cementless acetabular fixation in THA demonstrate improved results for posttraumatic arthritis following acetabular fracture.
Pathogenesis of Food Allergy in the Pediatric Patient

In the US and other developed countries, food allergy is a growing epidemic in pediatric populations with a substantial impact on health-related quality of life. As such, there are great efforts underway to unravel the mechanisms of oral mucosal tolerance and to better define the factors related to host and allergen exposure that contribute to the aberrant immune response leading to sensitization and clinical food allergy. Although more research is needed to eventually develop targeted treatment and prevention strategies, this review highlights our current understanding of the pathogenesis of IgE-mediated food allergy.
A singular perturbation free boundary problem for elliptic equations in divergence form

In this paper we study the free boundary problem arising as a limit as ɛ → 0 of the singular perturbation problem \({\textrm{div}(A(x)\nabla u) = \Gamma(x) \beta_\varepsilon(u)}\) , where A = A(x) is Holder continuous, βɛ converges to the Dirac delta δ0. By studying some suitable level sets of uɛ, uniform geometric properties are obtained and show to hold for the free boundary of the limit function. A detailed analysis of the free boundary condition is also done. At last, using very recent results of Salsa and Ferrari, we prove that if A and Γ are Lipschitz continuous, the free boundary is a C1,γ surface around \({\mathcal{H}^{N-1}}\) a.e. point on the free boundary.
Graphs that admit square 1-factorizations are hamiltonian Cayley graphs

A square 1-factorization of a graph is a 1-factorization in which the union of any two distinct 1-factors is a disjoint union of 4-cycles. We show that a graph admits a square 1-factorization if and only if it is a Cayley graph with group (ℤ2)n for somen. The rest of the title follows since Cayley graphs of abelian groups are known to be hamiltonian.
Changing forest values and ecosystem management

There is substantial evidence that we are currently in a period of rapid and significant change in forest values. Some have charged that managing forests in ways that are responsive to diverse and changing forest values is the main challenge faced by public forest managers. To tackle this challenge, we need to address the following questions: (1) What is the nature of forest values? That is, can all forest values be reduced to a single dimension, as assumed in utilitarian‐based traditional forestry and economics, or are these values multidimensional and incommensurate? (2) What specific values are involved? (3) What is the structure of forest values? That is, how are they related to each other in value systems? (4) How and why have forest values changed over time? and (5) What do changing forest values imply for ecosystem management approaches? This article discusses key issues related to these questions.
On determining the thermal state of individual atoms in molecular dynamics simulations of nonequilibrium processes in solids

Abstract An ensemble average approach is proposed for determining the temperature and thermal equilibrium state of individual atoms in solids modeled using nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulations (NEMD). The basic assumption of the approach is that the atomic velocity of an atom is the sum of a mean mechanical velocity and a random thermal velocity, which can be separated by performing ensemble average of many realizations of the same ensemble. Mechanical and thermal energy field obtained from the decomposed thermal and mechanical velocity together with the thermal velocity distribution reveal the details of energy transfer in these nonequilibrium processes.
Suspended Multiwall Carbon Nanotube‐Based Infrared Sensors via Roll‐to‐Roll Fabrication

Sensors sensitive to infrared radiation based on multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are prepared. The physical suspension and thermal isolation needed for bolometric sensing are achieved by suspending the MWCNTs on polymer gratings fabricated by roll-to-roll (R2R) methods. The physical suspension of MWCNTs on nanoimprinted polymer gratings reduced the thermal link of tubes to the substrate and resulted in an enhanced bolometric photoresponse for the suspended devices. The performance of the R2R fabricated sensor is in the same range as those made by other previously reported wafer batch mode nanofabrication processes and the approximate detectivity of the IR sensor is found to be 4 × 106 cm Hz1/2/W. The successful R2R sensor fabrication process developed in the present work opens up a new low cost, high volume manufacturing technique for the production of sensors based on 1D nanomaterials.
Predicate transformer semantics of a higher-order imperative language with record subtyping

Abstract Using a set-theoretic model of predicate transformers and ordered data types, we give a total-correctness semantics for a typed higher-order imperative programming language that includes record extension, local variables, and procedure-type variables and parameters. The language includes infeasible specification constructs, for a calculus of refinement. Procedures may have global variables, subject to mild syntactic restrictions to avoid the semantic complications of Algol-like languages. The semantics is used to validate simple proof rules for non-interference, type extension, and calls of procedure variables and constants.
Transventricular albumin absorption in communicating hydrocephalus. Semiquantitative analysis of periventricular extracellular space utilizing autoradiography.

The movement of radioactive labelled albumin (RISA) after intraventricular or intrathecal injection from the cerebral ventricular system into the brain parenchyma has been observed in six dogs with experimental communicating hydrocephalus as well as in a control group. Autoradiography with determination of grain counts per brain-tissue unit was performed to obtain the relation of radiopharmaceutical tissue-concentration versus distance from the ependymal lining. 4 h after injection there was a significant higher tissue-concentration of RISA in the hydrocephalic than in the control group. The distribution in normal animals appears to be consistent with diffusion into the extracellular space of the brain; whereas in hydrocephalic animals intracerebral bulk flow with alteration of the cerebrospinal fluid-brain barrier is suggested.
Attitude determination of Galileo spacecraft from star data

An entirely autonomous attitude determination algorithm has been developed for the dual spin Galileo spacecraft in its mission to Jupiter. A batch mode process is established which identifies three stars within the scanner's field-of-view based on the criteria of intensity and geometry. This is followed by a continuous star acquisition procedure which provides star transit times and a spacecraft spin rate estimate. A least-squares estimator then sequentially determines the spacecraft's attitude from successive star crossings by minimizing an error derived using the necessary condition of star and scanner slit normal orthogonality. Simulation results are presented, showing successful star identification and attitude convergence in the presence of nutation and star transit time uncertainty.
Stochastic Modelling of Drop Coalescence on Non-Porous Substrates for Inkjet Applications

Coalescence between two drops on a substrate is one of the important factors that can affect print quality in inkjet applications. Two stochastic models (constant contant angle mode and constant contact area mode) that consider drop placement error, drop impact, and drop evaporation are proposed for determining the probability of coalescence between adjacently printed drops on nonporous substrates. Experiments are conducted to measure the probability of coalescence with respect to deposition time difference between adjacently printed drops and compared to the predictions of the models. The measured coalescence follows the constant contact angle mode evaporation model during the initial phase of the life of the first drop, which is followed by a mix between the constant contact angle mode and the constant contact area mode models for the remainder of the life of the first drop. This study shows that for probabilities of coalescence between 10 % and 80 % the constant contact angle mode model can be used to determine deposition time difference threshold values for adjacent drops in applications promoting drop coalescence while the constant contact area mode model can be used for applications avoiding drop coalescence. Further efforts are needed to capture the dynamics of the mixed-model evaporation and to more accurately predict larger (greater than 80 %) and smaller (less than 10 %) occurrences of coalescence.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
The use of prostaglandin E1 in a critically ill infant with transposition of the great arteries

there was considerable anxiety associated with pregnancies, an an opinion was developing that affected individuals should not have offspring. In such a setting, genetic counseling can be very useful alleviating familial anxiety. Although the odds for inheritance follow classical dominant models, the expected excellent outcome in such a family can be pointed out, to the immense relief of all concerned.
Intrapartum Nurses’ Experience of Supporting Women Who Anticipate a Preterm Birth

Conclusion/Implications for Nursing Practice The provision of expert-facilitated evidence-based education, guided by the Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services framework, which considers evidence, context, and facilitation, can be an impetus for change in healthcare practice. An innovative educational program tailored to the learning needs of experienced staff nurses can contribute to improvement in evidence-based nursing practice and patient care.
Role of blood mononuclear cells in recanalization and vascularization of thrombi: past, present, and future.

Abstract Recent experimental data suggest a role for blood-borne mononuclear cells, including bone marrow–derived endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in organization, vascularization, and recanalization of thrombi. Older studies have described in detail the in situ structural modifications accompanying these processes. The common themes are (a) involvement of pluripotent mononuclear cells, and (b) proteolytic and/or phagocytic activity of monocytes/macrophages (MCs/Mphs) in modifying the thrombus to a proangiogenic state. In addition to a nurturing function, MCs/Mphs may assist the engraftment of thrombus-trapped or incoming EPCs. The differences between the recanalization potency of venous and arterial thrombi suggest that in addition to the organization of the fibrin meshwork, the cellular composition of the venous thrombi may be responsible for the better recanalization seen in venous clots. These observations set the stage for therapeutic manipulation of organization and recanalization of thrombi, by increasing the MC/Mph and/or EPC content.
A Lookahead Speech Encoding Technique

It is well known that, in a speech communication, variable delivery delays of speech packets pose as much problems as the absolute overall delivery delays. A new speech encoding technique specifically designed to cope with possible losses as well as variable delays is studied assuming a packetized speech transport network. The encoding scheme combined digital representations of speech waveform over two consecutive packet generation intervals. Over a packet generation interval a full representation is transmitted along with a coarse representation of the next packet generation interval. The receiver thus is always equipped with the coarse representation of the next reconstitution period. When a packet is lost on the way or delayed over the reconstitution period, the receiver can utilize the lookahead section of the previous packet to approximate the speech over the next reconstitution period. Experiments with the lookahead encoding is not complete and the outline of the planned experiments will be provided.
Who is LB1? Discriminant analysis for the classification of specimens

Many problems in paleontology reduce to finding those features that best discriminate among a set of classes. A clear example is the classification of new specimens. However, these classifications are generally challenging because the number of discriminant features and the number of samples are limited. This has been the fate of LB1, a new specimen found in the Liang Bua Cave of Flores. Several authors have attributed LB1 to a new species of Homo, H. floresiensis. According to this hypothesis, LB1 is either a member of the early Homo group or a descendent of an ancestor of the Asian H. erectus. Detractors have put forward an alternate hypothesis, which stipulates that LB1 is in fact a microcephalic modern human. In this paper, we show how we can employ a new Bayes optimal discriminant feature extraction technique to help resolve this type of issues. In this process, we present three types of experiments. First, we use this Bayes optimal discriminant technique to develop a model of morphological (shape) evolution from Australopiths to H. sapiens. LB1 fits perfectly in this model as a member of the early Homo group. Second, we build a classifier based on the available cranial and mandibular data appropriately normalized for size and volume. Again, LB1 is most similar to early Homo. Third, we build a brain endocast classifier to show that LB1 is not within the normal range of variation in H. sapiens. These results combined support the hypothesis of a very early shared ancestor for LB1 and H. erectus, and illustrate how discriminant analysis approaches can be successfully used to help classify newly discovered specimens.
Preliminary tests of a new device to monitor orthodontic headgear use

Abstract The orthodontic community has had a long-standing interest in measuring headgear use characteristics. Progress in microelectronics has made it possible to incorporate the electronics for a headgear-monitoring device entirely within the body of an orthodontic headgear force module. A novel headgear-monitoring device was developed recently and subjected to laboratory and clinical testing. Results of these initial tests are described and suggest that the headgear monitor should be able to measure the temporal characteristics of headgear wear, estimate how much force is delivered, detect patient attempts to falsify headgear use, and provide readily accessible feedback to patients, parents, and orthodontists about headgear use.
Race, ethnicity, and pediatric transplantation: unanswered question

To the Editor: I read with great interest the findings reported by Patzer et al.1 This study again identifies that less Hispanic and black patients are receiving living-donor transplants, less likely to be preemptively transplanted,2 and are spending longer duration on dialysis when compared with whites.1, 3 Allograft outcome disparities were seen persistently among those with both higher and lower socioeconomic status, in children who identified with the black race, however, not of Hispanic ethnicity, compared with whites. Further race and detailed ethnicity data of the kidney transplant recipients are not available for review from this study, but raise the following questions: are other minority groups likely to have worse outcomes similar to those included in the black race or better graft outcomes like the Hispanic group in this study. The more detailed data would also help in ensuring avoidance of misclassification, which could lead to inappropriate conclusions, as previous studies addressing pediatric kidney transplants have focused on disparities between white and black children only.4, 5, 6 In addition, we would point out the astonishing differences in graft survival between black deceased-donor recipients compared with Hispanic or white counterparts, particularly at 5 years from transplantation. These findings provide the aim to address additional questions to be further studied, with focus on healthcare cost burden, appointment adherence, and medication adherence, as well as assessing their potential contribution to disparities at both short- and long-term follow-up from transplantation. Identification of these factors would drive specific strategies aimed to eliminate such disparities throughout the transplantation process.
Formation of tidal starting-jet vortices through idealized barotropic inlets with finite length

This paper presents a surface particle image velocimetry study to investigate the dynamics of shallow starting-jet dipoles formed by tidal flow through inlets and their interaction with vorticity formed at the inlet channel lateral boundaries. Vortical structure in the flow field is identified using a local swirl strength criterion evaluated from the two-dimensional flow field. The starting jet dipole vortices and vortices formed as the lateral boundary layers are expelled during flow reversal are characterized by their trajectory, size, and circulation. Using these quantities, a model is developed to predict the size and strength of the expelled lateral boundary layer vortices based on the inlet velocity, channel length, and width of the lateral boundary layer. The expelled boundary layer vortices are found to disrupt the formation of the primary tidal jet dipole through two mechanisms. First, because the boundary layer vortices themselves form a dipole with each half of the starting-jet dipole, the starting-jet vortices are pulled apart and advected away from the inlet mouth early in the tidal cycle, resulting in a reduction in the spin-up time and the amount of vorticity input during starting-jet vortex formation. Second, the advection of each dipole away from the inlet disconnects each starting-jet vortex from the starting jet; hence, the vortices are not fed by fluid in the jet or energized by shear in the jet boundary layers. These influences of the lateral boundary layer on the starting-jet vortices’ formation and propagation are found to be a function of the channel length L, maximum velocity U, and tidal period T, resulting in a predictive value to characterize their trajectory, strength, and evolution.
Human estrogen receptor ligand activity inversion mutants: receptors that interpret antiestrogens as estrogens and estrogens as antiestrogens and discriminate among different antiestrogens

The estrogen receptor (ER) is a transcription factor whose activity is normally activated by the hormone estradiol and inhibited by antiestrogen. It has been found that certain mutational changes in the activation function-2 region in the hormone-binding domain of the human ER result in ligand activity inversion mutants, i.e. receptors that are now activated by antiestrogen and inhibited by estrogen. The ER point mutant L540Q is activated by several antiestrogens (the more pure antiestrogens ICI 164,384 and RU 54,876 or the partial antiestrogen trans-hydroxytamoxifen) but not by estradiol. The presence of the F domain and an intact activation function-i in the A/B domain are required for this activity, as is the DNA-binding ability of the receptor. This inverted ligand activity is observed with several estrogen-responsive promoters, both simple and complex; however, the activating ability of antiestrogens is observed only in some cells, highlighting the important role of cell-specific factors in ligand interpretation. The introduction of two additional amino acid changes close to 540 results in receptors that are still not activated by estradiol but are now able to distinguish between partial antiestrogens (which remain agonistic) and pure antiestrogens (which show a greatly reduced stimulatory activity). These ligand activity inversion mutants remain stable in cells in the presence of the antiestrogen ICI 164,384, as does a related ER mutant receptor that shows the normal, wild type ER ligand activity profile in which ICI 164,384 is transcriptionally inactive. Thus, the presence of adequate levels of mutant ER may be necessary but not sufficient for ICI 164,384 to elicit transcriptional activity. These findings highlight the means by which the carboxyl-terminal region in domain E functions to interpret the activity of a ligand, and they demonstrate that rather minimal changes in the ER can result in receptors with inverted response to antiestrogen and estrogen. Such point mutations, if present in estrogen target cells, would result in antiestrogens being seen as growth stimulators, rather than suppressors, with potentially detrimental consequences in terms of breast cancer treatment with antiestrogens.
Bioaccumulation of vanadium and other trace metals in livers of Alaskan cetaceans and pinnipeds

Concentrations for 38 elements are routinely measured in the marine mammal liver tissues archived in the National Biomonitoring Specimen Bank (NBSB). Results show that hepatic concentrations of vanadium, selenium, silver, cadmium, and mercury are positively correlated with age for beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas) and of vanadium, selenium, cadmium, and mercury with length for ringed seals (Phoca hispada). Many researchers have reported linear correlations of hepatic selenium, cadmium, and mercury with marine mammal age; however, there is only one other report of a linear correlation of hepatic vanadium with marine mammal age. Vanadium levels are at or below detection limits (⩽0.01 μg/g) in liver tissues of U.S. east coast marine mammals from the NBSB but are present at levels ranging from 0.02 to 1.2 μg/g of wet weight in the tissues of Alaskan marine mammals. Although only three bearded seal (Eriganthus barbatus) and three bow-head whale (Balaena mysticetus) liver samples have been analyzed, hepatic vanadium levels also increased with animal size for these species. The presence of relatively high levels of vanadium in the livers of these Alaskan animals may reflect a unique dietary source of vanadium, a unique geochemical source of vanadium, or anthropogenic input to the Alaskan marine environment.
Macrobenthic Distribution within the Sediment along an Estuarine Salinity Gradient

The distribution of the macrobenthic infaunal community within the upper 25 cm of the sediment was studied at 16 stations in the lower Chesapeake Bay. Stations were located from the tidal freshwater to the polyhaline zone of major tributaries (James, York and Rappahannock Rivers) and in the polyhaline portion of the lower bay mainstem. Profiles for total number of individuals, total ash-free dry weight biomass and species encountered with depth were calculated. Except for the deep dwelling bivalve, Macoma balthica, tributary macrobenthic communities had a shallow depth distribution compared to the mainstem sites which were found in generally coarser sediments in the higher salinity region of the estuary.
Volumetric determination of metatarsal robusticity in a few living primates and in the foot ofOreopithecus

A new technique is described for the volumetric determination of metatarsal robusticity. Since volume was substituted for weight of a previously used technique, that technique is applicable to fossilized material. The comparability between the metric and volumetric techniques was tested and found to be sufficiently close to make the two techniques interchangeable. When the volumetric technique was applied to fourOreopithecus metatarsals, their robusticity was found to follow the 1→5 pattern (in which M5 is the least robust metatarsal), a pattern typical for all higher primates but present also inHomo. Their total robusticity was found to be closest toHomo and the gorilla, suggesting the likelihood of a terrestrial habitat forOreopithecus.
Why are workers uninsured? Employer-sponsored health insurance in 1997

ABSTRACT: This study examines the number of workers in firms offering employee health plans, the number of workers eligible for such plans, and participation in employer-sponsored insurance. Data from the February 1997 Contingent Worker Supplement to the Current Population Survey indicate that 10.1 million workers are employed by firms offering insurance but are not eligible. Not all of these workers are eligible for coverage, most often because of hours of work. Our results indicate that 11.4 million workers rejected coverage when it was offered. Of those, 2.5 million workers were uninsured. Workers cited high cost of insurance most often as the primary factor for refusing coverage.
Intraoperative Fluorescence Imaging of Peripheral and Central Nerves Through a Myelin-Selective Contrast Agent

Purpose Patients suffer from complications as a result of unintentional nerve damage during surgery. We focus on improving intraoperative visualization of nerves through the use of a targeted fluorophore and optical imaging instrumentation.
Revealing Cultural Influences Through Cross-Cultural Teaching of Communication Models

This exploratory study argues that teaching a communication model in a cross-cultural situation can reveal cultural influences related to a model's assumptions and instructors' cultural biases as reflected in model teaching materials. Specifically, it presents a narrative case study based on observations gathered when teaching the U.S.-based Rhetoric of Social Intervention (RSI) model to Eastern European graduate students enrolled at a Czech university. Findings suggest that the RSI model provides a useful way of making sense of naming and social change in Eastern European cultures. They also indicate that culture might influence how users in another culture attend to the model. In addition, teaching the model in another culture revealed the possibility of a “perfection” goal underlying cultural ideologies. Finally, the findings highlight the cultural biases potentially inherent in U.S.-based teaching materials.
Ureteral changes in gardner's syndrome simulating retroperitoneal fibrosis

The development of desmoid tumors in patients with Gardner's syndrome may produce ureteral findings on excretory urogram which, by themselves, are indistinguishable from other causes of retroperitoneal fibrosis.
ZrCuSiAs type layered oxypnictides: A bird's eye view of LnMPnO compositions

Abstract This work presents a survey of LnMPnO materials crystallizing in the ZrCuSiAs structural archetype. Tabulated lattice parameter values for a number of LnMPnO compositions are presented along with atomic positions and bond lengths. Using this information a bond valence sum (BVS) analysis is carried out for these compositions. The lanthanoid BVS values agree quite well with Ln3+ in all cases, however the BVS values for the M cations deviate considerably from the expected value of M2+ if only ionic bonding were present. This deviation clearly indicates the covalent nature of M–Pn bonding in these materials and the significance of M–M interactions. The reported physical properties for these materials are also surveyed and arranged according to compositional M cation.
Endoscopic Approach to the Patient with Bile Duct Injury

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is complicated by bile duct injury in 0.3% to 0.6% of cases. These injuries range from simple leaks from the cystic duct stump that can almost always be managed by endoscopic stenting to complex strictures, transections, and even resections of the bile duct, often with concomitant vascular damage leading to ischemia. The management of LC-related biliary injuries requires a multidisciplinary approach involving an endoscopist experienced in the use of ERCP, a skilled interventional radiologist, and a surgeon with specific training in the management of hepatobiliary injuries.
Centrioles of a Human Cancer: Intercellular Order and Intracellular Disorder

A continuous, symmetric, and periodic pattern of long-range spatial order has been observed among the centrioles of both normal and neoplastic cells. Consecutive ultrathin sections of lethal human esophageal cancers have revealed a defect in the centriolar angle with random angularity and random, long, intercentriolar distances.
A gene activated in mouse 3T3 cells by serum growth factors encodes a protein with "zinc finger" sequences

Abstract We have recently identified by cDNA cloning a set of genes that are rapidly activated in mouse 3T3 cells by serum or purified growth factors. Here we report that the cDNA (clone 268) derived from one of these immediate early genes (zif/268) encodes a protein with three tandem "zinc finger" sequences typical of a class of eukaryotic transcription factors. The mRNA of zif/268 is present in many organs and tissues of the mouse and is especially abundant in the brain and thymus tissue. The 5' genomic flanking sequence of zif/268 has sequences related to binding sites for known regulatory proteins, including four sequences that resemble the core of the serum response elements (SREs) upstream of the c-fos and actin genes. The SRE-like sequences could be responsible for the coordinate activation of zif/268 and fos after serum stimulation of 3T3 cells.
Effects of diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) on renal function in the rat

Numerous studies have suggested a role for the nervous system in renal function. Several cholinergic agents have been examined for effects in vivo and in renal slices. Effects mediated through the vascular system and also direct effects have been reported. In this study an irreversible cholinesterase inhibitor, diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) in doses of 1-4 mg/kg, was tested on renal function. A single dose of DFP (2, 3 or 4 mg/kg) caused an increased flow of urine of low osmolality over the 6 h after the administration of the drug with essentially a return to control status by 24 h after either of the lower doses. Twenty-four hours after 4 mg/kg, urine volume was less and urine osmolality greater than control. Renal and brain cholinesterases remained depressed 24 h after DFP. In acute experiments on anesthetized animals, inulin clearance was increased by the lower doses and decreased by the highest dose of DFP. Renal blood flow measured with an electromagnetic flow meter showed a similar dose-response relationship. However, urine flow increased at all doses. The increased urine flow associated with decreased inulin clearance (4 mg/kg) and renal blood flow (3 or 4 mg/kg) suggest a direct effect of DFP on renal tubular function. These effects do not appear to be related to inhibition of cholinesterase.
The role of 111indium-octreotide brain scintigraphy in the diagnosis of cranial, dural-based meningiomas.

Meningiomas are common brain tumors with somatostatin receptors that bind octreotide. We report the use of 111indium-octreotide brain scintigraphy (OBS) for the non-invasive differentiation of meningiomas from other cranial dural-based pathology. A retrospective analysis of our experience with OBS for non-invasive identification of meningiomas was performed. Two neuroradiologists, blinded to clinical data, utilized a standardized grading scheme to define the uptake of octreotide at 6 and 24 h post-administration. The correlation between (18) F-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and octreotide uptake was assessed. The cohort consisted of 50 patients having a mean age of 62.4 years and a median follow-up time of 24 months. Management consisted of biopsy (n = 4); resection (n = 10); observation (n = 16); radiosurgery (n = 21); and external beam radiotherapy (n = 3). OBS was correlated with MRI (n = 50); FDG-PET brain studies (n = 38); histology (n = 14), and angiography (n = 1). In cases where definitive diagnosis could be made, the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictor values for OBS alone were 100; 50; 75; and 100, respectively. OBS provided false positive data in 3 patients (metastasis, chronic inflammation, lymphoma). Use of OBS with MRI to differentiate meningiomas from other lesions was highly significant (P < 0.001). FDG-PET correctly identified malignant pathology with 100% sensitivity and specificity. OBS may increase the diagnostic specificity of conventional MRI when differentiating meningioma from other dural-based pathologies, while the addition of FDG-PET differentiates benign from malignant lesions.
Nanocrystalline titanium aluminide

TiAl has potential of being a strong, light-weight structural material. Nanocrystalline TiAl samples were synthesized by sputtering, particle condensation in inert gas and high-pressure compaction of the powder. Structure and chemical composition of individual grains were investigated by X-ray diffraction, conventional transmission electron microscopy, high resolution electron microscopy and micro-chemical analysis. The grains ranged from 3 to 35 nm in diameter, with most of them measuring less than 10 nm. No ordered intermetallic phase was found. The majority of the grains consisted of disordered hexagonal phase with a composition close to Ti-55 at.% Al.
The Utility of Social Capital in Research on Health Determinants

Social capital has become a popular subject in the literature on determinants of health. The concept of social capital has been used in the sociological, political science, and economic development literatures, as well as in the health inequalities literature. Analysis of its use in the health inequalities literature suggests that each theoretical tradition has conceptualized social capital differently. Health researchers have employed a wide range of social capital measures, borrowing from several theoretical traditions. Given the wide variation in these measures and an apparent lack of consistent theoretical or empirical justification for their use, conclusions about the likely role of “social capital” on population health may be overstated or even misleading. Elements of a research agenda are proposed to further elucidate the potential role of factors currently subsumed under the rubric of “social capital.”
Association of genomewide newborn DNA methylation patterns with maternal and newborn characteristics

Background Epigenetics, such as DNA methylation, plays a major role in development and disease risk. Work in model organisms clearly demonstrates that maternal, gestational, genetic and nutritional factors can greatly influence patterns of DNA methylation and increase the risk of disease. In collaboration with a large longitudinal cohort study of human development from gestation to age three, we examined how maternal age, maternal blood nutrient levels and genetic variation are related to neonatal genome-wide DNA methylation patterns.
The electrophysiologic effects of enoximone in patients with preexisting ventricular tachyarrhythmias.

Abstract Electrophysiologic and hemodynamic effects of intravenous enoximone were studied in 15 male patients, mean age 62.2 years, with New York Heart Association classes II to IV congestive heart fallure (coronary artery disease in 10 and idlopathic dllated cardiomyopathy in five patients; mean ejection fraction, 0.19). All patients had spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmias: eight had sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT), one had ventricular fibrillation, and six had nonsustained VT. Hemodynamic and electrophysiologic parameters including VT induction were determined before and during an intravenous infusion of enoximone. The cardiac index increased (2.49 ± 0.89 to 2.96 ± 0.78), and the pulmonary capillary wedge pressure decreased (22.4 ± 13.2 to 10.0 ± 9.0) after enoximone per predefined protocol endpoints. There was a significant decrease in spontaneous sinus cycle length, corrected sinus nodal recovery time, AH interval during atrial pacing, shortest cycle length at which 1:1 atrioventricular nodal conduction occurred, and refractory periods of the atrium, ventricle, and atrioventricular node. Enoximone did not alter the cycle length of induced VT, and there was no consistent change in the number of extrastimuli required for VT induction. A baseline 24-hour ECG recording was obtained on 14 patients (while recelving a long-term antiarrhythmic drug regimen, if needed) and repeated after 1 week and 1 month of oral enoximone therapy. There was no significant increase in the number of premature ventricular complexes per hour or VT episodes per 24 hours after 1 week or 1 month of therapy with enoximone. However, if four patients who received amiodarone and may not yet have reached steady state were excluded from analysis, there was a significant increase in the frequency of premature ventricular complexes per hour 1 month after initiation of enoximone. We conclude that intravenous enoximone reduces pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and increases cardiac output in most patients. Intravenous enoximone in doses sufficlent to have hemodynamic effects shortens atrial, ventricular, and atrioventricular nodal refractoriness and decreases AV nodal conduction time but has no consistent effect on VT induction or VT cycle length. The frequency of spontaneous ventricular ectopy may increase in some patients after oral enoximone, but its clinical significance is undefined. Enoximone may be administered cautiously to patients with congestive heart fallure and preexisting ventricular tachyarrhythmias.
Productivity of cordgrass,Spartina alterniflora, estimated from live standing crops, mortality, and leaf shedding in a Virginia salt marsh

Net annual productivity of tall and medium form cordgrass,Spartina alterniflora, was estimated by a new clip sampling method in a sloping foreshore salt marsh at Wallops Island, Virginia. This method measured live standing crops only, to avoid problems of measuring dead biomass inherent in other methods. Losses from live standing crops by shoot mortality and by leaf shedding were estimated from these measurements and added separately to production of live tillers and of live culms. This allowed quantification of various components of production.Spartina tillering in different zones of the marsh produced 62 to 211 g dry weight per m2 per yr. Tiller mortality removed 37 to 106 g per m2 per yr from live standing crops. Culms produced 348 to 1,132 g per m2 before flowering and die-back. Culm mortality removed 28 to 246 g per m2 before flowering. Leaf shedding removed an additional 83 g per m2 in tall formSpartina. Altogether, net annual productivity These estimates are much higher than previous estimates of productivity and standing crops inSpartina marshes nearby.
Pros and cons of Internet2 videoconferencing as a new generation distance education tool

Abstract Internet2 is one of the newer ways of videoconferencing in American universities. Over 200 universities in the United States collaborate with each other through these high-quality Internet lines. K-12 schools and libraries nationwide have also started taking advantage of this fiber optic, high-capacity speedy network. However, the term Internet2 still remains obscure to many. This paper addresses pros and cons of using Internet2 as a means of videoconferencing.
Thyroxine: Effects of Neonatal Administration on Maturation, Development, and Behavior

In the report, "Thyroxine: effects of neonatal administration on maturation, development, and behavior," by S. Schapiro and R. J. Norman (10 Mar., p. 1279), the first line of Fig. 2 should read: "Fig. 2. Electroencephalograms from the cortex of thyroxine-treated and control infant...."
Resilience as process

Resilience, the development of competence despite severe or pervasive adversity, is examined using data from a longitudinal study of high-risk children and families. The study is guided by an organizationaldevelopmental perspective. Resilience is conceived not as a childhood given, but as a capacity that develops over time in the context of person-environment interactions. Factors related to resilience in our study are examined in terms of this transactional process. From our studies, we have found emotionally responsive caregiving to mediate the effects of high-risk environments and to promote positive change for children who have experienced poverty, family stress, and maltreatment. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Two-dimensional Lagrangian method for elastic-plastic flow

Abstract The present study uses Schulz's two-dimensional radiation hydrodynamic code as a framework. Three new features are added to the basic code. First, finite difference equations for deviatoric stresses and strains, shear modulus and yield strengths are written, i.e. compatibly with Schulz's special formulations. Material properties (i.e. shear modulus and yield strength) are dependent on pressure, compression and equivalent plastic strain (i.e. Steinberg-Guinan model). Second, modifications to the artificial viscosity are made so that the acceleration from the artificial viscosity will project onto the unit vector in the direction of local acceleration. This projection eliminates ‘false heating’ and helps maintain a stable computational grid. Also a very sharp shock front location will be obtained through this new method. Third, a semi-Eulerian method that allows the material flow through the Lagrangian mesh is used for treating the Lagrangian sliding interfaces.
Sex chromosome abnormalities in lung cancer patients

Chromosomal analyses of lymphocytes from lung cancer patients and normal subjects revealed that the X and the Y chromosomes have both structural and numerical abnormalities in higher frequency in patients compared to the controls. These abnormalities included chromatid/isochromatid breaks, translocations, ring formation, and selective nondisjunctions, resulting in multisomies of either the X or Y chromosomes. Possible significance of these genetic abnormalities are discussed in relation to lung cancer patients.
Procedural Modifications for the Determination of Lead in Microquantities of Blood of Young Japanese Quail

Lead analyses were performed on capillary blood samples from 2-week-old Japanese quail, using a standard microprocedure. The difficulties encountered included coagulation when the blood aliquot was diluted with Triton X-100, loss of lead during the ashing stage, and non-parallel calibration curves. Recommendations to overcome these problems are presented.
Design and control of a new single-phase inverter for grid-connected renewable energy systems

In this paper a new single-phase wind energy inverter (WEI) with FACTS capability is presented. The proposed inverter is placed between the wind turbine and the grid, same as a regular WEI, and is able to regulate active and reactive power transferred to the grid. This inverter is equipped with D-STATCOM option in order to control the power factor (PF) of the local feeder lines. Using the proposed inverter for small- to medium-size wind applications will eliminate the use of capacitor banks as well as FACTS devices to control the PF of the distribution lines. The goal of this work is to introduce new ways to increase the penetration of renewable energy systems into the distribution systems. This will encourage the utilities and customers to act not only as a consumer, but as a supplier of energy. Moreover, using the new types of converters with FACTS capabilities will significantly reduce the total cost of the renewable energy application. In this paper, MMC is used as the desired topology to meet all the requirements of a single-phase system such as compatibility with IEEE standards, THD, efficiency, and total cost of the system. The proposed control strategy regulates the active and reactive power using power angle and modulation index, respectively. The function of the proposed inverter is to transfer active power to the grid as well as keeping the power factor of the local power lines constant at a target power factor regardless of the incoming active power from the wind turbine. The simulations for an 11-level inverter have been done in MATLAB/Simulink. To validate the simulation results, a scaled prototype model of the proposed inverter has been built and tested.