cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
UNCONTROLLED GROWTH ASSOCIATED WITH NOVEL SOMATIC RECOMBINATION IN THE FUNGUS SCHIZOPHYLLUM

In the bracket mushroom, Schizophyllum commune, a recessive genetic alteration, mnd, causes abnormally hyperplastic three-dimensional mounds of hyphae to rise from the surface of both haploid and dikaryotic mycelia. mnd, although not a genetic block in the fruiting body developmental pathway, is at least partially epistatic to fruiting. Within dikaryons containing both mutant and wild-type nuclei, [mnd + mnd+], a nonreciprocal somatic recombination event can lead to stable conversion of the mnd+ region of the wild-type nucleus to mnd. This transformation to the homoallelic [mnd + mnd] condition involves no genomic areas other than the mnd region and permanently prevents any further fruiting. Studies relating to the recombination mechanism have ruled out a diploid intermediate state and other concomitants of orthodox somatic recombination, as well as whole chromosome transfer. Instead, a novel form of internuclear genetic transfer is postulated whereby a nearby locus, mob+, controls the mobilization of the mnd chromosomal region alone from one nucleus to the other within the binucleate cells of dikaryotic mycelia.
In vitro colonization of the goat biting lice, Bovicola crassipes and B. limbata

Bovicola crassipes (Redow) and B. limbata (Gervais) (Mallophaga: Trichodectidae) were colonized in vitro by utilizing scrapings from goatskin as food. The lice were held throughout their life cycles in 0.5- and 1-dr glass shell vials. At 72% RH and 35±1.5°C, a generation of B. crassipes developed in an average 36.7 days; an average 94% of the eggs hatched, and an average 65.6% developed to adults. At 76% RH and 35±1.5°C, a generation of B. limbata developed in an average 32.2 days; an average 84% of the eggs hatched, and an average 67.0% developed to adults.
The effects of freezing human dentin and cementum before implantation in the subcutaneous tissues of the rat.

Twenty-two sections of human roots including cementum and dentin were preserved by freezing at -5 degrees centigrade for an average of 27 days and then implanted into the subcutaneous tissues of the rat for periods up to one year. The reactions of the host connective tissues were compared with those previously noted around implants from freshly extracted teeth. Freezing caused quantitative rather than qualitative differences. Tissue reactions were seen earlier and to a greater degree than with fresh implants. It was concluded that freezing is a suitable method for preserving roots to be used for experimental heteroptic implantation in rats. The results also suggested that root resorption may consist of alternate decalcification and cellular digestion.
Synthesis of a radioiodinated analog of epibatidine : (±)-exo-2-(2-iodo-5-pyridyl)-7-azabicyclo[2.2.1]heptane for in vitro and in vivo studies of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors

[ 125 I] or [ 123 I] labeled (±)-exo-2-(2-iodo-5-pyridyl)-7-azabicyclo-[2.2.1]heptane (IPH), an analog of the high-affinity nicotinic acetylcholine receptor ligand, epibatidine, was prepared by a nucleophilic non-isotopic exchange reaction. Treatment of the 2-bromo pyridyl precursor with radioiodide and in situ generated Cu(I) at high temperature (200 - 220 °C) gave [ 125 I] or [ 123 I]IPH that was purified by reverse phase HPLC. Radiochemical yields ranged from 31 - 50% for the [ 125 I] labeling (average = 37%, n = 7) and 20% for [ 123 I]. Both [ 125 I]IPH and [ 123 I]IPH were of high radiochemical purity (> 96%) and high specific activity (average of 1540 mCi/μmol (57 GBq/μmol) for [ 125 I]IPH and > 1750 mCi/μmol (65 GBq/μmol) for [ 123 I]IPH).
Chemoradiotherapy in the treatment of cervical cancer

The advantage of concurrent chemoradiotherapy over radiotherapy alone in patients with cervical cancer has now been well documented in a series of prospective randomized trials. Six of these trials compared a cisplatin-based regimen (either cisplatin alone administered weekly or a combination of cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil) with radiotherapy alone or radiotherapy plus another, less effective chemotherapy; 5 of these 6 trials showed a benefit with concurrent chemotherapy. Individual trials have also suggested that epirubicin and the combination of mitomycin plus 5-fluorouracil are effective when administered concurrently with radiotherapy. Other drugs, particularly biologic response modifiers, are currently being studied for their potential benefit in combination with radiation and cisplatin. Although the side effects of chemoradiotherapy with weekly cisplatin or cisplatin plus 5-fluorouracil are tolerable for most patients, the addition of concurrent chemotherapy to radiotherapy markedly increases hematologic and gastrointestinal side effects and adds to the overall complexity of treatment. Successful management requires particularly close monitoring of hematologic parameters, fluid balance, electrolyte levels, dietary condition, and social support. Careful coordination between caregivers is crucial. Although early publication of some trials precluded mature analysis of late radiation effects, available data suggest that the addition of concurrent chemotherapy does not markedly increase the risk of major late complications. Most women with locoregionally advanced cervical cancers (stage IB2 or greater or positive pelvic lymph nodes) that are confined to the pelvis are candidates for chemoradiotherapy. However, the benefit of adding concurrent chemotherapy to radiotherapy should always be weighed against the risk of serious acute side effects, particularly in patients who have serious coexisting medical conditions that would have precluded or discouraged enrollment in the prospective trials.
SUPERIOR OBLIQUE PARALYSIS

Summary Paralysis of the superior oblique muscle in childhood is most commonly congenital or traumatic. Old photographs showing a prolonged head tilt can save expensive and invasive investigations. Diagnosis is relatively easy, but cyclodeviations should be sought as well as the vertical misalignments. The type of surgery will depend on whether there is a gross overaction of the inferior oblique, commitance, isolated superior oblique underaction, or predominant cyclodeviation. Examples are described.
High-resolution, 3-D imaging of lumpectomy tissue using optical coherence tomography

Pathology image guidance may enhance the effectiveness of adjuvant radiation treatment by identifying high-risk regions that would benefit from escalated radiation dose and low-risk regions at which little to no radiation dose is necessary. We present 3-D high-resolution optical coherence tomography (OCT) images of breast lumpectomy specimens. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded lumpectomy tissue specimens and mouse breast glands were imaged with OCT in the form of multiple series of 2-D axial depth scans. The computationally-combined series of 2D images forms a reconstructed volume. Ongoing studies will establish whether these images can capture features comparable to the corresponding pathology for localized adjuvant radiation treatment planning.
Noninvasive evaluation of peripheral arterial disease in the geriatric patient.

A progressive increase in the incidence of peripheral arterial occlusive disease is being observed in today's steadily aging population. In recent years, a number of simple noninvasive vascular techniques have become available for the diagnosis of peripheral arterial occlusive disease. These techniques provide the physician with physiologic information about the patient's peripheral circulation which permits discrimination between complaints compatible with the aging process and those indicative of an underlying disease state. This article reviews the noninvasive vascular diagnostic techniques that the authors found useful in evaluating the geriatric patient. These include oculoplethysmography, Doppler ultrasound, photoplethysmography, arterial impedance plethysmography, and electromagnetic flowmetry.
Total-reflection X-ray fluorescence — a tool to obtain information about different air masses and air pollution

Abstract Atmospheric aerosols are solid particles dissolved in air and change their chemical composition frequently depending on various parameters. In order to identify regional air circulation atmospheric aerosol filter samples were taken at Loyola University Chicago's Lake Shore Campus during the months of July and August 2000 with sampling times ranging between 1 and 2 h. The samples were digested in a microwave oven and analyzed by total-reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) spectrometry. One diurnal variation comprising five consecutive sampling events was selected and discussed as well as 4 days experiencing different meteorology were compared to exemplify the variation in trace elemental concentration according to air mass movements and highlight the capability of total-reflection X-ray fluorescence analysis. It was found that due to changes in meteorological conditions particularly wind direction and wind speed, trace elemental compositions varied rapidly and could be used to distinguish between ‘Lake Michigan air’ and ‘metropolitan Chicago air’ on such short-term time scale like one hour. Back trajectory analysis was applied to support and corroborate the results. The outcome of this study clearly shows that total-reflection X-ray fluorescence is an optimal tool for analysis of atmospheric aerosols.
Violation of the Wiedemann-Franz law in a large- N solution of the t − J model

We show that the Wiedemann-Franz law, which holds for Landau Fermi liquids, breaks down in a large-$n$ treatment of the $t\ensuremath{-}J$ model. The calculated ratio of the in-plane thermal and electrical conductivities agrees quantitatively with experiments on the normal state of the electron-doped ${\mathrm{Pr}}_{2\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Ce}}_{x}{\mathrm{CuO}}_{4}$ $(x=0.15)$ cuprate superconductor. The violation of the Wiedemann-Franz law in the uniform phase contrasts with other properties of the phase that are Fermi liquid like.
SU-E-J-38: Rotational Setup Errors in Pediatric Patients Receiving Radiation Therapy for Intracranial Tumors.

Purpose: We have clinically observed that larger rotational setup errors are more prominent in pediatric patients who received radiation therapy for braintumors. In this work, we quantitatively evaluated the daily setup corrections in pitch, roll, and yaw axes for children who received intracranial radiation therapy under x‐ray image guidance. Methods: Daily localization data of 43 patients between the ages of 10 months and 21.9 years were analyzed in this study. Patients were immobilized with thermoplastic mask during treatments, and 2D orthogonal x‐ray images wereacquired for setup corrections before each treatment. Rotational setup corrections in pitch, roll, and yaw axes were extracted from 873 treatment fractions, and were analyzed for the whole group of patients and for two age groups: = 5 years. Similarly, 10.6% of roll corrections and 20.9% of yaw corrections were more than 3° for patients < 5 years. On the other hand, 2.1% of roll and 13.8% of yaw corrections were more than 3° for patients = 5 years old. Conclusions: Data indicate that children less than 5 years old are more prone to rotational setup errors during intracranial radiation therapy. This can be attributed to reduced efficacy of immobilization devices due to smaller and rounder anatomicalfeatures of pediatric patients, and challenges in setup while the patient is under anesthesia. The role of daily image guidance and rotational setup corrections becomes important to ensure target coverage, especially for children < 5 years old.
Experimental pulmonary emphysema induced in the rat by intratracheally administered elastase: Morphogenesis

Abstract Emphysema was produced experimentally in rats by administration of porcine pancreatic elastase at dose levels of 75, 100, 125, and 150 units elastase activity/100 g body wt. All doses studied were equally effective in producing emphysema. Dose levels of over 75 units activity/100 g offered no advantage in terms of degree or severity of emphysema produced; however, such doses exacerbated hemorrhage and edema, resulting in relatively high post-instillation mortality. Lesion morphogenesis at all doses tested paralleled those described in this and in other species by other investigators. The 75-unit activity produced a quantifiable degree of emphysema which was relatively constant among animals. Results suggest that because of group differences in susceptibility to elastase (or variations in batches of elastase), dose-range studies should be performed on each new group of animals.
Spatial distribution of Rhizoctonia oryzae and rhizoctonia root rot in direct-seeded cereals.

Rhizoctonia oryzae causes root rot and stunting of wheat, barley, and other small grains, and is widely distributed in eastern Washington State. The spatial distribution of both the pathogen and the disease were studied over two seasons in a 36-ha field north of Pullman, Wash. The field was direct seeded with spring barley in 2000, then divided and planted to winter wheat and spring wheat in 2001. The incidence of crown-root rot and root colonization by R. oryzae were measured on plants taken from 95 sites 30–100 m apart on a nonaligned grid, localized by global positioning system. The incidence of crown-root rot was low, averaging 18, 16, and 13% on the spring barley, spring wheat, and winter wheat, respectively. The incidence of root colonization by R. oryzae was even lower, averaging 4, <1, and 2% on the spring barley, spring wheat, and winter wheat, respectively. The frequency distributions were highly skewed, with a high frequency of zero or low values. The distributions were fit to a beta-binomial d...
The role of adhesive in the ballistic/structural performance of ceramic/polymer–matrix composite hybrid armor

Abstract Transient non-linear dynamics computational finite-element analyses are employed to investigate the role of the adhesive used in ceramic strike-face/composite back-face hybrid armor. The role of the adhesive is investigated under: (a) high loading-rate conditions accompanying impact of an armor-piercing projectile onto the armor structure; and (b) low loading rate conditions associated with the ingress of the loads which are generated at the road/tire contact interfaces and transmitted into the armor structure through the vehicle frame. The high loading-rate conditions were analyzed since they reveal the role of the adhesive under ballistic impact scenarios which controls the overall penetration resistance of the armor. On the other hand, the low loading-rate conditions were analyzed since they may reveal the potential structural damage that armor may experience due to sustained in-service loads. Since structural thermoset-polymer-based adhesives suffer from inadequate ductility, only the case of flexible (elastomer-based) adhesives was considered. The following two specific aspects of the adhesive mechanical response are given special attention: (a) strain rate sensitivity and (b) the degree of volumetric compressibility. The results obtained show that while significant improvements in the ballistic protection performance and durability of hybrid armor can be attained by proper modifications in the adhesive layer mechanical properties, there is no single combination of these properties which simultaneously optimizes all the performance requirements.
Mixed-Valence Cu(I)-Cu(II) and Heterodimetallic Cu(I)-M(II) Bis(carboxylate-bridged) Complexes: Structural, Electrochemical, and Spectroscopic Investigations.

The synthesis, spectroscopic, electrochemical, and structural properties of a series of Cu(I)Cu(II) bis(carboxylate-bridged) complexes are described, together with related investigations of Cu(I)M(II) (M = Fe, Zn) analogues. Treatment of previously reported [Cu(2)(XDK)(MeCN)] (1) or [Cu(2)(PXDK)(MeCN)] (2), where H(2)XDK = m-xylylenediamine bis(Kemp's triacid imide) and H(2)PXDK = the propyl derivative of H(2)XDK, with 1 equiv of silver(I) triflate, trifluoroacetate, or tetrafluoroborate in THF afforded mixed-valence complexes [Cu(2)L(m-X)(THF)(2)], where X = triflate and L = XDK (4), PXDK (5); X = trifluoroacetate and L = XDK (6) and [Cu(2)L(THF)(4)]X, where X = tetrafluoroborate, L = XDK (7), PXDK (8). Compound 8 was also prepared from an equimolar mixture of (Et(4)N)[Cu(PXDK)] (3) and copper(II) triflate. Solid-state structural investigations of 4, 6, and 8 revealed symmetric, square pyramidal coordination environments about each copper atom and short Cu-Cu distances ranging from 2.3988(8) to 2.4246(12) A. These features imply significant metal-metal bonding character, the nature of which was further interrogated. Comparative structural and ligand exchange studies with mixed-metal analogues [CuZn(PXDK)(OTf)(THF)(2)(H(2)O)] (9), [CuFe(PXDK)(OTf)(NB)(MeCN)](2) (10, NB = norbornene), and [CuZn(PXDK)(OTf)(NB)(H(2)O)] (11) revealed longer metal-metal distances ranging from 3.294(2) to 3.732(2) A and monodentate, terminal triflate ligation. Variable-temperature and variable-field EPR studies showed that complexes 4-8 have fully delocalized electronic structures in the solid state and solution down to liquid helium temperatures. Molecular orbital calculations on simplified models of 4-8 revealed a Cu-Cu bonding interaction in the SHOMO and SOMO, comprising mainly sigma-type overlap between the d(x)()()2(-)(y)()()2 orbitals. In addition, cyclic voltammetric studies of compound 4 revealed a chemically reversible, electrochemically quasireversible one-electron reduction at a positive potential for a Cu(I)Cu(II) complex having a dianionic, oxygen-rich donor set. The relevance of these properties to the electronically similar Cu-Cu bonded system of the biological Cu(A) center is discussed.
Effects of solar photovoltaic panels on roof heat transfer

Effects of Solar Photovoltaic Panels on Roof Heat Transfer Anthony Dominguez a , Jan Kleissl a , and Jeffrey C. Luvall b a University of California, San Diego, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering b NASA, Marshall Space Flight Center, AL 35812, USA Corresponding author Jan Kleissl, jkleissl@ucsd.edu Office: (858) 534‐8087; Fax: (858) 534‐7599; Address: 9500 Gilman Dr, EBUII – 580, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093‐ Abstract Indirect benefits of rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems for building insulation are quantified through measurements and modeling. Measurements of the thermal conditions throughout a roof profile on a building partially covered by solar photovoltaic (PV) panels were conducted in San Diego, California. Thermal infrared imagery on a clear April day demonstrated that daytime ceiling temperatures under the PV arrays were up to 2.5 K cooler than under the exposed roof. Heat flux modeling showed a significant reduction in daytime roof heat flux under the PV array. At night the conditions reversed and the ceiling under the PV arrays was warmer than for the exposed roof indicating insulating properties of PV. Simulations showed no benefit (but also no disadvantage) of the PV covered roof for the annual heating load, but a 5.9 kWh m ‐2 (or 38%) reduction in annual cooling load. The reduced daily variability in rooftop surface temperature under the PV array reduces thermal stresses on the roof and leads to energy savings and/or human comfort benefits especially for rooftop PV on older warehouse buildings. Keywords: Building energy use; cooling load; photovoltaic; roof heat flux; thermal infrared camera
Biomimetic magnetic nanoparticles

Magnetic nanoparticles are of considerable interest because of their potential use in high-density memory devices, spintronics, and applications in diagnostic medicine. The conditions for synthesis of these materials are often complicated by their high reaction temperatures, costly reagents, and post-processing requirements. Practical applications of magnetic nanoparticles will require the development of alternate synthetic strategies that can overcome these impediments. Biomimetic approaches to materials chemistry have provided a new avenue for the synthesis and assembly of magnetic nanomaterials that has great potential for overcoming these obstacles.
Modeling of Scattering and Depolarizing Electro-Optic Devices. I. Characterization of Lanthanum-Modified Lead Zirconate Titanate

We describe a new method of modeling electro-optic (EO) devices, such as lanthanum-modified lead zirconate titanate polarization modulators, that resolves two deficiencies of current methods: (i) the inclusion of depolarization effects resulting from scattering and (ii) saturation of the EO response at strong electric-field strengths. Our approach to modeling depolarization is based on describing the transmitted optical field by superposition of a deterministic polarized wave and a scattered, randomly polarized, stochastic wave. Corresponding Jones matrices are used to derive a Mueller matrix to describe the wave propagation in scattering and depolarizing EO media accurately. A few simple optical measurements can be used to find the nonlinear behavior of the EO phase function, which is shown to describe accurately the material's EO behavior for weak and strong applied electric fields.
Energetics and Solvation Effects at the Photoanode/Catalyst Interface: Ohmic Contact versus Schottky Barrier.

The design of optimal interfaces between photoelectrodes and catalysts is a key challenge in building photoelectrochemical cells to split water. Iridium dioxide (IrO_2) is an efficient catalyst for oxygen evolution, stable in acidic conditions, and hence a good candidate to be interfaced with photoanodes. Using first-principles quantum mechanical calculations, we investigated the structural and electronic properties of tungsten trioxide (WO3) surfaces interfaced with an IrO_2 thin film. We built a microscopic model of the interface that exhibits a formation energy lower than the surface energy of the most stable IrO_2 surface, in spite of a large lattice mismatch, and has no impurity states pinning the Fermi level. We found that, upon full coverage of WO_3 by IrO_2, the two oxides form undesirable Ohmic contacts. However, our calculations predicted that if both oxides are partially exposed to water solvent, the relative position of the absorber conduction band and the catalyst Fermi level favors charge transfer to the catalyst and hence water splitting. We propose that, for oxide photoelectrodes interfaced with IrO_2, it is advantageous to form rough interfaces with the catalyst, e.g., by depositing nanoparticles, instead of sharp interfaces with thin films.
The risks of rewards in health care: how pay-for-performance could threaten, or bolster, medical professionalism.

Pay-for-performance incentive programs are born of attempts to answer the following question: How can we pay health-care professionals, and doctors in particular, so that they will be motivated to provide high-quality care? This question has several components that deserve careful attention.
Exploring The Consequences of Negative Triple Junction Energy

We have investigated the consequences of negative triple junction energy in grain growth. Two and three-dimensional models for total system energy, incorporating varying triple junction energy are developed. These models show that there is a decrease in overall system energy with grain size corresponding to the driving force for grain growth. Although the free energy available to drive grain growth is reduced under some conditions, it is never removed for any reasonable values of the triple junction energy.
Measles vaccination after orthotopic liver transplantation

The effect of primary measles vaccination after orthotopic liver transplantation was evaluated in 18 children. Immunity developed in seven children by serologic criteria. There were no complications directly attributable to the vaccine. These preliminary observations suggest that further study of measles vaccination in this group is warranted.
Nitric Oxide Produced by Endothelial Cells Increases Production of Eicosanoids Through Activation of Prostaglandin H Synthase

Abstract The endothelium serves many functional roles, including the modulation of vascular smooth muscle tone through the release of vasoactive agents such as nitric oxide (NO) and the eicosanoids. We proposed that NO produced by endothelial cells would increase the production of eicosanoids through enhanced expression and/or activation of prostaglandin H synthase. NO and eicosanoid synthesis were stimulated in a bovine coronary microvessel endothelial cell line with the calcium ionophore A23187 (1 μmol/L). Our data demonstrated the following: (1) A23187 stimulated NO synthesis along with prostacyclin and thromboxane production. (2) Inhibition of NO synthesis with NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (0.1 mmol/L) significantly diminished both prostacyclin and thromboxane production. (3) Cells incubated with hemoglobin (2 μg/mL), which inactivates NO, decreased A23187-stimulated prostacyclin production, whereas cells incubated with superoxide dismutase (20 U/mL), which protects NO from superoxide anions, enha...
A three-dimensional tissue culture model of bone formation utilizing rotational co-culture of human adult osteoblasts and osteoclasts

Living bone is a complex, three-dimensional composite material consisting of numerous cell types spatially organized within a mineralized extracellular matrix. To date, mechanistic investigation of the complex cellular level cross-talk between the major bone-forming cells involved in the response of bone to mechanical and biochemical stimuli has been hindered by the lack of a suitable in vitro model that captures the "coupled" nature of this response. Using a novel rotational co-culture approach, we have generated large (>4mm diameter), three-dimensional mineralized tissue constructs from a mixture of normal human primary osteoblast and osteoclast precursor cells without the need for any exogenous osteoconductive scaffolding material that might interfere with such cell-cell interactions. Mature, differentiated bone constructs consist of an outer region inhabited by osteoclasts and osteoblasts and a central region containing osteocytes encased in a self-assembled, porous mineralized extracellular matrix. Bone constructs exhibit morphological, mineral and biochemical features similar to remodeling human trabecular bone, including the expression of mRNA for SOST, BGLAP, ACP5, BMP-2, BMP-4 and BMP-7 within the construct and the secretion of BMP-2 protein into the medium. This "coupled" model of bone formation will allow the future investigation of various stimuli on the process of normal bone formation/remodeling as it relates to the cellular function of osteoblasts, osteoclasts and osteocytes in the generation of human mineralized tissue.
The specificity of the S1' subsite of cysteine proteases

The specificity of the S'1 subsite of the cysteine proteases cathepsin B, L, S and papain has been investigated using a series of intramolecularly quenched fluorogenic substrates (Dansyl-Phe-Arg-AA-Trp-Ala) where the P'1 amino acid (AA) has been varied. Taken individually, each enzyme displays a relatively broad S'1 subsite specificity and this subsite cannot be considered as a primary site of specificity. Notable differences do exist however between the various proteases. Cathepsin B prefers large hydrophobic residues in the P'1 position of a substrate while cathepsin L has an opposite trend, favoring amino acids with small (Ala, Ser) or long but non-branched (Asn, Gin, Lys) side chains. Cathepsin S and papain display a somewhat broader S'1 subsite specificity.
Effect of Temperature on Composting of Atrazine-Amended Lignocellulosic Substrates

Composting of atrazine-amended poplar wood was investigated at three different temperatures: 25°C, 37°C, and 55°C. In addition, we investigated the effect of poplar wood versus corn cobs as the composting substrate on atrazine mineralization at 55°C. Maximal mineralization of poplar wood carbon to CO2 was observed at 37°C, with 10 percent mineralization at the end of 84 days of incubation. Also, the extent of mineralization of corn cobs was higher (>15 percent) than that of poplar wood (less than six percent) at 55°C. Mineralization of atrazine was low in all cases and there was no direct correlation between mineralization of the lignocellulosic substrate and that of atrazine.
Role of Basal Insulin in the Regulation of Protein Kinetics and Energy Metabolism in Septic Patients

We have investigated the role of basal insulin concentration on leucine kinetics (determined by means of 1-[13C]leucine) and energy metabolism (determined by indirect calorimetry) in eight septic patients by reducing insulin (and glucagon) secretion by somatostatin infusion. Basal glucagon concentration was elevated (744 +/- 381 pg/mL), and insulin concentration was normal (10 +/- 4 microU/mL). Basal resting energy expenditure (REE) was 151 +/- 8% that of predicted basal energy expenditure, and leucine appearance (Ra), oxidation, and nonoxidative disposal rates were all elevated above the normal ranges. Somatostatin infusion reduced insulin concentration by 52% and glucagon concentration by 64%. This resulted in a significant increase in the rate of leucine oxidation from 0.96 +/- 0.08 to 1.18 +/- 0.14 mumol/kg/min (p less than 0.01), and nonoxidative leucine disposal decreased from 2.95 +/- 0.18 to 2.67 +/- 0.17 mumol/kg/min (p less than 0.01). Somatostatin infusion also caused significant increases in REE and fat oxidation from 1310 +/- 100 to 1505 +/- 128 kcal/m2/day (p less than 0.05) and from 1.72 +/- 0.24 to 2.41 +/- 0.41 mg/kg/min, respectively, and a slight decrease of carbohydrate oxidation from 1.51 +/- 0.49 to 1.31 +/- 0.49 mg/kg/min. These metabolic responses can be attributed to the reduction in insulin concentration, because they are in the opposite direction of changes that would occur as a consequence of a reduction in glucagon concentration. We conclude that the basal insulin plays an important role in attenuating net protein loss and energy expenditure.
Prisoner's Dilemma in Cancer Metabolism

As tumors outgrow their blood supply and become oxygen deprived, they switch to less energetically efficient but oxygen-independent anaerobic glucose metabolism. However, cancer cells maintain glycolytic phenotype even in the areas of ample oxygen supply (Warburg effect). It has been hypothesized that the competitive advantage that glycolytic cells get over aerobic cells is achieved through secretion of lactic acid, which is a by-product of glycolysis. It creates acidic microenvironment around the tumor that can be toxic to normal somatic cells. This interaction can be seen as a prisoner's dilemma: from the point of view of metabolic payoffs, it is better for cells to cooperate and become better competitors but neither cell has an incentive to unilaterally change its metabolic strategy. In this paper a novel mathematical technique, which allows reducing an otherwise infinitely dimensional system to low dimensionality, is used to demonstrate that changing the environment can take the cells out of this equilibrium and that it is cooperation that can in fact lead to the cell population committing evolutionary suicide.
Noise-Induced Intermittency in a Convecting Dilute Solution of He 3 in Superfluid He 4

Measurements on a convecting dilute $^{3}\mathrm{He}$-superfluid-$^{4}\mathrm{He}$ solution show a transition from periodic to chaotic behavior via intermittency. In a region near but below the onset of intermittency, injection of external noise greater than some threshold value induces chaos.
The effect of sodium azide on cell processes in the embryonic barley shoot

Sodium azide has been utilized recently both as an agent for the study of repair of radiation-induced chromosome damage, and as a mutagen in barley caryopses (seeds). However, the effect of this agent on the cell cycle and optimum time of treatment during the cell cycle in these studies is not known. To better understand the effects of sodium azide on the embryonic barley shoot cells, a detailed study of the effect of azide on the cell cycle was conducted. Himalaya barley seeds were treated for 2 hr with 10−4, 5 × 10−4, and 10−3M oxygenated sodium azide solutions at pH 3. The principal effect on the cell cycle due to sodium azide treatment was a delay in the initiation of metabolism following germination. This resulted in a uniform delay in the following parameters: mitotic activity, seedling growth, and ATP and DNA syntheses. This delay was interpreted as being due to an ATP deficiency which when alleviated allows the cells to progress normally through mitosis. Chromosome damage caused by sodium azide was not reflected in the seedling heights as the reduction in height was due entirely to mitotic delay. No variation occurred in the progression of cells through mitosis between various regions of the shoot within the first 29 hr of germination.
The Description of Health Among Iraqi Refugee Women in the United States

The purpose of this study was to understand the description of health among Iraqi women refugees, their health status, and health experiences during resettlement in the United States. Twelve women, ages 21-67 years old, who resettled in the United States during or after 2003 where interviewed. The women described health as a gift determined by God, the ability to function, the absence of physical symptoms, and the need to feel safe and secure in the context of resettlement. Although the Iraqi women valued health, during the resettlement process, seeking safety and feeling secure were the foremost priorities. Findings revealed that this is a vulnerable population which has experienced the violence of war and, as a result, have unique physical, mental, economic, and social concerns related to health. Implications are for a multidisciplinary approach to best meet the unique individual health needs of this vulnerable population.
Insulinlike growth factors in human malignancy.

(1991). Insulinlike Growth Factors in Human Malignancy. Cancer Investigation: Vol. 9, No. 4, pp. 443-454.
Dark matter in the solar system II: WIMP annihilation rates in the Sun

We calculate the annihilation rate of weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs) in the Sun as a function of their mass and elastic scattering cross section. One byproduct of the annihilation, muon neutrinos, may be observed by the next generation of neutrino telescopes. Previous estimates of the annihilation rate assumed that any WIMPs from the Galactic dark halo that are captured in the Sun by elastic scattering off solar nuclei quickly reach thermal equilibrium in the Sun. Using simulations of WIMP orbits in the Solar System in the case that spin-independent scattering dominates in the Sun (and extrapolating to the case when spin-dependent scattering dominates), we show that the optical depth of the Sun to WIMPs and the gravitational forces from planets both serve to decrease the annihilation rate below these estimates. While we find that the sensitivity of upcoming km^3-scale neutrino telescopes to ~100 GeV WIMPs is virtually unchanged from previous estimates, the sensitivity of these experiments to ~10 TeV WIMPs may be an order of magnitude less than the standard calculations would suggest. The new estimates of the annihilation rates should guide future experiment design and improve the mapping from neutrino event rates to WIMP parameter space.
Metabolism of Homovanillamine to Homovanillic Acid in Guinea Pig Liver Slices

Background/Aims: Homovanillamine is a biogenic amine that it is catalyzed to homovanillyl aldehyde by monoamine oxidase A and B, but the oxidation of its aldehyde to the acid derivative is usually ascribed to aldehyde dehydrogenase and a potential contribution of aldehyde oxidase and xanthine oxidase is usually ignored. Methods: The present investigation examines the metabolism of homovanillamine to its acid derivative by concurrent incubation with monoamine oxidase and aldehyde oxidase. In addition, the metabolism of homovanillamine in freshly prepared and cryopreserved liver slices is examined and the relative contribution of aldehyde oxidase, xanthine oxidase and aldehyde dehydrogenase activity by using specific inhibitors of each oxidizing enzyme is compared. Results: Homovanillamine was rapidly converted mainly to homovanillic acid when incubated with both momoamine oxidase and aldehyde oxidase. Homovanillic acid was also the main metabolite in the incubations of homovanillamine with freshly prepared or cryopreserved liver slices, via the intermediate homovanillyl aldehyde. The acid formation was 70-75 % inhibited by disulfiram (specific inhibitor of aldehyde dehydrogenase), whereas isovanillin (specific inhibitor of aldehyde oxidase) inhibited acid formation to a lesser extent (50-55 %) and allopurinol (specific inhibitor of xanthine oxidase) had almost no effect. Conclusions: Homovanillamine is rapidly oxidized to its acid, via homovanillyl aldehyde, by aldehyde dehydrogenase and aldehyde oxidase with little or no contribution from xanthine oxidase.
INFLUENCE OF pH AND SALT CONCENTRATION ON NITROGEN SOLUBILITY AND EMULSIFICATION PROPERTIES OF SOY FLOUR

Nitrogen solubility and emulsifying properties of soy flour were measured over a pH range of 20–10.0 and in three dispersion media including water, 0.1M NaCl (low salt) and 1.0M NaCl (high salt). Nitrogen solubility and emulsion capacity of water and low-salt suspensions were similar and were quite low at pH 4.0 but improved significantly at pH levels below or above 4.0. In high-salt suspensions, nitrogen solubility and emulsion capacity generally increased from IJH 2.0 to PH 10.0. Whereas no emulsions were formed by water -and low-salt suspensions at pH 4.0, thick mayonnaise-like emulsions were formed by the high salt treatment at this pH. Except for the water and low-salt suspensions at pH 4.0 and the low-salt suspension at pH 5.0, all emulsions formed were mayonnaise-like in consistency and compared favorably to a commercial mayonnaise. Multiple regression analyses showed that pH was the primary determinant of nitrogen solubility and emulsifying properties of soy flour. The influence of soluble nitrogen on emulsion capacity and viscosity was difficult to discern since it too was strongly influenced and confounded by pH effects. Changing the electrovalent properties of the protein, either by shifts in pH or by modifications in salt concentration, appeared to be the most significant factor influencing these functional characteristics.
Angiographic evaluation of a carotid‐subclavian bypass graft in a patient with subclavian artery stenosis and left internal mammary artery bypass graft

The incidence of coronary subclavian steal syndrome is estimated to be 0.4%. When revascularization is necessary, the preferred technique is the carotid-subclavian bypass graft. Failure of a carotid-subclavian graft is rare. We present a patient with subclavian stenosis who required reevaluation of both the carotid subclavian conduit and the left internal mammary bypass graft. A combined femoral and left brachial approach is recommended for evaluating the carotid-subclavian graft and left internal mammary artery graft in patients with bypassed subclavian artery stenosis and prior myocardial revascularization.
The significance of a positive second trimester serum screen for trisomy 18.

Objectives. We designed this study to estimate the proportion of fetuses in pregnancies with positive second trimester serum screens for trisomy 18 who actually have trisomy 18, to estimate the proportion of women with trisomy 18 who have a negative serum screen, and to assess the role of ultrasound in the diagnosis of trisomy 18.Methods. Retrospective study of two cohorts of pregnant women in 2004 and 2005: (1) those with a second trimester serum screen positive for trisomy 18 and (2) those with fetuses having trisomy 18.Results. There were 93 women with positive serum screens for trisomy 18. Of these, only three had a fetus with trisomy 18. There were five other cases of trisomy 18, three of which had a negative second trimester serum screen for trisomy 18. All fetuses with trisomy 18 had multiple major structural abnormalities detected on targeted genetic sonography.Conclusions. A positive second trimester serum screen has a poor sensitivity and poor prediction for trisomy 18. Trisomy 18 is highly unli...
Endophenotype: a conceptual analysis.

This paper provides a conceptual analysis of the endophenotype (EP) construct that is having an increasing role in genetic strategies for unraveling the etiology of psychiatric disorders (PDs). We make six major points illustrated through the method of path analysis. First, it is important to distinguish between mediational and liability-index (or ‘risk indicator’) models for EP, as only the former requires genetic risk for PD to pass through EP. Second, the relative reliability of EP and PD can have a critical role in the interpretation of results. Ignoring them can lead to substantial errors of inference. Third, we need to consider bidirectional relationships between an EP and a PD, and the possibility that genetic effects on PD are only partially mediated by EP. Fourth, EP models typically assume that all genetic effects that have an impact on EP also alter risk for PD. However, among the genetic influences on EP and PD, it is also plausible that some will influence only EP, some only PD and some both. Fifth, we should also consider models incorporating multiple EPs and PDs, which can be well captured by multivariate genetic methods. Sixth, EPs may also reflect the impact of the environment on risk for PDs. The EP concept has important potential lessons for etiological research in PDs that can be optimized by considering it as a special case of a broader set of multivariate genetic models, which can be fitted using currently available methodology.
Targeted lipidomics approach for endogenous N-acyl amino acids in rat brain tissue.

Abstract Great effort has been devoted to characterize signaling lipids in central nervous system. This has led to a search for novel strategies to characterize hitherto unknown lipid compositions. Here we developed two methods, one for identification and one for quantification, for N -acyl amino acids, a novel lipid family. The identification method contains a series of purification steps followed by nano-LC/MS/MS and high-throughput screening of the datasets with a potent search algorithm based on fragment ion analysis. MS/MS spectra with good quality can be obtained with 150 fmol of targeted lipids on column with our nano-LC/MS/MS. More than one thousand mass spectra generated using the information dependent acquisition mode of Analyst QS software can be analyzed in 1 min using our home built software. The quantification method utilized the multiple reaction monitoring mode in Analyst software to measure the endogenous levels of N -acyl amino acids in rat brain. Using these two methods we were able to identify and quantify 11 previously reported N- acyl amino acids with endogenous levels ranging from 0.26 to 333 pmol g −1 wet rat brain.
Combining spatial transition probabilities for stochastic simulation of categorical fields

Categorical spatial data, such as land use classes and socioeconomic statistics data, are important data sources in geographical information science (GIS). The investigation of spatial patterns implied in these data can benefit many aspects of GIS research, such as classification of spatial data, spatial data mining, and spatial uncertainty modeling. However, the discrete nature of categorical data limits the application of traditional kriging methods widely used in Gaussian random fields. In this article, we present a new probabilistic method for modeling the posterior probability of class occurrence at any target location in space-given known class labels at source data locations within a neighborhood around that prediction location. In the proposed method, transition probabilities rather than indicator covariances or variograms are used as measures of spatial structure and the conditional or posterior (multi-point) probability is approximated by a weighted combination of preposterior (two-point) transi...
Mechanically Ventilated Newborns: A Comparison of Two Airway Suctioning Regimens 1228

Tracheal suctioning (TS) although clinically necessary may cause hypoxemia, bradycardia, bacteremia and airway colonization. We hypothesize that some reduction of TS frequency will not adversely affect newborn care. In our NICU, TS was done q4h, but since in August 1997 the frequency was changed to q8h or as needed, a comparison of these two regimens was undertaken. TS (2 passes) was preceded by the instillation of 0.2 ml saline. Consistency, amount and color of secretions was documented. Data from 24 (q4h) and 24 (q8h) infants(bwgt. ≤1500g) on conventional ventilation for ≥7 days were analyzed. Variables studied included: reintubations (RTUB), postural drainages (PD), the incidence of bloodtinged secretions and airway colonization with Gram Positive Cocci (GPC) or Gram Negative Bacilli (GNB). Demographic and perinatal factors among the groups were similar. Infants in the q4h group (bwgt. 900g, 27w GA, 23 survivors) were comparable to those of the q8h group (bwgt. 952g, 27w GA, 23 survivors). Average number of TS/pt/d was 6 and 4.6 for q4h and q8h groups, respectively. Similar differences in TS frequency were noted at 7, 14 and 21days (p<0.01). Two pts. in the q8h group experienced nosocomial bloodstream infection (1 GPC, 1 GNB) unrelated to airway colonization. During hospitalization, newborns from both groups were RTUB on average 2.6 times, while 9 pts. (q4h) and 10 pts. (q8h) needed PD due to either atelectasis(often related to endotracheal tube malposition) or changes in quality/quantity of airway secretions. Blood-tinged secretions but not frank hemorrhage were noted during routine TS in 6 pts. (4 from q4h) and following RTUB in another 6 (5 from q8h). Eighteen pts. from each group were ventilated for at least 14 days. All but one had GPC (S.hemolyticus and/or S.epidermidis) and 22 of the 36 (q4h/q8h combined pts.) had GNB colonization. Equally distributed between the groups were:P.aeruginosa (7), H.influenzae (1), A.baumannii(2), K.pneumoniae (7), E.cloacae (1) and E.coli(4) isolates. Conclusion: A significant reduction in TS can be accomplished without affecting neonatal mortality, number of RTUB, need for PD, and timing and type of airway colonization. Significant cost benefits may be anticipated when comparable changes in the frequency of tracheal suctioning are implemented.
Mandible reconstruction with the scapula osteocutaneous flap

Immediate reconstruction with free tissue transfer using vascularized bone has become the mainstay in the management of composite defects of the mandible. The flap of choice in each case must be individualized. For wounds in which the soft tissue requirements are complicated, use of scapular free flaps may be particularly advantageous. The anatomy, harvest, and applications of osteocutaneous scapular flaps in mandibular reconstruction are discussed.
Infrared Detectors Overview in the Short Wave Infrared to Far Infrared for CLARREO Mission

There exists a considerable interest in the broadband detectors for CLARREO Mission, which can be used to detect CO2, O3, H2O, CH4, and other gases. Detection of these species is critical for understanding the Earth?s atmosphere, atmospheric chemistry, and systemic force driving climatic changes. Discussions are focused on current and the most recent detectors developed in SWIR-to-Far infrared range for CLARREO space-based instrument to measure the above-mentioned species. These detector components will make instruments designed for these critical detections more efficient while reducing complexity and associated electronics and weight. We will review the on-going detector technology efforts in the SWIR to Far-IR regions at different organizations in this study.