cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Clinical subsets, skin thickness progression rate, and serum antibody levels in systemic sclerosis patients with anti-topoisomerase I antibody.

Objective To describe the clinical and laboratory features and natural history of the disease in systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma) patients with anti–topoisomerase I (anti–topo I) antibody who have different skin thickness progression rates (STPRs). Methods SSc patients (n = 212) who were anti–topo I antibody positive were divided into 5 subgroups based on STPRs. Skin thickness was measured using the modified Rodnan skin thickness score (MRSS). Anti–topo I IgG antibody levels were determined. Results Sixty patients who were anti–topo I antibody positive had diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc) with rapid progression, 82 had dcSSC with intermediate progression, and 29 had dcSSc with slow progression, 14 had limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc) that became dcSSc, and 27 had lcSSc that did not change throughout. Patients beginning with lcSSc were younger at disease onset and had longer disease duration when diagnosed as having SSc. Interstitial lung disease was common and was equally distributed across the subgroups. Renal crisis occurred most often in patients with rapid progression (22%) and was absent in lcSSc patients. Cardiac involvement was most frequent in the dcSSc subgroups. Both kidney and heart disease occurred most often within 3 years after the onset of skin thickening. The 10-year cumulative survival rate was <40% for patients with rapid and intermediate progression. Renal and cardiac causes of death were disproportionately frequent in these 2 subgroups. Anti–topo I antibody levels correlated with the STPR and the MRSS. Conclusion Anti–topo I antibody–positive patients with SSc with a rapid STPR have reduced survival rates, primarily due to early and often fatal renal and cardiac involvement. Anti–topo I antibody levels parallel the MRSS at the first visit and the STPR. This information is important for managing physicians and researchers planning clinical trials involving patients with early dcSSc.
Confinement-induced quorum sensing of individual Staphylococcus aureus bacteria

It is postulated that in addition to cell density, other factors such as the dimensions and diffusional characteristics of the environment could influence quorum sensing (QS) and induction of genetic reprogramming. Modeling studies predict that QS may operate at the level of a single cell, but, owing to experimental challenges, the potential benefits of QS by individual cells remain virtually unexplored. Here we report a physical system that mimics isolation of a bacterium, such as within an endosome or phagosome during infection, and maintains cell viability under conditions of complete chemical and physical isolation. For Staphylococcus aureus, we show that quorum sensing and genetic reprogramming can occur in a single isolated organism. Quorum sensing allows S. aureus to sense confinement and to activate virulence and metabolic pathways needed for survival. To demonstrate the benefit of confinement-induced quorum sensing to individuals, we showed that quorum-sensing bacteria have significantly greater viability over non-QS bacteria.
1215 PROPRANOLOL INHIBITS BRAIN AND SOMATIC GROWTH IN THE RAT

Maternal use of the beta blocker propranolol (PRO) has been associated with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) in the offspring. Because mothers received the drug for hypertension or cardiac disease, it is uncertain whether the drug or the disease produced the IUGR. To determine whether PRO itself could inhibit growth, it was given to rats at various ages. Administration by gavage at a dose of 50 mg/kg to pregnant rats on days 17-21 resulted in significantly lower birth weight (5.76±0.28g vs. 6.41±0.63, p<0.05) even though mean litter size was also slightly reduced. In contrast, administration to pair-fed post-weanling rats had no effect on growth. Suckling rats given PRO 50 mg/kg by gavage starting on day 4 had a 22% deficit in body weight (p<0.01) and a 10% deficit in brain weight (p<0.01),in comparison to controls by day 16. A dose of 25 mg/kg did not affect growth while 75 mg/kg produced a 33% weight deficit on day 16.
Sentinel health events as indicators of unmet needs

Abstract It is vitally important to be able to assess the impact of the health care system population it serves. This paper explores whether sentinel health events—negative health states, such as death, disability, and disease, that might have been avoided given current medical and public health knowledge and technology—can be used as sociomedical indicators to assess levels of unmet needs and to evaluate health system performance. Using hospital discharge data, the occurence of sentinel health events in New York State and differences among population subgroups are examined. Among hospitalized residents of New York State in 1983, more than 17,000 deaths occured that were possibly avoidable. More than 336,000 instances of disease were found that were potentially preventable. Significantly higher rates and ratios for many sentinel events were dound among blacks, Medicaid recipients, and users of public hospitals that were found for comparison groups. The sentinel events approach proved to be useful and practical. However, refinements and adaptations of the sentinel events method are needed, including the development of one or more smaller sets of indicators—tracer sentinel events—that can be used to profile aspects of health status and the health system.
Light dosimetry model for photodynamic therapy treatment planning

A light dosimetry model for photodynamic therapy is described leading to the dependence of necrosis depth on incident light dose. Semiempirical dosimetry relations are derived for four modes of light delivery. Results for Photofrin® II at 630 nm are summarized in graphical form. Numerical values of the parameters and necrosis depth calculations are compared with literature data.
The Committee on Human Relations in Industry

The most distinctive characteristic of our modern civilization is its immeasurably powerful technological system. Every part of our daily life is influenced by it. Technological changes in our culture have caused continual social and ideational adjustments and necessitate constant thoughtful consideration of everything we do. The pace of social change is so rapid and compelling that all business administrators are forced to make frequent decisions to abandon old ways and adopt new procedures. Administrative decisions which involve changes in the skill relations or the acceptance of new tools and machines are difficult, but they seem easy when compared with those which necessitate changes in the social relations of the human beings who make up the organization of production.
Probabilistic elasto-plasticity: solution and verification in 1D

In this paper, a solution is presented for evolution of probability density function (PDF) of elastic–plastic stress–strain relationship for material models with uncertain parameters. Developments in this paper are based on already derived general formulation presented in the companion paper. The solution presented is then specialized to a specific Drucker–Prager elastic–plastic material model. Three numerical problems are used to illustrate the developed solution. The stress–strain response (1D) is given as a PDF of stress as a function of strain. The presentation of the stress–strain response through the PDF differs significantly from the traditional presentation of such results, which are represented by a single, unique curve in stress–strain space. In addition to that the numerical solutions are verified against closed form solutions where available (elastic). In cases where the closed form solution does not exist (elastic–plastic), Monte Carlo simulations are used for verification.
Gender preference toward providers of genital examinations and frequency of genital self-examination among college students.

Abstract Both male and female students who utilize Brandeis University Health Services for primary care were assessed regarding their preference as to the gender of providers of genital examinations, together with the frequency with which each sex and academic class performs genital self-examinations, during a two-month period of the 1981 Spring Semester, using a brief self-administered questionnaire. Among 234 undergraduate and graduate student men and women who returned questionnaires, women and men preferred to be examinated by same-sex examiners; less than half of the women and nearly none of the men would want a chaperone present during the examination, even when the examiner is not the same gender. An increasing percentage of these young women perform breast examinations as they get older, but there is no comparable rise in testicular self-examinations with increasing age among the men. It is important for physicians who care for adolescents and young adults in university health services to provide ...
Theory of H− in SiO2

Abstract We present an ab initio molecular orbital study of H in SiO 2 with special emphasis on H − . We have calculated equilibrium geometries, vibrational spectra, binding energies and electrical levels. For the electrical levels, we have included long-range polarization effects in three approximations. We compare our results to those of Yokozawa and Miyamoto and others. We find that H 0 is unstable in SiO 2 . However, we find that, rather than disproportionate, it prefers to dimerize. We also predict that H 0 is a deep electron trap. Finally, we find that long-range polarization effects are crucially important for obtaining even qualitatively correct values for electrical levels.
Annealing effects in amorphous CoP alloys

Abstract The in-plane magnetic saturation field and the intensity of small-angle X-ray scattering have been measured for amorphous, ferromagnetic CoP alloy films (22.5 at.% P), 31 μm thick, produced by electrodeposition. The observed intensity of small-angle X-ray scattering depends on the angle φ between the diffraction vector K and the plane of the film. These observations have been interpreted in terms of oriented, ellipsoidal scattering regions. They may correspond to regions of high cobalt concentration and therefore of high magnetization. After annealing at a temperature (200 °C for 6 h) which is lower than the crystallization temperature (340 °C), the in-plane magnetic saturation field decreases from 70 to 40 Oe and the intensity of small-angle X-ray scattering decreases by 40%. These observations suggest that internal demagnetizing effects associated with anisotropic microstructure contribute to perpendicular easy-axis magnetic anisotropy in these amorphous ferromagnetic films.
Creep Response of the Hayward Fault to Stress Changes Caused by the Loma Prieta Earthquake

In 1996, an 18-millimeter creep event, the largest ever observed on the Hayward fault, occurred between surveys 63 days apart. This event marked the end of a period of severely reduced creep on the southern part of the fault that began after the 1989 Loma Prieta, California, earthquake. The reduction in creep was consistent with elastic models for earthquake-induced static stress changes on the Hayward fault. These data suggest that creep observations can indicate regional stress changes of about 1 bar or less.
A framework for designing adaptive DSS Interfaces

Abstract In addition to customary problem domain knowledge, a decision support system could benefit from the accomodation of two other types of knowledge: user knowledge and self knowledge. Past DSS research has focused on domain knowledge in various guises including data, procedures, rules sets, text, forms, spreadsheets and so on. In introducing the two new knowledge system dimensions, we argue that they are crucial to thinking about what it means for a DSS to have adaptive, easy-to-use interfaces. Based on a human support system metaphor, the framework presented here is also an important step in the direction of designing, implementing and researching such interfaces.
Synthesis of two analogs of a cyclic hexapeptide with disulfide bridge corresponding to bovine prothrombin precursor sequence 18-23. Extent of carboxylation by Vitamin K-Dependent carboxylase.

The synthesis of two analogs of sequence 18–23 of bovine prothrombin precursor is described. Hexapeptides Boc-Cys(Acm)-Leu-Glu(OBzl)-Glu (OBzl)-Pro-Cys(Acm)-OBzl and Ac-Cys(Acm)-Leu-Glu(OBzl)-Glu(OBzl)-Pro-Cys(Acm)-OMe were synthesized in solution by stepwise addition of Boc-amino acids using dicyclohexylcarbodiimide/N-hydroxybenzotriazole as the coupling reagent. The acetamidomethyl groups were cleaved and oxidized, using iodine in methanol, to the protected cyclic disulfide in 62–69% yield. The 0-benzyl groups were removed either by treatment with anhydrous hydrogen fluoride or hydrogen bromide in trifluoroacetic acid to give the cyclic hexapeptide disulfides, R1-Cys-Leu-Glu-Glu-Pro-Cys-OR2 where R1, = H or Ac and R2 = H or CH3. The cyclic hexapeptides were evaluated as substrates for vitamin K-dependent carboxylase. Both peptides are unusually poor substrates for the carboxylase, and each appears to inhibit carboxylation of Phe-Leu-Glu-Glu-Leu, a good substrate for the enzyme.
Microvascular surgery in a bloodless field.

Although tourniquets play an integral role in extremity surgery, no clear guidelines exist for the use of tourniquets in microsurgery. We undertook a study in 12 healthy volunteers to better understand the coagulation properties of blood distal to an inflated tourniquet. At a 15-min inflation time, blood distal to an inflated tourniquet clots faster than blood taken from the opposite arm after addition of exogenous thrombin (12.5 s vs 17.5 s, P < 0.0001). Neither fibrinopeptide A (FPA) levels nor tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) levels were different from those of controls. Tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI), an endogenous local anticoagulant, was slightly but significantly elevated in tourniquet blood. Although much remains to be understood, we believe that microvascular surgery in a bloodless field is safe and efficacious. Nine patients are presented who successfully underwent microvascular surgery in a bloodless field, using various types of extremity tourniquets.
Crystal structures of human bifunctional enzyme aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide transformylase/IMP cyclohydrolase in complex with potent sulfonyl-containing antifolates

Abstract Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR) transformylase/IMP cyclohydrolase (ATIC) is a bifunctional enzyme with folate-dependent AICAR transformylase and IMP cyclohydrolase activities that catalyzes the last two steps of purine biosynthesis. The AICAR transformylase inhibitors BW1540 and BW2315 are sulfamido-bridged 5,8-dideazafolate analogs with remarkably potent Ki values of 8 and 6 nm, respectively, compared with most other antifolates. Crystal structures of ATIC at 2.55 and 2.60 A with each inhibitor, in the presence of substrate AICAR, revealed that the sulfonyl groups dominate inhibitor binding and orientation through interaction with the proposed oxyanion hole. These agents then appear to mimic the anionic transition state and now implicate Asn431′ in the reaction mechanism along with previously identified key catalytic residues Lys266 and His267. Potent and selective inhibition of the AICAR transformylase active site, compared with other folate-dependent enzymes, should therefore be pursued by further design of sulfonyl-containing antifolates.
On the Burden of Proof

The phrase ‘burden of proof’ or ‘onus probandi’ originally referred to something determined by a judge in a legal proceeding. Some claims would be accepted as true by the court, and other relevant claims would require proving. The burden of doing this proving could be assigned to one or another party by the judge. Success or failure to meet this burden could be determined by the judge or the jury, as could consequences of success or failure.
Comparison of shaking versus baking: further understanding the energetics of a mechanochemical reaction

Using a mechanically driven Diels–Alder reaction we were able to characterize the chemical energetics of a SPEX 8000M mixer/mill. Our results demonstrate that the conditions produced by this type of mill are similar to those produced when performing the same reaction at 90 °C in solution. Discrete element models and in situ temperature logging were used to analyse the energetics of this system. These models indicate that the yields obtained using a SPEX 8000M mill are best correlated to the velocity of the media and number of non-zero force collisions.
Purification to Homogeneity and Properties of UDP-GlcNAc (GalNAc) Pyrophosphorylase

The pyrophosphorylase that condenses UTP and GlcNAc-1-P was purified 9500-fold to near homogeneity from the soluble fraction of pig liver extracts. At the final stage of purification, the enzyme was quite stable and could be kept for at least 4 months in the freezer with only slight loss of activity. On native gels, the purified enzyme showed a single protein band, and this band was estimated to have a molecular mass of approximately125 kDa on Sephacryl S-300. SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis of the enzyme gave three protein bands of 64, 57, and 49 kDa, but these polypeptides are all closely related based on the following. 1) All three polypeptides show strong cross-reactivity with antibody prepared against the 64-kDa band. 2) All three proteins become labeled with either the UDP-GlcNAc photoaffinity probe azido-125I-salicylate-allylamine-UDP-GlcNAc or a similar UDP-GalNAc photoaffinity probe, and either labeling was inhibited in a specific and concentration-dependent manner by unlabeled UDP-GlcNAc or UDP-GalNAc. Thus, the enzyme is probably a homodimer composed of two 64-kDa subunits. The purified enzyme had an unusual specificity in that, at higher substrate concentrations, it utilized UDP-GalNAc as a substrate as well as UDP-GlcNAc in the reverse direction and GalNAc-1-P as well as GlcNAc-1-P in the forward direction. However, the Km for the GalNAc substrates was considerably higher than that for GlcNAc derivatives. This activity for synthesizing UDP-GalNAc was not due to epimerase activity since no UDP-GalNAc could be detected when the enzyme was incubated with UDP-GlcNAc for various periods of time. The pyrophosphorylase required a divalent cation, with Mn2+ being best at 0.5-1 mM, and the pH optimum was between 8.5 and 8.9.
Evaluating the potential use of winter cover crops in corn–soybean systems for sustainable co-production of food and fuel

Abstract Climate change and economic concerns have motivated intense interest in the development of renewable energy sources, including fuels derived from plant biomass. However, the specter of massive biofuel production has raised other worries, specifically that by displacing food production it will lead to higher food prices, increased incidence of famine, and acceleration of undesirable land use change. One proposed solution is to increase the annual net primary productivity of the existing agricultural land base, so that it can sustainably produce both food and biofuel feedstocks. This might be possible in corn and soybean production regions through the use of winter cover crops, but the biophysical feasibility of this has not been systematically explored. We developed a model for this purpose that simulates the potential biomass production and water use of winter rye in continuous corn and corn–soybean rotations. The input data requirements represent an attempt to balance the demands of a physically and physiologically defensible simulation with the need for broad applicability in space and time. The necessary meteorological data are obtainable from standard agricultural weather stations, and the required management data are simply planting dates and harvest dates for corn and soybeans. Physiological parameters for rye were taken from the literature, supplemented by experimental data specifically collected for this project. The model was run for a number of growing seasons for 8 locations across the Midwestern USA. Results indicate potential rye biomass production of 1–8 Mg ha−1, with the lowest yields at the more northern sites, where both PAR and degree-days are limited in the interval between fall corn harvest and spring corn or soybean planting. At all sites rye yields are substantially greater when the following crop is soybean rather than corn, since soybean is planted later. Not surprisingly, soil moisture depletion is most likely in years and sites where rye biomass production is greatest. Consistent production of both food and biomass from corn/winter rye/soybean systems will probably require irrigation in many areas and additional N fertilizer, creating possible environmental concerns. Rye growth limitations in the northern portion of the corn belt may be partially mitigated with aerial seeding of rye into standing corn.
Modeling Rotating Stratified Turbulent Flows with Application to Oceanic Mixed Layers

Abstract Rotational effects on turbulence structure and mixing are investigated using a second-moment closure model. Both explicit and implicit Coriolis terms are considered. A general criterion for rotational effects to be small is established in terms of local turbulent Rossby numbers. Characteristic length scales are determined for rotational effects and Monin–Obukhov type similarity theory is developed for rotating stratified flows. A one-dimensional version of the closure model is then applied to simulate oceanic mixed layer evolution. It is shown that the effects of rotation on mixed layer depth tend to be small because of the influence of stable stratification. These findings contradict a hypothesis of Garwood et al. that rotational effects on turbulence are responsible for the disparity in the mixed-layer depths between the eastern and western regions of the equatorial Pacific Ocean. The model is also applied to neutrally stratified flows to demonstrate that rotation can either stabilize or destab...
Molecular dynamics calculation of elastic constants for a crystalline system in equilibrium

We have performed molecular dynamics calculations for a crystalline system in equilibrium to show that by using a fluctuation formula involving the internal stress tensor it is possible to calculate the elastic constants at the ambient temperature with ease and accuracy. The method also allows one to calculate the elastic constants when the system is subjected to an arbitrary external stress.
Changes in free-living bacterial community diversity reflect the magnitude of environmental variability.

A 2-year study was undertaken to compare patterns in the diversity of free-living bacteria in a river-dominated estuary and offshore, on the shelf, to determine whether changes in the free-living bacterial community could be related to differences in environmental seasonality and variability. Although the environmental conditions inshore were significantly more variable than those on the shelf and demonstrated clear seasonal patterns, there were no significant differences in the alpha diversity of the communities based on richness, evenness, or phylogenetic diversity. Comparison of communities using Bray–Curtis similarity indicated no significant differences in the magnitude of change between sequential samples from inshore and on the shelf. Seasonal differences were detected both inshore and on the shelf. However, analysis using the weighted UniFrac distance indicated significantly lower overall change between shelf samples with no significant seasonal differences. These findings suggest different patterns of change between the two sites. Inshore, changes in the relative abundance of distantly related bacterial species reflect the larger environmental variability, while on the shelf, changes in the relative abundance of closely related bacterial species or strains may result in a more functionally stable community. Thus, the magnitude of environmental change can alter patterns of bacterial diversity in marine systems.
Avalanches and waves in the Abelian sandpile model

We numerically study avalanches in the two-dimensional Abelian sandpile model in terms of a sequence of waves of toppling events. Priezzhev {ital et al.} [Phys. Rev. Lett. {bold 76}, 2093 (1996)] have recently proposed exact results for the critical exponents in this model based on the existence of a proposed scaling relation for the difference in sizes of subsequent waves, {Delta}s=s{sub k}{minus}s{sub k+1}, where the size of the previous wave s{sub k} was considered to be almost always an upper bound for the size of the next wave s{sub k+1}. Here we show that the significant contribution to {Delta}s comes from waves that violate the bound; the average {l_angle}{Delta}s(s{sub k}){r_angle} is actually negative and diverges with the system size, contradicting the proposed solution. {copyright} {ital 1997} {ital The American Physical Society}
Characteristics of the Pennsylvanian Lower-Middle Haymond Delta-Front Sandstones, Marathon Basin, West Texas

The lower-middle part of the Pennsylvanian Haymond Formation in the Marathon Basin, west Texas, consists of interbedded sandstone, siltstone, and shale, which have been traditionally interpreted as turbidites deposited in deep water. Comparisons of the internal structures and mean grain size of the turbiditelike sandstone to Bouma9s (1962) classical turbidite sequence suggest important dissimilarities. The majority of the Haymond turbidite-like sandstone beds displays only one kind of internal structure — cross-lamination, which can be subdivided into trough and flaser subtypes. Other turbiditelike sandstones in which two kinds of internal structure are found appear to have some similarities to Bouma9s sequence; however, their general lack of normal grading indicates that turbidity currents played only a very minor depositional role. On the bases of the internal structures, grain-size distributions, and mineralogic and bed-thickness variations, it is suggested that the sandstone was probably deposited on a sloping, delta-front platform on which currents generated by waves, tide, and wind have constantly acted upon the sediments that were periodically flushed from nearby distributary channels. During flood stages in distributary channels or during storms, high-velocity currents and turbulence may have developed, thus modifying depositional processes on the platform to produce turbiditelike sedimentation.
A technique for in vivo mapping of myocardial creatine kinase metabolism

ATP derived from the conversion of phosphocreatine to creatine by creatine kinase provides an essential chemical energy source that governs myocardial contraction. Here, we demonstrate that the exchange of amine protons from creatine with protons in bulk water can be exploited to image creatine through chemical exchange saturation transfer (CrEST) in myocardial tissue. We show that CrEST provides about two orders of magnitude higher sensitivity compared to (1)H magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Results of CrEST studies from ex vivo myocardial tissue strongly correlate with results from (1)H and (31)P magnetic resonance spectroscopy and biochemical analysis. We demonstrate the feasibility of CrEST measurement in healthy and infarcted myocardium in animal models in vivo on a 3-T clinical scanner. As proof of principle, we show the conversion of phosphocreatine to creatine by spatiotemporal mapping of creatine changes in the exercised human calf muscle. We also discuss the potential utility of CrEST in studying myocardial disorders.
Multibody Dynamics in Generalized Divide and Conquer Algorithm (GDCA) Scheme

Generalized divide and conquer algorithm (GDCA) is presented in this paper. In this new formulation, generalized forces appear explicitly in handle equations in addition to the spatial forces, absolute and generalized coordinates which have already been used in the original version of DCA. To accommodate these generalized forces in handle equations, a transformation is presented in this paper which provides an equivalent spatial force as an explicit function of a given generalized force. Each generalized force is then replaced by its equivalent spatial force applied from the appropriate parent body to its child body at the connecting joint without violating the dynamics of the original system. GDCA can be widely used in multibody problems in which a part of the forcing information is provided in generalized format. Herein, the application of the GDCA in controlling multibody systems in which the known generalized forces are fedback to the system is explained. It is also demonstrated that in inverse dynamics and closed-loop control problems in which the imposed constraints are often expressed in terms of generalized coordinates, a set of unknown generalized forces must be considered in the dynamics of system. As such, using both spatial and generalized forces, GDCA can be widely used to model these complicated multibody systems if it is desired to benefit from the computational advantages of the DCA.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
The comparative virulence of thermotolerant Mucorales species in mice

The comparative virulence of thermotolerant Mucorales was determined for cortisone-treated and untreated Swiss mice by intravenous administration of spores. The measure of virulence was based on an LD50 value, calculated after the 30-day observation period. Of the known etiological agents of mucormycosis, Mucor meihei, M. pusillus, Rhizopus arrhizus, R. chinensis, R. cohnii, R. microsporus, R. oryzae, R. rhizopodiformis and Cunninghamella elegans were able to produce fatal infections in mice; whereas, Mucor alternons, M. ramosissimus and Syncephalastrum racemosum were avirulent at dosages of up to 105 spores. Of those thermotolerant species which have not been reported to cause mucormycosis in human beings, Radiomyces embreei, R. spectabilis, Rhizopus oligosporus and Thermomucor indicae-seudaticae were found to produce fatal infections in mice; whereas, an isolate of Mycotypha africana was avirulent. Cortisone treatment of mice was found to lower their resistance to infection at a given spore dosage as measured by ET50 values.
Spatial and temporal impacts of a diesel fuel spill on stream invertebrates

SUMMARY 1. We assessed the effects of a 26 500 L diesel fuel spill on the macroinvertebrate fauna of a small trout stream in central New York, U.S.A. To determine the spatial extent of the spill we sampled three locations (0.7, 5.0 and 11.8 km downstream of the spill), each containing a reference site (unaffected tributary) and an impact site (downstream of spill). Sampling was repeated four times over a 15-month period to assess temporal recovery. 2. Immediately after the spill, invertebrate density at all three locations below the spill was significantly lower than reference density. Three months after the spill, density up to 5 km below the spill was still far lower (<100 individuals per sample) than reference density (800‐1200 individuals per sample). A year after the spill, density was similar between reference and impact sites, suggesting that invertebrates had recovered numerically. 3. Taxonomic richness up to 5.0 km below the spill was less than half the reference taxonomic richness and this difference persisted for at least 3 months. Some significant differences between reference and impact sites were observed after 15 months, but these differences could not be attributed to the oil spill. 4. For at least 3 months following the spill, the site immediately downstream of the spill was dominated by Optioservus, a petrochemical-tolerant riffle beetle. Twelve to 15 months after the spill, both the reference and impact sites near the spill were dominated numerically by the mayfly Ephemerella, but the degree of dominance was twice as large at the impact site. 5. We concluded that the diesel fuel spill significantly reduced the density of invertebrates (by 90%) and taxonomic richness (by 50%) at least 5.0 km downstream, but density recovered within a year. Throughout the study, however, the fauna immediately below the spill was species poor and significantly over-represented by a single dominant taxon, suggesting that 15 months was not sufficient for full community recovery from the oil spill.
P4 activation by lanthanum and lutetium naphthalene complexes supported by a ferrocene diamide ligand

Two rare-earth (La and Lu) naphthalene complexes supported by a ferrocene diamide ligand activate P4 under ambient conditions to form M 3P7 species exclusively. The resulting complexes feature a Zintl-type polyphosphide P7 3- unit stabilized by three lanthanide fragments. The reported metal complexes were characterized by X-ray crystallography, multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. © 2013 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.
Wavelength-selective Infrared Detectors Based on Cross Patterned Resistive Sheets

The use of a cross-shaped patterned resistive sheet as an infrared-selective absorber, including the effects of a SiNx mechanical support dielectric layer is discussed. These cross patterned resistive sheets are a modified form of classical Salisbury Screens that utilize a resistive absorber layer placed a quarter-wavelength in front of a mirror. In comparison with previously designed patterned resistive sheets that have only a single resistive layer with rectangular patterned holes, here we consider a resistive absorber layer and a support dielectric layer with cross patterned holes through both the resistive absorption layer and the support layer.
Induced apical closure of immature pulpless teeth in monkeys.

Abstract The results of a radiographic and histologic study of twenty-seven monkey teeth indicate that periapical healing and the formation of calcified tissue at the root ends of pulpless, infected, immature teeth can occur after either of two treatments: filling of the canal with a paste dressing or use of an induced blood clot. The best chance for success with inducing apical closure is in those cases in which the pulpal and periapical pathosis has not been present very long. If pulpal necrosis is not complete, a more normal type of root continuation can be expected. When complete necrosis and extensive periapical destruction are present, the chances of successful results are lessened, particularly if a negative culture cannot be obtained.
Meconium-stained amniotic fluid is associated with puerperal infections ☆

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to determine whether meconium-stained amniotic fluid is associated with puerperal infection and whether the quality of the meconium is further associated with this risk. Study design We designed a retrospective cohort study of all deliveries beyond 37 weeks gestational age from 1992 to 2002 at a single community hospital. Data were collected on rates of chorioamnionitis, endomyometritis, quality of amniotic fluid, and length of labor and analyzed with bivariate and multivariate analyses. Results We found that, among the 43,200 women who were delivered at term, 18.9% of the women had meconium staining (8.8% thin, 5.5% moderate, 4.6% thick). Compared with deliveries with clear amniotic fluid, those with meconium-stained amniotic fluid had higher rates of chorioamnionitis (2.3% vs 4.1%, P Conclusion We found that the presence and severity of meconium-stained amniotic fluid is associated with puerperal infection even when being controlled for confounders.
Dendritic near-IR absorbing zinc phthalocyanines for antimicrobial photodynamic therapy

Abstract Design, synthesis, characterization, and photodynamic activity of dendritic, water-soluble zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) isomers 1a and 1b are described. Bearing terminal triethylene glycol (TEG) moieties as water solubilizing groups that were attached to the Pc core using Cu(I) catalyzed alkyne–azide cycloaddition (CuAAC), 1a and 1b are readily soluble in H2O, polar aprotic, and protic organic solvents. UV/Vis analyses indicate that the Q band of the non-peripheral ZnPc 1b is ca. 80 nm red-shifted relative to the peripheral one with absorption at 805 nm (distilled water). 1a and 1b have log D7.4 values of 0.22 and 0.05, respectively, suggesting that the non-peripheral substitution improved the overall hydrophilicity. Aggregation studies indicate that non-peripherally substituted 1b is significantly less aggregated in aqueous media than peripherally substituted 1a. Singlet oxygen generation studies are reported. Both ZnPcs showed negligible dark toxicity on bacteria and yeast with 10 μM 1a and 1b. Illumination (400–850 nm) of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with 10 μM of 1a produced a 90% cell inactivation while Acinetobacter baumannii with 10 μM 1b showed detection limit (99.9999+%) cell inactivation, demonstrating the antimicrobial photoactivity of these dyes.
Bleed-through and photobleaching correction in multiphoton FRET microscopy

Fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) microscopy provides a tool to visualize the protein with high spatial and temporal resolution. In multi-photon FRET microscopy one experiences considerably less photobleaching compared to one-photon excitation since the illumination is the diffraction limited spot and the excitation is infrared-pulsed laser light. Because of the spectral overlap involved in the selection of the fluorophore pair for FRET imaging, the spectral bleed-through signal in the FRET channel is unavoidable. We describe in this paper the development of dedicated software to correct the bleed-through signal due to donor and acceptor fluorophore molecules. We used living cells expressed with BFP-RFP (DsRed)-C/EBP(alpha) proteins in the nucleus. We acquired images of different combinations like donor alone, acceptor alone, and both acceptor and donor under similar conditions. We statistically evaluated the percentage of bleed-through signal from one channel to the other based on the overlap areas of the spectra. We then reconstructed the images after applying the correction. Characterization of multi-photon FRET imaging system taking into account the intensity, dwell time, concentration of fluorophore pairs, objective lens and the excitation wavelength are described in this paper.
In vivo alterations in drug metabolism and transport pathways in patients with chronic kidney diseases.

Study Objective This study was designed to prospectively evaluate the in vivo activities of drug transporters, metabolizing enzymes, and pharmacokinetics in patients with chronic kidney diseases (CKD) caused by glomerulonephritis and nonglomerular etiologies. Design A prospective study design. Participants Eighteen adults with CKD. Setting General Clinical Research Center at the University of North Carolina and University of Pittsburgh. Measurement and Main Results Blood and urine were collected and assayed for fexofenadine (transporter function) as well as flurbiprofen and 4-hydroxyflurbiprofen (CYP2C9 function). CYP3A4 activity was assessed by the erythromycin breath test. In patients with glomerulonephritis, the apparent oral clearance of fexofenadine (representing transporter activity) was 58.8 ± 34.4 L/hour, documenting a 40% reduction compared with previous data in healthy controls. The CYP2C9 pathway (4-hydroxyflurbiprofen formation clearance) was similar in all the patients with CKD and was concordant with previous reports of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and healthy controls. For flurbiprofen, patients with glomerulonephritis had higher oral clearance than those with nonglomerular CKD, suggesting higher unbound fraction and enhanced metabolism through other (non-CYP2C9) routes. No statistically significant differences in CYP3A4 activity were observed in either group of patients or when compared with results from previous studies of patients with ESRD or healthy controls. Conclusions The current study suggests no statistically significant differences in the in vivo activity of CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 in patients with either glomerulonephritis or nonglomerular CKD. However, there are clinical differences in transporter function as defined by at least a 25% reduction in activity in glomerulonephritis as opposed to healthy controls. A similarity in the in vivo function between patients with glomerulonephritis and ESRD, and between patients with glomerulonephritis and nonglomerular CKD was present despite significant differences in kidney function. Further in vivo and in vitro studies are necessary to fully understand the physiologic and disease-specific nuances that contribute to alterations in drug disposition in patients with kidney diseases.
TNFα Disrupts p130 and p107 Regulation of Mitotic Clonal Expansion and Induces Apoptosis During 3T3-L1 Adipocyte Differentiation • 456

TNFα Disrupts p130 and p107 Regulation of Mitotic Clonal Expansion and Induces Apoptosis During 3T3-L1 Adipocyte Differentiation • 456
Two-Photon Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging of Natural Coenzymes in Living Cells as a Function of Oxidative Stress

Mitochondria play vital roles in energy metabolism, apoptosis, oxidative stress, aging, and neurodegenerative disease [1]. In this contribution, we probe different aspects of cellular response to chemical-induced oxidative stress in living C3H10T1/2 cells using hydrogen peroxide, rotenone, and excess glucose. Using two-photon fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (2P-FLIM), we exploit the autofluorescence dynamics of natural coenzymes such as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH), flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) and flavoproteins as intrinsic biomarkers for oxidative stress. The effects of polarization selectivity in 2P-FLIM measurements are being investigated towards the development of a quantitative, genuine non-invasive 2P-FLIM of patho-physiological changes in living cells. The efficiency of 2P-FLIM cellular autofluorescence for monitoring changes in the metabolic and redox states of the cells is compared with conventional assays such as MitoSOX Red, JC-1, and Rhodamine-123 that are routinely used for oxidative stress studies. Our results help in the collective effort to establish cellular autofluorescence as a natural biomarker for biological and biomedical studies.1. Heikal, A.A. Intracellular coenzymes as natural biomarkers for metabolic activities and mitochondrial anomalies. Biomarkers in Medicine, 4(2): 241-63 (2010).
Thermodynamics of water–biopolymer interactions: Irreversible sorption by a single, uniform sorbent phase

In order to understand the mutual interactions between water and a biopolymer, thermodynamic analysis of sorption isotherms of water vapor by the biopolymer is necessary. These isotherms are irreversible and show sorption hysteresis. The reasons for such behavior are not established. As a continuation of previous work, general relationships for thermodynamic quantities of sorption are derived for the general case when the sorbent consists of two uniform phases. As in the case of a single sorbent phase, the Clausius–Clapeyron equation can be used to obtain differential entropies of sorption. Two special cases for the two-phase situation—equilibrium hysteresis and partial equilibrium hysteresis—are plausible models for the irreversibility seen in water–biopolymer interactions. When differential entropy of sorption is plotted as a function of amount of water sorbed per mole of biopolymer, irregularities are generally seen. It is suggested that these irregularities reflect changes in conformation and/or dynamics of the biopolymer molecule.
Dimensional preference and shift option

Dimensional preference of first grade children was determined by one of four modifications of a matching type preference test. The data suggested that contradictory conclusions regarding the relationship between dimensional preference and shift performance reported in past studies are not due to use of a matching, as opposed to a discrimination type preference test, per se. Further study of the matching type preference test was recommended.
Nomogram to Aid Selection of Patients for Short-Stay Thyroidectomy Based on Risk of Postoperative Hypocalcemia

Objective To develop statistical prediction tools to select patients for short-stay thyroidectomy based on dynamic quantification of individual risk for postoperative hypocalcemia. Design Clinical and biochemical factors that could influence postoperative calcium levels were analyzed. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to study the predictive ability of each variable for hypocalcemia. A step-down model reduction selection method was used to rank the predictors according to their predictive accuracy. Setting Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Patients A test population of 393 patients who met our inclusion criteria and who underwent total thyroidectomy at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in the year 2008 made up the modeling data set, 116 of whom developed biochemical hypocalcemia postoperatively (29.5%). The nomograms were validated on an independent data set consisting of 296 selected patients who underwent total thyroidectomy during the year 2005, using the same selection criteria for inclusion as those for the modeling data set. Main Outcome Measures The 8 predictors with the highest predictive accuracy were selected to generate a nomogram, which was validated both internally and externally using an independent data set. A second nomogram was developed for assessing the probability of a patient stay of 24 hours or shorter, based on preoperative and intraoperative factors. Results The 8 variables of highest predictive value were age, sex, medications, history of cancer, preoperative serum calcium level, creatinine concentration, central neck dissection, and alkaline phosphatase levels. A nomogram was created based on the final parsimonious model. The nomogram had excellent accuracy (concordance index of 74.6%) and scored high on internal validation tests. The concordance index of the second nomogram for predicting the likelihood of discharge from the hospital within 24 hours was 70%. Conclusion We have produced a set of nomograms that can dynamically quantify the risk of postthyroidectomy hypocalcemia and prolonged hospital stay based on preoperative clinical and biochemical variables and intraoperative surgical variables.
Hyperventilation in Panic Disorder and Asthma: Empirical Evidence and Clinical Strategies

Sustained or spontaneous hyperventilation has been associated with a variety of physical symptoms and has been linked to a number of organic illnesses and mental disorders. Theories of panic disorder hold that hyperventilation either produces feared symptoms of hypocapnia or protects against feared suffocation symptoms of hypercapnia. Although the evidence for both theories is inconclusive, findings from observational, experimental, and therapeutic studies suggest an important role of low carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in this disorder. Similarly, hypocapnia and associated hyperpnia are linked to bronchoconstriction, symptom exacerbation, and lower quality of life in patients with asthma. Raising CO2 levels by means of therapeutic capnometry has proven beneficial effects in both disorders, and the reversing of hyperventilation has emerged as a potent mediator for reductions in panic symptom severity and treatment success.