cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Carotid stenosis: change of treatment plan based on repeat duplex ultrasonography.

Abstract Background This study was conducted to evaluate the change in the treatment plan observed when clinical decisions are made based on initial carotid duplex ultrasonography (DU) performed at an outside center before surgical consultation versus those made based on DU performed in a dedicated vascular laboratory. Methods A prospective study of patients who underwent initial DU at an outside facility and repeat DU in a dedicated vascular laboratory for evaluation of carotid stenosis was performed. Initial DU was compared with repeat DU to evaluate clinical impact. Results Ninety-six consecutive patients were evaluated. Disagreement between initial DU and repeat DU was observed in 27.1% of patients. This disagreement led to a change of treatment plan in 23 of 146 (15.8%) carotid arteries studied. Conclusions Reliance on 1 DU in clinical practice, when performed outside a dedicated vascular laboratory, may lead to both unnecessary surgery and missed opportunities for surgery to prevent stroke.
Asymptotics for Euclidean minimal spanning trees on random points

Asymptotic results for the Euclidean minimal spanning tree onn random vertices inRd can be obtained from consideration of a limiting infinite forest whose vertices form a Poisson process in allRd. In particular we prove a conjecture of Robert Bland: the sum of thed'th powers of the edge-lengths of the minimal spanning tree of a random sample ofn points from the uniform distribution in the unit cube ofRd tends to a constant asn→∞.
Control of behavioural strategies for capricious environments

Abstract In addition to seasonal changes in morphology, physiology and behaviour that occur in predictable annual cycles, there are facultative responses to unpredictable events known as labile (i.e. shortlived) perturbation factors. These rapid behavioural and physiological changes have been termed the ‘emergency life-history stage’ and serve to enhance lifetime fitness. There are four major components: (1) proactive/reactive coping styles for responding to psychosocial stress, predation, and so forth; (2) fight-or-flight responses to rapid emergencies such as an attack by a predator or sudden severe storm; (3) ‘take-it-or-leave-it’ behavioural and physiological responses to longer-term perturbations of the physical environment; and (4) sickness behaviour and fever designed to respond to infection. Glucocorticosteroids interact with cytokines and with other hormones in the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal cascade and in the autonomic nervous system to initiate and orchestrate the emergency life-history stage within minutes to hours. Some traits of the emergency life-history stage include: redirection of behaviour from a normal life-history stage to increased foraging, irruptive-type migration during the day, enhanced restfulness at night, elevated gluconeogenesis, and recovery once the perturbation passes. These physiological and behavioural changes allow an individual to avoid potential deleterious effects of stress that may result from chronically elevated levels of circulating glucocorticosteroids over days and weeks. Thus, acute rises in glucocorticosteroids following perturbations of the environment may serve primarily as ‘antistress’ hormones, potentially allowing individuals to avoid chronic stress. Several field studies in diverse habitats indicate that individuals in free-living populations show elevated circulating levels of corticosteroids when they are in an emergency life-history stage. Some simple models based on food availability, body condition, social status and life-history stage, may allow predictions of sensitivity of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis to labile perturbation factors. Although there is now extensive evidence for behavioural components of the emergency life-history stage in birds, there remains much to be learned about how other vertebrate groups, especially fish, cope with perturbations of the environment. Because of the unpredictable nature of these perturbations, systematic study of behavioural responses to them is not possible and investigators need to be ‘opportunistic’. There is also a growing need to expand our knowledge of these phenomena because human disturbance, global climate change and pollution are all major perturbations of the environment. How vertebrates respond to the unpredictable in general will thus have important conservation value for the future. Copyright 2003 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Genetic Diversity among World Hop Accessions Grown in the USA

Hop (Humulus lupulus L.) is an important cash crop in the U.S. Pacific Northwest. Classifying groups of hop accessions presently held in the USDA-ARS world collection is vital toward categorizing newly imported accessions and identifying closely related (if not identical) cultivars. The objective of this study was to identify hop germplasm diversity pools on the basis on morphological and chemical data by cluster analysis. Eight hop quality characteristics including yield (YLD), a acids, β acids, hop-storage index (HSI), cohumulone (CoH), myrcene (M), caryophyllene (C), and humulene (H) were obtained from historical databases for 129 accessions from the USDA-ARS hop germplasm field collection located near Corvallis, OR. Three distinct genetic diversity pools were identified and named: (i) European, (ii) Wild North American, and (iii) Hybrids. The European pool was divided into English and Continental European subgroups distinguished by their α-acids and CoH contents. The Hybrid pool was divided into five subgroups distinguished by their geographic origins. The variables YLD and CoH content differentiated these five subgroups (r = 0.92; P ≤ 0.05). The information presented in our study will help categorize newly imported accessions into the current U.S. hop germplasm collection and will help in identifying closely related or similar accessions.
Representing degree distributions, clustering, and homophily in social networks with latent cluster random effects models

Social network data often involve transitivity, homophily on observed attributes, community structure, and heterogeneity of actor degrees. We propose a latent cluster random effects model to represent all of these features, and we develop Bayesian inference for it. The model is applicable to both binary and non-binary network data. We illustrate the model using two real datasets: liking between monks and coreaderships between Slovenian publications. We also apply it to two simulated network datasets with very different network structure but the same highly skewed degree sequence generated from a preferential attachment process. One has transitivity and community structure while the other does not. Models based solely on degree distributions, such as scale-free, preferential attachment and power-law models, cannot distinguish between these very different situations, but the latent cluster random effects model does.
Antidepressant use in pregnancy: a critical review focused on risks and controversies

Objective Conflicting data have led to controversy regarding antidepressant use during pregnancy. The objectives of this study are to i) review the risks of untreated depression and anxiety, ii) review the literature on risks of exposure to antidepressants during pregnancy, iii) discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the different study designs used to evaluate those risks, and iv) provide clinical recommendations. Method MEDLINE/PubMed was searched for reports and studies on the risk of first-trimester teratogenicity, postnatal adaptation syndrome (PNAS), and persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN) with in utero antidepressant exposure. Results While some individual studies suggest associations between some specific major malformations, the findings are inconsistent. Therefore, the absolute risks appear small. PNAS occurs in up to 30% of neonates exposed to antidepressants. In some studies, PPHN has been weakly associated with in utero antidepressant exposure, while in other studies, there has been no association. Conclusion Exposures of concern include that of untreated maternal illness as well as medication exposure. It is vital to have a careful discussion, tailored to each patient, which incorporates the evidence to date and considers methodological and statistical limitations. Past medication trials, previous success with symptom remission, and women's preference should guide treatment decisions.
Induction therapy by anti-thymocyte globulin (rabbit) versus basiliximab in deceased donor renal transplants and the effect on delayed graft function and outcomes.

Abstract The use of induction therapy significantly reduces the incidence of acute rejection (AR) episodes posttransplantation and prevents delayed graft function (DGF). In our program, all adult deceased donor kidney transplant (DDKT) recipients receive immunosuppression induction therapy with either Basiliximab (anti-CD25 Ab) or rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin (RATG). Our protocol is risk adjusted such that patients who are at a higher risk for DGF or AR received RATG and all other patients receive anti-CD25 Ab. We hypothesized that treating our higher-risk patients with RATG induction at the time of transplantation would lead to a lower rate of DGF and better outcomes. From August 1, 2005 through August 31, 2010, 116 consecutive adult patients received a DDKT in a single academic transplantation center. All DDKT patients received induction with RATG or anti-CD25 Ab. The induction decision was made prior to transplantation based on donor and recipient risk factors for AR and DGF. Transplants that were deemed at higher risk for DGF or AR based on donor factors or recipient factors received RATG. Medical records and patient databases were reviewed retrospectively. The use of RATG in higher-risk recipients for DGF and AR did not significantly reduce the DGF rate. At 6 months the function of the allograft function measured as creatinine clearance or serum creatinine was lower in the RATG group than the patients who received anti-CD25 Ab induction. The choice of induction therapy did not improve outcomes in high-risk patients in this short-term study.
Myelofibrosis with a novel translocation, t(1;3)(q31;q23), and response to imatinib mesylate.

Imatinib mesylate is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor with preferential activity toward the bcr-abl fusion protein of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML).1 Imatinib mesylate is also active against a limited number of other tyrosine kinases, including c-kit, PDGFR and PDGFR.2 Significant clinical activity has been demonstrated in diseases in which these tyrosine kinases play a major role, including a variety of myeloproliferative disorders such as the hypereosinophilic syndromes.3 Currently, we report on a patient with an atypical myeloproliferative disorder and a novel balanced translocation who had a dramatic clinical response to imatinib mesylate. The specific target in this patient is unknown.
Immune Mediated Diseases and Immune Modulation in the Neurocritical Care Unit

This chapter will review the spectrum of immune-mediated diseases that affect the nervous system and may result in an admission to the neurological intensive care unit. Immunomodulatory strategies to treat acute exacerbations of neurological diseases caused by aberrant immune responses are discussed, but strategies for long-term immunosuppression are not presented. The recommendations for therapeutic intervention are based on a synthesis of the literature, and include recommendations by the Cochrane Collaborative, the American Academy of Neurology, and other key organizations. References from recent publications are provided for the disorders and therapies in which randomized clinical trials and large evidenced-based reviews do not exist. The chapter concludes with a brief review of the mechanisms of action, dosing, and side effects of commonly used immunosuppressive strategies in the neurocritical care unit.
Budgetary fairness and governmental program heads' turnover intention

Purpose – Empirical evidence from governmental budgeting and related organizational decision‐making contexts suggests that program heads will be less likely to leave their governmental unit when they feel that governmental budgeting is fair. The purpose of this study is to examine relationships between three forms of fairness in governmental budgeting – distributive fairness, procedural fairness, and interactional fairness – and program heads' intention to leave the governmental unit.Design/methodology/approach – Questionnaire data were gathered from 87 US federal government program heads with budget responsibility and analyzed with multiple regression.Findings – Interactional budgetary fairness had a significant and positive unique relationship with intent to leave after controlling for the other two forms of budgetary fairness and three demographic variables. Neither distributive budgetary fairness nor procedural budgetary fairness had a significant unique relationship with intent to leave.Practical imp...
Prognostic value of predischarge 2-dimensional echocardiogram after acute myocardial infarction.

Abstract The prognostic value of a 2-dimensional echocardiogram (2-D echo) was determined in 46 patients (32 men and 14 women) who survived an acute myocardial infarction (MI) from November 1979 to December 1980. The mean age of the patients was 61 years (range 36 to 92). The MI was anterior in 21, inferior in 22 and indeterminate in 3; it was transmural in 31 and nontransmural in 15. A 2-D echo was obtained 10 to 15 days after the MI—that is, 1 to 3 days before hospital discharge. A wall motion score index (WMSI) was derived with the use of a 14-segment model of the left ventricle. Each segment was assigned a number corresponding to its wall motion (0 = hyperkinetic, 1 = normal, 2 = hypokinetic, 3 = akinetic, 4 = dyskinetic and 5 = aneurysm) and the WMSI was calculated by dividing the sum of these numbers by the number of segments visualized (1.0 = normal wall motion). During a mean follow-up of 21 months (range 15 to 28), 17 patients had a complication: death, recurrence of MI, congestive heart failure of New York Heart Association class III or IV, or angina graded New York Heart Association class III or IV. Patients with compared to those without complications had a significantly higher WMSI (2.2 ± 0.4 and 1.7 ± 0.5, p
Lipid Domains in Plasma Membrances from Rat Liver

The existence of fluid and solid lipid domains in isolated rat-liver plasma membranes was evaluated using the fluorescent fatty acids trans-parinaric and cis-parinaric acid as probe molecules for solid and fluid membrane areas, respectively. The fluorescence probe 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene indicated that a phase transition was present in the liver plasma membrane between 18 degrees C and 30 degrees C. At intermediate temperatures, cis-parinaric acid, which partitioned approximately equally into fluid and solid lipid areas, detected two lipid domains: the mole fractions of fluid and solid lipid domains at 24 degrees C were 0.32 and 0.68 while the mole fractions of cis-parinaric acid in each domain were 0.34 and 0.66, respectively. The dissociation constant, aqueous to membrane lipid partition coefficient, and bound to free ratio for trans-parinaric acid were 7.0 +/- 0.7 microM, 4.0 +/- 0.6 x 10(6), and 83:17, respectively. The affinity of the membrane for cis-parinaric acid was twofold lower than for trans-parinaric acid. The trans-parinaric acid partitioned preferentially into solid lipid, Ksp/f = 3.30, while the cis-parinaric acid partitioned equally between fluid and solid phases Ksp/f = 0.92. Thus, the data demonstrate the coexistence of fluid and solid domains in rat liver plasma membranes.
Inhibition of actinomycin synthesis by D-valine.

THE actinomycins (I to V)1 synthesized by Streptomyces antibioticus each possess two moles of D-valine per mole of antibiotic2; Streptomyces chrysomallus, on the other hand, forms a mixture consisting of actinomycins IV (contains 2 moles D-valine), VI (contains l mole D-valine and l mole D-alloisoleucine) and VII (contains 2 moles D-alloisoleucine)2. During an investigation concerned with the mechanism of synthesis of D-amino acids by S. antibioticus, it was observed that the addition of D-valine to a chemically-defined medium3 in which the organism was growing resulted in a marked inhibition of actinomycin synthesis (Table 1, Fig. 1). The relationship of this event to that seen in penicillin biosynthesis with D-valine4,5 prompted a further investigation of this phenomenon.
Hypertrophy and/or Hyperplasia: Dynamics of Adipose Tissue Growth

Adipose tissue grows by two mechanisms: hyperplasia (cell number increase) and hypertrophy (cell size increase). Genetics and diet affect the relative contributions of these two mechanisms to the growth of adipose tissue in obesity. In this study, the size distributions of epididymal adipose cells from two mouse strains, obesity-resistant FVB/N and obesity-prone C57BL/6, were measured after 2, 4, and 12 weeks under regular and high-fat feeding conditions. The total cell number in the epididymal fat pad was estimated from the fat pad mass and the normalized cell-size distribution. The cell number and volume-weighted mean cell size increase as a function of fat pad mass. To address adipose tissue growth precisely, we developed a mathematical model describing the evolution of the adipose cell-size distributions as a function of the increasing fat pad mass, instead of the increasing chronological time. Our model describes the recruitment of new adipose cells and their subsequent development in different strains, and with different diet regimens, with common mechanisms, but with diet- and genetics-dependent model parameters. Compared to the FVB/N strain, the C57BL/6 strain has greater recruitment of small adipose cells. Hyperplasia is enhanced by high-fat diet in a strain-dependent way, suggesting a synergistic interaction between genetics and diet. Moreover, high-fat feeding increases the rate of adipose cell size growth, independent of strain, reflecting the increase in calories requiring storage. Additionally, high-fat diet leads to a dramatic spreading of the size distribution of adipose cells in both strains; this implies an increase in size fluctuations of adipose cells through lipid turnover.
Survey of Power Systems Reclosing Practices in Pulp and Paper Mills

This paper gives the results of a survey conducted by the Power Distribution System Subcommittee of the Pulp and Paper Industry Committee of the IEEE Industry Applications Society. Its purpose was twofold, 1) to explore utility/mill relaying and electrical tie practices and, 2) to explore and devise safe and expeditious operation practices in reenergizing a circuit after a primary or medium voltage feeder breaker tripout has occurred.
On the stereochemistry of anion-accelerated [1,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement of 2-vinylcyclobutanols

Abstract Stereochemical studies on the oxyanion-accelerated [1,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement reactions of nonracemic cis - and trans -2-(1-cyclohexenyl)cyclobutanols are described. Epimerization of cis -2-(1-cyclohexenyl)cyclobutanol to the trans -isomer at −20°C was found to proceed with predominant retention of configuration, the degree of which was enhanced by an increasing amount of 18-crown-6.
Scope and utility of hydrogen exchange as a tool for mapping landscapes

The ability to determine conformational parameters of protein-folding landscapes is critical for understanding the link between conformation, function, and disease. Monitoring hydrogen exchange (HX) of labile protons at equilibrium enables direct extraction of thermodynamic or kinetic landscape parameters in two limiting extremes. Here, we establish a quantitative framework for relating HX behavior to landscape. We use this framework to demonstrate that the range of predicted global HX behavior for the majority of a set of characterized two-state proteins under near-native conditions does not readily span between both extremes. For most, stability may be quantitatively determined under physiological conditions, with semiquantitative boundaries on kinetics additionally determined using modest experimental perturbations to shift HX behavior. The framework and relationships derived in the simple context of two-state global folding highlight the importance of understanding HX across the entire continuum of behavior, in order to apply HX to map landscapes.
Sprinkler Bifurcations and Stability

After discussing common bifurcations of a one-parameter family of single variable functions, we introduce sprinkler bifurcations, in which any number of new fixed points emanate from a single point...
Effect of vinpocetine on monoamine receptor binding and synaptosomal uptake in the rat brain

The in vitro effect of vinpocetine on the various adrenergic, serotoninergic, and dopaminergic receptor systems was studied in the rat. At 1 μM concentrations, vinpocetine and its major metabolite, apovincaminic acid, did not exhibit inhibitory activity in any of the receptor binding assays, nor did vinpocetine show any significant inhibitory effect in the synaptosomal uptake assays at ten-fold higher concentrations. The results suggest the unlikeliness that vinpocetine exerts its pharmacological effects through monoamine receptor binding or synaptosomal uptake mechanisms.
Spray Characteristics of an Airblast-Simplex Nozzle for Liquid-Fueled Gas Turbine Combustors

Experimental and computational (CFD) investigations were conducted on an Airblast Simplex (ABS) nozzle. A Phase Doppler Particle Analyzer (PDPA) was used to study the main characteristics of the nozzle. Water was used as the test liquid with pressure drops of 68.9, 172.3 & 689 kPa, while the air pressure drops were 2.49 & 34.5 kPa. PDPA data were obtained at three different axial distances from the nozzle exit (x = 2.5 (or 7), 17 & 40 mm). In the numerical simulations, the three-dimensional flow field for both air and liquid was computed. The combination of detailed experimental measurements and CFD provided excellent insight into the physics of the atomizer. The three-dimensional CFD simulation showed distinct jets originating the air swirler and secondary flows that cause multiple peaks in number density, volume flux and velocity distributions. The jets suggest why asymmetric distributions are common in sprays. The jetting effect from the swirler vanes emphasizes the importance of swirler and airflow design on the performance of a spray nozzle. The discrete jetting effect is not visually observable, nor is it easily measured using PDPA.The ABS nozzle examined has several distinct advantages over a pressure swirl atomizer, including, (1) the distinct sheet from the hollow cone spray is dispersed within 17 mm in all cases studied herein, and (2) the spray volume does not change significantly with increasing air or liquid pressure drop. Therefore, careful design of ABS nozzle results in a spray with nearly constant spray volume and SMD over a wide range of Air/Liquid Ratios.Copyright © 1998 by ASME
SCIP: a glial POU domain gene regulated by cyclic AMP.

Abstract We have isolated cDNA clones encoding SCIP, a POU domain gene expressed by myelin-forming glia of the central and peripheral nervous systems. In purified Schwann cells cultured in the absence of neurons, expression of SCIP is suppressed. This suppression is relieved by cAMP, and induction of SCIP mRNA by this second messenger precedes CAMP induction of myelin-specific genes. Similarly, SCIP expression in vivo precedes full expression of myelin-specific genes in developing oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells. The sequence of the SCIP POU domain is identical to that of Tst-1, a recently identified member of a family of POU domain genes expressed by restricted subsets of neurons. Our results demonstrate that SCIP is also expressed by myelin-forming glia and suggest that it plays a central role in the progressive determination of these cells and their commitment to myelination.
Will investments in biobanks, prospective cohorts, and markers of common patterns of variation benefit other populations for drug response and disease susceptibility gene discovery?

High-throughput technologies, decreasing costs for genotyping, and genomic resources that promise to reduce the number of genotypes required to scan the genome (such as the International HapMap Project) soon will make association studies a more successful strategy for identifying genetic contributors to disease susceptibility and drug response.1, 2 Accordingly, both nonprofit funders and biotechnology companies currently are investing in infrastructure for association studies. Elements of that emerging infrastructure such as prospective cohorts and biobanks are being developed with participants from a limited number of populations with the goal of applying their findings to many other populations. However, not all phenotypes and populations may be as suitable for this approach as others. Which populations and phenotypes will benefit and which will not in the coming era of large-scale association studies?
Behavioral and Biological Associations of Dietary Restraint: A Review of the Literature

This article critically reviews the behavioral and biological associations of dietary restraint. Behaviorally, dietary restraint manifests itself in the form of less variety in the diet and reduced energy intake. As practiced by some, dietary restraint may create biological and psychological feelings of deprivation that lead to greater reactivity to food cues, cravings, counterregulation, disinhibition, periodic overeating, and weight gain. Biologically, it is often associated with unhealthy changes in body composition, hormonal changes, reduced bone density, menstrual disturbances, and lower resting energy expenditure. Caution is indicated in the promotion of dietary restraint as a general principle for managing weight.
The E.P.I.C. Journey Sanctioning Model.

AbstractAs universities look for more effective ways to address violations of behavioral standards, a proposed solution is to infuse intentional development into well-established conduct processes inherently focused on legal mandates and due process. The E.P.I.C. Journey Sanctioning Model was designed to refocus the outcomes of the conduct process to transform decision-making patterns through the use of counseling techniques, journey sanctioning, and mentors. Explanation of the model’s components is included along with identification of tools and strategies that are implemented to create a more intentional learning environment within the conduct process.
Total synthesis of the calycanthaceous alkaloids

Abstract The total synthesis of dl -calycanthine and dl -chimonanthine is described; following biogenetic precedent, the synthesis route involves oxidative dimerization of N-carbethoxy-oxytryptamine followed by reductive cyclization. The alkaloids are interconverted by acid-catalyzed isomerization. The structures of some synthetic byproducts are also discussed.
A comparison of the periodontal status in patients with mucous membrane pemphigoid: a 5-year follow-up.

Background: Mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP) is a heterogenous group of blistering autoimmune disorders of unknown etiology. Intraoral manifestations of MMP feature the formation of vesiculobullous lesions that eventually rupture, leading to pseudomembrane-covered, irregularly-shaped ulcerations. The presence of these often painful oral lesions may hinder oral hygiene efforts resulting in increased plaque accumulation and may increase the risk of developing periodontal disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the changes in periodontal status in patients with MMP after a period of 5 years.Methods: Twenty patients, 10 diagnosed with MMP and 10 controls matched for age, gender, and smoking history, were chosen to participate in a study evaluating their periodontal status. Parameters evaluated included the plaque index, gingival index, bleeding index, probing depths, recession, clinical attachment level, mobility, furcation involvement, number of missing teeth, and periodontitis. Data from the same...
Risk assessment of formaldehyde

Abstract In April 1987, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued the “Assessment of Health Risks to Garment Workers and Certain Home Residents from Exposure to Formaldehyde” in which formaldehyde was classified as a carcinogen and an irritant to the eyes and respiratory tract. A quantitative risk assessment for cancer was presented. A more current document, a draft released in 1991, incorporates some additional data on the epidemiology and toxicology of formaldehyde that the EPA has received since completion of the earlier assessment, and examines the impact of this information on the estimates of health risks following exposure to airborne formaldehyde. For noncancer effects, the new data support earlier conclusions with regard to the irritant effects of formaldehyde and the dose-response gradient for these effects. The cancer assessment incorporates the use of a molecular dosimeter for the derivation of risk estimates. Tissue levels of this dosimeter, a covalent cross-link product of formaldehyde and DNA-protein (DPX), are available from rats and monkeys. The risk estimates obtained with this dosimeter are considerably lower than those obtained by conventional approaches.
Early loss of astrocytes after experimental traumatic brain injury

Neuronal-glial interactions are important for normal brain function and contribute to the maintenance of the brain's extracellular environment. Damage to glial cells following traumatic brain injury (TBI) could therefore be an important contributing factor to brain dysfunction and neuronal injury. We examined the early fate of astrocytes and neurons after TBI in rats. A total of 27 rats were euthanized at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, or 24 h after moderate lateral fluid percussion TBI or after sham TBI. Ipsilateral and contralateral hippocampi were examined in coronal sections from -2.12 to -4.80 mm relative to bregma. Adjacent sections were processed with markers for either astrocytes or degenerating neurons. Astrocytes were visualized using glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) or glutamine synthetase immunohistochemistry. Neuronal degeneration was visualized using Fluoro-Jade (FJ) histofluorescence. At 30 min, there was a significant loss of GFAP immunoreactivity in ipsilateral hippocampal CA3 with some loss of normal astrocyte morphology in the remaining cells. The number of normal staining astrocytes decreased progressively over time with extensive astrocyte loss at 24 h. At 4 h, lightly stained FJ-positive neurons were scattered in the ipsilateral CA3. The intensity and number of FJ-positive neurons progressively increased over time with moderate numbers of degenerating neurons in the ipsilateral hippocampal CA3 evident at 24 h. We conclude that astrocyte loss occurs in the hippocampus early after TBI. The data suggest that loss of supporting glial cell may contribute to subsequent neuronal degeneration.
Independent Generation of the 5-Hydroxy-5,6-dihydrothymidin-6-yl Radical and Its Reactivity in Dinucleoside Monophosphates

Hydroxyl radical is a major reactive oxygen species produced by gamma-radiolysis of water or Fenton reaction. It attacks pyrimidine bases and gives the 5-hydroxy-5,6-dihydropyrimidin-6-yl radical as the major product. Here we report the synthesis of all four stereoisomers of 5-hydroxy-6-phenylthio-5,6-dihydrothymidine (T*), which, upon 254 nm UV irradiation, give rise to the 5-hydroxy-5,6-dihydrothymidin-6-yl radical (I). We also incorporated the photolabile radical precursors into dinucleoside monophosphates d(GT*) and d(TT*) and characterized major products resulting from the 254-nm irradiation of these dinucleoside monophosphates. Our results showed that, under anaerobic conditions, the most abundant product emanating from the 254-nm irradiation of d(GT*) and d(TT*) is an abasic site lesion. Products with the thymine portion being modified to thymine glycol and 5-hydroxy-5,6-dihydrothymine were also observed. In addition, we demonstrated that radical I can attack the C8 carbon atom of its 5' neighboring guanine and give rise to a novel cross-link lesion. Moreover, LC-MS/MS results showed that gamma-radiation of d(GT) under anaerobic condition yielded the same type of cross-link lesions.
Neutron flow between nuclei as the principal enhancement mechanism in heavy-ion subbarrier fusion☆

Abstract We have studied the distributions of barriers required to fit experimental heavy-ion fusion cross sections at energies in the barrier region. Best fits were generally obtained with distributions which were flat, broad, and characterized by a sharp cutoff value at the low-energy end. The cutoff barrier is correlated with the separation energies of the valence neutrons and can be associated with the distance at which merged potentials just allow neutrons to flow between the nuclei. These features suggest that fusion initiated by neutron flow is the principal enhancement mechanism and that coupling to collective states plays a secondary role.
Measures of synteny conservation between species pairs.

Measures of conserved synteny are important for estimating the relative rates of chromosomal evolution in various lineages. We present a natural way to view the synteny conservation between two species from an Oxford grid—an r × c table summarizing the number of orthologous genes on each of the chromosomes 1 through r of the first species that are on each of the chromosomes 1 through c of the second species. This viewpoint suggests a natural statistic, which we denote by ρ and call syntenic correlation, designed to measure the amount of synteny conservation between two species. This measure allows syntenic conservation to be compared across many pairs of species. We improve the previous methods for estimating the true number of conserved syntenies given the observed number of conserved syntenies by taking into account the dependency of the numbers of orthologues observed in the chromosome pairings between the two species and by determining both point and interval estimators. We also discuss the application of our methods to genomes that contain chromosomes of highly variable lengths and to estimators of the true number of conserved segments between species pairs.
Posterior lymph heart function in two species of anurans: analysis based on both in vivo pressure–volume relationships by conductance manometry and ultrasound

Rhinella marina and Lithobates catesbeianus have known differences in the capacity to mobilize lymph to stabilize blood volume following dehydration and hemorrhage. The purpose of these experiments was to assess whether there are interspecific differences in basic lymph heart functions. The end diastolic volumes of posterior lymph hearts averaged 10.8 μl kg⁻¹ in R. marina and 7.9-10.8 μl kg⁻¹ in L. catesbeianus by conductance manometry, and 9-32 μl kg⁻¹ in R. marina by ultrasound techniques, which correlated with body mass. Stroke volumes were approximately 20% of end diastolic volumes in both species. Peak systolic pressures and stroke work were correlated with the index of contractility (dP/dt(max)) in both species. Stroke volume was correlated to stroke work but not peak systolic pressure, end diastolic volume or end diastolic pressure indicating the preload variables do not seem to determine stroke volume as would be predicted from Starling considerations of the blood heart. Renal portal elastance (end systolic pressure/stroke volume) an afterload index did not differ interspecifically, and was equivalent to values for systemic flow indices from mice of equivalent ventricular volume. These data, taken together with predictions derived from mammalian models on the effect of high resistance indicate afterload (renal portal pressure), may be important determinants of posterior lymph heart stroke volume. The shape of the pressure-volume loop is different from an idealized version previously reported, and is influenced by end diastolic volume. Our data indicate that increasing end diastolic pressure and volume can influence the loop shape but not the stroke volume. This indicates that lymph hearts do not behave in a Starling Law manner with increased preload volume.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Cardiovascular Disease

Background Rheumatic disease and heart disease share common underpinnings involving inflammation. The high levels of inflammation that characterize rheumatic diseases provide a “natural experiment” to help elucidate the mechanisms by which inflammation accelerates heart disease. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common of the rheumatic diseases and has the best studied relationships with heart disease. Methods A review of current literature on heart disease and RA was conducted. Results Patients with RA have an increased risk of developing heart disease that is not fully explained by traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Therapies used to treat RA may also affect the development of heart disease; by suppressing inflammation, they may also reduce the risk of heart disease. However, their other effects, as in the case of steroids, may increase heart disease risk. Conclusions Investigations of the innate and adaptive immune responses occurring in RA may delineate novel mechanisms in the pathogenesis of heart disease and help identify novel therapeutic targets for the prevention and treatment of heart disease.
Monte-Carlo simulation of the photodetection systems prototype PET scanner using GATE: a validation study

The GATE simulation software was used to model the photodetection systems prototype PET scanner consisting on 4 rings of 44 crystal block detectors containing 160 CsI(NaI) crystal scintillators. The list of single events output by the GATE toolkit was post-processed off-line using an in-house C-code to generate the list of coincidence photons taking into account the measured time resolution, energy resolution, and crystal efficiency of the real scanner. The aim of the study was to validate the simulation against experimentally measured data on the prototype system. Single event and coincidence pair rate plots were compared for simulated and measured data of an F-18 centered point source. The results of low count-rate acquisitions and simulations were found to be in good agreement
Air quality impacts of using overnight electricity generation to charge plug-in hybrid electric vehicles for daytime use

The air quality impacts of replacing 20% of the gasoline powered light duty vehicle miles traveled with plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in the region served by the Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland classic grid are examined. Unutilized, base-load nighttime electricity generating capacity is assumed to charge PHEVs that would subsequently be used during urban commutes. The net impact of this scenario on the emissions of precursors to the formation of ozone is an increase in nitrogen oxide (NOx), volatile organic compound (VOC) and CO emissions from electricity generating units during nighttime hours, and a greater decrease in NOx, VOC and CO from mobile emissions in urban areas during daytime hours. The changes in maximum daily 8 h ozone concentrations, predicted using a regional photochemical model (CAMx), are decreases in ozone concentrations between 2 and 6 ppb that are widespread across the urban areas, and increases in ozone concentrations of up to 8 ppb in highly localized areas. Air quality indicators beyond maximum daily ozone concentration are also evaluated, and in general indicate air quality improvements associated with the use of PHEVs. However, a limited number of air quality indicators worsened with the use of PHEVs, suggesting that overall impacts of the use of PHEVs will be complex.
The Supply Chain Management Processes

Increasingly, supply chain management is being recognized as the management of key business processes across the network of organizations that comprise the supply chain. While many have recognized the benefits of a process approach to managing the business and the supply chain, most are vague about what processes are to be considered, what sub‐processes and activities are contained in each process, and how the processes interact with each other and with the traditional functional silos. In this paper, we provide strategic and operational descriptions of each of the eight supply chain processes identified by members of The Global Supply Chain Forum, as well as illustrations of the interfaces among the processes and an example of how a process approach can be implemented within an organization. Our aim is to provide managers with a framework to be used in implementing supply chain management, instructors with material useful in structuring a supply chain management course, and researchers with a set of opportunities for further development of the field.
Zabdiel Boylston. First American Surgeon of the English Colonies in North America

Zabdiel Boylston (1679–1766), distinguished American surgeon, was born in Brookline, Massachusetts, and educated through apprenticeship to his father, Dr. Thomas Boylston, and Dr. Cutter, another well-known Boston physician. Zabdiel Boylston soon acquired an excellent reputation because of his knowledge, skills, and humanity.Dr. Zabdiel Boylston performed the first surgical operation by an American in the English American colonies. In 1710, he successfully performed an operation for bladder stones, and in 1718, for removal of a breast tumor. Both were firsts in their class performed by an American. All of this information was gathered by historian Francisco Guerra in his American Medical Bibliography in 1962 and popularized by surgeon historian Scott Earle in 1965.Boylston also introduced another great medical and surgical accomplishment on the American continent, inoculation for smallpox in 1721. This medical advancement saved an incredible number of lives. Thus, Boylston stands with the surgical and med...
Conclusions, Action Items, and Predictions

Past and future exploitations of prime energy sources by man might be charted as follows: 1,800 2,030 4,030 1,000,000 (?) Chemical combustion Nuclear fission Nuclear fusion (Coal/fossil fuels) (Uranium, Thorium) (Deuterium, Lithium-6) This time-line is based on the calculated resource depletion periods discussed in Chapter 3 and today’s knowledge of atomic and nuclear physics. Most scientists are quite certain that present knowledge is sufficient to assess the order of magnitude of dormant energies in molecules, atoms, and nuclei. However how to best harvest that energy can change. Cold fusion (Section 6.4) for example, if proven feasible, could alter the above timetable and bring fusion extraction schemes into the picture earlier. “Dark energy” is another mysterious force of nature discovered by astrophysicists and cosmologists, which some day may be understood and perhaps utilized by man. However waiting for a miracle should not delay preparations for the nuclear fixes needed by 2030; we are running out of time.
Droplet actuation in an electrified microfluidic network

This work demonstrates that liquid droplet emulsions in a microchannel can be deformed, decelerated and/or pinned by applying a suitable electrical potential. By concentrating a potential gradient at the corners, we show that different droplets can be passively binned by size and on demand in a branched microfluidic device. The deformation, deceleration, squeezing and release of droplets in a three-dimensional numerical simulation are qualitatively verified by experiments in a PDMS microfluidic device. The forces required for pinning or binning a droplet provide a delicate balance between hydrodynamics and the electric field, and are obtained using appropriate non-dimensional parameters.
Christian Zionism as a Representation of American Manifest Destiny

We swim in a sea of culture. Our culture and its traditions set parameters for perception that still, despite the ‘globalizing’ nature of our world, create in-groups and out-groups, and tell us wha...
The co-evolution of people, plants, and parasites: biological and cultural adaptations to malaria.

The urgency generated by drug-resistant strains of malaria has accelerated anti-malarial drug research over the last two decades. While synthetic pharmaceutical agents continue to dominate research, attention increasinglyhas been directed to natural products. The present paper explores the larger context in which plant use occurs and considers how the selection of medicinal plants has evolved over millennia as part of the larger human effort to mediate illness. First attention is directed to indigenous medicinal plants whose anti-malarial activity is based on an oxidant mode of action, by which intracellular constituents lose electrons (become more electropositive). Next, parallels are drawn between these plant substances and a suite of malaria-protective genetic traits: glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency; haemoglobins S, C and E; α- and β-thalassemias. These erythrocyte anomalies are classic examples of Darwinian evolution, occurring in high frequency in populations who have experienced considerable selective pressure from malaria. Characterized by discrete loci and pathophysiologies, they are united through the phenomenon of increased erythrocyte oxidation. In this model, then, oxidant anti-malarial plants are culturally constructed analogues, and molecular mimics, of these genetic adaptations. To further reinforce the scheme, it is noted that the anti-malarial action of pharmaceutical agents such as chloroquine and mefloquine duplicates both the genetic anomalies and the folk therapeutic models based in oxidant plants. This discussion coheres around a theoretical foundation that relates plant secondary metabolites (oxidants) to plasmodial biochemistry and human biological and cultural adaptations to malaria. Co-evolution provides a theoretical link that illuminates how medical cultures manage the relationships among humans, plants, herbivores and their respective pathogens.
Deputy sheriffs as jail guards: a study of correctional policy orientations and career phases

This article explores the correctional policy orientations and role stress experiences of deputy sheriffs during their career as jail guards. The findings suggest that deputies bring to their jail assignment a variety of correctional policy orientations that vary across career phases. The proportion of deputies committed to a restraint orientation is greater during the later career phases, while the proportion of deputies committed to a rehabilitation orientation is greater during the earlier career phases. For reform and reintegrative orientations, the proportion of deputies is relatively uniform across the career phases. The data also indicate that the degree of role stress is a function of the interaction between career phase and correctional policy orientation. For restraint- and reform-oriented officers a curvilinear pattern of role stress emerges, with higher levels of stress evidenced during the middle phase. In contrast, rehabilitative- and reintegrative-oriented officers exhibit increased role st...
Using Zebrafish as a Model System for Studying the Transgenerational Effects of Dioxin

2,3,7,8 Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) has been associated with many disease states in humans. A rising concern is that exposure early in life can lead to adult toxicity and toxicity in subsequent generations. Juvenile zebrafish exposed to TCDD (50 pg/ml in water; 1 h exposure) at 3 and 7 weeks post fertilization showed toxicity only later in adulthood. We have maintained the offspring of these exposed F0 fish to determine whether we could find adverse affects in the next two generations of F1 and F2 offspring. TCDD exposure produced a significantly higher female:male ratio in all three generations. Scoliosis-like axial skeleton abnormalities, not normally observed in controls, were present in the F1 and F2 generations descended from the treated F0 founders. Egg release and fertilization success were reduced in the TCDD lineage F1 and F2 generations. This reduction in fertility in the TCDD lineage F2 generation could be attributed to alterations in the F2 males. Using zebrafish as a model allowed the simultaneous maintenance of different generations with relatively small space and costs. The zebrafish showed clear signs of transgenerational responses persisting into generations never directly exposed to TCDD.