cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A high-throughput screening to identify small molecules that suppress huntingtin promoter activity or activate huntingtin-antisense promoter activity.

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by a CAG repeat expansion in exon 1 of huntingtin (HTT). While there are currently no disease-modifying treatments for HD, recent efforts have focused on the development of nucleotide-based therapeutics to lower HTT expression. As an alternative to siRNA or oligonucleotide methods, we hypothesized that suppression of HTT expression might be accomplished by small molecules that either (1) directly decrease HTT expression by suppressing HTT promoter activity or (2) indirectly decrease HTT expression by increasing the promoter activity of HTT-AS, the gene antisense to HTT that appears to inhibit expression of HTT. We developed and employed a high-throughput screen for modifiers of HTT and HTT-AS promoter activity using luminescent reporter HEK293 cells; of the 52,041 compounds tested, we identified 898 replicable hits. We used a rigorous stepwise approach to assess compound toxicity and the capacity of the compounds to specifically lower huntingtin protein in 5 different cell lines, including HEK293 cells, HD lymphoblastoid cells, mouse primary neurons, HD iPSCs differentiated into cortical-like neurons, and HD hESCs. We found no compounds which were able to lower huntingtin without lowering cell viability in all assays, though the potential efficacy of a few compounds at non-toxic doses could not be excluded. Our results suggest that more specific targets may facilitate a small molecule approach to HTT suppression.
Acquired Idiopathic Stiffness After Contemporary Total Knee Arthroplasty: Incidence, Risk Factors, and Results Over 25 Years.

Abstract Background Acquired idiopathic stiffness (AIS) remains a common failure mode of contemporary total knee arthroplasties (TKAs). The present study investigated the incidence of AIS and manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) at a single institution over time, determined outcomes of MUAs, and identified risk factors associated with AIS and MUA. Methods We identified 9771 patients (12,735 knees) who underwent primary TKAs with cemented, modular metal-backed, posterior-stabilized implants from 2000 to 2016 using our institutional total joint registry. Mean age was 68 years, 57% were female, and mean body mass index was 33 kg/m2. Demographic, surgical, and comorbidity data were investigated via univariate Cox proportional hazard models and fit to an adjusted multivariate model to access risk for AIS and MUA. Mean follow-up was 7 years. Results During the study period, 456 knees (3.6%) developed AIS and 336 knees (2.6%) underwent MUA. Range of motion (ROM) increased a mean of 34° after the MUA; however, ROM for patients treated with MUA was inferior to patients without AIS at final follow-up (102° vs 116°, P Conclusion Acquired idiopathic stiffness has continued to have an important adverse impact on the outcomes of a subset of patients undergoing primary TKAs. When utilized, MUA improved mean ROM by 34°, but patients treated with MUA still had decreased ROM compared to patients without AIS. Importantly, we identified several significant risk factors associated with AIS and subsequent MUA. Level of Evidence Level III, retrospective comparative study.
High performance grinding of titanium alloys with electroplated diamond wheels

Abstract This paper is concerned with an experimental study on grinding titanium alloys using electroplated diamond wheels with focus on wheel wear and its effects on forces, power, and surface roughness. Straight surface grinding experiments were conducted to measure forces, power, surface roughness, and wheel wear. Specific energy values ranging from about 19 to 43 J/mm3and G-ratios from about 296 and 944 were obtained. It was found that a higher material removal rate results in a lower G-ratio and electroplated diamond wheels wear less than electroplated CBN wheels on titanium alloys under other identical conditions.
On the Federal Excise Tax Exemption for US Gasoline Exports

Exports of refined gasoline are exempt from Federal excise taxation. Accordingly, an increase in the Federal excise tax on gasoline may simply increase the market price of gasoline in the U.S. and encourage the export of gasoline to foreign markets, primarily West Africa and Latin America. Any reduction in negative environmental externalities from an increase in the Federal gasoline excise tax in the United States is therefore likely to be mooted (or perhaps made worse) on a global basis. The Federal excise tax on gasoline appears to be the most regressive form of taxation when both direct and indirect costs are taken into account. This article is the first to estimate the indirect costs (i.e., imbedded transports costs) to U.S. persons of a Federal gasoline and diesel taxes using data from the Consumer Expenditure Survey of 2012. This article further updates and expands Poterba´s (1991) empirical calculation of the regressivity of the Federal gasoline tax based on direct gasoline expenditures. Finally, this article recommends that the Jones Act restrictions on gasoline shipment between the Gulf Coast refineries and East Coast terminals be removed.
Case presentation: Tuberculosis in a newborn infant

We present a case of a neonate born in the United States who developed hypoxemic respiratory failure, significant hepatomegaly, pancytopenia, and conjugated hyperbilirubinemia. It was suspected that she had hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). However, she had disseminated tuberculosis. It is imperative that tuberculosis is considered in the differential diagnosis of neonatal respiratory failure, abnormal blood cell counts, elevated bilirubin, and/or hepatomegaly of unknown etiology.
Regulation of epithelial cell cytokine responses by the α3β1 integrin

Epithelial cells (EC) from various tissues can produce important cytokines and chemokines when stimulated by proinflammatory cytokines. These EC also receive signals from cell surface integrins, like the α3β1 integrin, which is important in cell migration and wound healing of epithelial monolayers. However, little is known of the effect of integrin signals on cytokine responses by EC. Colonic Caco-2 cells treated with an anti-α3 integrin antibody prior to stimulation with the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-1 yielded suppressed levels of mRNA and secreted IL-6, IL-8 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 as compared to cells treated with normal mouse immunoglobulin G. Lung A549 cells also showed a similar suppression of cytokine secretion. Likewise, treatment of the Caco-2 cells with the same antibody suppressed tumour necrosis factor-α-stimulated IL-6 secretion. Fab fragments of the anti-α3 integrin antibody did not induce the suppressive effect but did block the suppressive effect of the whole antibody suggesting that the effect of the antibody required cross-linking of the integrins. Finally, culture of the Caco-2 cells on laminin type 5 (the major ligand for this integrin) yielded depressed levels of IL-1-induced IL-6 secretion as compared to cells on laminin type 1. These data are the first indication that the α3β1 integrin may cause a suppression of cytokine responses by EC which may be important in regulating the capacity of EC to respond during inflammation or wound healing.
A Review of Contested Case Provisions of the Tennessee Uniform Administrative Procedures Act

In 1982, the Tennessee state legislature amended the state’s Uniform Administrative Procedures Act. Several constructive changes were made including sectioning the Act into three parts: General Provisions, which are applicable to administrative agencies generally; Rulemaking and Publication; and Contested Cases. The 1982 amendments made significant changes in the provisions governing contested cases. The purpose of this article is to examine the rudimentary procedures of a contested case. The article concludes that the legislature has significantly clarified the manner in which contested cases are to be conducted and given agencies the authority that they need to be effective in their decision-making. Hopefully the statute now provides the optimum balance between agency discretion and the interests of persons who become parties in contest case proceedings.
Phenomenology of a Puppet Theater: Contemplations on the Art of Javanese Wayang Kulit

Reviewed Medium: book Authors: Jan Mrazek Year: 2006 Pages: ix + 567 Publisher: Koninklijk Instituut voor Taal-, Land- and Volkenkunde ISBN: 90-5718-252-4 (soft cover). Prices: $45.00 USD(soft cover).
Hilbert and set theory

Mesurant l'influence episodique d'Hilbert sur le developpement de la theorie des ensembles, l'A. examine l'utilisation des preuves non-constructives de l'existence, l'axiomatisation de la geometrie euclidienne, l'axiome de la completude et l'arithmetique des nombres reels chez Hilbert. Le programme hilbertien de la consistance des mathematiques est ensuite evalue a la lumiere de l'oeuvre de Godel (hypothese de la continuite) et a la lumiere des developpements recents dans le domaine des mathematiques inversees
Pythagorean Geometry and Fundamental Constants

The Cosmological Circle from ancient geometry, with its right triangles, and the ratios of the Pythagorean Table are found to be harmonically related to the fundamental physical constants. After a brief history of harmonic mathematics, harmonic values are calculated for the speed of light constant, gravitational constant, Planck's constant, and the inverse fine-structure constant. We then calculate the harmonic of electron mass and proton mass, showing the related Pythagorean/Cosmological Circle harmonics; and speculate on geometry and symmetry.
EUVE survey observations of the moon

Preliminary survey images of the moon obtained by the Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer and results of data analysis are presented. The preliminary results indicate that the brightness of the moon varies little from observation to observation. Early results also show that the lunar albedo closely matches the relative reflectivity of mineral found on the moon's surface. Further studies are conducted during the spectroscopy phase of the EUVE mission to confirm current results regarding the presence of X-ray fluorescence in the data.
Standardizing ASIC libraries in VHDL using VITAL: a tutorial

VITAL originated as an industry driven effort to standardize VHDL models for ASIC libraries. An IEEE version of VITAL is expected by the end of 1995. In this tutorial, after examining the goals behind the development of this standard, I shall discuss its central features using examples of VITAL-compliant models. Throughout, I shall concentrate on those aspects of VITAL which affect the development of ASIC models, and only touch on those which affect VHDL simulation development. Models using several VITAL-compliant styles are presented and discussed.
Reliability-Based Adaptive Control In Manufacturing Decision Systems

General system control can be considered as an adaptive process that alters the system by monitoring its actual behavior. In this process, confidence intervals serve to provide reliability statements regarding the system's performance under the condition of uncertainty, and lead to reliability - based constraints or standards required of the system. Whenever the system's actual performance violates the confidence interval-based requirements, a potential decision point is reached and corrective measures my be triggered. A prime example illustrating the above process is the control of production systems. In the classical literature, production systems including its configuration, operation mode, and demand (job type and resources requirements) - are generally considered as stationary over the system's planning horizons. In Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS), however, the basic conditions of systems are highly dynamic, thus, the adaptive control may require confidence intervals for complex stochastic processes which are beyond the classical results of probability. In this paper, we survey such situations and propose a framework to model the problem of reliability-based adaptive control in no decision systems. Current research on this method include: (a) combining reliability constraints with such control-theoretic models as stochastic Petri Nets and (b) incorporating the adaptive control capabilities into the design of a metadatabase for a computer-integrated manufacturing system, both are undertaken at RPI.
Effectiveness of Aerosol Formulations Containing Methoxychlor and Other Insecticide-Repellents against Biting Flies on Cattle, and Analyses of Milk from Treated Animals

Aerosol containers charged with 1, 2, and 4% of methoxyehlor in various combinations with N,N-diethyl- m -toluamide, Thanite® (isobornyl thiocyanoacetate-82%), MGK R-326 (di- m -propyl isocinchomeronate), pyrethrins, and other ingredients were released on lactating cows by means of an automatic photoelectric device. The major components of the device consisted of a rectangular-shaped wooden frame on which were mounted a photoelectric relay unit and a triggering mechanism. Three aerosol containers were strategically located on the frame. The aerosol spray was released instantly as cattle entered the frame and stopped as soon as they left. On the average, actual spraying time per animal was 1.5 seconds; 150 animals were treated by a set of three 12-ounce containers, a dosage of approximately 7 ml. being discharged on each animal. The spray was applied once daily. Milk from both treated and untreated cows Was collected and analyzed once or twice a week. Results of the tests made over a period of 14 weeks showed that the aerosol formulations gave consistently excellent control of the horn fly, Siphona irritans (L.), but. limited protection against the stable fly, Stomozys calcitrans (L.). None of the milk samples analyzed showed a detectable amount of methoxychlor. The current price for the parts of the automatic device was between 20 and 25, and the base cost of the containerws and aerosol ingredients averaged between 0.6 cent and 1 cent per animal per application.
Resolution of Auger and X-ray photoelectron spectra of mixtures by spectral ratioing

Abstract A method is described for resolving multicomponent Auger or X-ray photoelectron spectra into spectra of the pure components. The method begins by computing spectral ratios from two multicomponent spectra which contain the same unidentified components, but in different proportions. One requirement of the method is that a spectral region must exist for each component where only that component contributes to the signal. A second requirement is that the inelastic energy loss background must be suppressed. An appropriate background suppression method is presented for ESCA (Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis) survey spectra. Spectral ratioing is applied to Auger and ESCA spectra to identify surface segregates on heat-treated alloy steels.
Modeling of fiber toughening in cementitious materials using an R-curve approach

This paper presents the theoretical formulation describing the role of fibers in enhancing the fracture toughness of quasi-brittle cement based materials. The formulation is based on the well known R-curve approach which correlates the increase of the apparent fracture toughness of a material with the existence of a pre-critical stable crack growth region.
Resistance of commercial rice varieties to Sitotroga cerealella (Olivier) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)

Abstract Commercially grown varieties of rice from the United States, France and the Phillipines showed significantly different levels of infestibility by Sitotroga cerealella. The yield obtained by seeding with 200 eggs or with 5 adults is essentially the same. There was an upward trend in yield over six generations on many of the varieties but the change was not often statistically significant. Infestation by eggs appears to be the more dependable method for screening for resistance in rice to this insect.
Abnormal endogenous pain modulation is a shared characteristic of many chronic pain conditions.

The intensity of acute and chronic pain depends on interactions between peripheral impulse input and CNS pain mechanisms, including facilitation and inhibition. Whereas tonic pain inhibition is a characteristic of most pain-free individuals, pain facilitation can be detected in many chronic pain patients. The capability to inhibit pain is normally distributed along a wide continuum in the general population and can be used to predict chronic pain. Accumulating evidence suggests that endogenous pain inhibition depends on activation of the prefrontal cortex, periaqueductal gray and rostral ventral medulla. Quantitative sensory test paradigms have been designed to acquire detailed information regarding each individual’s endogenous pain inhibition and facilitation. Such tests include: temporal summation of pain, which is mostly used to assess facilitatory pain modulation by measuring the change in pain perception during a series of identical nociceptive stimuli; and conditioned pain modulation, which tests pain inhibition by utilizing two simultaneously applied painful stimuli (the ‘pain inhibits pain’ paradigm). Considerable indirect evidence seems to indicate that not only increased pain facilitation but also ineffective pain inhibition represents a predisposition for chronic pain. This view is supported by the fact that many chronic pain syndromes (e.g., fibromyalgia, temporomandibular joint disorder, irritable bowel syndrome, headache and chronic fatigue syndrome) are associated with hypersensitivity to painful stimuli and reduced endogenous pain inhibition. However, future prospective studies will be necessary to provide definitive evidence for this relationship. Such research would not only provide important information about mechanisms relevant to chronic pain but would also permit identification of individuals at high risk for future chronic pain.
Involvement of the sensor kinase EnvZ in the in vivo activation of the response‐regulator PhoB by acetyl phosphate

Three signalling pathways lead to activation of the phosphate (Pho) regulon by phosphorylation of the response-regulator PhoB in Escherichia coli. One pathway responds to the extracellular inorganic phosphate (PI) level and leads to activation by the Pi sensor kinase, PhoR. The other two pathways are Pi independent and are apparent in the absence of PhoR. One Pi-independent pathway responds to the level of an unknown catabolite and leads to activation by the catabolite regulatory sensor kinase, CreC (originally called PhoM); the other Pi-independent pathway responds to acetyl phosphate and leads to activation by a process requiring acetyl phosphate. Here we show that activation of PhoB by acetyl phosphate can require the sensor kinase EnvZ. Accordingly, we propose that the in vivo activation of PhoB by acetyl phosphate (and perhaps other two-component response-regulators as well) probably always requires a certain kinase that can vary depending upon the growth conditions.
Cerebral dysraphia (future anencephaly) in a human twin embryo at stage 13

Cerebral dysraphia was studied histologically and by graphic reconstruction in a twin at stage 13, and comparisons were made with the normal (discordant) twin. The normal, bidirectional closure of the rostral neuropore was investigated in several embryos, from which it was concluded that the situs neuroporicus is represented by the future commissural plate rather than by the (adult) lamina terminalis. In the abnormal twin the neural tube was open over part of the midbrain and forebrain, although the situs neuroporicus was closed. The experimental production of anencephaly by Giroud and co-workers was reviewed, and comparisons between embryonic staging systems in the rat, mouse, and human were made. Three corresponding phases are found in the human: 1) cerebral dysraphia, occurring before or during Carnegie stage 11 (approximately 23-25 days); 2) exposure of a highly developing and well-differentiated brain during the remainder of the embryonic period; and 3) degeneration of the exposed brain throughout the fetal period, resulting in anencephaly. Hence the abnormal twin described here is believed to represent a precursor of typical anencephaly, and is the earliest example of purely cerebral dysraphia so far recorded.
A System for Recording Measurements of Fish Scales

Abstract A system for recording measurements of fish scales is described. Symbols to denote various features of life history and, in the case of doubtful features, to express the “degree of doubt” in a definite manner, are listed. Two alternative procedures for gauging the validity of scale interpretations are suggested.
Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of budesonide: A new nebulized corticosteroid

Underutilization of anti-inflammatory agents in the treatment of asthma has received widespread attention. Inhaled glucocorticosteroids are important agents for the management of asthma in children and adults. Budesonide has a high ratio of topical anti-inflammatory to systemic activity and is one of the most extensively used inhaled glucocorticoids. Budesonide inhalation suspension is the first formulation designed to deliver budesonide by way of nebulization for infants and children under 8 years of age with persistent asthma. Budesonide decreases airway hyperresponsiveness and reduces the number of inflammatory cells and mediators present in the airways of patients with asthma. Budesonide appears to be retained within cells, allowing for a once-daily treatment regimen in certain patient groups. After inhalation of nebulized budesonide, absorption is rapid. Data suggest that plasma concentrations of budesonide are similar in adults and children after inhalation of the same nominal dose from a nebulizer. In children 3 to 6 years of age, total systemic availability of budesonide after dosing with a jet nebulizer was approximately 6% of the labeled dose. Budesonide is highly protein bound, undergoes extensive first-pass hepatic metabolism, is metabolized by the liver cytochrome P450 system, and is primarily excreted in the urine as metabolites. In children 3 to 6 years of age, the volume of distribution at steady state of budesonide inhalation suspension is approximately 3 L/kg, with a terminal elimination half-life of 2.3 hours; systemic clearance is approximately 30 mL/kg. The pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of budesonide inhalation suspension allow for potent local anti-inflammatory activity with limited systemic exposure.
Detailed Simulations of Cell Biology with Smoldyn 2.1

Most cellular processes depend on intracellular locations and random collisions of individual protein molecules. To model these processes, we developed algorithms to simulate the diffusion, membrane interactions, and reactions of individual molecules, and implemented these in the Smoldyn program. Compared to the popular MCell and ChemCell simulators, we found that Smoldyn was in many cases more accurate, more computationally efficient, and easier to use. Using Smoldyn, we modeled pheromone response system signaling among yeast cells of opposite mating type. This model showed that secreted Bar1 protease might help a cell identify the fittest mating partner by sharpening the pheromone concentration gradient. This model involved about 200,000 protein molecules, about 7000 cubic microns of volume, and about 75 minutes of simulated time; it took about 10 hours to run. Over the next several years, as faster computers become available, Smoldyn will allow researchers to model and explore systems the size of entire bacterial and smaller eukaryotic cells.
Automorphism free latin square graphs

In this paper, we show that there exists an automorphism free latin square graph of order n for all n >= 7 and that the number of such graphs goes to infinity with n. These results are then applied to the construction of automorphism free Steiner triple systems.
A thermodynamic description of the TiAl system

Abstract A thermodynamic description of the TiAl system was developed in this study. Nine phases were considered and can be classified as three types — disordered solution phases: liquid, (αTi, hcp), (βTi, bcc), (Al, fcc); ordered intermetallic phases: α 2 -Ti 3 Al (DO 19 ), γ-TiAl (L1 0 ), TiAl 3 (DO 22 ); and stoichiometric phases: TiAl 2 and Ti 2 Al 5 . While the Redlich-Kister equation was used to describe the excess Gibbs energy of the disordered solution phases, a generalized bond-energy model recently developed by us at the University of Wisconsin at Madison was used to describe the Gibbs energy of the ordered intermetallic phases. The model parameters were optimized using the experimental phase equilibrium and thermodynamic data available in the literature. The calculated phase diagram as well as the thermodynamic functions are in good agreement with experimental data. The intrinsic defect concentrations calculated from the model parameters for γ-TiAl were found to be in accord with those obtained from a semiempirical relationship in terms of its enthalpy of formation and the available experimental data. The generalized bond-energy model parameters for the ordered intermetallic phases were converted to those of the compound energy model for the convenience of the users of Thermo-Calc.
A COMPACT HIGH-ORDER UNSTRUCTURED GRIDS METHOD FOR THE SOLUTION OF EULER EQUATIONS

SUMMARY Two compact higher-order methods are presented for solving the Euler equations in two dimensions. The flow domain is discretized by triangles. The methods use a characteristic-based approach with a cell-centered finite volume method. Polynomials of order 0 through 3 are used in each cell to represent the conservation flow variables. Solutions are demonstrated to achieve up to fourth-order accuracy. Computations are presented for a variety of fluid flow applications. Numerical results demonstrate a substantial gain in efficiency using compact higher-order elements over the lower-order elements. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Disequilibrium of the238U series in basalt

Radioisotope analyses of basalt samples from Hawaii, Japan, and Iwo Jima show that: (1)234U and238U are virtually in radioactive equilibrium, (2)230Th exceeds equilibrium values in all these samples, (3)210Pb concentrations range from 10–200% of the equilibrium values and average 30% deficient, and (4)226Ra is probably not in equilibrium with234U. The source regions of the basalts or magma forming processes are open systems, chemically. The enrichment of some of the uranium-daughter nuclides is insufficient to account for the excess206Pb in volcanic rocks. The isotopic composition of lead and specific activity of210Pb in sublimates from Showa-shinzan, Japan are also reported.
Histological effects of trigeminal nerve radiosurgery in a primate model: implications for trigeminal neuralgia radiosurgery.

Objective Stereotactic radiosurgical treatment of the proximal trigeminal nerve is used to relieve the pain of trigeminal neuralgia. The mechanism of the radiosurgical effect is not understood. Methods Two adult baboons underwent stereotactic magnetic resonance imaging-guided radiosurgery, using a gamma knife. A single 4-mm isocenter was targeted to each proximal trigeminal nerve, just anterior to the pons, to deliver a maximal dose of 80 or 100 Gy (total of four nerves). A nonirradiated baboon brain and nerves served as control specimens. Six months after treatment, magnetic resonance imaging was again performed and the brains and nerves were studied using light and electron microscopy. Results Magnetic resonance imaging indicated a 4-mm-diameter area of contrast enhancement at the target site in each nerve. All irradiated nerves exhibited axonal degeneration and mild edema at the target, with remnants of some myelinated axons. Large and small myelinated and unmyelinated fibers were affected. No inflammation was observed. Nerve necrosis was identified after 100-Gy treatment. The trigeminal ganglion appeared normal. Conclusion Radiosurgery at 80 Gy causes focal axonal degeneration of the trigeminal nerve. At higher doses, partial nerve necrosis is observed. We think that these effects influence the physiological features of trigeminal neuralgia.
Device to limit inflation of a pulmonary artery catheter balloon.

OBJECTIVE The most serious complication seen with pulmonary artery catheters is rupture of the pulmonary artery. The effectiveness of an external safety balloon added to the pulmonary artery balloon inflation port was tested. DESIGN The external balloon is designed to inflate and absorb excess volume from the inflation syringe after the internal balloon contacts the vessel wall. When the catheter tip is in a small pulmonary artery, expansion of the external balloon indicates that the catheter tip is in a noncompliant or small vessel. SETTING The external balloon was tested in a bench simulation. INTERVENTIONS None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS The pulmonary artery balloon was slowly inflated inside 2.6-, 3.0-, 4.7-, 8.6-, and 11.6-mm internal diameter polyvinyl chloride tubes, with and without the external safety device in place. Without the external balloon, the average balloon pressure was 1647 +/- 145 (SD) mm Hg in the 2.6-mm vessel. With the external balloon in use, the maximum pulmonary artery balloon pressure was 473 +/- 7.2 mm Hg in the 2.6-mm vessel. CONCLUSIONS The external balloon can limit balloon pressures within the pulmonary artery and identify when excessive volumes are being forced into the pulmonary artery balloon.
Delayed gastric emptying after gastric surgery

Background The reported incidence of delayed gastric emptying (DGE) after gastric surgery is 5% to 25% and usually is based on operations for peptic ulcer disease. Ongoing improvements in perioperative care, nutritional support, and new prokinetic drugs may have had a beneficial effect on the frequency and course of postoperative DGE. Methods We therefore studied our recent experience with DGE in 416 patients who had gastric surgery for ulcer disease (283), cancer (92), or trauma and other indications (41) between January 1985 and December 1993. DGE was defined as inability to eat a regular diet by postoperative day 10. Results DGE occurred in 99 of 416 patients (24%). In 75 of these 99 patients, a postoperative contributing factor for DGE was identified. These factors were sepsis (32), anastomotic edema and leaks (23), obstruction (4), pancreatitis (3), multiple system organ failure (5), and miscellaneous conditions (8). In 24 patients there was no obvious cause for DGE; these patients recovered with nutritional support and time. Re-operation specifically for gastric stasis was not performed. Among the 99 patients with DGE, 67% were eating by day 21, 92% by 6 weeks, and 100% by 10 weeks. Significant risk factors for DGE were diabetes (55%), malnutrition (44%), and operations for malignancy (38%). The Whipple procedure had the highest incidence of DGE (70%), highly selective vagotomy the lowest (0%), while truncal vagotomy had no significant effect. The response to metoclopramide was 20% and unpredictable. Conclusion DGE continues to affect a considerable number of our patients (24%) after gastric surgery and is particularly common in patients with diabetes, malnutrition, and gastric or pancreatic cancer. However, gastric motility does return in 3 to 6 weeks in most patients and the need for re-operation for gastric stasis is rare.
Finite-dimensional Hopf algebras of rank one in characteristic zero

Let H be a finite-dimensional pointed Hopf algebra over an algebraically closed field k generated as an algebra by the first term H1 of its coradical filtration. Generally for a Hopf algebra whose coradical H0 is a sub-Hopf algebra we assign a measure of complexity to H which we refer to as the rank of H. We obtain a presentation of pointed Hopf algebras H of rank one by generators and relations. In the special case when G(H) is an abelian group and k has characteristic 0 we classify the finite-dimensional indecomposable H-modules, determine all simple left modules of the Drinfel'd double D(H) of H, their projective covers, and the blocks of D(H).
Modification of MBE for growth of dilute nitride quantum well photovoltaics

III-V Dilute Nitride multi-quantum well structures are currently promising candidates to achieve 1 sun efficiencies of >40% with multi-junction design (InGaP/ GaAs/ GaAsN/ Ge). In other works, we have discussed the design having III-V Dilute Nitride GaAsN multi-quantum well (MQW) structures with resonant tunneling setup in the intrinsic region, in order to improve the response potentially yielding 1 sun efficiencies greater than 40%. Earlier efforts in this direction had yielded samples with considerable incorporation of N at the QW/barrier interface, leading to the formation of nitridation and reducing the overall quantum efficiency. In this work we discuss the results of the growth of MQW solar cells in MBE, with a modified run-vent system for the RF N-plasma setup aimed at increasing the sharpness of the well-barrier transition, and the change in quality of the quantum wells grown.
Molecular Simulation for Adsorption and Separation of CH4/H2 in Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks

In this work, the grand canonical Monte Carlo method was employed to study the adsorption and separation characteristics of CH4/H2 on MOF-5 and five zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs), including two sodalite (SOD), ZIF-8 and -67, two merlinoite (MER), ZIF-10 and -60, and one DFT, ZIF-3. Simulations show that more CH4 molecules are adsorbed in all frameworks than H2, which is consistent with a higher pure gas isosteric heat of adsorption of CH4 as compared with that of H2. For both gases, adsorbed amounts primarily rely on the physical and chemical parameters of the adsorbent. Results of density distribution profiles and equilibrium snapshots of the ZIFs indicate that the most preferential gas adsorption sites for both CH4 and H2 are the positions near linkers. At high pressures, CH4 begins to fill up in the center of the SOD cage. We also found that the selectivity for CH4 increased with the difference between the isosteric heats of adsorption of CH4 and H2, Δqst, but decreased to some extent due to t...
Biofilms and Microbial Fouling

Publisher Summary This chapter presents a framework for understanding the process of biofilm development on a surface and the consequences of the accumulation on the environment. It begins by describing biofilm development in terms of selected fundamental rate processes and environmental parameters influencing their rate and extent. The physical, chemical, and biochemical properties of the biofilm that determine the influence of the biofilm on its microenvironment are discussed in the chapter. The properties of the biofilm and its microenvironment lead to a discussion of the microbial ecology within the biofilm and the physiology of the organisms immobilized within it. The effects of the biofilm on its environment, both beneficial and detrimental, are presented. There are many other questions and concerns stated in this chapter regarding biofilm processes.
Asymmetric synthesis via chiral acetal templates. 7. Further studies on the cyanation reaction. The use of acetals derived from diols with one chiral center

New examples of the cyanation reaction are described, including one that affords the cyanochydrin 8, an intermediate for synthesizing pyrethroid insecticides. Also tile reaction with acetals derived from S-1,3-butanediol has been examined.
Formation of shells in major mergers

Numerical simulations are used to study the fate of disks in mergers between equal-mass galaxies. Contrary to popular belief, mergers between equal-mass galaxies can form shells, loops, and ripples. Material that was originally in the outer disk of the premerger spirals falls into the remnant late in the merger event, long after the inner region of the remnant has relaxed. Thus, its evolution is similar to that of an accreted dwarf satellite that forms shells through 'phase wrapping'. However, the mechanism described in this letter avoids a number of difficulties with the accretion model; specifically, it can explain the observed correlation between properties of the host galaxies and shell alignments and luminosities. In view of this, we argue that many shell systems may have originated through 'major' mergers of comparable-mass galaxies rather than via 'minor' mergers or accretions. In particular, the shell elliptical NGC 3923 appears to be a good candidate for shell formation by a major merger.
Evaluation of Genetic Diversity and Genome‐wide Linkage Disequilibrium among U.S. Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Germplasm Representing Different Market Classes

Genetic diversity and genome-wide linkage disequilibrium (LD) were investigated among 43 U.S. wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) elite cultivars and breeding lines representing seven U.S. wheat market classes using 242 wheat genomic simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers distributed throughout the wheat genome. Genetic diversity among these lines was examined using genetic distance-based and model-based clustering methods, and analysis of molecular variance. Four populations were identified from the model-based analysis, which partitioned each of the spring and winter populations into two subpopulations, corresponding largely to major geographic regions of wheat production in the United States. This suggests that the genetic diversity existing among these U.S. wheat germplasm was influenced more by regional adaptation than by market class, and that the individuals clustered in the same model-based population likely shared related ancestral lines in their breeding history. For this germplasm collection, genome-wide LD estimates were generally less than 1 cM for the genetically linked loci pairs. This may result from the population stratification and small sample size that reduced statistical power. Most of the LD regions observed were between loci less than 10 cM apart. However, the distribution of LD was not uniform based on linkage distance and was independent of marker density. Consequently, LD is likely to vary widely among wheat populations. © Crop Science Society of America.
2,7-Bis(diarylamino)-9,9-dimethylfluorenes as Hole-Transport Materials for Organic Light-Emitting Diodes†

2,7-Bis(p-methoxyphenyl-m′-tolylamino)-9,9-dimethylfluorene (1′), 2,7-bis(phenyl-m′-tolylamino)-9,9-dimethylfluorene (2′) and 2,7-bis(p-fluorophenyl-m′-tolylamino)-9,9-dimethylfluorene (3′) have been synthesized using the palladium-catalyzed reaction of the appropriate diarylamines with 2,7-dibromo-9,9-dimethylfluorene. These molecules have glass-transition temperatures 15–20 °C higher than those for their biphenyl-bridged analogues, and are 0.11–0.14 V more readily oxidized. Fluorescence spectra and fluorescence quantum yields for dimethylfluorene-bridged and biphenyl-bridged species are similar, but the peaks of the absorption spectra of 1′–3′ are considerably red-shifted relative to those of their biphenyl-bridged analogues. Time-of-flight hole mobilities of 1′–3′/polystyrene blends are in a similar range to those of the biphenyl-bridged analogues. Analysis according to the disorder formalism yields parameters rather similar to those for the biphenyl species, but with somewhat lower zero-field mobility values. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that the enforced planarization of the fluorene bridge leads to a slightly larger reorganization energy for the neutral/cation electron-exchange reaction than in the biphenyl-bridged system. Organic light-emitting diodes have been fabricated using 1′–3′/polystyrene blends as the hole-transport layer and tris(8-hydroxy quinoline)aluminium as the electron-transport layer and lumophore. Device performance shows a correlation with the ionization potential of the amine materials paralleling that seen in biphenyl-based systems, and fluorene species show similar performance to biphenyl species with comparable ionization potential.
Patients Speak: What's Really Important About Bedside Interactions With Physician Teams

Background: Although it may take up relatively little time, hospitalized patients' interactions with their physicians are important elements of their hospital experience. Purpose: We conducted a qualitative study to explore what is important to patients about bedside interactions with their physician teams. Methods: We interviewed medical inpatients and used grounded theory methodology to analyze interview transcripts. Results: We recruited 17 patients from an academic medical center including a university hospital and a Veterans Administration (VA) hospital. We found that important aspects of patient–team interactions included the exchange of information, evidence of caring from their team, involvement in teaching, knowing the team members, and bedside manner. Patients also described team characteristics that were important to them such as team attributes and intrateam collaboration. Conclusions: This model clarifies the aspects of bedside interactions that patients value and will allow physicians to foc...
Thermodynamics and kinetics of intramolecular water assisted proton transfer in Na+ -1-methylcytosine water complexes.

High-level ab initio predictions of the tautomerization equilibrium and rate constants of water-assisted proton transfer of 1-methyl-cytosine (MeC) to its MeC* imino tautomeric form in the presence...
Non-cyclic photoreductive carbon fixation in photosynthesis. Light and dark transients of the glycerate-3-P special pair.

Abstract It is demonstrated that carbon fixation in photosynthesis is regulated in two kinetically coupled pathways involving the specialized pair of non-equivalent, enzyme-bound glycerate-3-P (3-PGA) molecules obtained from ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate (RuBP) carboxylation in the light.A non-cyclic pathway is suggested (reaction 2) for the direct biosynthesis of sucrose from the 3-PGA obtained from C-3, C-4 and C-5 of the six-carbon carboxylation adduct. Concomitant to the appearance of sucrose as the principal product, the Mg 2+ -bound 3-PGA molecule formed from C-1, C-2 and C-2′ of the C 6 intermediate is released and subsequently reduced in regenerating the RuBP. It is proposed that the nocturnal inhibitor, 2-carboxyarabinitol-1-phosphate (1-PCA) is obtained from a condensation of 3-PGA and glyceraldehyde.
The treatment planning of segmental, conformal stereotactic radiosurgery utilizing a standard multileaf collimator

Abstract Over a period of approximately 3 years, our institution has implemented and refined a system of Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) which utilizes the standard multi leaf collimator (MLC) of the Scanditronix MM50 Racetrack Microtron and treats in an arrangement of segmental “pseudo-arcs.” This system employs a commercial BRW-based stereotactic frame which is mounted to the treatment table. With the exception of the table-mounted frame hardware there have been no modifications to the treatment machine to accommodate these treatments. By use of standard evaluation parameters (e.g., treatment time, planning time, dose conformance and dose heterogeneity ratios) this system compares quite favorably with reported data from institutions treating SRS with either a GammaKnife or a standard linear accelerator with tertiary collimators.
Cell Walls, Cell Shape, and Bacterial Actin Homologs

The synthesis of the peptidoglycan layer, one of the key determinants of cell shape in B. subtilis, has been shown by Daniel and Errington to occur in a helical pattern. This pattern is generated by the actin homolog Mbl.
Cytomegalovirus immune globulin intravenous (human) administration modulates immune response to alloantigens in sensitized renal transplant candidates

One of the important parameters for prolonged waiting time for potential renal transplant recipients is the presence of preformed antibodies to human leucocyte antigen (HLA) antigens, which is often caused by previous transplants, pregnancy or transfusions. In vivo administration of specific and unselected polyclonal intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIGs) preparations have been shown to inhibit anti-HLA alloantibodies in highly sensitized patients. We sought to determine whether Cytogam (Medimmune Inc., Gaithersburg, MD, USA), a hyperimmune anticytomegalovirus immunoglobulin would (1) effect either in vitro or in vivo alloreactivity, and (2) whether Cytogam therapy could reduce the titre of preformed anti-HLA antibodies in highly sensitized patients. Alloreactivity was assessed by mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) and cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) assay. A complement dependent microlymphocytotoxicity assay was done to assess for panel reactive antibody (PRA) status and the presence of anti-idiotypic antibodies in the Cytogam preparation. The MLR was inhibited by Cytogam in vitro in a dose-dependent fashion ranging from 31–92%. Significant inhibition of the MLR responses was not observed in recipients who received Cytogam in vivo (50 mg/kg). This could be a result of adminstration of a low dose of IVIG. However, CTL activity against the alloantigens in all individuals assessed was significantly inhibited after in vivo administration of Cytogam. Three of five individuals experienced a decrease of 5–32% in the PRA status at 4 weeks post administration of Cytogam. Cytogam also blocked the anti-HLA antibody titres in a microlymphocytotoxicity assay, suggesting the presence of anti-idiotypic antibodies. Our study was based on a single prophylactic dose of Cytogam (50 mg/kg), however, higher dose administration could be feasible by removing more fluid at dialysis, but should be given intradialytically to avoid volume overload. Overall, our results suggest that Cytogam can modulate the in vivo and in vitro T cell responses against the alloantigens.
Architecture for health - 2050: an international perspective

The planning and design of environments for healthcare is complex and at times contradictory. Research and critical discourse have been fragmented and have not provided the degree of support required by the architectural profession. This dilemma is compounded by the enormous capital investment countries around the globe expend annually to promote the health status of their citizens. To help rectify this situation, landmark international developments in the relationship between architecture and health are outlined within a dualistic conceptual framework that is part historical and part futurist. Prognostications for the year 2050 are offered on issues concerning the rise of alternative care settings to the traditional acute care hospital. This portion of the discussion examines the rising importance of home- and community-based care, the functions of nature as a therapeutic modality, patient empowerment, the critical need for socially equitable and sustainable environments for healthcare, and the need for ...
5-Lipoxygenase Activating Protein Reduction Ameliorates Cognitive Deficit, Synaptic Dysfunction, and Neuropathology in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease

Background 5-lipoxygenase activating protein (FLAP) is abundantly present in the central nervous system. Although its function has been extensively interrogated in the context of peripheral inflammation, novel roles for this protein are emerging in the central nervous system. The objective of our study was to investigate the functional role that FLAP plays in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (AD) with plaques and tangles (i.e., 3xTg mice). Methods By implementing a genetic knockout of FLAP and pharmacologic inhibition with a FLAP inhibitor (MK-591), we evaluated the effect on the AD-like neuropathology, cognition, and synaptic plasticity in the 3xTg mice. Results We show that reduction of FLAP leads to amelioration of cognition and memory along with the rescuing of synaptic dysfunction at an early age before the development of overt neuropathology. Genetic knockout and pharmacologic inhibition of FLAP also yielded an improvement in AD pathology through a reduction in Aβ via the γ-secretase pathway and a decrease in tau phosphorylation through the cdk5 pathway. Conclusions Our studies identify a novel functional role for FLAP in regulating memory and synaptic plasticity. They establish this protein at the crossroad of multiple pathways that ultimately contribute to the development of the entire AD-like phenotype, making it a viable therapeutic target with disease-modifying capacity for the treatment of this disease.