cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hepatic dysfunction and survival after orthotopic heart transplantation: Application of the MELD scoring system for outcome prediction

Background The prevalence of heart failure (HF) is rising and the only corrective treatment is cardiac transplantation. Advanced HF is associated with congestive hepatopathy and progressive functional and ultrastructural changes of the liver. We hypothesized that hepatic dysfunction is associated with impaired clinical outcome after heart transplantation. Methods Data of 617 adult patients (75% men, mean age 53 ± 12 years, mean BMI 25 ± 4, mean ejection fraction 19 ± 9%) undergoing orthotopic heart transplantation (OHT) were analyzed retrospectively. Deviation from institutional normal ranges was used to define abnormal liver function. Standard Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores were calculated and a modified MELD score with albumin replacing INR (modMELD) was created to eliminate the confounding effects of anti-coagulation. Results Before OHT, AST, ALT and total bilirubin were elevated in 20%, 18% and 29% of the population, respectively. Total protein and albumin were decreased in 25% and 52% of the population, respectively. By 2 months post-transplantation, percentages of individuals with pathologic values decreased significantly, except for ALT, total protein and albumin, all of which took longer to normalize. Individuals with a higher pre-transplantation MELD or modMELD score had worse outcome 30 days post-transplant and reduced long-term survival over a 10-year follow-up. Conclusions In this large, single-center retrospective study, we demonstrated the dynamics of liver dysfunction after cardiac transplantation and that elevated MELD scores indicating impaired liver function are associated with poor clinical outcome after OHT. Thus, pre-operative liver dysfunction has a significant impact on survival of patients after cardiac transplantation.
Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome and epilepsy

Four patients affected with the nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome and recurrent seizures are described and the pertinent literature is reviewed. Three of the patients had multiple basal cell carcinomas and cutaneous nevi, dentigerous cysts, and skeletal anomalies characteristic of the syndrome. The seizures had their onset in childhood and were generalized tonic-clonic in three patients and both tonic-clonic and complex partial in the fourth. Focal neurological deficits were found in only one patient. Pneumoencephalography in two patients and head CT scan in a third were negative. Electroencephalography showed focal spike discharges in one patient, bilateral anterior paroxysmal slowing in another, and nonspecific shifting temporal theta transients in the other two cases. Psychometric testing yielded full-scale scores ranging from 39 to 84. In addition to mental retardation, congenital communicating hydrocephalus, and medulloblastoma, seizures should be included among the neurological manifestations of the nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome.
Conformational changes at the agonist binding domain of the N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor.

Abstract The conformational changes in the agonist binding domain of the glycine-binding GluN1 and glutamate-binding GluN2A subunits of the N-methyl d-aspartic acid receptor upon binding agonists of varying efficacy have been investigated by luminescence resonance energy transfer (LRET) measurements. The LRET-based distances indicate a cleft closure conformational change at the GluN1 subunit upon binding agonists; however, no significant changes in the cleft closure are observed between partial and full agonists. This is consistent with the previously reported crystal structures for the isolated agonist binding domain of this receptor. Additionally, the LRET-based distances show that the agonist binding domain of the glutamate-binding GluN2A subunit exhibits a graded cleft closure with the extent of cleft closure being proportional to the extent of activation, indicating that the mechanism of activation in this subunit is similar to that of the glutamate binding α-amino-5-methyl-3-hydroxy-4-isoxazole propionate and kainate subtypes of the ionotropic glutamate receptors.
Large-Eddy Simulation of Transitional Flow Through a Low-Pressure Turbine Cascade

Subsonic, transitional flow through a low-pressure turbine (LPT) cascade is investigated using high-order compact difference scheme in conjunction with large-eddy simulation (LES). Three-dimensional simulations are performed at chord inlet Reynolds numbers (Re) of 25,000 and 50,000. The inlet Mach number is approximately 0.06. An MPI-based higher-order accurate, Chimera version of the FDL3DI flow solver developed by the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright Patterson Air Force base, is extended for the present turbomachinery application. The implicit solver is based on an approximate factored time-integration method of Beam and Warming. Fourth-order compact-difference formulations are used for discretizing spatial derivatives in conjunction with sixth-order non-dispersive filtering. Solutions are obtained both with and without a sub-grid scale (SGS) model. A dual topology, 16-block, structured grid generated using GridPro is utilized for all simulations. The flow features are examined, and the results for both LES approaches are compared to each other, and with experimental data.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Two-photon spectra of conjugated polymers

Abstract The two-photon absorption (TPA) spectrum of conjugated polymers is related to interacting electrons in Pariser-Parr-Pople (PPP) models with increasing alternation on going from polyenes, to polydiacetylenes, to polysilanes. Intense TPA above the one-photon gap E g is understood in terms of an evenparity state derived from exciting two electrons across E g .
On the rothschild-stein lifting theorem

(1977). On the rothschild-stein lifting theorem. Communications in Partial Differential Equations: Vol. 2, No. 2, pp. 165-191.
The Identity Economics of Female Genital Mutilation

Female genital mutilation (FGM) involves the partial or complete excision of external female genitalia and other damage to the female genital organs. This paper develops the identity economics of FGM as a complement to the agency-cost explanation provided by previous rational choice theorists. We analyze how identity influences the costs and benefits associated with participation in the FGM ritual, offering insight into effective change of the practice. Our analysis also explains some of the counter-intuitive phenomena associated with FGM, such as older circumcised females being the main gatekeepers who perpetuate the practice.
Two-dimensional mapping of implantation and annealing phenomena in GaAs by photoinduced microwave reflectometry

GaAs wafers processed through various stages of active channel formation are characterised by photoinduced microwave reflectometry using 2D maps. A parasitic waveguiding phenomenon is corrected by post-measurement signal processing. Results similar to those seen in previous experiments are repeated, while the added sensitivity of an improved system reveals implant damage, annealing effects and EL2 loss associated with activation. Point defect interactions during the quench of the activation anneal dominate the observed changes in the measurement.
Febrile seizures and the wandering granule cell.

Prolonged febrile seizures in young children have long been suspected to lead to temporal lobe epilepsy, but how this occurs has been unclear. A new study (pages 1271–1278) in rats showing that febrile seizures induce aberrant migration of cells in the temporal lobe suggests this may be a crucial component in the development of epilepsy.
THE EFFECTS OF POVERTY AND EDUCATION ON TEMPOROPARIETAL PERFUSION IN ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE: A RECONSIDERATION OF THE CEREBRAL RESERVE HYPOTHESIS

The cerebral reserve hypothesis proposes that education may provide extra brain reserve that allows an individual to cope longer before Alzheimer's disease (AD) is expressed clinically. Studies of temporoparietal (TP) blood perfusion have been used to support this hypothesis. We reconsider the reserve hypothesis by examining various models of the effects of poverty and its relationship to education on TP perfusion. Of 41 patients with 'probable' AD, 63% evidenced TP hypoperfusion with SPECT. When each variable was examined separately, persons with lower education (OR =4.40,95% CI 1.09-17.73, p = 0.04) and poverty (OR = 5.43, 95% CI 1.37-21.62,p=0.02) were significantly less likely to have TP hypoperfusion. However, neither variable had independent effects when tested simultaneously. Neither additive (poverty + education) nor interactive (poverty x education) explanatory models of TP hypoperfusion had any additional significant explanatory power. The findings suggest that the conclusion that higher education provides a protective effect in AD may be premature, and that there is equally compelling evidence that lower education and/or poverty may diminish cerebral reserve.
Erv26p‐Dependent Export of Alkaline Phosphatase from the ER Requires Lumenal Domain Recognition

Active sorting at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) drives efficient export of fully folded secretory proteins into coat protein complex II (COPII) vesicles, whereas ER-resident and misfolded proteins are retained and/or degraded. A number of secretory proteins depend upon polytopic cargo receptors for linkage to the COPII coat and ER export. However, the mechanism by which cargo receptors recognize transport-competent cargo is poorly understood. Here we examine the sorting determinants required for export of yeast alkaline phosphatase (ALP) by its cargo receptor Erv26p. Analyses of ALP chimeras and mutants indicated that Erv26p recognizes sorting information in the lumenal domain of ALP. This lumenal domain sorting signal must be positioned near the inner leaflet of the ER membrane for Erv26p-dependent export. Moreover, only assembled ALP dimers were efficiently recognized by Erv26p while an ALP mutant blocked in dimer assembly failed to exit the ER and was subjected to ER-associated degradation. These results further refine sorting information for ER export of ALP and show that recognition of folded cargo by export receptors contributes to strict ER quality control.
Geometry and Short Channel Effects of Enhancement-Mode n-Channel GaN MOSFETs on p and n - GaN/Sapphire Substrates

In this paper, we have fabricated and compared the performance of lateral enhancement-mode GaN MOSFETs with linear and circular geometries. Circular MOSFETs show 2 to 4 orders of magnitude lower leakage current than that of linear MOSFETs. We also studied short channel behaviors and found that they are similar to those previously reported Si MOSFET.
Genomic analysis of common chimpanzee major histocompatibility complex class I genes.

To investigate how MHC class I genes have changed in the ~5 million years since chimpanzees and humans diverged, we characterized six genomic fragments ranging in size from 5.1 to 6.1 kb, each containing the complete coding region, introns, and flanking regions of one of the following chimpanzee class I genes: Patr-A, Patr-E, Patr-F, Patr-G, Patr-H, and Patr-J. In humans, these genes are closely linked within the class I region and are representatives of three distinct functional categories of class I genes: the highly polymorphic Ia genes (HLA-A), the conserved Ib genes (HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G), and the class I pseudogenes (HLA-H and HLA-J). Southern blot analysis of chimpanzee and human class I genes produced nearly identical patterns, suggesting that the organization and linkage of these genes differs little in the two species. Comparison of the chimpanzee fragment sequences with their human orthologues revealed structural conservation of these genes yet differences in their degree of functional constraint. This is apparent in the location and nature of the amino acid changes between species and the substantial differences in levels of divergence at functional and nonfunctional sites. Additionally, there is no correlation between patterns of divergence at these sites and intraspecific variation, an observation explained by either appreciable gene conversion or high levels of recombination, the latter unlikely given the observed strong linkage disequilibrium of these loci.
Bone Health and Osteoporosis: The Role of Vitamin K and Potential Antagonism by Anticoagulants

Background: Vitamin K's effects extend beyond blood clotting to include a role in bone metabolism and potential protection against osteoporosis. Vitamin K is required for the γ-carboxylation of osteocalcin. Likewise, this γ-carboxylation also occurs in the liver for several coagulation proteins. This mechanism is interrupted by coumarin-based anticoagulants in both the liver and bone. Methods: A thorough review of the literature on vitamin K, osteocalcin and their role in bone metabolism and osteoporosis, as well as the potential bone effects of anticoagulant therapy was conducted. Conclusions: Epidemiological studies and clinical trials consistently indicate that vitamin K has a positive effect on bone mineral density and decreases fracture risk. Typical dietary intakes of vitamin K are below the levels associated with better BMD and reduced fracture risk; thus issues of increasing dietary intakes, supplementation, and/or fortification arise. To effectively address these issues, large-scale, intervention...
Stable Boundary Layer in Complex Terrain. Part I: Linking Fluxes and Intermittency to an Average Stability Index

AbstractAverage heat and momentum fluxes observed by a network of surface stations during the Hudson Valley Ambient Meteorology Study (HVAMS) were found as functions of a spatially representative bulk Richardson number Ribr. Preferential sites were identified for the occurrence of strong turbulence under mesoscale stability conditions common to all stations. Locally sensed turbulence intermittency depends on the mesoscale flow stability. Nearly continuous turbulence with few long-lived intermittent events occurs when Ribr < Ricr, the critical gradient Richardson number. Less-continuous mixing associated with a larger number of events occurs when Ricr < Ribr < 5, with the weakest turbulence and fewer events observed for Ribr ≫ Ricr. It was found that the need to allow for extra mixing above the conventional critical bulk Richardson number in numerical weather prediction models is primarily a consequence of spatial averaging in a heterogeneous landscape and is secondarily the result of turbulence above Ricr...
Reduced Cortical Gray Matter Volume In Male Adolescents With Substance And Conduct Problems

a b s t r a c t Boys with serious conduct and substance problems (Antisocial Substance Dependence (ASD)) repeat- edly make impulsive and risky decisions in spite of possible negative consequences. Because prefrontal cortex (PFC) is involved in planning behavior in accord with prior rewards and punishments, structural abnormalities in PFC could contribute to a person's propensity to make risky decisions. Methods: We acquired high-resolution structural images of 25 male ASD patients (ages 14-18 years) and 19 controls of similar ages using a 3 T MR system. We conducted whole-brain voxel-based morphome- tric analysis (p < 0.05, corrected for multiple comparisons at whole-brain cluster-level) using Statistical Parametric Mapping version-5 and tested group differences in regional gray matter (GM) volume with analyses of covariance, adjusting for total GM volume, age, and IQ; we further adjusted between-group analyses for ADHD and depression. As secondary analyses, we tested for negative associations between GM volume and impulsivity within groups and separately, GM volume and symptom severity within patients using whole-brain regression analyses. Results: ASD boys had significantly lower GM volume than controls in left dorsolateral PFC (DLPFC), right lingual gyrus and bilateral cerebellum, and significantly higher GM volume in right precuneus. Left DLPFC GM volume showed negative association with impulsivity within controls and negative association with substance dependence severity within patients. Conclusions: ASD boys show reduced GM volumes in several regions including DLPFC, a region highly rele- vant to impulsivity, disinhibition, and decision-making, and cerebellum, a region important for behavioral regulation, while they showed increased GM in precuneus, a region associated with self-referential and self-centered thinking. © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
A case report of atrial fibrillation potentially induced by hydroxycut: a multicomponent dietary weight loss supplement devoid of sympathomimetic amines.

Multicomponent dietary weight loss supplements comprise the single largest segment of herbal preparations available to the public. As a result of limited de novo regulatory oversight, supplement-related adverse events are underreported secondary to the lack of adequate pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic, and clinical data. Here we report the case of an obese 63-year-old caucasian female with a 2-day history of symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) with rapid ventricular response following a 2-week course of therapy with hydroxycut, a multicomponent dietary weight loss supplement devoid of sympathomimetic amines. Upon presentation, the patient received 2 doses of intravenous diltiazem, was loaded with intravenous digoxin, and spontaneously converted to normal sinus rhythm 36 hours following her last dose of the product. Epigallocatechin (EGCG), a principal ingredient in the hydroxycut preparation is the suspected causative component. EGCG blocks the atrial-specific KCNA5 potassium channel. Loss of ...
Closed-Loop Feedback Control Algorithms for Flow Control Over NACA 0015 Airfoil

This study investigates control algorithm for closed-loop feedback control system design aimed at reduction of turbulent flow separation over a NACA 0015 airfoil equipped with leading-edge synthetic jet actuators (SJAs). The algorithm employs system identification technique based on Nonlinear Auto Regressive Moving Average with eXogenous inputs (NARMAX) method to model nonlinear dynamics of the flow and design controller for single-input singleoutput systems. The resulting closed loop response tracks the desired pressure value and significant improvement in the transient response over the open-loop system at high angles of attack is realized.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Tuberculous meningitis in patients with and without human immunodeficiency virus infection

Abstract objective: To characterize the symptoms, signs, laboratory findings, and outcome of culture-proven meningitis due to Mycobacterium tuberculosis in patients with and without human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. design: Retrospective chart review. setting: Urban public general hospital in the United States. patients: Fifteen patients with and 16 without HIV infection. measurements: Demographics, symptoms, physical exam findings, serum sodium, complete blood cell count, CD4+ cell count, cerebrospinal fluid findings, imaging data, and in-hospital mortality. main results: Symptoms, signs, chest radiograph appearance, cerebrospinal fluid cell counts and chemistries, and mortality were similar in both groups (p = NS). Median CD4+ cell counts were lower in HIV-infected patients (median 99/mm 3 , range 7 to 251, versus 384/mm 3 , range 171 to 724 in those without HIV infection, p=0.007). Intracerebral mass lesions were more common in the HIV-infected group (60% versus 14% in the uninfected group, p=0.01), although the presence of a mass did not correlate with focal neurologic deficits, altered level of consciousness, or mortality. conclusion: With the exception of an increased incidence of intracerebral mass lesions in HIV-infected individuals, HIV infection appears to have little impact on the findings and in-hospital mortality of tuberculous meningitis.
Internet Activism & the Party-State in China

The history of Internet activism and Internet control in China is one of mutual adaptation between citizen activists and party authorities. The party-state initially reacted to Internet activism with alarm, but has since built a comprehensive approach combining repressive policing with gentler methods of social management. This approach has evolved in response to the diverse forms of and participants in Internet activism. But the adaptability of the Chinese Internet control regime does not mean that it will root out Internet activism. On the contrary, Internet activism will continue to grow and will itself adapt to the changing forms of control. Comparisons with Russia and the United States highlight how political economy, history, and everyday practice shape the forms of Internet activism and control.
Endoscope-assisted neurovascular decompression of the trigeminal nerve: a cadaveric study

Endoscopes are increasingly used to examine cranial nerves in microvascular decompression (MVD) operations. The superior petrosal vein (SPV) is often purposely sacrificed to gain adequate exposure to the trigeminal nerve (TN) during MVD. Recently, the importance of preserving the SPV has been emphasized due to potential complications associated with its sacrifice. Our focus is to study the ability to operate on the TN with preservation of the SPV by using endoscope-assisted microsurgery. We studied both cerebellopontine angles in seven cadaveric heads which vascular system had been injected with colored silicon material. MVD procedures were simulated using the operative microscope (Moeller-Wedel, Cologne, Germany) and two fixed-angled (0°and 30°) rigid endoscopes (Aesculap, PA, USA). To compare the practical advantages of microscopic MVD (MMVD) and endoscope-assisted MVD (EAMVD), we divided the approaches into four subcategories (microscopic without and with SPV sacrifice and endoscope-assisted without and with SPV sacrifice) and compared the maneuverability associated with each category using a numerical grading system. EAMVD scored significantly better than MMVD both without and with cutting of the SPV (p < 0.001). Only in MMVD did cutting of the SPV improve the maneuverability especially in the superior quadrant of the nerve (p = 0.012). Based on the proposed scoring system, use of the endoscope in an assisted mode facilitates visualization and mobilization of the vascular loop associated with the TN without need to sacrifice the SPV. Sacrifice of the SVP may help maneuverability in the superior quadrant of the nerve in MMVD.
Recurrent abortions in a bulimic: Implications regarding pathogenesis

A case of severe bulimia nervosa of 7 years duration is described in a 33-year old woman who also had 5 pregnancies ending in induced abortion. The woman had onset of anorexia nervosa at age 16 when she went from 130 to 89 pounds. She currently weighed 100 pounds and exhibited several complications of bulimia: esophagitis dental carries chronic fungal pharyngitis and cachexia. She fulfilled the DSM-III-R diagnostic criteria for bulimia nervosa: major depressive episode and borderline personality disorder. In therapy she expressed feelings of disgust with both eating and sexual intercourse both of which she equated with rape. She deliberately sought inner calm by purging and aborting and stated that she obtained peace from the abdominal pain caused by these acts. She was able to forego binging and vomiting for several days after an abortion. The case was discussed in the light of the controversial theory that the act of eating and vomiting is what is significant in bulimia not the food itself. In this sense the body is considered a "transitional object." By extension in this case the act of abortion and expulsion is a strong means of regulating intense affect and preventing overstimulation or impending fragmentation. Thus for this woman pregnancy and abortion is a form of "sexual bulimia."
TDDFT study of the optical properties of Cy5 and its derivatives.

Cyanine dyes which show a very strong π−π* type electronic absorption have attracted attention as active components for optoelectronic applications. In the present study, the optical properties of Cy5 and Cy5-X (X = F, Cl, Br, and I) have been theoretically explored by applying the time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) method. The geometries of the ground state of the studied models have been fully optimized at the B3LYP/LanL2DZ and B3LYP/SDD levels of theory. Based upon the optimized structures of the ground state, the TDDFT calculations were performed to compute the vertical singlet excitation energies and the absorption spectra of the studied species. Compared with the optical properties of Cy5, halogen ions lower the vertical excitation energies and cause the maximum absorption wavelength to be red-shifted for the Cy5-X derivatives. By employing the polarizable continuum model (PCM) approach for all the gas-phase-optimized structures, the influence of solvent effects on the spectra of Cy5 a...
The conceptual basis of function learning and extrapolation: Comparison of rule-based and associative-based models

The purpose of this article is to provide a foundation for a more formal, systematic, and integrative approach to function learning that parallels the existing progress in category learning. First, we note limitations of existing formal theories. Next, we develop several potential formal models of function learning, which include expansion of classic rule-based approaches and associative-based models. We specify for the first time psychologically based learning mechanisms for the rule models. We then present new, rigorous tests of these competing models that take into account order of difficulty for learning different function forms and extrapolation performance. Critically, detailed learning performance was also used to conduct the model evaluations. The results favor a hybrid model that combines associative learning of trained input—prediction pairs with a rule-based output response for extrapolation (EXAM).
The structure of radiative slow-mode shocks

We investigate the structure of slow-mode MHD shocks in a plasma where both radiation and thermal conduction are important. In such a plasma a slow shock dissociates into an extended foreshock, an isothermal subshock, and a downstream radiative cooling region. Our analysis, which is both numerical and analytical, focuses on the nearly switch-off shocks which are generated by magnetic reconnection in a strong magnetic field. These shocks convert magnetic energy into kinetic energy and heat, and we find that for typical flare conditions about f of the conversion occurs in the subshock while the remaining 1/3 occurs in the foreshock. We also find that no stable, steady-state solutions exist for radiative slow shocks unless the temperature in the radiative region downstream of the subshock falls below 105 K. These results suggest that about 2/3 of the magnetic energy released in flare loops is released at the top of the loop, while the remaining 1/3 is released in the legs of the loop.
Changes in Annual Land-Surface Precipitation Over the Twentieth and Early Twenty-First Century

Time trends in annual land-surface precipitation during the twentieth and early twenty-first centuries and their spatial patterns are estimated from gridded (at a 0.5° × 0.5° spatial resolution) ra...
Absence of interaction between X-rays and UV light in inducing ouabain- and thioguanine-resistant mutants in Chinese hamster cells

Chinese hamster ovary cells were irradiated with X-rays at times from 0 to 17 h before being irradiated with ultraviolet (UV) light. No synergism was observed between the two radiations for the production of mutants resistant to either ouabain or 6-thioguanine. These experiments were designed to test whether X-rays induced an error-prone repair system that would increase the frequency of mutations produced by UV light, but no such system was detected.
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells link inflammation to cancer

Our recent work has provided the first evidence that MDSCs promote chronic colonic inflammation and colitis-associated carcinogenesis. Our findings not only reveal a novel function of MDSCs in connecting inflammation to cancer, but also provide a rationale for developing effective therapeutic strategies to subvert inflammation- and tumor-induced immunosuppression.
Bivalent Inhibitors of Protein Tyrosine Kinases

The majority of protein kinase inhibitors described to date are ATP analogues. However, the selectivity of these species is highly suspect, given the enormous number of ATP-dependent processes that transpire in living cells. Inhibitors that target the protein binding site do not suffer from this disadvantage but exhibit comparatively low inhibitory activity. An alternative approach for the design of protein tyrosine kinase inhibitors is described herein. We have constructed species that simultaneously bind to the active site and the SH2 domain of the Src kinase. Since the region of the inhibitor that associates with the SH2 domain coordinates with relatively high affinity, the overall effect is a substantial enhancement in inhibitory potency (230-fold). This design element offers a strategy to overcome the otherwise poor efficacy of peptide-based protein tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Protein–Protein Interactions in High Moisture-Extruded Meat Analogs and Heat-Induced Soy Protein Gels

Two commercial soy protein isolates were made into fibrous meat analogs by high moisture extrusion or into gels by heating and cooling, at varying concentrations and/or temperatures. Protein–protein interactions by extrusion or gelation were investigated through protein solubility studies of raw and finished products. All samples except for extrudates exhibited similar patterns of solubility in four selected extractants. Phosphate buffer (PB) extracted the least amount of protein. Addition of dithiothreitol (DTT) to PB improved protein solubility, indicating the presence of disulfide bonds. PB + Urea and PB + Urea + DTT gave the highest and almost equal amount of extractable proteins from all samples, except for the extrudates from which protein could not be extracted effectively by PB + Urea, implying that disulfide bonding was more pronounced during extrusion than gelation. The results support our hypothesis that soy protein gels and extrudates both have the same types of chemical bonds, namely covalent disulfide bonds and non-covalent interactions. It is the relative proportion of each type of bonds in their structures that differentiates the two with respect to reversibility and structure rigidity. In forming protein gels during heat-induced gelation, non-covalent bonds play a dominant role over disulfide bonds; whereas for forming the fibrous structure of protein extrudates, non-covalent bonds and covalent disulfide bonds are both important.
Accurate Time-Keeping and Accurate Navigation

The synchronization of very accurate clocks is not unique. Discrepancies depend upon the path and method of synchronization. A discrepancy which has not been considered before is the contrast between clock transport and electromagnetic synchronization. Numerical values are given and are shown to be large enough to be measured.
Airway Collapse Due to Unsuspected Epiglottic Cyst

Epiglottic cysts are generally benign lesions, which can affect all age groups. Depending on their location and size they can cause airway obstruction and potentially lead to sudden death. We report the case of a 59-year-old female who was admitted to the hospital following respiratory arrest. Her respiratory symptoms developed soon after the administration of a muscle relaxant, which caused the collapse of an existing epiglottic mass into her airway. Prior to the admission to Cleveland Clinic, the patient required resuscitation and emergency cricothyrotomy. The obstruction was confirmed to be an occlusive epiglottic cyst. This was successfully treated with marsupialization. The patient was immediately decanulated without sequelae. INTRODUCTION Epiglottic cysts are abnormalities of the larynx, which have been classified by their location and by their etiology. They are benign tumors whose clinical presentations vary in accordance to their size and exact location. Although epiglottic cysts have been described in all ages, they seem to be more prevalent in the sixth decade. Early diagnosis and treatment will reduce the incidence of airway complications leading to sudden death. Additionally, avoidance of certain substances such as muscle relaxants in patients known to have these lesions will often be necessary; otherwise, collapse of surrounding structures, that would otherwise maintain a patent airway, will be compromised in the unconscious and relaxed patient. doing well. Figure 2 Cup forceps opening the cyst. Figure 1 Bruise on posterior pharyngeal wall Epiglottic Cyst A57
Regulation of ZAP-70 Activation and TCR Signaling by Two Related Proteins, Sts-1 and Sts-2

T cells play a central role in the recognition and elimination of foreign pathogens. Signals through the T cell receptor (TCR) control the extent and duration of the T cell response. To ensure that T cells are not inappropriately activated, signaling pathways downstream of the TCR are subject to multiple levels of positive and negative regulation. Herein, we describe two related proteins, Sts-1 and Sts-2, that negatively regulate TCR signaling. T cells from mice lacking Sts-1 and Sts-2 are hyperresponsive to TCR stimulation. The phenotype is accompanied by increased Zap-70 phosphorylation and activation, including its ubiquitinylated forms. Additionally, hyperactivation of signaling proteins downstream of the TCR, a marked increase in cytokine production by Sts1/2(-/-) T cells, and increased susceptibility to autoimmunity in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis is observed. Therefore, Sts-1 and Sts-2 are critical regulators of the signaling pathways that regulate T cell activation.
Human monoclonal antibodies to cytokeratins associated with squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract Human lymphocytes from a lymph node draining the tumor-bearing area of a patient with a large primary squamous cell carcinoma of the oral mucosa were fused with the nonproducer mouse myeloma, NS-1, to produce interspecies hybridomas. Of 95 hybridoma culture supernatants tested, 23 contained from 0.5 to 50 μg/ml of human IgM or IgG. Six supernatant fluids containing >15 μg/ml of Ig were tested by indirect immunoperoxidase and immunofluorescence against sections of the autologous carcinoma. Five IgM (λ) monoclonal antibodies stained the cytoplasm of autologous and allogeneic squamous carcinoma cells. All five monoclonal antibodies stained all layers of normal epidermis but each antibody stained the superficial keratin layer most intensely. Two of the five hybridoma antibodies were further tested. Both antibodies stained all types of normal epithelium; a network of fibers characteristic of intermediate filaments in cultured squamous carcinoma cells and cultured fibroblasts; Z lines in skeletal muscle; and axons in peripheral nerve fibers. We conclude that all five IgM monoclonal antibodies recognize cytokeratins associated with the autologous squamous cell carcinoma. Two of the five hybridoma antibodies recognize an antigenic determinant common to all types of intermediate filament proteins. These data indicate that cytokeratins released by squamous carcinoma cells induced an antibody response in this patient.
Insurance status and hospital discharge disposition after trauma: inequities in access to postacute care.

Background:Postacute care is an essential component of medical care aimed at returning trauma patients to their preinjury functional status. Rehabilitation services, skilled nursing facilities, and home care all play a role in facilitating the healing process. Access to such care may be limited base
Desensitization of human platelets by platelet activating factor.

Human platelets are less responsive to PAF at 37° than at 25°. They can be desensitized to the effects of PAF by pre-exposure to small concentrations. In both cases desensitization appears to be accompanied by a decreased affinity of the high affinity site for PAF rather than loss of binding sites. Alteration of a metabolic step subsequent to binding cannot be excluded, but platelets show normal response to a variety of other agents under the conditions resulting in desensitization of platelets to PAF.
On “Resting Position Variables…” Borstad. Phys Ther. 2006;86(4):549-557.

To the Editor: It was with acute interest that I read John Borstad's recent article. Although the link between postural alignment deviations and musculoskeletal impairment has been suggested, it is indeed critical to support this link with objective evidence. The author has attempted to highlight this link by demonstrating an association between postural alignment of the scapula and a structural alteration in pectoralis minor muscle length. Connections between pectoralis minor muscle length and pathomechanical alterations in scapular kinematics,1 between pain and impairment and alterations in scapular kinematics,2 and even directly between postural alignment and impairment3 have been suggested previously. The author reported the methods for validating the …
Submicrometer elemental carbon as a selective measure of diesel particulate matter in coal mines.

A monitoring method for diesel particulate matter was published as Method 5040 by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Organic and elemental carbon are determined by the method, but elemental carbon (EC) is a better exposure measure. The US Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) proposed use of NIOSH 5040 for compliance determinations in metal and nonmetal mines. MSHA also published a rulemaking for coal mines, but no exposure standard was provided. A standard based on particulate carbon is not considered practical because of coal dust interference. Interference may not be a problem if an appropriate size-selective sampler and EC exposure standard are employed. Submicrometer dust concentrations found in previous surveys of nondieselized, underground coal mines were relatively low. If a large fraction of the submicrometer dust is organic and mineral matter, submicrometer EC concentrations would be much lower than submicrometer mass concentrations. Laboratory and field results reported herein indicate the amount of EC contributed by submicrometer coal dust is minor. In a laboratory test, a submicrometer EC concentration of 31 µg m−3 was found when sampling a respirable coal dust concentration over three times the US compliance limit (2 mg m−3). Laboratory results are consistent with surveys of nondieselized coal mines, where EC results ranged from below the method limit of detection to 18 µg m−3 when size-selective samplers were used to collect dust fractions having particle diameters below 1.5 µm—submicrometer EC concentrations were ≈7 µg m−3. In dieselized mines, submicrometer EC concentrations are much higher.
On-line determination of reduced-order models of linear systems via the moving discrete Fourier transform (MDFT)

A method for online determination of reduced-order models (ROM) of stable linear systems is presented. The identification method utilizes the moving discrete Fourier transform (MDFT) to monitor continuously the frequency-domain profile of the system input and output. The input and output MDFTs are used to determine the effect of the system on n (for an nth-order ROM) sinusoidal components in these signals, although the plant input and output need not actually be sinusoidal. The MDFT is computationally more efficient than standard FFT algorithms, when the DFT of an evolving time signal is desired. >
An Examination of Factors and Attitudes that Influence Reporting Fraudulent Claims in an Academic Environment.

The study examined potential factors and attitudes associated with providing fraudulent academic claims. A total of 319 students completed an online survey which involved reading a vignette about an incomplete assignment. Participants reported whether they would contact their instructor to gain an extension, expressed their confidence in the believability of reasons for not completing an assignment, and answered questions about their attitudes toward academic excuse making. The results indicated that academic consequences of failing to turn in an assignment and communication medium did not affect the rate at which participants reported claims. Participants most commonly reported family emergency as a reason, and expressed higher confidence that the instructor would believe this reason if they or a classmate reported it. Furthermore, a survey about attitudes toward academic excuse making suggested that the belief that academic excuse making is not really a form of deception was associated with a greater li...
Experimental congenital syphilis : guinea pig model

Neonates born to female guinea pigs of either a highly susceptible (C4D) or a resistant (Albany) strain, infected prior to or during pregnancy with a single dose of Treponema pallidum, showed in their sera from the first day of life immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies to T. pallidum, circulating immune complexes consisting of IgM antibodies and treponemal antigens, and IgM rheumatoid factor. Although the animals were asymptomatic for a 6-month observation period, several lines of evidence indicated that they were infected in utero. Molecular analysis of whole sera, purified serum IgM fraction, or dissociated immune complexes demonstrated IgM reactivity against one (47 kDa) or more of several T. pallidum peptides (15, 17, 37, 42, 45, and 87 kDa) recognized as integral membrane components. Sequential analysis of the neonates' sera by immunoblot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, using alcohol-treated T. pallidum, T. phagedenis biotype Reiter, and T. vincentii, demonstrated early IgM antibodies followed 3 to 4 months later by IgG2- and IgG1-specific antibodies to T. pallidum. Moreover, an infectivity test done in five rabbits with pooled tissue extracts prepared from liveborn or stillborn animals evoked a seroconversion in two rabbits (reactive Venereal Disease Research Laboratory and fluorescent treponemal antibody tests), suggesting the presence of T. pallidum in the organs. Sera from neonates born to either T. phagedenis biotype Reiter-injected mothers or three normal pregnant females were all serologically negative. The model offers new possibilities for exploration of factors responsible for asymptomatic infection often observed in human congenital syphilis.
Cancellation of capacitor parasitic parameters for noise reduction application

In this paper, a method is proposed to reduce the equivalent series inductance and equivalent series resistance of capacitors. The method is, first, theoretically analyzed and then verified through experiments. This method will show that it can be used for both film capacitors and electrolytic capacitors, greatly improving the performance of both. Applications in practical power converters prove that the proposed technique can significantly reduce high frequency (HF) electromagnetic interference noise. The technique can also be very useful to reduce HF voltage ripple.
An essential two-component signal transduction system in Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

ABSTRACT The bacterial two-component signal transduction systems regulate adaptation processes and are likely to play a role inMycobacterium tuberculosis physiology and pathogenesis. The previous initial characterization of an M. tuberculosis response regulator from one of these systems,mtrA-mtrB, suggested its transcriptional activation during infection of phagocytic cells. In this work, we further characterized the mtrA response regulator fromM. tuberculosis H37Rv. Inactivation ofmtrA on the chromosome of M. tuberculosisH37Rv was possible only in the presence of plasmid-borne functionalmtrA, suggesting that this response regulator is essential for M. tuberculosis viability. In keeping with these findings, expression of mtrA in M. tuberculosis H37Rv was detectable during in vitro growth, as determined by S1 nuclease protection and primer extension analyses of mRNA levels and mapping of transcript 5′ ends. The mtrAgene was expressed differently in virulent M. tuberculosis and the vaccine strain M. tuberculosis var. bovis BCG during infection of macrophages, as determined by monitoring of mtrA-gfp fusion activity. In M. bovis BCG, mtrA was induced upon entry into macrophages. In M. tuberculosis H37Rv, its expression was constitutive and unchanged upon infection of murine or human monocyte-derived macrophages. In conclusion, these results identify mtrA as an essential response regulator gene in M. tuberculosis which is differentially expressed in virulent and avirulent strains during growth in macrophages.
Weight status and weight-management behaviors among Philadelphia high school students, 2007-2011.

Introduction The prevalence of obesity among youth may be stabilizing and even declining in some areas of the United States. The objective of our study was to examine whether the stabilization in obesity prevalence among Philadelphia high school students was accompanied by changes in weight-management behaviors.
De-Risking of Stilbazulenyl Nitrone (STAZN), a Lipophilic Nitrone to Treat Stroke Using a Unique Panel of In Vitro Assays.

In the present study, we used a comprehensive panel of in vitro assays to evaluate the efficacy and safety of stilbazulenyl nitrone (STAZN) as a lead compound to treat acute ischemic stroke. First, we measured neuroprotection in vitro using two different HT22 hippocampal nerve cell assays. Secondly, to de-risk drug development, we used CeeTox analysis with the H4IIE rat hepatoma cell line to determine the acute toxicity profile of STAZN. Third, STAZN was tested in microsomes from four species for measures of metabolic stability. Last, we determined the Ames test genotoxicity profile of STAZN using Salmonella typhimurium TA989 and TA100. In vitro, STAZN was neuroprotective against toxicity induced by iodoacetic acid, and oxytosis-induced glutathione depletion was initiated by glutamate, with an EC50 value of 1–5 μM. Secondly, using CeeTox analysis, the estimated CTox value (i.e., sustained concentration expected to produce toxicity in a rat 14-day repeat dose study) for STAZN was calculated to be 260 μM. Third, the half-life of STAZN in humans, dogs, and rats was 60–78 min. Last, the genotoxicity profile showed that STAZN did not induce bacterial colony growth under any conditions tested, indicating the lack of mutagenicity with this compound. STAZN appears to be a multi-target neuroprotective compound that has an excellent safety profile in both the CeeTox and Ames mutagenicity assays. STAZN may have significant potential as a novel neuroprotective agent to treat stroke and should be pursued in clinically relevant embolic stroke models.
Cross-market linkages between U.S. and Japanese precious metals futures trading

We use a bivariate asymmetric GARCH model to examine patterns of across-market information flows for gold, platinum, and silver futures contracts traded in both the U.S. and Japanese markets. Our results indicate that pricing transmissions for these precious metals contracts are strong across the two markets, but information flows appear to lead from the U.S. market to the Japanese market in terms of returns. There are strong volatility spillover feedback effects across both markets, and their impacts appear to be comparable and similar. There is evidence that intraday pricing information transmission across the two precious metals futures markets is rapid, as offshore trading information can be absorbed in the domestic market within a trading day.