cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Background suppressed magnetization transfer MRI.

Purpose Up to 30% of the hydrogen atoms in brain tissue are part of molecules ("semisolids") other than water. In MRI, their magnetization is typically not observed directly, but can influence the water magnetization through magnetization transfer (MT). Comparison of MRI scans differentially sensitized to MT allows estimation of the semisolid fraction and potential changes with disease. Here, we present an approach designed to improve this estimate by measuring the size of the MT effect in a single scan. Methods A stimulated echo sequence was used to generate a spatial pattern in the longitudinal water magnetization, which was then given time to exchange with semisolids. After saturating the remaining water magnetization, reverse exchange was allowed to partly re-establish the original water magnetization pattern. The third excitation pulse then formed a stimulated echo out of this pattern. Results MT data were obtained on 10 human subjects at 7 T with varying exchange times. The images showed the expected time dependence of signal associated with the forward and reverse exchange processes. Excellent suppression of non-exchanging background signal was achieved. As expected, this suppression came at the price of a substantial reduction in exchange-related signal (by ~75% compared to the signal in saturation recovery MT), in part because of the reliance on a 2-step exchange process. Conclusion The results demonstrate an MT signal can be observed in a single acquisition without subtraction. This may be advantageous for MT measurements when signal instabilities related to motion and physiological variations exceed thermal noise sources.
Evidence for a kinetically controlled burying mechanism for growth of high viscosity secondary organic aerosol

Secondary organic aerosol (SOA) particles are ubiquitous in air and understanding the mechanism by which they grow is critical for predicting their effects on visibility and climate. The uptake of three organic nitrates into semi-solid SOA particles formed by α-pinene ozonolysis either with or without an OH scavenger was investigated. Four types of experiments are presented here. In Series A, uptake of the selected organic nitrates (2-ethylhexyl nitrate (2EHN); β-hydroxypropyl nitrate (HPN); β-hydroxyhexyl nitrate (HHN)) into impacted SOA particles was interrogated by attenuated total reflectance (ATR)-FTIR. In this case, equilibrium was reached and partition coefficients (KSOA = [–ONO2]SOA/[–ONO2]air) were measured to be K2EHN = (3.2–11) × 104, KHPN = (4.4–5.4) × 105, and KHHN = (4.9–9.0) × 106. In Series B, SOA particles were exposed on-the-fly to gas phase organic nitrates for comparison to Series A, and uptake of organic nitrates was quantified by HR-ToF-AMS analysis, which yielded similar results. In Series C (AMS) and D (ATR-FTIR), each organic nitrate was incorporated into the SOA as the particles formed and grew. The incorporation of the RONO2 was much larger in Series C and D (during growth), exceeding equilibrium values determined in Series A and B (after growth). This suggests that enhanced uptake of organic nitrates during SOA formation and growth is due to a kinetically controlled “burying” mechanism, rather than equilibrium partitioning. This has important implications for understanding SOA formation and growth under conditions where the particles are semi-solid, which is central to accurately predicting properties for such SOA.
Systematic Review of Criminal and Legal Involvement After Substance Use and Mental Health Treatment Among Veterans: Building Toward Needed Research:

Evidence indicates that substance use and mental health treatment is often associated with reduced criminal activity. The present systematic review examined this association among military veterans...
Pectoral Nerve (PECs) block for postoperative analgesia-a systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis.

Background and objective Pectoral Nerve (PECs) block is a fascial plane block first described by Blanco et al. for postoperative analgesia in breast surgery. The procedure is now widely used, and several small clinical trials have been published and reported favorably on the analgesic efficacy of PECs block. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we will summarize the current evidence on the efficacy of PECs block. Methods We identified and analyzed 19 randomized control trials from PubMed, Central, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science citation index, US clinical trials register and Google Scholar. The primary outcome was 24-hour opioid requirement, and secondary outcomes included pain scores, postoperative nausea and vomiting and other complications. Results Compared to systemic analgesia, PECs block was associated with reduced 24 hours opioid requirement [mean difference (MD) = -10.66 mg], lower pain score [9-12 hours postoperatively: MD = -1.18; 24 hours postoperatively: MD = -0.79] and less frequent PONV [risk ratio (RR) = 0.37, numbers needed to treat (NNT) = 5]. While the failure rate of PECs block was not well defined, several studies reported significant intraoperative opioid requirement despite PECs block. Lastly, trial sequential analysis indicated that no more clinical trials are needed to demonstrate the opioid sparing effect of PECs block. Conclusion When compared to general anesthesia with systemic opioids, PECs block was associated with significantly better perioperative pain control. There are currently insufficient data on the complication and failure rate of PECs block in clinical practice.
Plant promoters for transgene expression

Abstract Development of efficient gene transfer methods has revolutionized the ability to genetically engineer traits in crop plants. Understandably, gene expression will have to be tailored such that the intended activity is limited to specific target cells, tissue, organ or to a particular developmental stage. Likewise, any attempts to diminish or eliminate gene activity will also have to be targeted to specific locations. Additionally, the magnitude of such intervention will also have a bearing on the final outcome. Promoters offer a fundamental control in gene expression, and there is a great deal of interest in isolating and studying plant promoters. We provide an overview of the development in this relatively young area of plant biology.
A cross-sectional study of regions and conditions of Keshan disease in Harbin

Objective In order to accumulate data for the final evaluation and acceptance of the "Twelfth Five-Year Plan of National Endemic Disease Prevention and Control", we investigated the endemic scopes and basic situation of Keshan disease (KD) in Harbin. Methods According to the "Criteria for Diagnosis of Keshan Disease"(WS/T 210-2011), we conducted clinical survey of KD prevalence in 10 KD endemic counties in Harbin in 2013. 2011-2015, we detected and searched for cases in 10 ward counties of Keshan disease. According to the"Delimitation and Classification of Keshan Disease Areas" and the "Evaluation of Endemic Disease Control and Elimination", we determined the regional type, the situation of control and elimination of the disease, at the same time all KD patients were positioned by global positioning system (GPS). Results There were 2 KD endemic counties, 12 endemic townships, and 37 KD patients in Harbin. All 12 townships were the light endemic regions of KD. Other townships were conformed to be the history regions with KD. The management index scores of KD reached the elimination requirements which were more than 85 points in every region county (city). Ten region counties got to technical standards for KD elimination. Harbin basically reached the index of KD elimination. The GPS satellite positioning of KD patients were concentrated in the 45.1-45.5 degrees north latitude, and 127.7-128.3 degrees east longitude. Conclusion The regions of KD endemic areas have narrowed down and the prevalence rate has declined significantly in Harbin, which have reached the basic elimination standards of KD by the "12th Five-Year Plan". Key words: Keshan disease; Endemic areas; Disease conditions; Bottom number; Cross-sectional study
Active-site Molecular docking of Nigellidine with nucleocapsid- NSP2-MPro of COVID-19 and to human IL1R-IL6R and strong antioxidant role of Nigella-sativa in experimental rats.

The recent outbreak of SARS CoV-2 has changed the global scenario of human lives/economy. A significant number of the non-survivors showed cardiac-renal-vasculature dysfunction. A 'cytokine storm' namely, interleukin IL6-IL1 receptors i.e. IL6R-IL1R over-functioning was reported. Here, nigellidine, an indazole-alkaloid and key-component of Nigella Sativa L. (NS) commonly known as black-cumin-seed was analyzed for COVID-19 protein-targeting and IL1R-IL6R inhibition through molecular-docking-study and biochemical-study in experimental-rat to evaluate antioxidative-capacity. The NMR/X-ray-crystallographic/Electron-microscopic structures of COVID-19 Main-protease (6LU7)/Spike-glycoprotein(6vsb)/NSP2(QHD43415_2)/Nucleocapsid(QHD43423), Human IL1R(1itb)-IL6R(1pm9) from PDB were retrieved-analyzed for receptor-ligand interaction. Then those structures were docked with nigellidine using Autodock and Patchdock-server. A brief comparison was made with nigellicine-thymoquinone from N. sativa. Where nigellidine showed highest binding-energy of -6.6 (kcal/mol), ligand-efficiency of -0.3 with COVID19 Nsp2 forming bonds with amino acid CYS240 present in binding-pocket. Nigellidine showed strong interaction with main-protease (BE:-6.38/LE:-0.29). Nigellidine showed affinity to IL1R (-6.23). The NS treated rat showed marked decline in ALP-SGPT-SGOT-malondialdehyde(MDA) than the basal-levels. From the Western-blot and activity-analysis it was observed that Nigellidine (sulfuryl-group-drug) showed no impact on Phenol-catalyzing ASTIV and Steroid-catalyzing estrogen-sulfotransferase expressions and activities in liver-tissue and thus has no influence in sulfation-mediated adverse metabolic-processes. Conclusively, nigellidine has hepato-reno-protective/antioxidant-immunomodulatory/anti-inflammatory activities with inhibit-potentials of COVID-19 proteins. Further validation is necessary.
Identifying risk factors for missed compartment syndrome in patients with tibia shaft fractures: An analysis of the national trauma data bank.

Abstract Objectives Acute compartment syndrome (CS) is a common complication of tibia shaft fractures (TSFs), and occurs when the pressure inside a myofascial compartment rises and impairs tissue perfusion. If treatment is delayed due to a missed diagnosis, amputation or permanent loss of function can result. This study aims to determine the incidence, clinical associations, and risk factors for missed CS following surgical stabilization of tibia shaft fractures (TSFs) using data from the National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB). Methods NTDB data files from 2007 to 2016 were accessed to collect information on patients undergoing surgical fixation of TSFs. Patients with an Injury Severity Score (ISS) > 15 or inferred Gustilo-Anderson IIIB/IIIC fractures were excluded to create a more homogenous sample of lower-grade TSFs. Compartment syndrome that was originally missed leading to late intervention was the main outcome under investigation. Bivariate tests were used to assess the relationships between missed CS and the preoperative variables. If a variable and a complication had an association with a P ≤ 0.2, it was included in a multivariate logistic regression model. Results A total of 184,612 patients met our inclusion criteria, and 1,269 patients (0.76%) had a missed CS diagnosis. Bivariate analysis demonstrated that male gender had a significant positive association with a missed CS diagnosis, while older age had a significant negative association (odds ratio [OR] = 2.17, 0.99; P Conclusions Our research identified several significant risk factors for missed CS after TSF, as well as positive and negative associations. Male gender, age, and lifestyle choices such as alcohol use and smoking conferred increased risks. These variables may assist physicians in identifying at-risk patients who may benefit from increased monitoring, and potentially prevent the high morbidity associated with this condition.
Estimated Revenue of the Nonprofit Homeless Shelter "Industry" in the United States: Implications for a More Comprehensive Approach to Unmet Shelter Demand

This study merged data from the 2015 Housing Inventory Count, a list of temporary housing programs serving homeless persons nationally, and the Internal Revenue Service Form 990 tax filings for non...
An Experimental Test of the Lucas Asset Pricing Model

We implement a dynamic asset pricing experiment in the spirit of Lucas (1978) with storable assets and non-storable cash. In one treatment we impose diminishing marginal returns to cash to incentivize consumption-smoothing across periods, while in a second treatment there is no induced motive for trade. In the former case subjects smooth consumption, and assets trade at a discount relative to the risk-neutral fundamental price. This under-pricing is a departure from the “bubbles” observed in the experimental asset pricing experiments of Smith et al. (1988). In our second treatment with no induced motive for trade, assets trade at a premium relative to expected value and shareholdings are highly concentrated.
Research on Intelligent Power Management and Control Technology of Electric Vehicle Based on Edge Computing

With the development of smart grid, Internet of things devices are widely used in the field of power management and control. The diversity of IOT equipment types, characteristics and functions not only integrates detailed big data, but also challenges the real-time, compatibility and big data processing ability of system management and control. Among them, electric vehicle is a kind of electrical equipment with random power consumption and strong impact in the current power grid. This paper studies an embedded edge computing technology in the power Internet of things system, proposes an implementation scheme of edge computing based on vehicle terminal, and designs a vehicle terminal hardware platform with ArmCortex-A7 and EMMC as the computing core, which is based on Embedded Linux system and socket virtual machine. The technology develops an edge computing platform to meet the simultaneous operation of multiple data applications, processes the massive intelligent power consumption data of electric vehicles nearby, avoids the communication channel blockage caused by massive data transmission, and meets the special requirements of power Internet of things for rapid response and accurate execution. Experiments show that the proposed technology can not only provide safe and fast control mode, but also make the system have stronger power consumption information big data acquisition ability, and has advantages in low bandwidth and low delay applications.
Race, health, and socioeconomic disparities associated with malingering in psychiatric patients at an urban emergency department.

Abstract Objective To examine clinical and sociodemographic differences between psychiatric patients suspected of malingering and non-malingering controls in an urban emergency department (ED) setting. Methods We used retrospective chart review to compare 57 psychiatric patients suspected of malingering with 195 date-matched controls. We examined evidence used for malingering and documented secondary gains. Results The prevalence of malingering was 5.6–7.1%, with documented evidence consistent with DSM-V guidelines. Malingering patients were more likely to be male (p 45 years old (p = .002), Black (p = .049), unhoused (p Conclusions Results support adaptational models of malingering. Malingering patients are more likely to have sociodemographic vulnerabilities. A disproportionate number of malingering patients have unmet needs for psychiatric treatment and resources. The study provides further evidence for inequities that may be related to social and structural determinants of health.
Abstract PO-129: Targeting CCR1 reprograms tumor associated macrophages in pancreatic cancer

The tumor microenvironment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) includes abundant fibroblasts and infiltrating immune cells, the latter largely immunosuppressive. We previously showed that targeting regulatory T cell (Treg), a prevalent T cell population in pancreatic cancer, failed to relieve immunosuppression and led to accelerated tumor progression. We discovered that Treg depletion reprogrammed tumor associated fibroblasts and increased immunosuppressive myeloid cell recruitment, an effect that was partially mediated by CCLs/CCR1signaling. Thus, we sought to investigate the potential therapeutic effect of targeting CCR1 in pancreatic cancer. By single cell RNA sequencing, we found CCR1 to be mainly expressed by tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) and neutrophils (or granulocytes) in both human and mouse PDA. We then orthotopically transplanted syngeneic mouse pancreatic cancer cells in CCR1 knockout hosts, and observed reduced tumor growth which was rescued by CD8 T cell depletion. Histological analysis showed elevated Granzyme B expression in infiltrating T cells, as well as an increase in cleaved caspase 3 positive cancer cells in tumors implanted in Ccr1−/− mice. Through cytometry by time of flight (CyTOF) and co-immunofluorescence we also discovered that TAMs in tumors implanted in Ccr1−/− mice expressed less Arginase 1 and CD206 -both markers of immunosuppressive macrophages- compared to TAMs in wild type tumors. Thus, our data is consistent with the notion that tumor associated macrophages lacking CCR1 expression are less immunosuppressive, consequently allowing increased CD8 T cell-mediated anti-tumor immunity. We are currently exploring combination approaches targeting CCR1 in pancreatic cancer. Citation Format: Yaqing Zhang, Kristee L. Brown, Wei Yan, Zeribe C. Nwosu, Eileen K. Carpenter, Katelyn L. Donahue, Ashley Velez-Delgado, Sion Yang, Marina Pasca di Magliano. Targeting CCR1 reprograms tumor associated macrophages in pancreatic cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Special Conference on Pancreatic Cancer; 2021 Sep 29-30. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(22 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-129.
Dietary Fat Saturation Affects Apolipoprotein Gene Expression and High Density Lipoprotein Size Distribution in Golden Syrian Hamsters

Our purpose was to elucidate the mechanisms whereby diets high in polyunsaturated fat lower plasma triglycerides and HDL cholesterol concentrations compared with diets high in saturated fat. Twenty-four male Golden Syrian hamsters (F1B strain) were fed semipurified diets containing 0.2 g cholesterol + 15 g fat/100 g diet enriched (13 g/100 g) in either coconut oil or soybean oil for 18 wk. Consumption of the soybean oil diet was associated with significantly (P < 0.001) lower mean concentrations of HDL cholesterol (28%), triglycerides (51%) and free fatty acids (51%), as well as a significantly lower proportion of large HDL particles. No effect on plasma cholesteryl ester transfer protein or lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase activities or hepatic or intestinal apolipoprotein (apo) A-I, A-IV or E mRNA levels were noted. The soybean oil-fed group had significantly lower levels of mRNA (P < 0.05) for hepatic apo A-II (23%) and apo C-III (18%) and significantly higher levels of mRNA for intestinal apo C-II (23%). Our data are consistent with the hypothesis that diets high in polyunsaturated fatty acids lower triglyceride concentrations in hamsters by decreasing apo C-III gene expression and by increasing apo C-II gene expression. In addition, reduced expression of apo A-II in animals fed the soybean oil diet may contribute to the lower HDL cholesterol concentration and larger proportion of small HDL particles noted.
A General Method for Geometric Feature Matching and Model Extraction

Popular algorithms for feature matching and model extraction fall into two broad categories: generate-and-test and Hough transform variations. However, both methods suffer from problems in practical implementations. Generate-and-test methods are sensitive to noise in the data. They often fail when the generated model fit is poor due to error in the data used to generate the model position. Hough transform variations are less sensitive to noise, but implementations for complex problems suffer from large time and space requirements and from the detection of false positives. This paper describes a general method for solving problems where a model is extracted from, or fit to, data that draws benefits from both generate-and-test methods and those based on the Hough transform, yielding a method superior to both. An important component of the method is the subdivision of the problem into many subproblems. This allows efficient generate-and-test techniques to be used, including the use of randomization to limit the number of subproblems that must be examined. Each subproblem is solved using pose space analysis techniques similar to the Hough transform, which lowers the sensitivity of the method to noise. This strategy is easy to implement and results in practical algorithms that are efficient and robust. We describe case studies of the application of this method to object recognition, geometric primitive extraction, robust regression, and motion segmentation.
Synthesis and maturation of phage P22 DNA : I. Identification of intermediates

Abstract Two intermediates in the synthesis and maturation of phage P22 DNA have been identified by sedimentation of lysozyme-detergent lysates of induced lysogens or infected cells through sucrose density-gradients. Intermediate I contains most of the radioactivity incorporated during a short pulse of [3H]thymidine; it sediments at a rate in excess of 1000 s. If a short pulse of [3H]thymidine is chased with unlabeled thymidine, labeled DNA appears in intermediate II, which has a sedimentation rate 1.2 to 1.7 times that of mature phage DNA in both neutral and alkaline sucrose gradients. 32P-labeled parental phage DNA appears first in intermediate I and later in intermediate II. The transfer of labeled DNA from intermediate I into intermediate II appears to be a late phage function; progeny phage heads contain DNA apparently derived from the intermediates. It is suggested that intermediate I represents the replicating phage DNA specifically attached to some other constituent of the induced or infected cell, and that intermediate II contains polynucleotide chains longer than those of the mature phage DNA.
AIDS knowledge and beliefs related to blood donation in US adults: results from a national telephone survey.

BACKGROUND: Misperceptions about the risk of contracting AIDS from donating blood may be preventing people from donating, while incorrect beliefs about AIDS screening tests or the appropriateness of donating with risk factors may place the blood supply at increased risk. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Questions about AIDS transmission and testing and the acceptability of test seeking and donating with risk factors were asked in the National Community Health Survey, a telephone survey of 9859 US adults. Results were weighted to represent the US population. Demographic and donor status (current, lapsed, never) differences in knowledge and attitudes were examined using chi-square and logistic regression. RESULTS: Nearly 25% of respondents thought it was somewhat or very likely that they could get AIDS from donating blood. Almost 80% knew that all blood donations are tested for AIDS, but only 65.5% knew about the test window period. A total of 33.5% felt that it was acceptable to use the blood center for AIDS testing, while 9.1% believed that it was okay for someone to donate even if they had AIDS risk behaviors; all had significant demographic and donor status differences. CONCLUSIONS: While there are many factors that prevent people from giving blood, the incorrect belief that it is possible to contract AIDS from donating is likely a barrier to donation. If blood centers dispelled this myth among those who have never donated, especially among minorities, it could be important for recruitment. In addition, our findings indicate that changes to education or recruitment could be needed to discourage test seeking and donations from risky donors.
Direct gas-phase interaction of aryldiazoacetates and dirhodium catalysts

Interaction of two dirhodium catalysts [Rh2(O2CR)4] (R = CMe3 and CF3) with methyl-p-methoxyphenyldiazoacetate in the gas phase has resulted in the partial or complete loss of dinitrogen from diazo substrate and afforded two new hybrid products that are of interest for the further development of catalytic processes.
Pharmacokinetic drug interactions of vinca alkaloids: Summary of case reports

Involvement of the cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A subfamily in the metabolism of vincristine is well established. However, information is limited regarding vincristine's drug interaction profile. All the substrates and inhibitors of CYP3A4 such as the azole antifungals (itraconazole, ketoconazole), cyclosporine, isoniazid, and nifedipine have very high propensity to interfere with vincristine metabolism. The proposed mechanism is most likely attributed to either inhibition of 3A4 enzymes or blockade of P-glycoprotein pumps. These interactions are clinically significant and can lead to severe vincristine toxicity if not detected. Although case reports discussed here exclusively involve vincristine, it is important to assume that all vinca alkaloids interact in the same manner until proved otherwise, because they share similar metabolism pathways.
An episode of steep geomagnetic inclination 120,000 years ago.

The mean inclinations of three sections of 120,000-year-old fine-grained sediments from northern California range from 62° to 66°. These inclinations are significantly steeper than the inclination of the geocentric axial dipole at this site. Because these sediments have probably recorded an actual episode of steep inclination lasting several thousand years, they provide new insights into the significance of mean inclinations shallower than the geocentric axial dipole. Such inclinations are characteristic of fine-grained sediments younger than 35,000 years. The results raise questions about the time-averaged geomagnetic field and about the determination of plate motions from paleomagnetic data.
Periodic Solutions of Functional Differential Equations with Infinite Delay

On considere un systeme d'equations differentielles fonctionnelles general x'(t)=f(t,x t ) ou x t (s)=x(t+s) pour −∞ 0 et tout (t,φ)
Posterior ‘Superior Mesenteric Artery First’ Approach for Resection of Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer

Background En bloc resection of the superior mesenteric vein (SMV), portal vein (PV), and/or splenic vein (SV) with concomitant venous reconstruction is required in 11–65 % of cases of locally advanced pancreatic cancer.1 Early retropancreatic dissection of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) from behind the pancreatic head utilizing an ‘artery first’ approach has been reported to be an efficient and safe approach to pancreaticoduodenectomy when SMA involvement is suspected.2 Additionally, this technique has been shown to reduce blood loss and result in shorter PV clamp times.3 While there are multiple variations to ‘artery first’ resection,4 this video will illustrate the critical steps of using the ‘posterior approach’ in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer. This approach has the benefit of early identification of a replaced right hepatic artery, but may be difficult in obese patients or those with extensive peripancreatic inflammation. These difficulties may be overcome by utilizing an ‘inferior supracolic (anterior) approach’, but this necessitates early division of the pancreatic neck and stomach.5
Studies on the mechanism of action of micrococcal nuclease II. Degradation of ribonucleic acid from tobacco mosaic virus

Abstract A two-dimensional procedure employing paper electrophoresis and paper chromatography was used for the analysis of micrococcal nuclease digests of RNA from tobacco mosaic virus. The course of enzymic hydrolysis was thus followed by the quantitative comparison of the 4 mono- and 31 major oligonucleotides found in partial and exhaustive digests. The results indicate that the enzyme preferentially hydrolyzes bonds next to adenylic or uridylic acid, and is especially effective in attacking those regions of an RNA molecule in which several adenylic acid and/or uridylic acid residues are found in sequence.
Optimal dosing of intravenous tacrolimus following pediatric heart transplantation.

Abstract Background: Early experience with intravenous tacrolimus at high doses (0.1–0.15 mg/kg/day) was associated with frequent clinical toxicity. The optimal dosing regimen after pediatric heart transplantation is unknown. Methods We retrospectively reviewed data on the last 45 pediatric heart transplant recipients to document the time required to achieve therapeutic blood levels and the safety of 2 differing intravenous dosing regimens (tacrolimus 0.03 & 0.05 mg/kg/day as continuous IV infusion). Target plasma levels were (1.2–1.7 ng/ml) with levels >2.0 ng/ml considered toxic, and target whole blood levels were 15–20 ng/ml with levels >25 ng/ml considered toxic. Results Mean age at transplantation was 7.5 ± 5.6 years (0.1–18), and 14 were infants. Intravenous tacrolimus was commenced at a mean of 7 ± 3 hours (range 2–16) after arrival in the ICU. Eight patients were excluded from analysis because of protocol modifications. Of the remaining 37 pts, 9 received initial infusion at 0.03 mg/kg/day; 3 (33%) achieved ‘therapeutic’ levels within 48 hours and 1 patient had a toxic level (27 ng/ml) at 36 hours. Twenty-eight patients received 0.05 mg/kg/day; 18 (64%) achieved therapeutic levels within 48 hours and 9 (32%) developed toxic levels. Patients with toxic whole blood levels had higher tacrolimus levels on first blood assay compared to those who did not develop toxicity (16.4 ± 3.4 vs 9.3 ± 3.9, p 10 ng/ml on first assay in 7/7 toxic patients vs 7/19 without toxicity, p = .004). Patients receiving the higher dose regimen had fewer episodes of moderate or severe rejection (≥Grade 3A) at first biopsy than those receiving the lower dose infusion (32% vs 75%; p = .046). No patient required renal dialysis. Conclusions Dosing below 0.05 mg/kg/day may result in clinically important delay in achieving therapeutic levels. Toxicity may be reduced by frequent monitoring of levels for the first 48 hours after transplantation especially when the initial level is >10 ng/ml.
Effects of pharmacological interventions on emetine cardiotoxicity in isolated perfused rat hearts.

Abstract The cardiotoxicity of emetine continues to be a significant clinical problem. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of several mechanistic interventions, including ICRF-187, an iron-chelating agent which protects against doxorubicin toxicity, atropine, and fructose-1,6-bisphosphate (FBP) on the toxicity of emetine in our isolated, perfused rat heart model. The model includes functional, electrocardiographic, and biochemical determinations in the same preparation. Atropine and ICRF-187 had no effect on the time needed for emetine to induce ventricular asystole, while FBP significantly increased this time. Administration of 47 μM atropine, 300 μM FBP, or 1 mM FBP decreased the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) into the coronary effluent, while ICRF-187 had no effect. These pharmacological interventions variably changed the amplitude of the biphasic response of the coronary flow to emetine. Finally, FBP was very effective in slowing the rate of QRS-waveform degeneration in the perfused hearts. Emetine caused PR- and QRS-prolongation which was not altered by FBP.
Baseline PSA as a predictor of prostate cancer-specific mortality over the past 2 decades: Duke University experience.

BACKGROUND: A diagnosis of prostate cancer is not often predictive of death from prostate cancer because of competing causes of mortality. Identification of the risk of death from prostate cancer and death from all causes using information available at the time of baseline prostate-specific antigen (PSA) measurement appears to be particularly pertinent. METHODS: The Duke Prostate Center database was used to identify men who had their PSA level measured over the past 20 years. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess whether baseline PSA, race, and age at baseline PSA could predict death from prostate cancer and death from all causes after baseline PSA measurement. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was performed to analyze the accuracy of baseline PSA as a continuous variable in predicting death from prostate cancer. RESULTS: A total of 4568 men diagnosed with prostate cancer after baseline PSA measurement were included. On multivariate analysis, baseline PSA levels of 4.0 to 9.9 ng/mL and � 10 ng/mL were associated with significantly higher rates of death from prostate cancer compared with PSA levels <2.5 ng/mL. An advanced age at baseline PSA and African American race were associated with a higher death rate from prostate cancer and death from all causes. The area under the ROC curve for baseline PSA predicting death was 0.839. When a baseline PSA of 10 ng/mL was chosen to predict death from prostate cancer, the corresponding sensitivity and specificity were 77% and of 78%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Baseline PSA appears to be a reliable and independent predictor of death from prostate cancer. A baseline PSA of � 4 ng/mL has been associated with higher risk of death from prostate cancer. Cancer 2010;116:4711–7. V C 2010 American Cancer Society.
Sample Depth Profiling By PAS/Step-Scanning Interferometry: Consideration Of Mirror Positioning Errors

Although step-scanning interferometers were developed concurrently with rapid-scanning interferomters, the latter dominates the commercial market. However, recently there has been a resurgence of interest in step-scanning interferometers as demonstrated by the recent publications 1,2 and the introduction of a commercial system by Bruker with a step-scanning option. Using a step-scanning interferometer is particularly advantageous when photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) is being performed. PAS has the ability to depth-profile a sample. This can be accomplished by varying the modulation frequency of the impinging radiation, which varies the penetration depth (more properly known as the thermal diffusion length, μs) by the equation:5 μs = (k/ πρCf)0.5 where k is the thermal conductivity, ρ is the density of the sample, C is the specific heat of the sample, and f is the modulation frequency of the radiation. In a rapid-scanning Michelson interferomter, the modulation frequency is equal to 2Vv Hz,6 where V is the optical velocity and v is the wavenumber. Since V is a constant, the modulation frequency is proportional to the wavenumber of the incident radiation. Thus, the penetration depth will vary across a spectrum. A step-scanning interferometer alleviates this limitation. Radiation modulation in a step-scanning interferometer is accomplished by either an external chopper (amplitude modulation) or by vibrating an interferometer mirror (phase modulation) and thus all of the radiation is modulation at the same frequency. Thus, penetration depth is uniform across a spectrum. The ability of the step-scanning interferometer/PAS combination to depth profile is demonstrated in this work. No consideration has ever been given to the effect of mirror positioning inaccuracies on the signal-to-noise ratio in PAS measurements. The interferogram is collected by stopping the moving mirror once every laser wavelength at the mid-points of the laser interference record. By analogy to a rapid scanning interferometer, these are known as the Laser Zero Crossings (LZC). The maximum signal-to-noise ratio allowed for by a positional error t is given by:3 SNR = (4/Ai5max) where 'max is the maximum spectral wavenumber. Positioning inaccuracies can be from the failure of the mirror to be moved between equally spaced intervals of retardation or from the effect of mirror drift once at these sampling points. The instrument used in the present study utilizes a mechanical drive that was observed to drift more than 10 nm from the desired retardation position over a period of a few seconds. To correct for this drift a piezoelectric transducer (PZT) was mounted between the drive and mirror; this is discussed more fully and the ability of the PZT to maintain the mirror position is demonstrated.
Experimental Determination of the Heat of Hydrogenation of Phenylcyclobutadiene

The heat of hydrogenation of phenylcyclobutadiene (ΔH°hyd = 57.4 ± 4.9 kcal mol-1) was determined via a thermodynamic cycle by carrying out gas-phase measurements on 1-phenylcyclobuten-3-yl cation. This leads to an antiaromatic destabilization energy of 27 ± 5 kcal mol-1, a difference of 9.6 ± 4.9 kcal mol-1 for the first and second C−H bond dissociation energies of 1-phenylcyclobutene, and an estimate of 96 ± 5 kcal mol-1 for the heat of formation of cyclobutadiene. These results are compared to G3, G3(MP2), and B3LYP computations and represent the first experimental measurements of the energy of a monocyclic cyclobutadiene.
Span of Apprehension Deficits in Schizophrenia and Mania

Reduced perceptual span has been suggested to be a cognitive marker of vulnerability to schizophrenia. However, the specificity of this impairment in visual information processing to schizophrenia is not well established. This preliminary study examined perceptual span in schizophrenic and manic patients divided into subgroups with and without active symptomatology. Symptomatic patients had reduced span in comparison with less symptomatic groups, but there were no differences between schizophrenic and manic patients.
A track count for estimating mountain lion Felis concolor californica population trend

Abstract Reliable estimates of status and population trend are critical for conservation of large terrestrial carnivores, but are usually lacking due to the high costs of sampling across large geographic areas. For detecting population trends of mountain lion Felis concolor californica, we evaluated counts of track sets on 48 randomly chosen quadrats in California. Each quadrat contained 33.8 km of transect on dusty, dirt roads, which were chosen by local wildlife biologists. A count of track sets by one person on all quadrats was more efficient than recording presence/absence by local survey teams. We estimated an efficient sample size of 44 quadrats in California after applying our data to a general formula for contagious distributions. This sample size can be reduced substantially by choosing new transect locations based on associations of tracks with topography and habitat. Tracks were most likely found on roads along 1st- and 2nd-order streams, on mountain slopes and knolls/peaks and in oak woodland and montane hardwood conifer forest. A changing mountain lion population can be detected with an inexpensive, periodic track survey and self-stratifying, non-parametric tests. Each track survey across California can be finished in 30 days. The many mountain lions and the variety of environmental conditions included at this extraordinarily large spatial scale permit estimates of: (1) trends among population strata in quadrats that are clustered according to typical number and age/sex class of track sets; (2) population size and demography after individuals are identified by their tracks, and after linear density on roads is calibrated from spatial density at intensive study, sites: and (3) spatio-temporal associations with bobcat Felis rufus, black bear Ursus americanus, coyote Canis latrans, and fox Vulpes vulpes and Urocyon cinereoargenteus.
Effects of Total Dose Ionizing, Radiation on the 1802 Microprocessor

Several versions of the 1802 CMOS microprocessor were subjected to Co-60 irradiations. Total dose data is provided for production line parts from two vendors, a specially processed radiation hard lot, and one developmental SOS unit. The increase in total dose failure level from 1 x 104 to 5 x 105 rads(Si) for the specially processed Parts proves the feasibility of hardening the Si-gate LSI technology used for the 1802.
Intensity of parental punishments and problem-solving attitudes and behaviors

This study examined the relationship between the intensity of parental punishment procedures and problem-solving attitudes and behaviors of mothers of young children in day care. A sample of 40 mothers (12 Mexican American, 15 white, and 13 black) were administered the Intensity of Parental Punishment Survey, the Problem-solving Inventory, and the Rational Behavior Inventory. The Parental Punishment Survey was scored for the External scale, with high scores indicating greater intensity of actual punishment. The Problem-solving Inventory and Rational Behavior Inventory were scored so high scores indicate successful problem-solving attitudes and behaviors, and rational beliefs. Analysis of variance of survey scores and racial/ethnic status, income, marital and employment statuses yielded no significant differences. When problem-solving scores of the 14 mothers with the highest and lowest scores on the punishment survey were compared by t test, mothers in the high intensity of punishment group had significan...
Adolescent Mothers of Handicapped Children: A Challenge for Interventionists.

As programs serving families with at-risk and handicapped children become more family-focused in their approach, they must consider the unique needs of different groups of parents. This paper discusses adolescent parents and the provision of services to families with young parents and children with special needs. Stages of adolescence, parenting behaviors, and issues of support are presented as examples from research and clinical literature that have implication both for family needs and the provision of services to these families. It is emphasized that a family focus for individually determined priorities is an appropriate model and that case management skills are probably needed to serve these families best.
Adrenalectomy: Effects on mating behavior, ovulation, and early gestation in the cycling rat*1

Abstract Adrenalectomy was performed 4 weeks prior to evaluating the effects on mating behavior, ovulation, and the first 10 days of gestation in 4-day cycling female rats. Mating behavior was essentially normal and occurred at times similar to sham-adrenalectomized animals on the afternoon of predicted proestrus. The number of ova ovulated was significantly reduced in mated adrenalectomized subjects in contrast to data reported by Rodgers (1971) for intact females mated at similar times in proestrus. Embryonic swellings were significantly fewer at day 10 of gestation than in the sham-adrenalectomized group providing additional evidence of reduced numbers of ova ovulated. Embryonic weights at day 10 of gestation were not affected by adrenalectomy. Removal of adrenocortical hormones significantly increased uterine weight on the morning of vaginal estrus. The data fail to show a significant delay in sexual receptivity as a result of removing adrenal progesterone, but suggest that adrenalectomy interferes with the neuroendocrine reflex mediating ovulation.
Expanding the research scope for internet enabled neighborhood communication platforms

The value of an Internet Enabled Neighborhood Communication Platform (IENCP) is typically framed in research as a tool to increase the stock of social capital in a neighborhood. However, these studies are narrowly focused on the outcomes of the technology and provide little detail regarding the activity of expertise sharing and information behavior on such platforms. By limiting the focus to the outcomes, we risk fetishizing the technology and losing site of their socio-technical characteristics. The need to expand the research scope to understand the expertise sharing and information behavior on such platforms is greater than ever in the face of growing numbers of IENCP's across the world. If continued research on IENCP is to contribute to their design and management, a greater level of detail on how users share information on such platforms as well as where the platforms fit into users information seeking habits is required.
A role for metabolism in photoreceptor electrogenesis

Abstract The light-induced receptor response (Fast PIII), measured intraretinally with microelectrodes placed across the photoreceptor cell layer of the isolated, superfused rat retina, was generated and maintained in calcium-free medium in the absence of a normal sodium gradient provided that a substrate was available and the active sodium-potassium transport system was not inhibited. In the absence of exogenous substrate or in the presence of ouabain the amplitude of Fast III depended upon the sodium concentration gradient. In calcium-rich (2 m m ) medium the generation of Fast PIII always depended upon the presence of a normal sodium concentration gradient. These results are discussed in terms of energy dependent processes involving sodium-calcium and sodium-potassium exchange mechanisms.
Laparoscopic vs. Open Biliopancreatic Diversion With Duodenal Switch: A Comparative Study

Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD-DS) is a well-known emerging open procedure that appears to be as effective as other bariatric operations and has been shown to provide excellent long-term weight loss. Therefore we looked at the safety and efficacy of the laparoscopic BPD-DS procedure compared to open BPD-DS in superobese patients (body mass index >60). A retrospective study of 54 superobese patients (body mass index >60) was carried out from July 1999 to June 2001: laparoscopic BPD-DS in 26 patients and open BPD-DS in 28 patients. Median preoperative body weight was 189.8 kg (range 155.1 to 271.2 kg) in the laparoscopic BPD-DS group and 196.5 kg (range 160.3 to 298.9 kg) in the open BPD-DS group. Median body mass index was 66.9 kg/m(2) in the laparoscopic group and 68.9 kg/m(2) in the open group. The two groups were compared by means of the unpaired t test, which yielded the following results: Major morbidity occurred in six patients (23%) in the laparoscopic BPD-DS group and in five patients (17%) in the open BPD-DS group (P = 0.63). There were two deaths in the laparoscopic BPD-DS group (7.6% mortality) and one death (3.5% mortality) in the open BPD-DS group (P = 0.51). Preoperative comorbidity was improved in eight patients in the laparoscopic BPD-DS group and two patients in the open BPD-DS group (P < 0.02). Laparoscopic BPD-DS is a technically feasible procedure that results in effective weight loss similar to the open procedure. However, both open and laparoscopic BPD-DS procedures are associated with appreciable morbidity and mortality in the superobese population. Additional studies are needed to determine the best surgical treatment for superobesity.
Prediction of the Operating Limits of Revolving Helically Grooved Heat Pipes

The performance of a helically grooved revolving heat pipe has been examined for various working temperatures, adverse tilt angles, and rotational speeds
Infrared quarter-wave reflection retarders designed with high-spatial-frequency dielectric surface-relief gratings on a gold substrate at oblique incidence.

One- and two-dimensional high-spatial-frequency dielectric surface-relief gratings on a Au substrate are used to design a high-reflectance quarter-wave retarder at 70° angle of incidence and 10.6-μm light wavelength. The equivalent homogeneous anisotropic layer model is used. It is shown that equal and high reflectances (>98.5%) for the p and the s polarizations and quarter-wave retardation can be achieved with two-dimensional ZnS surface-relief gratings. Sensitivities to changes of incidence angle, light wavelength, grating filling factor, and grating layer thickness are considered.