cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Supplemental oxygen did not reduce progression of pre-threshold retinopathy of prematurity in infants

(2000) Pediatrics 105, 295. The STOP-ROP Multicenter Study Group. . Supplemental therapeutic oxygen for prethreshold retinopathy of prematurity (STOP-ROP), a randomized, controlled trial. I: primary outcomes. . Feb; . : . –310 . [OpenUrl][1][Abstract/FREE Full Text][2] QUESTION: In premature infants, is supplemental oxygen at pulse oximetry saturations of 96% to 99% more effective than conventional oxygen at pulse oximetry saturations of 89% to 94% in reducing the progression from moderate (pre-threshold) to threshold retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)? Randomised (allocation concealed), blinded (outcome assessor), controlled trial with 3 months of follow up. 71 hospitals affiliated with 30 centres in the US. 649 infants (mean gestational age 25 wks, 57% boys, 55% white) who were born prematurely, had pre-threshold ROP in ≥1 eye, and had a median pulse oximetry ≤94% oxygen saturation in room air. Infants were excluded if they had lethal anomalies or congenital anomalies of the eye. Follow up was 92%. After stratification by study centre and 2 levels of baseline ROP severity, infants were randomised to receive supplemental oxygen therapy with pulse oximetry targeted at 96% to 99% oxygen … [1]: {openurl}?query=rft.jtitle%253DPediatrics%26rft.stitle%253DPediatrics%26rft.issn%253D0031-4005%26rft.aulast%253DThe%2BSTOP-ROP%2BMulticenter%2BStudy%2BGroup%26rft.auinit1%253D%2B%26rft.volume%253D105%26rft.issue%253D2%26rft.spage%253D295%26rft.epage%253D310%26rft.atitle%253DSupplemental%2BTherapeutic%2BOxygen%2Bfor%2BPrethreshold%2BRetinopathy%2Bof%2BPrematurity%2B%2528STOP-ROP%2529%252C%2BA%2BRandomized%252C%2BControlled%2BTrial.%2BI%253A%2BPrimary%2BOutcomes%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Adoi%252F10.1542%252Fpeds.105.2.295%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Apmid%252F10654946%26rft.genre%253Darticle%26rft_val_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Ajournal%26ctx_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ctx_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Actx [2]: /lookup/ijlink?linkType=ABST&journalCode=pediatrics&resid=105/2/295&atom=%2Febnurs%2F3%2F4%2F114.atom
Chlorhexidine varnish, sodium fluoride varnish, and silver diamine fluoride solution can prevent the development of new root caries in elders living in senior homes in Hong Kong.

Article Title and Bibliographic Information A randomized trial on root caries prevention in elders. Tan HP, Lo ECM, Dyson JE, Luo Y, Corbet EF. J Dent Res 2010;89(10):1086-90. Reviewer Linda C. Niessen, DMD, MPH Disclosure Dr Niessen serves as Chief Clinical Officer for Dentsply International, which manufactures a fluoride varnish. The fluoride varnish used in this study was not manufactured by Dentsply International Purpose/Question To determine which preventive protocol was most effective in preventing root caries in elders living in senior homes over a 3-year period Source of Funding The Hong Kong Research Grants Council (reference no. HKU7244/02M) Type of Study/Design Randomized controlled trial Level of Evidence Level 2: Limited-quality, patient-oriented evidence Strength of Recommendation Grade Grade B: Inconsistent or limited-quality patient-oriented evidence
Home versus hospital intravenous antibiotic therapy for acute pulmonary exacerbations in children with cystic fibrosis.

Summary. To compare the effectiveness of home versus hospital intravenous (IV) antibiotic therapy for acute pulmonary exacerbations in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). A retrospective chartreviewwasperformedof143encountersforpulmonaryexacerbationsin50patientswithCF. All encounters were categorized into two groups based on location of completion of antibiotic therapy:hospitalgroupcompletedtreatmentinhospital(n ¼64),homegroupcompletedtreatment at home (n ¼79). Percentchange was calculated for forcedvital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1), forced expiratory flow rate between 25 percent and 75 percent of vital capacity(FEF25‐75%),maximumforcedexpiratoryflow(FEFmax),oxygensaturation(O2SAT),and weight. Means of percent change (PC) from the beginning to the end of IV antibiotic treatment in outcome variables were compared. Total duration of treatment was compared between the two groups. The two groups had no significant differences at baseline in all outcome variables. Treatmentofexacerbationsin bothgroupsresultedin significantimprovementof lungfunction,O2 SATS, and weight (P � 0.001). The percent change in FEV1 was greater in hospital group versus home group (P ¼0.04). The duration of treatment was significantly shorter in the hospital group (P ¼0.001). Home and hospital IV antibiotic therapy resulted in significant improvement in lung function and weight. Hospital therapy, however, resulted in significantly greater improvement in FEV-1 and required less duration of treatmentas compared to home treatment in children with CF.
Phase-noise reduction in coherence-multiplexed interferometric fibre sensors

A method for the reduction of excess phase noise in coherence-multiplexed fibre sensors is described. The technique utilises diode laser frequency modulation to effect a frequency translation of the excess noise power. An improvement close to 40 dB in minimum detectable phase shift sensitivity is demonstrated using the technique.
The Lower-Order Expectations of High-Stakes Tests: A Four-State Analysis of Social Studies Standards and Test Alignment

This study indicates that the state-mandated high-stakes social studies assessments in four states do not require students to demonstrate that they have met the cognitive demands articulated in the state-mandated learning standards. Further, the assessments do not allow students to demonstrate the critical thinking skills required by the standards. In this study, researchers from four states with high-stakes social studies tests questioned how well their states' tests measured and aligned with expressed expectations for students related to this objective. They analyzed the nature of four states' high school social studies standards and high-stakes tests for higher or lower cognitive demands and the alignment between them. The analysis showed that the primary expectation for student learning in the standards is for higher cognitive activity than that represented in the tests, which are dominated by low cognitive level items.
On the kinetic barriers of graphene homo-epitaxy

The diffusion processes and kinetic barriers of individual carbon adatoms and clusters on graphene surfaces are investigated to provide fundamental understanding of the physics governing epitaxial growth of multilayer graphene. It is found that individual carbon adatoms form bonds with the underlying graphene whereas the interaction between graphene and carbon clusters, consisting of 6 atoms or more, is very weak being van der Waals in nature. Therefore, small carbon clusters are quite mobile on the graphene surfaces and the diffusion barrier is negligibly small (∼6 meV). This suggests the feasibility of high-quality graphene epitaxial growth at very low growth temperatures with small carbon clusters (e.g., hexagons) as carbon source. We propose that the growth mode is totally different from 3-dimensional bulk materials with the surface mobility of carbon hexagons being the highest over graphene surfaces that gradually decreases with further increase in cluster size.
Water quality of a southeast Texas stream

Water quality of Menard Creek in the Big Thicket National Preserve of southeast Texas was studied from July 1978 to June, 1979 utilizing physicochemical parameters, bacteriological data, and benthic macroinvertebrates.
Expression of Scatter Factor in Human Bladder Carcinoma

Background: Scatter factor (SF) is a protein secreted by stromal (supporting) cells that induces disruption of intercellular junctions and stimulates motility and invasiveness of carcinoma cells. SF is also a potent inducer of angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation), a process required for tumor growth and dissemination. Invasion and angiogenesis are characteristics of biologically aggressive tumors, suggesting that the accumulation of SF within tumors might promote progression to a more malignant phenotype. Purpose: This study was designed to determine if SF is overexpressed in carcinoma of the bladder and to evaluate the potential mechanisms that might account for such overproduction. Methods: We measured the SF content in urine from 20 patients with carcinoma of the bladder and various control groups. We also measured expression of SF in bladder tumor extracts, histologic sections of tumors, and cell culture models, using a variety of techniques, including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, immunohistochemistry, and Western and Northern blot analyses. Statistical comparisons were performed using two-tailed t tests. Results: Urinary SF content was found to be significantly elevated in patients with bladder carcinoma as compared with normal control subjects (P 30 kd), heat-sensitive protein that stimulates SF production by stromal cell types. High titers of a similar SF-inducing activity were detected in vivo, in bladder carcinoma extracts, and in the urine of patients with bladder carcinoma. ConcLusions: Our results suggest that SF is overproduced in bladder carcinomas and accumulates within the tumor and in the urine. Overproduction of SF may result from an abnormal urothelial-stromal interaction in which dysplastic or carcinomatous urothelium secretes factors that stimulate SF expression by bladder wall stromal cells. ImpLication: Quantitation of SF in the urine and tumor deserves further study as a possible marker of urothelial malignancy
Cycle analysis for fuel-inducted internal combustion engine configurations

AbstractA quasi-one-dimensional computer code based on a fuel-air cycle analysis was developed to predict the performance of two- and four-stroke fuel-inducted engines. The analysis was developed to provide boundary conditions for a finite element analysis to predict thermal and mechanical loading of carbon-carbon pistons for use in advanced internal combustion engine concepts. The computer code can predict the required boundary conditions, which are gas pressure and temperature and heat transfer coefficients as a function of crank angle, along with engine indicated and brake power output, thermal efficiency and mean effective pressure. The code utilizes a variable specific heat calculation throughout the cycle. The compression of an air-fuel-residual gas mixture is calculated followed by a finite rate burn, where the burn duration is calculated on the basis of the turbulent flame speed and cylinder geometry. The residual gas content is calculated by an iterative technique. During combustion and expansion...
A status theory of the evaluation of sex-role and age-role behavior

An earlier investigation formulated a status theory of behavioral choice evaluation to explain the lesser approval for cross-sex-role behavior of males than of females. Since males are often assigned higher prestige, their deviation from male to female behavior represents a movement from higher to lower status, resulting in a loss of approval. To determine that the fit of previous data with the theory was indeed due to the status characteristic of sex roles, the current study used the theory to predict the evaluations of appropriate and cross-role behavior concerning age roles as well as sex roles. Furthermore, the effect of status upon evaluation was hypothesized to reside in the association of status with social value and, in turn, the effect of social value upon evaluation. Subjects were 57 male and 40 female university students who provided approval ratings of either appropriate or cross-age-role and sex-role behavior. For sex and age, cross-role behavior received less approval for the higher status actor. This indicated that the lesser approval of cross-sex-role behavior of males was due to the differential status ranking of male and female roles, rather than to some other feature more specific to sex roles. The proposition that social value is the explanatory link in the effect of status upon evaluation is supported by the results.
Characterizing the proton loading site in cytochrome c oxidase.

Cytochrome c oxidase (CcO) uses the energy released by reduction of O2 to H2O to drive eight charges from the high pH to low pH side of the membrane, increasing the electrochemical gradient. Four electrons and protons are used for chemistry, while four more protons are pumped. Proton pumping requires that residues on a pathway change proton affinity through the reaction cycle to load and then release protons. The protonation states of all residues in CcO are determined in MultiConformational Continuum Electrostatics simulations with the protonation and redox states of heme a, a3, CuB, Y288, and E286 used to define the catalytic cycle. One proton is found to be loaded and released from residues identified as the proton loading site (PLS) on the P-side of the protein in each of the four CcO redox states. Thus, the same proton pumping mechanism can be used each time CcO is reduced. Calculations with structures of Rhodobacter sphaeroides, Paracoccus denitrificans, and bovine CcO derived by crystallography and molecular dynamics show the PLS functions similarly in different CcO species. The PLS is a cluster rather than a single residue, as different structures show 1–4 residues load and release protons. However, the proton affinity of the heme a3 propionic acids primarily determines the number of protons loaded into the PLS; if their proton affinity is too low, less than one proton is loaded.
Low Risk of Subsequent Deep-Venous Thrombosis in Patients with a Negative Venous Duplex Scan:

Venous duplex scanning (VDS) is sensitive and specific for proximal deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) but has poor sensitivity for isolated calf DVT, some of which can extend to the proximal veins and result in clin ically significant pulmonary emboli. The intent of this study was to determine the long-term outcome of outpa tients with negative VDS and to assess the accuracy of three biochemical markers of hypercoagulability for the detection of DVT. Consecutive ambulatory patients re ferred to our vascular laboratory with a question of lower extremity DVT had plasma determination of D-dimer, prothrombin fragment 1.2, and thrombin-antithrombin complex. Additionally, patients with a negative VDS were followed for 6 months to determine the frequency of subsequent venous thrombosis. Of 207 patients seen in our vascular laboratory, 171 had either a single negative VDS or two negative studies (done 24-72 h apart). Fol low-up of 161 patients for 6 months showed no evidence of venous thromboembolism. The remaining 10 p...
The Necessity-Concerns Framework: a Multidimensional Theory Benefits from Multidimensional Analysis

Background Patients’ medication-related concerns and necessity-beliefs predict adherence. Evaluation of the potentially complex interplay of these two dimensions has been limited because of methods that reduce them to a single dimension (difference scores).
Missed opportunities for preventing congenital syphilis infection in New York City.

Objective To describe health care providers' missed opportunities for preventing and treating congenital syphilis in New York City. Methods Review of congenital syphilis cases reported to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2009. Receipt and timing of prenatal care, serologic testing, and treatment of mothers and newborns were reviewed. Missed opportunities were defined as receipt of prenatal care plus one of the following: 1) lack of documented treatment for syphilis infection diagnosed before pregnancy; 2) absence of serologic testing during pregnancy; 3) late maternal treatment; 4) maternal treatment with a nonpenicillin regimen; or 5) lack of maternal treatment. Results In total, 195 newborns with congenital syphilis were born to 190 mothers with 191 pregnancies. Overall, 80% (95% confidence interval [CI] 74-86%, 152 of 190) of all mothers received prenatal care; 63% (95% CI 56-71%, 96 of 152) of these had one or more missed opportunities for prevention. Twelve mothers received inadequate treatment or no treatment during the case pregnancy for documented syphilis infection before pregnancy, and 42 mothers without previous syphilis diagnosis did not have serologic testing during the case pregnancy. Of 103 mothers with syphilis diagnosed before 30 weeks of gestation, 12 received late penicillin therapy, 27 received no therapy, and 3 received inappropriate (nonpenicillin) therapy. Seventeen percent (95% CI 12-22%, 33 of 193) of liveborn newborns received no treatment during their hospitalization. Conclusion Providers missed well-defined opportunities to prevent congenital syphilis for the majority of cases. Combined efforts to prevent future cases include provider education and better integration of care between obstetricians and pediatricians. Level of evidence III.
On nonmonotonic reasoning with the method of sweeping presumptions

Reasoning almost always occurs in the face of incomplete information. Such reasoning is nonmonotonic in the sense that conclusions drawn may later be withdrawn when additional information is obtained. There is an active literature on the problem of modeling such nonmonotonic reasoning, yet no category of method-let alone a single method-has been broadly accepted as the right approach. This paper introduces a new method, called sweeping presumptions, for modeling nonmonotonic reasoning. The main goal of the paper is to provide an example-driven, nontechnical introduction to the method of sweeping presumptions, and thereby to make it plausible that sweeping presumptions can usefully be applied to the problems of nonmonotonic reasoning. The paper discusses a representative sample of examples that have appeared in the literature on nonmonotonic reasoning, and discusses them from the point of view of sweeping presumptions.
Global Dimension of Robust Project Network Design

Managing the increased complexity, emerging uncertainties, and diversity of cultures on global projects is creating significant challenges for architecture, engineering, and construction firms. In global projects, differences in "institutions"—including language, beliefs, values, group norms, work practices, professional roles, industry organizations, and legal frameworks—among team members from different national backgrounds can lead to misunderstanding and conflicts that cause delays, increase costs, and reduce quality. Previous research has examined risk factors associated with international project execution. However, little research to date has explored whether reconfiguring project networks might mitigate such risks. Project organizational simulation tools have been combined with "robust design" experimental techniques to design robust project networks that can perform reliably in uncertain conditions. This paper extends project network design research to examine whether robust designs for given project networks differ between "domestic" and "global" projects, given differing organizational uncertainties. The results demonstrate that robust project network designs may differ for global project networks. This finding has significant implications for the design of project networks in an industry where firm participation in global project networks is increasing, both domestically and abroad.
Phase I Trial of Cisplatin, Pemetrexed, and Imatinib Mesylate in Chemonaive Patients With Unresectable Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma

Abstract Background We conducted a phase I trial of cisplatin/pemetrexed/imatinib mesylate, an oral platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) inhibitor, in chemonaive patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). Methods A standard 3 + 3 dose-escalating trial was used with the end points of maximum tolerated dose (MTD), response rate, survival, safety/toxicity, and tumor PDGFR levels. Results Seventeen patients with MPM were enrolled. The most common (any grade) side effects were nausea, fatigue, hypomagnesemia, and anemia. The MTD was established at dose level 3 (imatinib 600 mg) with a dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) of nausea and vomiting. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 7.9 months and the median overall survival (OS) was 8.8 months. Patients with a sarcomatoid subtype had worse PFS ( P = .01) and OS ( P = .009), whereas they had a better Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS) of 0-1 predicted for improved OS ( P = .001) and PFS ( P = .013). The 6 patients who completed all 6 treatment cycles had better OS ( P = .006); the median PFS was 9.6 months and the OS was 22.4 months. In the translational studies, 14 patients had adequate tumor tissue that could be assessed for immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Patients with higher than median p-PDGFRα IHC expression had a better OS ( P = .013). When assessed as a continuous variable, higher p-PDGFRα in tumor cells correlated with an improved OS ( P = .045). None of the other 4 IHC biomarkers were predictive or prognostic for survival. Twelve patients had successful PDGFRB FISH results, but none met the criteria of ≥ 4 copies of the PDGFRB gene; thus a correlation with clinical outcomes could not be done. Conclusion The cisplatin/pemetrexed/imatinib mesylate combination had clinical benefit in some patients with MPM but was not well tolerated. Further investigation into alternative antiangiogenic agents, including PDGFRα inhibitors, is warranted.
Transaxillary subcutaneouscopic sternocleidomastoid tumor division for treatment of persistent torticollis in children: our technique

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the transaxillary subcutaneous endoscopic sternocleidomastoid muscle division for treatment of persistent torticollis. Traditionally persistent sternomastoid torticollis is treated with a neck incision which results in a neck scar. We report our technique of transaxillary subcutaneouscopic sternocleidomastoid (TASS) division for treatment of persistent torticollis which avoids a neck scar and provides a better view of the neck structures. A 10-year-old girl presented to the clinic for the first time with a history of right sided torticollis. Contralateral (left) side neck rotation and extension were extremely limited. She was able to flex and rotate her neck slightly to the same side. A tough fibrous cord was felt on palpation of her right sternomastoid which was limiting her neck motion. Her neck position was flexed and rotated to the right at rest. The right sternocleidomastoid muscle was divided using the transaxillary subcutaneouscopic technique. The patient tolerated the procedure very well with full range of motion (was able to flex and extend the neck fully and also able to move it side to side [rotation] to the full extent on both sides) of her neck and had good cosmetic results with almost invisible scars hidden in the axilla. Finally, we concluded that the transaxillary subcutaneouscopic sternocleidomastoid muscle division is a good surgical technique for treatment of persistent torticollis in children.
Regulation of Phagocyte NADPH Oxidase by Hydrogen Peroxide through a Ca2+/c-Abl Signaling Pathway

Abstract The importance of H 2 O 2 as a cellular signaling molecule has been demonstrated in a number of cell types and pathways. Here we explore a positive feedback mechanism of H 2 O 2 -mediated regulation of the phagocyte respiratory burst NADPH oxidase (NOX2). H 2 O 2 induced a dose-dependent stimulation of superoxide production in human neutrophils, as well as in K562 leukemia cells overexpressing NOX2 system components. Stimulation was abrogated by the addition of catalase, the extracellular Ca 2+ chelator BAPTA, the T-type Ca 2+ channel inhibitor mibefradil, the PKCδ inhibitor rottlerin, or the c-Abl nonreceptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib mesylate or by overexpression of a dominant-negative form of c-Abl. H 2 O 2 induced phosphorylation of tyrosine 311 on PKCδ and this activating phosphorylation was blocked by treatment with rottlerin, imatinib mesylate, or BAPTA. Rac GTPase activation in response to H 2 O 2 was abrogated by BAPTA, imatinib mesylate, or rottlerin. In conclusion, H 2 O 2 stimulates NOX2-mediated superoxide generation in neutrophils and K562/NOX2 cells via a signaling pathway involving Ca 2+ influx and c-Abl tyrosine kinase acting upstream of PKCδ. This positive feedback regulatory pathway has important implications for amplifying the innate immune response and contributing to oxidative stress in inflammatory disorders.
Backscattering Of Laser Light From Freely Rising Spherical And Spheroidal Air Bubbles In Water

Observations were made of the near backward scattering of polarized laser light from freely rising spherical and oblate spheroidal air bubbles in fresh water. The cross-polarized pattern was observed and was modeled with a physical optics approximation for two different incident polarization directions relative to the axis of rotational symmetry of the spheroidal bubble. A rigid sphere drag law and relations from hydrodynamics were used to estimate bubble oblateness. The directional caustics associated with the near-backward directed wavefronts from oblate bubbles were calculated and may be used to estimate bubble oblateness from certain features of the angular scattering pattern.
Components of predation intensity in the low zone of the New England rocky intertidal region.

Predation intensity often increases along local gradients of decreasing environmental rigor. Assuming factors such as productivity and heterogeneity do not change along such gradients, potential factors responsible for this pattern include: (1) increased effectiveness per individual predator, (2) increased numbers of individual predators, (3) increased numbers of predator species of the same general morphological attributes, and (4) increased numbers of predator species of different general morphological attributes. I term these factors the components of predation intensity.In relatively protected low rocky intertidal regions of northern New England, community structure depends in part on the foraging activities of up to six species (three general types) of predators (Lubchenco and Menge 1978). These include three species of crab, two species of seastars, and one thaidid gastropod. This predator guild prevents mussel and barnacle populations from outcompeting Chondrus crispus. This red alga dominates space when predators are present, but is outcompeted by mussels when predators are excluded.Prey consumption rates (mg per predator individual per hr or mg g-1 hr-1) in field experiments indicate that the rank from most to least effective predator type is crabs, seastars, and the gastropod. Statistically significant variations occur between predator types (largest differences), species of a given type, and individuals of a species (smallest differences). Estimates of the relative contribution of each species to total predation intensity in the low zone at several sites indicate that each predator species is a major predator at one or more sites. Thus, if one predator species in this guild becomes scarce, the other predators may increase their effects and reduce variation in the total predation intensity exerted by the guild. Comparisons with other systems suggest that increased diversity of types of foraging characteristics in predatory guilds is an important component of increased predation intensity along gradients of decreased environmental rigor.
750-3 The Role of Triglyceride-Rich Lipoprotein Families in the Progression of Coronary Artery Atherosclerotic Lesions

The affect of triglyceride-rich lipoprotein particles on the progression of coronary artery atherosclerotic lesions is not known. In a subset of 270 subjects in the Monitored Atherosclerosis Regression Study, lovastatin significantly reduced apolipoprotein (Apo) B and cholesterol-rich lipoprotein (Lp) B levels without significantly affecting triglyceride-rich Lp (LpB c ) particles, Lp-B:C, Lp-B:C:E, and Lp-AII:B:C:D:E. This differential affect of lovastatin on apoBcontaining lipoproteins offered the opportunity to determine the independent relationship of LpB and specific LpBc particles on the progression of coronary artery disease. Subjects were randomized to lovastatin 40 mg b.i.d. or placebo for 2 years and progression determined by quantitative coronary angiography. There were 15 progressors (P) and 15 nonprogressors (NP) in the lovastatin group and 13 Pand 13 NP in the placebo group. In the placebo group, there was a significant difference between Pand NP (mean ± SEM) in plasma triglyceride (259 ± 33.6 vs 142.9 ± 20.8, P = 0.003), apoCIII (16.1 ± 1.2 vs 11.9 ± 0.7, P = 0.02), and apoB (127.4 ± 5.9 vs 112.4 ± 4.7, P = 0.04) levels. In the lovastatin group, there was a significant difference between P and NP in Lp-AII:B:C:D:E (8.4 ± 1.3 vs 5.0 ± 0.9, p = 0.02) and apoAI (119.3 ± 61 vs 134.0 ± 3.6, p = 0.02) levels. However, there was no significant difference in Lp-B:C or Lp-B:C:E levels between P and NP. These data confirm the atherogenic potential of LpB particles and show that after reduction of LpB particles to below 75 mg/dL in the lovastatin group. LpBc particles in general, and Lp-AII:B:C:D:E specifically, play an important role in progression of coronary artery disease. The possible reason for the atherogenic potential of Lp-AII: B:C:D:E relative to other LpBc particles may be related to its lower reactivity toward lipoprotein lipase and therefore, longer residence time in the circulation.
Improved separation of closely related metal ions by centrifugal partition chromatography

Abstract Centrifugal Partition Chromatography (CPC) has been used for the analytical scale separations of adjacent trivalent lanthanides. The stationary phase was 0.1 M Cyanex 272 (bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)phosphinic acid) in heptane and the mobile phase was water at the appropriate pH. Baseline separations of the adjacent lanthanides were achieved with an observed column efficiency of 320 /pm 40 theoretical plates. The column efficiency decreased with flow rate, i.e., the normal Van Deemter behavior was observed. The distribution ratios (D) of selected trivalent lanthanides at different pH values were in general in good agreement with the values determined by batch solvent extraction method. The D obtained with CPC differed markedly from the solvent extraction values inn certain cases resulting in a dependence of separation factor (α) of adjacent lanthanides on pH. This anomaly is under further investigation. The number of theoretical plates, selectivity and resolution of adjacent lanthanides obtained w...
Peripheral gustatory processing of sweet stimuli by golden hamsters.

Abstract Behaviors and taste-nerve responses to bitter stimuli are linked to compounds that bind T2 receptors expressed in one subset of taste-bud receptor cells (TRCs); and behavioral and neural responses to sweet stimuli are linked to chemical compounds that bind a T1 receptor expressed in a different TRC subset. Neural and behavioral responses to bitter-sweet mixtures, however, complicate the ostensible bitter and sweet labeled lines . In the golden hamster, Mesocricetus auratus , quinine hydrochloride, the bitter prototype, suppresses chorda tympani (CT) nerve responses to the sweet prototype: sucrose. This bitter-sweet inhibition was tested with concentration series of sucrose and dulcin, a hydrophobic synthetic sweetener that hamsters behaviorally cross-generalize with sucrose. Dulcin, sucrose and other sweeteners activate one subset of CT fibers: S neurons; whereas, quinine activates a separate subset of CT fibers: E neurons. Whole-nerve and S -neuron CT responses to a sweetener concentration series, mixed with 0, 1, 3 and 10 mM quinine, were measured for 0–2.5 s transient and/or 2.6–10 s steady-state response periods. Ten-sec total single-fiber records, aligned at response onset, were averaged for 100 ms bins to identify response oscillations. Quinine inhibition of dulcin and sucrose responses was identical. Each log molar increment in quinine resulted in equivalent declines in response to either sweetener. Furthermore, sucrose response decrements paralleled response increments in quinine-sensitive CT neurons to the same quinine increases. A 1.43 Hz bursting rhythm to the sweeteners was unchanged by quinine inhibition or decreases in sweetener concentration. Taste-bud processing, possibly between-cell inhibition and within-cell negative feedback, must modify signals initiated by T1 receptors before they are transmitted to the brain.
Evaluation of factors influencing replication of serotype 1 Marek's disease vaccines in the chicken lung.

Factors influencing replication of serotype 1 Marek's disease vaccines in the lung of chickens within the first 10 days of age (doa) were evaluated. In particular, the effect of vaccine efficacy, age/route of vaccination, and vaccine dose were examined in three experiments. In the first experiment, three vaccine pairs, each pair consisting of a high protective (HP) and a low protective (LP) vaccine (CVI988/BP5 and CVI988-Clone C, 648A80 and 648A100, R2 and R2/23) were used to inoculate chickens subcutaneously (s.c.) with 2000 plaque-forming units (PFU) at hatch. DNA load in the lung was significantly higher in the HP vaccine group than the LP vaccine group at 5 and 10 doa in two of the three vaccine pairs. In the lung, at 5 doa, early MDV gene transcripts (ICP4 and pp38) were detected in most vaccine groups, whereas late MDV gene transcripts (gB and gI) were detected only in the HP vaccine group. In the second experiment, chickens were vaccinated in ovo or s.c. at hatch with 2000 PFU R2, R2/23, or CVI988/...
The impact of supercomputing capabilities on U.S. materials science and technology

Abstract A committee was formed under the auspices of the National Academy of Sciences to identify areas of materials science and engineering where a major impact might be realized, resulting from the emergence of supercomputer technology. A great number of examples of exciting individual computational science were identified: Atomistic and electronic structure calculations on metals, semiconductors, and polymers; statistical mechanical studies of alloy phase diagrams; and fundamental modeling of fracture and deformation in metals, ceramics, and glasses are among those that are vigorously exploiting supercomputer technology. Moreover, electronic structure effects on a scale of angstroms are being coupled with microstructural aspects on a scale of micrometers, and these are further coupled to continuum effects on a scale of centimeters. Supercomputers are emerging as powerful and cost-effective tools, not only for the furtherance of materials science, but also for linking this science with engineering, design, and manufacturing. In this paper each example stands alone, consisting of a brief technological background followed by the specific supercomputer examples.
NAD‐, NMN‐, and NADP‐dependent modification of dinitrogenase reductases from Rhodospirillum rubrum and Azotobacter vinelandii

Nitrogenase activity in the photosynthetic bacterium Rhodospirillum rubrum is reversibly regulated by ADP-ribosylation of a specific arginine residue of dinitrogenase reductase based on the cellular nitrogen or energy status. In this paper, we have investigated the ability of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, NAD (the physiological ADP-ribose donor), and its analogs to support covalent modification of dinitrogenase reductase in vitro. R. rubrum dinitrogenase reductase can be modified by DRAT in the presence of 2 mM NAD, but not with 2 mM nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP). We also found that the apo- and the all-ferrous forms of R. rubrum dinitrogenase reductase are not substrates for covalent modification. In contrast, Azotobacter vinelandii dinitrogenase reductase can be modified by the dinitrogenase reductase ADP-ribosyl transferase (DRAT) in vitro in the presence of either 2 mM NAD, NMN or NADP as nucleotide donors. We found that: (1) a simple ribose sugar in the modification site of the A. vinelandii dinitrogenase reductase is sufficient to inactivate the enzyme, (2) phosphoADP-ribose is the modifying unit in the NADP-modified enzyme, and (3) the NMN-modified enzyme carries two ribose-phosphate units in one modification site. This is the first report of NADP- or NMN-dependent modification of a target protein by an ADP-ribosyl transferase.
Negative Regulation of Cell-proliferation of Adult Stem Cells in the Midgut and Hindgut by dMats in Drosophila melanogaster

The existence of adult stem cells in the midgut and hindgut of Drosophila has been reported. The components of Hippo pathway such as dWarts and dYki were involved in the regulation of stem cell proliferation in the midgut. In this study, we reported the role of dMats in the control of stem cell proliferation in the midgut and hindgut of adult fruit fly. The eGFP signals driven by dmats indicated that dMats expressed in small diploid cells in the adult midgut and hindgut. By inducing MARCM cell clones, the dmats -/-cell clones in the midgut exhibited a bigger cell number than wild type cell clones and tissue outgrowth. Similarly, the dmats-/- mutation also caused more cell numbers in hindgut. Thus, dMats was critical to control stem cell proliferation in midgut as well as in hindgut. Our results implicated an important regulatory role for Hippo pathway in the regulation of adult stem cell proliferation.
The coexistence of three neuroactive substances in amacrine cells of the chicken retina.

Abstract For the first time in the vertebrate retina, we have demonstrated that 3 neuroactive substances coexist in a single neuron. Using immunofluorescence, immunoperoxidase, and autoradiographic techniques, we found a subpopulation of amacrine cells in the chicken retina exhibited enkephalin- and neurotensin-like immunoreactivity and high-affinity uptake of glycine. Biochemical evidence showed that glycine release in this retina is inhibited by enkephalin and enhanced by neurotensin 1,14 . It is therefore possible that the two peptides form a push-pull system in self-regulating the glycine release from retinal amacrine cells.
Observation of the day airglow

An unsuccessful attempt to observe the day airglow in the region 3000 to 9000 A with a small photographic spectrograph from n balloon has already been described by Wallace [1961]. A second instrument of higher resolution was flown on September 24, 1962; it was a Littrow spectrograph, using a 12-inch focal length f/2.5 aerial camera lens and a 600-groove/mm diffraction grating. The spectrum in the region 4500 to 7500 A was photographed in the second order with a reciprocal dispersion of 26 A/mm on an Eastman 103a-F plate; a gelatin filter was used to exclude the unwanted third order. A neon spectrum was photographed simultaneously with the sky spectrum, principally for the purpose of a performance test.
The selection of public utility commissioners: A re-examination of the importance of institutional setting

The result of a great many studies is that it makes no difference to the rate level whether the public utility commission is appointed or elected. Nevertheless, the typical response to an inquiry regarding the effect of appointment versus election is that a difference in resulting rate structure should exist. In this paper we have reconciled these views and more carefully examined the issue of whether institutional setting does matter in the setting of regulated electricity prices. We suggest that one should not necessarily expect elected PUCs to behave differently than appointed ones. Instead different behavior should be expected from PUCs that are ‘closer’ to their constituents than those more isolated, irrespective of whether the PUC is elected or appointed. The results of an empirical examination based on a large sample of utilities operating during the period of 1981-83 support this view. The more narrowly defined is the consumer voter-group, everything else the same, the lower is the rate set by the PUC.
Simulation of an Ensemble of Conformational Transitions in a United-Residue Model of Calmodulin

Conformational transitions in proteins provide the mechanism for enacting many critical biological functions at the molecular level. Unfortunately, a full description of the ensemble of dynamical pathways in proteins has been out of reach for both experimental and computational techniques. Here, we demonstrate that a simple residue-level computer model of calmodulin's N-terminal lobe yields a statistically converged ensemble of dynamic conformational transitions using ordinary Monte Carlo simulation, without guiding forces, in a few months time on a single desktop computer. The ensemble reveals clear pathway heterogeneity, and additionally provides detailed information on intermediate structures. The model uses static structural information from two Protein Data Bank files as the sole empirical input, whereas the dynamical results are generated from ordinary simulation.
A coupled two-compartment model for immobilized enzyme electrodes

Abstract The effect of stirring on the transient and pseudo steady-state behavior of potentiometric and amperometric immobilized enzyme electrodes is accurately modelled by a coupled two-compartment system of nonlinear differential equations. In the first compartment, the enzyme layer, the chemistry is governed by enzyme kinetics and diffusion. This is coupled to the second compartment, the bulk solution, which is controlled only by molecular diffusion. Several results of analytical significance can be obtained by using this model: for example, it is shown how the stirring rate can be used to increase the linear dynamic range.
What is the Vaqueros Formation of California and Is It Oligocene

The Vaqueros formation of the Coast Ranges of California has not been adequately defined as a stratigraphic unit and its early Miocene age is an assumption. Considering that Lyell (1833) specified a type locality for the Miocene, and believing that the Aquitanian stage of Europe should be taken as upper Oligocene, the writer expresses the opinion that the Turritella inezana zone, in whole or in part, may prove to be of Oligocene age.
Differences in the histogenesis and keratin expression of avian extraembryonic ectoderm and endoderm recombined with dermis.

Abstract The responses of the chorionic ectoderm and allantoic endoderm (from 8-day chick embryos) to dermal induction were compared through tissue recombinants grafted onto the chorioallantoic membrane. The chorionic epithelium formed the appropriate epidermis with a fully developed stratum corneum in response to both spur and scutate scale dermises. Analysis of these recombinant epidermal tissues by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) demonstrated that tissue-specific expression of the alpha (α) and beta (β) keratin polypeptides occurred. In addition, indirect immunofluorescence studies with antisera to α or β keratins showed that the beta stratum, which characterizes the epidermis of spurs and scutate scales, was formed, and the α keratins were distributed as in the normal epidermal tissues. In contrast, although the allantoic endoderm became stratified in association with either spur or scutate scale dermis, a stratum corneum with a beta stratum did not develop. SDS-PAGE analysis demonstrated that while the characteristic β keratins of scutate scales and spur were not detected, most of the α keratins normally elaborated by these structures were present, suggesting that even without histogenesis of a stratum corneum the expression of α keratins of endoderm could be regulated in a tissue-specific manner by dermis. This study also demonstrated that there are differences in the abilities of the chorionic and allantoic epithelia to respond to the same dermal cues, which may reflect earlier restrictions in their developmental potentials.
Using Electron Spin Echo Envelope Modulation (ESEEM) to Probe the Local Environment of Residues in the KcsA Potassium Channel

Abstract: Recent studies on the voltage-dependent potassium channel KvAP have demonstrated the importance of the lipid bilayer in maintaining the correct orientation and packing of the voltage-sensor domain with respect to the pore domain [1, 2]. It has also been suggested that lipid may play an integral role in voltage-dependent gating [3, 4]. To date, the precise environment surrounding the four important S4 arginine residues on the voltage-sensing paddle is still unknown, with some models placing them in an aqueous crevice, and others a lipid environment. To learn more about the intricate role of lipid in the structure and function of potassium channels we have studied deuterium and phosphate ESEEM on spin-labeled, liposome reconstituted KcsA. By scanning the trans-membrane helices of KcsA, we show that deuterium coupling can be used to determine residue depth within a lipid bilayer. In addition, residues that interact with the phosphate head-groups of the lipid can be determined by phosphate coupling, and their precise location modeled.References:1. Lee, S., Lee, A., Chen, J., Mackinnon, R. 2005. Structure of the KvAP voltage-dependent K+ channel and its dependence on the lipid membrane. PNAS. 102, 15441-15446.2. Cuello, L., Cortes, M., Perozo, E. 2004. Molecular Architecture Structure of the KvAP voltage-dependent K+ channel in a lipid bilayer. Science. 306, 491-495.3. Xu, Y., Ramu, Y., and Lu, A., 2008. Removal of phopho-head groups of membrane lipids immobilizes voltage sensors of K+ channels. Nature. 451, 926-829.4. Schmidt, D., Jiang, QX., and MacKinnon, R. 2006. Phospholipids and the origin of cationic gating charges in voltage sensors. Nature. 444, 775-779.
Lysine transport across the mucosal border of the perfused midgut in the freshwater shrimp,Macrobrachium rosenbergii

1) Unidirectional transmembrane transport of3H-lysine across the mucosal border of the midgut from the freshwater shrimp,Macrobrachium rosenbergii, has been examined using an in vitro perfusion procedure. 2) Influx of this amino acid appeared to take place through a high-affinity, carrier-mediated transport system displaying Michaelis-Menten kinetics (Kt=18.0±2.1 μM;J mc max =0.50±0.06 nm/g min) and an apparent low-affinity mechanism that had a transfer rate which was a linear function of luminal lysine concentration. The latter system cannot be conclusively distinguished from simple diffusion at this time. 3) The high-affinity process was sodium-dependent (lithium adequately substituting for sodium) and inhibited by arginine and iodoacetic acid. 4) The apparent low-affinity transport mechanism displayed homoexchange diffusion and was sodium-independent, inhibited by arginine and unaffected by iodoacetic acid. 5) Entry of lysine by either process was unresponsive to NaCN, ouabain and alteration of luminal pH. 6) These results suggest that cationic amino acid influx in crustacean intestine appears similar to processes reported for these solutes from a large variety of cell types. The major difference found for the shrimp gut is the apparent adaptation of the high-affinity carrier process for very low lysine concentrations.