cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bioavailability of calcium and phosphorus in human milk fortifiers and formula for very low birth weight infants

Growth, 96-hour balance of nutrients (nitrogen, fat, calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and magnesium), metabolizable energy, and serum biochemical markers of mineral status (Ca and P concentrations and alkaline phosphatase activity) were measured in 22 very low birth weight infants to investigate the bioavailability of minerals from specialized formula and from human milk fortifiers. The intakes of Ca and P were similar between group FORM (“Preemie” SMA) and group CMF (1:1 wt/wt, human-milk and Similac Natural Care or Similac Special Care). The intakes of nitrogen, energy, fat, and magnesium differed between groups. Group CMF had significantly greater fecal losses and significantly lower absorption and retention of Ca and P in comparison with those of group FORM. Retention of Ca and P in both groups, however, was >25% below intrauterine estimates of accretion. Retention rates of Ca, P, and magnesium were not correlated with their respective intakes. Weight gain during the balance study and during the entire study interval was significantly less in group CMF. The ratio of Ca retention to either weight gained or nitrogen retained was lower in group CMF, which suggested that the low retention of Ca was related less to the slower rate of growth in these infants than to their greater fecal losses of Ca. Although the cause of the greater fecal losses of Ca and P in this group is unclear, the data suggest an insolubility of the mineral sources. Our results indicate that sole reliance on the absolute mineral concentrations of the milk selected for very low birth weight infants may be unrealistic; the bioavailability of Ca and P from particular mineral sources should be evaluated.
Effects of increased training volume on the oxidative capacity, glycogen content and tension development of rat skeletal muscle

This study examined the effects of a short-term sudden increment in training load on the oxidative capacity, glycogen content and tension-generating ability of rat skeletal muscle. After training on a treadmill 5 dwk-1 for 9 wk (30 m.min-1 6 degrees, 60 min.d-1), rats were randomly divided into a normal training volume (NTV) group (N = 11) and an increased training volume (ITV) group (N = 8). The NTV group were sacrificed 24 h after the last bout of exercise, while the ITV group continued to train for further 6 successive days. Training duration for this latter group was increased to 120 min.d-1 for the first 2 d; 240 min.d-1 for the next 2 d; and 360 min.d-1 for the final 2 d; speed and grade were kept constant. Respiratory capacity (QO2) and citrate synthase activity were increased (P less than 0.05) in both the soleus and plantaris muscles, with no change in the white vastus lateralis muscle of the NTV group when compared to age- matched sedentary controls. Glycogen levels were unchanged in these muscles, but liver glycogen content was greater (231.9 +/- 10.1 vs 156.8 +/- 15.3 umol.g-1 w.w. for the NTV vs age-matched sedentary controls, respectively, P less than 0.05). Peak tetanic tension in the gastrocnemius was not changed by training, or the increased training load. Citrate synthase activity (umol.min-1.g-1) was significantly greater (P less than 0.05) in the plantaris (33.3 +/- 1.0 vs 27.0 +/- 1.7) and soleus muscles (40.5 +/- 2.7 vs 28.4 +/- 1.3) in the ITV vs NTV groups.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Implications of NSF-active and NSF-inert in nephrogenic systemic fibrosis.

AJR:191, December 2008 from an NSF patient. Even so, it is important to clarify that the technique used in our investigation to analyze these tissues does not discriminate between the bound or unbound state of the gadolinium atom. Other investi­ gators who have used the same principles to detect gadolinium in tissue samples have made a similar assertion [4]. And although still others have used this principle to successfully show various com pounds in proximity to gadolinium deposits [5], the exact physical state of gadolinium seems to remain elusive with this technique. Therefore, in the circumstance of our patient in whom gadolinium was found in histo logically nor­ mal tissue, it is not known whether gadolin­ ium was bound to histologic substrates, bound to the chelate ligand, or even free in its ionic form in these samples in vivo. A factor not mentioned by Kuo [2] that might support his NSF­inert concept is the curious absence of evidence for any link between the administration of lanthanum to patients and the development of NSF. Lanthanum, like gadolinium, is a rare earth metal in the lanthanide series with chemical properties similar to gadolinium. Lanthanum carbonate (Fosrenol, Shire US) received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ap­ proval in 2004 as a phosphate binder for patients with advanced renal failure [6]. If free gadolinium truly contributes to the initiation of NSF, one could speculate a similar association might exist with lantha­ num. To date, however, no known evidence has surfaced to indicate any such association, although this may be due in part to the relatively short amount of time that this medication has been available. Kuo [2] also proposes a mechanism by which the molecule of the gadolinium­based contrast agent would play an antigenic role as a whole. By internalizing a gadolinium­ based contrast agent in its entirety within the Implications of NSF-Active and NSF-Inert in Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis
1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance studies of enantio-selective hydrogen bonding of fluoroalkyl carbinol by chiral butoxycarbonyl-d-valine

Abstract Studies of the chromatographic selectivity in chiral solute-chiral stationary phase (CSP) systems have been performed with the aid of 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. For the R and S enantiomers of 2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(9-anthryl)ethanol (TFAE) in contact with butoxycarbonyl (BOC)- d -valine, the most significant bonding interactions are seen as chemical shifts at the carbonyl carbon and amide proton of the CSP. The differences between the shifts for the two isomers were the same in pure methylene chloride and in hexane-methylene chloride (80:20), suggesting that the solvent does not participate in the chiral recognition mechanism. However, the solvent does participate in the overall retention mechanism as measured by the capacity factor, k′, for TFAE that is absorbed by a BOC- d -valine-(spacer)-derivatized silica column packing. Values of the k′ decreased with increasing percentage of the strong solvent, methylene chloride.
Gas chromatographic analysis of pentachlorophenol in human urine by formation of alkyl ethers.

Abstract The procedure described is a rapid, reproducible and flexible method for the determination of PCP in urine, which is also applicable to the analysis of water samples. The ability to confirm the identity of PCP and to quantitate accurately in the presence of interfering compounds is facilitated by the proper selection of one or more possible derivatives.
Uptake and effect of mercury on amino acid losses from the gills of the bivalve mollusks Mytilus californianus and Anodonta californiensis.

Abstract Inorganic mercury (Hg2+) and herbicides are important contaminants of world water systems with effects on aquatic organisms and humans. The uptake of Hg2+ and glycine by the gills of the bivalve mollusks Mytilus californianus and Anodonta californiensis was determined. Additionally, the effects of glycine, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), and 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP) on the uptake of Hg2+ were also determined. The loss of primary amines from the excised gills of both species was measured in the presence and absence of Hg2+ or MeHg+. The results indicate that (1) the uptake of Hg2+ is approximately equivalent in both species; (2) comparison of the uptakes with that of inulin, which occupies only extracellular space, shows that Hg2+ is taken up; (3) the uptake of Hg2+ is slightly altered by the presence of glycine and herbicides such as 2,4-D and DNP; (4) the rate of loss of primary amines was highly increased relative to the control by the presence of Hg2+ and to a lesser extent MeHg+ for both species. These results showed that both inorganic and MeHg+ are effective in disrupting the permeability of cell membranes, causing leakage of essential amino acids from the cell. This could result in discharge of potential gradients, reduced efficiency of energy coupling, and consequently cell death.
Rapid and opposite effects of BDNF and NGF on the functional organization of the adult cortex in vivo

THE adult cortex is thought to undergo plastic changes that are closely dependent on neuronal activity (reviewed in ref. 1), although it is not yet known what molecules are involved. Neurotrophins and their receptors have been implicated in several aspects of developmental plasticity, and their expression in the adult cortex suggests additional roles in adult plasticity. To examine these potential roles in vivo, we used intrinsic-signal optical imaging to quantify the effects of nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on the functional representation of a stimulated whisker in the 'barrel' subdivision of the rat somatosensory cortex. Topical application of BDNF resulted in a rapid and long-lasting decrease in the size of a whisker representation, and a decrease in the amplitude of the activity-dependent intrinsic signal. In contrast, NGF application resulted in a rapid but transient increase in the size of a representation, and an increase in the amplitude of the activity-dependent intrinsic signal. These results demonstrate that neurotrophins can rapidly modulate stimulus-dependent activity in adult cortex, and suggest a role for neurotrophins in regulating adult cortical plasticity.
PCR amplification of putative gpa-2 and gpa-3 orthologs from the (A+T)-rich genome of Strongyloides stercoralis.

Abstract Two G protein α subunit genes orthologous to gpa-2 and gpa-3 in Caenorhabditis elegans have been identified in the parasitic nematode, Strongyloides stercoralis . These genes mediate chemosensory signal transduction regulating dauer arrest in C. elegans. In the parasite, they represent candidate mediators for regulation of the choice between free-living and parasitic life cycles, the obligatory developmental arrest of infective larvae, and reactivation of development after infection. The (A+T) content of these genes is 72.2% for coding sequences, 90% for introns, and 84.1% for 5′ and 3′ flanking regions, requiring the use of low extension temperatures for long distance PCR. The possible significance of conserved structural motifs of these proteins is discussed.
The applications of buckminsterfullerene C60 and derivatives in orthopaedic research

AbstractBuckminsterfullerene C60 and derivatives have been extensively explored in biomedical research due to their unique structure and unparalleled physicochemical properties. C60 is characterized as a “free radical sponge” with an anti-oxidant efficacy several hundred-fold higher than conventional anti-oxidants. Also, the C60 core has a strong electron-attracting ability and numerous functional compounds with widely different properties can be added to this fullerene cage. This review focused on the applications of C60 and derivatives in orthopaedic research, such as the treatment of cartilage degeneration, bone destruction, intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), vertebral bone marrow disorder, radiculopathy, etc., as well as their toxicity in vitro and in vivo. We suggest that C60 and derivatives, especially the C60 cores coupled with functional groups presenting new biological and pharmacological activities, are advantageous in orthopaedic research and will be promising in clinical performance for ...
No Rest for REST: REST/NRSF Regulation of Neurogenesis

Epigenetic strategies control the orderly acquisition and maintenance of neuronal traits. A complex network of transcriptional repressors and corepressors mediates gene specificity for these strategies. In this issue of Cell, a study by Ballas and coworkers (Ballas et al., 2005) provides insight into the early lineage commitment events during neurogenesis. This study demonstrates that regulation of the REST/NRSF transcriptional repressor plays a fundamental role in the progression of pluripotent cells to lineage-restricted neural progenitors.
Adult attachment security and young adults’ dating relationships over time: Self-reported, observational, and physiological evidence.

This study examined the developmental significance of adult attachment security--as measured by the Adult Attachment Interview--for romantic relationship functioning concurrently and approximately 1 year later in a sample of heterosexual dating couples between the ages of 18 and 25 (115 dyads at Time 1 [T1] and 57 dyads at T2, 74% White). The authors assessed romantic relationship functioning at T1 and T2 using observers' ratings of emotional tone during a laboratory conflict resolution task and via participants' self-reports about their relationships, yielding evidence that adult attachment security prospectively predicted the observed and perceived quality of adults' romantic relationships even after prior levels of interpersonal functioning were controlled. Measures of autonomic responding were also acquired during the interactions, replicating prior evidence that insecurity is concurrently associated with electrodermal reactivity in attachment-relevant contexts.
Comments on “Cross-dating methods dendrochronology” by Wigley et al.

Discussion sur l'article de Wigley TML et al, 1987 «Cross-dating methods in dendrochronology» Journal of archaeological Science 14, p 51-64
A Photoion-Photoelectron Coincidence Study of (CO) 2

Molecular beam photoionization1 and equilibrium2 mass spectrometric measurements provide valuable energetic information about dimer and cluster ions in their ground state. In spite of recent intense research activities in cluster ion chemistry, little is known about the interaction energies of an excited state ion with neutral molecules. A systematic method for determining the binding energies of a ground state as well as an excited state ion with neutral species is to measure the adiabatic ionization energies (IE) of the appropriate clusters by photoelectron spectroscopic techniques. The concentrations of clusters produced in a supersonic beam are usually much lower than that of the monomers. This, together with the fact that photoelectron bands of monomers and clusters often overlap in energy, makes the measurement of the photoelectron spectrum (PES) of a specific cluster difficult.
Abstract A87: Overcoming NSCLC to SCLC transformation as a resistance mechanism in EGFR mutant lung cancer.

The EGFR TKIs gefitinib and erlotinib produce dramatic responses in NSCLC patients with EGFR activating mutations, however, the efficacy of these drugs is severely limited by the development of acquired resistance. Recently, we and others have found that a subset of these cancers transform from NSCLC to SCLC as they acquire resistance to EGFR TKI. Here we report an initial characterization of the molecular mechanisms underlying the transformation from NSCLC to SCLC in samples and cell lines derived from resistant patients. Much like de novo SCLC, Rb and p53 are altered in the resistant tumors that transformed to SCLC, although loss of p53 and Rb function alone were insufficient to drive the transformation in NSCLC cell lines. In addition, we demonstrate that EGFR expression is lost in resistant samples, suggesting that in switching to SCLC these cancers become a cell type that is no longer dependent on EGFR activity and providing an explanation for lack of EGFR TKI sensitivity. Finally, we find that SCLC transformed cells are uniquely sensitive to the Bcl-2/Bcl-XL inhibitor Abt-263, offering a potential therapeutic option for these patients. Together, these results represent the first insights into the molecular and genetic details regarding this novel type of resistance to targeted therapy. Citation Information: Mol Cancer Ther 2013;12(11 Suppl):A87. Citation Format: Matthew J. Niederst, Lecia V. Sequist, Elizabeth L. Lockerman, Carlotta Costa, Darrell R. Borger, Mari Mino-Kenudson, Anthony J. Iafrate, Jeffrey A. Engelman. Overcoming NSCLC to SCLC transformation as a resistance mechanism in EGFR mutant lung cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference: Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2013 Oct 19-23; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2013;12(11 Suppl):Abstract nr A87.
160 THE DETECTION OF VENTRICULAR SEPTAL ANEURYSM BY TWO-DIMENSIONAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY

To evaluate the sensitivity of two-dimensional sector scan (2DSS) for detecting ventricular septal aneurysms (VSA) associated with ventricular septal defects, we studied thirteen patients, one week to thirteen years of age, with positive M-mode findings of VSA. The criteria for M-mode diagnosis of VSA were multiple echoes within the right ventricle resembling systolic anterior motion of the tricuspid valve (TV). On 2DSS the aneurysm could be seen in several tomographic planes, but most regularly in long axis and apical views; in systole, the aneurysm prolapsed into the right ventricle below the septal leaflet of the TV. We compared these noninvasive techniques to the cineangiographic findings in all thirteen patients. When compared to cineangiograms, 2DSS were in agreement in all cases; there were four false positive M-mode studies. M-mode is thus useful as a screening test (no false negatives), but needs confirmation from 2DSS which appears as specific as cineangiography in detecting VSA. The 2DSS should be a valuable method for diagnosing and following the course of VSA associated with VSD, without the need for cardiac catheterization.
Laminar Flow Heat Transfer for Variable Physical Properties

A solution is presented for heat transfer from a circular tube to a fluid, with variable propertics, in fully developed laminar flow within the tube. The major assumption employed is that the radial velocity component may be neglected. The method is illustrated for supercritical carbon dioxide with the boundary condition of constant wall heat flux. Under these conditions, the density and thermal properties vary greatly with temperature. The results indicate that unusual behavior of the heat-transfer coefficient may occur for certain values of heat flux and fluid temperature. The new solution technique presented should be applicable to a variety of partial differential equations with variable coefficient . (auth)
The duplicated α7 subunits assemble and form functional nicotinic receptors with the full-length α7

The α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor gene (CHRNA7) is linked to schizophrenia. A partial duplication of CHRNA7 (CHRFAM7A) is found in humans on 15q13–14. Exon 6 of CHRFAM7A harbors a 2-bp deletion polymorphism, CHRFAM7AΔ2bp, which is also associated with schizophrenia. To understand the effects of the duplicated subunits on α7 receptors, we fused α7, dupα7, and dupΔα7 subunits with various fluorescent proteins. The duplicated subunits co-localized with full-length α7 subunits in mouse neuroblastoma cells (Neuro2a) as well as rat hippocampal neurons. We investigated the interaction between the duplicated subunits and full-length α7 by measuring Forster resonance energy transfer using donor recovery after photobleaching and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy. The results revealed that the duplicated proteins co-assemble with α7. In electrophysiological studies, Leu at the 9′-position in the M2 membrane-spanning segment was replaced with Cys in dupα7 or dupΔα7, and constructs were co-transfected with full-length α7 in Neuro2a cells. Exposure to ethylammonium methanethiosulfonate inhibited acetylcholine-induced currents, showing that the assembled functional nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) included the duplicated subunit. Incorporation of dupα7 and dupΔα7 subunits modestly changes the sensitivity of receptors to choline and varenicline. Thus, the duplicated proteins are assembled and transported to the cell membrane together with full-length α7 subunits and alter the function of the nAChRs. The characterization of dupα7 and dupΔα7 as well as their influence on α7 nAChRs may help explain the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and may suggest therapeutic strategies.
PROMETHEUS AND KANT: NEUTRALIZING THEOLOGICAL DISCOURSE AND DOXOLOGY

This essay argues that Kant's writings on religion recapitulate or anticipate many of the theoretical moves we find in Promethean discourses of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. The first portion of the article lays out fundamental elements of Promethean discourse from a theological point of view, and distinguishes between “aggressive” and “urbane” Prometheanism. I contend that both types attack divine transcendence and Christian doxology, focus almost entirely on soteriology to the detriment of creation, and advocate a movement from theo-centric discourse to anthropocentric discourse. Yet urbane Prometheanism differs from its aggressive cousin by moving from hatred of God to a non-dialogical mode of indifference to God as an impotent and inconsequential deity. I argue that an urbane Prometheanism is what properly characterizes Kant's philosophy of religion—from his epistemic work in the first Critique, through his way of parsing theological and philosophical discursive responsibilities, to his actual hermeneutics of Christian doctrine.
Will the Real Dai Please Stand Up: Conflicting Displays of Identity in Ethnic Tourism

In ethnic tourism, displays of ethnicity may differ among the groups and stakeholders involved in the attraction; this article examines the multifarious (mis)representations of ethnicity among the minority Dai of Xishuangbanna in southwestern China. Located in the underdeveloped province of Yunnan, scenic and tropical Xishuangbanna has drawn an increasing number of foreign and domestic tourists since the 1990s. The rich Dai culture, vibrant Buddhist monastery, picturesque location of the village of Manchunman, and its accessibility by paved road gained the attention of both tourists and a Han-run company seeking to enter the area's growing and increasingly lucrative ethnic tourism industry. In 1998, Manchunman and four neighbouring villages were incorporated into the Dai Park, a tourist destination highlighting Dai culture yet staffed, operated, and managed almost exclusively by the majority Han. Since the advent of the Park, ethnicity in Manchunman is defined and negotiated on a daily basis by both the D...
Nonketotic hyperglycinemia: Atypical clinical and biochemical manifestations

A 16-year-old boy had intermittent chorea, delirium, and vertical gaze palsy precipitated by febrile illness. Nonketotic hyperglycinemia was confirmed by measurement of liver and lymphoblast glycine cleavage enzyme activity. Deficient but residual enzyme activity was demonstrated in both tissues, possibly accounting for the mild phenotype. Confirmation of an atypical variant of nonketotic hyperglycinemia with residual glycine cleavage enzyme activity has important implications for diagnosis and treatment.
Graph based hyperspectral image segmentation with improved affinity matrix

Image segmentation and clustering is a method to extract a set of components whose members are similar in some way. Instead of focusing on the consistencies of local image characteristics such as borders and regions in a perceptual way, the spectral graph theoretic approach is based on the eigenvectors of an affinity matrix; therefore it captures perceptually important non-local properties of an image. A typical spectral graph segmentation algorithm, normalized cuts, incorporates both the dissimilarity between groups and similarity within groups by capturing global consistency making the segmentation process more balanced and stable. For spectral graph partitioning, we create a graph-image representation wherein each pixel is taken as a graph node, and two pixels are connected by an edge based on certain similarity criteria. In most cases, nearby pixels are likely to be in the same region, therefore each pixel is connected to its spatial neighbors in the normalized cut algorithm. However, this ignores the difference between distinct groups or the similarity within a group. A hyperspectral image contains high spatial correlation among pixels, but each pixel is better described by its high dimensional spectral feature vector which provides more information when characterizing the similarities among every pair of pixels. Also, to facilitate the fact that boundary usually resides in low density regions in spectral domain, a local density adaptive affinity matrix is presented in this paper. Results will be shown for airborne hyperspectral imagery collected with the HyMAP, AVIRIS, HYDICE sensors.
Carbon monoxide absorption through the oral and nasal mucosae of cynomolgus monkeys.

Abstract Previous studies have shown that blood levels of carbon monoxide increase during cigarette smoking. It has generally been assumed that increases in blood levels of carbon monoxide could be interpreted as evidence that deep lung penetration of cigarette smoke had occurred. This study was designed to examine whether increased blood levels of carbon monoxide could result from absorption in the nasal and oral cavities. The nasal and oral cavities of cynomolgus monkeys were exposed, independently of the lungs, to cigarette smoke under rigorous smoking conditions. Preand post-exposure blood levels of carbon monoxide were measured. As a positive control, similar volumes of cigarette smoke were passed directly into the lungs, thus bypassing the oral and nasal cavities, and blood levels of carbon monoxide were again measured. The results indicate that absorption of carbon monoxide in the oral and nasal cavities is negligible under the heavy smoking regimen employed here, and hence, would be negligible und...
Strategies for the promotion of computer applications in radiology in healthcare delivery.

The objective of this paper is to identify current trends in the development and implementation of computer applications in today’s ever-changing healthcare environment. Marketing strategies are discussed with the goal of promoting computer applications in radiology as a means to advance future healthcare acceptance of technologic developments from the medical imaging field. With the rapid evolution of imaging and information technologies along with the transition to filmless imaging, radiologists must assume a proactive role in the development and application of these advancements. This expansion can be accomplished in a number of ways including Internet based educational programs, research partnerships, and professional membership in societies such as the Society of Computer Applications in Radiology (SCAR). Professional societies such as SCAR, in turn, should reach out to include other professionals from the healthcare community. These would include financial, administrative, and information systems, disciplines to promote these technologies in a cost conscious and value added manner.
Mutation analysis of the non-muscle myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) deletion constructs on CV1 fibroblast contractile activity and proliferation.

Smooth muscle myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) is a multifunctional molecule composed of an N-terminal actin binding domain, a central kinase domain, and C-terminal calmodulin- and myosin-binding domains. We previously cloned and characterized a novel MLCK isoform from endothelial cells (EC MLCK) consisting of 1,914 amino acids displaying a higher molecular weight (210 kDa) and a novel-amino-terminal stretch of 922 amino acids not shared by the smooth muscle isoform (smMLCK, 150 kDa). To further define the role of specific EC MLCK motifs in endothelial and non-muscle cells, we constructed two epitope-tagged EC MLCK deletion mutants in mammalian expression vectors lacking either the C-terminal auto-inhibitory and calmodulin-binding domain (EC MLCK1745) or the ATP-binding site (EC MLCKATPdel). Expression of EC MLCK1745 in CV1 fibroblasts showed increased basal actin stress fiber formation, which was markedly enhanced after tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) or thrombin treatment. Distribution of EC MLCK1745 was largely confined to stress fibers, cortical actin filaments, and focal adhesion contacts, and co-localized with myosin light chains (MLCs) diphosphorylated on Ser19 and Thr18. In contrast, immunofluorescence staining demonstrated that EC MLCKATPdel abolished thrombin- and TNFα-induced stress fiber formation and MLC phosphorylation, suggesting this kinase-dead mutant functions as a dominant-negative MLCK construct, thereby confirming the role of EC MLCK in stress fiber formation. Finally, we compared the serum-stimulated growth rate of mutant MLCK-transfected fibroblasts to sham controls, and found EC MLCK1745 to augment thymidine incorporation whereas EC MLCKATPdel reduced CV1 growth rates. These data demonstrate the necessary role for MLCK in driving the contractile apparatus via MLC phosphorylation, which can alter fibroblast growth and contractility. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Glans approximation procedure urethroplasty for the wide, deep meatus

Abstract Objectives. To assess the reliability, cosmesis, and complication rate of the glans approximation procedure (GAP). Methods. We reviewed 37 consecutive GAP urethroplasties performed at the Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri over a 5-year period, performed by three different pediatric surgeons. All patients selected had a large, deep ventral groove, typically with a wide open urethral meatus. Results. The mean age was 18 months, with a mean follow-up of 28 months. Of the 37, there was one urethrocutaneous fistula that has since been easily repaired with good results. The parents have been very pleased with the results in all cases, with a straight and strong urinary stream. There was one episode of transient erythema, possibly representing an infection, which resolved after 3 days of oral antibiotics. Conclusions. The GAP is technically easy, reliable, and offers a relatively low complication rate for the repair of a very select group of patients with hypospadias with a deep ventral glanular groove and wide-mouthed meatus.
A Lisp-Based PC Vision Workstation

Progress in the field of image understanding is partly hindered by the gap between numerical and symbolic processing, both of which are required. Image processing algorithms are best expressed by procedural programming languages, such as C or FORTRAN, while "understanding" is perhaps better addressed by functional languages, such as LISP. Image understanding involves both processing and analysis of images, thus including numeric and symbolic computation. Hence the need for both programming paradigms. This paper describes the development of a new vision workstation - a tool that combines numeric (in C) and symbolic (in LISP) programs in one package. The system described is based on an IBM Personal Computer AT. It provides a low-cost solution to computer vision educational needs. A more powerful implementation, based on an IBM RT/PC, is currently under development.
LOW THYROID HORMONE VALUES IN PRETERM INFANTS WHO FAIL TO RECOVER FROM VENTILATORY SUPPORT IN WEEK ONE. † 2080

LOW THYROID HORMONE VALUES IN PRETERM INFANTS WHO FAIL TO RECOVER FROM VENTILATORY SUPPORT IN WEEK ONE. † 2080
A sensitive, simultaneous analysis of ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase efficiencies: Graphical determination of the CO2/O2 specificity factor

A simple approach to determine CO2/O2 specificity factor (τ) of ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase is described. The assay measures the amount of CO2 fixation at varying [CO2]/[O2] ratios after complete consumption of ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate (RuBP). Carbon dioxide fixation catalyzed by the carboxylase was monitored by directly measuring the moles of 14CO2 incorporated into 3-phosphoglycerate (PGA). This measurement at different [CO2]/[O2] ratios is used to determine graphically by several different linear plots the total RuBP consumed by the two activities and the CO2/O2 specificity factor. The assay can be used to measure the amounts of products of the carboxylase and oxygenase reactions and to determine the concentration of the substrate RuBP converted to an endpoint amount of PGA and phosphoglycolate. The assay was found to be suitable for all [CO2]/[O2] ratios examined, ranging from 14 to 215 micromolar CO2 (provided as 1–16 mM NaHCO3) and 614 micromolar O2 provided as 50% O2. The procedure described is extremely rapid and sensitive. Specificity factors for enzymes of highly divergent τ values are in good agreement with previously published data.
Perspectives on the Use of Adaptive Designs in Clinical Trials. Part I. Statistical Considerations and Issues

With greater and enthusiastic interests in pursuing adaptive design clinical trials, the pharmaceutical industry as a whole is in the midst of gaining better understanding of scientifically sound approaches. In light of the public's greater interests, the Basel Biometric Section (BBS) of the Austo-Swiss Region of the International Biometric Society held a spring conference on “Perspectives on the Use of Adaptive Designs in clinical trials” at Basel University, Basel, Switzerland (March 12, 2010). The conference opened with statistical considerations and issues of adaptive designs in clinical trials, followed by a panel discussion in which international representatives from industry, academia, and regulatory agencies participated. In addition, six presentations were given by individual research groups mainly focusing on adaptive design methodologies, some illustrated with examples. There are two parts in this special article capturing the morning session of the conference. Part I summarizes the highlights ...
Circadian clock in Limulus brain increases response and decreases noise of retinal photoreceptors

The sensitivity and structure of ommatidia in the Limulus lateral eye exhibit circadian rhythms1–3. The cyclic changes are mediated by the activity of efferent optic nerve fibres1 that originate in the brain and terminate in the retina4,5. We report here that the effects of the efferent input to the retina are detectable in single photoreceptor cells. At night the efferent input decreases photoreceptor noise (discrete waves of the membrane potential in darkness) and increases the photo-receptor response to light (amplitude of the receptor potential).
The New Crystal Hunters Project and Episode One: Pala

Figure 1. Bryan and Mae Lynne Swoboda with the kids. The Pala Queen mine, owned by Edward Swoboda and the inspiration for BlueCap Productions' name, is in the background. Figure 2. Max looks throug...
Semi-Autonomous Control of a Multi-Arm Telemanipulator With Adaptive Impedance

This paper addresses problems to achieve transparency and contact stability for Single Master Multi-Slave telemanipulation that consists of unconstrained and constrained motions. The adaptive bilateral control with a local force compensator is developed based on adaptive impedance control and contact force driven compensation with auto-switching functions. With a limited amount of knowledge about robotic and environment dynamics and a time-varying communication delay, the developed method guarantees good adaptive tracking performance in unconstrained motion and reduction of oscillating contacts to keep a balance of the system in constrained motion. Based on an actual haptic device and virtual robots, haptic simulations are presented to demonstrate adaptive transparency and contact stability in the presence of communication delays.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Protein O-GlcNAcylation in diabetes and diabetic complications

The post-translational modification of serine and threonine residues of proteins by O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) is highly ubiquitous, dynamic and inducible. Protein O-GlcNAcylation serves as a key regulator of critical biological processes including transcription, translation, proteasomal degradation, signal transduction and apoptosis. Increased O-GlcNAcylation is directly linked to insulin resistance and to hyperglycemia-induced glucose toxicity, two hallmarks of diabetes and diabetic complications. In this review, we briefly summarize what is known about protein O-GlcNAcylation and nutrient metabolism, as well as discuss the commonly used tools to probe changes of O-GlcNAcylation in cultured cells and in animal models. We then focus on some key proteins modified by O-GlcNAc, which play crucial roles in the etiology and progression of diabetes and diabetic complications. Proteomic approaches are also highlighted to provide a system view of protein O-GlcNAcylation. Finally, we discuss how aberrant O-GlcNAcylation on certain proteins may be exploited to develop methods for the early diagnosis of pre-diabetes and/or diabetes.
On-line blind equalization via on-line blind separation

Abstract A blind equalization method based on the theory of independent component analysis is presented. The blind equalization of an unknown FIR channel with possibly non-minimum phase is formulated as a blind separation problem. The inputs to the equalizer are formed by stacking the fractional samples of the channel outputs. New on-line blind equalization algorithms are developed from on-line blind separation algorithms, thus they inherit the equivariant property from the equivariant blind separation algorithms. Due to this property, the performance of the new algorithms is independent of the channel parameters. Therefore, they are useful for equalizing some ill-conditioned channels. It is shown by simulations that the proposed algorithm works well when the input sequence has some degree of correlation.
Kinship, familiarity, aggression, and dominance in deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) in seminatural enclosures.

This study was designed to test the effects of kinship and postweaning familiarity on male-male aggressive interactions in deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) in a more naturalistic situation than that of most tests of kin discrimination. Familiar males (i.e., those housed together from weaning) displayed significantly less aggression than unfamiliar males; kinship per se did not appear to affect levels of aggression. In addition, dominant males copulated more than subordinates and under some conditions sired more offspring. The postest copulatory patterns showed that the subordinate males ejaculated after fewer intromissions than did dominant males.
Lack of a significant pharmacokinetic interaction between maraviroc and tacrolimus in allogeneic HSCT recipients

Objectives: Emerging data suggest that the combination of tacrolimus and the CCR5 antagonist maraviroc, both cytochrome P450-3A4 substrates, may be effective in preventing graft-versus-host disease in patients undergoing allogeneic HSCT. This study evaluated whether a pharmacokinetic interaction exists between these agents. Methods: The study included 36 allogeneic HSCT recipients who received maraviroc+tacrolimus and 43 recipients of tacrolimus alone. We used a difference-in-differences analysis to examine the change in the concentration/dose ratios of tacrolimus after the discontinuation of maraviroc. In addition, weanalysed the concentrations and dose requirements of tacrolimus in the two groups. Results: There was no significant difference in tacrolimus concentration/dose ratios in patients receiving maraviroc+tacrolimus compared with tacrolimus alone. Upon discontinuation of maraviroc, the change in concentration/dose ratio was small and not significant relative to the control group, and the effect estimate was furtherattenuatedafteradjustmentforconfounders[20.35(ng/mL)/(mg/day);P ¼0.46].Inaddition, thechange in mean tacrolimus dose after discontinuation of maraviroc was similar between the groups (0.12 mg/day; P ¼0.56), as was the change in mean tacrolimus concentration (0.02 ng/mL; P ¼0.97). Conclusions: Our findings do not support a significant inhibitory effect of maraviroc on the metabolism of tacrolimus. These data demonstrate that this drug combination is safe and imply that the protective effect of maravirocagainst graft-versus-host diseasewasnot mediated through anincrease in tacrolimusconcentrations. These findings are important for the design of clinical trials that evaluate maraviroc in combination with cytochrome P450-3A4 substrates.
Multiple forms of histone acetyltransferases in the cytosol of calf endometrium.

Abstract The histone acetyltransferase (EC 2.3.1-) activity of calf endometrium cytosol has been separated into three separate activities by stepwise chromatography on DEAE-cellulose. In addition to differential elution from the DEAE-cellulose, the three activities are differentiated by their pH optima, preferences for histone subfractions as substrates, and stability to heat denaturation. Peak I has an optimum of pH 8.7 and preferentially acetylates histones F2b and F3; Peak II has an optimum of pH 8.5, and preferentially acetylates histone F2al followed by histone F2b; Peak III has an optimum of pH 9.5, and had similar specificity to Peak II. Peak III is appreciably more stable at 60°C than is Peak II. None of the peaks transferred acetate to other proteins tested or to tRNA. These studies suggest the presence of multiple histone acetyltransferase in tissue cytosols.
Nutrients and Other Abiotic Factors Affecting Bacterial Communities in an Ohio River (USA)

Nitrogen and phosphorus additions from anthropogenic sources can alter the nutrient pool of aquatic systems, both through increased nutrient concentrations and changes in stoichiometry. Because bacteria are important in nutrient cycling and aquatic food webs, information about how nutrients affect bacterial communities enhances our understanding of how changes in nutrient concentrations and stoichiometry potentially affect aquatic ecosystems as a whole. In this study, bacterial communities were examined in biofilms from cobbles collected across seasons at three sites along the Mahoning River (Ohio) with differing levels of inorganic nutrient inputs. Members of the alpha-, beta-, and gamma-proteobacteria, the Cytophaga–Flavobacteria cluster, and the Domain Bacteria were enumerated using fluorescent in situ hybridization. Detrended canonical correspondence analysis (DCCA) revealed that stoichiometric ratios, especially the dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN):soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) molar ratio (NO2/NO3 + NH4:soluble reactive phosphorus), were correlated with abundance of the various bacterial taxa. However, the patterns were complicated by correlations with single nutrient concentrations and seasonal changes in temperature. Seasonal cycles appeared to play an important role in structuring the community, as there were distinct winter communities and temperature was negatively correlated with abundance of both alpha-proteobacteria and Cytophaga–Flavobacteria. However, nutrients and stoichiometry also appeared to affect the community. Numbers of cells hybridizing the Domain Bacteria probe were correlated with the DOC:DIN ratio, the beta-proteobacteria had a negative correlation with soluble reactive phosphorus concentrations and a positive correlation with the DIN:SRP ratio, and the Cytophaga–Flavobacteria had a significant negative partial correlation with the DIN:SRP ratio. Abundances of the alpha- or gamma-proteobacteria were not directly correlated to nutrient concentrations or stoichiometry. It appears that nutrient stoichiometry may be an important factor structuring bacterial communities; however, it is one of many factors, such as temperature, that are interlinked and must be considered together when studying environmental bacteria.
Measurement and modeling of polychlorinated biphenyl bioaccumulation from sediment for the marine polychaete neanthes arenaceodentata and response to sorbent amendment

Bioaccumulation rates of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) for the marine polychaete Neanthes arenaceodentata were characterized, including PCB uptake rates from water and sediment, and the effect of sorbent amendment to the sediment on PCB bioavailability, organism growth, and lipid content. Physiological parameters were incorporated into a biodynamic model to predict contaminant uptake. The results indicate rapid PCB uptake from contaminated sediment and significant organism growth dilution during time-series exposure studies. PCB uptake from the aqueous phase accounted for less than 3% of the total uptake for this deposit-feeder. Proportional increase of gut residence time and assimilation efficiency as a consequence of the organism’s growth was assessed by PCB uptake and a reactor theory model of gut architecture. Pulse-chase feeding and multilabeled stable isotope tracing techniques proved high sediment ingestion rates (i.e., 6−10 times of dry body weight per day) indicating that such deposit-feeders ...
Global Strategic Collaboration: Trade Secrets and Firm Value

Intellectual property is gaining increased recognition as one of the most important organizational assets in the highly competitive global marketplace. As companies struggle to seize value from intellectual property, technological advances have prompted the formation of strategic partnerships between companies seeking to exploit unique intellectual assets. However, scholars have paid relatively little attention to the risks involved with intellectual property collaboration, given that relationships may be formed with organizations based in countries that have traditionally ignored intellectual property laws. Despite past advancements protecting intellectual property rights across the globe, the continued lack of effective enforcement remains cause for concern for organizations doing business abroad. Consequently, my primary motivation is to highlight the significance and severity of this issue, in order to guide future research and practice on the capacities necessary to develop effective collaborative relationships on a global scale. Based on emerging legal trends, I propose that U.S. organizations can reduce the anxieties associated with sharing intellectual property abroad by lobbying for increased extraterritorial application of domestic trade secret laws, employing contractual agreements with heightened protections, and championing the importance of intellectual property protections to overseas strategic partners.
The cuticular lipids of the walkingstick, Diapheromera femorata (Say)

Abstract This paper reports on the chemical constituents of the cuticular lipids of a phasmatid with special emphasis on differences in composition between the sexes. Wax esters that were more abundant in adult females than in males included combinations of straight-chain primary alcohols of 24, 26, and 28 carbons and straight-chain acids of 16, 18, 22, and 24 carbons. Hydrocarbons including n- alkanes , 3-methylalkanes, internally-branched monomethylalkanes, and dimethylalkanes were also identified.
Synthesis of 1,2-Dihydro-1,2-azaborines and Their Conversion to Tricarbonyl Chromium and Molybdenum Complexes

1,2-Dihydro-1,2-azaborines (1c, 1d, and 1e) have been prepared by the reaction of the corresponding 2,3-dihydro-1H-1,2-azaborol-3-yllithium reagents (1c, 1d, and 1e). The reaction of 1e with Py3Mo(CO)3 and BF3·OEt2 affords Mo(CO)3 complex 5e, while the reaction of 1c with Cr(CH3CN)3(CO)3 affords Cr(CO)3 complex 6c. X-ray structures of 5e and 6c show that the metals are η6-bound to the 1,2-dihydro-1,2-azaborine rings.
PHOTODISINTEGRATION OF DEUTERONS AT HIGH ENERGIES

Photodisintegration of deuterons has been investigated by use of the photon beam from the 342-Mev synchrotron at Berkeley. A liquid deuterium target was used. Protons were detected with a telescope consisting of either twelve or thirteen scintillation counters. The height of the pulse from one of the first counters and the number of subsequent pulses served to identify the protons and determine their energy.