cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Strategy for Industrial Scale Production of Dideoxyinosine: Enzymatic Deamination of Dideoxyadenosine by Adenosine Deaminase

Abstract A procedure has been devised for the production of dideoxyinosine (ddI) in high yield and purity. The method employs adenosine deaminase to deaminate 2′,3′-dideoxyadenosine (ddA) to ddI. On the basis of systematic evaluation of various reaction conditions, a substrate concentration of 0.5 M ddA and an enzyme concentration of 5.6 units per ml were selected, and all buffers were eliminated. Under these conditions ddA was quantitatively converted to ddI within 4 hrs. Addition of 25% DMSO to the reaction facilitated the isolation of ddI as a result of the differential solubilities of the product and substrate, but did not affect the enzymatic reaction. An industrial scale reaction has been designed on the basis of the data presented.
Mineralogical comparison of agriculturally acidified and naturally acidic soils

Abstract Soil acidification and accelerated mineral weathering as a result of N fertilization may result in a soil solution silica activity that favors the formation of short-range-order aluminosilicates, thereby sequestering Al. Furthermore, soils formed in alluviums of differing lithology may partition Al3+ into different pools. We hypothesized that parent material silica content controls solution silica concentrations and short-range-order aluminosilicate formation, thereby controlling solution Al3+ activity. As a result, we expected mineralogy to follow alteration pathways toward the minerals found in weathered naturally acidic (acidic) soils. To test this hypothesis, we compared the mineral assemblages in nonacidified (NA), agriculturally acidified (AA) and acidic soils formed in sialic, mafic, and mixed alluvium. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that the clay fraction bulk mineralogy of AA soils is similar to their NA counterparts, but in every case, clay activity, as measured by CEC/clay, was reduced by the acidification process, a trend consistent with mineral alteration trajectories toward the acidic, weathered soils. A combination of selective dissolution and CEC measurements suggested that precipitation of short-range-order hydroxy-Al and aluminosilicates were the dominant mechanisms that control solution Al. In the AA soil derived from sialic parent material, hydroxy-Al was the largest Al pool. In the agriculturally acidified soil derived from mafic parent materials, the short-range-order aluminosilicate fraction was the dominant Al pool. Aluminum sinks in AA soils with mixed lithology were dominated by hydroxy-Al and exchangeable Al. We speculate that “free” (noninterlayer) hydroxy-Al may be a significant Al sink in the AA soils. Our results suggest that short-range-order aluminosilicates play some role in controlling soil solution Al activity, but the higher silica content of the parent material did not correlate directly with increased abundance of short-range-order aluminosilicate compounds in acidified soils. This research on soil acidification provides new information on how ammonium fertilization affects the chemical aspects of soil quality, in particular, the partitioning of Al to solid phases that may not be in equilibrium with the bulk clay mineralogy.
Telemanagement of heart failure: A diuretic treatment algorithm for advanced practice nurses

Thirty-three percent of patients with heart failure (HF) are readmitted to the hospital with worsening disease within 90 days of discharge. Acute decompensation accounts for nearly 50% of these admissions because of nonadherence with diet guidelines, medication regimens, or both. One way to promote adherence is through a disease management approach that can prevent HF decompensation by providing aggressive follow-up care. Within such an approach, advanced practice nurses can use a decision algorithm to implement pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions. This article presents a diuretic treatment algorithm for advanced practice nurses as part of a telemanagement program. Preliminary data from the implementation of such an algorithm within an established HF program shows a decrease in hospitalizations rates and cost of care. In addition, the algorithm helps define the scope of advanced practice nursing and promotes consistency across health care sites.
The effects of written autobiographical recollection induction procedures on mood

This study assessed the effects of group induction procedures that are practical in their administration (written format) and also individualized. Fifty-four females and 36 males were assigned randomly to one of three conditions. Conditions One and Two consisted of subjects being asked to think of the two saddest or two happiest events of their lives, respectively. Condition Three consisted of a control condition in which subjects were asked to read a geography article. The procedure produced marked decreases in depression (p < .001) and anxiety (p = .001) as mood states in Condition One (happy events) and marked increases in depression (p < .001) and anxiety (p < .001) in Condition Two (sad events). These procedures are particularly suitable for mood induction in a group setting.
Discussing on Trend to Efficient Market Hypothesis of Securities and Futures Market

The efficient market hypothesis (EMH) developed through centuries has become an important basis for the analysis of financial market theory, EMH separates market into three types, namely strong efficient, half-strong efficient and weak efficient. But in practice it has caused much controversy. It is proved by positive analysis that most financial markets are weak efficient (only one among the three types) or still haven’ t reached this level, and it’ s clear that it is hardly conducive to grasping the precise state of the market movement. The trend to efficient market hypothesis (TEMH) shows that market trends to efficiency; that is, the market has a trend towards an equilibrium determined by the strong efficient market, rather than maintain at an equilibrium position. And through breaking markets into factors that affect a market, it reveals the inherent regularity of the trend to efficiency, which may reasonably explain the controversial financial phenomenon, and as well can blend with a variety of mainstreams of the present financial research.
Robust entropy-guided image segmentation for ground detection in GPR

Identifying the ground within a ground penetrating radar (GPR) image is a critical component of automatic and assisted target detection systems. As these systems are deployed to more challenging environments they encounter rougher terrain and less-ideal data, both of which can cause standard ground detection methods to fail. This paper presents a means of improving the robustness of ground detection by adapting a technique from image processing in which images are segmented by local entropy. This segmentation provides the rough location of the air-ground interface, which can then act as a “guide” for more precise but fragile techniques. The effectiveness of this two-step “coarse/fine” entropyguided detection strategy is demonstrated on GPR data from very rough terrain, and its application beyond the realm of GPR data processing is discussed.
Classification and obscuration effects in quasars and galaxies of the CDF-N

Abstract We present a classification scheme for Chandra Deep Field-North (CDF-N) sources with spectroscopic redshifts based upon their broadband spectral energy distributions. A substantial fraction of the faint sources can be identified as normal/star-forming galaxies. The AGN in the sample divide into four classes: luminous, apparently unabsorbed QSOs; objects with reddened optical spectra and no signs of X-ray absorption; apparently X-ray absorbed AGN with no signs of reddening in their optical spectra; and optically reddened sources with X-ray spectra indicative of substantial obscuration. The observed column density distribution for the complete sample shows a significant rise of the number of sources with N H > 10 22.5 cm −2 when we include objects fainter than f 0.5–8.0 keV = 3.0 × 10 −15 erg s −1 cm −2 . Our results indicate that a full X-ray spectral analysis of the complete sample is crucial in mapping out the underlying absorbing column density distribution, and thus the effects of obscuration on the number counts and luminosity functions.
Differential effect of metals/metalloids on the growth and element uptake of mesquite plants obtained from plants grown at a copper mine tailing and commercial seeds.

Abstract The selection of appropriate seeds is essential for the success of phytoremediation/restoration projects. In this research, the growth and elements uptake by the offspring of mesquite plants (Prosopis sp.) grown in a copper mine tailing (site seeds, SS) and plants derived from vendor seeds (VS) was investigated. Plants were grown in a modified Hoagland solution containing a mixture of Cu, Mo, Zn, As(III) and Cr(VI) at 0, 1, 5 and 10 mg L−1 each. After one week, plants were harvested and the concentration of elements was determined by using ICP-OES. At 1 mg L−1, plants originated from SS grew faster and longer than control plants (0 mg L−1); whereas plants grown from VS had opposite response. At 5 mg L−1, 50% of the plants grown from VS did not survive, while plants grown from SS had no toxicity effects on growth. Finally, plants grown from VS did not survive at 10 mg L−1 treatment, whilst 50% of the plants grown from SS survived. The ICP-OES data demonstrated that at 1 mg L−1 the concentration of all elements in SS plants was significantly higher compared to control plants and VS plants. While at 5 mg L−1, the shoots of SS plants had significantly more Cu, Mo, As, and Cr. The results suggest that SS could be a better source of plants intended to be used for phytoremediation of soil impacted with Cu, Mo, Zn, As and Cr.
Bioactivity-Guided Fractionation and GC/MS Fingerprinting of Angelica sinensis and Angelica archangelica Root Components for Antifungal and Mosquito Deterrent Activity

Bioassay-guided fractionation of the chloroform extract from the roots of Angelica sinensis led to isolation and characterization of (Z)-ligustilide using direct-bioautography with Colletotrichum species. The structure of (Z)-ligustilide was confirmed by (1)H and (13)C NMR spectroscopy and GC/MS. (Z)-Ligustilide deterred the biting of two mosquito species more effectively than DEET. Three different A. sinensis accessions and one Angelica archangelica root oil were evauated by GC and GC/MS, and the dominant component in A. sinensis was 61-69% (Z)-ligustilide. Two other prominent compounds in A. sinensis oils were 5.7-9.8% (E)-3-butylidene phthalide and 1.5-2.3% (Z)-3-butylidene phthalide. The main constituents that comprised A. archangelica oil were monoterpene hydrocarbons such as 24.5% alpha-pinene, 13.8% delta-3-carene, 10.1% beta-phellandrene, 8.8% p-cymene, 8.4% limonene, and 6.3% sabinene. Phthalides and monoterpene hydrocarbons were determined to be good systematic markers or chemical fingerprints for A. sinensis and A. archangelica root oils. Chemical fingerprinting by GC/MS of A. sinensis also confirmed the misidentification of one A. archangelica sample sold in the Chinese market.
Selective Incision of the alpha-N-Methyl-Formamidopyrimidine Anomer by Escherichia coli Endonuclease IV.

Formamidopyrimidines (Fapy) lesions result from ring opening of the imidazole portion of purines. Fapy lesions can isomerize from the natural <path id="x1D6FD" d="M558 587q0 -32 -14 -61t-40 -53.5t-48.5 -41t-54.5 -36.5q144 -51 144 -174q0 -55 -43.5 -108t-104.5 -87q-77 -42 -131 -42q-31 0 -54 20t-31 47l11 18q48 -29 108 -29q79 0 119.5 43t40.5 109t-44.5 107.5t-119.5 50.5l22 47q34 1 65 21q96 61 96 157q0 42 -24 67.5 t-62 25.5q-24 0 -43.5 -9t-35 -29.5t-27 -44t-22.5 -63t-19.5 -75.5t-18.5 -91q-57 -294 -68 -380q-26 -190 -35 -200q-26 -31 -97 -37l-4 26q19 9 48 170l77 413q23 121 52.5 187.5t83.5 114.5q70 62 148 62q51 0 88.5 -34t37.5 -91z" /> -anomeric stereochemistry to the -configuration. We have unambiguously demonstrated that the -methyl-Fapy-dG (MeFapy-dG) lesion is a substrate for Escherichia coli Endonuclease IV (Endo IV). Treatment of a MeFapy-dG-containing 24 mer duplex with Endo IV resulted in 36–40% incision. The catalytic efficiency of the incision was comparable to that of -dG in the same duplex sequence. The - and -MeFapy-dG anomers equilibrate to ~21 : 79 ratio over ~3 days. Related studies with a duplex containing the -Fapy-dG lesion derived from aflatoxin B 1 epoxide ( -AFB-Fapy-dG) showed only low levels of incision. It is hypothesized that the steric bulk of the aflatoxin moiety interferes with the binding of the substrate to Endo IV and the incision chemistry.
Modulation of Hepatitis C Virus RNA Abundance and the Isoprenoid Biosynthesis Pathway by MicroRNA miR-122 Involves Distinct Mechanisms

MicroRNA 122 (miR-122) promotes hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA abundance through a direct interaction with the viral RNA and stimulates the mevalonate pathway in the animal liver. We found that overexpression of miR-122 enhanced viral RNA accumulation without affecting genes in the mevalonate pathway, such as the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) gene. However, inhibition of miR-122 decreased both HCV RNA and HMGCR RNA with little effects on the rates of HCV and HMGCR RNA synthesis. Loss of HCV RNA could not be restored by isoprenoid intermediate metabolites. Overall, these findings suggest that miR-122 modulates viral RNA abundance independently of its effect on isoprenoid metabolism.
A matrix method for calculating the source function, mean intensity, and flux in a model atmosphere

Matrix method for calculating source function, mean intensity, and flux in model stellar atmosphere
Total Cystectomy ‐ A Review

Summary— Analysis of 99 total cystectomies for malignant disease over a 1O-year period in one unit has been carried out, in order to clarify the place of the operation in the overall management of the disease and to assess the quality of life in the patients so treated.
Stress and health-related well-being among mothers with a low birth weight infant: the role of sleep.

This U.S.A.-based study examined the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of sleep, as well as the role of sleep, in the association of stress with depression, fatigue, and health-related quality of life (H-QOL) among mothers with a low-birth-weight, preterm infant in the neonatal intensive care unit at early postpartum. Fifty-five first-time mothers kept a sleep diary and filled out a battery of questionnaires. The wrist actigraphy method was also applied to collect information on maternal sleep. We tested a path model, with sleep disturbance and depression mediating the effect of stress on health-related well-being. Results showed that the majority of the study participants were stressed, depressed, fatigued, and at risk for poor physical and mental health. Poor sleep quality as perceived by mothers was significantly associated with their stress, fatigue, and poor mental and physical H-QOL. A cascading effect was found in the path model where maternal stress contributed to poor sleep quality and depression, which in turn contributed to poor mental H-QOL. In addition, poor sleep quality was associated with fatigue, which in turn contributed to poor physical and mental H-QOL. The underlying neurobiological mechanisms through which sleep affects the stress–health relation are discussed. The implications of sleep for intervention and prevention are also addressed.
Perinatal toxicity of endrin in rodents. II. Fetotoxic effects of prenatal exposure in rats and mice

The fetotoxic potential of endrin in the CD rat and CD-1 mouse was investigated. Endrin was administered as a solution in corn oil to groups of pregnant animals by gastric intubation at multiple dose levels throughout the period of organogenesis. The dams were sacrificed prior to term and the fetuses were examined for skeletal and visceral anomalies. In addition, maternal livers and fetuses from rats in each dose level were analyzed for endrin content. In the mouse, endrin caused maternal liver enlargement at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg/day and reduced maternal weight gain at a dose of 1.0 mg/kg/day. Fetal weight and skeletal and visceral maturity were adversely affected at a dose of 1.0 mg/kg/day, but no teratogenic effect or embryo lethality was evident even at a dose level that produced maternal lethality (1.5 mg/kg/day). In the rat, endrin markedly reduced maternal weight at doses above 0.150 mg/kg/day but produced no apparent effects on the fetus. The data suggest that species differences in sensitivity to endrin may in part be due to differences in metabolism. Although endrin levels in rat fetuses at a maximally tolerated dosage level resembled those previously reported for the hamster, relatively less 12-ketoendrin was present, paralleling the change in fetal sensitivity.
Automation of the nonrelativistic ϕ3 field theory in two spatial dimensions

Abstract Both symbol manipulation and numerical techniques are used to automate the calculations in a nonrelativistic ϕ 3 theory in two spatial dimensions. This work applies primarily to the n -loop expansion. The system performed an entire 3-loop calculation in a perturbative orderindependent fashion, that is, generated graphs and the corresponding algebraic expressions, located and manipulated divergent subgraphs, did Feynman parameterization and analytic integration of momentum variables, and did the modifications for the vertex case and the numerical integration of the Feynman parameterization integrals. Since the system is implemented in FORTRAN it can be used almost anywhere. It can be used to facilitate both research and instruction in physics.
When does a difference make a difference? MMPI scores and African-Americans.

The group difference MMPI literature relevant to African-Americans was reexamined for major methodological issues including the criteria used for ethnic/racial group membership and socioeconomic status. These issues are of sufficient magnitude to question the traditional scientific methods used in MMPI research and the current interpretations of African-American MMPI profiles. This cultural variance can be identified in item content and consistent scale elevations for African-American samples. The magnitude of cultural variance has been found to vary across samples. Recent empirical data indicate that such variance may be appreciable and significant for African-Americans who are in process of realizing a distinct cultural identity as evidenced by racial consciousness and moderator variables.
SNAP: A Computer Language for Control of Psychoacoustic Experiments*

A real-time programming language is described which contains specialized statements for the control of auditory experiments including routine audiometric tests. The program statements correspond closely to prose descriptions of the experimental contingencies making it an easy language to learn and to use. Programs may be prepared and compiled using standard small computer software, and the only specialized program required is a real-time interpreter. Provisions are made for monitoring the experiment in progress and for making any desired changes in the experimental parameters. The language has been implemented on a 4K PDPL Lehigh Valley: INTERACT; Texas Instrument: 960A SYSTEM). The language which will be described in the present paper, SNAP (State Notation in Auditory Psychophysics), is one we have developed which has some of the features of the languages mentioned but which was written for the specific purpose of controlling psychoacoustic experiments. Although our requirements were to control behavioral tests in nonhuman primates (.?), the language itself is entirely suitable for use with humans.
Developmental change in reversal learning of an olfactory discrimination

We examined developmental changes in the reversal of a learned discrimination in an olfactory conditioning paradigm in three experiments. Preweanling rats were exposed to an odor (CS+) paired with footshock and a different odor (CS−) that was explicitly unpaired with footshock. The rats were then immediately tested for their preference between the CS+ and CS− odors. In Experiment 1, animals trained at 12 or 18 days of age showed equivalent conditioned aversions to the CS+. When the significance of the cues was reversed, the younger animals showed rapid reversal learning; that is, their aversion to the original CS-I- was displaced by an aversion to the original CS−. However, the 18-day-old animals were slower to acquire discrimination reversal. In Experiment 2, a similar pattern of results emerged when animals were given separate preference tests involving the CS+ versus a novel odor, or the CS− versus a novel odor. In Experiment 3, intact 18-day-old rats and 18-day-olds with damage to the septum and fornix showed equivalent conditioned aversions to the CS+. In contrast to the intact animals, however, the lesioned rats showed rapid reversal of the discrimination, which resembled that of intact 12-day-olds. Thus, there appears to be a dramatic change in reversal learning of conditioned odor aversions in rats after the second week of postnatal life. These data are discussed with reference to the role of septo-hippocampal maturation in the ontogeny of olfactory learning.
On implied within-building constraints for machine layout

This research investigates the importance of the within-building constraints on the solution speed of the machine layout problem. The machine layout problem, or the more general facility layout problem, has been well studied. Often, practical constraints such as within-building constraints are ignored when the modeller is not space-restricted. This research develops an ‘implied’ within-building constraint for the single-row machine layout model. The incorporation of such constraints may assist layout planners in obtaining higher quality (or known-quality) solutions within shorter planning periods. The impact of the constraint is assessed in several ways. First, the constraint is evaluated on several problems arising from the literature using the time to solution and objective function value as metrics using mixed-integer linear and nonlinear formulations. In addition, statistical assessments are made using the time to solution and objective function value metrics.
Pressure gradients in porous catalyst pellets in the intermediate diffusion regime

Abstract Conditions under which pressure gradients might be expected in porous catalyst pellets are investigated and a priori bounds on the magnitude of the pressure variations are obtained for the limiting cases of bulk diffusion control and Knudsen diffusion control. Two previous investigations of the effect of neglecting pressure gradients in calculating the effectiveness factor are compared critically, and a third procedure is suggested which avoids inconsistencies inherent in the earlier work and appears to give a better approximation.
Mitogen-induced oscillations of cytosolic Ca2+ and transmembrane Ca2+ current in human leukemic T cells.

Abstract A rapid rise in the level of cytosolic free calcium ([Ca2+]i) is believed to be one of several early triggering signals in the activation of T lymphocytes by antigen. Although Ca2+ release from intracellular stores and its contribution to Ca2+ signaling in many cell types is well documented, relatively little is known regarding the role and mechanism of Ca2+ entry across the plasma membrane. We have investigated mitogen-triggered Ca2+ signaling in individual cells of the human T-leukemia-derived line, Jurkat, using fura-2 imaging and patch-clamp recording techniques. Phytohemagglutinin (PHA), a mitogenic lectin, induces repetitive [Ca2+]i oscillations in these cells peaking at micromolar levels with a period of 90-120 s. The oscillations depend critically upon Ca2+ influx across the plasma membrane, as they are rapidly terminated by removal of extracellular Ca2+, addition of Ca(2+)-channel blockers such as Ni2+ or Cd2+, or membrane depolarization. Whole-cell and perforated-patch recording methods were combined with fura-2 measurements to identify the mitogen-activated Ca2+ conductance involved in this response. A small, highly selective Ca2+ conductance becomes activated spontaneously in whole-cell recordings and in response to PHA in perforated-patch experiments. This conductance has properties consistent with a role in T-cell activation, including activation by PHA, lack of voltage-dependent gating, inhibition by Ni2+ or Cd2+, and regulation by intracellular Ca2+. Moreover, a tight temporal correlation between oscillations of Ca2+ conductance and [Ca2+]i suggests a role for the membrane Ca2+ conductance in generating [Ca2+]i oscillations in activated T cells.
A Paradigm Shift in Trauma Resuscitation: Evaluation of Evolving Massive Transfusion Practices

Importance The evolution of damage control strategies has led to significant changes in the use of resuscitation after traumatic injury. Objective To evaluate changes in the administration of fluids and blood products, hypothesizing that a reduction in crystalloid volume and a reduced red blood cell (RBC) to fresh frozen plasma (FFP) ratio over the last 7 years would correlate with better resuscitation outcomes. Design Observational prospective cohort study. Setting Urban level I trauma center. Participants A total of 174 trauma patients receiving a massive transfusion (>10 units of RBCs in 24 hours) or requiring the activation of the institutional massive transfusion protocol from February 2005 to June 2011. Exposure Patients had to either receive a massive transfusion or require the activation of the institutional massive transfusion protocol. Main Outcomes and Measures In-hospital mortality. Results The mean (SD) Injury Severity Score was 28.4 (16.2), the mean (SD) base deficit was −9.8 (6.3), and median international normalized ratio was 1.3 (interquartile range, 1.2-1.6); the mortality rate was 40.8%. Patients received a median of 6.1 L of crystalloid, 13 units of RBCs, 10 units of FFP, and 1 unit of platelets over 24 hours, with a mean RBC:FFP ratio of 1.58:1. The mean 24-hour crystalloid infusion volume and number of the total blood product units given in the first 24 hours decreased significantly over the study period ( P P = .20). Injury severity and mortality remained stable over the study period. When adjusted for age and injury characteristics using Cox regression, each decrease of 0.1 achieved in the massive transfusion protocol’s RBC:FFP ratio was associated with a 5.6% reduction in mortality ( P = .005). Conclusions and Relevance There has been a shift toward a reduced crystalloid volume and the recreation of whole blood from component products in resuscitation. These changes are associated with markedly improved outcomes and a new paradigm in the resuscitation of severely injured patients.
Endogenous regulation of mosquito host-seeking behavior by a neuropeptide

Abstract Most species of mosquitoes must engage in host-seeking behavior to find a vertebrate host and ingest a meal of blood in order to initiate and complete each oogenic cycle. Female Aedes aegypti fed to repletion almost immediately fail to respond to odor cues that would otherwise lead them to a host for another blood meal. This response is delayed for approx. 24h in females that ingest small blood meals. In both instances, during this period of inhibition, the hemolymph titer of Ae. aegypti Head Peptide I (Aea-HP-I; pGlu-Arg-Pro-Hyp-Ser-Leu-Lys-Thr-Arg-Phe-NH 2 ) rises to a peak, as measured with an Aea-HP-I radioimmunoassay (RIA). This homologous RIA is based on an antiserum that specifically binds Aea-HP-I (5–100 fmol range, 1:100,000 final dilution) as compared to other related peptides, Aea-HP-I and at least one other immunoreactive peptide were identified in pooled hemolymph from sugar-fed females with HPLC fractionation and the RIA. To determine whether Aea-HP-I affects host-seeking behavior, synthetic Aea-HP-I and related peptides were injected into non-oogenic females, which actively seek a host. Host-seeking behavior was inhibited by Aea-HP-I within a dosage range of 16.5–825 pmol/female, whereas related peptides differing by a few amino acids had no effect. The relatively high doses of Aea-HP-I, which elicited behavioral inhibition, were rapidly degraded in vivo as determined with the RIA of hemolymph from experimental females. Other associated behaviors were not altered by the Aea-HP-I injection, even at high doses. These results together suggest that Aea-HP-I regulates the observed behavioral inhibition in this mosquito species.
Effect of Ultrasonic Nebulization on Blood Gas Tensions in Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease

Ultrasonic nebulization therapy (U/air) resulted in a decline in PaO2 of —5 to —22 mm Hg in ten of 15 chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD) patients. A similar decline in PaO2 occurred in four of ten COLD patients when ultrasonic nebulization was given with intermittent positive pressure breathing (IPPB [IPPB/U/air]). Complaints of discomfort from treatment were elicited in ten of 15 COLD patients treated with U/air and all ten COLD patients treated with IPPB/U/air. No consistent correlation of symptoms with the changes in PaO2 was noted. The increase in airway resistance with ultrasonic nebulization which occurs only in patients with COLD probably best explains the complaints, since our control patients had a greater incidence and degree of PaO2 decline and yet remained free of discomfort. Respiratory alkalosis was noted in one of 15 and three of ten COLD patients treated with U/air and IPPB/U/air, respectively. Hypoventilation with a decrease in PaO2 and pH and a rise in PaCO2 occurred in two patients receiving U/air. The mechanisms for the reduction in PaO2 are complex, including hypoventilation, increased workload of breathing, and most commonly, ventilation perfusion abnormalities. Acute blood gas changes are common with ultrasonic therapy and have important clinical implications which must be evaluated along with other known hazards of inhalational therapy.
Evolution of Cold Streams and Emergence of the Hubble Sequence

A new physical framework for the emergence of the Hubble sequence is outlined, based on novel analyses performed to quantify the evolution of cold streams of a large sample of galaxies from a state-of-the-art ultra-high resolution, large-scale adaptive mesh-refinement hydrodynamic simulation in a fully cosmological setting. It is found that the following three key physical variables of galactic cold inflows crossing the virial sphere substantially decrease with decreasing redshift: the number of streams N_{90} that make up 90% of concurrent inflow mass flux, average inflow rate per stream dot M_{90} and mean (mass flux weighted) gas density in the streams n_{gas}. Another key variable, the stream dimensionless angular momentum parameter lambda, instead is found to increase with decreasing redshift. Assimilating these trends and others leads naturally to a physically coherent scenario for the emergence of the Hubble sequence, including the following expectations: (1) the predominance of a mixture of disproportionately small irregular and complex disk galaxies at z>2 when most galaxies have multiple concurrent streams, (2) the beginning of the appearance of flocculent spirals at z~1-2 when the number of concurrent streams are about 2-3, (3) the grand-design spiral galaxies appear at z<1 when galaxies with only one major cold stream significantly emerge. These expected general trends are in good accord with observations. Early type galaxies are those that have entered a perennial state of zero cold gas stream, with their abundance increasing with decreasing redshift.
Predictive factors and viral genetic diversity for viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus infection in Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River

Abstract Viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus (VHSV) is the causative agent of a devastating disease in fish, viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS), which has recently spread to the Laurentian Great Lakes. In this paper, we report the results of infection surveillance conducted during 2009 for VHSV with a focus on yellow perch ( Perca flavescens ) and round goby ( Neogobius melanostomus ). We collected 1928 fish representing eight species at nine sites in Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River and found fish positive for VHSV by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) at every site. Prevalence of virus-positive fish at individual sites ranged from 0.7% to 27.5%. Yellow perch were significantly less likely to test positive than round goby in this study. In logistic regression models, maturity was a significant predictor of testing positive in yellow perch, but no evaluated factor was a significant predictor of testing positive in round goby. Virus isolation in cell culture was successful in seven out of 37 high titer fish samples, and partial glycoprotein gene sequences obtained from these virus isolates showed an increase in genetic diversity relative to the previously known diversity of Laurentian Great Lakes VHSV genotype IVb. These results highlight the importance of continued movement restrictions and surveillance for VHSV in wild fish in the Laurentian Great Lakes as well as suggest future work to further elucidate the infection dynamics of this virus in wild fish populations.
Molecular chirality and chiral parameters

The fundamental issues of symmetry related to chirality are discussed and applied to simple situations relevant to liquid crystals. The authors show that any chiral measure of a geometric object is a pseudoscalar (invariant under proper rotations but changing sign under improper rotations) and must involve three-point correlations that only come into play when the molecule has at least four atoms. In general, a molecule is characterized by an infinite set of chiral parameters. The authors illustrate the fact that these parameters can have differing signs and can vanish at different points as a molecule is continuously deformed into its mirror image. From this it is concluded that handedness is not an absolute concept but depends on the property being observed. Within a simplified model of classical interactions, the chiral parameter of the constituent molecules that determines the macroscopic pitch of cholesterics is identified.
Who should be taking aspirin to prevent coronary events

The decision to prescribe aspirin to prevent a coronary event is not straightforward, and requires physicians to balance the risk of a coronary event with the risk of adverse events from aspirin. Although evidence-based medicine shows the way, it does not answer all the questions, especially for patients at intermediate risk.
Structure of ultrathin MgO films on Mo(001)

Abstract We have studied the structure of ultrathin MgO films grown on a single crystal Mo(001) surface. Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and low energy electron diffraction (LEED) were used to investigate the effect of substrate temperature and oxygen partial pressure on the growth and morphology of these films. LEED indicates the growth of (100) films with MgO 〈110〉 directions oriented along 〈100〉 directions of the substrate. Despite the insulating nature of bulk MgO, films up to 25-A thick are sufficiently conducting to perform STM measurements. STM reveals Mg deposition in an oxygen ambient at substrate temperatures from 300 to 900 K produces uniform films. Films as thick as eight atomic layers typically have only three layers exposed. These films consist of small domains between 20 and 60 A in diameter. The domain shapes are random and the perimeters show no preferred orientation. In contrast, films grown at temperatures in excess of 1000 K exhibit larger three-dimensional MgO islands (Volmer–Weber growth). Steps on these high temperature films orient preferentially along thermodynamically favored MgO 〈100〉 directions. STM images of films deposited at high temperature exhibit a checkerboard pattern. The dimensions and symmetry of this pattern are consistent with the coincidence arising from the mismatch of the MgO(100) and Mo(001) lattice. Annealing room temperature deposited films results in island coalescence and produces uniform films with domains in excess of 100 A. The perimeters of these domains are oriented along MgO 〈100〉 directions.
A generalized upper bounding algorithm for multicommodity network flow problems

Abstract : An algorithm for solving min cost or max flow multicommodity flow problems is described. It is a specialization of the simplex method, which takes advantage of the special structure of the multicommodity problem. The only non- graph or non-additive operations in a cycle involve the inverse of a working basis, whose dimension is the number of currently saturated arcs. Efficient relations for updating this inverse are derived.
Refractory Nephrotic Syndrome in Lupus Nephritis: Favorable Response to Indomethacin Therapy:

The effects of indomethacin on urinary protein excretion, levels of serum albumin and renal function were studied prospectively in six patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and refractory nephrotic syndrome due to lupus nephritis. Two had membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, two had diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis, and one each had mesangioproliferative and membranous glomerulonephritis. All experienced a considerable reduction in urinary protein excretion and an increase in serum albumin. Indomethacin was discontinued in two patients because of side effects, and proteinuria recurred to pretreatment levels. The decrease of proteinuria continued during long-term treatment in three patients. Indomethacin did not cause a permanent decline in renal function. Our results suggest that therapy with indomethacin may be beneficial for the treatment of refractory nephrotic syndrome in selected SLE patients. However, because of potential side effects the administration of indomethacin should be monitored closely.
Tip dynamics in Saffman-Taylor fracture.

We present a model for a Saffman-Taylor finger advancing into a viscoelastic medium, along with solutions for the dynamics of the top of the finger coupled to a ``fractured zone.'' The fractured zone is defined as a region of the medium which the finger can penetrate, and ahead of which stress build up, eventually leading to fracture of the medium. The model predicts a self-sustained oscillation in the tip velocity arising via a Hopf bifurcation.
Dispersion of ionospheric waves

THE phase speed dispersion of travelling ionospheric disturbances (TIDs) has been measured using data from a three-dimensional array of c.w. Doppler sounders1. Horizontal and vertical trace speeds of phase surfaces were measured as a function of wave period by performing cross-spectral analysis of the array signals. Although the measured dispersion varied considerably depending on the coherence of the wave activity across the array, the average horizontal trace speed was approximately proportional to T−1/2, where T is the period. From a very limited set of measurements, vertical trace speed was tentatively determined as proportional to T−1. Additional measurements of highly coherent waves now indicate that the vertical dispersion is even stronger than T−1 at the short periods (12-25 min.).
A general mixture model approach for mapping quantitative trait loci from diverse cross designs involving multiple inbred lines.

Most current statistical methods developed for mapping quantitative trait loci (QTL) based on inbred line designs apply to crosses from two inbred lines. Analysis of QTL in these crosses is restricted by the parental genetic differences between lines. Crosses from multiple inbred lines or multiple families are common in plant and animal breeding programmes, and can be used to increase the efficiency of a QTL mapping study. A general statistical method using mixture model procedures and the EM algorithm is developed for mapping QTL from various cross designs of multiple inbred lines. The general procedure features three cross design matrices, W, that define the contribution of parental lines to a particular cross and a genetic design matrix, D, that specifies the genetic model used in multiple line crosses. By appropriately specifying W matrices, the statistical method can be applied to various cross designs, such as diallel, factorial, cyclic, parallel or arbitrary-pattern cross designs with two or multiple parental lines. Also, with appropriate specification for the D matrix, the method can be used to analyse different kinds of cross populations, such as F2 backcross, four-way cross and mixed crosses (e.g. combining backcross and F2). Simulation studies were conducted to explore the properties of the method, and confirmed its applicability to diverse experimental designs.
High-throughput approaches for plant epigenomic studies

In plant cells, DNA is packaged into chromatin by wrapping around histone octamers. Pathways that lead to cytosine DNA methylation, posttranslational histone modifications and certain components of the RNA interfering (RNAi) pathway are critically important in modulating chromatin structure, thereby affecting many molecular processes that take place in a cell. Recent advances in microarray and high-throughput sequencing technologies have made it possible to study these pathways on a genome-wide scale. Results from such epigenomic studies are broadening our understanding of plant genomes and are also providing important clues regarding the mechanisms and functions of these pathways that can be further tested using genetic and biochemical approaches. This review focuses on the high-throughput approaches that have been successfully applied in plant epigenomic studies.
Male perch selection and the mating system of the robber fly, Promachus albifacies (Diptera: Asilidae)

We studied the activity and spatial distribution of the robber fly,Promachus albifacies, in a desert grassland habitat in central New Mexico. Late in the season males spent most of the daytime on or near cholla and yucca plants that had dead stems or dead flower stalks at least 1 m high. Of the three hypotheses (thermoregulation, foraging, mate encounter site) considered as explanations for this distribution, the mate-encounter-site hypothesis was best supported. Plants used by females as oviposition sites were the focus of male activity. Males perched within or near these plants and attempted copulations with females detected nearby. Most matings were initiated at these locations. Seasonal changes in male and female activity also supported the mate-encounter-site hypothesis. Early in the season, females spent little time ovipositing, and predictably, males spent little time on or near these plants. Such a mating system may be described as resource defense polygyny, since males acted aggressively toward one another at oviposition sites even when females were not present. However, the short tenure of males at these sites is suggestive of scramble competition polygyny. We discuss possible reasons why this particular mating system has evolved.
Straightening and bounded cohomology of hyperbolic groups

It was stated by M. Gromov [Gr2] that, for any hyperbolic group G, the map from bounded cohomology \( H^n_b(G,{\Bbb R}) \) to \( H^n(G,{\Bbb R}) \) induced by inclusion is surjective for \( n \ge 2 \). We introduce a homological analogue of straightening simplices, which works for any hyperbolic group. This implies that the map \( H^n_b(G,V) \to H^n(G,V) \) is surjective for \( n \ge 2 \) when V is any bounded \( {\Bbb Q}G \)-module and when V is any finitely generated abelian group.
Algebraically growing waves in ducts with sheared mean flow

Standing or traveling waves which vary algebraically with the axial distance in uniform ducts with sheared mean velocity profiles are investigated. The results show that such waves are not possible for ducts with uniform cross sections and fully developed mean flows.
Allergic rhinitis is associated with decreased expression of Toll-like receptor 9 by sinonasal epithelial cells

Background Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are important in sinonasal mucosal innate immunity. Previous studies demonstrate that sinonasal epithelial cell (SNEC) TLR9 expression is reduced in T-helper 2 (Th2) cytokine-predominant chronic rhinosinusitis with polyps, and with the in vitro application of Th2 cytokines. To further investigate in vivo modulation of TLR9 by the local cytokine environment, this study examines TLR9 expression in freshly isolated SNECs from subjects with and without active allergic rhinitis (AR). Methods SNECs were gathered via endoscopic-guided middle meatal brushings from 9 AR subjects who were skin-prick test (SPT)-positive to environmental allergens in season at the time of study, and 8 controls. Flow cytometry was utilized to compare SNEC TLR9 expression in the 2 groups. Results TLR9 expression by SNEC in the AR group was significantly reduced compared to normals (35% ± 26% vs 76% ± 10%, p = 0.002). Conclusion Similar to observations in eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis, this study shows that active AR is associated with decreased SNEC TLR9 expression. These findings are consistent with the concept that Th2 cytokines suppress expression of TLR9 and other innate immune genes. Multiple endogenous and microbial factors likely modulate sinonasal innate immunity to maintain homeostasis and prevent infection in AR. © 2011 ARS-AAOA, LLC.
Refining risk assessment in cardiac sarcoidosis: a role for burden of late gadolinium enhancement and right ventricular function

Background The presence of myocardial late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) in patients with sarcoidosis is a powerful predictor of major adverse events (MAE: death, ventricular tachycardia, or appropriate ICD therapy). In this study, we aim to determine if the burden of LGE, left ventricular (LV) and right ventricular (RV) end-diastolic and end-systolic volume index (EDVi & ESVi) and ejection fraction (EF) can be used to improve risk stratification in patients with cardiac sarcoidosis (CS). Methods We identified 25 consecutive subjects with a diagnosis of CS (biopsy-proven extra-cardiac sarcoidosis and presence of LGE on cardiovascular magnetic resonance). Imaging was performed on a 1.5T scanner. Short axis cines (6 mm thickness, 4 mm gap, temporal resolution 5 standard deviations above the mean SI of normal remote myocardium. The total amount of LGE as a percentage of LV mass (%LGE) was determined using Diagnosoft Virtue software (Figure 1). Medical records were reviewed to identify MAE. Area under the curve (AUC) was determined from receiver-operator characteristics demonstrating the ability of %LGE, LVEDVi, LVESVi, LVEF, RVEDVi, RVESVi, and RVEF to detect MAE. Patients were divided into 2 groups; with MAE and without MAE. Each parameter was evaluated using unpaired T-tests. Continuous variables are presented as mean ± standard deviation. Results The mean age was 58 ±7y ears, 18 (72%) were female. Mean follow up was 39 ± 15 months. Six (24%) of patients had MAE. There was a significant difference in %LGE, RVEF and RVESVi but not LVEF, LVESVi, LVEDVi or RVEDVi between those who had MAE and those who did not (Table 1). The AUC for each of the following parameter’s ability to predict MAE was: LVEF 0.54, LVEDVi 0.58, LVESVi 0.62, LGE 0.67, RVEDVi 0.76, RVESVi 0.85, and RVEF 0.56. Notably, in terms of predicting death, the AUC for %LGE, RVEDVi and RVESVi were high at 0.87, 0.86 and 0.89 respectively, while that for LVEF was 0.61, RVEF 0.61, LVEDVi 0.54 and LVESVi 0.55. Conclusions The burden of LGE and RV size and function (not LV size and function) further improve prediction of death and significant ventricular arrhythmia in patients with cardiac sarcoidosis Funding None.
Hamartomatous inverted polyps of the rectum.

Hamartomatous inverted polyps of the rectum are benign single slightly polypoid intramural masses of the bowel wall formed by an inverted or downward growth of mucosal glands through the muscularis mucosa into the submucosa. The atypical and distorted mucous glands and the ectopic position of both mucous glands and lakes of mucus in these benign lesions may cause an erroneous diagnosis of well-differentiated carcinoma. Three cases with a differential diagnosis are presented.