cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Office of Minority Health

Health disparity exists in the United States despite the medical advances and technological strides throughout the nation. The Office of Minority Health was established to ensure all Americans have the opportunity to live long, healthy, and productive lives. The Office of Minority Health is leading the charge by addressing concerns, promoting awareness, and creating programs for the reduction of poor health outcomes. “Poor health outcomes for the minority population are apparent when comparing their health indicators against those of the rest of the United States. Minority groups experience higher rates of illness, preventable diseases, and deaths” (About OMH). The Office of Minority Health web site contains health care information related to the awareness and elimination of health disparity in the United States.
Study of relative thickness of thin oxide layers at Si3N3/Si interface by auger depth profiling

Auger depth profiles of nitride—oxide—silicon (NOS) structures with oxide thickness of 27.4 A, 31.4 A, 41.7 A and 52.5 A have been studied. The area under the oxygen peak-to-peak trace was found to depend on the thickness, d, and the sputtering rate, R, of the oxide layer. A simple equation has been derived, showing that the area is proportional to d/R. The experimental data agree with the derived equation.
Re‐evaluation of the Need for Pelvic Lymphadenectomy in Low Grade Prostate Cancer

In a series of 166 patients undergoing radical prostatectomy and bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection for clinical stage A and B prostate cancer we found that 83% of patients with lymph node metastases had a final tumour Gleason score > or = 7. Gleason scoring of the pre-operative biopsy demonstrated 3 groups of patients with biopsy scores or = 7, and a prevalence of lymph node metastases of 2, 13 and 23% respectively. The pre-operative serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) was of marginal value in predicting either the presence of lymph node metastases or the presence of cancer, since 15% of patients with nodal metastases had normal pre-operative PSA levels, as did 54% of patients with tumour Gleason scores < or = 5. It was concluded that the need for pelvic lymph node dissection in patients with low grade tumours is questionable because of the low prevalence of lymph node metastases, and that the pre-operative biopsy can identify those patients who are at low risk for lymph node metastases.
Adaptive Networks with Noisy Links

In biological systems, animals exhibit organized behavior that arises from localized interactions. The interaction is implemented through information exchange, either directly or indirectly. Adaptive networks, consisting of a collection of nodes with learning abilities that interact with each other to solve distributed inference problems in real-time, are well-suited to model these kinds of behavior. Usually the information exchange between two nodes is imperfect and the data from neighbors are noisy. In this paper, we examine the effect of noisy communication links on network performance and derive an optimal strategy for adjusting the combination weights.
Automatic seed point identification and main artery segmentation for pulmonary vascular tree segmentation and tracking in computed tomographic pulmonary angiography (CTPA)

We are developing a computer-aided detection (CAD) system to assist radiologists in pulmonary embolism (PE) detection in computed tomographic pulmonary angiography (CTPA). Automatic segmentation and tracking of pulmonary vessels is a fundamental step to define the search space for PE detection. For automated tracking of pulmonary arteries, it is important to accurately identify the seed points to track the left and right pulmonary vessel trees. In this study, we developed an automatic seed point identification and pulmonary main artery (PMA) segmentation method. The seed point was derived from the bifurcation region where the pulmonary trunk artery splits into the left and right. A 3D recursive optimal path finding method (RPF) was developed to find the paths from the bifurcation point to the end of the left and right PMAs. The PMAs were finally extracted along the PMA paths using morphological operation. Two and 18 CTPA cases was used for training and testing, respectively. A set of points in the central luminal space of the PMA were manually marked as the "reference standard" by two experienced chest radiologists using a computer interface. A total of 3870 were marked in the test set. A voxel located on the computer-identified paths of the PMA was counted as a true PMA voxel when its distance to the closest reference standard point is within a threshold. Our results show that 95.6% (17681/18502) and 88.8% (16439/18502) of computer identified PMA path points were within a distance of 10 mm and 8 mm to the closest reference point, respectively, and 100% (18/18) of the seed points were detected in the bifurcation region. 2.7% (104/3870) of the reference standard points were not contained in the computer segmented vessels and counted as false negative points.
Urban security in perspective

Abstract Cities, which encompass a large and growing portion of the world population, are primary targets for terrorism and are particularly vulnerable because of the interdependence of their systems. Cities' threats and targets are reviewed and a series of principles and observations about the protection of cities are suggested. Some lessons learned from the events of September 11, 2001 are outlined and complemented by suggestions of needs, both technical and socio-technological, that need to be addressed.
Formation and microstructural stability of multiphase intermetallics based on NiAl

Abstract Multiphase NiAl(Fe)(Cr)-based intermetallics with β(B2) + [γ(A1) + γ′(L1 2 )], β + γ or β + γ′ microstructures can offer significant tensile ductilities. In the case of NiCrAl-based alloys, microstructural development is complicated by the precipitation of α-Cr, which can supplant the γ phase during aging of three-phase β + (γ + γ′) microstructures. This paper presents an investigation of microstructural development in cast NiCrAl(Co) alloys which begin to solidify in the β-phase field and subsequently form interdendritic γ + γ′ regions. As-cast microstructures and the effect on microstructural stability of aging at 850 and 1100 °C for 140 h are discussed. In the as-cast condition, the materials investigated consisted of a dendrite matrix comprised entirely of L1 0 -type martensite, with interdendritic regions composed principally of cuboidal γ′ in γ. The two-phase γ + γ′ interdendritic microstructure was retained after aging of an Ni-24at.%Al-21at.%Cr alloy at 850 or 1100 °C. Extensive α-Cr formation was observed in the as-cast condition, but aging did not result in fresh α-Cr precipitation.
Do weapons automatically capture attention

Two experiments explored whether weapons automatically capture attention or whether eyewitnesses can overcome the weapon focus effect if so instructed. Witnesses heard a lecture that either instructed them to attend to the target individual and avoid fixating on the weapon or presented unrelated information. Subsequently, they observed the target carrying either a weapon or a book and attempted to remember his appearance. Control witnesses reported fewer correct and more incorrect details when he carried a weapon rather than the book. However, the reports of educated witnesses did not differ between object conditions. Additionally, witnesses' ability to avoid weapon focus was unaffected by weapon unusualness and elevated arousal levels, and control witnesses provided better descriptions of the weapon than the book.
The effect of emetics on canine gastric secretion.

Further parameters on the effects of emesis on gastric secretion were investigated in dogs with denervatd gastric pouches. In adequate concentrations, copper sulfate, zinc sulfate, and Veriloid caused salivation, retching, and vomiting which was followed, after a latent period, by an increase in the gastric volume and the acid concentration. This latent period corresponded to the gastric inhibitory phase that follows emesis. Apomorphine, which also induced salivation, retching, vomiting, and an inhibition of gastric secretion, did not cause an augmented gastric secretion.
Fertility recommendations: past and present

Abstract The basis for fertilizer recommendations has progressed from trial and error in the 1940s to an almost total dependence on soil testing at the present. Fertilizer recommendations have progressed over time from small amounts of compound fertilizers to an amount of a nutrient based on a soil test value. Research activity on development of soil testing and fertilizer recommendations was greatest in the 1950s and 1960s and has declined steadily since that time. Because the research was conducted by land grant universities in the individual states, the recommendation philosophies and recommendations varied among many states. This condition still exists although there presently is more agreement among some states. A national survey of land grant universities which have conducted the research supporting fertilizer recommendations, strongly suggests a need to update the soil test calibration data supporting the recommendations. The greatest recent improvement in fertilizer recommendations in many states ...
Oviposition Studies on the Chinch Bug, Blissus Leucopterus (Say)

A review of the literature on the chinch bug, Blissus leucopterus (Say), shows that little detailed study has been reported on the egg-laying potential of this insect. Shimer (1867) estimated that a female was capable of producing as many as 500 eggs. This figure has been reported by Chambliss (1895), Webster (1896), and other investigators. Johnson (1895) found that six females collected in the field, laid from 98 to 237 eggs each under breeding cage conditions. Lugin-bill (1922) made individual counts on the daily egg production of four individuals. He reported the total number of eggs per female to range from 51 to 119 and mentioned that these females had probably begun to lay before they were captured in the field.
Theory for incompressible fluid turbulence

Abstract The functional integral representation for the space-time Hopf characteristic functional associated with boundary-free incompressible fluid turbulence is evaluated accurately to order R -2 , where R is the dimensionless Reynolds number in the theory. This work extends the results obtained previously for C-dominant turbulence to the regime of experimentally accessible large Reynolds numbers. We obtain a characteristic functional of non-Gaussian form as an asymptotically exact solution to the theory for large values of R. Two-point and three-point velocity correlation tensors of physical interest are derived from the characteristic functional.
Morphine Induces Bacterial Translocation in Mice by Compromising Intestinal Barrier Function in a TLR-Dependent Manner

Opiates are among the most prescribed drugs for pain management. However, morphine use or abuse results in significant gut bacterial translocation and predisposes patients to serious infections with gut origin. The mechanism underlying this defect is still unknown. In this report, we investigated the mechanisms underlying compromised gut immune function and bacterial translocation following morphine treatment. We demonstrate significant bacterial translocation to mesenteric lymph node (MLN) and liver following morphine treatment in wild-type (WT) animals that was dramatically and significantly attenuated in Toll-like receptor (TLR2 and 4) knockout mice. We further observed significant disruption of tight junction protein organization only in the ileum but not in the colon of morphine treated WT animals. Inhibition of myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) blocked the effects of both morphine and TLR ligands, suggesting the role of MLCK in tight junction modulation by TLR. This study conclusively demonstrates that morphine induced gut epithelial barrier dysfunction and subsequent bacteria translocation are mediated by TLR signaling and thus TLRs can be exploited as potential therapeutic targets for alleviating infections and even sepsis in morphine-using or abusing populations.
Calculation of Electrical Conductivity and Giant Magnetoresistance within the Free Electron Model

The authors use the model of free electrons with random point scatterers (FERPS) to calculate the electrical conductivity and giant magnetoresistance (GMR) for FeCr multilayer systems and compare the results with the experimental values. The analysis suggests that the primary cause of the GMR in FeCr systems is regions of interdiffusion near the interfaces. They find that in the samples analyzed, these regions of interdiffusion occupy about 8.5{angstrom} of the magnetic layer near each interface.
Skin testing and incremental challenge in the evaluation of adverse reactions to local anesthetics

True allergic reactions to local anesthetics (LAs) probably make up no more than 1% of all adverse LA reactions. A diagnosis of true potential allergic reactivity is made difficult because (1) the history of the prior reaction may be vague or equivocal and (2) the lack of identification of the actual specific LA hapten-carrier complex limits the potential usefulness of immunologic tests. Nonetheless, since avoidance of LAs may be associated with substantial increased pain or increased risk and because true allergic reactions are rare, investigators and clinicians have used skin testing, incremental challenge, or both as a means of identifying a safe LA for a patient with a history of a prior adverse reaction. Review of the literature dealing with LA skin testing and incremental challenge suggests the following: (1) Skin testing with LAs may correlate with a history of an adverse reaction but may produce systemic adverse reactions, especially with undiluted drug. (2) Although false positive skin tests have been reported, most skin-tested patients who subsequently tolerate an LA have a negative skin test to that drug, and false negative skin tests have not been clearly documented. (3) Incremental challenge beginning with diluted LA is a safe and effective means of identifying a drug that a patient with a history of a prior adverse reaction can tolerate. (4) Current concepts of non-cross-reacting LA groups may be useful in the choice of a drug for use in skin testing and incremental challenge. (5) Preservatives in LAs may account for some but probably not the majority of adverse reactions to LAs. On the basis of this literature review, a practical protocol including dilutional skin testing and incremental challenge is presented for use in evaluating patients with prior adverse reactions to LAs.
Putting context in the statistics: paediatricians' experiences discussing obesity during office visits.

Introduction Surveys poorly capture how paediatric providers interact with individual patients and families to encourage behaviour change for obesity treatment. Paediatricians’ descriptions of their specific experiences may suggest new ways to approach office-based obesity care. Methods Face-to-face interviews with eight paediatricians from diverse backgrounds and practice settings in the Saint Louis area. They described their experiences identifying and treating obesity, the perceived response and suggestions for improved office-based treatment. Transcriptions of audiotaped interviews were analysed using qualitative techniques. Results Paediatricians believed they identify most overweight children but without the use of body mass index (BMI). They recognized excess weight using weight and height charts, which also helped them inform families of the condition. Consistent with available recommendations, the paediatricians emphasized health problems of obesity, advised simple behaviour changes for the entire household and adapted messages to individual families. They sometimes took extra time to discuss obesity. Despite their efforts, they observed almost no success. In addition to poor home environments in many families, they described low family commitment. In their experience, the rare, successful patients came to office visits already motivated. They suggested some office-based improvements, such as better handouts although they stressed the need for improved school and community environments. Conclusion Despite following available obesity treatment recommendations, the paediatricians observed little success. These findings suggest that promoting paediatrician compliance with recommendations will not improve outcome. Instead, improving patient motivation prior to visits and new handouts designed with parent input may be more effective. BMI use will likely increase only when paediatricians are persuaded of its utility.
Nondestructive and impulsive testing of electroexplosive devices.

Discussion of NDT techniques and instrumentation developed to demonstrate the quality and normal behavior of 1-W/1-A no-fire electroexplosive devices (EEDs) without firing or degrading the units. Application of these techniques is limited to the bridgewire/explosive/header interface which is considered to be the most critical link in the electroexplosive chain. A certain amount of destructive testing required to determine the sensitivity and output of the EEDs can be accomplished by additional instrumentation that initiates and delivers energy in an impulsive manner with control of pulse width and amplitude.
Discovering Elements of Complex Adaptive Systems: A Case Study of University Hospital's Re‐engineering Efforts

Organizational change efforts have received considerable attention from both social scientists and practitioners interested in understanding the change process in organizations. Specific organizational development interventions have been developed to improve quality, increase job satisfaction, and reduce costs in response to increased competitiveness in a global economy. Common among most interventions is the goal of improving quality by involving employees in the process. This paper relies on developments in the “new sciences”, which includes chaos, complexity theory, self‐organizing systems, and evolutionary systems, as a way of both approaching change in organizations and understanding organizations as evolutionary systems. These “new” perspectives denote a move away from the Newtonian model which is characterized by reductionism to understanding underlying relationships which create change in the operations of systems. The applicability of these “new sciences” is explored through a case study of chang...
Evaluation of soil washing process to remove mixed contaminants from a sandy loam

Abstract Soil washing is a remediation process which is primarily used to treat soils and sludges which are contaminated with only one or two groups of contaminants (e.g., metals and/or volatile organic compounds). This process, however, has not been extensively employed on soils that are contaminated with pesticides in addition to metals and volatile organic compounds. This paper describes the development of a new soil washing process which is used to remove these mixed pollutants from soils. First, an overview of the soil washing process and its previous applications for soil remediation is presented. Then, an extensive experimental program which determined the most effective wash solution for removing mixed pollutants from a sandy loam is described. The sandy loam soil used for this experimentation was poorly graded, containing 66% sand and 34% silt/clay. The contaminants remediated in the experiments were: (1) metals (cadmium, silver, and copper), (2) volatile organic compounds (ethyl benzene, methyl iso-butyl ketone), (3) halogenated compounds (chloroethene, tetra chloroethylene), and (4) pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides (lindane, methoxychlor, and endrin). The experimentation results determined that a combination of 2.5 N sulfuric acid and isopropyl alcohol in a 4:9 ratio and with a dilution of 5:1, solution to soil, would form as effective wash solution. The paper also describes the development of a bench-scale model and the results obtained from these bench-scale tests. These tests confirmed that the new soil washing process can remove the mixed pollutants efficiently and economically.
The Symmetry of Emotional and Deliberate Facial Actions

Asymmetries of the smiling facial movement were more frequent in deliberate imitations than spontaneous emotional expressions. When asymmetries did occur they were usually stronger on the left side of the face if the smile was deliberate. Asymmetrical emotional expressions, however, were about equally divided between those stronger on the left side of the face and those stronger on the right. Similar findings were obtained for the actions involved in negative emotions, but a small data base made these results tentative.
Applications of linear functionals to Kronecker modules. II

Abstract Let K be an algebraically closed field. A height function on K is a map from K to the nonnegative integers with infinity adjoined. Height functions arise in the classification of rank-one K[X]-modules, i.e., the submodules of the module of rational functions K(X) over the polynomial ring K[X]. In this paper, for each positive integer r⩾2, a class of modules E r is built from height functions h, sequences of positive integers (m2,…,mr-1), and sequences of linear functionals L = (l2,…,lr) on K(X). The class E r includes all purely simple Kronecker modules of rank r. A Krull-Schmidt-type theorem is proved for E r. For θϵK, let α(θ) = (l2(X - θ)−1,…,lr(X − θ)−1). A module M constructed from α is a direct sum of rank-one modules, i.e., completely decomposable, if α assumes only r values; M is indecomposable if α assumes only r+1 values. When a module M in E r is purely simple, it is shown that α agrees with any rational function on only a finite set and the power series arising from l2,…,lr are not expansions of rational functions. If r = 2 these necessary conditions are also sufficient for M to be purely simple.
The Prevalence and Treatment of Voiding Dysfunction in the Elderly

Voiding dysfunction is estimated to be present in more than half of the elderly population. Age-related changes to the lower urinary tract predispose geriatric patients to urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, nocturia, bladder outlet obstruction, and detrusor hyperreflexia with impaired contractility. Urinary symptoms can also be caused by neurogenic disease such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia. Regardless of the etiology, voiding dysfunction in older patients is associated with dangerous comorbidities, including falls, and its presence can decrease quality of life. For this reason, identification and subsequent treatment is necessary. Treatment should be tailored to each individual patient, starting with behavioral modifications before proceeding to pharmacologic and surgical therapy.
15 Otitis externa associated with aquatic activities (swimmer's ear)

Infections of the ear canal may vary in terms of severity. Their frequency and morbidity qualify them as significant aquatic problems. The aquatic environment adds the conditional variable of moisture to the ear canal. Usually bacteria are introduced with the moisture and in the warm environment of the canal multiply, generate debris, invade the canal lining, and generate the symptoms of otitis externa. Fortunately, the incidence of this condition can be minimized by eliminating moisture in the canal. In situations where excessive moisture is likely to be introduced such as in swimmers, scuba divers, and deep sea divers the prophylactic measures of desiccation and acidification of the canal should be used. They are very effective. In the saturation diver, ear canal infections are not likely to resolve without interruption of diving activities. Individuals who have recurring ear canal infections require evaluation by an ear specialist to identify possible remedial problems that can trigger infection. Correction of anatomical problems or underlying dermatoses can prevent recurrences of OE.
Colon absorption of water and NaCl in the rat during lactation and the possible involvement of prolactin.

The absorption of water and NaCl by the ascending colon of female rats was significantly increased by prolactin treatment in virgin rats and during suckled lactation. Bromocriptine treatment of lactating rats resulted in decreased colonic absorption, suggesting that increased prolactin secretion may be responsible for the enhanced colonic absorption seen during lactation.
Analysis of temperature-programmed reduction profiles from metal-supported catalysts

Abstract An experimental procedure is proposed to enable analysis of H2 emission/consumption data obtained during temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) of a metal-supported catalyst. Using the methods described allows one to account for chemical processes other than reduction and thus remove their contribution from the TPR profile. The resulting “real” TPR spectrum is a signature that reflects only reduction processes that occur under nonisothermal conditions. To demonstrate the methodology, Pt, Ir, and Pt Ir supported on alumina have been characterized. The real TPR profile of the bimetallic catalyst is not the simple superposition of the reduction spectra of the monometallics. This observation has generally been considered indicative of some type of alloy-phase formation. On the other hand, had the hydrogen emission/consumption data been used directly, the same conclusion would be tenuous.
121 ALGINATE-FIBRIN GEL MATRIX PROMOTES IN VITRO GROWTH OF DOG SECONDARY FOLLICLES

A previous study from our laboratory has demonstrated that preantral follicles from the dog that are cultured in alginate are able to grow and produce steroid hormones (Songsasen et al. 2011 Reproduction 142, 113–122). Here we investigated the influence of using a combination of alginate and a degradable biomaterial, fibrin, on dog follicle development in vitro. We hypothesised that the alginate and fibrin gel matrix would be superior to alginate alone because the former has dynamic mechanical properties that permit more expansive follicle development than the inert alginate-only system. Secondary follicles (128–220 μm in diameter) were collected from the ovaries of 4 prepubertal dogs ( 0.05) in follicle survival between the 2 groups (27.0 and 38.1% for alginate and alginate-fibrin, respectively). Results demonstrate that a dynamic alginate-fibrin matrix enhances in vitro follicle growth. We suspect that the mechanism involved is related to facilitating expansion capacity. Specifically, it is likely that nondegradable alginate offers physical, but eventually restrictive, support to encapsulated cells. By contrast, in the gel combination, the fibrin degrades due to cell-secreted proteases that, in turn, permit more robust follicle expansion. Low follicle survival (<40%) in both treatments emphasises the need for more studies to identify influential endocrine/paracrine factors that enhance follicle growth and production of competent oocytes. Funded by NIH-KO1RR020564.
Soft X-ray induced darkening of glass surfaces

Abstract A study of the coloration of glass surfaces induced by soft X-rays was made using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and optical absorption measurements. Sodium was found to be the dominant metal impurity in the glass that exhibits the surface coloration. An analysis of the relative atomic concentration of the impurity shows an increase of sodium with increasing exposure of the glass surface to the soft X-rays. The results suggest that the color-center sites involve trapped photoelectrons near the surface region, which can cause mobile sodium ions to move toward the exposed glass surface.
Emergence of dual VEGF and PDGF antagonists in the treatment of exudative age-related macular degeneration

Neovascular (‘wet’) age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness among Caucasians over the age of 55 in the USA and is an important cause of ocular morbidity worldwide. Progress in oncology, and more recently ophthalmology, led to the development of VEGF antagonists, three of which are now approved for the treatment of wet AMD. Recent discoveries in ophthalmology and vascular biology, however, suggest that combined inhibition of VEGF and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) may be more beneficial than inhibition of VEGF alone. Accordingly, numerous studies are underway to evaluate the role of anti-VEGF/PDGF combination therapies for the treatment of wet AMD. This review discusses the biology of VEGF and PDGF and current preclinical and clinical data exploring the use of combined VEGF/PDGF inhibitors in the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration.
Inescapable footshock exposure differentially alters antigen- and mitogen-stimulated spleen cell proliferation in rats.

Abstract A variety of stressors have been shown to influence specific and non-specific measures of immune function in laboratory animals. One of the most common tools used to evaluate lymphocyte function is the non-specific mitogen proliferation assay. Assessment of this function in the rat spleen has revealed profound suppression following restraint, electric shock, and re-exposure of animals to a fearful context. However, there have been no studies that have compared the effects of stressor exposure on mitogen- and specific antigen-stimulated spleen cell proliferation. Therefore, the present study addressed this issue through experiments in which rats were immunized intraperitoneally with 1 μg cholera toxin and exposed to acute (one session) or repeated (three consecutive daily sessions) footshock. The results showed that footshock exposure prior to immunization inhibited cholera toxin stimulated spleen cell proliferation 7 days after immunization. Acute or repeated footshock exposure 5–7 days after cholera toxin immunization depressed non-specific spleen cell proliferation, while augmenting the proliferative response to specific antigen. From these observations it can be hypothesized that footshock exposure either differentially regulates lymphocyte activation by clonal and polyclonal signals, and /or naive and memory cells react differently to stressor exposure.
Heroin addicts and methadone treatment in Albuquerque: a 22-year follow-up

All heroin addicts who registered for methadone treatment in Albuquerque in 1969-1971, 1019 in all, were the subjects of this follow-up study, conducted in 1991-1993. The cohort was almost entirely of Hispanic (Chicano) ethnicity, 86% male, with median age 27 at entry. We located 776, dead or alive, and we were able to interview 243 concerning many aspects of their lives. At least one-third of the original group had died during the 22-year period, representing standard mortality ratios 4.0 for males and 6.8 for females. Drug overdose, violence, alcohol, or suicide accounted for nearly all deaths of which the causes were known. Despite the availability of treatment, including methadone maintenance, both heroin use and criminality continued at a high rate. Of the 428 known survivors, 48% were currently enrolled in a methadone program after 22 years. They were using significantly less heroin, alcohol, and other drugs (except nicotine) than those not on methadone. Similar beneficial effects of methadone maintenance were reported retrospectively at interview. Our findings offer an insight into heroin addiction as a chronic lifelong relapsing disease with a high fatality rate.
Spontaneous and inducible ventricular arrhythmias after myocardial infarction in mice.

Abstract Introduction Remodeling of gap junctions has been implicated in development of ventricular arrhythmias following myocardial infarction (MI) but the specific contribution of reduced electrical coupling is not known. We addressed this question using hearts from mice heterozygous for a connexin43 null allele (Cx43 +/− ). Methods To determine whether Cx43-deficient mice exhibit increased spontaneous ventricular arrhythmias in the setting of chronic ischemic heart disease, radiofrequency transmitters were implanted in wild-type and Cx43 +/− mice 2 days or 9 weeks after left anterior descending coronary artery ligation or sham operations. ECGs were recorded from unanesthetized, unrestrained mice 1 and 10 weeks after MI. Isolated, perfused hearts excised 1 and 10 weeks after MI were subjected to programmed electrical stimulation to induce arrhythmias. Results and conclusions Hearts with infarcts exhibited more spontaneous and inducible arrhythmias, but there was no significant difference between wild-type and Cx43-deficient mice. Fewer hearts exhibited spontaneous ventricular tachycardia (VT) in vivo than were inducible in vitro, suggesting that structural and functional substrates for inducible VT in isolated hearts may not be sufficient for initiation and maintenance of sustained VT in vivo. Previous studies have shown that Cx43-deficient mice exhibit more VT than wild-type mice during acute regional ischemia. Mice with MI exhibit increased arrhythmias. However, reduced coupling in Cx43-deficient mice does not significantly enhance spontaneous or inducible VT after MI.
Abstract 4185: Isolation of cancer stem-like cells from a novel orthotopic xenograt model of supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumor that is susceptible to oncolytic Seneca Valley Virus

Purpose: Supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) accounts for 2-3% of all pediatric brain tumors. Despite multimodality therapies, the clinical outcome remains poor, and the 5-year progression free survival rate is less than 40%. Clinically relevant animal models are needed for understanding tumor biology and developing more effective therapies. Here we report our recent development of a clinically relevant animal model, isolation and characterization of cancer stem-like cells in the xenograft tumors, and preclinical investigation of the antitumor efficacy of a novel picorna oncolytic virus Seneca Valley Virus-001 (SVV-001) both in vitro and vivo, especially in cancer stem-like cells. Experimental Design: Orthotopic xenograft mouse model was developed by direct injection of 105 tumor cells from a freshly resected brain PNET tumor specimen into the right cerebrum of Rag2/severe combined immunodeficient mice. CD133+ cells were quantitatively analyzed and isolated with FACS using human-specific antibodies against CD133. Antitumor activity of SVV-001was evaluated in vitro in cultured xenograft tumor cells and in vivo in mice bearing pre-formed xenograft tumors. Results: A novel transplantable PNET xenograft model IC-2664PNT was established. The xenograft tumors not only replicate the biologic phenotypes but also preserve cancer stem-like cell pools. The IC-2664PNET neurospheres, which expressed high levels of CD133 and nestin, were efficiently infected and killed by SVV-001 (0.5-25 virus particle/ cell). A single tail vein injection of SVV-001 (5×1012 virus particle/kg) prolonged survival time of PNET xenograft model. Conclusions: We have established the first clinically relevant animal model for childhood supratentorial PNET. It replicated the major histopathological features of the original patient tumor, and preserved a CD133+ stem cells pool during serial subtransplantations. SVV-001 has potent antitumor efficacy in PNET, especially selectively kill cancer stem-like cells, and prolong survival in vivo. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4185.
Recovery of phosphonate surface contaminants from glass using a simple vacuum extractor with a solid-phase microextraction fiber

Recovery of chemical contaminants from fixed surfaces for analysis can be challenging, particularly if it is not possible to acquire a solid sample to be taken to the laboratory. A simple device is described that collects semi-volatile organic compounds from fixed surfaces by creating an enclosed volume over the surface, then generating a modest vacuum. A solid-phase microextraction (SPME) fiber is then inserted into the evacuated volume where it functions to sorb volatilized organic contaminants. The device is based on a syringe modified with a seal that is used to create the vacuum, with a perforable plunger through which the SPME fiber is inserted. The reduced pressure speeds partitioning of the semi-volatile compounds into the gas phase and reduces the boundary layer around the SPME fiber, which enables a fraction of the volatilized organics to partition into the SPME fiber. After sample collection, the SPME fiber is analyzed using conventional gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The methodology has been used to collect organophosphorus compounds from glass surfaces, to provide a simple test for the functionality of the devices. Thirty minute sampling times (ΔT(vac)) resulted in fractional recovery efficiencies that ranged from 10(-3) to >10(-2), and in absolute terms, collection of low nanograms was demonstrated. Fractional recovery values were positively correlated to the vapor pressure of the compounds being sampled. Fractional recovery also increased with increasing ΔT(vac) and displayed a roughly logarithmic profile, indicating that an operational equilibrium is being approached. Fractional recovery decreased with increasing time between exposure and sampling; however, recordable quantities of the phosphonates could be collected three weeks after exposure.
Thermal vestige of the zero-temperature jamming transition.

When the packing fraction is increased sufficiently, loose particulates jam to form a rigid solid in which the constituents are no longer free to move. In typical granular materials and foams, the thermal energy is too small to produce structural rearrangements. However, because thermal motion becomes relevant when the particles are small enough, it is imperative to understand the behaviour as the temperature is increased. Zhang et al. use both colloidal experiments and computer simulations to investigate the overlap distance between neighbouring particles beyond the zero-temperature limit. They find that this quantity evolves in an unusual manner, retaining a vestige of its zero-temperature behaviour. When the packing fraction is increased sufficiently, loose particulates jam together to form a rigid solid in which the constituents are no longer free to move. Although in typical granular materials and foams the thermal energy is too small to produce structural rearrangements, thermal motion becomes relevant when the particles are small enough. Here, colloidal experiments and computer simulations are used to investigate the overlap distance between neighbouring particles beyond the zero-temperature limit, revealing some surprising behaviour. When the packing fraction is increased sufficiently, loose particulates jam to form a rigid solid in which the constituents are no longer free to move. In typical granular materials and foams, the thermal energy is too small to produce structural rearrangements. In this zero-temperature (T = 0) limit, multiple diverging1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 and vanishing2,9,10 length scales characterize the approach to a sharp jamming transition. However, because thermal motion becomes relevant when the particles are small enough, it is imperative to understand how these length scales evolve as the temperature is increased. Here we used both colloidal experiments and computer simulations to progress beyond the zero-temperature limit to track one of the key parameters—the overlap distance between neighbouring particles—which vanishes at the T = 0 jamming transition. We find that this structural feature retains a vestige of its T = 0 behaviour and evolves in an unusual manner, which has masked its appearance until now. It is evident as a function of packing fraction at fixed temperature, but not as a function of temperature at fixed packing fraction or pressure. Our results conclusively demonstrate that length scales associated with the T = 0 jamming transition persist in thermal systems, not only in simulations but also in laboratory experiments.
GTP influences the binding of vincristine in human tumor cytosols.

Abstract The influence of GTP on the formation and stability of [3H]vincristine (VCR)-tubulin complexes in cytosols from two human rhabdomyosarcoma xenografts which have different sensitivities to VCR has been evaluated. After removal of endogenous GTP the initial rate of [3H]VCR binding and the maximal level of bound drug were 2- to 3-fold higher in the presence of 0.1 mM GTP than in its absence. Similarly, the stability of complexes was GTP-dependent. Complex formed from Rh18 tumors, only moderately sensitive to VCR, dissociated at 37° in the absence of GTP with a half-time of 67 min; complex from Rh12 tumors (exquisitely sensitive to VCR) was more stable. Neither complex dissociated in the presence of 0.1 mM GTP over 2 hr examined.
An Alternative Process Model of Preferential Contaminant Travel Times in the Unsaturated Zone: Application to Rainier Mesa and Shoshone Mountain, Nevada

Simulating contaminant transport in unsaturated zones with sparse hydraulic property information is a difficult, yet common, problem. When contaminant transport may occur via preferential flow, simple modeling approaches can provide predictions of interest, such as the first arrival of contaminant, with minimal site characterization. The conceptual model for unsaturated zone flow at Rainier Mesa and Shoshone Mountain, Nevada National Security Site, establishes the possibility of preferential flow through lithologies between potential radionuclide sources and the saturated zone. After identifying preferential flow as a possible contaminant transport process, we apply a simple model to estimate first arrival times for conservatively transported radionuclides to reach the saturated zone. Simulated preferential flow travel times at Rainier Mesa are tens to hundreds of years for non-ponded water sources and 1 to 2 months for continuously ponded water sources; first arrival times are approximately twice as long at Shoshone Mountain. These first arrival time results should then be viewed as a worst-case scenario but not necessarily as a timescale for a groundwater-contamination hazard, because concentrations may be very low. The alternative approach demonstrated here for estimating travel times can be useful in situations where predictions are needed by managers for the fastest arrival of contaminants, yet budgetary or time constraints preclude more rigorous analysis, and when additional model estimates are needed for comparison (i.e., model abstraction).
Polyaniline-based nanocomposite materials for hydrogen storage

Nanomaterials have diverse tunable physical properties as a function of their size and shape due to strong quantum confinement effect and large surface to volume ratio. On basis of these facts, nanocomposite materials can be considered as strong candidates for hydrogen storage. In the present work, we report a novel conducting polymeric nanocomposite material for hydrogen storage. Conducting polymer-based nanocomposites were modified using carbon nanotubes as filler material. This further increased the porous structure of the nanocomposite and the number of binding sites, which in turn enhances the hydrogen storage capacity. Additionally, fine aluminum powder was added to the polymeric nanocomposite, which further increased the hydrogen sorption of the material. The modified conducting polymeric nanocomposites were characterized with various analytical techniques including FTIR, DSC, TGA and SEM. Adsorption and desorption experiments are conducted using a Sieverts-type volumetric PCT instrument. Further experiments are in progress to understand the hydrogen storage mechanism in the proposed conducting polymer nanocomposites.
Rheological evaluation of Mozzarella cheese by uniaxial horizontal extension

Rheological properties of low-moisture part-skim Mozarella cheese were evaluated as a function of storage time, test temperature, and deformation rate by uniaxial extension in a horizontal plane. Proteolysis of Mozzarella cheese caused marked decreases in the tensile strength and the deformability modulus, but not in the fracture strain. As the temperature increased from 10 to 40C, the fracture strain increased more than five-fold. The strength and the deformability modulus decreased about 60 and 85%, respectively, as the cheese temperature increased from 10 to 30C. The fracture strain of the cheese did not exhibit a clear trend with the deformation rate in the range of 50–500 mm/min. However, its strength and deformability modulus increased with the increasing deformation rate.
Heat pipe augmented passive solar system for heating of buildings

A passive solar heating system was built using heat pipes bonded to the absorbing surface of a solar collector mounted on the south wall of a building. The heat pipes provided one-way heat transfer from the absorber through the insulated wall of the building to water tanks placed inside the space to be heated. The space was then heated by means of natural convection from the surfaces of the tank. The evaporator and condenser ends of the heat pipe were designed to be connected by means of a flexible hose so that the system could be retrofit to an existing building. Simulations were carried out to match the experimental and simulated results. The conductance values obtained as a result of matching showed good agreement with theoretically calculated values. Potential performance improvements were identified, including increased liquid fill fraction in the heat pipes and increasing the heat transfer surface area of the water tanks at the condenser end of the pipe.
Triadic proteins of skeletal muscle.

Biochemical approaches toward understanding the mechanism of muscle excitation have in recent years been directed to identification and isolation of proteins of the triad junction. The principal protein described—the junctional foot protein (JFP)—was initially identified by morphological criteria and isolated using antibody-affinity chromatography. Subsequently this protein was described as the ryanodine receptor. It has been isolated and incorporated into lipid bilayers as a cation channel. This in its turn has directed attention toward the transverse (T)-tubular junctional constituents. Three approaches employing the JFP as a probe toward identifying these moieties on the T-tubule are described here. The binding of the JFP to the dihydropyridine receptor, which has been hypothesized to be the voltage sensor in excitation-contraction coupling, is also discussed. The detailed architecture and function of T-tubular proteins remain to be resolved.