cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The role of cachectin/TNF in endotoxic shock and cachexia

Abstract The histories of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and cachectin have recently converged, with the recognition that they are one and the same molecule. Cachectin/TNF appears to be a major factor in the pathology that accompanies invasion by a foreign organism - the host mounts an exagerated response that is itself debilatory. Here, Bruce Beutler and Anthony Cerami review the involvement of cachectin/TNF in wasting and shock, as well as its more beneficial influences.
Multilevel Slug Tests with Comparisons to Tracer Data

Multilevel slug tests were conducted in a confined, granular aquifer near Mobile, Alabama. Tracer injection and travel time experiments, more direct measurements of transport in the aquifer, were also conducted at the same location. The objective was to compare results of the two field investigations to ascertain the accuracy and utility of slug testing to measure transport properties of the aquifer. Nondimensional hydraulic conductivity profiles inferred from the slug tests and the tracer experiments were similar. The similarity of the profiles supported the utility of multilevel slug testing to characterize the hydraulic conductivity profile in the aquifer. The slug test data collected in three wells were interpreted using a radial flow model (Cooper et al., 1967) and a finite element model which considered both radial and vertical flow (Widdowson et al., 1989, 1990). Hydraulic conductivity values inferred from the measured data considering both radial and vertical flow were approximately two-thirds of the values inferred assuming radial flow.
TH‐E‐211‐06: Further Development of VirtualDose Software for CT Dose Assessment: Realistic Phantoms and Smartphone User Interfaces

Purpose: To demonstrate the feasibility of a new software applications for both PC and smartphone users to easily track patient CT doses. Methods: Many of existing tools for reporting CT dose are based on data derived from stylistic phantoms. Based on extensive original dose data derived from Monte Carlo simulations and computational phantoms including a new set of BMI‐adjustable obese patient phantoms, VirtualDose is being designed with interactive, user‐friendly graphical interfaces afforded both on the PC and the smartphone platforms. Organ doses and effective doses are computed using ICRP Publication 60 and 103. The software is developed using the C# for PCs and JAVA for the Android smartphones. Results: VirtualDose offers a modern graphical user interface (GUI) designed to allow interactive 3D phantom display and user‐selectable scanning parameters. Standard scanning ranges can be selected from a pull‐down menu or manually specified on the displayed phantom. The new developed morbidly obese phantom was found to have CTorgan doses on average a factor of 0.76 times smaller than that of the normal weight phantom for the same tube current because of shielding by the extra fat. For the same injected activity, the average PETorgan dose ratios were 0.95 and 0.65 for source organs and organs in the remainder, respectively. Conclusions: The preliminary GUI design and reporting features of VirtualDose improve upon existing tools by considering the latest CT scanners, smartphone platform, new ICRP recommendations and anatomically realistic patient phantoms.
“Carrying it for the whole race”: Achievement, race and meaning among five high achieving African American men

This article compares two groups of high-achieving African-American male high school seniors and the degree to which their achievement is influenced by negative stereotypes and ideas of racial group membership. Although all of the participants were high-achieving students, they found distinct motivations for this achievement that are impacted by their perspectives on issues of race, racism, and negative stereotypes. This research suggests that our conceptions of academic achievement should avoid assumptions that achievement has some inherent or intrinsic value that is consistent across or within cultural, ethnic, and economic contexts.
The Maltreatment of Children: A Review of Theories and Research

This article reviews the literature pertaining to the causes of child maltreatment. The review discusses 68 articles from various disciplines and organizes them into four predominant theories; psychodynamic, social learning, social psychological, and sociological. Research evidence supporting each of the theories is described and critiqued. Language: en
Integrin Ligands Mobilize Ca2+ from Ryanodine Receptor-gated Stores and Lysosome-related Acidic Organelles in Pulmonary Arterial Smooth Muscle Cells

Extracellular matrix (ECM) protein receptors, or integrins, participate in vascular remodeling and the systemic myogenic response. Synthetic ligands and ECM fragments regulate the vascular smooth muscle cell contractile state by altering intracellular Ca2+ levels ([Ca2+]i). Information on the Ca2+ effect of integrins in vascular smooth muscle cells is limited, but nonexistent in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs). We therefore characterized integrin expression in endothelium-denuded pulmonary arteries, and explored [Ca2+]i mobilization pathways induced by soluble ligands in rat PASMCs. Reverse transcriptase-PCR showed mRNA expression of integrins alpha1, alpha2, alpha3, alpha4, alpha5, alpha7, alpha8, alpha(v), beta1, beta3, and beta4, and immunoblots of alpha5, alpha(v), beta1, and beta3 confirmed protein expression. Exposure of PASMCs to integrin-binding peptides (0.5 mM) containing the arginine-glycine-aspartate (RGD) motif elicited [Ca2+]i responses with an order of potency of GRGDNP > GRGDSP > GRGDTP = cyclo-RGD. Pharmacological analysis revealed that the GRGDSP-induced Ca2+ response was unrelated to Ca2+ influx and the inositol triphosphate receptor-gated Ca2+ store, but partially blocked by ryanodine or inhibition of lysosome-related acidic organelles with bafilomycin A1. Simultaneous inhibition of both pathways was necessary to abolish the response. GRGDSP treatment increased cyclic ADP-ribose, the endogenous activator of ryanodine receptors, by 70%. GRGDSP also rapidly reduced Lysotracker Red accumulation, confirming direct modulation of acidic organelles. These data are the first demonstration of integrin-mediated Ca2+ regulation in PASMCs. The presence of an array of integrins, and activation of ryanodine-sensitive Ca2+ stores and lysosome-like organelles by GRGDSP suggest important roles for integrin-dependent Ca2+ signaling in regulating PASMC function.
Use of AERMOD to Determine a Hydrogen Sulfide Emission Factor for Swine Operations by Inverse Modeling.

Abstract This study was conducted to determine both optimal settings applied to the plume dispersion model, AERMOD, and a scalable emission factor for accurately determining the spatial distribution of hydrogen sulfide concentrations in the vicinity of swine concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs). These operations emit hydrogen sulfide from both housing structures and waste lagoons. With ambient measurements made at 4 stations within 1 km of large swine CAFOs in Iowa, an inverse-modeling approach applied to AERMOD was used to determine hydrogen sulfide emission rates. CAFO buildings were treated as volume sources whereas nearby lagoons were modeled as area sources. The robust highest concentration (RHC), calculated for both measured and modeled concentrations, was used as the metric for adjusting the emission rate until the ratio of the two RHC levels was unity. Utilizing this approach, an average emission flux rate of 0.57 μg m−2 s−1 was determined for swine CAFO lagoons. Using the average total animal weight (kg) of each CAFO, an average emission factor of 6.06 × 10−7 μg yr−1 m−2 kg−1 was calculated. From studies that measured either building or lagoon emission flux rates, building fluxes, on a floor area basis, were considered equal to lagoon flux rates. The emission factor was applied to all CAFOs surrounding the original 4 sites and surrounding an additional 6 sites in Iowa, producing an average modeled-to-measured RHC ratio of 1.24. When the emission factor was applied to AERMOD to simulate the spatial distribution of hydrogen sulfide around a hypothetical large swine CAFO (1 M kg), concentrations within 0.5 km from the CAFO exceeded 25 ppb and dropped to 2 ppb within 6 km of the CAFO. These values compare to a level of 30 ppb that has been determined by the State of Iowa as a threshold level for ambient hydrogen sulfide levels.
Nanodomain and interface structure in epitaxial BaTiO3 thin films on MgO deposited by magnetron sputtering

High epitaxial quality BaTiO3 films were deposited on the MgO (001) substrate using RF magnetron sputtering at 800 °C by manipulating processing parameters. The BaTiO3 films have a ~200 nm thickness with a very low surface roughness but a rough interface structure with respect to the substrate. The epitaxial BaTiO3 films have a tetragonal crystal structure (a = 4.02 A and c = 4.11 A) with a tetragonality (c/a) of 1.02. The c-axis of the film is parallel to the growth direction as characterized by X-ray diffraction, electron diffraction, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The orientation relationship between the film and the MgO is (001)BTO//(001)MgO and 〈100〉BTO//〈100〉MgO. Epitaxial nanodomains were formed in the film with a size ranging from 3 to 20 nm. The formation of the nanodomains is associated with the rough film/substrate interface due to the modification of the substrate surface characteristics (steps, terraces, and kinks) during the process. The two-dimensional interface structure between the film and the substrate was studied and its influence on the film microstructure is discussed.
Factor‐analytic structure of patient internal state

The present analysis represents a relatively simple technique that can be used to study patient internal states. Thus, when patients were asked to indicate the extent to which they experienced each of 33 feelings, consistent with previous literature, they viewed their feelings in generally positive or negative terms. Inconsistent with previous results, when show that therapists produce a highly differentiated factor structure when asked to describe their patient's feelings, the present study also found that therapists saw their patients in generally positive or negative terms. This result was attributed to the experience level of the therapists, as the present study utilized only inexperienced therapists, whereas experienced therapists were used in previous analyses.
Developmental expression of placental trophoblast P-450 cholesterolside-chain cleavage, adrenodoxin and Δ5-3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/isomerase messenger ribonucleic acids during baboon pregnancy

The present study determined whether the elevation in oestrogen, which occurs with advancing baboon pregnancy, is associated with a developmental increase in expression of the placental enzymes catalysing progesterone synthesis. The mRNA levels for P-450 cholesterol side-chain cleavage (P-450 scc ), adrenodoxin, and Δ 5 -3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/isomerase (3β-HSD) were assessed by Northern blot analysis in placental syncytiotrophoblasts isolated from baboons in early (days 58-65), mid- (days 97-113) and late (days 161-175), gestation (term=184 days). Placental villous tissue was dispersed and subjected to 50 per cent Percoll density gradient centrifugation to obtain primarily syncytiotrophoblasts. Mean (± s.E.) P-450 scc mRNA level, expressed as a ratio of β-actin in the syncytiotrophoblast-rich fraction, progressively increased with advancing pregnancy to a level in late gestation (1.81 ± 0.28 arbitrary units) that was approximately sixfold (P<0.01) greater than in early gestation (0.31 ± 0.08) and approximately twofold greater (P<0.05) than in mid-gestation (0.97 ± 0.24). In contrast adrenodoxin mRNA expression was similar at early (0.97), mid- (1.14 ± 0.12) and late (1.16 ± 0.13) gestation. Syncytiotrophoblast 3β-HSD mRNA levels also remained constant in early (1.69), mid- (1.89 ± 0.41) and late (1.34 ± 0.41) gestation. On the basis of these findings, we propose that villous syncytiotrophoblasts undergo functional/biochemical differentiation, resulting in a coordinated upregulation of specific components of the steroid biosynthetic pathway required for progesterone biosynthesis during the course of primate pregnancy.
Crown ether mediated cadmium halide dimers and polymers

The reactions of cadmium halides with the 15-membered macrocyclic crown ethers, 15-crown-5 and benzo-15-crown-5, have been carried out and six new complexes have been isolated and structurally characterized. Metal to ligand stoichiometries of 1:1, 2:1, 3:1 and 3:2 have been observed with a variety of different formulations. Examples of charge separated ion pairs ([(NH 4 )(benzo-15-crown-5) 2 ] 2 [Cd 2 I 6 ]), halogen bridged monomers, dimers or polymers ([Cd(15-crown-5)(OHMe)(μ-Br)CdBr 3 ], [Cd(15-crown-5)(μ-Br) 2 CdBr(μ-Br)] 2 (isolated from the same reaction mixture) and [(CdCl 2 ) 2 CdCl 2 (15-crown-5)] n ), and hydrogen bonded finite chains or polymers ([(Cd(OH 2 ) 2 (15-crown-5)][CdI 3 (OH 2 )] 2 ·2(15-crown-5)·2CH 3 CN and [CdI 2 (OH 2 ) 2 (THF)]·benzo-15-crown-5) have been isolated. Three different types of 15-crown-5 coordination modes have been observed in these complexes. In-cavity coordination resulting in pentagonal bipyramidal geometries about Cd 2+ was observed in [(CdCl 2 ) 2 CdCl 2 (15-crown-5)] n , [Cd(15-crown-5)(OHMe)(μ-Br)CdBr 3 ], and [Cd(OH 2 ) 2 (15-crown-5)][CdI 3 (OH 2 )] 2 ·2(15-crown-5)·2CH 3 CN, [Cd(15-crown-5)(μ-Br) 2 CdBr(μ-Br)] 2 displays out-of-cavity coordination with one etheric donor distorted into an axial position of a distorted pentagonal bipyramid. The third coordination mode is secondary sphere coordination via hydrogen bonding which is observed for [Cd(OH 2 ) 2 (15-crown-5)][CdI 3 (OH 2 )] 2 ·2(15-crown-5)·2CH 3 CN. The good fit of Cd 2+ within the cavity of 15-crown-5 results in shorter bonding contacts and a more narrow distribution in CdO values (2.273(7)-2.344(6) A) than observed for cadmium halide complexes of 18-crown-6 .
In vitro cyclic tensile testing of combined peripheral and core flexor tenorrhaphy suture techniques

Abstract Early tenorrhaphy mobilization increases repair site strength and decreases adhesions. Preliminary unpublished data suggest that early active mobilization improves clinical outcome compared with traditional passive motion protocols. We loaded cadaver flexor profundus tendon repairs to 8.0 kg (78.4 N) for up to 5,000 cycles to simulate the loads and cycle number of our active flexor tendon rehabilitation protocol. 3–0 Ethibond (Ethicon, Somerville, NJ) and 6–0 Prolene (Surgi-pro; US Surgical, Norwalk, CT) were used for core and peripheral sutures, respectively. Four different groups were tested: 2-strand Tajima core suture with either a running interlocking (2R) or a Silfverskiold cross-stitch (2S) peripheral suture and 4-strand Tajima plus horizontal mattress core suture with either a running interlocking (4R) or a Silfverskiold peripheral suture (4S). Repairs failed in the suture midsubstance or at the knot. There was considerable variability within groups and no significant difference in the number of cycles to failure between the 2R, 4R, and 2S repairs, which failed after 2 ± 2, 304 ± 249, and 560 ± 987 cycles, respectively. All 4S repairs were intact after 5,000 cycles. Our data suggest that flexor tenorrhaphy with the 4S repair can withstand the cyclic loads we estimate would be present during an active rehabilitation protocol. (J Hand Surg 2002;27A:518-524. Copyright © 2002 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.)
Mourning as a family secret.

Abstract This paper describes two families whose deep need for mourning, although covertly known to each family member, was not overtly acknowledged within the group. This “dysfunctional secret” contributed both to the development of symptoms in one child in each family and to progressive intrafamilial alienation. Treatment directed specifically toward the delineation and resolution of these secrets led to significant improvement.
The 2010 Thoracic Surgery Residents Association workforce survey report: a view from the trenches.

Background Workforce estimates suggest 11% of general surgery residents are considering careers in cardiothoracic (CT) surgery. In an effort to identify areas for programmatic improvement, we examined trends in thoracic surgery residents' perspectives on training and employment. Methods Results from the 2010 Thoracic Surgery Residents Association workforce survey were analyzed. The survey was administered to all trainees in North America during the annual in-service exam. Longitudinal trends from 2006 to 2010 are reported. Results Of 299 respondents, 76% (228 of 299) were US citizens. The most common determinants in choosing CT surgery were types of cases (123 of 299, 41%) and mentorship (95 of 299, 32%). Sixty-five percent (193 of 299) would recommend CT surgery to potential trainees. While 81% (242 of 299) felt they would be adequately trained in their program, 39% (118 of 299) planned additional fellowship training. Only 23% (70 of 299) felt the 80-hour work week had a positive impact on training. Of residents seeking jobs, 68% (62 of 92) received 2 or more job interviews and 70% (69 of 99) more than 1 job offer. Seventeen percent (16 of 92) had no offers. While 45% (51 of 114) reported still searching for employment, 20% (23 of 114) had accepted private practice positions, 25% (29 of 114) academic positions, and 6% (7 of 114) fellowship positions. Education-related debt was greater than $100,000 in 46% (140 of 299) and greater than $200,000 in 17% (52 of 299). From 2007 to 2010, CT residents reporting debt greater than $200,000 rose from 8% to 17%. Accepted fellowship training positions dropped to 6% in 2010 compared with 13% and 15% in 2008 and 2009, respectively. Conclusions Diminished CT job opportunities remain a concern. There are concerning trends in debt accrual and perceptions of work-hour restrictions on quality of training. These data justify further investigation into areas of improvement in CT training.
On the asymptotic expansion of Mellin transforms

The asymptotic behavior of the Mellin transform $M[f;x]$ is studied as $x \to + \infty $, and it is shown that the Mellin transform of a certain class of asymptotic sequences $\{ \phi _n (t)\} (t \to \infty )$ yields another asymptotic sequence $\{ M[\phi _n ;x]\} (x \to \infty )$. An analogue of Watson’s lemma is also established; i.e., undercertain circumstances, the asymptotic expansion of $f(t)(t \to \infty )$ induces an asymptotic expansion of $M[f;x](x \to \infty )$.
Inhibition of pyruvate dehydrogenase and pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphate phosphatase by glyoxylate

Abstract The overall reaction catalyzed by the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex from rat epididymal fat tissue is inhibited by glyoxylate at concentrations greater than 10 μ m . The inhibition is competitive with respect to pyruvate; Ki was found to be 80 μ m . Qualitatively similar results were observed using pyruvate dehydrogenase from rat liver, kidney, and heart. Glyoxylate also inhibits the pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphate phosphatase from rat epididymal fat, with the inhibition being readily detectable using 50 μ m glyoxylate. These effects of glyoxylate are largely reversed by millimolar concentrations of thiols (especially cysteine) because such compounds form relatively stable adducts with glyoxylate. Presumably these inhibitions by low levels of glyoxylate had not been previously observed, because others have used high concentrations of thiols in pyruvate dehydrogenase assays. Since the inhibitory effects are seen with suspected physiological concentrations, it seems likely that glyoxylate partially controls the activity of pyruvate dehydrogenase in vivo.
Effect of trimazosin on serum lipid profiles in hypertensive patients

Abnormalities in the serum lipid profile correlate strongly with the presence and severity of atherosclerosis. Increases in serum lipids and a reduction in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol have been demonstrated following treatment with some beta blockers and diuretics, either alone or in combination. A new alpha-1-adrenoceptor antagonist, trimazosin, was studied to determine its effects on serum lipids. Ninety-six hypertensive patients were randomly assigned in double-blind fashion to trimazosin or placebo for 8 weeks. Trimazosin was associated with a significant reduction (p less than or equal to 0.01) in total cholesterol when compared with the placebo group. This effect was seen in all patients regardless of whether or not they were taking a diuretic concomitantly. In addition, a 9-month, double-blind parallel comparison was made of trimazosin and propranolol. Trimazosin was found to be superior to propranolol in its effect on HDL cholesterol and the HDL/total cholesterol ratio. These studies have demonstrated that, in contrast to placebo and propranolol, trimazosin lowers total serum cholesterol without undesirable effects on other serum lipid fractions. When polythiazide is given concomitantly, it diminishes the favorable effects of trimazosin and accentuates the opposite, adverse effects of propranolol.
Molecular imaging of topically applied SERS nanoparticles for guiding tumor resection

To quantitatively image a panel of disease biomarkers for guiding tumor resection, we have developed a wide-area raster-scanned imaging device to rapidly image molecularly targeted SERS nanoparticles topically applied on fresh excised tissues.
Effects of Zeolite Application on Rice Yield, Nitrogen Recovery, and Nitrogen Use Efficiency

Abstract The unique cation exchange, adsorption, hydration–dehydration, and catalytic properties of natural zeolites and their abundance have promoted their use in a wide variety of agricultural processes as soil amendments, slow‐release fertilizers, and other materials. To investigate the feasibility of using a natural clinoptilolite to enhance rice grain yield, nitrogen (N) recovery and N use efficiency, an experiment was conducted in a coarse‐textured rice field in the Guilan province of Iran. Three levels of 8, 16, or 24 tons of zeolite ha−1 were incorporated into the soil with and without 60 kg N ha−1 as urea, and their effects on the grain and straw yields, available K, apparent N recovery, N use efficiency, and some soil properties were determined. Results indicated a significant positive effect of treatments on the grain yield, straw, and tiller numbers of rice. All levels of zeolite with N showed a significant increase in grain yield compared with 60 kg N ha−1 and control treatment. Zeolite appli...
Increased dietary salt accelerates chronic allograft nephropathy in rats.

Increased dietary salt accelerates chronic allograft nephropathy in rats. Background Chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN), a major problem in renal transplantation, is related to both alloantigen-dependent and -independent processes. Because dietary salt intake modulated glomerular production of transforming growth factor-β, which has been shown to play an important role in CAN, we hypothesized that dietary salt would directly enhance renal injury in a rodent model of CAN. Methods Dietary NaCl was increased from 1.0% (normal) to 8.0% in a group of Fisher/Lewis rats 25 days following orthotopic renal transplantation and was continued until 16 weeks after transplantation. Results Blood pressure, which was recorded using radiotelemetry in the first eight-weeks post-transplantation, did not differ between the groups, but allograft recipients on the 8.0% NaCl diet rapidly demonstrated increased urinary albumin excretion. Renal function determined by dynamic functional imaging was worse in allograft recipients on the 8.0% NaCl diet by six weeks following transplantation. Histologic examination at 16 weeks confirmed a significant increase in allograft damage in the 8.0% NaCl group compared with allografts from rats on 1.0% NaCl diet. These findings included glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial injury that consisted of fibrosis, tubular atrophy and dilation, intratubular casts, and tubular epithelial cell damage. Small arteries and arterioles did not show evidence of damage from hypertension or other abnormality. Conclusions In this model of CAN, renal allograft dysfunction preceded hypertension and was accelerated significantly by an increase in dietary salt.
Asymmetric effects of thalamic stimulation on rate of speech.

Abstract Analysis of speech samples elicited and taped during stereotaxic surgery revealed that stimulation of the left, but not the right, ventrolateral nucleus of the thalamus was associated with increased durations of verbal responses on correct naming. The findings suggest that even elementary motor speech functions such as speaking rate and articulatory accuracy are asymmetrically organized at the level of the thalamus.
Invited Paper-Regenerative Beam Extraction

This work is a review of regenerative beam extraction for synchrocyclotrons and isochronous cyclotrons. The linear and nonlinear theories of the system for synchrocyclotrons are briefly reviewed. The problems for the extraction efficiency and external beam quality are discussed. A theory for isochronous cyclotrons is given. Finally, present operating features of the systems and future prospects are summarized.
Biochemical characterization and posttranslational modification of AlgU, a regulator of stress response in Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Abstract AlgU is homologous to the extreme heat shock sigma factor σE from enteric bacteria. In this work, AlgU was overproduced and purified and its function investigated at the biochemical level. AlgU was shown to associate with RNA polymerase and direct transcription of a target promoter. AlgU also exhibited multiple isoforms detected by 2D gel analysis. Treatment with a Ser/Thr phosphatase shifted the distribution of isoforms towards the basic side on 2D gels, suggesting that posttranslational modifications of AlgU may involve phosphorylation. The underphosphorylated forms of AlgU copurified with RNA polymerase. It is possible that phosphorylation affects AlgU activity or its stability.
Triage of Patients Consulted for ICU Admission During Times of ICU-Bed Shortage.

Background: The demand for specialized medical services such as critical care often exceeds availability, thus rationing of i ntensive care unit (ICU) beds commonly leads to difficult triage decisions. Many factors can play a role in the decision to admit a patient to the ICU, including severity of illness and the need for specific treatments limited to these units. Although triage decisions would be based solely on patient and institutional level factors, it is likely that intensivists make different decisions when there are fewer ICU beds available. The objective of this study is to evaluate the characteristics of patients referred for ICU admission during times of limited beds availability. Methods: A single center, prospective, observational study was conducted among consecutive patients in whom an evaluation for ICU admission was requested during times of ICU overcrowding, which comprised the months of April and May 2014. Results: A total of 95 patients were evaluated for possible ICU admission during the study period. Their mean APACHE-II score was 16.8 (median 16, range 3 - 36). Sixty-four patients (67.4%) were accepted to ICU, 18 patients (18.9%) were triaged to SDU, and 13 patients (13.7%) were admitted to hospital wards. ICU had no beds available 24 times (39.3%) during the study period, and in 39 opportunities (63.9%) only one bed was available. Twenty-four patients (25.3%) were evaluated when there were no available beds, and eight of those patients (33%) were admitted to ICU. A total of 17 patients (17.9%) died in the hospital, and 15 (23.4%) expired in ICU. Conclusion: ICU beds are a scarce resource for which demand periodically exceeds supply, raising concerns about mechanisms for resource allocation during times of limited beds availability. At our institution, triage decisions were not related to the number of available beds in ICU, age, or gender. A linear correlation was observed between severity of illness, expressed by APACHE-II scores, and the likelihood of being admitted to ICU. Alternative locations outside the ICU in which care for critically ill patients could be delivered should be considered during times of extreme ICU-bed shortage. J Clin Med Res. 2014;6(6):463-468 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jocmr1939w
The "Two-Step" Exercise Electrocardiogram in Functional Heart Disturbances and in Organic Heart Disease: The Use of Ergotamine Tartrate

Patients with functional cardiac disturbances, including chest pain, may present electrocardiographic abnormalities (pronounced RS-T depressions and T-wave inversions) after the "2-step" exercise test which are indistinguishable from those found in organic heart disease. Ergotamine tartrate was employed intravenously in conjunction with "2-step" tests in 10 cases for the objective differentiation of functional from organic heart involvement. However, ergotamine was found to be contraindicated as a routine for this purpose because of its anginal-provoking properties. We have substituted dihydroergecornine (DHO-180), a newer, safer ergot alkaloid, in our further investigation of this problem.
Sequential picosecond isomerizations in a photochromic ruthenium sulfoxide complex triggered by pump-repump-probe spectroscopy.

The complex [Ru(bpy)2(bpSO)](PF6)2, where bpy is 2,2′-bipydine and bpSO is 1,2-bis(phenylsulfinyl)ethane, exhibits three distinct isomers which are accessible upon metal-to-ligand charge-transfer (MLCT) irradiation. This complex and its parent, [Ru(bpy)2(bpte)](PF6)2, where bpte is 1,2-bis(phenylthio)ethane, have been synthesized and characterized by UV–visible spectroscopy, NMR, X-ray crystallography, and femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy. A novel method of 2-color Pump-Repump-Probe spectroscopy has been employed to investigate all three isomers of the bis-sulfoxide complex. This method allows for observation of the isomerization dynamics of sequential isomerizations of each sulfoxide from MLCT irradiation of the S,S-bonded complex to ultimately form the O,O-bonded metastable complex. One-dimensional (1-D) and two-dimensional (2-D) (COSY, NOESY, and TOCSY) 1H NMR data show the thioether and ground state S,S-bonded sulfoxide complexes to be rigorously C2 symmetric and are consistent with the c...
Efficacy and safety of gemtuzumab ozogamicin in patients with poor-prognosis acute myeloid leukemia.

The objective of this work was to determine the safety and efficacy of gemtuzumab ozogamicin in patients with poor prognosis acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Patients with the following diagnoses/characteristics were treated with 1-3 infusions of gemtuzumab ozogamicin at a dose of 9 mg/m 2 : (1) relapse of AML h 6 months of first complete remission (CR); (2) AML refractory to chemotherapy at initial induction or at first relapse; (3) AML in second or greater relapse; (4) myeloid blast crisis of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML); (5) untreated patients S 70 years or S 55 years with abnormal cytogenetics (excluding inv 16, t(15;17) and t(8;21)) and/or an antecedent hematologic disorder; (6) refractory anemia with excess blasts in transformation (RAEBT). Forty-three patients, ages 19-84 (mean 62), were treated, including 7 patients with untreated AML age >70 years, 2 with untreated RAEBT, 14 with AML first salvage (first remission 0-6 months), 15 with AML S second salvage and 14 with myeloid blast phase of CML. Th...
Surface chemistry, pore sizes and adsorption properties of activated carbon fibers and precursors treated with ammonia

A series of activated carbon fibers (ACFs) were produced by treatment with ammonia to yield a basic surface. The micropore sizes of these chemically modified fibers were determined with nitrogen adsorption experiments and they were shown to increase with increasing activation time and temperature. The types of groups present were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and temperature programmed desorption (TPD). The adsorption isotherms of an acidic gas (HCl) show a great improvement in capacity over an untreated acidic fiber. The adsorption is completely reversible and must therefore involve enhanced physical adsorption instead of chemisorption. This demonstrates that ACFs can be tailored to selectively remove a specific contaminant based on the chemical modification of their pore surfaces.
Cardiac hypertrophy in copper-deficient rats is owing to increased mitochondria.

Dietary copper depletion results in cardiac hypertrophy and ultrastructural alterations. The objective of this study was to determine the components that contribute to cardiac enlargement. Two groups (n = 4) of male, weaning, Sprague-Dawley rats were fed ad libitum with copper-adequate or copper-deficient diets for five weeks. Cross sectional transmission electron micrographs from both groups were evaluated using image analysis to quantify absolute area occupied by myocyte, mitochondria, myofibril, and other intracellular material. Copper-deficient rats had larger myocytes, increased area of mitochondria, and increased ratio of mitochondria :myofibril as well as mitochondria:myocyte. Copper deficiency did not change the absolute area occupied by myofibrils. These data suggested that increase in the absolute mitochondria area is the major contributory factor to the cardiac hypertrophy in copper deficiency. Under the conditions used, myofibril has minimal role toward contributing to the hypertrophic state. The pathology reported resembles human forms of genetic mitochondrial cardiomyopathies. The copper-deficient rat may be a useful model to investigate the underlying biochemical or molecular responses when peptides of enzymes are deleted.
Direct visualization of stationary interference patterns of several running whispering gallery modes

We report on the direct observation of stationary interference patterns of several running optical whispering gallery modes in an experiment with a fused silica microsphere immersed into a dye solution.
Pharmacologic management of preterm labor

D espite concerted efforts toward prevention, accurate and p r o m p t diagnosis, and effective t rea tment o f p re t e rm labor, the incidence of p r e t e rm birth has not decreased over the last several decades. In fact, a l though the search for a highly effective, well tolerated tocolytic has been actively pursued, data f rom the United States indicate that the incidence o f p re t e rm birth has actually increased, f rom 9.4% to 10.7% between 1981 and 1989.1 This review will discuss the mechanism o f action o f various tocolytic drugs, some o f the problems inherent to clinical studies o f these agents, and the clinical efficacy and side effects o f commonly used tocolytics such as betaadrenergic agonists, magnesium sulfate, and prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors. Agents that have been less well investigated as tocolytics, including calcium channel blockers, oxytocin recep tor antagonists, and potassium channel stimulators, will also be discussed, but more briefly. P re te rm birth remains the leading cause of perinatal mortali ty and morbidity among nonanomalous infants. In a mult icenter study o f 33,401 neonates, 83% of neonatal deaths occurred in infants born at less than 37 weeks' gestation, and 66% of neonatal deaths occurred in infants born at less than 29 weeks' gestation. 2 However , the neonatal survival rate after 30 weeks' comple ted gestation is more than 90%. Therefore , a t tempts at inhibiting p re t e rm labor between 20 and 29 weeks' gestation are directed at improving the neonatal survival rate and reducing morbidi ty incidence, whereas at tempts at inhibition between 30 and 36 weeks are mainly directed toward reducing neonatal morbidity incidence. 3 In an assessment o f the effect of gestational age on neonatal morbidity, the incidence of respiratory distress was increased until 36 comple ted weeks o f gestation, whereas other
OUTFLOWS AND DARK BANDS AT ARCADE-LIKE ACTIVE REGION CORE BOUNDARIES

Observations from the EUV Imaging Spectrometer (EIS) on board Hinode have revealed outflows and non-thermal line broadening in low intensity regions at the edges of active regions (ARs). We use data from Hinode's EIS, Solar Dynamic Observatory's Atmospheric Imaging Assembly and Helioseismic and Magnetic Imager, and the Transition Region and Coronal Explorer instrument to investigate the boundaries of arcade-like AR cores for NOAA ARs 11112, 10978, and 9077. A narrow, low intensity region that is observed at the core's periphery as a dark band shows outflows and increased spectral line broadening. This dark band is found to exist for days and appears between the bright coronal loop structures of different coronal topologies. We find a case where the dark band region is formed between the magnetic field from emerging flux and the field of the pre-existing flux. A magnetic field extrapolation indicates that this dark band is coincident with the spine lines or magnetic separatrices in the extrapolated field. This occurs over unipolar regions where the brightened coronal field is separated in connectivity and topology. This separation does not appear to be infinitesimal and an initial estimate of the minimum distance of separation is found to be ≈1.5-3.5 Mm.
Spiral Air Bubbles in Ice

ANY mechanism for producing Archimedes spirals on flat surfaces is interesting because of the great importance attached to these shapes in studies of crystal growth. When spiral figures appear on etched crystal surfaces, they are usually interpreted as dissolution structures related to screw dislocations. Spiral shapes on some electrolytically etched metal surfaces are not easily explained in this way, however, because they cross grain boundaries and are spiral troughs rather than the spiral terraces predicted from the screw dislocation mechanism1–3. It has been suggested that these spiral figures on metals, which are noted to form only in very special circumstances, may be the formation of a new phase, perhaps an oxide of a salt1–3. The chemistry at the etching surfaces is very complex, and the spirals remain a problem.
Delamination of layered structures on elastic foundation

This study presents an interface fracture mechanics analysis of delamination of a layered beam resting on a Winkler elastic foundation subject to general mechanical loads. A crack tip element on elastic foundation model is established first, through which, two concentrated forces existing at the crack tip are determined in closed-form. Then total energy release rate of the crack can be expressed in term of these two forces. By using available numerical results in the literature, the phase angle of the total energy release rate is also obtained. To verify the validity and accuracy of the solutions, debonding of a bonded overlay from the base structure resting on a Winkler elastic foundation is analyzed using the present solution. Comparisons with the baseline results obtained by finite element analysis suggest that the present analytical solution provides an excellent estimation of the total energy release rate and its phase angle for interface cracks in layered structure on elastic foundation. This study provides an approximated analysis of the debonding of a thin overlay debonding from the concrete pavement, where the effect of the base structure is simplified by a Winkler elastic foundation. This solution can also be used to analyze other similar delamination problems, such as local delamination in laminated composites, and face sheet delimitation in sandwich beams.
Sacred realism: religion and the imagination in modern Spanish narrative

Sacred realism: religion and the imagination in modern Spanish narrative, by Noel Valis, New Haven, Yale University Press, 2010, 356 pp., ISBN 978-0-300-15234-0 A diferencia de lo que sostiene la m...
NMR studies of aluminum speciation in tellurite glasses

Abstract We report results from solid state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies of the aluminum coordination environments in TaAl tellurite glasses containing from 60 to 95 cation-% TeO 2 . These data show the presence of 4-, 5- and 6-coordinate aluminum in all glasses. The aluminum speciation is independent of the Ta/Al ratio, but is affected by the TeO 2 content. In TeO 2 -rich glasses, aluminum is primarily in octahedral coordination. For glasses with smaller amounts of TeO 2 , the aluminum speciation shifts towards a larger tetrahedral population. The percentage of 5-coordinate aluminum remains constant in all TaAl tellurite glasses. The average coordination number of aluminum is also affected by the thermal history of the glasses, as this number increases after annealing of quenched glasses, consistent with a coordination change for aluminum during the liquid to glass transition.
Potential for unnecessary patient exposure from the use of storage phosphor imaging systems

It is possible to use storage phosphor radiography (SR) devices in a manner that results in excess exposure to the patient without the operators knowledge. Because these SR systems have an automatic correction for the final optical density (OD) of the image, the technologist and radiologist will not be able to use excessive blackness of the image as a sign of overexposure. Tests reported here demonstrate that it is possible to obtain images of a chest phantom that appear acceptable with a 32 times difference in exposure (maximal exposure .86 R). It is possible to obtain exposures of a pelvis phantom that appear acceptable up to the tube limit of our machine (4.8 R). Tests of the Fuji AC-1 demonstrate that it will accept a much wider range of exposures than the AGFA ADC prototype which permits only a 7 times difference in exposure before the image is degraded.
The role of cryogenics in the gyroscope experiment

The design of apparatus being built to measure the general relativistic precession of gyroscopes in earth orbit is discussed, with emphasis on the role of cryogenics. Operation with a superconducting rotor is crucial in that it provides the only known way of attaining the required angular resolution of 0.001 arc-sec. Operation at low temperatures also provides the star tracker, to which the gyros are referenced, with excellent null stability. The boil-off gas from the large helium dewar is used to operate the vehicle in a drag-free mode which is expected to improve the gyro performance by a factor of ten. The dewar system is compatible with a wide range of experiments requiring temperatures as low as 2K in space.
Glomerular Disease and Urinary Sézary Cells in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphomas

We report three cases of biopsy-documented renal glomerular disease occurring in patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. One patient had immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy and another had membranous nephropathy. The remaining patient had an immune complex glomerulonephritis without immunofluorescent evidence of IgA, but with mesangial deposits and a clinical course notable for stable renal function, minimal proteinuria, and episodic gross hematuria of renal origin. These three cases, along with IgA nephropathy in two of the four previously reported cases, suggest a possible association between cutaneous T-cell lymphoma and this glomerular lesion. In addition, Sezary cells were observed in the urine of two patients, one without evidence of glomerular disease. The prognostic value of this new observation is unknown.
NF-κB AND ZBP-89 REGULATE MMP-3 EXPRESSION VIA A POLYMORPHIC SITE IN THE PROMOTER

A 5T/6T polymorphism in the human MMP-3 promoter affects gene expression and impacts the risk and/or severity of various pathological conditions. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) in human fibroblasts homozygous for the 6T site demonstrate that it is bound by NF-κB and ZBP-89 transcription factors in its native chromatin. ChIP in COS-1 cells transfected with plasmids containing the 5T and 6T sites in the context of 2 kb of the MMP-3 promoter showed that NF-κB p50 binds preferentially to the 6T site, while more ZBP-89 binding is detected to the 5T site. Over-expressed ZBP-89 increased transcription from the 5T promoter but not from the 6T, while NF-κB decreased transcription from both promoters, even in the presence of excess ZBP-89. A model is suggested in which the physiological impact of the polymorphism is dependent on the relative levels and activities of these competing factors in various cell types and conditions.
Integrating Evidence into Clinical Information Systems for Nursing Decision Support

Purpose To illustrate approaches for providing decision support for evidence-based nursing practice through integration of evidence into clinical information systems (CISs) with examples from our experience at Columbia University Medical Center.
THE EFFICACY OF MARITAL AND FAMILY THERAPY: AN EMPIRICAL OVERVIEW, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Based primarily on the contributions to this Special Issue of JMFT, this article provides an overview of the empirical research on the efficacy of marital and family therapy for the following disorders and problems: schizophrenia; affective (mood) disorders; slected externalizing, internalizing, and pervasive developmental disorders of childhood; adolescent conduct disorder; marital distress and the prevention of divorce; alcoholism; adult and adolescent drug abuse; and various chronic adult, adolescent, and childhood physical disorders. Convincing scientific evidence supports the efficacy of broadly defined marital and family therapy for the treatment of many disorders, as well as its superiority to standard and individual treatments for certain disorders and populations. We conclude with recommendations for future research as well as for collaborative initiatives between marital/family therapists and other professionals working in the marriage and family field.
A novel intermediate stage in the transition between short- and long-term facilitation in the sensory to motor neuron synapse of aplysia

Abstract A major difference between short- and long-term memory is that long-term memory is dependent on new protein synthesis. Long-term memory can be further subdivided into a transient, initial phase that is readily susceptible to disruption and a later, more stable and persistent stage. To analyze this transition on the cellular level, we have examined the steps whereby short-term facilitation is converted to a long-term form in the sensorimotor connection of the Aplysia gill-withdrawal reflex. We found that stable long-term facilitation (at 24 hr) requires a higher concentration (100 nM) of serotonin (5-HT) than does short-term facilitation (10 nM). By using low concentrations of 5-HT, which do not produce long-term facilitation, we now have been able to explore the intermediate phases between the short- and long-term processes. By this means we have uncovered a new transient phase that involves three mechanistically different mechanisms—covalent modification, translation, and transcription—each of which can be recruited as a function of the concentration of 5-HT.
The Newest Synthesis: Understanding the Interplay of Evolutionary and Ecological Dynamics

The effect of ecological change on evolution has long been a focus of scientific research. The reverse—how evolutionary dynamics affect ecological traits—has only recently captured our attention, however, with the realization that evolution can occur over ecological time scales. This newly highlighted causal direction and the implied feedback loop—eco-evolutionary dynamics—is invigorating both ecologists and evolutionists and blurring the distinction between them. Despite some recent relevant studies, the importance of the evolution-to-ecology pathway across systems is still unknown. Only an extensive research effort involving multiple experimental approaches—particularly long-term field experiments—over a variety of ecological communities will provide the answer.