cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chromatin and higher-order chromosome organization shape the recombination landscape in C. elegans

Meiotic recombination generates crossovers, which physically link homologous chromosomes, and direct their segregation to opposite poles. Despite the benefits, crossovers are restricted both in number as well as spatially. Crossovers in the nematode C. elegans occur most frequently within the distal regions (or “arms”) of the chromosomes, which comprise ~50% of the genome, but ~90% of the genetic map length. Meiotic recombination initiates with the formation of programmed double strand breaks (DSBs) catalyzed by the SPO-11 enzyme. It has been unclear whether the crossover bias in C. elegans is a consequence of DSB distribution, or instead reflects a mechanism that biases the downstream repair outcome of DSBs. In order to address this, we generated a genome-wide map of meiotic DSBs by mapping the distribution of the sole C. elegans RecA-like recombinase, RAD-51, by ChIP-seq. We have found that the RAD-51 binding pattern is strikingly similar to the known recombination pattern in C. elegans. The majority of RAD-51 binding sites occur on chromosome arms. Comparing RAD-51 distribution relative to functional genomic elements revealed that RAD-51 is particularly enriched in intronic DNA while coding sequences are underrepresented in RAD-51 occupied regions. We find that monomethylation of histone H3 lysine 36 (H3K36me1), which has not previously been associated with meiotic recombination, is highly correlated with break site preference. H3K36me1 is particularly enriched over active genes with high intron content, suggesting that the specific chromatin environment associated with these genes favors DSB formation in C. elegans. We have also identified a sequence motif that is highly overrepresented in DSB sites. Although the DSB pattern is highly correlated with crossover frequency, there are interesting exceptions. In particular, the sub-telomeric regions are completely devoid of crossovers but are active DSB sites. We have also identified a DNA sequence motif that appears to be enriched within DSB sites suggesting that sequence specific factors may have a role in DSB specification in C. elegans. In a parallel study, we have developed an Illumina Golden Gate SNP array to rapidly measure genome-wide recombination rates in C. elegans. Using this array we measured meiotic recombination rates in met-2(n4256) mutant animals. MET-2 is one of the two histone methyltransferases responsible for H3K9 methylation, a histone mark associated with heterochromatin. We find that the genetic map is significantly altered in met-2(n4256) mutant animals. In particular, regions that are normally enriched for H3K9 methylation show elevated recombination rates in met-2(n4256) mutants. We are currently investigating whether this change in the genetic map is the result of altered DSB distribution. Taken together, our data provide new insights into the role of chromatin in meiotic recombination. Because meiotic recombination generates genetic diversity, our data implicates chromatin as a key player in the evolution of genomes.
Effects of Ibuprofen on Endotoxin-Induced Alveolitis: Biphasic Dose Response and Dissociation Between Inflammation and Hypoxemia

ABSTRACT Ibuprofen is a cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor that is alleged to have additional direct effects on leukocyte function. These properties suggest that Ibuprofen may be of potential therapeutic value for neutrophil (PMN)-mediated acute lung injury in humans such as that resulting from septicemia by gram-negative organisms. This study quantitated the effect of pretreatment with Ibuprofen on the intensity of acute neutrophilic alveolitis following endotoxemia. The effect of Ibuprofen on neutrophilic alveolitis was biphasic: There was suppression of inflammation at a high dose (30 mg/kg), enhancement at a low dose (3 mg/kg), and intermediate doses (10-20 mg/kg) had no effect. In contrast, both 10 and 30 mg/kg of Ibuprofen prevented early hypoxemia following endotoxemia, suggesting that early hypoxemia and inflammation by neutrophils were not causally related. The dose of Ibuprofen required to suppress neutrophil alveolitis exceeds that required to inhibit cyclo-oxygenase in the model. Therefore, suppression of alveolitis by 30 mg/kg of Ibuprofen may depend on other pharmacologic properties of Ibuprofen such as its direct effect on neutrophil migration.
A Diagnostic Analysis of the VVP Single-Doppler Retrieval Technique

Abstract A diagnostic analysis of the VVP (volume velocity processing) retrieval method is presented, with emphasis on understanding the technique as a linear, multivariate regression. Similarities and differences to the velocity–azimuth display and extended velocity–azimuth display retrieval techniques are discussed, using this framework. Conventional regression diagnostics are then employed to quantitatively determine situations in which the VVP technique is likely to fail. An algorithm for preparation and analysis of a robust VVP retrieval is developed and applied to synthetic and actual datasets with high temporal and spatial resolution. A fundamental (but quantifiable) limitation to some forms of VVP analysis is inadequate sampling dispersion in the n space of the multivariate regression, manifest as a collinearity between the basis functions of some fitted parameters. Such collinearity may be present either in the definition of these basis functions or in their realization in a given sampling config...
Debonding of photoresist caused by Case II diffusion

A glassy polymeric photoresist bonded to a thin copper substrate was immersed in an organic penetrant environment. Debonding of the polymer layer from the substrate was observed by monitoring the deflection of the composite strip. The diffusion of the environment into the polymer layer was followed using Rutherford backscattering spectrometry. For all environments investigated the diffusion showed the characteristics of Case II diffusion, i.e. a uniformly swollen layer formed behind a sharp front and propagated into the polymer at a constant velocity. Even though the front velocity could be varied over three orders of magnitude by varying the environment or the temperature, debonding always occurred when the front had penetrated only about one-fifth of the total layer thickness. It is concluded that debonding is driven by release of the elastic strain energy stored in the composite strip rather than a specific attack of the interface by the environment. Additions of a smaller organic molecule to a predominately large organic molecule environment were found to produce a marked increase in the kinetics of debonding and a corresponding increase in the Case II front velocity. To discover the mechanism of this effect, experiments were carried out with mixtures of iodomethane and 1,1,1-trichloroethane (TCE). Rutherford backscattering spectra showed that the smaller iodomethane diffused ahead of the main Case II diffusion front of the TCE. It is proposed that the increase in Case II front velocity in the mixture results from the fact that the faster diffusing iodomethane preplasticizes the polymer ahead of the front.
Characterization of the Dopaminergic Regulation of Human Prolactin-Secreting Cells Cultured on Extracellular Matri

Human PRL-secreting adenoma cells were cultured on an extracellular matrix (ECM) secreted by bovine corneal endothelial cells, and their sensitivity to dopamine and dopaminergic agonists was examined. Cells plated on ECM attach rapidly, adopt a flattened morphology, and maintain stable PRL secretion for several weeks. Dopamine inhibited PRL secretion from tumor and nontumor cells on ECM in a dosedependent fashion, with IC50 values of 243 ± 29 and 76 ± 3.3 nM, respectively, and a maximal inhibition of 80% at 10-5 M. Apomorphine (APO), dihydroergocryptine (DHE), and bromocriptine (CB-154) also inhibited PRL secretion from adenoma cells in a dose-dependent fashion, with IC50 values of 24 ± 13, 0.35 ± 0.1, and 0.05 ± 0.01 nM, respectively. Thus, the rank order of potency of the dopamine agonists in inhibiting PRL secretion from adenoma cells was consistent with an interaction at a dopamine receptor: CB-154 > DHE > APO > dopamine. The dopamine antagonists, D-butaclamol, spiperone, domperidone, chlorpromazine, ...
Self-Prescription Practices in Recent Latino Immigrants

Objective: Self-prescription involves the purchase and use of restricted medications without medical advice. Although common in Central and South American countries, little is known about this practice among Latino immigrants in the United States. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to explore how Latino immigrants obtain and use prescription medications without accessing the formal health care system. Design: This exploratory descriptive study used focus groups to gain an understanding of the use of prescription medications without medical care. Sample: Three focus group discussions were held with 19 adult Latino immigrants who were new residents in the United States, and did not have health insurance; most were undocumented. Results: Analysis of the data revealed 4 major themes: (a) health care barriers, (b) cultural norms, (c) self-care, and (d) self-prescription. Conclusions: The data indicate that this population experiences significant barriers to accessing health care, forcing them to seek treatment alternatives including the purchase and use of drugs manufactured in Mexico. There are many public health and safety concerns related to self-prescription practices. Nurses need to be aware of the barriers to health care that lead to these potentially dangerous medication practices, and to recognize and understand self-prescription.
A “Metacourse” for Basic: Assessing a New Model for Enhancing Instruction

In response to a number of difficulties many beginners exhibit in trying to master a programming language such as BASIC or LOGO, a “metacourse” was developed to be integrated into a teacher's normal course materials as an enriching “vitamin shot.” The metacourse in BASIC consists of mental models, problem-solving strategies, key concepts, and other structures that may help students to understand more deeply and wield more artfully the knowledge they are acquiring during their regular instruction in BASIC. Highly encouraging results, in terms of increased mastery of BASIC, were found in two large scale empirical studies conducted in a number of high school BASIC programming classes. Metacourse classes exhibited improved performance on a variety of BASIC programming tasks, ranging from comprehension of simple commands to debugging and production of small programs. This same pattern was observed with interventions which offered teachers considerable support (Study 1), or the minimal support more typical of “...
Environmental Sensors and Algorithms for Ground-Based Passive Acoustic Sensors

Passive acoustic detection of ground targets is governed by both local and regional weather conditions such as wind and temperature. The wind speed generally increases with height and can also change direction, making accurate assessment of detection coverage a real challenge. In the absence of wind, the temperature profile, or variation with height, changes the refractive index such that sound will tend to refract towards the cooler air (the sound speed is slower there). A new ground sensor technology has been developed under DARPA's IUGS program which integrates temperature, temperature gradient, humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed and direction, and insolation (solar radiation/reflection) from a ground sensor measurement site with upper level wind and temperature data from weather databases. This data is used to model the sound velocity profile from the surface to a height approximately one-tenth the propagation range of interest. A parabolic equation sound propagation model then creates a table for the sound transmission loss variability with range, frequency, and direction. For a given target and background noise, one can then reasonably predict detection range for a specific sensor design. When the ground sensor has 'environmental intelligence,' it can alter its integration and detection algorithms for improved performance in a dynamic weather environment.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Using multisensory images to derive the structure of three-dimensional objects—A review

Deriving object descriptions which represent 3-dimensional structures has been approached using multiple 2-dimensional intensity images of a scene and, more recently, by employing specialized range sensing hardware that can directly measure all the spatial coordinates of points in a scene. This paper presents a brief synopsis of efforts using only intensity images and a more extensive review of research that incorporates range imagery. The strengths and weaknesses of both intensity and range domains are discussed with an eye toward combining them into a system that uses the advantages of each domain to offset the disadvantages of the other.
Influence of environmental enrichment on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) responses to single-dose nicotine, continuous nicotine by osmotic mini-pumps, and nicotine withdrawal by mecamylamine in male and female rats.

In the present study, we determined the effects of environmental enrichment (EE; Kong Toys® and Nestlets®) on sexually diergic HPA axis responses to single-dose nicotine (NIC), single-dose NIC following continuous NIC administration for two weeks, and NIC withdrawal by single-dose mecamylamine (MEC) in male and female rats. Blood sampling occurred before and after MEC and NIC administrations for the determination of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone (CORT). Supporting and extending our previous findings, EE appeared to produce anxiolytic effects by reducing hormone responses: Male and female rats housed with EE had lower baseline ACTH and significantly lower HPA axis responses to the mild stress of saline (SAL) injection than did those housed without EE. The sexually diergic responses to single dose NIC, continuous NIC, and MEC-induced NIC withdrawal were reduced by EE in many male and female groups. ACTH responses to continuous NIC and MEC-induced NIC withdrawal were blunted to a greater extent in female EE groups than in male EE groups, suggesting that females are more sensitive to the anxiolytic effects of EE. Because EE lowered stress-responsive hormones of the HPA axis in most groups, EE may be a useful intervention for stress reduction in animal models of NIC addiction. As well, the effectiveness of EE in animal studies of NIC withdrawal may enlighten human studies addressing coping styles and tobacco cessation in men and women.
85 Sr and 45 Ca absorption and intestinal mitochondria uptake after perfusion with calcium and strontium.

Abstract The small intestine of White Leghorn hens and pullets were perfused with solutions containing 0, 5, 25, or 125, mM. Ca or Sr and some additional hens were perfused with 2.5, 12.5 or 62.5 mM. Ca and Sr. 45 Ca and 85 Sr were added to part of the perfusate at tracer levels. The chickens were sacrificed immediately after perfusion and 45 Ca and 85 Sr contents of the mucosal mitochondria from 3 sections of the small intestine determined. More 45 Ca was absorbed than 85 Sr, the differences being influenced by the level and kind of alkaline earth in the perfusate. Increasing the alkaline earths decreased 85 Sr and 45 Ca absorption with Sr, alone, being less effective. The 125 mM. level of Ca or Sr or their combination, generally reduced the mitochondrial content of these radionuclides. At the 125 mM. Ca levels and with the Ca and Sr combinations the mitochondria from the last third of the small intestine usually had more 85 Sr and 45 Ca than the other two thirds.
Four-link mechanisms with cylindric, revolute and prismatic pairs

Abstract A complete set of single-degree-of-freedom four-bar linkages with cylindric, revolute and prismatic pairs is given. This list includes several previously unreported linkages. All linkages aer identified by equations which define the relations of their parameters.
Treatment of Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections with Cefsulodin

Skin and soft-tissue infections due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa were treated with intravenous infusions or intramuscular injections of cefsulodin sodium in an open, multicenter study. A total of 40 patients were evaluated to determine the safety and clinical and bacteriologic efficacy of cefsulodin. Cefsulodin was administered alone (31 patients) or in combination with a nonantipseudomonal antibiotic (nine patients) when additional infecting organisms were present. The duration of cefsulodin therapy ranged from two to 46 days (2-12 g/day). Twenty-five patients were treated at New Orleans hospitals for postoperative wound, traumatic wound, and skin ulcer infections with cefsulodin alone or in combination with nonantipseudomonal antibiotic. Therapy with cefsulodin (2-8 g/day) ranged from four to 37 days. P. aeruginosa was eradicated in all the patients, and all clinical responses were considered satisfactory. Fifteen patients were treated at the collaborative centers for postsurgical wound, traumatic wound, skin ulcer, cellulitis, and subcutaneous abscess infections. Therapy with cefsulodin (4-12 g/day) ranged from five to 45 days. The bacteriologic cure rate for assessable patients was 87% (13 of 15 patients), and a satisfactory clinical response was observed in 93% (14 of 15).
Epidemiology, Mechanisms, and Management of Diabetic Gastroparesis

Recent evidence of the significant impact of gastroparesis on morbidity and mortality mandates optimized management of this condition. Gastroparesis affects nutritional state, and in diabetics it has deleterious effects on glycemic control and secondary effects on organs that increase mortality. First-line treatments include restoration of nutrition and medications (prokinetic and antiemetic). We review the epidemiology, pathophysiology, impact, natural history, time trends, and treatment of gastroparesis, focusing on diabetic gastroparesis. We discuss pros and cons of current treatment options, including metoclopramide. Second-line therapeutic approaches include surgery, venting gastrostomy or jejunostomy, and gastric electrical stimulation; most of these were developed based on results from open-label trials. New therapeutic strategies for gastroparesis include drugs that target the underlying defects, prokinetic agents such as 5-hydroxytryptamine agonists that do not appear to have cardiac or vascular effects, ghrelin agonists, approaches to pace the stomach, and stem cell therapies.
Very long-chain fatty acid accumulation causes lipotoxic response via 5-lipoxygenase in cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy.

Abstract Childhood adrenoleukodystrophy (cALD) is a metabolic disorder in which very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFA) accumulate due to ALD protein gene defects, ultimately leading to lipotoxicity-induced neuroinflammatory demyelinating disease. Therefore, we examined VLCFA-mediated alterations in the metabolism of lipoxidative enzymes and inflammatory mediators in the cALD brain. 5-Lipoxygenase (5-LOX)-derived leukotrienes were significantly elevated in all the areas of white matter in the cALD brain. Unlike cyclooxygenase-2 expression, which was moderately high only in the plaque area, expression of 5-LOX and cytosolic phospholipase A2 was prominent in all the areas. This lipoxidative burden in the cALD brain was further shown by reduced levels of glutathione and enhanced expression of heat shock protein-70/manganese superoxide dismutase. These pathological observations were confirmed through in vitro mechanistic investigation. After increasing VLCFA through silencing Abcd1+Abcd2 in mouse primary astrocytes, enhanced expression of 5-LOX was observed, and this increased expression was blocked by treatment with monoenoic fatty acids. These results link the previously observed accumulation of VLCFA in cALD to the 5-LOX enzyme pathway. A similar increase in 5-LOX expression in astrocytes was also detected following treatment with exogenous VLCFA (C26:0). In sum, through 5-LOX activation, VLCFA accumulation causes a lipotoxic response consistent with cALD brain pathology.
Effect of flavanone on mixed-function oxidase and conjugation reactions in rats.

1. Flavanone administered to female Fischer 344 rats (1.00mmol/kg per day for seven days) did not induce ethylmorphine demethylation, aniline hydroxylation, hexobarbital oxidation or aldrin epoxidation.2. Flavanone at 0.05mmol/kg per day for seven days increased glutathione-S- transferase activity with 1,2-dichloro-4-nitrobenzene and 1,2-epoxy-3-(p-nitrophenoxy) propane as substrates.3. Flavanone at 0.05 mmol/kg per day for seven days increased the glucuronidation of 1-naphthol, and at 0.20 mmol/kg increased the glucuronidation of chloramphenicol.4. Flavanone administration did not alter sulphotransferase activity with 2-naphthol as the substrate and did not enhance glutathione-S-transferase or glucuronyltransferase activity when added in vitro.
Distributed joint channel assignment, routing and scheduling for wireless mesh networks

We present the JARS (joint channel assignment, routing and scheduling) scheme for ad hoc wireless networks in which nodes are endowed with multiple radios. JARS is one example of the benefits gained by the integration of routing, scheduling, and channel assignment by using the multiple radios at each node to transmit and receive simultaneously on different orthogonal channels. Instead of choosing the optimal route based on the predetermined transmission scheduling and channel assignment results, JARS incorporates the efficiency of underlying channel assignment and scheduling information into the routing metric calculation so that the route with the maximal joint spatial and frequency reuse is selected. Once a path is established, the channel assignment and link scheduling are also determined at the same time. JARS also adapts different channel assignment and scheduling strategies according to the different communication patterns of broadcast and unicast transmissions. Simulation results show that JARS efficiently exploits the channel diversity and spatial reuse features of a multi-channel multi-radio system.
On deciding trace equivalences for processes

Abstract In this paper, we investigate the complexity of deciding trace, maximal trace and ω-trace equivalences for finite state processes and recursively defined processes specified by normed context-free grammars (CFGs) in Greibach normal form (GNF). The main results are as follows: 1. (1) Trace, maximal trace and ω-trace equivalences for processes specified by normed GNF CFGs are all undecidable. For this class of processes, the regularity problem with respect to trace, maximal trace or ω-trace equivalence is also undecidable. Moreover, all these undecidability results hold even for locally unary processes. For processes specified by unary GNF CFGs, the maximal trace equivalence is Π 2 p -complete while the ω-trace equivalence is NL-complete and the trace equivalence is decidable in polynomial time by a dynamic programming algorithm. 2. (2) Trace, maximal trace and ω-trace equivalences for finite state processes are PSPACE-complete. This holds even for locally unary finite state processes. For unary finite state processes, the maximal trace equivalence is co-NP-complete while trace and ω-trace equivalences are NL-complete.
Educational policy for Korean students in Japan

Abstract Koreans constitute one of the largest minority groups in Japan. Currently, both North Korean and South Korean schools are suffering from declining enrollments. Part of the reason for this enrollment decline lies in the fact that the extreme academic competition for further education under the standardized examination system makes it difficult for Korean students and their parents to maintain their ethnic and cultural identities. To become more competitive, many Koreans are moving toward complete assimilation despite the international trend of increased awareness of minority rights.
Formation of Well-defined Embryoid Bodies from Dissociated Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells using Microfabricated Cell-repellent Microwell Arrays

A simple, scalable, and reproducible technology that allows direct formation of large numbers of homogeneous and synchronized embryoid bodies (EBs) of defined sizes from dissociated human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) was developed. Non-cell-adhesive hydrogels were used to create round-bottom microwells to host dissociated hiPSCs. No Rho-associated kinase inhibitor (ROCK-i), or centrifugation was needed and the side effects of ROCK-i can be avoided. The key requirement for the successful EB formation in addition to the non-cell-adhesive round-bottom microwells is the input cell density per microwell. Too few or too many cells loaded into the microwells will compromise the EB formation process. In parallel, we have tested our microwell-based system for homogeneous hEB formation from dissociated human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). Successful production of homogeneous hEBs from dissociated hESCs in the absence of ROCK-i and centrifugation was achieved within an optimal range of input cell density per microwell. Both the hiPSC- and hESC-derived hEBs expressed key proteins characteristic of all the three developmental germ layers, confirming their EB identity. This novel EB production technology may represent a versatile platform for the production of homogeneous EBs from dissociated human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs).
Cyclic Testing of Welded HSS-to-HSS Moment Connections for Seismic Applications

AbstractHollow structural sections (HSS) are currently underutilized in seismic moment frame systems as possible alternatives to typical wide-flange members. To explore the potential use of HSS moment connections in seismic moment frame systems and evaluate connection detailing requirements, experimental tests of welded unreinforced and reinforced HSS-to-HSS connections are conducted under increasing cyclic rotations to failure. The behavior of the unreinforced connections is limited by their inability to isolate inelasticity to the beam member and panel zone region leading to eventual fracture at lower than anticipated drift levels. However, through plate and external diaphragm plate reinforced HSS-to-HSS moment connections are able to move the location of inelasticity into the HSS beam member resulting in desired beam plastic hinging. Although the unreinforced connections have limited ductility, the reinforced connection detailing leads to stable degradation of the moment capacity at increasing drift le...
Drosophila memory: dopamine signals punishment

Dopamine-containing neurons are widespread in the fly brain and have been implicated in negatively reinforced memory. Current technology allows the investigator to watch dopaminergic neurons in action in the brain of a learning fly.
Abstract 5348: Detection of herpes simplex viruses in thyroid cancer

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Introduction: There is limited information about the role of herpesviridae viruses in thyroid cancer. Materials and Methods: Thyroid tissues from 109 patients with benign (44) and malignant (65) lesions were analyzed for HSV1 and HSV2 DNA. Confirmatory studies included direct sequencing, analysis of viral gene expression and activation of viral-inducible signaling pathways. Expression of viral entry receptor Nectin-1 was examined in human samples and in cancer cell lines. In vitro experiments were performed to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying thyroid cancer cell susceptibility to HSV. Results: HSV was detected in 43/109 (39.4%) of examined samples. HSV positive tumors were characterized by interferon-beta expression, nuclear NFkB expression and Akt activation. Lymphocytes infiltration and oncocytic cellular features were common in HSV positive tumors. HSV1 was detected with same frequency in benign and malignant thyroid tumors. HSV2 was significantly associated with papillary thyroid cancer and presence of lymph nodes metastases. Nectin-1 expression was increased in thyroid tumors compared to normal thyroid tissue and further increased in papillary thyroid cancer. The level of Nectin-1 expression in cancer cell lines correlated with their susceptibility to HSV. Inhibition of PI3K/AKT or MAPK/ERK signaling did not affect the level of Nectin-1 expression but decreased thyroid cancer cell susceptibility to HSV. Thyroid cancer cell with epithelial-like morphology underwent epithelial to mesenchymal transition after chronic exposure to TNF. Induction of epithelial to mesenchymal transition was associated with increased thyroid cancer cell susceptibility to HSV. Conclusion. HSV was detected in human thyroid tumors and HSV2 was associated with metastatic thyroid cancers. In vivo and vitro data showed that during tumor progression thyroid cells acquire increased susceptibility to HSV due to 1) increased expression of viral entry mediator Nectin-1; 2) activation of mitogenic signaling and 3) induction of EMT in metastatic cancers. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5348.
Antireflux surgery for patients with end-stage lung disease before and after lung transplantation

Background Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is prevalent among patients with end-stage lung disease (ESLD). This disease can lead to microaspiration and may be a risk factor for lung damage before and after transplantation. A fundoplication is the best way to stop reflux, but little is known about the safety of elective antireflux surgery for patients with ESLD. This study aimed to report the safety of laparoscopic fundoplication for patients with ESLD and GERD before or after lung transplantation.
CSR: Convex Subspace Routing protocol for wireless sensor networks

Virtual Coordinate based Routing (VCR) is a class of simple scalable routing schemes for sensor networks. VCR relies on coordinates based on the number of hops to a set of anchors, rather than on geographical coordinates. Multiple nodes with identical coordinates and local minima encountered during routing degrade the performance of VCR. Properties of virtual coordinate systems are analyzed to provide insight into the nature of virtual coordinate space, and bounds are derived for path lengths. A new routing scheme, Convex Subspace Routing (CSR), is proposed. In contrast to existing VCR schemes that use backtracking or hill climbing techniques to overcome local minima, CSR avoids using anchors that cause local minima. CSR selects subsets of anchors dynamically to provide a convex distance function from source to destination. Consequently, it is less sensitive to anchor placement and over anchoring, and does not require tracking of route history for backtracking. Performance of CSR is evaluated for different network configurations. Results for varying node densities and different numbers of anchors indicate that CSR significantly outperforms Logical Coordinate Routing (LCR), in terms of routability, number of hops used for routing, memory usage as well as energy consumption.
The impact of early trauma and abuse on residential substance abuse treatment outcomes for women

Abstract This study examines the impact of early abuse on the functioning and the 12-month treatment outcomes of 146 homeless addicted women who entered residential substance abuse treatment. Sixty-nine percent of the women reported exposure to childhood physical, sexual, or emotional abuse; the majority reported multiple forms of abuse. Comparisons of abused and nonabused women revealed significant differences in childhood, adolescent, and adult functioning, indicative of the pervasive detrimental effects of early abuse. Female survivors of childhood abuse did not improve in treatment as much as their nonabused peers in psychological functioning ( p p p
Engineering catalytic contacts and thermal stability: gold/iron oxide binary nanocrystal superlattices for CO oxidation.

Well-defined surface, such as surface of a single crystal, is being used to provide precise interpretation of catalytic processes, while the nanoparticulate model catalyst more closely represents the real catalysts that are used in industrial processes. Nanocrystal superlattice, which combines the chemical and physical properties of different materials in a single crystalline structure, is an ideal model catalyst, that bridge between conventional models and real catalysts. We identify the active sites for carbon monoxide (CO) oxidation on Au-FeOx catalysts by using Au-FeOx binary superlattices correlating the activity to the number density of catalytic contacts between Au and FeOx. Moreover, using nanocrystal superlattices, we propose a general strategy of keeping active metals spatially confined to enhance the stability of metal catalysts. With a great range of nanocrystal superlattice structures and compositions, we establish that nanocrystal superlattices are useful model materials through which to exp...
Infectious Complications and Outcomes in Children Supported with Left Ventricular Assist Devices

Background Infectious complications constitute a major cause of morbidity and death in adult patients supported with left ventricular assist devices (VADs). The incidence and patient outcomes related to infectious complications in pediatric patients on VAD support remain largely unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of infection among pediatric VAD recipients and to characterize the microbiology, associated risk factors, and clinical outcome. Methods We conducted a retrospective record review of all patients undergoing VAD support for ≥2 weeks at Texas Children's Hospital from June 1999 to December 2011. Infections were categorized as VAD-specific, VAD-related, or non–VAD-related using the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) definitions for VAD infections. Results Fifty-two VADs were implanted in 51 patients; of these, 35 patients (69%) had 92 infections while receiving VAD support. These included 10 VAD-specific infections, 23 VAD-related infections, and 59 non-VAD infections. The overall rate of VAD infections (specific + related) was 8/1,000 days of VAD support. The most common pathogens were Staphylococcus aureus , coagulase-negative staphylococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida spp. Of 8 deaths that occurred during VAD support, 3 (37.5%) were directly related to infections. Continuous-flow VAD ( p = 0.0427) and prior cardiac transplantation with rejection ( p = 0.0191) were significantly associated with development of VAD infections. Conclusions Infectious complications are common in pediatric patients undergoing VAD support. VAD infections do not prevent successful cardiac transplantation in children.
Functional brain imaging and human brain function.

It has been nearly 30 years since the introduction of x-ray computed tomography (CT) set in motion a revolution in medical imaging that changed forever the practice of medicine. The introduction of CT also proved to be an immediate and powerful catalyst for the development of other imaging
Hand Function in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic, inflammatory, debilitating disease that can lead to significant hand deformities and pain which can affect hand function and performance of daily activities. This chapter reviews the structural changes and deformities that occur in the hand in persons with rheumatoid arthritis and the resulting impairments and functional disability. Assessments of hand impairments including observation and measurements of joint motion, joint stability, pain, grip, and pinch strength are discussed. Finally both self-reports and performance-based tests of hand function are presented such as the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire; Duruoz Hand Index; Grip Ability Test; the Sequential Occupational Therapy Assessment; the Arthritis Hand Function Test; and the Jebsen Test of Hand Function. The psychometric properties of these tests and advantages and disadvantages of self-reports and performance-based tests are also presented. Assessment of hand function is imperative to preserve function in the hand and prevent disability.
Edge Stresses in Alumina/Zirconia Laminates

Using the technique of fluorescence piezospectroscopy, we determine the distribution of thermal residual stresses across the edges of three laminated alumina/zirconia composites. We develop a methodology for separating the measured stress state into microstresses that result from grain-to-grain thermal mismatch and macrostresses that result from lamination-induced thermal mismatch between individual plies. Comparison between the measured edge-stress distributions and those calculated based on a simple force-superposition model shows good agreement, indicating that the laminate system is well approximated as linear elastic. Given the experimental confirmation of significant edge stresses in multi-ply laminates, the possibility of failure initiating at composite edges must be considered in the design of surface-compressed laminate structures with the aim of mediating the detrimental effect of surface flaws.
Final State Interaction in Kaon Production

>The final state approach is applied to the reaction pi - + P → K + Y + pi . The pi -Y and K-Y interactions are neglected and only the K- pi interaction is considered in the final state. The matrix elements for the primary interaction are determined by the use of Fermi's statistical model. The secondary interaction is handled by the use of effective range formulae, where the parameters are fitted to the experimental full width at half maximum of 23 Mev and an effective mass of 878 Mev for an I = 1/2 resonance. Both an S-wave and P-wave resonance are considered. The results indicate a κ 0 π+ Σ-/ κ + π0 Σ-- ratio of 1.7 with a small amount of K0 pi - Σ + reaction for both the S- and P-wave cases. This result is in agreement with experimental results. The calculations also indicate a κ + π0 Σ-/ κ 0 π0 Σ0 ratio of 107 for an S-wave resonance and a ratio of 0.7 for a P-wave resonance. Unfortunately, the reaction κ 0π0 Σ0is difficult to determine experimentally and no experimental results have been obtained on them as yet.
On filtering in delay systems with continuous dynamics and discrete‐time observations

Filter equations for linear delay systems with continuous-time dynamics and discrete-time measurements are derived by separating the estimation problem into prediction between measurements and updating at a measurement. The result is the analog of the well-known Kalman filter for the nondelay case. A computational technique for implementing the filter is indicated and illustrated by an example of a scalar system with a delay in the dynamics as well as measurement.
Unsupervised hyperspectral target analysis

One of the most challenging issues in unsupervised target analysis is how to obtain unknown target knowledge directly from the data to be processed. This issue has never arisen in supervised target analysis where the target knowledge is either assumed to be known or provided by a priori. However, with recent advent of sensor technology many unknown and subtle signal sources can be uncovered and revealed by high spectral imaging spectrometers such as hyperspectral imaging sensors. The knowledge of these signal sources generally cannot be obtained by assumed or prior knowledge. Under this circumstance supervised target analysis may not be realistic or applicable. This paper addresses the issue of how to generate such knowledge for data analysis and further develops unsupervised target finding algorithms for target analysis. In order to demonstrate the utility of the developed unsupervised target finding algorithms, experiments are conducted for applications in unsupervised linear spectral unmixing.
Analyses of SUM1-1-Mediated Long-Range Repression

In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, local repression is promoter specific and localized to a small region on the DNA, while silencing is promoter nonspecific, encompasses large domains of chromatin, and is stably inherited for multiple generations. Sum1p is a local repressor protein that mediates repression of meiosis-specific genes in mitotic cells while the Sir proteins are long-range repressors that stably silence genes at HML, HMR, and telomeres. The SUM1-1 mutation is a dominant neomorphic mutation that enables the mutant protein to be recruited to the HMR locus and repress genes, even in the absence of the Sir proteins. In this study we show that the mutation in Sum1-1p enabled it to spread, and the native HMR barrier blocked it from spreading. Thus, like the Sir proteins, Sum1-1p was a long-range repressor, but unlike the Sir proteins, Sum1-1p-mediated repression was more promoter specific, repressing certain genes better than others. Furthermore, repression mediated by Sum1-1p was not stably maintained or inherited and we therefore propose that Sum1-1p-mediated long-range repression is related but distinct from silencing.
Nucleotide sequence and transcriptional activity of the caprine arthritis-encephalitis virus long terminal repeat

Caprine arthritis-encephalitis virus (CAEV) and visna virus are pathogenic lentiviruses of goats and sheep which share morphologic features and sequence homology with human T-cell lymphotropic virus type III (HTLV-III), the etiologic agent of the acquired immune deficiency syndrome. The nucleotide sequence of the CAEV long terminal repeat (LTR) was determined, and it was found to be 450 base pairs long, with U3, R, and U5 regions of 287, 85, and 78 base pairs, respectively. Portions of the CAEV LTR are closely homologous to analogous regions of visna virus. The CAEV LTR is not significantly homologous with the HTLV-III LTR; however, like HTLV-III, visna virus, and equine infectious anemia virus, CAEV uses tRNA lysine as a primer for reverse transcription. The transcriptional activity of the CAEV and visna virus LTRs was measured by a chloramphenicol acetyltransferase assay, and the activity of the visna virus LTR was generally higher in a variety of uninfected cell types. Infection of cells with visna virus markedly increased gene expression directed by either the CAEV or visna virus LTR, but in contrast, infection of cells with CAEV had little effect on the activity of either LTR. The lack of trans-activation by CAEV, a virus which causes debilitating arthritis and encephalitis in goats, suggests that trans-activation may not be a general property of pathogenic lentiviruses.
Recent Excavation and Exploration in Palestine

Since the appearance of Professor David G. Lyon's article entitled “Recent Excavations in Palestine,” which was published in the January number of The Harvard Theological Review, 1908, other ancient Biblical sites have been explored and many noteworthy discoveries have been made. And now that the work of excavation and exploration has been indefinitely arrested by the outbreak of war, it seems especially fitting that what has been accomplished during the past six or seven years should be collected and summarized.
Can ethics provide answers

No great powers of observation are needed to see that the American people are not as optimistic or confident as they once were. Even as the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandals recede into memory, other concerns take their place. The energy crisis and a growing rate of inflation are the visible signs of an uncertain economy—an economy which, in addition to creating a general sense of insecurity makes it harder than ever to satisfy demands for social justice. Technology, which was supposed to save us, now presents as many problems as solutions—witness the controversy over nuclear energy, for example. Pessimism seems not only understandable, but rational.
Reducing radiation dose to the female breast during CT coronary angiography: a simulation study comparing breast shielding, angular tube current modulation, reduced kV, and partial angle protocols using an unknown-location signal-detectability metric.

AFE. Results: For the 4-mm signal-size task, the 80 kV full scan and 80 kV partial angle protocols decreased dose to the breast (80.5% and 85.3%, respectively) and lung (80.5% and 76.7%, respectively) with ˆ AFE = 0.96, but also resulted in an approximate three-fold increase in image noise. The 120 kV partial protocol reduced dose to the breast (17.6%) at the expense of increased lung dose (25.3%). The TCM algorithm decreased dose to the breast (6.0%) and lung (10.4%). Breast shielding increased breast dose (67.8%) and lung dose (103.4%). The 80 kV and 80 kV partial protocols demonstrated greater dose reductions for the 4-mm task than for the 1-mm task, and the shielded protocol showed a larger increase in dose for the 4-mm task than for the 1-mm task. In general, the CNR curves indicate a similar relative ranking of protocol performance as the corresponding ˆ AFE curves, however, the CNR metric overestimated the performance of the shielded protocol for both tasks, leading to corresponding underestimates in the relative dose increases compared to those obtained when using the ˆ AFE metric. Conclusions: The 80 kV and 80 kV partial angle protocols demonstrated the greatest reduction to breast and lung dose, however, the subsequent increase in image noise may be deemed clinically unacceptable. Tube output for these protocols can be adjusted to achieve a more desirable noise level with lesser breast dose savings. Breast shielding increased breast and lung dose when maintaining equivalent ˆ AFE. The results demonstrated that comparisons of dose performance depend on both the image quality metric and the specific task, and that CNR may not be a reliable metric of signal detectability. © 2013 American Association of Physicists in Medicine .[ http://dx.doi.org/10.1118/1.4816302]
Exercise Capacity and All-Cause Mortality in Male Veterans With Hypertension Aged ≥70 Years

Aging, even in otherwise healthy subjects, is associated with declines in muscle mass, strength, and aerobic capacity. Older individuals respond favorably to exercise, suggesting that physical inactivity plays an important role in age-related functional decline. Conversely, physical activity and improved exercise capacity are associated with lower mortality risk in hypertensive individuals. However, the effect of exercise capacity in older hypertensive individuals has not been investigated extensively. A total of 2153 men with hypertension, aged ≥70 years (mean, 75 ± 4) from the Washington, DC, and Palo Alto Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, underwent routine exercise tolerance testing. Peak workload was estimated in metabolic equivalents (METs). Fitness categories were established based on peak METs achieved, adjusted for age: very-low-fit, 2.0 to 4.0 METs (n=386); low-fit, 4.1 to 6.0 METs (n=1058); moderate-fit, 6.1 to 8.0 METs (n=495); high-fit >8.0 METs (n=214). Cox proportional hazard models were applied after adjusting for age, body mass index, race, cardiovascular disease, cardiovascular medications, and risk factors. All-cause mortality was quantified during a mean follow-up period of 9.0 ± 5.5 years. There were a total of 1039 deaths or 51.2 deaths per 1000 person-years of follow-up. Mortality risk was 11% lower (hazard ratio, 0.89; 95% confidence interval, 0.86-0.93; P<0.001) for every 1-MET increase in exercise capacity. When compared with those achieving ≤4.0 METs, mortality risk was 18% lower (hazard ratio, 0.82; 95% confidence interval, 0.70-0.95; P=0.011) for the low-fit, 36% for the moderate-fit (hazard ratio, 0.64; 95% confidence interval, 0.52-0.78; P<0.001), and 48% for the high-fit individuals (hazard ratio, 0.52; 95% confidence interval, 0.39-0.69; P<0.001). These findings suggest that exercise capacity is associated with lower mortality risk in elderly men with hypertension.