cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reactions of chlorinated ethenes with surface-sulfidated iron materials: reactivity enhancement and inhibition effects

Recent studies on the use of controlled sulfur amendment to improve the reactivity and selectivity of zerovalent iron (ZVI) in reductive dechlorination reactions have generated renewed interest in ZVI-based remediation materials. However, existing studies have focused on the reactions between trichloroethene (TCE) and lab-synthesized ZVI, and the applicability of sulfidation to ZVIs with different material characteristics for reductive dechlorination of chloroethenes such as tetrachloroethene (PCE) and cis-dichloroethene (cis-DCE) has not been systematically examined. In this study, four ZVI materials from commercial sources having different sizes and morphological and compositional characteristics were subjected to various sulfidation treatments and were assessed in batch reactions with PCE, TCE, or cis-DCE. Sulfur amendment induces modest increases in PCE degradation rates and steers reactions towards a cleaner pathway that has minimum accumulation of partially dechlorinated intermediates. In the case of cis-DCE, bifurcating outcomes were observed that include enhancement effects for two high-purity ZVIs and inhibitory effects for two ZVIs possessing low levels of metal impurities. Further investigations based on controlled metal dosing reveal that the trace metals commonly present in cast iron or recycled metal scraps, such as Cu and Ni, can act as adventitious catalysts for cis-DCE reduction. Sulfidation results in poisoning of these catalytic ingredients and accounts for the adverse effect observed with a subset of ZVIs. Collectively, this study confirms enhanced degradation of highly chlorinated ethenes (PCE and TCE) by sulfidation of ZVIs from diverse origins; nonetheless, the effects of sulfidation can be highly variable for the less chlorinated ethenes due to differences in the material characteristics of ZVI and the predominant dechlorination pathways.
Polymorphism of simple sequence repeats may quantitatively regulate gene transcription.

Abstract The degree of polymorphism, i.e., DNA sequence divergence, of short AT-rich tandemly arranged simple sequence repeats at or near promoters and 5′- untranslated regions of mRNA may quantitatively regulate transcription of tissue-specific genes. Less polymorphic repeats allow greater gene expression. Preferential binding of hypophosphorylated H1 histone to these repeats may diminish binding of transcription factors. Preferential binding of hypophosphorylated high mobility group chromatin proteins would increase this binding. Shorter simple sequence repeats have undergone fewer point mutations than longer repeats, hence they are less polymorphic and more conserved. The role of transcribed simple sequence repeats in frog embryo germ layer determination is considered.
Popper’s Analysis of Probability in Quantum Mechanics

Since the early 1930s, Popper has been publishing articles about the foundations of quantum mechanics. and he has had many useful things to say in a number of books and articles. With some hesitation, I have narrowed the scope of what I shall discuss to two topics: the propensity interpretation of probability and quantum mechanics as a statistical theory. Throughout his writings, but especially in The Logic of Scientific Discovery, Popper has a great deal to say also about measurement in quantum mechanics. I shall not discuss these matters except as they bear upon his conception of the role of probability in quantum mechanics.
Disorder and Discontinuity in Law and Morality

For every legal concept X, there are clear instances exemplifying an X and clear instances exemplifying a non-X. The cases that come before courts are those that seem to lie in between, being neither clearly an X nor clearly a non-X. It is tempting to think that, being in-between, they should receive an in-between treatment, that is, to the extent that they are an X they should be treated as an X. If they are sixty percent toward being an X, they should get sixty percent of the treatment due an X. But this presupposes that in-between cases can be rank-ordered at least roughly according to the degree of their X-ness. This Article explains why that generally cannot be done and why courts therefore go for an either/or approach: something gets treated either as an X or as a non-X. The explanation is rooted in the kind of phenomena explored in the theory of social choice and multi-criterial decision-making.
Thrombosis secondary to protein-losing enteropathy (PLE): A case report and review

Abstract Protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) is an uncommon diagnosis, caused by primary gastrointestinal disease, secondary to systemic disorders or an idiopathic condition. Little is known about its epidemiology, and it may be under-diagnosed, but case reports are increasing worldwide. The mechanism behind PLE is largely unknown, but involves excess protein loss through the gastrointestinal tract, in the absence of proteinuria, resulting in severe hypoalbuminemia. We report the case of a 35-year-old Asian-American female who presented with acute limb ischemia and was found to have recurrent thrombosis from PLE with underlying systemic lupus erythematous (SLE). A review of cases reporting thrombosis in PLE shows that venous events are twice as common as arterial. Peripheral vessels, cardiac, visceral and CNS vessels have all been reportedly affected. The ideal anticoagulation in PLE is not established and there are reports of heparin and warfarin resistance. Our case is the first to report use of dabigatran and aspirin in this setting Thrombosis in SLE should prompt consideration of not only antiphospholipid syndrome but also PLE. Larger studies defining PLE thrombotic risk and leading to evidence-based anticoagulation are urgently required.
Laryngeal vocalizations: Grunts as a gateway to language?

Abstract The ‘grunt’, a laryngeal vocalization functioning communicatively in many primate repertoires, including humans’, has been implicated in both evolution and development of language. Within one month of communicative grunt onset human infants studied by McCune and colleagues transitioned to referential language. Human infants’ transition to referential language is impacted by a dynamic system of variables: mental representation, vocal motor skill, gesture, and communicative grunts, occurring in the context of affective attachment and developing inter-subjectivity with caregiver(s). Across mammalian species grunts are an initial reflex response to autonomic demand (e.g. effort). From the Darwinian notion of a behavior initially beneficial for an animal being co-opted for communicative use, the shift from autonomic to communicative grunt may act as an engine for development and evolution. Chimpanzee and vervet infants are similar to humans in the shift of grunts from effort to communication, but differ in levels of mental representation and intersubjectivity, indicating chimpanzees’ closer relationship with common ancestors to humans. Protolanguage(s) no doubt relied upon such developments in the young as a critical path to the adult repertoire. Where related species share characteristics, these are implicated for common ancestors.
Sleep disturbance in cancer patients referred to an ambulatory integrative oncology consultation.

BACKGROUND Sleep disturbance (SD) is highly prevalent in oncology and negatively affects quality of life and mortality. Evidence supports the use of integrative oncology (IO) practices to treat SD, but there is limited published data on the characteristics of SD and factors associated with SD in IO. We determined the prevalence, severity, and factors associated with SD among cancer patients seen in an ambulatory IO consultation. METHODS Patients with cancer referred for initial outpatient IO consultation in 2017 were eligible. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and patient-reported outcomes (Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS), Measure Yourself Concerns and Wellbeing (MYCaW), PROMIS-10) were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS One thousand five hundred twenty patients were included in the analysis. The majority (70%) were women with breast cancer (42%). Nine hundred seventy-one (64%) patients reported significant SD with ESAS Sleep ≥ 4, yet only 11% expressed poor sleep as their primary or secondary concern for the IO consultation. The median SD (IQR) was 5 (3,7). ESAS scores for fatigue (adjusted OR 1.16; CI 1.07-1.26, p < 0.001), pain (adjusted OR 1.07; CI 1.00-1.15, p < 0.05), hot flashes (adjusted OR 1.14; CI 1.07-1.22, p < 0.001), well-being (adjusted OR 1.33; CI 1.22-1.46, p < 0.001), and psychological distress score (anxiety and depression) (adjusted OR 1.16; CI 1.01-1.11, p < 0.01) were independently associated with SD in multivariate analysis. Acupuncture was the most frequent intervention prescribed, 175 (35%). Other modalities included oncology massage (15%), health psychology (5%), and meditation (1%). CONCLUSIONS Although 64% of patients seeking IO consultation reported clinically significant SD, only 11% were seeking integrative approaches for managing SD. ESAS fatigue, hot flashes, well-being, and psychological symptoms were significantly associated with SD.
SU-E-T-756: Tissue Inhomogeneity Corrections in Intra-Operative Radiotherapy

Purpose: Investigate the impact of tissue inhomogeneities on dose distributions produced by low-energy X-rays in intra-operative radiotherapy (IORT). Methods: A 50-kV INTRABEAM X-ray device with superficial (Flat and Surface) applicators was commissioned at our institution. For each applicator, percent depth-dose (PDD), dose-profiles (DP) and output factors (OF) were obtained. Calibrated GaFchromic (EBT3) films were used to measure dose distributions in solid water phantom at various depths (2, 5, 10, and 15 mm). All recommended precautions for film-handling, film-exposure and scanning were observed. The effects of tissue inhomogeneities on dose distributions were examined by placing air-cavities and bone and tissue equivalent materials of different density (ρ), atomic number (Z), and thickness (t = 0–4mm) between applicator and film detector. All inhomogeneities were modeled as a cylindrical cavity (diameter 25 mm). Treatment times were calculated to deliver 1Gy dose at 5mm depth. Film results were verified by repeat measurements with a thin-window parallel plate ion-chamber (PTW 34013A) in a water tank. Results: For a Flat-4cm applicator, the measured dose rate at 5mm depth in solid water was 0.35 Gy/min. Introduction of a cylindrical air-cavity resulted in an increased dose past the inhomogeneity. Compared to tissue equivalent medium, dose enhancement due to 1mm, 2mm, 3mm and 4mm air cavities was 10%, 16%, 24%, and 35% respectively. X-ray attenuation by 2mm thick cortical bone resulted in a significantly large (58%) dose decrease. Conclusion: IORT dose calculations assume homogeneous tissue equivalent medium. However, soft X-rays are easily affected by non-tissue equivalent materials. The results of this study may be used to estimate and correct IORT dose delivered in the presence of tissue inhomogeneities.
Protein topography of Sulfolobus solfataricus ribosomes by cross-linking with 2-iminothiolane. Sso L12e, Sso L10e, and Sso L11e are neighbors.

Abstract Large ribosomal subunits from Sulfolobus solfataricus were cross-linked with 2-iminothiolane in order to investigate the arrangement of proteins in the region containing the multicopy acidic protein Sso L12e, the protein homologous to Escherichia coli L7/L12. Proteins from cross-linked 50 S subunits were extracted and fractionated by chromatography on CM-cellulose. Fractions containing Sso L12e were analyzed by "diagonal" (two-dimensional reducing/nonreducing) dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Sso L12e appeared in cross-linked homodimers and also in cross-linked complexes that contained Sso L10e, the protein equivalent to E. coli L10. In addition, Sso L12e was found in cross-links to L4, L6a, L26, and L29. N-terminal sequences obtained for L6a and L26 showed them to have significant homologies to E. coli proteins L11 and L23, respectively. The results indicate the presence in this archaebacterial ribosome of Sso L12e dimers and their location near Sso L10e and Sso L11e. The Sso L12e-L29 (Sso L23e) cross-link suggests proximity between components of the factor-binding and peptidyltransferase domains, since E. coli L23 is a protein affinity-labeled by puromycin. The (Sso L12e)4-Sso L10 pentameric complex, identified previously from studies in solution, appears to represent correctly the arrangement of these proteins in the ribosome. The occurrence in the archaebacterial ribosome of this unique structural element, similar to those shown previously in eubacteria and eukaryotes, reinforces the concept that the protein quaternary structure of the ribosomal factor-binding domain is highly conserved.
Surface/Atmosphere Interactions and Volatile Transport (Triton, Pluto, and Io)

On Triton and Pluto, the volatile frosts are held close to a single temperature by hydrostatic equilibrium and latent heat transport. Their atmospheres are expected to undergo extreme seasonal variations in pressure as the insolation on the ices changes, leading to seasonal variations in atmospheric mixing ratios and to the seasonal hemispherical transport of surface ice. A depth of approximately one meter of N 2 ice is transported on semiannual timescales; this is far in excess of the maximum mass of these atmospheres. Pluto’s present atmospheric escape rate implies that over the life of the solar system, ~ 2 km of N 2 ice could have escaped from Pluto. Two alternative models have been proposed which can produce the observed elevated levels of CH 4 in Pluto’s atmosphere, both focusing on surface-atmosphere interactions. The “Detailed Balancing Model” assumes that a CH 4-enriched surface layer, only a few molecules thick and effectively in vapor pressure equilibrium with the atmosphere, reduces the partial pressure of N 2 enough to explain the enhanced atmospheric mixing ratio of CH 4. The “Patch Model” assumes that the sublimation of N 2 leaves behind a relatively small fractional area (at most 1%) of CH 4 ‘lag’ deposit which develops into rather thick, warm local patches which release CH 4 into the atmosphere.
Purification and phosphorylation of the Arc regulatory components of Escherichia coli.

Abstract In Escherichia coli, a two-component signal transduction system, consisting of the transmembrane sensor protein ArcB and its cognate cytoplasmic regulatory protein ArcA, controls the expression of genes encoding enzymes involved in aerobic respiration. ArcB belongs to a subclass of sensors that have not only a conserved histidine-containing transmitter domain but also a conserved aspartate-containing receiver domain of the regulator family. 'ArcB (a genetically truncated ArcB missing the two transmembrane segments on the N-terminal end) and ArcA were purified from overproducing cells. Autophosphorylation of 'ArcB was revealed when the protein was incubated with [gamma-32P]ATP but not with [alpha-32P]ATP or [gamma-32P]GTP. When ArcA was incubated in the presence of 'ArcB and [gamma-32P]ATP, ArcA acquired radioactivity at the expense of the phosphorylated protein 'ArcB-32P. When a limited amount of 'ArcB was incubated with excess ArcA and [gamma-32P]ATP, ArcA-32P increased linearly with time. Under such conditions, for a given time period the amount of ArcA phosphorylated was proportional to the concentration of 'ArcB. Thus, 'ArcB acted as a kinase for ArcA. Chemical stabilities of the phosphorylated proteins suggested that 'ArcB-32P contained both a histidyl phosphate and an aspartyl phosphate(s) and that ArcA-32P contained only an aspartyl phosphate(s).
Hormone Resistance in Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in men in the United States. Projected estimates for 1999 indicate that there will be approximately 179,300 newly diagnosed prostate cancers and 37,000 men will die from this disease [1]. While organ confined prostate cancer is potentially curable with radical prostatectomy and/or radiation, treatment of locally advanced or metastatic disease remains palliative. In those symptomatic patients with newly diagnosed metastatic prostate cancer, androgen deprivation is the front-line treatment. Androgen ablation therapy is useful and results in stabilization or regression of disease in approximately 80% of patients. Unfortunately, most of these patients will fail and inevitably progress to hormone-independent disease. In this review the authors will attempt to summarize the salient points which may contribute to the mechanism of hormone resistance as well as briefly review the current treatment regimens for patients with hormone refractory prostate cancer.
Children of Parents With Mental Illness

Many psychiatrically ill women bear and raise children. An extensive literature has documented the potential effects on children resulting from exposure to parental mental illness. Negative outcomes may also result from children’s genetic vulnerabilities, exposure to environmental stressors, and maladaptive parenting styles. Parents’ psychiatric symptoms can affect their parenting behavior and interfere with their awareness of their children’s needs. This chapter reviews the effects of parental mental illness on children and discusses various interventions that can help minimize adverse outcomes. It also addresses ethical and legal issues that arise when working with mentally ill parents.
Estimating the Correlation of Non-Contemporaneous Time-Series

Daily financial time-series are often observed with different closing times: for example the FTSE stock index closes 11am NY time while the S&P500 stock index closes 4pm NY time. The non-contemporaneous observations mean the na?ve correlation estimator is biased. This paper reviews the problem, discusses some simple estimators previously used in the literature, develops a maximum likelihood estimator, and compares estimators via simulations. We find two important results. First, a pseudo-ML estimator performs best, while simple method-of-moment estimators perform well in certain cases. Second, the standard error of the correlation estimator can be surprisingly large relative to the contemporaneous observations case.
Oncoplastic breast surgery: current strategies

The surgical management of breast cancer has dramatically evolved over the past 20 years, with oncoplastic surgery gaining increased popularity. This field of breast surgery allows for complete resection of tumor, preservation of normal parenchyma tissue, and the use of local or regional tissue for immediate breast reconstruction at the time of partial mastectomy. These techniques extend the options for breast conservation surgery, improve aesthetic outcomes, have high patient satisfaction and result in better control of tumor margins. This article will detail the approach to evaluating and treating patients undergoing oncoplastic reconstruction. Different oncoplastic approaches will be described and applied to an oncoplastic reconstructive algorithm. Surgical complications, oncologic outcomes and aesthetic outcomes are reviewed.
Unstructured uncertainty and graphic robust control system design

Preliminary results regarding robust control design in the presence of unstructured uncertainty are presented. The basic aim is to develop graphic tools to carry out computer aided design for this type of uncertain system. The core of the tool is a modified Nichols chart, where the magnitudes of both sensitivity and complementary sensitivity are depicted. It is shown that unstructured plant uncertainty can be very easily represented and manipulated on this diagram. It is also shown that Horowitz's design philosophy can be easily implemented using simple templates extracted from the chart itself. >
Toward an Engineering Model of Stimulus-Response Compatibility

Publisher Summary This chapter examines an engineering model of stimulus-response (S-R) compatibility. Immediate behavior is often exhibited in the experimental world with choice-reaction tasks and the response to a stimulus is well known and initiated immediately upon presentation of the stimulus, without deliberation about what response is appropriate. It is found that when sets of stimuli are mapped into different sets of responses, and the response time or accuracy of these mappings differ, S-R compatibility effects are observed. The rudimentary operations performed by the perceptual processor, the cognitive processor, and the motor processor change the user's mental state or cause physical changes in the state of the world. Operators are defined to be sufficiently independent of the task environment that they can be combined to perform many different tasks. The operators are sufficiently independent of each other that the time to perform each one in isolation can be used as an estimate of the time to perform that operator within a sequence of operators. These two independence assumptions allow models of complex user behavior to be constructed from the building blocks of the model human processor
A reconsideration of the origins of the type 2 diabetes epidemic among Native Americans and the implications for intervention policy.

Type 2 diabetes has reached epidemic proportions in many Native American communities in North America. The overwhelming majority of physicians, biomedical researchers, and medical ecologists continue to explain the astoundingly high prevalence rates of diabetes among Native Americans and other high prevalence populations in terms of yet‐to‐be‐identified genetic factors. Recent experimental and epidemiological research, however, has brought to light an etiological alternative to the genetic‐predisposition model. This body of research suggests that type 2 diabetes may result initially from fetal malnutrition and, in subsequent generations, be propagated via perturbations in the intrauterine environment. Native American populations at greatest risk for diabetes today are the ones most likely to have endured severe nutritional stress in their recent histories, thus experiencing the conditions that are most conducive to the diabetic developmental sequence. If further substantiated, the implications of the feta...
Lack of cross-reactive allergic response to brimonidine in patients with known apraclonidine allergy.

Purpose To assess the allergenic potential of topical brimonidine 0.2% in patients shown to be allergic to apraclonidine 0.5%. Methods Eighteen glaucoma patients who developed allergy to apraclonidine were enrolled. Allergy was graded and documented photographically. Apraclonidine was then discontinued until the allergy resolved. Grading and photography were repeated, following which treatment with brimonidine was initiated. Patients were examined 1 h after the initial drop of brimonidine, twice weekly for 6 weeks, and at 3 monthly intervals thereafter. All other anti-glaucoma medications were continued. Results Mean patient age was 66.3 ± 14.9 years (range 33.5-89.3 years). The mean time to apraclonidine allergy from initial exposure was 12.9 ± 12.9 months (range 2.1-46.8 months). For the 10 patients rechallenged with apraclonidine, the mean time to allergy was 13.6 ± 10.2 days (range 3-32 days). Mean duration of brimonidine therapy was 140.7 ± 66.2 days (range 14-286 days), with 11 patients reaching at least 150 days of follow-up. Two patients developed symptomatic brimonidine allergy at 138 and 201 days respectively. For those patients who did not develop symptoms of allergy to brimonidine, there was no significant change in any of the parameters by which allergy was graded throughout the study. Conclusions Patients with known apraclonidine allergy do not develop an early allergic response to brimonidine. These data rule against a cross-reactive allergic response between these two alpha2-adrenoreceptor agonists.
Experimental histoplasmosis in temporarily „hibernating“ hamsters

Although occasional hibernation was observed in golden hamsters kept at low temperatures during the winter months, the periods of hibernation were apparently too short to induce conversion of the yeast cells ofH. capsulatum into the mycelial phase or to prevent conversion into the yeast phase when inoculated in the mycelial phase.
Effects of pulsatile pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) on gonadotropin secretion and subunit mRNA levels in perifused rat pituitary cells

The effects of pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) administered intermittently on gonadotropin secretion and subunit mRNA levels in anterior pituitary cells from 7wk old intact and orchidectomized rats were studied. Cells were perifused for 9 h with hourly pulses of 2.5 nM GnRH or 10 nM PACAP, or with medium alone. Pulsatile PACAP initiated episodes of LH, FSH and α-subunit secretion, but was much less effective than GnRH. Responsiveness declined with repeated pulses of PACAP, although interpulse secretion increased gradually throughout the experiment. PACAP was a slightly more effective stimulator of LH release by pituitary cells from castrated than intact rats. At the completion of perifusion, pituitary RNA from castrated rats was extracted for measurement of gonadotropin subunit mRNA levels. Pulsatile PACAP stimulated α-subunit and LHβ mRNA levels but did not affect FSHβ mRNA. By contrast, continuous PACAP increased α-subunit mRNA levels, but suppressed FSHβ mRNA without affecting LHβ mRNA. We conclude that pulsatile PACAP is a relatively ineffective stimulator of gonadotropin secretion when administered alone, and regulates gonadotopin subunit gene expression quite differently than continuous PACAP. We propose that the mode of PACAP secretion in vivo may be a determinant of the differential expression of the gonadotropin subunit genes.
Fontan-Associated Protein-Losing Enteropathy and Plastic Bronchitis

Objective To characterize the medical history, disease progression, and treatment of current-era patients with the rare diseases Fontan-associated protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) and plastic bronchitis. Study design A novel survey that queried demographics, medical details, and treatment information was piloted and placed online via a Facebook portal, allowing social media to power the study. Participation regardless of PLE or plastic bronchitis diagnosis was allowed. Case control analyses compared patients with PLE and plastic bronchitis with uncomplicated control patients receiving the Fontan procedure. Results The survey was completed by 671 subjects, including 76 with PLE, 46 with plastic bronchitis, and 7 with both. Median PLE diagnosis was 2.5 years post-Fontan. Hospitalization for PLE occurred in 71% with 41% hospitalized ≥3 times. Therapy varied significantly. Patients with PLE more commonly had hypoplastic left ventricle (62% vs 44% control; OR 2.81, 95% CI 1.43-5.53), chylothorax (66% vs 41%; OR 2.96, CI 1.65-5.31), and cardiothoracic surgery in addition to staged palliation (17% vs 5%; OR 4.27, CI 1.63-11.20). Median plastic bronchitis diagnosis was 2 years post-Fontan. Hospitalization for plastic bronchitis occurred in 91% with 61% hospitalized ≥3 times. Therapy was very diverse. Patients with plastic bronchitis more commonly had chylothorax at any surgery (72% vs 51%; OR 2.47, CI 1.20-5.08) and seasonal allergies (52% vs 36%; OR 1.98, CI 1.01-3.89). Conclusions Patient-specific factors are associated with diagnoses of PLE or plastic bronchitis. Treatment strategies are diverse without clear patterns. These results provide a foundation upon which to design future therapeutic studies and identify a clear need for forming consensus approaches to treatment.
Oxidation of Ni-Cr-W Ternary Alloys

The oxidation behavior in air at 1000–1250°C of four Ni-Cr-W alloys containing sufficient chromium content (∼22 at. % Cr) for protective Cr2O3 formation in a binary Ni-Cr alloy is reported. Generally for alloys high in W (10 and 16 at.% W), the rejection of tungsten into the alloy beneath the scale introduced a steep Cr concentration gradient and slower Cr diffusion such that continuous precipitation of Cr2O3 internal oxides prevented the formation of a Cr2O3 protective scale. The alloy most dilute in W (1.6 at. % W) formed a protective scale at short times with little outer NiO scale, but scale fractures led to internal oxidation and rapid nonprotective kinetics. After an initially rapid oxidation increment to form NiO, the 3 at.% Walloy formed a protective Cr2O3 scale with about the same steady-state parabolic kinetics as a binary Ni-30Cr alloy. The effect of ternary Wadditions on the development of Cr2O3 scales on Ni-Cr-W alloys is considered as a ternary analog to Wagner's description of the oxidation of Cu-Pt or Cu-Pd alloys.
Tunable Diode Laser Spectroscopy Of Molecules In Solids And On Surfaces

Tunable diode lasers have made possible new techniques to study the vibrations of molecules in solids and on surfaces. We will focus on two of these: persistent nonphotochemical hole burning (NPHB) for the study of molecules in solids and electroreflectance vibrational spectroscopy (EVS) for the study of molecules on surfaces. We give an overview of both techniques. The system that we use for EVS measurements is described in detail. We also discuss the sources of diode laser intensity noise and the approach taken to measure EVS signals accurately over a wide frequency range.© (1983) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Long-term ethanol consumption impairs reverse cholesterol transport function of high-density lipoproteins by depleting high-density lipoprotein sphingomyelin both in rats and in humans

Moderate alcohol consumption has been linked to lower incidence of coronary artery disease due to increased plasma high-density lipoprotein (HDL), whereas heavy drinking has the opposite effect. Because of the crucial role of HDL in reverse cholesterol transport and positive correlation of HDL sphingomyelin (SM) content with cholesterol efflux, we have compared HDL SM content with its reverse cholesterol transport capacity both in rats fed ethanol on long-term basis and alcoholic individuals. In rats, SM HDL content was decreased in the ethanol group (−15.4%, P < .01) with a concomitant efflux decrease (−21.0%, P < .01) compared to that in controls. Similarly, HDL from the ethanol group, when compared with HDL from the control group, exhibited 13.8% (P < .05) less cholesterol uptake with control-group hepatocytes and 35.0% (P < .05) less cholesterol uptake with ethanol-group hepatocytes. Conversely, hepatocytes from the ethanol group, when compared with hepatocytes from the control group, exhibited 31.0% (P < .01) less cholesterol uptake with control-group HDL and 48.0% (P < .01) less with ethanol-group HDL. In humans, SM content in plasma HDL was also decreased in chronically alcoholic individuals without liver disease (−51.5%, P < .01) and in chronically alcoholic individuals with liver disease (−51.3%, P < .01), compared with nondrinkers. Concomitantly, in alcoholic individuals without liver disease, both efflux and uptake were decreased by 83.0% and 54.0% (P < .01), respectively, and in chronically alcoholic individuals with liver disease by 84.0% and 61.0% (P < .01), respectively, compared with nondrinkers. Based on these findings, we conclude that long-term ethanol consumption significantly impairs not only cholesterol efflux function of HDL by decreasing its SM content but also cholesterol uptake by affecting presumably hepatocyte receptors for HDL.
Documenting the Educational Content of Morning Report

Objectives: To document the educational content of a pediatric morning report and to determine if it represents a curriculum. Setting: A midwestern, tertiary care, pediatric training program. Design: A prospective, observational study was conducted of case presentations discussed during pediatric morning report from July 1995 through July 1996. Presented cases were analyzed for demographics, clinical venues where patients were encountered, case diagnoses, and ensuing discussion. Results: Morning report by study criteria was considered a curriculum. A wide variety of patient ages (aged from birth to 41 years) and all clinical venues were represented. A broad spectrum of diagnoses covered 30 of 31 Pediatrics Review and Education Program (American Academy of Pediatrics, Elk Grove Village, Ill) Content Specification headings and most (72%) of the Educational Objectives listed (N=977 [72%]). The most common topic areas were infectious diseases (n=137 [18.2%]), disorders of the blood/neoplasms (n=85 [11.2%]), neurological disorders (n=57 [7.5%]), genetics or dysmorphology (n=56 [7.4%]), and gastrointestinal tract disorders (n=44 [5.8%]). Top discussion categories were patient clinical presentation (n=399 [19.6%]), evaluation (n=375 [18.4%]), and management (n=377 [18.5%]). Conclusions: Morning report represents a curriculum in a pediatric residency training program. It can be used effectively to address nontraditional or rarely discussed topics that are important to the overall professional development of pediatric residents. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 1997;151:1151-1156
The behavior of acoustic neuroma in tissue culture.

A phase contrast and time-lapse cinematographic study of 50 acoustic nerve tumors cultured in Rose chambers and roller tubes, was made. In all cultures four main cell types were observed: 1. ameboid microglia-like cells; 2. slender spindle-shaped cells; 3. racketshaped cells, and 4. large kite-shaped cells. The spindle-shaped cells exhibited a rhythmic pulsatile activity and grouped themselves in a palisading fashion. The ameboid cells showed as fast writhing movement of their elongated, irregularly shaped cell body and a fast undulating movement of their membranous veil-like cytoplasmic extensions. These two cells were thought to be Schwann cells. The racket-shaped cells slowly but constantly changed shape. The origin of this cell was not determined. The kite-shaped cells were though to be fibroblasts. Although every culture showed all four cell types, one of them usually predominated over the other; in general however the fibroblastic cells tended to predominate in long-term cultures. No transformation of one cell type into the other was observed. A comparison between the types of cells grown in vitro from acoustic tumors and from normal peripheral nerve was made.
SU‐FF‐J‐43: Correlation Between External Abdominal and Internal Liver Fiducial Motion in 4D‐CT

Purpose: to determine how well the anterior‐posterior location of a marker, placed on a supine patient's abdominal surface, correlates with the location of a radio‐opaque fiducial implanted within the liver. We investigate which respiratory phases exhibit the best correlation between the marker and the fiducial. Methods and Materials: data was obtained from five patients, each having a fiducial (either an implanted gold pellet or the tip of a stent) in the liver. Each patient received a cine‐mode 4D‐CT scan of the liver, with the position of an external marker used to associate each cine CTimage with a specific respiratory phase. The trace of the anterior‐posterior motion of the marker was normalized under the assumption that, among ten phases of a full respiratory cycle (0%, 10%, 20% … 90%), the marker displacements correlated linearly with the fiducial's superior‐inferior displacements. Each cycle of the normalized marker trace was then superimposed upon a plot of the fiducial's displacement; the latter was measured within the 4D‐CT data set for each of the ten phases. Results: comparisons of the marker trace and the fiducial coordinate from 4D‐CT indicated that, in general, the marker motion correlated reasonably well with internal liver motion during the process of exhalation (from end‐inspiration to end‐expiration), with optimum correlation during end‐expiration (40% to 60% phase). The correlation tends to be poorer during inhalation, extending from 70% to 90% phase. Conclusions: a tight correlation near end‐expiration suggests that using an external‐motion‐based respiratory trace, as a guide for gated treatments for livercancer, should enable reliable and reproducible coverage of the target volume. Poorer correlation during inhalation suggests that the marker's anterior‐posterior motion may not adequately characterize the internal motion during those phases, and that gating should be avoided during this stage of the respiratory cycle.
Correlation of hepatic cytosolic androgen binding proteins with androgen induction of hepatic microsomal ethylmorphine N-demethylase in the rat☆

Abstract Previous reports have demonstrated the presence of moderate to high affinity binding for androgens in the cytosol of livers from male rats. This binding was significantly lower in female rats or in immature rats of either sex. The hepatic androgen binding protein, which sedimented at approx. 4 S on sucrose density gradients, has been called a receptor which mediates the actions of androgens in the liver. The experiments in the present study were designed to evaluate the hepatic androgen binding protein for characteristics which have been attributed to receptors in other tissues and to correlate the presence of androgen binding with androgen induction of hepatic drug metabolism. In the current studies, we have shown that cytosol from the livers of male rats bound [ 3 H]dihydrotestosterone ([ 3 H]DHT) and translocated this steroid ligand to the nucleus in a time and temperature dependent manner. Cytosol prelabeled with [ 3 H]DHT, when passed over a column of denatured DNA cellulose, eluted in three radioactive peaks. Two of these peaks were absent when cytosol from livers of female or hypophysectomized males was used. In addition, the presence of high concentrations of hepatic androgen binding correlated well with the ability of androgen to induce ethylmorphine N -demethylase, a marker of microsomal cytochrome P-450-dependent drug metabolism. Values for both parameters were higher in males than in either females or hypophysectomized males. Testosterone treatment induced both parameters in ovariectomized females and 17β-estradiol repressed both in males. However, testosterone treatment failed to induce hepatic androgen binding in hypophy-sectomized males and immature males, both of which are also unresponsive to androgen induction of drug metabolism. The results suggest that one or more hepatic cytosolic androgen binding proteins possess several characteristics associated with steroid receptors in reproductive tract tissue. Furthermore, this binding may be implicated as a mediator for the androgen induction of at least one component of hepatic drug metabolism.
The Antiestrogen Tamoxifen in the Treatment of Recurrent Benign Cystic Mesothelioma

Benign cystic mesothelioma is a tumor characteristically found in women during the reproductive years. These tumors are infrequently found after castration or menopause, suggesting some degree of hormonal sensitivity. Such aspects of the tumor suggest a potential role for antiestrogens as medical management and an alternative to radical surgery. We treated a 19-year-old woman with a symptomatic pelvic mass secondary to a recurrent benign cystic mesothelioma 2 years after radical surgery with the antiestrogen tamoxifen. An initial reduction in volume and arrest of growth was followed by stabilization in size and disappearance of symptoms. Therapy was continued for 18 months with no change in the volume of the cystic structure. The patient continued to be asymptomatic. Periodic surveillance with quantitative digital radiography for bone density showed no change in bone mineral density. Serum testing for liver function studies was normal throughout treatment. This case suggests that antiestrogens may have a role in the medical management of these rare estrogen-dependent neoplasms. The initial reduction in size and arrest in growth further suggest extreme sensitivity of this tumor to manipulation of the hormonal milieu. Therapy with the antiestrogen tamoxifen in this setting may provide an option for long-term medical management in cases of symptomatic recurrent cystic mesotheliomas.
Normal Indentation of Elastic Half-Space With a Rigid Frictionless Axisymmetric Punch

The contact of a simply connected axisymmetric punch with an elastic half-space is examined. The problem is mathematically formulated by using potential theory and complex variable analysis. The final solution of these equations is obtained by assuming a polynomial punch profile. The conditions for complete contact and incomplete contact are also derived. The solutions give the pressure profile at the punch?elastic half-space interface for any polynomial punch profile, even for noninteger power polynomials, as long as the contact region is simply connected. The results show that some classic solutions in linear elasticity are special cases of the derived solution and determine the range of validity for those solutions. ©2002 ASME
Plasma Colloid Osmotic Pressure in Trauma Patients: Direct Measurement Versus Indirect Estimates From Plasma Proteins and Solids

Abstract The aim of our study was to compare directly measured and calculated plasma colloid osmotic pressure (COP). COP was measured with a membrane colloid osmometer and was calculated using the equations of Landis and Pappenheimer by three methods: from albumin and globulin concentrations, from total protein concentrations, and from plasma solids measured with a refractometer. Eight volunteers (39 measurements) and 28 trauma patients (161 measurements) were studied. We found that COP calculated from albumin and globulin or total protein concentrations systematically underestimated measured COP. In contrast, COP calculated from plasma solids was in better agreement with measured COP. We conclude that calculated estimates of plasma COP may be erroneously low, partly because of therapeutically administered nonprotein colloids. Refractometry measures all plasma solids and is therefore better suited for the rapid assessment of COP. However, coefficients of correlation between measured and calculated COP for these data using published equations were r = .92 at best. In contrast, the new equation we defined allows COP to be calculated from plasma solids and the albumin to globulin ratio and shows a better correlation with measured COP (r = .96). For highest accuracy, a direct measurement is preferable.
Analysis of Photothermal Characterization of Layered Materials – Design of Optimal Experiments

In this paper numerical calculations are presented for the steady-periodic temperature in layered materials and functionally-graded materials to simulate photothermal methods for the measurement of thermal properties. No laboratory experiments were performed. The temperature is found from a new Green's function formulation which is particularly well-suited to machine calculation. The simulation method is verified by comparison with literature data for a layered material. The method is applied to a class of two-component functionally-graded materials, and results for temperature and sensitivity coefficients are presented. An optimality criterion, based on the sensitivity coefficients, is used for choosing what experimental conditions will be needed for photothermal measurements to determine the spatial distribution of thermal properties. This method for optimal experiment design is completely general and may be applied to any photothermal technique and to any material with spatial variation of thermal properties.
Anti-inflammatory effects of lipoxins on lipopolysaccharide-induced uveitis in rats.

Purpose: Lipoxins exert potent anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving actions by reducing polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) infiltration. This study describes the effect of lipoxin A4 and a stable analog on the resolution of ocular inflammation induced by intravitreal injection of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in rats. Methods: Six- to eight-week-old male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were injected intravitreally with 2.5 µL physiologically balanced solution (LPS) containing 5 ng LPS, or 5 ng LPS + 50 ng LXA4 or 5 ng LPS + 50 ng 15-epi-LXA4 analog. Rats were anesthetized with intraperitoneal injection of a ketamine and xylazine cocktail. At 24 h, the animals were again anesthetized and the eyes examined for clinical signs of inflammation. The animals were then euthanized by CO2 inhalation and aqueous humor was collected in heparinized saline. Aqueous humor PMNs were counted using an Improved Neubauer Hemocytometer, and the protein concentration was determined by standard procedure. After enucleation, the eyes were d...
Regeneration of rat submandibular gland following partial extirpation. A light and electron microscopic study.

A wedge of parenchymal tissue was excised from the left submandibular gland of six week old male Sprague-Dawley rats. The animals were randomly grouped by body weight and killed at intervals of one day to five weeks following the operation. Tissue from and adjacent to the site of injury was removed and prepared for routine light and electron microscopy. Light microscopic findings consisted of degeneration and necrosis of the parenchymal tissue during the first 24 hours, followed by hyperemia and endothelial as well as epithelial proliferation from one to three days. Extensive epithelial proliferation occurred during the next two weeks, followed by regeneration of new lobules, beginning at the periphery of the injured lobes. Ultrastructurally, the new parenchymal tissue appeared to have regenerated from residual duct cells. Dedifferentiated epithelial cells gave rise to two different cell lines: one line which transformed into terminal tubules and acinar cells, and another which became striated ducts. These differentiating cells were organizing into lobules as early as three weeks after the operation. Because of their proximity to cells of regenerating striated ducts as well as intercalated ducts and acini, the myoepithelial cells appeared to be of epithelial origin.
Racial, ethnic, and sex differences in the associations between violence and self-reported health among US high school students

BACKGROUND: Involvement in interpersonal violence or suicidal behaviors can have a significant impact on an adolescent's physical health. Similarly, previous research has suggested that lived experiences, more than the presence or absence of physical ailments, can significantly influence self-assessed health status among adolescents. The purpose of this study was to examine the cross-sectional associations between involvement in violence and poor or fair self-reported health among US high school students. METHODS: Data were obtained from the 2005 national Youth Risk Behavior Survey (n = 13,953). Logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the associations between violence-related measures and self-reported health while controlling for demographic characteristics and potential confounders. Analyses are presented for students overall and stratified by sex and race/ethnicity. RESULTS: Overall, 7.2% of students reported fair or poor self-rated health. Having been in a physical fight, having been injured in a physical fight, having attempted suicide, and having not gone to school because of safety concerns were significantly associated with fair or poor self-rated health after controlling for demographic characteristics and other potential confounders. Differences associated with race/ethnicity and sex are identified. CONCLUSIONS: Four of the 5 violence-related measures included in these analyses were significantly associated with fair or poor self-rated health. Future studies should consider the impact of involvement in violent behaviors and perceptions of both physical and mental well-being. Language: en