cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Competing Pathways in the photo-Proton-Coupled Electron Transfer Reduction of fac-[Re(bpy)(CO)3(4,4′-bpy]+* by Hydroquinone

The emitting metal-to-ligand charge transfer (MLCT) excited state of fac-[ReI(bpy)(CO)3(4,4′-bpy)]+ (1) (bpy is 2,2′-bipyridine, 4,4′-bpy is 4,4′-bipyridine), [ReII(bpy–•)(CO)3(4,4′-bpy)]+*, is reductively quenched by 1,4-hydroquinone (H2Q) in CH3CN at 23 ± 2 °C by competing pathways to give a common electron–proton-transfer intermediate. In one pathway, electron transfer (ET) quenching occurs to give ReI(bpy–•)(CO)3(4,4′-bpy)]0 with k = (1.8 ± 0.2) × 109 M–1 s–1, followed by proton transfer from H2Q to give [ReI(bpy)(CO)3(4,4′-bpyH•)]+. Protonation triggers intramolecular bpy•– → 4,4′-bpyH+ electron transfer. In the second pathway, preassociation occurs between the ground state and H2Q at high concentrations. Subsequent Re → bpy MLCT excitation of the adduct is followed by electron–proton transfer from H2Q in concert with intramolecular bpy•– → 4,4′-bpyH+ electron transfer to give [ReI(bpy)(CO)3(4,4′-bpyH•)]+ with k = (1.0 ± 0.4) × 109 s–1 in 3:1 CH3CN/H2O.
Spline-based sparse tomographic reconstruction with Besov priors

Tomographic reconstruction from limited X-ray data is an ill-posed inverse problem. A common Bayesian approach is to search for the maximum a posteriori (MAP) estimate of the unknowns that integrates the prior knowledge, about the nature of biomedical images, into the reconstruction process. Recent results on the Bayesian inversion have shown the advantages of Besov priors for the convergence of the estimates as the discretization of the image is refined. We present a spline framework for sparse tomographic reconstruction that leverages higher-order basis functions for image discretization while incorporating Besov space priors to obtain the MAP estimate. Our method leverages tensor-product B-splines and box splines, as higher order basis functions for image discretization, that are shown to improve accuracy compared to the standard, first-order, pixel-basis. Our experiments show that the synergy produced from higher order B-splines for image discretization together with the discretization-invariant Besov priors leads to significant improvements in tomographic reconstruction. The advantages of the proposed Bayesian inversion framework are examined for image reconstruction from limited number of projections in a few-view setting.
Treatment of portal venous gas embolism with hyperbaric oxygen after accidental ingestion of hydrogen peroxide: a case report and review of the literature.

Abstract Background: It is well known that hydrogen peroxide ingestion can cause gas embolism. Objective: To report a case illustrating that the definitive, most effective treatment for gas embolism is hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Case Report: We present a case of a woman who presented to the Emergency Department with acute abdominal pain after an accidental ingestion of concentrated hydrogen peroxide. Complete recovery from her symptoms occurred quickly with hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Conclusion: This is a case report of the successful use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy to treat portal venous gas embolism caused by hydrogen peroxide ingestion. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can be considered for the treatment of symptomatic hydrogen peroxide ingestion.
The impact of the composition of government spending on private consumption and investment: some impirical evidence

Abstract Government spending is disaggregated into investment and consumption components to investigate both theoretically and empirically whether public sector consumption and investment spending crowd out private sector expenditures in the same categories. The hypothesis is that the composition of public sector expenditures may also be important in influencing the composition of private expenditures, rather than just the total level of public expenditure. The empirical results do not indicate that public expenditures in these two categories significantly influence their private sector counterparts.
Synthesis and EPR Characterization of New Models for the One-Electron Reduced Molybdenum Site of Sulfite Oxidase

Deconvoluting the different contributions of thiolate and ene-1,2-dithiolate donors to the underlying electronic structure of the Mo site in sulfite oxidase (SO) has proven to be a difficult task. One way in which these differences might be illuminated is by selectively substituting Se for S in model complexes which possess multiple sulfur donor ligand environments. Here we report the synthesis and structures of new oxo−Mo(V) complexes as effective models for the one-electron reduced active site of SO. We have used the tridentate heteroscorpionate ligand (2-dimethylethanethiol)bis(3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl)methane (L3SH) in order to model the constrained cysteinyl sulfur (SCys) ligand environment observed in the crystal structure of the enzyme, and benzene-1,2-dithiol (bdt) as a mimic of the ene-1,2-dithiolate chelate. [(L3S)MoO(bdt)] and [(L3S)MoO(SPh)2] have been structurally characterized by X-ray crystallography, and as such, [(L3S)MoO(bdt)] is only the second known model compound that closely approximate...
O Império é que era a República: a monarquia republicana de Joaquim Nabuco

O artigo debruca-se sobre a incompreendida fidelidade a Monarquia por parte de Joaquim Nabuco depois da Abolicao da Escravatura, quando ele passou a refletir sobre as condicoes de possibilidade de construcao de uma sociedade republicana liberal no Brasil. Estudando seus escritos monarquistas publicados entre 1888 e 1896, percebe-se que Nabuco permaneceu monarquista por julgar que o advento do regime republicano, na modalidade oligarquica proposta pelo partido homonimo, ao inves de auxilia-la, prejudicaria o advento de uma sociedade autenticamente republicana, liberal e democratica. Consideracoes de ordem pragmatica levavam-no a ver a Monarquia como um instrumento capaz de mais bem preparar a sociedade brasileira para uma Republica que fosse alem do mero rotulo, sem desnivel entre forma e conteudo, o pais legal e o real.
Efficiently searching for similar images

IF A TREE falls in the forest and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound? In the realm of content-based image retrieval, the question is: if an image is captured and recorded but no one is there to annotate it, does it ever again make an appearance? Over the last decade we have witnessed an explosion in the number and throughput of imaging devices. At the same time, advances in computer hardware and communications have made it increasingly possible to capture, store, and transmit image data at a low cost. Billions of images and videos are hosted publicly on the Web; cameras embedded in mobile devices are commonplace. Climatologists compile large volumes of satellite imagery in search of long-term trends that might elucidate glacial activity and its impact on water supplies. Centralizedmedical image databases archive terabytes of X-ray, CAT scans, and ultrasound images, which may assist in new diagnoses.
Methods for determining the barrier efficacy of surgical gowns

Abstract Background: Surgical gowns are worn in the operating room to reduce the incidence of nosocomial wound infections in patients and to prevent the exposure of medical personnel to pathogens in blood and other body fluids from the patient. New test methods have been developed by the American Society for Testing and Materials to identify gowns that provide barriers against liquid and microbes. Methods: This article evaluates the liquid and microbial barrier properties of 13 reusable and disposable gowns and investigates the cumulative effects of laundering and sterilizing on the barrier efficacy of reusable gowns by means of the Impact Penetration (splash) Test, the Synthetic Blood Resistance Test, the Viral Resistance Test, and the Elbow Lean (demonstration) Test. Results: Single-layer regular gowns and double-layer fabric reinforced gowns offer different degrees of liquid resistance; that is, they show some resistance to splashes and pooling of liquids on the surface. Gowns reinforced with films, membranes, and coatings are generally liquid-proof, meaning that they resist visible penetration of synthetic blood under pressure. Some of these gowns are also resistant to viral penetration. Conclusions: Hospitals should provide liquid-proof gowns that also offer microbial resistance to their medical personnel for use in high-risk situations in which optimum safety is required. Other gowns may be used when the risk of exposure to body fluids is low. Hospital personnel should determine the type of gown that should be worn in different operating room situations. Any incidents of penetration would indicate that a higher level of protection is required.
Precision and plasticity in the insect nervous system

The nervous systems of insects exhibit considerable plasticity. Deafferentation, sensory deprivation and various conditioning paradigms all have anatomical, physiological and biochemical effects on neurons in the CNS. Many neurons are re-sculptured during the normal course of post-embryonic development, especially during metamorphosis, and new evidence indicates that this process can be affected by experience.
Gonadal function in galactosemics and in galactose-intoxicated animals

Gonadal dysfunction, specifically hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, in female galactosemics is an almost universal finding. Minimal transferase activity may modulate ovarian function and the time of menopause. In contrast, male galactosemics have a relatively low risk of gonadal dysfunction. Animal models have variously suggested prenatal and postnatal insults which may play a role in the gonadal pathology. Several candidate toxic states may be involved. Current dietary restrictions are inadequate to prevent ovarian failure. Until such time as the pathophysiology is better understood, therapy will remain palliative and supportive. Exogenous estrogen and progesterone have roles in assisting pubertal changes and in prevention of the sequelae of a post-menopausal state.
Spatial Dispersion in Electrochemically Generated Surface Composition Gradients Visualized with Covalently Bound Fluorescent Nanospheres

Surface electrochemical potential gradients were prepared by poising the two ends of a thin Au strip at different potentials relative to a common solution Ag/AgCl reference couple. The small resistivity of the Au film resulted in a linear gradient in surface electrochemical potential, enabling spatially resolved electrochemistry. With no applied potential, a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of an organothiol was formed on the electrode surface. Upon potential application the SAM was stripped in regions with local potentials cathodic of the reductive desorption potential, while regions sufficiently anodic of that potential maintained full monolayer coverage. A transition region was produced between the bare areas and those retaining full monolayer coverage. Carboxylic acid modified, fluorescently doped, polystyrene nanospheres can be reacted with amine-terminated thiols through the use of a water-soluble carbodiimide and N-hydroxysuccinimide. Fluorescence microscopy was used to image the nanosphere distribut...
DETERMINATION OF CRYSTALLINE ANDROSTERONE WITH THE EVELYN PHOTOELECTRIC COLORIMETER

THE ZIMMERMANN procedure for color development in an alkaline alecholic solution with substances containing the - CH2CO grouping has been applied by a number of investigators to the assay of crystalline and urinary androgens (1–-7). Our modification of this reaction for use in the Oesting colorimeter has been found to be of distinct clinical value in the assay of urinary androgens (7). These observations were extended to include a similar study with the Evelyn photoelectric colorimeter (8) in order to eliminate the subjective factors inherent in visual comparative measurements and because one can study under more favorable circumstances the factors which influence the rate and course of color development. For these reasons the instrument was useful in the development of a more accurate method for the determination of ketonic sterols such as crystalline androsterone and dehydroisoandrosterone. This communication is concerned with the method of color development and the calibration of the Evelyn photoelectr...
Monitoring of Hematological and Hemostatic Parameters in Neurocritical Care Patients

Anemia and bleeding are paramount concerns in neurocritical care and often relate to the severity of intracranial hemorrhage. Anemia is generally associated with worse outcomes, and efforts to minimize anemia through reduced volume of blood sampled are encouraged. Point-of-care-testing reliably detects the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that may worsen bleeding and reduce platelet activity, particularly in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage. How best to monitor the effect of platelet transfusion or platelet-activating therapy is not well studied. For patients known to take novel oral anticoagulants, drug-specific coagulation tests before neurosurgical intervention are prudent.
Nonlinear smoothing: approximate algorithms

In this paper the method of stochastic linearization is employed to develop new approximate algorithms for nonlinear smoothing. Both fixed-point and fixed-interval smoothing cases are considered. An example is included to illustrate the use of the algorithms.
Minimizing tool marks in deterministic microgrinding

In deterministic microgrinding of glass optics with metal bond diamond ring tools, optical surfaces exhibit residual cutting tool marks that can significantly affect the efficiency of the finish polishing process. The tool marks for spherical surface generation appear as curves that follow contact lines between the tool and workpiece from the center to the edge of the workpiece. The tool marks are circumferentially periodic and the number is typically equal to the k-ratio, i.e. the ratio of grinding tool speed to workpiece speed. This paper describes the effect of the k-ratio, the tool cutting face width, and their interaction on tool mark generation. We introduce a new parameter equal to the ratio of tool cutting face width to the k-ratio spacing. Experimental results indicate that this ratio is the critical factor for tool mark generation. For ratios greater than a critical value, the amplitude of tool marks will be reduced to a level not detectable by interferometry. The influences of vibration and tool roughness are also discussed. The model presented provides new insight into the generation of tool marks and optimization of deterministic microgrinding processes.
Lower genitourinary tract sources of seminal HIV.

Objective: To investigate genital tract sources of HIV-1, we conducted extensive genitourinary sampling of 23 seropositive men without urethritis who shed HIV in their seminal plasma. Design: Semen was collected, then samples were obtained for HTV RNA in blood plasma, urethral fluid, pre-prostate massage fluid/urine (PMF/U) and post-PMF/U, and expressed prostatic secretions. Systematic transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsies obtained from multiple prostate areas were evaluated for HTV RNA and DNA. Results: Seminal HIV RNA levels correlated with HIV RNA levels in urethral fluid and post-PMF/U and with prostate biopsies HIV DNA, but not with expressed prostatic secretions HIV RNA. However, only the HIV RNA level in post-PMF/U independently predicted that in semen (2.77-fold change in semen for each 10-fold change in post-PMF/U; 95% confidence interval, 1.0-7.7) accounting for one third of the seminal HIV RNA level variation, irrespective of adjustment for antiretroviral therapy. Conclusions: These data indicate that distal genitourinary sources other than the prostate appear to be the major source of seminal HIV in men without clinical urethritis or prostatitis. Because the HIV RNA level in blood plasma is not reliable as an independent clinical predictor of virus levels in seminal plasma, these findings also extend the concept that the male genital tract is a distinct virological compartment from blood.
HeT DNA: a family of mosaic repeated sequences specific for heterochromatin in Drosophila melanogaster.

Abstract HeT DNA is a complex family of repeated DNA found only in pericentric and telomeric heterochromatin. In contrast to other DNA families that have been specifically associated with heterochromatin, HeT DNA is not principally a family of tandemly repeated elements. Much of the HeT DNA family appears to be a mosaic of several different classes of large sequence elements arranged in a scrambled array; however, some elements of the family can be found in tandem repeats. In spite of the variable order of the different elements in HeT DNA, the sequence homology between different members of each class of element is extremely high, suggesting that the members are evolving in a concerted fashion. Sequence analysis suggests that some elements in the HeT family may make up a novel family of heterochromatin-specific transposable elements and that the mosaic organization of the elements may be produced by retroposition and other mechanisms involved in the transposition of mobile elements. We suggest that such mechanisms may be a general feature for the maintenance of chromosome structure.
Plasmon-photon modes of a filamentary lattice

The plasmon-photon modes of a filamentary square lattice are calculated by using a phenomenological single-strand Lagrangian for the plasmon polarization field. We solve for the case of instantaneous (Coulomb) interactions between polarization waves on the strands and are able to treat retarded interactions between filaments for the first time. The contribution of these modes via their zero-point energy to the cohesive energy of quasi-one-dimensional conductors is calculated numerically and shown to be small.
Pay No Attention to the Man Behind the Curtain! -- Power, Privacy, and the Legal Regulation of Violence Against Women

This paper considers issues of violence against women through the conceptual lens of public/private ideology, exploring numerous ways that the public/private dichotomy is reinforced in the law and public policy of rape, domestic violence, and sexual harassment. We argue that the power of this ideology continues into the contemporary law of gendered violence, as evidenced most recently by the Supreme Court's decision in United States v. Morrison (2000). We find that public/private ideology offers men a “violence shield”: freedom from scrutiny that enables gendered violence to thrive. Although gendered violence is now on the public agenda, these crimes remain shielded from scrutiny because they are associated with the private sphere. We suggest that feminist activists concentrate on undermining these ideological roots when crafting strategies to combat violence against women.
G αi2, G αi3and G αoare all Required for Normal Muscarinic Inhibition of the Cardiac Calcium Channels in Nodal/Atrial-like Cultured Cardiocytes

Abstract The cardiac l -type calcium current (ICa,L) is an important regulator of myocardial contractility. It is activated by sympathetic stimulation and inhibited by parasympathetic activity via muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. Muscarinic inhibition of ICa,Loccurs via activation of pertussis toxin (PTX)-sensitive heterotrimeric G-proteins. Although recent studies have shown that expression of Goαis important for this effect in adult mouse ventricular cells, two other PTX-sensitive G-proteins (Gi2and Gi3) are also expressed in cardiocytes and are activated. Their role in the regulation of ICa,Lhas not been examined. In addition, it is not known whether nodal/atrial cardiac cells use the same G-proteins. We show that gene inactivation of each of the three PTX-sensitive Gα-proteins (αi2, αi3, and αo) affects muscarinic inhibition of cardiac ICa,Lin embryonic stem (ES) cell-derived cardiocytes. Inactivation of eitherαi2 or αi3markedly slows the time course of muscarinic inhibition of ICa,L, and in cells where both αi2and αi3are inactivated the effects are not additive. We also establish an essential role for αoin this atrial/nodal-like cardiocyte system and show that αoacts proximal to NO generation. NO generation plays a critical role in ICa,Lregulation since the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) antagonist, l -NMMA, blocked the inhibition of ICa,Lin WT and in αi2/αi3-null cells. In WT cells, the NO generating agent SIN-1 inhibited ICa,Land the addition of carbachol resulted in faster inhibition, suggesting that pathways in addition to NO are also activated. This study shows that αi2and αi3play a critical role in the normal inhibition of cardiocyte ICa,L. Thus, all muscarinic receptor activated G-proteins (Gi2, Gi3and Go) are necessary for normal inhibition and act through both NO and non-NO signaling pathways.
Consumer-Directed Goal Planning in the Delivery of Assistive Technology Services for People Who Are Ageing with Intellectual Disabilities.

Background A consumer-directed service-delivery approach to assistive technology and environmental modification intervention was examined with people who were ageing with intellectual disabilities. Material and Methods The intervention was based on a collaborative approach involving consumers, their social supports and service deliverers. Thirty individuals were randomly selected to receive the intervention from a sample of 75 community-dwelling adults. Outcomes related to consumers’ and significant others’ perceptions of performance and satisfaction with goal attainment were assessed and the consumer-directed goal planning process examined. Results Participants in the intervention group reported significantly higher levels of performance and satisfaction related to goals identified at baseline than participants in the control group. Two broad categories of goals were addressed during the intervention – basic self-care goals and participation/environmental/systems level goals. A 98% direct agreement rate between consumer-identified goals and goals addressed by service deliverers was found during the intervention. Of the environmental strategies employed during the intervention, assistive devices and systems level advocacy and action were the two most frequently used across goals. Conclusion Results provide evidence in favour of a consumer-directed approach to assistive technology and environmental modification service delivery for consumers who are ageing with intellectual disabilities.
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Prognostic Factors in Patients Treated with Surgery and Postoperative Radiation Therapy

PURPOSE: To determine survival outcomes, to identify adverse prognostic factors for relapse, and to compare American Joint Commission on Cancer (AJCC) staging systems in patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with surgery and postoperative radiation therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 1980 and 1995, 211 patients with NSCLC underwent surgery and postoperative radiation therapy. Surgery consisted of wedge resection (12.5%), lobectomy (67.8%), or pneumonectomy (19.7%). Pathologic stages (1992 AJCC) included I (n = 22), II (n = 70), IIIA (n = 104), and IIIB (n = 12). Indications for radiation therapy included compromised margins (n = 81) and/or positive mediastinal nodes (n = 55). Prognostic factors were identified by using univariate and multivariate models. RESULTS: Overall 3-year survival for patients with stage I, II, and IIIA cancer was 58.9%, 44.1%, and 43.2%, respectively. Older age (P = .008), male sex (P = .021), large primary tumor (P = .004), and multiple positive mediastinal ...
Claude Lefort, Political Anthropology, and Symbolic Division

Among the highlights of French thought in the 20th century, its anthropological tradition surely ranks as one of the most important, thanks to its vanguard role in the reshaping of theoretical assumptions across all of the human sciences. Claude Lefort’s encounter with that tradition, which has not figured significantly in the reception of his work, is crucial to grasping the shape of his career and the contours of some of his main theoretical commitments. As a broad illustration of this contention, this essay surveys Lefort’s relationship with his friend Pierre Clastres. But it also uses their relationship to address the relationship of the symbolic and the imaginary in his thought.
Automatic classification of cervical cells using a binary tree classifier

Abstract A k-means clustering algorithm for designing binary tree classifiers is introduced for the classification of cervical cells. At each nonterminal node of the designed binary tree classifier, two sets of effective feature are selected: one is based on the Bhattacharyya distance, a measure of separability between two classes; the other is based on the merits of classification accuracy. The classification result has shown the effectiveness of the features and the binary tree classifier used.
3rd US-EU workshop: systems level understanding of DNA damage responses.

Abstract The 3rd US–EU Workshop on systems level understanding of DNA damage responses was held from March 30 to April 1, 2009 in Egmond aan Zee, The Netherlands. Objectives of the workshop were (1) to assess the current science of the DDR, in particular network level responses to chemotherapeutic and environmentally induced DNA damage; and (2) to establish the basis for a reciprocal scientific exchange program between the EU and US in the relevant areas of DDR research. Here, we report the highlights of the meeting program and conclude that this third meeting in 2009 refined the role of DDR networks in human disease.
Report of the Task Force on Residency Training Information, American Board of Emergency Medicine

The American Board of Emergency Medicine gathers extensive background information on emergency medicine residents and the programs in which they train. Before the compilation of this report, this information has not been widely available.
Particle-in-cell studies of laser-driven hot spots and a statistical model for mesoscopic properties of Raman backscatter

The authors use explicit particle-in-cell simulations to model stimulated scattering processes in media with both solitary and multiple laser hot spots. These simulations indicate coupling among hot spots, whereby scattered light, plasma waves, and hot electrons generated in one laser hot spot may propagate to neighboring hot spots, which can be destabilized to enhanced backscatter. A nonlinear statistical model of a stochastic beam exhibiting this coupled behavior is described here. Calibration of the model using particle-in-cell simulations is performed, and a threshold is derived for "detonation" of the beam to high reflectivity.
Intravascular ultrasound imaging after cardiac transplantation: advantage of multi-vessel imaging.

Abstract Background Intravascular ultrasound is a sensitive tool to study transplant vasculopathy. However, there is no consensus regarding the methodology for imaging protocol. The impact of single versus multiple epicardial vessel imaging in determining the prevalence of transplant vasculopathy has not been determined. This study examines the benefit of three-vessel imaging versus one-vessel imaging in detecting transplant vasculopathy. Methods and results One hundred eleven transplant recipients with intravascular ultrasound imaging at baseline (within 2 months of transplantation) were studied: 107 at 1-year, 53 at 2-year and 41 at 3-year follow-up. A total of 222 arteries, 519 segments and 772 sites were analyzed (94 LAD, 65 LCX and 65 RCA). The prevalence of transplant vasculopathy lesions was 27%, 41% and 58% at 1 year, 39%, 55% and 71% at 2 years and 39%, 55% and 74% at 3 years for patients with one-, two- and three-vessel imaging, respectively. Single- or two-vessel disease was present in 23% (7) and 32% (10) patients with three-vessel imaging, leading to the potential mislabeling of these 17 (55%) patients as “disease free” if they underwent only single-vessel imaging. Conclusions Multivessel imaging is more sensitive in detecting the transplant vasculopathy lesions compared to single-vessel imaging. This important variable should be considered when designing and interpreting trials utilizing intravascular imaging derived end-point.
Advances In Photographic Techniques For Ocean Floor Search

When THRESHER sank on April 10, 1963 the NRL group, which joined the search, had never taken a single ocean floor photograph. Seven years and ten deep ocean searches later this same group has taken more bottom photographs than all others added together. During this period tremendous advances have been made. This paper reviews these advances and makes some projections for the future.© (1971) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Constructing Human Retinal Capillary Maps from Adaptive Optics SLO Imaging

We present a technique based on the adaptive optics confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope for generating complete capillary maps of regions of the human retina.
Lattice distortions in one-dimensional Ising chains

A model system consisting of a lattice of linear Ising chains with magnetic interactions only along the chains interacting with three-dimensional phonons has been investigated. It is shown that the thermodynamic properties of this model are equivalent to those of a three -dimensional pseudospin Ising model on a fixed lattice in an external magnetic field. This shows explicitly that one-dimensional systems can undergo phase transitions when coupled to three-dimensional phonons. Further, the mean-field approximation in which the phonon normal-mode coordinate is replaced by its thermal average is shown to be an arbitrarily bad approximation depending on the form of the phonon dispersion. When certain conditions are satisfied, the model exhibits a structural phase transition which increases the lattice periodicity. The relevant properties of the structural phase transition such as the lattice distortions, the soft-mode frequency, and the width of the central peak may be expressed exactly in terms of the properties of the pseudospin Ising model.
Prevalence, correlates, and symptom profiles of depression among men with a history of military service

Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence, correlates, and symptom profiles of depressive disorders in men with a history of military service.
A permeation enhancer for increasing transport of therapeutic macromolecules across the intestine

Delivery of therapeutic macromolecules is limited by the physiological limitations of the gastrointestinal tract including poor intestinal permeability, low pH and enzymatic activity. Several permeation enhancers have been proposed to enhance intestinal permeability of macromolecules; however their utility is often hindered by toxicity and limited potency. Here, we report on a novel permeation enhancer, Dimethyl palmitoyl ammonio propanesulfonate (PPS), with excellent enhancement potential and minimal toxicity. PPS was tested for dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity, delivery of two model fluorescent molecules, sulforhodamine-B and FITC-insulin in vitro, and absorption enhancement of salmon calcitonin (sCT) in vivo. Caco-2 studies revealed that PPS is an effective enhancer of macromolecular transport while being minimally toxic. TEER measurements in Caco-2 monolayers confirmed the reversibility of the effect of PPS. Confocal microscopy studies revealed that molecules permeate via both paracellular and transcellular pathways in the presence of PPS. In vivo studies in rats showed that PPS enhanced relative bioavailability of sCT by 45-fold after intestinal administration. Histological studies showed that PPS does not induce damage to the intestine. PPS is an excellent permeation enhancer which provides new opportunities for developing efficacious oral/intestinal delivery systems for therapeutic macromolecules.
Colonoscopy in octogenarians: a review of 428 cases.

Studies on the use of colonoscopy in the octogenarian are few. Therefore this study evaluated the results and cost-effectiveness of colonoscopy in octogenarians. A total of 403 patients 80 years of age or older who underwent colonoscopy from May 1994 to May 1996 were reviewed (median 84, range 80-95). Parameters evaluated were indications for colonoscopy, significant endoscopic findings (biopsy-confirmed adenocarcinoma and adenomatous polyps >/=1 cm), complications, colonoscopy completion rate, and mean charge per procedure. Postpolypectomy bleeding occurred in one patient. The cecal intubation rate was 94%. The calculated cost per procedure was U.S. $2,342. Indications for colonoscopy/number of cancers detected include: change in bowel habits, 78/2; blood/hemoccult positive, 69/8; abdominal pain, 12/0; constipation, 9/0; diarrhea, 8/0; surveillance for history of polyps, 159/3; surveillance for history of cancer, 51/1; cancer or polyp on sigmoidoscopy, 42/4. The cancer detection rate in patients with bleeding was 11.5%, compared with 1. 9% for all other symptoms. Colonoscopy can be safely performed in the octogenarian population. Our data suggest that more stringent selection criteria for colonoscopy in the octogenarian could result in significant cost savings.
Concentration of Perfluorohexyl Bromide in dog Plasma and Selected Tissues

Beagle dogs received single perfluorohexyl bromide doses, either 30.2 g/kg po or 3.8 g/kg intratracheally. The apparent first-order plasma half-life during the terminal elimination phase was ˜8 hr after oral treatment and >8 hr after intratracheal administration. Tissue analysis showed the highest mean concentration of the compound in abdominal fat 1 week after intratracheal administration. One dog had detectable levels in abdominal fat 4 weeks after treatment by either administration route.
How to assign service areas in a cellular mobile telephone system

A cellular mobile telephone system is usually divided into service areas that are employed for different mobility management needs. For instance, sites in the system are grouped into location areas that are used to find mobiles and terminate incoming calls. In this way, the system only needs to track the movement of users when they cross from one service area to another. Still, since the tracking is done using radio bandwidth that is needed for telephone calls, it is important to carefully design the service areas to minimize the mobility management load. The authors define the characteristics that are needed in the service areas for digital cellular systems and state the service area design problem as a graph partitioning optimization problem where the goal is to minimize the diameter of the resulting subgraphs. A heuristic technique is then proposed to design service areas in a systematic and efficient way. This technique achieves better utilization of system resources and produces service areas whose characteristics are close to optimal. >
Derivation of simplified signal transduction pathway models: Application to IL-6 signaling

Mathematical models of signal transduction pathways are characterized by a large number of proteins and uncertain parameters. One challenge involving these models is parameter identifiability as only a limited amount of quantitative data is generally available. One potential solution to this problem is model simplification, as the parts of the model that cannot be identified in experiments can be reduced. It is the main goal of the presented work to derive a model simplification procedure for signal transduction pathways such that: 1) the model size is significantly reduced such that the model can be validated using available experimental data, and 2) the physical interpretation of the remaining states and parameters is retained. The presented technique is used to derive a simplified version of an IL-6 signal transduction model. The number of equations and parameters in the model has been reduced from 68 to 13 and from 118 to 19, respectively. It is shown that the identifiability of the model has improved significantly. The new model is able to adequately predict the dynamic behavior of key proteins of the signal transduction pathway both in simulations but also when compared to available experimental data.
Synthesis and characterisation of lanthanide phenolate compounds and their catalytic activity towards ring-opening polymerisation of cyclic esters.

Five new heteroleptic lanthanide(III) phenolate compounds have been synthesised in high yield, four via a transamination reaction between Ln(N(SiMe3)2)3 and two equivalents of the phenol, HOC6H4(2,4-But)CH2N(Me)CH2CH2NMe2 (LH) in thf {L2LnN(SiMe3)2 where Ln = La (1); Nd (2); Sm (3); Yb (4)}. The fifth compound, [L2La][BPh4] 5 was formed by conversion of 1 by treatment with one equivalent of [Et3NH][BPh4] in toluene. Compound 3 was subjected to a single-crystal X-ray analysis and revealed a five-coordinate, distorted trigonal bipyramidal samarium(III) metal centre where each phenolate ligand is bidentate coordinating through the phenolate oxygen and nitrogen yielding six-membered chelate rings. Compound 1 exhibited fluxional behaviour in C4D8O solution which was temperature dependent. All five compounds were assessed as catalyst precursors towards the ring-opening polymerisation of both L-lactide and e-caprolactone. These polymerisation studies revealed that catalysts containing larger lanthanide metals were more efficacious than those with smaller lanthanide metals. Furthermore, replacement of the [N(SiMe3)2] initiating group in 1 with [BPh4] in 5 reduced catalytic activity by this compound. Detailed kinetics analysis of the ring-opening polymerisation of L-lactide by compound 1, the most efficacious catalyst precursor analysed in this study, revealed the following rate law: −d[LA]/dt = k[LA]2[1]1 which is second order in lactide and first order in catalyst. End-group analysis by ESI mass spectrometry revealed the presence of phenolate end-groups and lactide cycles, the latter formed by intra-molecular, intrachain transesterification.
Relativistic configuration interaction calculations for electronic states of KrHe

Abstract Relativistic configuration interaction calculations have been carried out on the 2 Π 3 2 , 2 Π 1 2 , 2 Σ + , B 2 Σ + , C 2 Σ + and D 2 Π electronic states of KrHe + Our calculations provide interaction potentials for Kr + +He + as well as Kr+He + systems. Spectroscopic properties and potential energy curves of many electronic states are predicted which are yet to be observed.
Dissimilatory Fe(III) and Mn(IV) Reduction by Shewanella putrefaciens Requires ferE, a Homolog of the pulE (gspE) Type II Protein Secretion Gene

Shewanella putrefaciens strain 200 respires anaerobically on a wide range of compounds as the sole terminal electron acceptor, including ferric iron [Fe(III)] and manganese oxide [Mn(IV)]. Previous studies demonstrated that a 23.3-kb S. putrefaciens wild-type DNA fragment conferred metal reduction capability to a set of respiratory mutants with impaired Fe(III) and Mn(IV) reduction activities (T. DiChristina and E. DeLong, J. Bacteriol. 176:1468-1474, 1994). In the present study, the smallest complementing fragment was found to contain one open reading frame (ORF) (ferE) whose translated product displayed 87% sequence similarity to Aeromonas hydrophila ExeE, a member of the PulE (GspE) family of proteins found in type II protein secretion systems. Insertional mutants E726 and E912, constructed by targeted replacement of wild-type ferE with an insertionally inactivated ferE construct, were unable to respire anaerobically on Fe(III) or Mn(IV) yet retained the ability to grow on all other terminal electron acceptors. Nucleotide sequence analysis of regions flanking ferE revealed the presence of one partial and two complete ORFs whose translated products displayed 55 to 70% sequence similarity to the PulD, -F, and -G homologs of type II secretion systems. A contiguous cluster of 12 type II secretion genes (pulC to -N homologs) was found in the unannotated genome sequence of Shewanella oneidensis (formerly S. putrefaciens) MR-1. A 91-kDa heme-containing protein involved in Fe(III) reduction was present in the peripheral proteins loosely attached to the outside face of the outer membrane of the wild-type and complemented (Fer+) B31 transconjugates yet was missing from this location in Fer mutants E912 and B31 and in uncomplemented (Fer-) B31 transconjugates. Membrane fractionation studies with the wild-type strain supported this finding: the 91-kDa heme-containing protein was detected with the outer membrane fraction and not with the inner membrane or soluble fraction. These findings provide the first genetic evidence linking dissimilatory metal reduction to type II protein secretion and provide additional biochemical evidence supporting outer membrane localization of S. putrefaciens proteins involved in anaerobic respiration on Fe(III) and Mn(IV).
Central losartan attenuates increases in arterial pressure and expression of FosB/ΔFosB along the autonomic axis associated with chronic intermittent hypoxia

Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) increases mean arterial pressure (MAP) and FosB/ΔFosB staining in central autonomic nuclei. To test the role of the brain renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in CIH hypertension, rats were implanted with intracerebroventricular (icv) cannulae delivering losartan (1 μg/h) or vehicle (VEH) via miniosmotic pumps and telemetry devices for arterial pressure recording. A third group was given the same dose of losartan subcutaneously (sc). Two groups of losartan-treated rats served as normoxic controls. Rats were exposed to CIH or normoxia for 7 days and then euthanized for immunohistochemistry. Intracerebroventricular losartan attenuated CIH-induced increases in arterial pressure during CIH exposure (0800-1600 during the light phase) on days 1, 6, and 7 and each day during the normoxic dark phase. FosB/ΔFosB staining in the organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis (OVLT), median preoptic nucleus (MnPO), paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN), the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM), and the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) was decreased in icv losartan-treated rats. Subcutaneous losartan also reduced CIH hypertension during the last 2 days of CIH and produced bradycardia prior to the effect on blood pressure. Following sc losartan, FosB/ΔFosB staining was reduced only in the OVLT, MnPO, PVN, and NTS. These data indicate that the central and peripheral RAS contribute to CIH-induced hypertension and transcriptional activation of autonomic nuclei and that the contribution of the central RAS is greater during the normoxic dark phase of CIH hypertension.
Using stem cells to study and possibly treat type 1 diabetes

Stem cells with the potential to form many different cell types are actively studied for their possible use in cell replacement therapies for several diseases. In addition, the differentiated derivatives of stem cells are being used as reagents to test for drugs that slow or correct disease phenotypes found in several degenerative diseases. This paper explores these approaches in the context of type 1 or juvenile diabetes, pointing to recent successes as well as the technical and theoretical challenges that lie ahead in the path to new treatments and cures.
The Western progression of lyme disease: infectious and Nonclonal Borrelia burgdorferi Sensu Lato populations in Grand Forks County, North Dakota.

ABSTRACT Scant attention has been paid to Lyme disease, Borrelia burgdorferi, Ixodes scapularis, or reservoirs in eastern North Dakota despite the fact that it borders high-risk counties in Minnesota. Recent reports of B. burgdorferi and I. scapularis in North Dakota, however, prompted a more detailed examination. Spirochetes cultured from the hearts of five rodents trapped in Grand Forks County, ND, were identified as B. burgdorferi sensu lato through sequence analyses of the 16S rRNA gene, the 16S rRNA gene- ileT intergenic spacer region, flaB , ospA , ospC , and p66 . OspC typing revealed the presence of groups A, B, E, F, L, and I. Two rodents were concurrently carrying multiple OspC types. Multilocus sequence typing suggested the eastern North Dakota strains are most closely related to those found in neighboring regions of the upper Midwest and Canada. BALB/c mice were infected with B. burgdorferi isolate M3 (OspC group B) by needle inoculation or tick bite. Tibiotarsal joints and ear pinnae were culture positive, and B. burgdorferi M3 was detected by quantitative PCR (qPCR) in the tibiotarsal joints, hearts, and ear pinnae of infected mice. Uninfected larval I. scapularis ticks were able to acquire B. burgdorferi M3 from infected mice; M3 was maintained in I. scapularis during the molt from larva to nymph; and further, M3 was transmitted from infected I. scapularis nymphs to naive mice, as evidenced by cultures and qPCR analyses. These results demonstrate that isolate M3 is capable of disseminated infection by both artificial and natural routes of infection. This study confirms the presence of unique (nonclonal) and infectious B. burgdorferi populations in eastern North Dakota.
Determination of 36Cl Production Rates Derived from the Well-Dated Deglaciation Surfaces of Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands, Washington

The 36Cl dating method is increasingly being used to determine the surface-exposure history of Quaternary landforms. Production rates for the 36Cl isotopic system, a critical component of the dating method, have now been refined using the well-constrained radiocarbon-based deglaciation history of Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands, Washington. The calculated total production rates due to calcium and potassium are 91±5 atoms 36Cl (g Ca)−1 yr−1 and are 228±18 atoms 36Cl (g K)−1 yr−1, respectively. The calculated ground-level secondary neutron production rate in air, Pf(0), inferred from thermal neutron absorption by 35Cl is 762±28 neutrons (g air)−1 yr−1 for samples with low water content (1–2 wt.%). Neutron absorption by serpentinized harzburgite samples of the same exposure age, having higher water content (8–12 wt.%), is ∼40% greater relative to that for dry samples. These data suggest that existing models do not adequately describe thermalization and capture of neutrons for hydrous rock samples. Calculated 36Cl ages of samples collected from the surfaces of a well-dated dacite flow (10,600–12,800 cal yr B.P.) and three disparate deglaciated localities are consistent with close limiting calibrated 14C ages, thereby supporting the validity of our 36Cl production rates integrated over the last ∼15,500 cal yr between latitudes of 46.5° and 51°N. Although our production rates are internally consistent and yield reasonable exposure ages for other localities, there nevertheless are significant differences between these production rates and those of other investigators.
Watermelon stomach: Pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management

Watermelon Stomach (WS) has been increasingly recognized as an important cause of occult gastrointestinal blood loss. Clinically, patients develop significant iron deficiency anemia and are frequently transfusion dependent. The histologic hallmark of WS is superficial fibromuscular hyperplasia of gastric antral mucosa with capillary ectasia and microvascular thrombosis in the lamina propria. Endoscopic findings of the longitudinal antral folds containing visible columns of tortuous red ectatic vessels (watermelon stripes) are pathognomonic for WS. Trauma to the mucosal epithelium overlying engorged vessels by gastric acid or intraluminal food results in bleeding. Treatment options for WS include endoscopic, pharmacologic, and surgical approaches. Endoscopic therapy, including contact and non-contact thermal ablations of the angiodysplastic lesions, is the mainstay of conservative therapy. However, many patients fail endoscopic therapy and develop recurrent acute and chronic GI bleeding episodes. Surgical resection may be the only reliable method for achieving a cure and eliminating transfusion dependency. Traditionally, surgery was used only as a last resort after patients failed prolonged medical and/or endoscopic therapy. However, based on the experience garnered from the literature we recommend a more aggressive surgical approach in patients who fail a short trial of endoluminal therapy.