cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of the cation on micelle formation by sulfonates in benzene

Abstract The states of aggregation of dinonylnaphthalene sulfonates of ten cations (Li, Na, Cs, NH4, Mg, Ca, Ba, Zn, Al, and H) have been studied in benzene by fluorescence depolarization, cryoscopy, viscometry, and densimetry. The micelles observed by fluorescence depolarization contained 9 to 14 acid residues each. Their aggregation number was usually independent of concentration and almost independent of the water content of the system, although moisture moderately increased the aggregation of the zinc salt. The relative insensitivity of the sulfonate micelle size to influences of the cation and moisture contrasts sharply with the behavior of the phenyl-stearate soaps, whose aggregation depends critically upon these variables. This indicates that the size of the dinonylnaphthalene sulfonate micelles depends primarily on the geometry of the acid residue. However, the apparent volume of the anion was inversely related to the coordinating tendency of the cation, suggesting that coordination forces are a factor in micelle stability. The acid is associated principally to the dimer, but in the presence of water some larger aggregates are formed. Viscosities of the sulfonate solutions exceeded those predicted by the Einstein relation for spherical particles. This anomaly corresponded to an asymmetry of the order of 2, or a solvation of 10% to 20%. It might also have resulted from surface irregularities of the micelles. Present evidence does not justify a choice among these explanations. Cesium dinonylnaphthalene sulfonate was shown cryoscopically to have an aggregation number of 6 or more. It differed from the other micelle-forming sulfonates, however, in not solubilizing enough Rhodamine B to permit determination of micelle size by the fluorescence depolarization technique. The micelle size found cryoscopically for the magnesium salt agreed with that derived from fluorescence depolarization measurements.
The Theory of Superconductivity in the Tamm-Dancoff Approximation

The Tamm-Dancoff approximation is applied to the interaction Hamiltonian used in the Bogoliubov theory of superconductivity. It is shown that essentially the same compensating equation as obtained by Bogoliubov results from either the requirement thnt no virtual production of electron-hole pairs occurs without phonons, or the requirement that the electron-phonon coupling parameter tends to zero. (auth)
Parallel structure system employing PCA and VQ in the transform domain for facial recognition

Recently, due to emerging critical applications such as biomedical, and security applications, the area of intelligent signal processing has been receiving considerable attention. In this contribution, we present an intelligent signal processing system applied to signal recognition and classification. The system employs different structures, multicriteria and multitransform techniques. In addition, principal component analysis in the transform domain in conjunction with vector quantization is developed which result in further improvement in the recognition accuracy and dimensionality reduction. Experimental results are given which confirm the excellent properties of the proposed approaches.
On optimal scheduling algorithms for small generalized switches

It has been conjectured that MWS-α scheduling policies with α going to zero are heavy-traffic optimal for scheduling in a generalized switch when the objective is to minimize the number of backlogged packets in the system. We examine this conjecture by first deriving optimal or heavy-traffic optimal policies for small switches and then comparing them to MWS- α policies by simulation. Our conclusion is that the conjecture is not true in general, i.e., there are simple topologies for which there exist policies that outperform MWS-α in heavy traffic.
Cultural issues and psychiatric diagnosis: providing a general background for considering substance use diagnoses.

Aims To establish a general context on the topic of cross-cultural diagnosis and suggest how it can be applied to substance use disorders. Methods Critical reviews of the literature on psychiatric diagnosis, cross-cultural issues and the concept of ethnicity were conducted to provide a framework for making specific recommendations for substance use diagnoses. Results Cross-cultural diagnosis remains in a state of flux. Key questions on ethnicity and psychopathology have not yet been fully answered by existing research. The broad use of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM) system world-wide requires a careful look at its cross-cultural applicability. Conclusion For DSM-V, cultural/ethnic issues have to be clearly defined in clear terms that lend themselves to operational definitions. Recommendations should be research-based and testable. Meaningful cultural annotations and a glossary of cultural terms that are applicable in daily clinical practice and not limited to less frequently encountered syndromes (culture-bound) would be highly desirable.
A numerical implementation of Fokas boundary integral approach: Laplace’s equation on a polygonal domain

A recently discovered transform approach allows a large class of PDEs to be solved in terms of boundary and/or contour integrals. We introduce here a spectrally accurate numerical discretization of this approach for the case of Laplace’s equation on a polygonal domain, and compare it against an also spectrally accurate implementation of the traditional boundary integral formulation.
Investigating the Relationship Between the Problem and the Solver: Who Decides What Math Gets Used?

Tasks that are descriptive of a goal state and not prescriptive of the paths students must take to reach it inevitably generate spaces of possible interpretations of givens and goals, as well as possible paths from givens to goals, each featuring elements of a bounded space of mathematical concepts. When a sample comprised of students at elementary and post-baccalaureate levels of schooling was given one of these tasks, the solutions expressed rich and deep understandings of mathematical concepts that were common among groups at both levels of schooling. These findings are less supportive of the foundational metaphor of curriculum in which understandings serve to support the acquisition of more formal mathematics, and more supportive of the notion of a curriculum that “spirals” around central ideas that are revisited at multiple levels of schooling in order to provide learners with greater access to powerful ways of understanding mathematics.
Surface-Wave Damping in Closed Basins

The damping of surface waves in closed basins appears to be due to ( a ) viscous dissipation at the boundary of the surrounding basin, ( b ) viscous dissipation at the surface in consequence of surface contamination, and ( c ) capillary hysteresis associated with the meniscus surrounding the free surface. Boundary layer approximations are invoked in the treatment of ( a ) and ( b ) to reproduce and extend results that have been obtained previously by more cumbersome procedures. The surface film is assumed to act as a linear, viscoelastic surface and may be either insoluble or soluble; however, the relaxation time for the equilibrium of soluble films is neglected relative to the period of the free-surface oscillations. Capillary hysteresis is analysed on the hypothesis that both the advance and recession of a meniscus are opposed by constant forces that depend only on the material properties of the three-phase interface. The theoretical results for the logarithmic decrements of gravity waves in circular and rectangular cylinders are compared with the decay rates observed by Case & Parkinson and by Keulegan, which typically exceeded the theoretical value based on wall damping alone by factors of between two and three. It is concluded that both surface films and capillary hysteresis can account for, and are likely to have contributed to, these observed discrepancies. The theoretical effect of a surface film on wind-generated gravity waves is examined briefly and is found to be consistent with the observation that the addition of detergent to water can increase the minimum wind speed (required to produce waves) by one order of magnitude.
Vacillation, indecision and hesitation in moment-by-moment decoding of monkey motor cortex

When choosing actions, we can act decisively, vacillate, or suffer momentary indecision. Studying how individual decisions unfold requires moment-by-moment readouts of brain state. Here we provide such a view from dorsal premotor and primary motor cortex. Two monkeys performed a novel decision task while we recorded from many neurons simultaneously. We found that a decoder trained using 'forced choices' (one target viable) was highly reliable when applied to 'free choices'. However, during free choices internal events formed three categories. Typically, neural activity was consistent with rapid, unwavering choices. Sometimes, though, we observed presumed 'changes of mind': the neural state initially reflected one choice before changing to reflect the final choice. Finally, we observed momentary 'indecision': delay forming any clear motor plan. Further, moments of neural indecision accompanied moments of behavioral indecision. Together, these results reveal the rich and diverse set of internal events long suspected to occur during free choice.
Rheology of Asphalt Cements at 60 C (140 F)

STUDIES ON THE VISCOSITY OF 18 ASPHALTS AT 60 C (140 F) SHOWED THAT THE RESULT DEPENDS UPON THE APPARATUS AND PROCEDURE USED. THE FLORIDA CAPILLARY METHOD AT CONSTANT SHEAR RATE GIVES SIGNIFICANTLY HIGHER VALUES THAN DOES THE CANNON-MANNING METHOD. FURTHERMORE, IT WAS SHOWN THAT, ALTHOUGH SHEAR THINNING MAY RESULT FOR CERTAIN ASPHALTS WHEN RUN IN CANNON-PRESSURE INSTRUMENTS, THERE MAY ALSO BE COMPENSATING EFFECTS OF PRESSURE WHICH CAN RAISE THE VISCOSITY. THESE VARIATIONS ARE ATTRIBUTED TO BOTH DIFFERENCE IN THE FLOW MODE (TRANSIENT OR STEADY STATE) AND TO EFFECTS OF THE IMPOSED PRESSURES. /AUTHOR/
FOG-2, a Cofactor for GATA Transcription Factors, Is Essential for Heart Morphogenesis and Development of Coronary Vessels from Epicardium

Abstract We disrupted the FOG-2 gene in mice to define its requirement in vivo. FOG-2 −/− embryos die at midgestation with a cardiac defect characterized by a thin ventricular myocardium, common atrioventricular canal, and the tetralogy of Fallot malformation. Remarkably, coronary vasculature is absent in FOG-2 −/− hearts. Despite formation of an intact epicardial layer and expression of epicardium-specific genes, markers of cardiac vessel development ( ICAM-2 and FLK-1 ) are not detected, indicative of failure to activate their expression and/or to initiate the epithelial to mesenchymal transformation of epicardial cells. Transgenic reexpression of FOG-2 in cardiomyocytes rescues the FOG-2 −/− vascular phenotype, demonstrating that FOG-2 function in myocardium is required and sufficient for coronary vessel development. Our findings provide the molecular inroad into the induction of coronary vasculature by myocardium in the developing heart.
Mutational Analysis of a Conserved Glutamic Acid Required for Self-Catalyzed Cross-Linking of Bacteriophage HK97 Capsids

The capsid of bacteriophage HK97 is stabilized by ∼400 covalent cross-links between subunits which form without any action by external enzymes or cofactors. Cross-linking only occurs in fully assembled particles after large-scale structural changes bring together side chains from three subunits at each cross-linking site. Isopeptide cross-links form between asparagine and lysine side chains on two subunits. The carboxylate of glutamic acid 363 (E363) from a third subunit is found ∼2.4 A from the isopeptide bond in the partly hydrophobic pocket that contains the cross-link. It was previously reported without supporting data that changing E363 to alanine abolishes cross-linking, suggesting that E363 plays a role in cross-linking. This alanine mutant and six additional substitutions for E363 were fully characterized and the proheads produced by the mutants were tested for their ability to cross-link under a variety of conditions. Aspartic acid and histidine substitutions supported cross-linking to a significant extent, while alanine, asparagine, glutamine, and tyrosine did not, suggesting that residue 363 acts as a proton acceptor during cross-linking. These results support a chemical mechanism, not yet fully tested, that incorporates this suggestion, as well as features of the structure at the cross-link site. The chemically identical isopeptide bonds recently documented in bacterial pili have a strikingly similar chemical geometry at their cross-linking sites, suggesting a common chemical mechanism with the phage protein, but the completely different structures and folds of the two proteins argues that the phage capsid and bacterial pilus proteins have achieved shared cross-linking chemistry by convergent evolution.
A review of studies comparing methods for determining transcranial magnetic stimulation motor threshold: observation of movement or electromyography assisted.

BACKGROUND: Early in the development of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as a research tool, scientists developed the concept of motor threshold (MT) as a method of quantifying dose and establishing safety. Neurophysiologists determined the MT with the aid of peripheral electromyography (EMG). More recently, clinicians started substituting the EMG with observed movements (OM) of the hand or digits. It is unclear whether the two approaches (EMG and OM) reach similar conclusions about an individual’s cortical excitability and when best to use each approach.OBJECTIVE:To review TMS studies directly comparing the EMG and OM MT methods.DESIGN:A systematic search of the literature on Medline from January 1995 through April 2008.RESULTS:Four articles directly compared the two approaches, reaching different and opposing findings.CONCLUSION S:The evidence supporting the substitution of EMG with OM is sparse and conflicting. Clinicians stimulating at or near safety guidelines should use the EMG method.
Are CEOs Charged for Stock-Based Pay? An Instrumental Variable Analysis ⁄

Using instrumental variables approach, this paper investigates whether an increase in stockbased compensation for CEOs is associated with a reduction in the dollar value of all other CEO compensation, as agency theory would suggest. I find that, on the contrary, larger stock-based compensation is on average accompanied by larger other components of CEO compensation. Similar results are obtained when focusing on option grants alone. The analysis of the compensation practices in corporations that have voluntarily started to include option grants into income statements shows little support for the hypothesis that accounting methods aect the
Two-Dimensional Diffusion of Prodan on Self-Assembled Monolayers Studied by Fluorescence Recovery after Photobleaching

Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) is used to determine diffusion constants for the dye molecule 6-propionyl-2-dimethylaminonaphthalene (prodan) on silica and on a variety of organic monolayers grafted onto silica. Similar diffusion constants of ∼2 × 10-7 cm2/s are found for prodan on chlorotrimethylsilane (CTS) based self-assembled monolayers and on silanated poly(ethylene glycol) based monolayers. The similar diffusion constants are intriguing given the different surface free energies of these surfaces. No dye recovery is observed on octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS) based monolayers or on clean silica surfaces. No significant change in the diffusion constant is observed with varying relative humidity on any of the surfaces. A mechanism for the diffusion of dye on these four surfaces is discussed. A simple surface energy argument may explain why diffusion is extremely limited on both very hydrophobic and very hydrophilic surfaces, but is allowed on surfaces with intermediate polarities. Addi...
Decoration supplementation and male-male competition in the great bowerbird (Ptilonorhynchus nuchalis): a test of the social control hypothesis.

Many animals use signals to communicate their social status to conspecifics, and the social control hypothesis suggests that social interactions maintain the evolutionary stability of status signals: low-quality individuals signal at a low level to prevent high-quality individuals from “punishing” them. I examined whether the numbers of decorations at bowers are socially controlled in the great bowerbird (Ptilonorhynchus nuchalis). In two populations, I supplemented males with decorations to determine whether they (a) rejected supplemental decorations and (b) experienced increased bower destruction from rivals. In contrast to the social control hypothesis, males in both populations accepted most supplemental decorations. Though the mean destruction rate did not increase during supplementation in either population, one of the study populations (Townsville) exhibited a negative correlation between the numbers of decorations naturally displayed at bowers and the change in destruction rate during the experiment. Townsville males that naturally had few decorations at their bowers also had more decorations stolen by other males during supplementation than males that naturally had many decorations. These results suggest that the numbers of decorations at bowers are an honest signal of the male's ability to defend his display site from rivals in at least one population of the great bowerbird (Townsville), but they do not support the social control hypothesis because males at both sites failed to limit signal expression. I discuss how the external nature of bower decorations and their availability in the environment may influence the costs and benefits of decoration theft and social control.
Are Esophageal Pressure Measurements Important in Clinical Decision-Making in Mechanically Ventilated Patients?

Low-tidal-volume ventilation strategies are clearly beneficial in patients with acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome, but the optimal level of applied positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) is uncertain. In patients with high pleural pressure on conventional ventilator settings, under-inflation may lead to atelectasis, hypoxemia, and exacerbation of lung injury through “atelectrauma.” In such patients, raising PEEP to maintain a positive transpulmonary pressure might improve aeration and oxygenation without causing over-distention. Conversely, in patients with low pleural pressure, maintaining a low PEEP would keep transpulmonary pressure low, avoiding over-distention and consequent “volutrauma.” Thus, the currently recommended strategy of setting PEEP without regard to transpulmonary pressure is predicted to benefit some patients while harming others. Recently the use of esophageal manometry to identify the optimal ventilator settings, avoiding both under-inflation and over-inflation, was proposed. This method shows promise but awaits larger clinical trials to assess its impact on clinical outcomes.
Energy Models and Cost Models for Water Pollution Control

The pollution control measures needed today and in the future should be controlled by the consideration of capital costs, operation and maintenance costs (O&M costs), and total energy use. A considerable effort to compile these costs has been made by the Federal and local governments, and consulting engineering firms. Based on their data banks, the mathematical models of pollution control equipment costs, O&M costs, electrical energy consumptions and total heating requirements have been developed for simplifying environmental engineers’ decision making process on optimization and selection of pollution control technologies.
Binomial and factorial congruences for Fq[t]

Abstract We present several elementary theorems, observations and questions related to the theme of congruences satisfied by binomial coefficients and factorials modulo primes (or prime powers) in the setting of polynomial ring over a finite field. When we look at the factorial of n or the binomial coefficient ‘ n choose m ’ in this setting, though the values are in a function field, n and m can be usual integers, polynomials or mixed. Thus there are several interesting analogs of the well-known theorems of Lucas, Wilson etc. with quite different proofs and new phenomena.
Advocacy and Political Behavior

■ This paper explores some of the methodological implications of the role of the social worker as advocate, especially in the case when advocacy requires political behavior. Although manipulation is proscribed in social work, professional purity may be most costly to the victims of social problems. Political behavior is, in any case, inevitable and guidelines must be developed for its use. Four are suggested here: ( ? ) who benefits and who loses by the political behavior, (2) who is subject to or the target of the political activity, (3) which values are inherent in the substantive end or principle that occasions the political behavior, and (4) what is the nature of the act itself? Circumstances that impinge on the effectiveness of political behavior are suggested. ■
New UK vet school

WE are a small, inherently tight knit profession with a well-established employment structure. Since I qualified (in 1973) there have almost always been a sufficient number and variety of jobs available to meet demands. Any shortfall in applicants for posts has generally been met by increased numbers of overseas vets. Equilibrium has been further achieved by those who choose to leave the profession or …
THE EFFECTS OF GENE FLOW ON REINFORCEMENT.

We explore the possibility that differences in the pattern of gene flow between populations may affect the evolution of reinforcement by comparing pairs of populations undergoing one-way migration versus symmetric mi- gration. The case of symmetric migration is modeled by a two-island model, where the two populations exchange equal proportions of migrants each generation. One-way migration is modeled by a continent-island model, where migration is in one direction from a large continental population with a fixed genotype to an island population whose genotype frequencies can vary. Hybrid inviability is assumed to be caused by epistatic interactions between background loci. We examine the spread of an introduced preference allele for a previously unpreferred male trait that characterizes one of the populations. Computer simulations indicate that with a weak introduced preference, reinforcement is possible under a wide range of parameter values in a symmetric migration model but cannot occur in a one-way migration model. Reinforcement with one-way migration can occur only with a very strong introduced preference and very strong selection against hybrids. Our results suggest that the speciation of a peripheral isolate, which undergoes essentially one-way migration, may be difficult to complete if secondary contact occurs before reproductive isolation is fully developed.
Alveolar instability with inspired 100% O 2 in the newborn lung

Right to left shunt determinations in newborn infants have suggested that alveoli are unstable with inspired oxygen concentrations of 100%. Theoretically alveoli with very low VA/Q ratios should collapse with inspired 100% oxygen, resulting in a decrease in alveolar-arterial nitrogen difference (A-ADN2) and an increase or no change in alveolar-arterial oxygen difference (AaDO2), and an increase or no change in shunt. Four newborn lambs were ventilated at constant tidal volume initially with 40% oxygen for 1½ hours, then with 100% oxygen for 3 hours and then returned to 40% oxygen for 1½ hours. Arterial and mixed venous blood was sampled at the end of each period and analyzed for PO2, PN2, PCO2. Alveolar PO2 and PN2 were calculated. Three lambs (Table) had a large number of alveoli with very low VA/Q. Decrease in a a-ADN2, with an increase in A-aDO2 and shunt, indicates conversion of alveoli with very low VA/Q to alveoli with collapse. One lamb had a small number of alveoli with low VA/Q. In this animal no changes were anticipated nor found with 100% O2 inhalation. It is concluded that in the newborn period, alveoli with very low VA/Q may collapse with inspired 100% O2.
COPOLYMERIZATION OF TRI-n-BUTYLTIN ACRYLATE AND METHACRYLATE WITH FUNCTIONAL GROUP MONOMERS—CROSSLINKING AND BIOTOXICITY OF COPOLYMERS

An approach to obtaining thermoset organotin polymers, which permits control of crosslinking sites and of polymer properties, is reported. Tri-n-butyltin acrylate and methacrylate were prepared and copolymerized with vinyl monomers containing an epoxy or a hydroxyl group. The experimental values of reactivity ratios were used to indicate the distribution of the units of a particular monomer in the polymer chain. Thus, a suitable copolymer containing either the blocks of organotin monomer units, blocks of functional-group-containing vinyl monomer units, or randomly distributed units of either monomer could be selected as desired. Varying crosslink density and rigidity were achieved with a number of aliphatic and aromatic amines and also with uranyl nitrate catalyst. Interestingly, evidence for the autocatalytic effect of organotin groups was observed in the self-curing of copolymers. Biotoxicity data were obtained by studying the inhibition of marine and soil bacteria and a soil fungus. The nature and degree of crosslinking have significant effect on the size of inhibition zones. The significance of amine and hydroxyl groups present to the rate of hydrolysis and leaching of organotin ester is indicated.
The Marketing Mix, the Retailing Mix and the Use of Retail Strategy Continua

The management of the marketing function in a retail store environment requires as much skill and care as that needed for the development and marketing of consumer and industrial products. Through the evolved concept of the retailing mix, it will be shown that logically-related retail strategy continua can be of value in the formation and adjustment of retailer marketing plans. How these continua relate to the development of a retail mix will be demonstrated. Also, the value of the continua in competitor evaluation and in the audit of retailer operations is highlighted.
POLAROID : Stratégie logistique globale et adaptation aux marchés locaux

Cette communication presentee au Colloque ISLI 1999 expose les points cles de la strategie globale de Polaroid et apporte temoignage des problemes rencontres lors de sa mise en place dans diverses regions du monde. Les principales difficultes ont trait a l’integration des activites au niveau mondial, a la particularisation des reponses logistiques par type de client, a l’optimisation des reseaux, aux strategies de differenciation retardee et a l’impact de nouveaux systemes d’information tels que SAP.
A non-invasive lung monitoring sensor with integrated body-area network

This paper discusses the design and testing of a new robust system for in-situ continuous monitoring of the lung's condition. The system is composed of a body worn medical sensor with an accompanying wireless body area network (BAN) for remote health monitoring. The lung sensor consists of 17 electrodes, and operates at 40MHz. It aims to approximate the dielectric constant of the underlying lung tissue independent of variations in the outer layers (skin, fat, muscle and bone). Concurrently, the wireless BAN is used to transmit the measured dielectric constant to a mobile device via Bluetooth for continuous remote healthcare monitoring. In this paper, we present the design and experimental validation of the proposed lung sensor integrated with wireless BAN data link.
Evaluation of recovery and monitoring methods for parasitoids released against emerald ash borer

Emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire, EAB) is an invasive forest pest and the target of an extensive biological control program designed to mitigate EAB-caused ash (Fraxinus spp.) mortality. Since 2007, hymenopteran parasitoids of EAB from northeastern Asia have been released as biological control agents in North America, including Oobius agrili (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), an egg parasitoid; Tetrastichus planipennisi (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), a larval endoparasitoid; and Spathius agrili (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a larval ectoparasitoid. Following parasitoid releases in new locations, methods currently used to document presence and establishment and to monitor dispersal of parasitoids in the field were simultaneously evaluated, including destructive sampling of entire trees and deployment of egg sentinel logs (ESLs), egg sentinel cups (ESCs), larval sentinel logs (LSLs), and yellow pan traps (YPTs). All three parasitoids were recovered using YPTs and destructive sampling of trees. Spathius agrili was the only species to be recovered using LSLs, however, results indicate YPTs were as effective as LSLs. YPTs were also as effective as destructive sampling of entire trees for O. agrili and S. agrili detection. YPT trap catches were significantly associated with egg parasitism on sampled trees by O. agrili, but not for larval parasitoids. Additional research indicated YPTs are effective in recovering O. agrili and T. planipennisi at distances as great as 20 m from release points. It is therefore recommended that YPTs be used as the preferred method for parasitoid recovery as the other methods are much more labor intensive and prone to difficulties.
Understanding magnetotransport signatures in networks of connected permalloy nanowires

The change in electrical resistance associated with the application of an external magnetic field is known as the magnetoresistance (MR). The measured MR is quite complex in the class of connected networks of single-domain ferromagnetic nanowires, known as ``artificial spin ice,'' due to the geometrically induced collective behavior of the nanowire moments. We have conducted a thorough experimental study of the MR of a connected honeycomb artificial spin ice, and we present a simulation methodology for understanding the detailed behavior of this complex correlated magnetic system. Our results demonstrate that the behavior, even at low magnetic fields, can be well described only by including significant contributions from the vertices at which the legs meet, opening the door to new geometrically induced MR phenomena.
Letter by Horowitz Regarding Article, “Protein Interactions at Endothelial Junctions and Signaling Mechanisms Regulating Endothelial Permeability”

The recent review by Komarova et al1 on Protein Interactions at Endothelial Junctions and Signaling Mechanisms Regulating Endothelial Permeability addresses a central topic in vascular biology that plays an important role in diabetes mellitus, cancer, and other common disorders. However, several statements in the review overlook evidence that does not support the views they promote: 1. Adherens junctions are presented as the “gatekeeper of the endothelial barrier,” practically the only junction that is acutely responsive to external stimuli by undergoing turnover. This …
Glycolysis-Optimized Conditions Enhance Maintenance of Regenerative Integrity in Mouse Spermatogonial Stem Cells during Long-Term Culture.

The application of spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) transplantation for regenerating male fertility requires amplification of SSC number in vitro during which the integrity to re-establish spermatogenesis must be preserved. Conventional conditions supporting proliferation of SSCs from mouse pups have been the basis for developing methodology with adult human cells but are unrefined. We found that the integrity to regenerate spermatogenesis after transplantation declines with advancing time in primary cultures of pup SSCs and that the efficacy of deriving cultures from adult SSCs is limited with conventional conditions. To address these deficiencies, we optimized the culture environment to favor glycolysis as the primary bioenergetics process. In these conditions, regenerative integrity of pup and adult SSCs was significantly improved and the efficiency of establishing primary cultures was 100%. Collectively, these findings suggest that SSCs are primed for conditions favoring glycolytic activity, and matching culture environments to their bioenergetics is critical for maintaining functional integrity.
Imaging Modalities in the Diagnosis of Recurrent or Metastatic Thyroid Cancer

The imaging of thyroid cancer takes a multimodality approach, and this is particularly the case for the workup of recurrent and metastatic disease. Ultrasound can be used to look for regional nodes or evaluate palpable lesions. Cross-sectional imaging such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance [MR] can look for disease in the neck as well as throughout the body. Total body iodine scans with low-dose 123I or 131I can be used for evaluating residual functioning tissue following total thyroidectomy prior to radioiodine ablation and can also be used to detect nodal and distant metastatic disease in high-risk patients; some iodine-avid metastases may not be visible on CT or MR imaging. In high-risk patients, total body iodine (TBI) scans can help determine the appropriate 131I dose for radioablation. TBI scans can also be used to evaluate patients suspected of having recurrent disease following ablation (e.g., rising serum thyroglobulin). Tumors that are not visible on TBI in spite of elevated thyroglobulin may have become less well differentiated and may no longer metabolize iodide. These patients may benefit from fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) scanning, since FDG accumulates in dedifferentiated tumors.
Pathways and supply of dissolved iron in the Amundsen Sea (Antarctica)

Numerous coastal polynyas fringe the Antarctic continent and strongly influence the productivity of Antarctic shelf systems. Of the 46 Antarctic coastal polynyas documented in a recent study, the Amundsen Sea Polynya (ASP) stands out as having the highest net primary production per unit area. Incubation experiments suggest that this productivity is partly controlled by the availability of dissolved iron (dFe). As a first step toward understanding the iron supply of the ASP, we introduce four plausible sources of dFe and simulate their steady spatial distribution using conservative numerical tracers. The modeled distributions replicate important features from observations including dFe maxima at the bottom of deep troughs and enhanced concentrations near the ice shelf fronts. A perturbation experiment with an idealized drawdown mimicking summertime biological uptake and subsequent resupply suggests that glacial meltwater and sediment-derived dFe are the main contributors to the pre-bloom dFe inventory in the top 100m of the ASP. The sediment-derived dFe depends strongly on the buoyancy-driven overturning circulation associated with the melting ice shelves (the ‘meltwater pump') to add dFe to the upper 300m of the water column. The results support the view that ice shelf melting plays an important direct and indirect role in the dFe supply and delivery to polynyas such as the ASP.
Ultrasensitive optical imaging with lanthanide lumiphores

In principle, the millisecond emission lifetimes of lanthanide chelates should enable their ultrasensitive detection in biological systems by time-resolved optical microscopy. In practice, however, lanthanide imaging techniques have provided no better sensitivity than conventional fluorescence microscopy. Here, we identified three fundamental problems that have impeded lanthanide microscopy: low photon flux, inefficient excitation, and optics-derived background luminescence. We overcame these limitations with a new lanthanide imaging modality, transreflected illumination with luminescence resonance energy transfer (trLRET), which increases the time-integrated signal intensities of lanthanide lumiphores by 170-fold and the signal-to-background ratios by 75-fold. We demonstrate that trLRET provides at least an order-of-magnitude increase in detection sensitivity over that of conventional epifluorescence microscopy when used to visualize endogenous protein expression in zebrafish embryos. We also show that trLRET can be used to optically detect molecular interactions in vivo. trLRET promises to unlock the full potential of lanthanide lumiphores for ultrasensitive, autofluorescence-free biological imaging.
Unsuspected pheochromocytoma incidentally found on chest CT

Abstract A 51-year-old woman with history of migraine headaches and intermittent nausea, vomiting, palpitations, and diaphoresis presented to the emergency department with hypertensive emergency 1 month after starting a beta blocker for migraine prophylaxis. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the chest incidentally revealed a large abdominal mass in the area of the left adrenal gland. Iodine-123 metaiodobenzylguanidine scan imaging showed localized uptake into the left adrenal gland. Along with imaging results, laboratory testing confirmed the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. The patient was treated with blood pressure control, specifically alpha blockade, and surgical excision of the mass. This case displays a typical clinical presentation of pheochromocytoma coupled with atypical radiographic size and appearance.
How to do basic medical research

The following editorial is a reprint of an article inLegacies in the Study of Behavior: The Wisdom and Experience of Many (edited by Joseph Warren Cullen and published by Charles C Thomas (1975) Springfield, Illinois) by Irvine H. Page, born 1901, a graduate of Cornell Medical College, and editor of “Modern Medicine.” The life of Dr. Page has been an enviable one and extremely colorful, reminiscent of the more comprehensive, less technically oriented careers of a bygone era. Beginning as Director of the Chemical Division of the Kaiser Wilhelm Institute in Munich from 1928 to 1931, later Director of the Research Division of the Cleveland Clinic Foundation (1945–1966), he pioneered in the mechanism of arteriosclerosis and hypertension, the isolation of serotonin, and in the research on angiotensin. Having been a successful experimental investigator as well as an eminent clinician, he speaks with a direction and brevity from a long experience. Because of the great value of his counsel, his article is reprinted here with his permission and that of the editor, J. W. Cullen, and the publisher Payne Thomas.
Utilization of Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Renal Cell Carcinoma Brain Metastases.

Abstract Background Because renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has been traditionally considered a “radioresistant” histology, it may be advantageous to treat brain metastases (BMs) with ablative dosing by means of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). This is the first known analysis evaluating utilization of SRS for RCC BMs in the United States. Methods The National Cancer Data Base was queried (2005-2014) for metastatic RCC and delivery of intracranial radiotherapy. Patients were stratified into groups receiving either SRS or non-SRS treatment. Multivariable logistic regression ascertained factors associated with SRS administration. Secondary exploratory Kaplan-Meier overall survival (OS) analysis without and with propensity matching, along with Cox proportional hazards modeling evaluated predictors of OS. Results Of 2312 patients, 813 (35%) received SRS, whereas 1499 (65%) received non-SRS radiotherapy. Use of SRS increased from 27% in 2005 to 44% in 2014. Patients receiving SRS tended to reside farther from the treating facility, received therapy at academic centers, and underwent chemotherapy and/or nephrectomy (P Conclusions SRS for RCC BMs is rising; this is driven by multiple socioeconomic disparities, which needs to be better addressed to ensure high-quality care for all patients. Treatment with SRS was associated with higher survival; further prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
An Imputation System for Taxing Foreign-Source Income

This article is the basis for part of the discussion in Chapter 18, which deals with Tax Policy, of the following book by Sam Thompson: The Obama vs. Romney Debate on Economic Growth, A Citizen’s Guide to the Issues. The book will be published by iUniverse in September 2012. Congress should follow the original proposal of the Co-Chairs of the President’s Deficit Reduction Commission and (1) adopt an imputation system for taxing foreign source income, and (2) use the revenues gained from the elimination of the current deferral system to lower the tax rate for all U.S. corporations and for foreign corporations doing business in the U.S. Two significant benefits would flow from an imputation system: (1) the current un-level tax playing field, which prefers foreign investment over U.S. investment, would be made level, and (2) U.S. multinational corporations would no longer have an incentive to abuse the transfer pricing rules by allocating excessive income to foreign subsidiaries or to enter into abusive transactions deflecting excessive expenses to U.S. parents. Such abuses are significant in the current deferral system and would be even greater with a territorial system, which the Commission ultimately proposed. Also, Governor Romney and the Republicans on the House Ways Committee have proposed that we adopt a territorial system.
ROLE OF T-LYMPHOCYTES IN THE RESOLUTION OF ENDOTOXIN-INDUCED LUNG INJURY

An acute neutrophilic lung injury was compared in Balb/c normal and nu/nu (nude) mice to assess the role of T lymphocytes in the resolution of acute pulmonary neutrophilic inflammation following the administration of endotoxin. Maximal neutrophilic infiltration occurred on day 1 post-endotoxin treatment and declined to near normal levels by day 5. In contrast, the percentage of lymphocytes in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid increased from 1.8% on day 1 post-endotoxin to greater than 11% on days three and five, during which time neutrophil resolution was occurring. On days 1–5 after endotoxin administration, approximately 40% of the CD4 lymphocytes expressed the cell surface activation marker, CD69. Despite being CD69+, CD4 cells did not express the high affinity IL-2 receptor chain, CD25, to any significant extent on any of the days studied. To assess the contribution of T cells to the rate of clearance of neutrophils from the BAL, normal and nude Balb/c mice were compared for the percentage of neutrophils following nasal administration of endotoxin. Endotoxin-treated nude mice did not demonstrate significant differences in either the total white blood cell counts or in the clearance of neutrophils from the BAL, as compared to normal Balb/c mice. These data indicate that the influx of activated T cells during the resolution of neutrophilic pneumonitis does not contribute to the rate of neutrophil clearance during acute lung injury.
Experimental Study of H2O-LH2 and H2O-LN2 Heat Exchangers

At the Nuclear Rocket Development Station in Nevada, modifications are currently being planned for the Rover test facility at Test Cell C. These plans incorporate heat exchangers to provide ambient temperature hydrogen and nitrogen gas. Since the required quantities of these gases are large, gas storage was not economically feasible. The proposed heat exchangers utilize hot water as the energy source. Water was chosen because of its availability and inherent safety. Since this type of heat exchanger, with ice formation, had not been used previously, a model was constructed and tested. The results of this investigation are discussed herein.
Health policy and ethnic diversity in older Americans. Dissonance or harmony

The rapid growth and diversity of the older population have long-term implications for health care policies in the United States. Current policies designed for a homogeneous population are increasingly obsolete. To ameliorate obstacles that handicap many ethnic minority elders and to provide equal access to adequate and acceptable health care, several factors need to be considered. Enhanced data collection and analytic techniques are needed. The effects of race or ethnicity must be separated from other biologic, environmental, socioeconomic, cultural, and temporal factors on health status and behavior. Health care professionals and organizations serving minority elders must continue to expand their advocacy efforts to articulate the findings and their concerns to policymakers. Policymakers must understand and acknowledge the implications of an increasingly diverse society and determine what will constitute adequate, accessible, and acceptable health care within continuing fiscal constrains. Program planning, implementation, and evaluation methods must be revised to meet future health care needs effectively and efficiently.
The Development of a New Computer-Adaptive Test to Evaluate Strain in Caregivers of Individuals With TBI: TBI-CareQOL Caregiver Strain.

Abstract Objective To develop a new measure of caregiver strain for use in caregivers of individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI), Traumatic Brain Injury Caregiver Quality of Life (TBI-CareQOL) Caregiver Strain. Design Qualitative data, literature reviews, and cross-sectional survey study. Setting Three TBI Model Systems rehabilitation hospitals, an academic medical center, and a military medical treatment facility. Participants Caregivers (N=560) of civilians (n=344) or service members/veterans (SMVs) with TBI (n=216). Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measure TBI-CareQOL Caregiver Strain Item Bank. Results Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, a graded response model (GRM) and differential item functioning supported the retention of 33 items in the final measure. GRM calibration data was used to inform the selection of a 6-item static short form, and to program the TBI-CareQOL Caregiver Strain computer-adaptive test (CAT). CAT simulation analyses indicated a 0.97 correlation between the CAT scores and the full item-bank. Three-week test-retest reliability was strong (r=0.83). Conclusions The new TBI-CareQOL Caregiver Strain CAT and corresponding 6-item short form were developed using established rigorous measurement development standards; this is the first self-reported measure developed to evaluate caregiver strain in caregivers of individuals with TBI.