cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Endoscopic Endonasal Versus Transoral Odontoidectomy for Non-Neoplastic Craniovertebral Junction Disease: A Case Series.

BACKGROUND Odontoidectomy is a challenging yet effective operation for decompression of non-neoplastic craniovertebral junction disease. Though both the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) and the transoral approach (TOA) have been discussed in the literature, there remain few direct comparisons between the techniques. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the perioperative outcomes of EEA vs TOA odontoidectomy. METHODS A retrospective review of all cases undergoing odontoidectomy by either the EEA or TOA was performed. Attention was paid to the need for prolonged nutritional support, prolonged respiratory support, and hospitalization times. RESULTS During the study period between 2000 and 2018, 25 patients underwent odontoid process resection (18 TOA and 7 EEA). The most common indication for surgery was basilar invagination. Hospital length of stay, intensive care unit length of stay, and intubation days were all significantly shorter in the EEA group compared to the TOA group (P < .01, P = .01, P < .01, respectively). Prolonged nutritional support in the form of a gastrostomy tube was required in 5 patients and tracheostomy was required in 4 patients; all of these underwent odontoidectomy by the TOA. There was no statistical difference in neurological outcomes between the EEA and TOA groups (P = .17). CONCLUSION Odontoidectomy can be performed safely through both the EEA and TOA. The results of this study suggest the EEA has shorter hospitalizations and a lower probability of requiring prolonged nutritional support. These advantages are likely the results of decreased oropharyngeal mucosa disruption as compared to the TOA.
“You Can Get Away with Anything Here… No Justice at All”— Sexual Violence Against U.S. Indigenous Females and Its Consequences

Sexual violence against Indigenous women has long been used as a tool of colonial violence and conquest. As a contemporary form of historical oppression that may drive associated health and mental health inequities, Indigenous women in the United States experience sexual violence at greater levels than the general population and at and twice the rate of Indigenous men. We use the Indigenous framework of historical oppression, resilience, and transcendence (FHORT) to understand Indigenous women’s experiences of sexual violence and how it differentiates across ecological outcomes related to health and wellness. This exploratory sequential multimethod study with 563 participants (n = 436 qualitative and n = 127 quantitative survey participants) qualitatively explores how Indigenous peoples describe sexual violence and quantitatively investigates key differences across ecological outcomes of wellness related to sexual violence, including alcohol use and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Results indicated that all participants (100 percent) who reported sexual violence were women. Thematic analysis of qualitative results revealed the themes related to familial, non-familial, and the historical oppression of a lack of accountability for perpetrators. Quantitative t-Tests results revealed that experiencing sexual violence was associated with significant differences across ecological dimensions of wellness including (a) structural: higher historical oppression, historical loss, oppression, and discrimination; (b) relational: higher adverse childhood experiences and stressful life events and lower family resilience and social support; (c) spiritual: lower spiritual-well-being and life satisfaction; and (d) psychological/behavioral: higher levels of alcohol use, PTSD, and lower levels of psychological resilience. Thus, sexual violence profoundly affected Indigenous women.
On the Interrelationship Between Fiber Fracture and Ply Cracking in Graphite/Epoxy Laminates

The present work examines in a systematic way the development of microdamage in several laminates of graphite/epoxy material subjected to both quasi-static tensile loading and tension-tension fatigue. Emphasis is placed upon discriminating and quantifying matrix and fiber microdamage. Penetrant-enhanced standard- and stereo X-ray radiography were used along with edge replication to follow the progression of matrix damage. The recently developed technique of laminate deply was used to map the development of fiber fracture. The most significant result, confirmed in both the quasi-static and fatigue tests, was the dominant role played by off-axis ply cracks in the fracture of fibers in adjacent load-bearing plies. By direct observation of fiber fractures in situ, it was established in both cases that fiber fractures do not occur in a random pattern at elevated loads/cycles, but instead occur in narrow bands adjacent to off-axis ply cracks. It is the action of these crack tips upon adjacent fibers which may govern the wearout or overload of laminates under these conditions. By direct accounting of fiber fractures in deplied laminae taken from damaged but unfailed laminates, the relationship between the density of fiber fractures and the number of cycles at one cyclic stress level is reported. The relationship between fiber fracture density and quasi-static stress level is reported as well. For the quasi-statically loaded specimens, efforts to characterize and discriminate between fiber fracture and transverse ply cracking on the basis of acoustic emission (AE) amplitude distribution are described. Correlations between attributes of the AE amplitude distribution and the established damage extent and chronology are reported. Common assumptions regarding the contributions of these distinct damage modes to acoustic emission from laminates under tensile loading are discussed in terms of the present evidence. Finally, in comparing damage resulting from quasi-static tension loading of cross-ply laminates with that observed in tension-tension cyclic loading of laminates of similar graphite/epoxy material, microdamage modes unique to fatigue are identified and discussed.
In vivo anti-cancer activity and pharmacokinetics of pyranocoumarin compounds from Korean herb Angelica gigas

3285 Oriental herbs provide a rich source of natural remedies and anti-cancer agents. Recently, we have identified the major pyranocoumarin compounds decursin and decursinol angelate (DA) from Korean Angelica gigas Nakai (AGN) as members of a novel class of anti-androgen compounds in vitro with important implication for prostate cancer prevention and treatment ( Cancer Res , 2006, Mol Cancer Therap , 2007). In vitro studies by us and other laboratories have shown that decursin and DA also inhibit the growth and survival of leukemia, prostate and breast cancer cells. Structure-activity studies revealed little activity for the pyranocoumarin core decursinol for in vitro growth inhibition. The in vivo anti-cancer activity of AGN extract and the pyranocoumarin compounds have yet to be studied. The objectives of the present work are to answer the following questions: 1. Does AGN ethanol extract given by i.p. injection exert in vivo cancer growth inhibitory activity? 2. Does oral delivery of AGN extract lead to comparable in vivo efficacy? 3. What are the pharmacokinetic characteristics of decursin and DA in vivo ? 4. Do decursin and decursinol exert in vivo anti-cancer activity? To this end, we used bioassays with human prostate cancer xenograft or mouse Lewis lung cancer (LLC) models to evaluate the in vivo efficacy of AGN extract as well as decursin and decursinol. The results show that AGN extract exerted significant in vivo inhibitory activity against human PC-3 androgen-independent prostate cancer xenograft growth (100 mg/kg) and mouse LLC model (30 mg/kg) by i.p. injection delivery. AGN extract given orally was as effective as by i.p. injection against human DU145 prostate cancer xenograft growth in athymic nude mice. Pharmacokinetic study showed that decursin and DA were not detectable in the blood even within 5 minutes of i.p. injection; instead, the de-esterified product decursinol rose sharply and peaked within 30 minutes of i.p. injection and subsequently declined with t 1/2 ~1.5 h. These data suggest that decursin and DA were rapidly converted into decursinol before or upon entry into the blood circulation, probably through an “esterase” to hydrolyze the ester bond between their respective side chain and decursinol. Nevertheless, decursinol (50 mg/kg) exerted equivalent in vivo anti-cancer activity against LLC growth when compared with same dosage of decursin, even though they did not fully account for the in vivo activity of AGN. These results suggest that additional compounds contribute to the in vivo anti-cancer efficacy of AGN extract and that more active decursinol metabolites may be generated to mediate anti-cancer activities. (Support: Prostate Cancer Foundation; Hormel Foundation; Korean Biogreen21 Project grant and a Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare grant and Interdisciplinary Research & SRC program of KOSEF).
Case-Based Reasoning with Confidence

A case-based reasoning system can produce both a solution and an estimate of the confidence in that solution. The confidence value can be used to determine whether the solution does or does not have the needed accuracy. A statistical method can be used to compute a confidence value from information generated during the case-based reasoning process. This confidence value allows users to know when the results of the system should and should not be used.
Membrane Bound Desaturases and Hydroxylases: Structure Function Studies

The motif: H X (3 or 4) H X (25–31) H X (2 or 3) HH X (137–179) H X (2 or 3) HH is found in all membrane bound desaturases and in alkane hydroxylase, but is absent from almost all other proteins in GenBank. The eight conserved Histidines are all catalytically essential in the rat Δ9 desaturase because individual conversion of any of these to Alanines prevents it from complementation of the phenotype of a yeast Δ9 desaturase mutant. Topological analysis suggests both desaturases and hydroxylases have a common organization in which the Histidines are within soluble domains on the cytoplasmic face of the membrane. One possible function for these Histidines would be to coordinate the iron atoms in the active site. Our Mossbauer spectroscopy of the alkane hydroxylase from Pseudomonas oleovorans suggests that the iron-containing active site is a diiron-oxo cluster with Mossbauer similar parameters to those of the soluble chloroplast Δ9 desaturase.
Epitaxial lift-off for wafer-scale GaAs-on-Si semi-monolithic integration

Summary form only given. We have developed a manufacturable epitaxial lift-off process to integrate a 2" GaAs epi-layer containing active photonic devices onto a much larger 5" processed Si VLSI wafer. The availability of this ELO hetero-integration process will be extremely valuable in high-performance and reliable optoelectronic integrated systems.
A Switch to Release the Motor

Most organelle transport ceases when cells begin mitosis. But how is this accomplished? As Cheney and Rodriguez explain in their Perspective, cell cycle-dependent phosphorylation of myosin-V--a motor protein that moves organelles along actin filaments--results in release of myosin-V from the organelle and cessation of actin-based organelle transport ( Karcher et al .).
The Intergenerational Entrepreneurship Demonstration Project

(1993). The Intergenerational Entrepreneurship Demonstration Project. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance: Vol. 64, No. 8, pp. 48-50.
Cardiac output versus pacing rate at rest and with exercise in dogs with AV block.

To achieve maximum benefit from exercise (rate)-responsive pacing in subjects with sinus node dysfunction and AV block, it is necessary to determine the pacing rate (HR) which produces maximum cardiac output (CO) under specified exercise conditions. However, the CO-HR relationship for exercise has not been systematically investigated. To permit determination of the optimum HR, CO was measured at rest and with exercise for different pacing rates. Seven dogs with complete AV block and permanently implanted ventricular pacemakers were exercised on a treadmill for 5 min at each of four pacing rates (55, 76, 101, 116/min) and at two constant exercise levels (225 and 560 kg.m/min). CO was determined by impedance cardiography during the resting state preceding exercise and during a brief period (10-20 s) immediately after exercise, and was expressed as a percent of the CO determined at rest with HR = 55/min. A three-phase pattern of CO versus HR appears to exist for exercise as for rest. For exercise, starting from a low HR, CO increases markedly; a "plateau" is reached during which moderate increase in CO is achieved by increasing HR. At very rapid pacing rates, CO may actually decrease with further increase in HR. The results of this study suggest that a subject-specific optimum HR exists for each constant exercise level. Moreover, the methodology employed in the study is applicable to the identification of optimum HR for any exercise (rate)-responsive pacemaker.
OPTIMIZATION OF A RADIATION-COOLED THERMIONIC CONVERTER

The electrical power output of a radiation-cooled thermionic converter with a fixed radiator area is maximized with respect to the anode work function and to the ratio of cathode area to radiator area. The results show that, at high cathode temperature, it is important to cool the anode at the expense of power-generating area, whereas at low cathode temperature, the reverse is true. In addition, the results show that, at high cathode temperature, the optimum anode work function and temperature are equal to about 75% of the corresponding cathode work function and temperature. (auth)
Luteinising hormone-releasing hormone analogue reverses the cell adhesion profile of EGFR overexpressing DU-145 human prostate carcinoma subline

Cetrorelix, a luteinising hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analogue, has been shown to limit growth of the human androgen-independent prostate cell line DU-145, although other inhibitory actions may also be affected. Both growth and invasion of DU-145 cells are linked to autocrine epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signalling. Invasiveness requires not only cells to migrate to conduits, but also reduced adhesiveness between tumour cells to enable separation from the tumour mass. Thus, we investigated whether Cetrorelix alters the DU-145 cell–cell adhesion and if this occurs via altered EGFR signalling. Pharmacologic levels of Cetrorelix limited the invasiveness of a highly invasive DU-145 subline overexpressing full-length EGFR (DU-145 WT). Extended exposure of the cells to Cetrorelix resulted in increased levels of the cell–cell adhesion complex molecules E-cadherin, α- and β-catenin, and p120. Puromycin blocked the increases in E-cadherin and β-catenin levels, suggesting that de novo protein synthesis is required. The Cetrorelix effect appears to occur via transmodulation of EGFR by a protein kinase C (PKC)-dependent mechanism, as there were no changes in DU-145 cells expressing EGFR engineered to negate the PKC transattenuation site (DU-145 A654); downregulation of EGFR signalling produced a similar upregulation in adhesion complex proteins, further suggesting a role for autocrine signalling. Cetrorelix increased the cell–cell adhesiveness of DU-145 WT cells to an extent similar to that seen when autocrine EGFR signalling is blocked; as expected, DU-145 A654 cell–cell adhesion also was unaffected by Cetrorelix. The increased adhesiveness is expected as the adhesion complex molecules moved to the cells' periphery. These data offer direct insight into the possible crosstalk pathways between the LHRH and EGFR receptor signalling. The ability of Cetrorelix to downregulate EGFR signalling and subsequently reverse the antiadhesiveness found in metastatic prostate cancer highlights a novel potential target for therapeutic strategies.
A RANDOMISED CONTROLLED TRIAL OF HOSPICE CARE

Terminally ill cancer patients at a Veterans Administration hospital were randomly assigned to receive hospice or conventional care. The hospice care was provided both in a special inpatient unit and at home. 137 hospice patients and 110 control patients and their familial care givers (FCGs) were followed until the patient's death. No significant differences were noted between the patient groups in measures of pain, symptoms, activities of daily living, or affect. Hospice patients expressed more satisfaction with the care they received; and hospice patients' FCGs showed somewhat more satisfaction and less anxiety than did those of controls. Hospice care was not associated with a reduced use of hospital inpatient days or therapeutic procedures and was at least as expensive as conventional care.
Foveolar Choroidal Circulation and Choroidal Neovascularization in Age-Related Macular Degeneration

The development of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) often leads to a significant decrease in visual function. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain the pathogenesis of CNV, and they include, among others, the presence of senescence changes in the RPE–Bruch’s membrane–photoreceptor complex, the accumulation of oxidative damage, and the development of ischemia of the outer retina. The purpose of our study was to investigate whether abnormalities of the foveolar choroidal circulation are associated with the development of CNV in AMD. Throughout the body, angiogenesis is often triggered by ischemia and hypoxia.1,2 Similarly, several ocular diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy, neovascular glaucoma, and vein occlusions, are associated with ocular ischemia and the development of neovascularization. A similar mechanism may also play a role in the development of CNV in AMD. Previous cross-sectional studies of patients with AMD performed in our laboratory3,4 have suggested that foveolar choroidal blood flow is decreased in patients with dry AMD and that eyes with more severe AMD features have lower foveolar choroidal blood flow, giving some support to the ischemia theory. We report the results of a prospective study in a cohort of patients with AMD at risk of development of CNV. Our purpose was to investigate in a longitudinal fashion whether foveolar choroidal blood flow decreases before the development of CNV and whether changes in blood flow precede the formation of CNV.
Cation separations in electrodialysis through membranes coated with polyelectrolyte multilayers

Abstract This paper examines K + /Mg 2+ selectivities and cation fluxes in diffusion dialysis and electrodialysis through membranes coated with poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (PSS)/protonated poly(allylamine) (PAH) multilayer films. In both dialysis techniques, K + /Mg 2+ selectivities reach values >100, and with (PSS/PAH) 5 -coated nanofiltration membranes the K + flux in electrodialysis is 45-times the flux in diffusion dialysis. Thus, the applied electric current can increase flux without decreasing selectivity. However, the K + transference number is at most ∼0.35 because protons and anions also carry current. Ion fluxes and K + /Mg 2+ selectivities depend on the anion of the K + /Mg 2+ salts. Sulfate decreases the surface charge on (PSS/PAH) 5 -coated membranes and reduces K + /Mg 2+ selectivities to ∼40 in both diffusion dialysis and electrodialysis through films on porous alumina. Chlorine generated during electrodialysis with chloride salts damages (PSS/PAH) 5 -coated membranes, and selectivities decline dramatically after 60 min. Future work should examine selectivities among more valuable ions and methods for increasing stability and the transference numbers for the ions of interest.
An accountability model for initial teacher education

The pressure for accountability in higher education is extremely high. Some advocate accountability systems that use standardised measures of student learning and non‐cognitive outcomes; others argue that locally developed measures provide a better fit with the unique mission of institutions. We first describe a general ‘proof of possibility’ accountability model for initial teacher education that relies upon locally developed, programme‐specific assessments. We then illustrate how such a model may respond to claims made by an institution, demonstrate student learning, and inform programmatic changes.
725-5 Improved Outcome in Patients with Prior Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty and an Evolving Myocardial Infarction

Despite the increasing prevalence of PTCA, the outcome of patients with prior PTCA who present with an MI and are treated with thrombolytic therapy is unknown. We compared the outcome of the 1647 patients in GUSTO who had undergone a prior PTCA with the 39,150 patients who had not undergone a prior PTCA. Patients with a prior PTCA had a higher incidence of previous MI (67 vs 14%) and CABG (19 vs 4%), lower ejection fraction (50 vs 52%), less anterior MI (34 vs 39%), and lower systolic bp (127.6 vs 129.1). In addition, their mean age was lower (60.4 vs 61.2 yrs), and time to treatment was shorter (2.9 vs 3.1 hrs). Outcomes were: Prior PTCA No Prior PTCA P-value 24 hr mortality (%) 1.8 2.7 0.03 30 day mortality (%) 56 7.0 0.04 CHF (%) 14.3 16.3 0.02 Re-infarction (%) 4.6 4.0 NS Ischemia (%) 24.0 19.8 l0.0001 CABG (%) 12.2 8.5 l0.00001 PTCA (%) 56.2 32.1 l0.00001 Conclusion Patients with prior PTCA had a lower 24-hr and 30-day mortality and less CHF compared with patients without prior PTCA. Although they experienced more recurrent ischemia, no increase in re-infarction was observed. The protective effect of prior PTCA may be due to reactive changes in the treated coronary segment and is associated with a more frequent revascularization.
A simple and efficient method for measuring the uptake of radiolabelled compounds by leukocytes in whole blood.

Abstract A liquid scintillation counting procedure is described for measuring the uptake of radiolabelled compounds by leukocytes in large or small volumes of whole blood. Color and chemical quenching as well as other technical difficulties noted previously by investigators attempting to process whole blood were eliminated by selectively disrupting the erythrocytes. This was readily accomplished by washing the blood with 3% acetic acid. After bleaching the leukocyte pellet with hydrogen peroxide, the sample was prepared for counting using methods in which the cells were dissolved or oxidized. Examples demonstrating the utility of the proposed technique are presented in which DNA, RNA and protein synthesis of leukocytes from patients with uncontrolled leukemia were measured by the uptake of tritiated thymidine, uridine and leucine, respectively. Also noted is the feasibility of employing a multiple automated sample harvester and whole blood microcultures. The advantages realized by these methods and their potential clinical and experimental utility are discussed.
A conformational change in the catalytic core of the hammerhead ribozyme upon cleavage of an RNA substrate.

Heteronuclear multidimensional NMR structural studies have been performed on a hammerhead ribozyme complexed with a cleaved and an uncleaved substrate. The NMR data demonstrate that the three helic...
Understanding why people do not give: strategic funding concerns for AIDS‐related nonprofits

In this increasingly competitive environment for the individual donor's time and money, it is especially important for AIDS-related nonprofits to understand why people choose not to give. Voluntary donations to organizations serving persons with HIV/AIDS could be negatively influenced by the social stigma that continues to be associated with the disease. Using the empathy-altruism hypothesis from social psychology, the impact of gender, homosexuality, promiscuity, and drug use on donor cognitive situational empathy, emotional situational empathy, and altruism is examined. The findings have significant implications for nonprofits. Understanding the impact of these behaviors on giving is a first step in gauging the magnitude of challenges that AIDS-related nonprofits may face in fund-raising activities. Additionally, this information should be invaluable in the development of educational and/or promotional strategies to increase private sector support. Finally, initiatives in communication and marketing strategy are discussed to improve fund-raising efforts. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
THREE-, FOUR-, AND FIVE-COORDINATE CYCLIC PHOSPHITES, PHOSPHONATES, AND PHOSPHONIUM SALTS CONTAINING SULFURYL GROUP

Abstract Reaction of the sulfuryl diphenol O2S[(t-BU)MeC6H2OH]2 (10) with phosphorus trihalides in the presence of amines yielded the phosphites O2S[(t-Bu)MeC6H2O]2PR where R = Cl for 1 and R = Br for 2. Treatment of 1 with 2,6-dimethylphenol in a halide displacement reaction gave 3 (R = OXyl). In a similar diol reaction with O2S[Me2C6H2OH]2 (11), the hydrogenphosphonate O2S[Me2C6H2O]2P(O)H (5) formed. A related hydrogenphosphonate O2S[(t-Bu)MeC6H2O]2P(O)H (4) was obtained by hydrolysis of either 1 or 2. The phosphonium bromide salt O2S[(t-BU)MeC6H2O]2PPhBr+Br− (7) formed from the bromination of the phenylphosphonite derivative O2S[(t-Bu)MeC6H2O]2PPh (9), the hydrolysis of which yielded the phosphonate O2S[(t-Bu)MeC6H2O]2P(O)Ph (6). A related phosphonium bromide O2S[(t-Bu)MeC6H2O]2PBr2 +Br− (8) was prepared by the reaction of the diphenol 10 with PBr3 in the presence of N-bromodiisopropylamine. All of the cyclic phosphorus derivatives 1–8 were characterized by x-ray studies and NMR measurements. All of th...
Oxaliplatin with weekly bolus fluorouracil and low-dose leucovorin as first-line therapy for patients with colorectal cancer.

Purpose: To determine the activity of biweekly oxaliplatin, combined with weekly bolus fluorouracil (FU) and low-dose leucovorin (LV) chemotherapy (bFOL), as first-line therapy for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Patients and Methods: Patients with measurable metastatic colorectal cancer; no previous therapy for advanced disease (adjuvant therapy allowed if >6 months since completion); and performance status 0, 1, or 2 were eligible and were treated with oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2 days 1 and 15 plus LV 20 mg/m2 over 10 to 20 minutes, followed by a 500 mg/m2 bolus dose of FU on days 1, 8, and 15 every 28 days. Patients underwent response evaluation by computed tomographic scan every 2 months. Results: Forty-two patients were entered, and 41 patients were treated, including 20 men and 22 women, nine with previous adjuvant chemotherapy and four with radiation therapy. Three patients achieved complete response, and 23 patients achieved partial response, for a response rate of 63% (95% CI, 49% to 78%). M...
Concurrent multi-scale analysis of elastic composites by a multi-level computational model

Abstract In this paper, an adaptive multi-level computational model is developed to comprehensively address issues of discretization and physically based modeling error in structures consisting of heterogeneous micro-structures. The model consists of three essential levels, (i) a purely macroscopic domain (level-0) with homogenized material parameters; (ii) a macro–micro domain (level-1) with the micro-domain represented by the periodic repetition of a representative volume element (RVE) and (iii) purely microscopic domain (level-2) where the RVE ceases to exist and extended micro-structural regions need to be modeled. All micro-structural computations of arbitrary heterogeneous domains are conducted using the adaptive Voronoi cell finite element model. An intermediate layer is used between the macroscopic and microscopic regions for smooth transition. The level-1 domain is utilized to estimate criteria for switching from macroscopic to microscopic calculations. Physically based error indicators are developed for transition from macroscopic to microscopic domain. Statistical functions are used to assess the extent of the RVE domains for non-uniform micro-structures. For the macroscopic domains, h - and hp -adaptations are executed using conventional error indicators based on the energy norm. The numerical simulations are compared with results from pure micro-mechanics and other multi-level models in the literature. The model is also tested for a realistic problem with macroscopic stress risers.
Corticosteroids of peripheral blood.

THE presence of adrenal steroids in peripheral blood has been established by bio-assay (Vogt, 1943; Paschkis et al., 1950) and by chemical determination (Hemphill and Reiss, 1947; Corcoran and Page, 1948; Wick, Hillyard and MacKay, 1951; Nelson, Samuels, Willardson and Tyler, 1951). Adrenal venous blood of the dog contains 17-hydroxycorticosterone in sufficient concentrations to enable isolation and identification (Reich, Nelson, Zaffaroni, 1950). The small amounts of corticosteroid in peripheral blood have discouraged attempts at characterization.3 However, extracorporeal dialysis by the artificial kidney (Kolff, 1947) and peritoneal lavage (Grollman, Turner and McLean, 1951) techniques have enabled us to obtain, in a partially purified state, a fraction of the total corticosteroids from a relatively large volume of peripheral blood. Paper chromatography of extracts of these dialysates has permitted partial characterization of certain known corticosteroids. EXPERIMENTAL As part of another study, two male...
Infection Control Guidelines for CPR Providers

A number of guidelines have been published for health care workers based in hospitals, laboratories, and clinics to help prevent transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV). 1-4 The important position statement from the Emergency Cardiac Care Committee of the American Heart Association (AHA) 5 in this issue ofThe Journal, however, specifically focuses on providers of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This group includes not only health care workers but also fire service personnel, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, law enforcement personnel, and laypersons. The AHA position statement supplements guidelines previously published by the Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, Ga, 6 and the National Association of Emergency Medical Services Physicians. 7 The position statement reveals that the AHA views the current epidemic of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome as a public health problem rather than a political, ethical, or moral one. The sections entitled "Guidelines for Rescuers With Known or
The unconscious as paradox: Impact on the epistemological stance of the art psychotherapist ☆

Abstract The Unconscious, by definition, is unconscious …. Consequently, how do art therapists know that something pertaining to the realm of the unconscious is manifesting itself in a session? Pondering the implications of using a psychoanalytic framework in art therapy while advocating for the validity of such an approach within the contemporary practice of art therapy, this paper proposes a reflection on constituents of the epistemological stance of the psychoanalytically oriented art therapist. By re-visiting Bion's notion of learning through experience (1962) under a postmodernist view of counter-transference, the article demonstrates how the aesthetic experience of the art psychotherapist may lead to meaningful understanding and knowledge about patients and images. Viewing the effect of the image as a presentation event that is beyond its representational content shows how the visual image in art therapy is a particularly apt locus for the transmission and reception of infra-verbal and infra-representational forms of communication. To that end contemporary views of projective identification as a primitive, non-verbal and effective way of communication are reviewed. A case vignette further serves to illustrate how art therapists may have access to a form of visual thinking which is instrumental in acquiring knowledge about unconscious psychic transmissions occurring between patient, image and art therapist.
The grouping of stars: An application to professional sports

Abstract This paper uses a two-period model to analyze competition for high-quality labor in a professional sports market. Leagues vertically differentiate their products by competing for the services of a small number of stars, thereby endogenizing the cost of product quality. If utility is linear or convex in the number of stars, one league successfully employs all of them. This grouping of stars results in an equilibrium market structure of either a monopoly or a duopoly, depending on the opportunity costs of players and the number of consumers. Market efficiency of the resulting equilibrium is then discussed.
Influence of vegetation cover and crust type on wind-blown sediment in a semi-arid climate

Abstract This study determined the influence differing soil surface textures and vegetative covers have on the magnitude of wind erosion in a semi-arid environment. The study was conducted from March 2000 through late April 2000 on the Jornada Experimental Range approximately 37 km north of Las Cruces, New Mexico. Big Spring Number Eight (BSNE) samplers placed at nine locations, collected particulates in suspension and saltation at heights of 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 cm from the following surfaces: loose sand, thick silty physical crust, flaky physical crust, weak desert pavement, and a forb/grass ground cover. BSNE samplers collected the largest amounts of sediment were collected in areas of loose sand and at sites directly downwind from loose sand than sites containing heavy crusting, gravel, or a forb/grass cover. Differences between sites with gravel surfaces and those with forb/grass cover were insignificant. These results quantify the importance of surface cover as an agent towards reducing the extent of wind erosion on semi-arid landscapes.
Percutaneous Pulmonary Artery Gene Transfer Using Naked Plasmid DNA • 120

There are no published reports of successful percutaneous in vivo gene delivery to the pulmonary vascular bed without the use of adjunctive agents. The purpose of our study was to demonstrate the feasibility of recombinant reporter gene transfer to the pulmonary artery of pigs using naked plasmid DNA delivered via percutaneous catheter techniques involving angioplasty. Varying quantities of naked plasmid DNA containing the E. coli lacZ gene in a eukaryotic expression vector were used to transfect pigs that were 10kg to 20kg in weight. One technique for delivery of reporter gene to the pulmonary artery involved pressing plasmid DNA into the vessel wall during angioplasty using a standard angioplasty balloon which was coated with a solution of DNA mixed with heparin. The other delivery technique involved infusing DNA between an angioplasty balloon and a second, surrounding, perforated balloon. We allowed three days for gene expression and then harvested the pulmonary arteries. RNA from the pulmonary arteries was reverse transcribed, and cDNA was amplified by polymerase chain reaction using primers specific for lacZ. Foreign protein expression was evaluated with immunohistochemistry using a polyclonal antibody to β-galactosidase. Successful transcription and translation were determined for both delivery techniques in the treated but not contralateral pulmonary arteries. We conclude that pulmonary artery gene transfer using naked plasmid DNA delivered via percutaneous angioplasty techniques is feasible. The use of naked plasmid DNA removes the potential for toxicity associated with an adjunctive agent such as liposome or adenovirus. Additionally, ours is the first report of gene delivery to the pulmonary vascular bed using angioplasty. The development of this technique provides a novel method for the study of pulmonary vascular biology in vivo and establishes the feasibility of gene insertion into the pulmonary arteries.
Drug treatment process indicators for probationers and prediction of recidivism

Research has shown that substance abuse treatment is associated with reduced criminal activity as well as reduced drug use. An increasingly important aspect of treatment evaluation, however, is understanding more about the therapeutic process involved. Based on a sample of 279 probationers assigned to residential treatment for drug use problems, the purpose of this study is to examine several elements of treatment process and how they influence recidivism. Rearrest rate during a 2-year follow-up study period was 36%, and survival analysis showed it was directly related to poorer during-treatment ratings by probationers of self-esteem, counselor competence, and peer support from others in the treatment program. These were better predictor measures than background and demographic characteristics generally used in other studies, suggesting the role of therapeutic engagement in the recovery process.
Amyloid precursor protein gene disruption attenuates degeneration of substantia nigra compacta neurons following axotomy.

Abstract Our past work has shown that the C-terminal fragment of amyloid precursor protein (APP) translocated to the nucleus in neurons destined for delayed excitotoxic degeneration. To test whether nuclear APP fragments also play a role in the progressive loss of dopaminergic (DA) substantia nigra compacta (SNc) neurons, we performed unilateral medial forebrain bundle (MFB) transection on APP wild type (WT) and on mice with disruption of the APP gene (KO). In WT mice immunoreactivity for APP C-terminal, β-amyloid and Alz90 epitopes appeared in the nuclei of axotomized DA neurons at 3 days post-lesion (dpl), persisted at 7 dpl and was absent in 14 dpl mice. APP N-terminal immunoreactivity was restricted to the cytosol at all time points, precluding the possibility of full length APP in the nucleus. Nuclear localization of APP epitopes was absent in neurons of the contralateral SNc or in neurons of the ipsilateral ventral tegmental area and SN reticulata. The presence of APP C-terminal and Alz90 domains was confirmed by Western blotting performed on the nuclear fraction of the SN ipsilateral to the axotomy. Quantitative morphometric analysis revealed that WT mice demonstrated earlier and more profound loss of tyrosine hydroxylase+SNc neurons than did KO mice. These data showed that a novel nuclear C-terminal fragment appeared coincident with SNc neuron degeneration, and that APP deficiency correlated with significant neuroprotection in vivo.
Regulation of neurotensin secretion in a mammalian C cell line: effect of dexamethasone.

Abstract We established in culture two colony clones of rMTC 44-2 cells, rMTC 44-2B and 44-2C which secrete substantially greater quantities of neurotensin (NT) than the parent cell line. We describe here the effects of the synthetic glucocorticoid, dexamethasone, on NT and cAMP release. Medium and intracellular levels of NT and cAMP were measured by specific RIAs. Long-term release experiments were performed in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium supplemented with 15% horse serum (DMEM). Short-term release experiments were performed in Krebs-Ringer-bicarbonate-glucose buffer (KRBG) supplemented with 1.0 mm Ca 2+ . Dexamethasone stimulated NT release and increased intracellular NT levels. The ED 50 values for stimulation of NT release following 24 or 48 h incubation of cells in DMEM with dexamethasone were 5 · 10 −9 and 7 · 10 −9 M, respectively. Dexamethasone markedly enhanced intracellular levels of NT in rMTC 44-2 cells while it decreased cell growth. Cells pretreated with dexamethasone for 48 h released greater amounts of NT in response to Ca 2+ (1.0 mM) with or without K + (50 mM) or NE (10 −6 M) following a 10 min incubation with these substances in KRBG. This experimental paradigm was also used to measure the efflux of cAMP following a brief (10 min) exposure of cells to NE. We conclude that the rMTC 44-2B and 44-2C cells are useful tools for studying the effects of dexamethasone on the regulation of cell growth, as well as the secretion of NT and cAMP.
The inheritance of the split stigma character in diploidSolanum species

The mode of inheritance was determined for the ‘split stigma’ characteristic that was frequently found among the aneuploid plants produced from interspecific triploid × diploid crosses. This character was unrelated to the aneuploid nature of these plants. It occurred as a result of genes that are prevalent in the diploidSolanum species,S. berthaultii. The proposed genetic hypothesis calls for the mutant characteristic to be expressed when the genes at one or both of two independent loci are in a homozygous recessive state.
Comparisons of WRF/Chem simulated O3 concentrations in Mexico City with ground-based RAMA measurements during the MILAGRO period

This work compares the WRF/Chem (Weather Research and Forecasting – Chemistry) simulated O3 concentrations in the Mexico City Metropolitan Area (MCMA) with measurements from the ground-based RAMA network during the MILAGRO (Megacity Initiative: Local and Global Research Observations) period. The model resolves the observations reasonably well in terms of diurnal cycle and mean magnitude as reflected by high correlation coefficients and low root-mean-square errors. Stations located in the center of the MCMA generally exhibit higher correlation coefficients and lower model biases than those stations located in the peripheral of the MCMA. Large temporal variations in the observed and simulated O3 concentrations are noted from station to station during the MILAGRO period. Sensitivity analyses of O3 concentrations to changes in NOx and VOC emissions rates suggest that O3 production in the MCMA is VOC-sensitive, and VOC-emissions reduction appears to be an effective strategy for reducing high surface O3 concentrations in the MCMA.
Influence diagnostics for fractional principal components estimators in regression

Fractional Principal Components (FPC) is a large class of estimators that include, among others, least squares (LS), ridge and generalized ridge, principal components, fractional rank, and Stein estimators (see Hocking, et. al 1976). The object of this paper is to analyze the influence of single observations and propose diagnostics for this class of estimators. Approximate deletion formulas are obtained and their agreement with the "true" influence analyzed. These diagnostics are illustrated using two examples.
Laser beam profile measurement by photothermal deflection technique

Laser beam profiles are measured using the photothermal deflection technique in an absorbing gas. The method is based on the change of the index of refraction due to laser-radiation heating. (AIP)
Sublimation of Cr2O3 at High Temperatures

The sublimation of chromic oxide, Cr2O3, has been observed in vacuum by the Langmuir technique using induction and solar heating. Extensive sublimation did not yield any new phases on the basis of X-ray powder studies, and condensates of Cr2O3 were always obtained. Flash vaporization and flow experiments in CO or O2 atmospheres and in vacuum indicated no appreciable differences in rates of sublimation. Weight-loss experiments showed that the rate of sublimation was slightly higher than predicted for decomposition to the elements and suggested that small amounts of complex molecules, e.g. CrO and CrO2, were also present in the equilibrium vapor.
Ascorbate regulation and its neuroprotective role in the brain

Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) occurs physiologically as the ascorbate anion: a water-soluble antioxidant that is found throughout the body. However, despite the high, homeostatically regulated levels of brain ascorbate, its specific functions in the CNS are only beginning to be elucidated. Certainly, it acts as part of the intracellular antioxidant network, and as such is normally neuroprotective. There is also evidence that it acts as a neuromodulator. A possibly unique role it might have is as an antioxidant in the brain extracellular microenvironment, where its concentration is modulated by glutamate-ascorbate heteroexchange at glutamate uptake sites. Ongoing studies of ascorbate and glutamate transporters should lead to rapid progress in understanding ascorbate regulation and function.
Nuclear Data Sheets for A = 25

Abstract This evaluation of A = 25 has been updated from previous evaluations published in 1998En04, 1990En08, and 1978En02. Coverage includes properties of adopted levels and γ rays, decay-scheme data (energies, intensities and placement of radiations), and cross reference entries. The following tables continue the tradition of showing the systematic relationships between levels in A = 23. These assignments are based on spectroscopic factors and energy differences where Δ E x = E x ( Al 25 ) – E x ( Mg 25 ) .
Comment on “Auditory-nerve first-spike latency and auditory absolute threshold: A computer model” [J. Acoust. Soc. Am.119, 406–417 (2006)]

A recent paper by Meddis [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 119, 406–417 (2006)] shows that an existing model of the auditory nerve [Meddis and O’Mard, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 117, 3787–3798 (2005)] is consistent with experimentally-measured first-spike latencies in the auditory nerve [Heil and Neubauer, J. Neurosci. 21, 7404–7415 (2001)]. The paper states that this consistency emerges because in the model, the calcium concentration inside the inner hair cell builds up over long periods of time (up to at least 200ms) during tone presentation. It further states that integration over long time-scales happens despite the very short time constants (<1ms) used for the calcium dynamics. This letter demonstrates that these statements are incorrect. It is shown by simulation that calcium concentration inside the hair cell stage of the Meddis model rapidly reaches a steady state within a few milliseconds of a stimulus onset, exactly as expected from the short time-constant in the simple first-order differential equation used to mod...
Distributed workflow-driven analysis of large-scale biological data using biokepler

Next-generation DNA sequencing machines are generating a very large amount of sequence data with applications in many scientific challenges, placing unprecedented demands on traditional single-processor bioinformatics algorithms. Technologies like scientific workflows and data-intensive computing promise new capabilities to enable rapid analysis of next-generation sequence data. Based on this motivation and our previous experiences in bioinformatics and distributed scientific workflows, we are creating a Kepler Scientific Workflow System module, called "bioKepler", that facilitates the development of Kepler workflows for integrated execution of bioinformatics applications in distributed environments. This invited talk discusses the challenges related to next-generation sequencing data and explains the approaches taken in bioKepler to help with analysis of such data.
Plasticity of spermatogonial stem cells

There have been significant breakthroughs over the past decade in the development and use of pluripotent stem cells as a potential source of cells for applications in regenerative medicine. It is likely that this methodology will begin to play an important role in human clinical medicine in the years to come. This review describes the plasticity of one type of pluripotent cell, spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), and their potential therapeutic applications in regenerative medicine and male infertility. Normally, SSCs give rise to sperm when in the testis. However, both human and murine SSCs can give rise to cells with embryonic stem (ES) cell-like characteristics that can be directed to differentiate into tissues of all three embryonic germ layers when placed in an appropriate inductive microenvironment, which is in contrast to other postnatal stem cells. Previous studies have reported that SSCs expressed an intermediate pluripotent phenotype before differentiating into a specific cell type and that extended culture was necessary for this to occur. However, recent studies from our group using a tissue recombination model demonstrated that SSCs differentiated rapidly into another tissue, in this case, prostatic epithelium, without expression of pluripotent ES cell markers before differentiation. These results suggest that SSCs are capable of directly differentiating into other cell types without going through an intermediate ES cell-like stage. Because SSCs do not require reprogramming to achieve a pluripotent state, they are an attractive source of pluripotent cells for use in regenerative medicine.