cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rigor and Reproducibility in Analysis of Vascular Calcification.

Clinical and preclinical studies of cardiovascular calcification often require interpretation of images from histopathology, computed tomography, intravascular ultrasound, and positron emission tomography. To avoid potential pitfalls in biological inferences, investigators should know what happens to data in image processing algorithms, the limitations of cross-sectional images in studying mechanostability, and how smoothing algorithms can mask partial-volume artifacts in positron emission tomography. Years ago, a head-on collision sent a motorcyclist to intensive care with multiple limb fractures. A cardiologist was paged to evaluate the unconscious patient for a dangerously low value of cardiac index, suggesting severe cardiac injury. On evaluation, pulse, blood pressure, and cardiac output were normal despite the extremely low cardiac index. How could that be? It turned out that this low value was the result of a common error: failure to scrutinize adjustments in processed data. Cardiac index is a type of processed data, which is derived from cardiac output divided by body surface area, which is, in turn, derived from height and weight. On assessing this adjustment, the cardiologist found that the patient’s weight included the casts on his arms and leg. Although it is obvious that casts do not require perfusion, this is an example of blindly following protocol, in this case resulting in a gross overestimate of weight, overestimate of body surface area, and underestimate of cardiac index. The moral of the story is that blind adherence to adjustment protocols may cause clinical errors. Does this happen in research? Corrections, adjustments, and technical limitations are common in imaging of preclinical and clinical vascular calcification, such as x-ray computed tomography (CT), intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), and, fused positron emission tomography (PET)-CT using the bone-seeking 18F-fluoride PET tracer. There is growing interest in using such imaging methods to infer molecular and cellular mechanisms of vascular calcification. However, colleagues …
A Technique for the Automatic Shaping of Escape and Avoidance Behavior in the Operant Conditioning Chamber

An apparatus is described which has proven effective in establishing shock escape and avoidance in the albino rat. The device, which restricts the size of the operant conditioning chamber, leads to rapid acquisition of the bar press operant with no direct “shaping” required of the investigator. The implications of the procedure for operant conditioning research are discussed.
Screen printing of flexible piezoelectric based device on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and paper for touch and force sensing applications

Abstract A fully printed piezoelectric based touch sensor device has been successfully fabricated on flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and paper substrates using screen printing technique. The device, consisting of a 4 × 4 array of printed sensors and interconnect lines, was fabricated using silver (Ag) ink. Screen printed polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), as a piezoelectric layer, was sandwiched between the printed Ag top and bottom electrode metallization layers. A linear relationship between the sensor response and varying applied forces to the device was obtained through finite element analysis (FEA) method simulation. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was performed to verify the formation of the β-phase crystals in the PVDF layer during the curing process. The effective polarization of the printed piezoelectric layer was analyzed using capacitance-voltage analysis. A sensitivity of 1.2 V/N and 0.3 V/N, with correlation coefficient of 0.9954 and 0.9859, was obtained for the PET and paper based printed touch sensors, respectively. The piezoelectric-voltage analysis demonstrated that the printed sensors can be used for both touch and force based applications.
It takes two: A replication

Abstract In their original study, Zaki, Bolger, and Ochsner (2008) suggest that interpersonal factors may explain the lack of correspondence between affective empathy and empathic accuracy in previous work. Specifically, Zaki et al. found evidence that perceivers’ affective empathy may only be related to empathic accuracy when the expressivity of the target is high. We attempted a high powered replication of this original study, but did not replicate the original result. In our study, empathic accuracy was not significantly predicted by either perceiver affective empathy or target expressivity, nor was it predicted by their interaction. We discuss differences in measures, sample, and stimuli that may have contributed to discrepancies between our results and those of the original study and theoretical implications.
The social media see-saw: Positive and negative influences on adolescents’ affective well-being:

Social media use is nearly universal among US-based teens. How do daily interactions with social apps influence adolescents’ affective well-being? Survey self-reports (n = 568) portray social media use as predominantly positive. Exploratory principal component analysis further indicates that positive and negative emotions form orthogonal response components. In-depth interviews with a sub-sample of youth (n = 26), selected for maximum variation, reveal that affect experiences can be organized across four functional dimensions. Relational interactions contribute to both closeness and disconnection; self-expression facilitates affirmation alongside concern about others’ judgments; interest-driven exploration confers inspiration and distress; and browsing leads to entertainment and boredom, as well as admiration and envy. All interviewees describe positive and negative affect experiences across multiple dimensions. Analyses suggest the relationship between social technology usage and well-being—whether enhan...
Building a Culture of Health in Our Changing Climate.

An editorial is presented which addresses the authors' views about the construction of a culture of health in America in relation to climate change, and it mentions the work of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), population health in the U.S., and climate change adaptation and mitigation. Health promotion and well-being are assessed, as well as the delivery of high-quality health services and the RWJF's Health and Climate Change Landscape Assessment.
Three-Dimensional Electroanatomical Mapping to Guide Transseptal Catheterization

Transseptal catheterization is generally a routine and common technique utilized as part of various cardiac electrophysiology procedures. But at times this can be met with specific challenges often times due to anatomical variations in certain patients, particularly those with cardiac anomalies. In this regard, the use of visual aids such as intracardiac echocardiography have significantly improved the safety and efficacy of the transseptal puncture 1 . This manuscript illustrates a case in which the use of 3-D electroanatomical mapping in turn used as an adjunct imaging tool further facilitated transseptal catheterization to guide mapping and ablation of a left atrial tachycardia in a young patient with structural heart disease.
Vertical Distribution of Diverse Phytoplankton Communities in the Central Pacific

Southeast of Hawaii in the central Pacific, phytoplankton samples were taken on three transects. An average of over 20,500 cells/liter, including flagellates, was found for all depths counted, with diatoms, dinoflagellates, and coccolithophorids together accounting (in about equal numbers) for half that number. Coccolithophorids were dominant at some depths. The profile of cell numbers with depth showed a subsurface maximum with decreasing numbers at greater depths. The empty cell counts followed the same profile, with counts that were almost an order of magnitude smaller, probably indicating much recycling within the euphotic zone. Diversity indices revealed the complexity of the phytoplankton communities on these transects, and the Shannon Weaver index (H′) summed over all depths for each station appeared to approach an asymptote in most cases. Transect C (northeast of the other sites) showed a deeper mixed layer and greater diversity.
Examples of Boundary Crisis Phenomenon in Structural Dynamics

The term “crisis” was introduced by Grebogi et al. [1] to describe certain sudden qualitative changes in chaotic dynamics of nonlinear dynamical systems as some control parameter is varied. These changes occur when a chaotic attractor collides with a coexisting unstable fixed point or periodic orbit, or its stable manifold. This collision may result in i) sudden changes in the size of chaotic attractors, ii) sudden appearances of chaotic attractors, or iii) sudden destructions of chaotic attractors along with their basins.
Promoting SBIRT Training for Social Work Students Across Field Settings

We report on our experience of implementing an interprofessional social work Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) training program in which didactic content was integrat...
Complications After Heart Transplantation in Adults: an Update

The goal of this review article is to highlight our understanding of potential complications after heart transplantation. We aim to discuss recent advances within the field that directly impact the management of heart transplant recipients. Our target audiences include cardiologists, emergency medicine, and internal medicine providers. Heart transplantation remains definitive therapy for end-stage heart failure. Complications after transplant can be divided in to post-operative, early, and late. Complications are related to the differing physiology of the denervated transplant heart as well as the immunosuppressive medications necessitated to maintain graft function. These include primary graft dysfunction, allograft rejection, chronic renal insufficiency, cardiac allograft vasculopathy, and malignancy. The anticipation and management of complications in patients after receiving a heart transplant involve a comprehensive understanding of the differences in the transplanted heart and effects of immunosuppressive therapies.
Temperature dependence of the self-reaction of CH3O2 radicals

The rate constants for the reaction CH3O2 + CH3O2 yields products (1) were measured in the temperature range from 248 to 417 K, taking into consideration pressures in the range from 60 to 700 torr of N2. The experimental investigation was carried out in a Pyrex flash photolysis system employing ultraviolet absorption detection. Methylperoxy radicals (CH3O2) were produced by the photolysis of Cl2-CH4-O2 mixtures. Rate constants were measured by observing the second-order disappearance of CH3O2 radicals. Plots of 1/(CH3O2 optical density) vs. time were observed to be linear over a concentration change of a factor of 10-50. Results of the kinetic runs at each temperature are summarized in a table, and an Arrhenius plot of the data is shown in a graph.
Correction to: Speed and directedness predict colonization sequence post-disturbance.

Authors would like to update the incorrect version of Fig. 4 which was incorrectly published in original publication.
Examining Variation Within the Charter School Sector: Academic Achievement in Suburban, Urban, and Rural Charter Schools

To date, there is a paucity of research that examines differences between charter schools that operate in suburban and nonsuburban contexts. This article examines whether students in suburban chart...
Bullous Skin Rash: A Rare Case of Palbociclib-Induced Dermatological Toxicity.

Palbociclib is an FDA-approved cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor to treat hormone-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer. Severe skin toxicities are rare but important adverse events associated with these agents. Early detection of severe forms of skin lesions is crucial to permit the immediate discontinuation of palbociclib in order to avoid unacceptable risk level in the form of severe cutaneous toxicities like Steven-Johnson Syndrome. In such cases, palbociclib should be abruptly discontinued and an early aggressive support should be initiated. We here present a case of 50-year-old Caucasian female, who developed acute onset blistering skin lesions one to two weeks after she was started on palbociclib. We sought to report this case given the unusual toxicity and to emphasize the importance of identifying the acute onset of blistering skin lesions, regardless of their extension, should prompt awareness of their potential severity.
Hepatogenous Photosensitivity Outbreak after Coccidiosis in Grazing Holstein Steers

Clinical signs of photosensitivity in cattle can occur sporadically and unpredictably. It is believed that cases of photosensitivity may be underreported, causing inaccurate and inflated reports of mortality. Additionally, because secondary photosensitization in grazing cattle occurs with liver damage or dysfunction, photosensitivity can have many potential or associated causes. This case links a previous occurrence of coccidiosis to an outbreak of photosensitivity in grazing Holstein steers. Grazing management staff first observed clinical signs of photosensitivity 17 days after an outbreak of coccidiosis and subsequent turnout to spring pastures. Clinical signs were observed in 25% of the population. The severity of photosensitivity was variable and ranged from blistered skin on the muzzle to sloughing of unpigmented epidermis and thinly haired regions. Severely affected cattle were removed from pasture, housed under shade, monitored for infection, and recovered without treatment. Mild cases remained on pasture and recovered without treatment. Photosensitivity did not reoccur in the cattle that remained on pasture or in mildly affected cattle returned to pasture. Photosensitivity did not appear to be associated with pasture weeds, a specific forage species, or variable or extreme weather conditions that could have resulted in mycotoxin production. The occurrence appears to have been a result of a previous and concurrent coccidiosis outbreak that caused secondary photosensitization through hepatic lipidosis caused by anorexia and dehydration associated with the severe coccidiosis. Although clinical signs appeared suddenly, cattle recovered quickly and without treatment.
Comparison of the Ovsynch Protocol and Exogenous Progesterone with Insemination at an Induced Estrus as Therapeutic Strategies for Ovarian Cysts in Lactating Dairy Cows

It has been suggested that an underlying mechanism in the development of bovine ovarian cysts involves a hypothalamic lesion which causes follicular estrogen to be ineffective in inducing a GnRH/LH surge at the time of estrus. This lesion involves the estrogen receptor alpha (ERa). Furthermore, it has been speculated that treatment with progesterone may induce the ERa in the mediobasal hypothalamus which will foster a GnRH/LH surge in response to follicular estrogen. Collectively, this information suggests that therapeutic strategies for bovine ovarian cysts could involve either the use of GnRH or exogenous progesterone. An intra vaginal progesterone insert (EAZI-BREED™ CIDR®) has been approved for use in lactating dairy cows. The use of a CIDR to synchronize estrus detection is relatively simple and less labor intensive than the OvSynch protocol. Therefore, it could be a more acceptable treatment for ovarian cysts in lactating dairy cows. However, there is no information available concerning the comparative efficacy of these two treatment strategies. The hypothesis of this study was that lactating dairy cows with ovarian cysts treated with exogenous progesterone, a luteolytic dose of PGF2a, and inseminated at an induced-estrus, will have a higher pregnancy rate compared to cows with ovarian cysts subjected to the OvSynch protocol. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of these two protocols.
New $$(3+1)$$ ( 3 + 1 ) -dimensional Painlevé integrable fifth-order equation with third-order temporal dispersion

This work deals with a new $$(3+1)$$ -dimensional Painleve integrable fifth-order equation characterized by third-order temporal and spatial dispersions. The Painleve test is carried out to demonstrate the complete integrability of this model. A rule that governs the dispersion relation with the spatial variables coefficients is reported. We employ the simplified Hirota’s method to obtain multiple soliton solutions. We examine specific cases of the dispersion relations along with their respective coefficients. It is hoped that the results reported in this work can enrich applications in solitary waves theory, and more specifically, in models with third-order temporal dispersion.
Pneumorrhachis in a Pediatric Patient with an Isolated Back Injury

Abstract Background: Pneumorrhachis is an uncommon radiographic finding and is typically found in adult patients secondary to trauma or pneumocephalus. It is extremely rare in the pediatric population. Our case report describes a young boy who was found to have pneumorrhachis, but initially presented with an isolated back laceration. Case Report: An 8-year-old boy arrived to the emergency department as a transfer from an outside hospital after initially presenting with a back laceration. After laceration repair, he developed severe headache and vomiting when sitting upright from a supine position. He was found to have T3 fractures and pneumocephalus secondary to pneumorrhachis and was managed conservatively per neurosurgery recommendations. Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This?Although extremely rare in the pediatric population, pneumorrhachis must still be considered in any pediatric patient with a penetrating injury to the abdomen, respiratory tract, or spinal column. Cases without clear etiology require further evaluation for occult spinal injuries and fractures. Conservative management is typically sufficient, although certain situations require further intervention.
Thermomechanical process optimization of U-10wt% Mo – Part 2: The effect of homogenization on the mechanical properties and microstructure

Abstract In the first part of this series, it was determined that the as-cast U-10Mo had a dendritic microstructure with chemical inhomogeneity and underwent eutectoid transformation during hot compression testing. In the present (second) part of the work, the as-cast samples were heat treated at several temperatures and times to homogenize the Mo content. Like the previous as-cast material, the “homogenized” materials were then tested under compression between 500 and 800 °C. The as-cast samples and those treated at 800 °C for 24 h had grain sizes of 25–30 μm, whereas those treated at 1000 °C for 16 h had grain sizes around 250 μm before testing. Upon compression testing, it was determined that the heat treatment had effects on the mechanical properties and the precipitation of the lamellar phase at sub-eutectoid temperatures.
Practical experiences with the 6 gyrotron system on the DIII-D tokamak

The gyrotron installation on the DIII-D tokamak now comprises six 110 GHz gyrotrons in the 1 MW class, three manufactured by CPI and three by Gycom. Two tetrode rectifier/modulator/regulator power supplies were constructed to provide power for the CPI gyrotrons. A second system uses three mod/reg tetrodes connected in parallel, which are fed by a dual parallel tetrode mod/reg to power the Gycom tubes. The windowless evacuated transmission lines are up to 100 m in length, with 80% transmission efficiency. Engineering solutions were developed in specific problematic areas encountered in the development of this complex system, including: gyrotron instability; high voltage circuit instability; gyrotron conditioning; rf beam forming and coupling to waveguide; output window vacuum seals; material control; launcher mechanics and diagnosis; polarizer mechanics; dummy loads; power measurements; polarization measurements; cooling; calorimetry; and operating controls. The system is in routine operation in support of tokamak experiments, with peak generated power of about 5 MW at 2 s. pulse length and about 3 MW for 5 s. pulses. This presentation focuses on practical lessons learned in the development and operation of these systems.
Learning constrained atoms

Abstract This paper studies the generalization of atomic formulas, or atoms, that are augmented with constraints on or among their terms. The atoms may also be viewed as definite clauses whose antecedents express the constraints. Atoms are generalized relative to a body of background information about the constraints. The paper develops an algorithm for the generalization task and discusses algorithm complexity. The paper also presents semantic properties of the generalizations computed by the algorithm. We have shown elsewhere that these properties are useful in problems such as abduction, induction, analogical reasoning, and knowledge base vivification. This paper emphasizes the application to induction and presents a pac-learning result for constrained atoms.
Insertion and folding of the amino-terminal amphiphilic signal sequences of the mannitol and glucitol permeases of Escherichia coli.

Peptides which correspond to the NH2-terminal 23 or 22 residues of the mannitol and glucitol permeases (enzymes IImtl and IIgut of the bacterial phosphotransferase system; mtl-23 and gut-22) and which are believed to function in envelope targeting were synthesized chemically, and their interactions with lipid model membranes were studied. Both wild-type peptides penetrated phospholipid monolayers up to high surface pressures, and partition constants of 8.0 x 10(4) M-1 and 4.2 x 10(4) M-1, respectively, were derived from the incorporation isotherms of mtl-23 and gut-22 with monolayers of 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-3-sn-phosphatidylcholine at 32 mN/m or bilayers of the same lipid. The mtl-23 peptide was highly alpha-helical in trifluoroethanol, sodium dodecyl sulfate, lysolecithin, or vesicles of 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-3-sn-phosphatidylglycerol, with estimated percentages of alpha-helix ranging between 60 and 85%. The interactions with model membranes of several single site mutants (S3P, D4P, and D4K) of mtl-23 which were defective in properly assembling the mannitol permease in the cytoplasmic membrane of Escherichia coli were also studied. The contents of alpha-helix of these peptides in detergent micelles or phospholipid bilayers were not significantly changed compared with those of the wild type, suggesting that the amphiphilic NH2-terminal membrane-targeting domain could still be formed in these mutants. However, the mutants which contained a proline in positions 3 or 4, i.e. NH2-terminal to the proposed amphiphilic alpha-helix, partitioned into phospholipid monolayers with partition constants that were 2 or 4 times smaller than those of the wild type. Based on these data, a model of the amphiphilic structure of the NH2-terminal domain of the mannitol permease is discussed. This domain may interact physiologically with amphiphilic interfaces of lipids and/or proteins during membrane insertion.
SB IPOs and IPO Anomalies: An Empirical Analysis of the Small Firm Uniqueness Hypothesis

The purpose of this paper is to provide a direct test of the small-firm uniqueness hypothesis advanced by Ang (1991). We do this by using the SB-IPO program of the SEC as our instrument to define a small firm. Having identified small firms, we test the three IPO anomalies to see if small firms differ from large firms along these dimensions. We find that SB IPOs experience the three anomalies; however, they do so in disparate ways than mainline IPOs do. In sum, we provide support for the small firm uniqueness hypothesis.
Pituitary Hyperplasia in Glycoprotein Hormone Alpha Subunit-, p18INK4C-, and p27kip-1-Null Mice : Analysis of Proteins Influencing p27kip-1 Ubiquitin Degradation

Most spontaneously developing hyperplastic and neoplastic lesions of the pituitary occur in the anterior pituitary. Targeted disruption of various cell-cycle proteins, including Rb, p27 kip1 (p27), and p18 INK4c (p18), is associated with intermediate lobe pituitary hyperplasia. To develop a model of anterior pituitary proliferation to study the pathogenesis of pituitary tumors, we crossed the glycoprotein hormone α-subunit (αSU)-null mice that develop thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) cell hyperplasia with p18-null mice. The resulting offsprings developed accelerated enlargement of the anterior lobe with predominantly TSH cell hyperplasia. Immunohistochemical and histological analyses of these mice along with p27/p18 double-null mice, p18-null mice, and p27-null mice showed evidence of TSH, adrenocorticotropic hormone, prolactin, and luteinizing hormone hyperplasia. To determine whether there were alterations of p27 and the target proteins implicated in the ubiquitin degradation of p27 and other cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors, we examined expression of SKP 2, Grb 2, and Jab 1 in the pituitaries of null mice. In the αSU-null mice there were decreased levels of SKP 2 and elevated levels of Grb 2 expression by Western blot analysis. Immunohistochemical analysis of the pituitary showed elevated Grb 2 in αSU-null and p18/αSU double-null mice. Jab 1 levels were not different from controls in the pituitary. These results show that 1) the p18/αSU double-null mice represent a good model to study the rapid development of anterior pituitary hyperplasia, and 2) various proteins important in p27 and other cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor protein degradation are altered in the pituitary of αSU-null and p18/αSU double-null mouse models.
Signal processing for random access: a case for cross-layer design

Summary form only given. The role of signal processing has traditionally been assumed away beyond the physical layer. The idea of transmitting one user at a time forms the basis of most MAC protocols. In this talk, we argue that a cross-layer design that takes into account signal processing capabilities at the physical layer will result in substantial gains in network throughput and stability margin. We consider the applications in the reach-back problem for a large scale sensor network and the use of an antenna array in wireless LAN.
Analyses of the Superplastic Behavior in Super α 2 Titanium Aluminide and γ′ Nickel Aluminide

Experimental results on superplasticity in a titanium aluminide, Ti 3 Al, have been reported. Elongations of over 500% can be obtained in this intermetallic alloy. Preliminary results on microstructural evolution of the Ti 3 Al alloy show that dynamic grain grown occurs and the volume fraction of α 2 phase decrease during superplastic deformation. The superplastic properties of Ti 3 Al are compared with those of another aluminide, Ni 3 Al, in terms of the effects of testing temperature and strain rate. Possible mechanisms of superplastic deformation of these intermeticallic alloys are also proposed
Whole Brain Volume Measured from 1.5T versus 3T MRI in Healthy Subjects and Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

BACKGROUND Whole brain atrophy is a putative outcome measure in monitoring relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). With the ongoing MRI transformation from 1.5T to 3T, there is an unmet need to calibrate this change. We evaluated brain parenchymal volumes (BPVs) from 1.5T versus 3T in MS and normal controls (NC). METHODS We studied MS [n = 26, age (mean, range) 43 (21-55), 22 (85%) RRMS, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 1.98 (0-6.5), timed 25 foot walk (T25FW) 5.95 (3.2-33.0 seconds)] and NC [n = 9, age 45 (31-53)]. Subjects underwent 1.5T (Phillips) and 3T (GE) 3-dimensional T1-weighted scans to derive normalized BPV from an automated SIENAX pipeline. Neuropsychological testing was according to consensus panel recommendations. RESULTS BPV-1.5T was higher than BPV-3T [mean (95% CI) + 45.7 mL (+35.3, +56.1), P < .00001], most likely due to improved tissue-CSF contrast at 3T. BPV-3T showed a larger volume decrease and larger effect size in detecting brain atrophy in MS versus NC [−74.5 mL (−126.5, −22.5), P = .006, d = .92] when compared to BPV-1.5T [−51.3.1 mL (−99.8, −2.8), P = .04, d = .67]. Correlations between BPV-1.5T and EDSS (r = −.43, P = .027) and BPV-3T and EDSS (r = −.49, P = .011) and between BPV-1.5T and T25FW (r = −.46, P = .018) and BPV-3T and T25FW (r = −.56, P = .003) slightly favored 3T. BPV-cognition correlations were significant (P < .05) for 6 of 11 subscales to a similar degree at 1.5T (r range = .44-.58) and 3T (r range = .43-.53). CONCLUSIONS Field strength may impact whole brain volume measurements in patients with MS though the differences are not too divergent between 1.5T and 3T.
Structural analysis of a series of antiviral agents complexed with human rhinovirus 14

Abstract The binding to human rhinovirus 14 of a series of eight antiviral agents that inhibit picornaviral uncoating after entry into host cells has been characterized crystallographically. All of these bind into the same hydrophobic pocket within the viral protein VP1 beta-barrel structure, although the orientation and position of each compound within the pocket was found to differ. The compounds cause the protein shell to be less flexible, thereby inhibiting disassembly. Although the antiviral potency of these compounds varies by 120-fold, they all induce the same conformational changes on the virion. The interactions of these compounds with the viral capsid are consistent with their observed antiviral activities against human rhinovirus 14 drug-resistant mutants and other rhinovirus serotypes. Crystallographic studies of one of these mutants confirm the partial sequencing data and support the finding that this is a single mutation that occurs within the binding pocket.
Long-term effects of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) on rod and rod-driven function

The purpose of this study was to determine whether recovery of scotopic sensitivity occurs in human ROP, as it does in the rat models of ROP. Following a cross-sectional design, scotopic electroretinographic (ERG) responses to full-field stimuli were recorded from 85 subjects with a history of preterm birth. In 39 of these subjects, dark adapted visual threshold was also measured. Subjects were tested post-term as infants (median age 2.5 months) or at older ages (median age 10.5 years) and stratified by severity of ROP: severe, mild, or none. Rod photoreceptor sensitivity, S ROD, was derived from the a-wave, and post-receptor sensitivity, log σ, was calculated from the b-wave stimulus–response function. Dark adapted visual threshold was measured using a forced-choice preferential procedure. For S ROD, the deficit from normal for age varied significantly with ROP severity but not with age group. For log σ, in mild ROP, the deficit was smaller in older subjects than in infants, while in severe ROP, the deficit was quite large in both age groups. In subjects who never had ROP, S ROD and log σ in both age groups were similar to those in term born controls. Deficits in dark adapted threshold and log σ were correlated in mild but not in severe ROP. The data are evidence that sensitivity of the post-receptor retina improves in those with a history of mild ROP. We speculate that beneficial reorganization of the post-receptor neural circuitry occurs in mild but not in severe ROP.
Antioxidants and skin care: the essentials.

The use of antioxidants in a skin care regimen is vital in both preventing and repairing age-related damage, but the relatively recent explosion in antioxidant research and subsequent products has flooded doctors and patients with a multitude of options. The purpose of this review is to explain the necessary role antioxidants play in skin care, detail the mechanisms of various topical antioxidants and how they operate in preventing and repairing aging skin, and discuss where future research is heading and how it can be best applied to help patients.
Influence of Pressure Overload and ACE Inhibitor Therapy on Constitutive Protein mRNA Expression in the Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat

Despite use as constitutive protein standards to quantify mRNA, data are limited regarding alteration of cyclophilin or glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G3PDH) in hypertension or angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor treatment. We assessed these standards in 6 month old Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY, n = 16), compared to age-matched spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR, n = 14). Additional SHR (n = 8) had received enalapril for 3 to 4 months at evaluation. Left ventricular (LV) and kidney RNA was extracted for dot blot cyclophilin and G3PDH cDNA hybridization. Cyclophilin and G3PDH mRNA densitometries were expressed as a ratio. Cyclophilin/G3PDH for the WKY, untreated SHR, and enalapril SHR were 1.56 +/- 0.33, 1.45 +/- 0.42, and 1.49 +/- 0.51, respectively, for the LV, and 1.52 +/- 0.09, 1.43 +/- 0.22, and 1.38 +/- 0.22, respectively, for the kidney. Differences were not significant. Relative expression of cyclophilin/G3PDH was unaffected by genetic SHR hypertension, or long term enalapril. Thus, either constitutive mRNA may be confidently used to index structural or functional protein responses, at the transcriptional level, in the SHR.
The application of fractal analysis to mammographic tissue classification

As a first step in determining the efficacy of using computers to assist in diagnosis of medical images, an investigation has been conducted which utilizes the patterns, or textures, in the images. To be of value, any computer scheme must be able to recognize and differentiate the various patterns. An obvious example of this in mammography is the recognition of tumorous tissue and non-malignant abnormal tissue from normal parenchymal tissue. We have developed a pattern recognition technique which uses features derived from the fractal nature of the image. Further, we are able to develop mathematical models which can be used to differentiate and classify the many tissue types. Based on a limited number of cases of digitized mammograms, our computer algorithms have been able to distinguish tumorous from healthy tissue and to distinguish among various parenchymal tissue patterns. These preliminary results indicate that discrimination based on the fractal nature of images may well represent a viable approach to utilizing computers to assist in diagnosis.
Spinal neuropathic osteoarthropathy (Charcot) disease resulting in a traumatic subarachnoid haemorrhage

Abstract A 36-year-old man presented with progressive thoracic deformity, a short history of headaches and visual impairment. Investigations revealed a unique case of spinal subarachnoid haemorrhage (sSAH) in a patient with spinal neuropathic osteoarthropathy. We discuss the imaging findings, major radiological differential diagnoses and discuss the possible mechanisms for sSAH.
Atmospheric science: An Arctic ozone hole?

The observation of unusually low ozone levels over the Arctic last winter provides reassuring evidence that our knowledge of stratospheric chemistry is robust. Whether such an episode will happen again is an open question. See Article p.469
THE TECHNIQUE OF PERCUTANEOUS ULTRASOUND GUIDED FINE‐NEEDLE ASPIRATION BIOPSY AND AUTOMATED MICROCORE BIOPSY IN SMALL ANIMAL GASTROINTESTINAL DISEASES

Techniques for obtaining percutaneous ultrasound-guided biopsies of the gastrointestinal tract were evaluated. The efficacity of ultrasonographic detection of gastrointestinal lesions has been established in veterinary medicine. Percutaneous ultrasound-guided aspiration biopsies were performed using either a 22 gauge spinal needle or a 20 gauge Westcott needle. The microcore automated biopsy was performed using a 18 gauge Tru-cut-like needle, assisted by an automated biopsy gun. These techniques are rapid, and easily performed. The techniques were considered safe for the patient, no complications such as hemorrhage, peritonitis or abscessation have occured in our study. These techniques are of particular interest when lesion can not be biopsied successfully by endoscopy and when surgical resection is not recommended.
Strain Stiffening in Synthetic and Biopolymer Networks

Strain-stiffening behavior common to biopolymer networks is difficult to reproduce in synthetic networks. Physically associating synthetic polymer networks can be an exception to this rule and can demonstrate strain-stiffening behavior at relatively low values of strain. Here, the stiffening behavior of model elastic networks of physically associating triblock copolymers is characterized by shear rheometry. Experiments demonstrate a clear correlation between network structure and strain-stiffening behavior. Stiffening is accurately captured by a constitutive model with a single fitting parameter related to the midblock length. The same model is also effective for describing the stiffening of actin, collagen, and other biopolymer networks. Our synthetic polymer networks could be useful model systems for biological materials due to (1) the observed similarity in strain-stiffening behavior, which can be quantified and related to network structure, and (2) the tunable structure of the physically associating n...
Effect of background acceptor impurity on the radiative transition in low-dimensional InGaAs material

The e-AO FB radiative transition is investigated by the 10K PL measurements for the unintentionally doped MOCVD grown InGaAs. The intensity ratio of the e-AO FB transition to the BE exciton transition is found to be greatly larger in bulk material than that in the quantum well samples. In quantum well samples, this ratio is found to decrease rapidly as the well width decreases. A model is presented to calculate the oscillator strength of the e-AO recombination and the 1 1H excitonic recombination in quantum well, and this simulation can semi-quantitatively explain the experimental results.
Abstract 1006: Soluble epoxide hydrolase gene deficiency attenuates colitis-induced carcinogenesis in IL-10 knockout mice

Soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) can quickly inactivate epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) anti-inflammatory function via converting it to dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acid (DHETs). Inhibition of sEH has shown effects against inflammation. But little is studied about the effect of sEH on colitis-induced carcinogenesis. In this study, we determined the role of sEH gene deficiency in suppressing the development of colitis-induced tumor using chronic colitis mouse model in IL-10 knockout mice combined with sEH gene deficiency. Tumor formation in the bowel was examined at age of 25 weeks for male mice and 35 weeks for female mice. Our results showed that sEH (-/-)/IL-10 (-/-) mice exhibited a significant decrease of tumor multiplicity (2 tumor/mouse vs. 1 tumor/mouse) and tumor size (344.55±71.73 vs. 126.94±23.18 mm 3 , p=0.028) as compared to IL-10(-/-) mice. But no difference was observed for tumor incidence. Colitis-induced dysplasia was further identified by Ki67-labeled luminal surface epithelial cell proliferation combined with morphologic features and revealed that the number of dysplasia was significantly decreased in sEH (-/-)/IL-10 (-/-) mice. Histopathological analysis of inflammatory activity in the bowel showed the significantly lower inflammation scores, including inflammation-involved area (1.4±0.18 vs. 0.70±0.16, P=0.007), ulcer (2.15±0.18 vs. 1.55±0.35, P=0.032), and myeloperoxidase-labeled inflammatory cell infiltrates in sEH (-/-)/ IL-10(-/-) mice compared to IL-10(-/-) mice. qPCR and western blotting assays showed a downregulation of inflammatory cytokines and NF-kB signals. Analysis of eicsanoid acid metabolic profile confirmed sEH functional deficiency and showed a significant increase in the ratios of EETs/DHET and EpOME/DiOME in sEH (-/-)/IL-10 (-/-) mice compared to IL-10(-/-) mice. The results indicate that sEH gene plays an important role in the development of chronic colitis-induced carcinoma and could serve as a crucial target of cancer chemoprevention. (Supported by NIH R01 grant CA137467) Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1006. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-1006
Retention of Co-60 by the sediments of Montsweag Bay, Maine

Abstract The retention of radiocobalt, derived from a nuclear power plant, in the sediments of a shallow bay in the Sheepscot estuary, Maine, was examined using a combination of field and laboratory data. Adsorption experiments were designed to simulate the adsorption of cobalt onto natural sediments under natural conditions of suspended particulate concentrations, pH, salinity and flushing time of the bay. These experiments indicated that less than 40 % of the effluent radiocobalt would be expected to be scavenged by suspended particulates. An inventory of Co-60 in the sediments of the bay showed that probably less than 13 % of the total documented release was present. Highest activities of Co-60 were found in the upper parts of intertidal coves of the bay. A qualitative model is presented proposing scavenging of radiocobalt by wind-induced resuspension of fine-grained bottom sediments followed by preferential accumulation of these fine-grained materials in the upper intertidal.
Modeling of a positive chemically amplified photoresist for x-ray lithography

This paper reports the initial results on modeling of a positive chemically amplified photoresist for x-ray lithography. A positive tone chemically amplified photoresist, APEX-M from the IBM Corp., was exposed with synchrotron radiation. A kinetic model for exposure and post- exposure bake has been developed. The FTIR spectroscopy measurement data show that the photoacid loss reaction during post-exposure bake is described as a second order reaction. For the mask patterned photoresist, this leads to a nonlinear diffusion -- reaction equation. It was shown that the second order photoacid loss mechanism results in different values of the photoacid diffusion range for different exposure doses. A simulation method has been developed to take into account simultaneously photoacid diffusion and photoacid loss for the latent image of the photoresist. The x-ray exposure simulation tool XLITH and the photoresist development simulator SAMPLE-3D have been used for verification of the model for 0.25 micrometers patterns. The experimental and simulated profiles have shown good agreement.
In-vitro cytocidal effect of water on bladder cancer cells: The potential role for intraperitoneal lavage during radical cystectomy.

Introduction: We investigate the cytocidal effect of water on bladder cancer cells. Intraperitoneal lavage with sterile water is sometimes used during radical cystectomy to lyse cancer cells that might have escaped the surgical specimen. The efficacy of this approach at the cellular level is unknown. Methods: Three bladder cancer cell lines of varying grade, RT4, TCCSUP and T24 were exposed to sterile water, and morphological changes were closely observed under microscopy. Changes of cell membrane integrity, cell viability, and cell number of reincubated cells after water exposure were measured to determine water induced hypotonic shock. Results: The low-grade RT4 cells started swelling immediately upon exposure to water followed by rupture within 3 minutes. The higher grade TCCSUP and T24 cells demonstrated limited hypotonic swelling with significantly less cell rupture after 10 minutes. The damage to cell membrane of RT4 cells was evident at 1 minute; only 10.0% of cells were intact at 10 minutes. On the other hand, 41.9% and 77.8% of TCCSUP and T24 cells were intact at 10 minutes, respectively. Percentage of viable cells at 10 minutes was 2.1 ± 2.3%, 2.3 ± 0.4%, and 16.1 ± 0.6% for RT4, TCCSUP, and T24, respectively. Conclusions: Cytocidal effect of hypotonic shock can be achieved, to varying degrees, by exposing bladder cancer cells to water for at least 10 minutes. This in vitro study may have bearing on the effects seen with intraperitoneal lavage using sterile water during radical cystectomy.
On the Supposed “ Kenyapithecus africanus ” Mandible

ENOUGH is known about Ramapithecus species (including “Kenyapithecus wickeri”) to say that a morphological complex characterizes the earliest hominids. This complex, described in detail elsewhere1,2, includes anteroposterior shortening of the jaw, reduction of canine height, squaring of the molars, lowering of the molar cusps, molarization of the premolars, thickening of cheek tooth enamel, increase in interstitial wear, and increase in the verticality of the incisors and symphyseal region.
Feasibility analysis of high-density STTRAM designs with crossbar or shared transistor structures

The feasibility of high-density STTRAM design utilizing CBA and 1T-nMTJ structures is analyzed with quantitative device and array models. To be effective, both designs have to employ two-terminal selectors connected with MTJs to suppress sneak current. The writing/reading performance of these designs depends critically on the resistance balance between selectors and MTJs. Selectors with strong nonlinearity and resistance comparable with that of MTJ will improve these high-density designs. These designs may help to relax the stringent requirements on STTRAM access transistors.
The many flavors of ecosystems

This panel will address issues surrounding software ecosystems. We have chosen individuals who will present a differing set of views on the topic.
Simulations of quantized double layer charging voltammetry of poly-disperse and mono-disperse monolayer-protected clusters

This paper describes simulated differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) of quantized double-layer charging (QDL) in poly-disperse monolayer-protected gold cluster (MPC) solutions. The simulation accounts for the voltage spacing between QDL peaks with a concentric sphere capacitor model, in which core sizes, and the relative proportion of each size, are input using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) data. MPC diffusion coefficients are estimated from hydrodynamic radii, and peaks are broadened to account for DPV pulse height effects. The smallest MPCs are omitted from the simulation because electrochemical HOMO/LUMO gap information is uncertain. The largest ones are shown to produce the underlying DPV current continuum typical of experimental DPV of poly-disperse samples. The simulation produces a fair approximation of the experimental DPV of a poly-disperse MPC sample, and an excellent representation of a relatively mono-disperse sample.
Possible target antigens in autoimmune endocrine disease

Insulin is most familiar in its circulatingform, binding to appropriately equipped target cells which are remote from the site of insulin synthesis, the pancreatic islet cells. Here David Kaplan describes recent observations that insulin and perhaps other hormones are also detectable as surface membrane antigens on the cells that secrete them, and discusses the implications of these findings for the study of autoimmune disease.
Frequency of unfavorable cardiac events documented by routine telemetry monitoring after uncomplicated percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty

Abstract Telemetry monitoring for 12 to 48 hours is performed routinely in many hospitals after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), even if the procedure is clinically uncomplicated. Although monitoring would seem to provide an extra measure of safety to detect arrhythmias that might arise from myocardial ischemia due to acute vessel closure, there is little documentation that telemetry is either necessary, beneficial or cost-effective in cases of uncomplicated PTCA. This study prospectively determines the incidence and clinical significance of arrhythmias detected by routine telemetry and by simultaneous ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring in patients after uncomplicated PTCA.
Target zone exchange rate

Abstract This paper attempts to rationalize the target zone exchange rate system's width proposed by Williamson (1983). The model is a special case of the Exponentially Weighted Moving Average (EWMA) function. Given the time series distribution, estimated means and variances are plotted on a bounded (upper and lower) standard normal distribution.