cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Associations Between Maternal Lifetime Stress and Placental Mitochondrial DNA Mutations in an Urban Multiethnic Cohort.

Abstract Background Disrupted placental functioning due to stress can have lifelong implications. Cumulative stress and trauma are likely to have lasting impacts on maternal physiological functioning and offspring development, resulting in increased risk for later-life complex disorders for which racial disparities exist. Methods This study examined the association between maternal lifetime stress and placental mitochondrial DNA mutational load in an urban multiethnic cohort. Maternal lifetime exposure to stressful events was assessed using the validated Life Stressor Checklist–Revised. Whole mitochondrial DNA sequencing was performed and mutations were determined for 365 placenta samples with complete exposure and covariate data. Multivariable regression was used to model maternal lifetime stress in relation to placental mitochondrial DNA mutational load. Racial/ethnic differences were examined by cross-product terms and contrast statements. Gene-wise analyses were conducted. Results We identified 13,189 heteroplasmies (Phred score > 10,000, minor allele frequency 1). Women experiencing increased psychosocial stress over their lifetime exhibited a higher number of total placental mitochondrial mutations (β = .23, 95% confidence interval = .03 to .42) and heteroplasmic mutations (β = .18, 95% confidence interval = .05 to .31) but not homoplasmic mutations (β = −.008, 95% confidence interval = −.03 to .01); the strongest associations were observed among Black women and genes coding for NADH dehydrogenase and cytochrome c oxidase subunits. Conclusions Cumulative maternal lifetime stress is associated with a greater mitochondrial mutational load, particularly among Black women. The impact of racial/ethnic differences in mutational load on placental function directly affecting offspring development and/or leading to chronic disease disparities warrants further investigation.
Photobleaching Reduction in Modulated Super Resolution Microscopy

Important breakthroughs in far-field imaging techniques have been made since the first demonstrations of stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy. To date, the most straightforward and widespread deployment of STED microscopy has used continuous wave (CW) laser beams for both the excitation and depletion of fluorescence emission. A major drawback of the CW STED imaging technique has been photobleaching effects due to the high optical power needed in the depletion beam to reach sub-diffraction resolution. To overcome this hurdle, we have applied a synchronous detection approach based on modulating the excitation laser beam, while keeping the depletion beam at CW operation, and frequency filtering the collected signal with a lock-in amplifier to record solely the super-resolved fluorescence emission. We demonstrate here that such approach allows an important reduction in the optical power of both laser beams that leads to measurable decreases in photobleaching effects in STED microscopy. We report super-resolution images with relatively low powers for both the excitation and depletion beams. In addition, typical unwanted scattering effects and background signal generated from the depletion beam, which invariably arises from mismatches in refractive index in the material composing the sample, are largely reduced by using the modulated STED approach. The capability of acquiring super-resolution images with relatively low power is quite relevant for studying a variety of samples, but particularly important for biological species as exemplified in this work.
Beam Deflection using Non-Planar Broadside Coupled Split Ring Resonators

This paper introduces beam deflection capabilities of a microstrip patch antenna using a nonplanar broadside coupled split-ring resonator (BCSRR). The two rings of BCSRR are printed on both sides of the FR4 substrate and are placed precisely on top of the antenna to obtain the desired results. Simulation analysis results are provided of the effects of variations of the structure. By using the coupling effects of the BCSRR, the changes in the bandwidth, gain, and radiation patterns are noted. A comparative analysis of the antenna with and without BCSRR placement has been carried out. The sensitivity of beam deflection to the BCSRR arrangement will be demonstrated in this paper.
Sparse Recovery Using the Discrete Cosine Transform

This note considers the problem of sparse recovery in $${\mathbb {R}}^{n}$$ from linear measurements associated with a discrete cosine transform. The main theorem shows that an s-sparse vector in $${\mathbb {R}}^{n}$$ can be recovered from the first 2s coefficients of its discrete cosine transform. This theorem is a real-valued analog of a result in Foucart and Rauhut (A mathematical introduction to compressive sensing, applied and numerical harmonic analysis, Birkhauser/Springer, New York, 2013) concerned with sparse recovery in $${\mathbb {C}}^{n}$$ based on linear measurements via the discrete Fourier transform.
Variability for oil, protein, lignan, tocopherol, and fatty acid concentrations in eight sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) genotypes

Abstract Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is an important oil seed with edible and potentially nutritional and medical uses in most countries and may show variability for bioactive concentrations. The objective of this study was to evaluate seed production weights, numbers, oil, protein, lignan, tocopherol, and fatty acid concentrations in seeds from 8 randomly diverse sesame genotypes with various seed coat colors over two years. Oil analysis were conducted using NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) on a Bruker mq-one minispec. Protein was measured by combustion on an Elementar Rapid N Exceed nitrogen analyzer. Lignan and tocopherol compounds were prepared and analyzed by HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography) on an Agilent 1100. Fatty acids were separated by gas chromatography on an Agilent 7890A with a 15 m DB23 analytical column and FID (flame ionization detector). The bioactives and 1000 seed weights were significantly influenced by genotype, except for heptadecenoic acid (17:1), while total seed weight, total seed numbers, sesamolin, γ-tocopherol, and oleic acid (18:1) were influenced by year. Oil, protein, δ-tocopherol, and margaric acid (17:0) showed a year x genotype interaction. Significant 1000 seed weights ranged from 1.8 to 3.3 g while oil and protein concentrations significantly ranged from 29.43–54.69% and 13.92–21.76%, respectively. Sesamin and sesamolin ranged significantly from 0.55 to 8.98 mg/g and tocopherols ranged from 0 to 239.58 μg/g. The major unsaturated fatty acids, oleic (18:1) and linoleic (18:2) acids significantly ranged from 26.60 to 54.85 % while the minor unsaturated fatty acids ranged from 0.13 to 0.89 %. The saturated fatty acids significantly ranged from 0 to 10.58 %. Several correlations were observed among the bioactives. The 8 sesame genotypes can be used in breeding programs to develop new cultivars with enhanced bioactives.
The ecological niche of reported rabies cases in Canada is similar to Alaska

The ecology of rabies in the circumpolar North is still not well understood. We use machine learning, a geographic information system and data explicit in time and space obtained for reported rabies cases and predictors in Canada to develop an ecological niche model for the distribution of reported rabies cases in the American north (Alaska and Canada). The ecological niche model based on reported rabies cases in Canada predicted reported rabies cases in Alaska, suggesting a rather robust inference and even similar drivers on a continental scale. As found in Alaska, proximity to human infrastructure-specifically along the coast-was a strong predictor in the detection of rabies cases in Canada. Also, this finding highlights the need for a more systematic landscape sampling for rabies infection model predictions to better understand and tackle the ecology of this important zoonotic disease on a landscape scale at some distance from human infrastructure in wilderness areas.
NRAS Q61R immunohistochemical staining in thyroid pathology: sensitivity, specificity and utility

Aims The diagnosis of thyroid neoplasms relies upon the demonstration of histological parameters that can be focal and prone to subjective interpretation. We evaluated the utility of NRAS Q61R immunohistochemistry (IHC) in the diagnosis of thyroid lesions after determining its specificity and sensitivity as a surrogate marker for RAS Q61R mutation. Method and results NRAS Q61R IHC was performed on 282 primary or metastatic thyroid lesions from 256 patients. RAS mutation status was collected from patients' charts. Sensitivity and specificity of NRAS Q61R IHC for detecting a RAS Q61R mutation was calculated. IHC-positive cases were reviewed to determine the diagnostic utility of NRAS Q61R IHC. NRAS Q61R immunopositivity was seen in non-neoplastic, benign and malignant thyroid lesions. NRAS Q61R antibody cross-reactivity led to the detection of NRAS Q61R, KRAS Q61R and HRAS Q61R proteins. Among primary thyroid carcinomas, immunopositivity was most frequent in papillary thyroid carcinomas, follicular variant (48.0%). The sensitivity and specificity of NRAS Q61R IHC in detecting RAS Q61R mutation was 90.6% and 92.3%, respectively. When positive, the NRAS Q61R stain was determined to be helpful in demonstrating infiltration, tumour size, capsular and/or vascular invasion and multifocality. Conclusion NRAS Q61R IHC is highly sensitive and specific for the detection of RAS Q61R mutations in thyroid pathology and is particularly relevant in follicular-patterned neoplasms. When evaluated alongside histological features, NRAS Q61R immunoreactivity can be instrumental in the diagnosis and classification of thyroid nodules.
MPN-127: Add-On Parsaclisib (a PI3K5 Inhibitor) in Patients with Myelofibrosis and Suboptimal Response to Ruxolitinib: Interim Analysis from a Phase 2 Study

Context: Ruxolitinib is highly effective in myelofibrosis (MF), improving symptoms, reducing spleen size, and prolonging survival. However, suboptimal response may occur, potentially due to persistent PI3K/AKT pathway activation despite continued JAK inhibition. Objective: This phase 2 study (NCT02718300) evaluated optimal dosing, efficacy, and safety of add-on parsaclisib (INCB050465), a potent and highly selective next-generation PI3Kδ inhibitor, in patients with MF with a suboptimal response to ruxolitinib. Design: Patients had primary or secondary MF, ECOG performance status ≤2, and suboptimal response after ≥6 months of ruxolitinib (5–25 mg twice daily; stable dose ≥8 weeks). Patients remained on their stable ruxolitinib dose and were randomized to receive add-on parsaclisib 10 or 20 mg once daily (QD) for 8 weeks and the same dose once weekly (QW) thereafter (QD/QW group) or parsaclisib 5 or 20 mg QD for 8 weeks and 5 mg QD thereafter (all QD group). The primary endpoint was change in spleen volume from baseline to week 12. Results: At data cutoff (Aug 27, 2020) for this interim analysis, 32 patients had received parsaclisib QD/QW and 35 received parsaclisib all QD. Median percentage change in spleen volume at week 12 was –1.9 (n=29) in QD/QW and –13.0 (n=27) in QD and at week 24 was –3.5 (n=23) and –21.8 (n=17), respectively. Median percentage change in Myelofibrosis-Symptoms Assessment Form Total Symptom Score at week 12 was –14.0 (n=21) in QD/QW and –37.4 (n=17) in QD. Nonhematologic treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were primarily grade 1/2. New-onset grade 3 and 4 thrombocytopenia were each observed in 6/32 (19%) patients in QD/QW and in 9/35 (26%) and 1/35 (3%) patients in QD, respectively. TEAEs of special interest included grade ≥2 diarrhea (n=4) and grade ≥2 rash (n=1) (all QD/QW). No colitis was reported. TEAEs led to parsaclisib discontinuation in 7/32 patients in QD/QW and 3/35 patients in QD and ruxolitinib discontinuation in 2/32 and 1/35 patients, respectively. Conclusions: Add-on parsaclisib showed preliminary efficacy in patients with MF experiencing suboptimal response to ruxolitinib; QD dosing appeared more efficacious than QD/QW dosing. Combination therapy was generally well tolerated with limited grade 3/4 AEs and TEAE-related discontinuations.
Linear Tense Logics

The minimal or basic system of tense logic is K t , so named by E. J. Lemmon.1 Since all of the other tense logics we discuss are extensions of K t , we shall treat it in rather more detail than will henceforth be customary.
Labial reduction guide for laminate veneer preparation

This article describes a method of fabricating a labial reduction guide for laminate veneer preparations by using a digital tire tread depth gauge and orthodontic wire. The labial reduction guide can help clinicians to achieve accurate reduction of the labial surface.
Intra-operative Multimodal Non-rigid Registration of the Liver for Navigated Tumor Ablation

CT guided tumor ablation of the liver often suffers from a lack of visualization of the target tumor and surrounding critical structures. This information is available on pre-operative contrast enhanced MR images and a non-rigid registration technique is desirable. However while registration methods have been successfully tested retrospectively on patient data, very few have been incorporated into clinical procedures. A non-rigid registration technique has been evaluated, optimized and validated to be able to perform registration of the liver between MR to CT images, and between intra-operative CT images. The method requires pre-processing and segmentation of the liver, and presents an accuracy of approximately 2mm. A clinical feasibility study has been conducted in 5 liver ablation cases. The method helps clinicians enhance interventional planning, confirm ablation probe location with respect to the tumor, and in the case of cryotherapy, evaluate tumor coverage by the ice ball.
Device therapy: Where next in cardiogenic shock owing to myocardial infarction?

Intra-aortic balloon pumping has recently been shown to be ineffective in treating cardiogenic shock due to myocardial infarction. Other, more potent percutaneous pumps have been developed, and their use is growing substantially, but they have not been studied in randomized trials. Two new reports provide provocative information about these devices.
The integration of religion and spirituality in group therapy: Practitioners' perceptions and practices

The current study examined practitioners’ perceptions and practices regarding the integration of religion and spirituality in group therapy. Results indicate that therapists’ degree of spirituality positively predicts their perceived appropriateness of religious and spiritual interventions. This perceived appropriateness, as well as therapists’ spirituality and religious commitment, influenced practitioners’ use of the same religious and spiritual interventions. Therapists in the study reported low levels of perceived barriers to addressing spirituality in group therapy, yet largely did not practice religious or spiritual integration. In addition, participants viewed spirituality and religion to be different constructs. Participants reported spiritual interventions to be more appropriate than religious interventions and reported more frequent use of spiritual interventions than they did use of religious interventions. Finally, practitioners in this study reported more openness to addressing spirituality in group therapy than they did openness to addressing religion in group therapy.
Obsessive–Compulsive Personality Disorder

Keywords: individual differences; mental health; psychopathology; personality disorders; personality traits
MIT--EEI superconducting synchronous machine

In December 1968 the Edison Electric Institute authorized support of a research project on superconductors in large synchronous machines.* The purposes of the program are to demonstrate the practicality of utilizing superconductors for the field windings in large synchronous machines and to motivate equipment manufacturers to develop this concept for large power generators of the future.
New global insight in ultra-thin oxide reliability using accurate experimental methodology and theoretical modeling

We critically examine several important aspects concerning ultra-thin oxide reliability. Time- or charge-to-breakdown (T/sub BD//Q/sub BD/) measurements with high statistical accuracy are carried out over a wide range of oxide thickness (T/sub ox/), voltages, temperatures, and test structures. Thickness dependence of Weibull slopes and its physical interpretation based on a simple analytic model are reviewed. We also investigate the voltage-dependent voltage acceleration using two independent experimental methods of long-term module stress and area scaling techniques. In the context of voltage-dependent voltage acceleration, we resolve various seemingly contradicting and confusing observations such as the strong temperature dependence of oxide breakdown observed on ultra-thin oxides, temperature-independent voltage acceleration at a fixed T/sub BD/, and non-Arrhenius temperature dependence found on ultra-thin oxides. Using a newly developed kinetic approach for oxide breakdown, we propose a two-step hydrogen model as an alternative to explain the experimental observations on voltage-dependent voltage acceleration and temperature dependence of oxide breakdown.
Navigating recent articles on girls' puberty: where should our patients go for evaluation?

To the Editor .— This letter is written in response to the Herman-Giddens et al commentary “Navigating the Recent Articles on Girls' Puberty in Pediatrics : What Do We Know and Where Do We Go From Here?”1 We disagree with the authors on several key points. These authors state that we have made the “erroneous assumption that a girl needs to have both breasts and pubic hair to be considered as having true precocious puberty.”1(p914) Pubic hair development and breast development accompanied by a growth spurt has long been the conventional definition of true precocious puberty.2 We maintain that this traditional definition is clinically very helpful, because the development of all 3 before the age of 8 years should be viewed with …
Modeling, analysis and control of cascaded-multilevel converter-based STATCOM

Modeling techniques for cascaded-multilevel converter-based STATCOM in abc and dqo coordinates are proposed. The simplified models for a balanced three-phase three-wire system in dqo are used in feedback controller design for cascaded seven-level converter-based STATCOM system. The development and analysis of the models are presented. Feedback control schemes are proposed to achieve a fast dynamic response as well as DC capacitor voltage balance. Computer simulation is performed to verify the accuracy of the models and performance of the controller. The simulation results show the consistency of the proposed models. In addition, the fast step responses in the order of subline cycle can be achieved.
The Spaceguard Survey - Protecting the earth from cosmic impacts

The conclusions of the NASA International Near-Earth-Object Detection Workshop (May 1991-January 1992) are summarized. Near-earth asteroids and short-period comets constitute about 90 percent of potential earth-impacting projectiles. The greatest risk is from those with diameters greater than 1 km. The objective of a near-earth object survey is to find such objects, calculate their long-term orbital trajectories, and identify any that may impact the earth over the next several centuries. There will generally be a period of at least several decades to take corrective action if any potential earth-impactors are found. A region of space extending outward from the earth to approximately the inner edge of the main asteroid belt must be monitored. Detection can be by reflected sunlight or infrared. Though faint, the objects should be readily detectable with ground-based telescopes, and thus there is no need for a more expensive space-based system.
Population pharmacokinetics of valganciclovir prophylaxis in paediatric and adult solid organ transplant recipients

Aim Our aims were to quantify ganciclovir pharmacokinetics in paediatric and adult kidney, liver and lung transplant patients taking a range of valganciclovir doses to prevent herpes virus infections, including a 450 mg regimen, and to identify sources of pharmacokinetic variability. Method Plasma samples were collected at 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks post-transplant and at 4, 6, 8 and 12 months post-transplant in subjects prescribed longer courses. Ganciclovir was measured by liquid chromatography/ultraviolet detection. Non-linear mixed effects modelling was used to analyze the concentration–time data and evaluate demographic and transplant-related covariates. Results A two compartment model with first order absorption best described the data. Given the range of body sizes, clearance and volume of distribution terms were scaled using standard weight-based allometric exponents. Creatinine clearance was included on apparent oral clearance. Final estimates in a standard 70 kg individual for apparent oral clearance, central volume of distribution, intercompartmental clearance and peripheral volume of distribution were 14.5 l h−1, 87.5 l, 4.80 l h−1 and 42.6 l, respectively. The median terminal half-life for kidney, liver and lung transplant recipients was 9.4, 9.5 and 8.2 h, respectively. Median exposure (i.e. AUC(0,∞) in subjects taking valganciclovir 900 mg or 450 mg once daily was 57.4 and 34.3 μg ml−1 h, respectively. Conclusion Allometric scaling allowed simultaneous analysis of data from children and adults. Ganciclovir pharmacokinetics were similar among kidney, liver and lung transplant recipients. Ganciclovir exposure after valganciclovir 450 mg once daily may be suboptimal in some individuals and requires evaluation along with virologic outcomes data.
Pulmonary hyperreactivity in cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fasicularis) from nose-only inhalation exposure to disodium hexachloroplatinate, Na2PtCl6

The pulmonary and dermal effects of exposure to Na2PtCl6 were investigated in cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) exposed by the nose-only inhalation and percutaneous routes. Separate inhalation exposures were performed in monkeys at 200 micrograms/m3 and 2 mg/m3 (4 hr/day, biweekly for 12 weeks), while another group of monkeys was percutaneously exposed biweekly by an open patch method. After a 2-week refractory period, serial Na2PtCl6 bronchoprovocation challenges and intradermal Na2PtCl6 sensitivity evaluations were performed. Na2PtCl6 bronchoprovocation in naive control monkeys yielded significant impairments in post-challenge pulmonary mechanics and ventilatory function. These results indicate a pharmacologic or irritant-mediated bronchoconstriction mechanism for acute exposure to this compound. When the post-challenge pulmonary function of animals exposed for the 12-week exposure regimen (across treatments) was compared to pulmonary deficits observed in control animals upon challenge, significantly greater pulmonary deficits were seen in animals exposed at the 200 micrograms/m3 concentration. Exposure at this concentration yielded significant changes in post-challenge average pulmonary flow resistance (RL) and forced expiratory volume in 0.5 sec corrected for vital capacity (FEV0.5/FVC) when compared to control monkey responses. Animals exposed by the percutaneous route or at 2 mg/m3 showed no significant post-challenge pulmonary deficits when compared to control animals. Intradermal Na2PtCl6 sensitivity was found not to be exposure related in the conditions of this experiment.
Description of Thermogemmatispora carboxidivorans sp. nov., a carbon-monoxide-oxidizing member of the class Ktedonobacteria isolated from a geothermally heated biofilm, and analysis of carbon monoxide oxidation by members of the class Ktedonobacteria.

A thermophilic, aerobic, Gram-stain-positive bacterium (strain PM5T), which formed mycelia of irregularly branched filaments and produced multiple exospores per cell, was isolated from a geothermally heated biofilm. Strain PM5T grew at 40–65 °C and pH 4.1–8.0, with optimal growth at 55 °C and pH 6.0. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain PM5T belonged to the class Ktedonobacteria , and was related most closely to Thermogemmatispora onikobensis ONI-1T (97.7 % similarity) and Thermogemmatispora foliorum ONI-5T (96.1 %). Morphological features and fatty acid profiles (major fatty acids: iso-C17 : 0, iso-C19 : 0 and 12,17-dimethyl C18 : 0) supported the affiliation of strain PM5T to the genus Thermogemmatispora . Strain PM5T oxidized carbon monoxide [CO; 10±1 nmol h−1 (mg protein)−1], but did not grow with CO as a sole carbon and energy source. Results from analyses of related strains indicated that the capacity for CO uptake occurred commonly among the members of the class Ktedonobacteria ; 13 of 14 strains tested consumed CO or harboured coxL genes that potentially enabled CO oxidation. The results of DNA–DNA hybridization and physiological and biochemical tests allowed the genotypic and phenotypic differentiation of strain PM5T from the two recognized species of the genus Thermogemmatispora . Strain PM5T differed from Thermogemmatispora onikobensis ONI-1T in its production of orange pigment, lower temperature optimum, hydrolysis of casein and starch, inability to grow with mannitol, xylose or rhamnose as sole carbon sources, and utilization of organic acids and amino acids. Strain PM5T is therefore considered to represent a novel species, for which the name Thermogemmatispora carboxidivorans sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is PM5T ( = DSM 45816T = ATCC BAA-2534T).
VOLATILE COMPONENTS IN DEFENSIVE SPRAY OF THE SPOTTED SKUNK, Spilogale putorius

GC-MS analysis of the anal sac secretion from the spotted skunk,Spilogale putorius, showed three major volatile components: (E)-2-butene-1-thiol, 3-methyl-1-butanethiol, and 2-phenylethanethiol. Minor volatile components identified from this secretion were: phenylmethanethiol, 2-methylquinoline, 2-quinolinemethanethiol, bis[(E)-2-butenyl] disulfide, (E)-2-butenyl 3-methylbufyl disulfide, bis(3-methylbutyl) disulfide. All of these compounds except 2-phenylethanethioi have been identified previously from the striped skunk,Mephitis mephitis. The thioacetate derivativesS- (E)-2-butenyl thioacetate,S-3-methylbutanyl thioacetate, andS-2-quinolinemethyl thioacetate found in the striped skunk were not seen in this species.
Pretransplant QTc interval duration predicts outcome of heart failure patients undergoing cardiac transplantation

Background: We investigated the value of QTc interval in predicting outcomes of heart failure patients undergoing cardiac transplantation (HTx). Methods: Of 587 patients who underwent HTx between 1990 and 1999, we studied 531 who showed no evidence of arrythmias or pacemaker rhythms on a standard ECG within 2 weeks of undergoing HTx. QTc interval duration was determined by averaging 3 consecutive beats in all 12 leads and correced with the Bazett formula. QTc interval prolongation was defined as a QTc interval 460 ms. Patients were monitored for 1 year after HTx. Results: QTc interval was prolonged ( 460 ms) in 245 patients (46%) and normal in 286 (54%). The two groups did not differ in age (51 11 years in the prolonged QTc group vs. 49 11 years in the normal QTc group, P 0.10), gender (84% male vs. 83%, P 0.69), ischemic etiology (51% vs. 43%, P 0.08), EF (16.5 10.4% vs. 17.1 10.1%, P 0.43), or cardiac index (2.09 0.67 L/min/m vs. 2.13 0.67 L/min/m, P 0.46). One year after HTx, 59 of 245 patients (24%) with a prolonged QTc died; compared to 44 of 286 patients (15%) with a normal QTc (P 0.012). When compared with the normal group at 1-year follow-up, the prolonged QTc group had lower freedom-from-rejection rate (44% vs. 60%, P 0.001) but comparable rates of freedom from infection (61% vs. 66%, P 0.20) and transplant vasculopathy (7% vs. 6%, P 0.64). QTc interval 460 ms was an independent predictor of 1-year postoperative mortality on multivariate analysis (P 0.039). The highest mortality rates were found in patients with QTc prolongation 510 ms: 24 of 55 patients from this group (44%) died within the first postoperative year. Conclusions: Prolonged QTc interval is related to worse post-HTx outcomes and more frequent transplant rejection. Therefore, pre-HTx QTc interval measurement may allow more appropriate timing of HTx and selection of HTx recipients. In patients with significant QTc interval prolongation, assist device bridge-to-transplant rather than primary HTx should be considered.
Does substance P participate in water transport and excretion

Substance P is located in wide distribution in the central nervous system and synthesized, stored and released like other classical neurotransmitters. There is theoretical and experimental evidence that substance P may regulate water excretion by at least two different mechanisms. The peptide may control water metabolism by renal and central nervous system actions.
Multi-Color Quantum Well Infrared Photodetectors for Mid-, Long-, and Very Long- Wavelength Infrared Applications (invited)

Quantum well infrared photodetectors (QWIPs) have been widely investigated for the 3–5 μm mid-wavelength infrared (MWIR) and 8–12 μm long-wavelength infrared (LWIR) atmospheric spectral windows as well as very long wavelength infrared (VLWIR: λ c 14 μm) detection in the past decade. The mature III-V compound semiconductor growth technology and the design flexibility of device structures have led to the rapid development of various QWIP structures for infrared focal plane arrays (FPAs) applications. In addition to the single-color QWIP with narrow bandwidth, the multi-color QWIP required for advanced IR sensing and imaging applications have also been emerged in recent years. Using band gap engineering approach, the multi-color (2, 3, and 4- color) QWIPs using multi-stack quantum wells with different well width and depth and voltage-tunable triple- coupled quantum well (TCQW) structure for detection in the MWIR, LWIR, and VLWIR bands have been demonstrated. In this paper, the design, fabrication, and characterization of a voltage-tunable 2-stack 3-color QWIP for MW/LW/LW IR detection and a 3-stack 3-color QWIP for detection in the water, ozone, and CO 2 atmospheric blocking bands are depicted.
Preference Voting and Intraparty Competition in Italy: Some New Evidence on the Communist-Christian Democrat Stalemate

Italy's Christian Democratic party has an unenviable record of association with corrupt and inefficient government. On the other hand its hold on Italian voters is tenacious. The literature of political science is strewn with unfulfilled predictions of the DC's demise. One potential clue to an explanation of the DC's persistent level of pluralities may lie in the party electorate's use of preference voting for favored individual candidates and the relative lack of turnover in candidates. After examination of ballots from 1948 through 1979 it appears that DC voters, in comparison with the rival Communist party's voters, use preference voting more; DC candidates are more competitive with one another. This suggests the hypothesis that the DC may derive nationwide benefits from a kind of local party primary and from incumbency effects the PCI is unwilling to employ. DC voters may be more concerned about local personalities that about the national record of the party.
Numerical Modeling of the Dynamics and Microphysics of Warm Cumulus Convection

Abstract Two cumulus cloud models in two space dimensions are presented; one is a bulk physical model without microphysics and the other includes the microphysical processes such as nucleation, diffusional growth of cloud droplets, stochastic coalescence, and fallout of raindrops. Some numerical aspects of the models are discussed; in particular, a method is described which allows long time steps to be used for the calculation of condensation in regions of relatively old droplet populations. The bulk-physical and microphysical models are compared for a non-precipitation case. The numerical results revealed that the inclusion of microphysics had little effect on the whole cloud dynamics, a result which considerably differs from that of Arnason and Greenfield. The microphysical model produced hi-modal spectra of droplets through the interaction of a mid-level nucleation region, which corresponds to the base of an upper intense thermal, and the vertical advection and diffusion of existing droplets from a low...
T-lymphocyte heterogeneity in the rat: Separation of distinct rat T-lymphocyte populations which respond in syngeneic and allogeneic mixed lymphocyte reactions

Abstract These experiments were designed to determine if separate subpopulations of T cells were involved in the syngeneic and allogeneic mixed lymphocyte reaction. Rat lymph node T cells were separated into W3/25 + and W3/25 − subpopulations by panning with the monoclonal antibody W3/25 and tested for their ability to proliferate in both syngeneic (SMLR) and allogeneic (MLR) mixed lymphocyte responses, as well as to develop cytotoxicity against allogeneic, syngeneic, and trinitrophenol (TNP)-modified syngeneic targets. The W3/25 + T cells reacted strongly in the SMLR and the MLR whereas the W3/25 − fraction proliferated only in response to allogeneic stimulation and with a kinetic pattern distinct from W3/25 + . Furthermore, addition of W3/25 monoclonal antibody directly to the cultures was shown only to inhibit the proliferation of the W3/25 + T-cell fraction. The W3/25 − subpopulation contained cytotoxic T cells (CTLs) against both allogeneic determinants and TNP-modified self. However the requirements for the activation of allospecific CTLs were distinct from those for CTLs for TNP-self in that W3/25 − allospecific CTLs required no detectable help from W3/25 + T cells but generation of the CTL response against TNP-self required the presence of W3/25 + helper T cells (Th). These data suggest that in the rat, there exist subsets of T cells recognized by their cell surface phenotype that distinguish between self and nonself determinants and the requirements for activation are different for each of these populations.
Blirtatiousness: cognitive, behavioral, and physiological consequences of rapid responding.

The Brief Loquaciousness and Interpersonal Responsiveness Test (BLIRT) measures the extent to which people respond to others quickly and effusively. The BLIRT displays desirable psychometric properties and distinguishes people who should theoretically score high (e.g., car salespersons) from those who should score low (e.g., librarians). Scores on the scale predict (a) the amount and rapidity of people's verbal responses in an unstructured interaction, (b) how likable and competent people's classmates perceive them to be early in the semester, (c) how quickly people respond to an obnoxious cell-phone user and how physiologically aroused they become, and (d) how quickly and emphatically people respond to a series of personal insults as well as their degree of physiological arousal. Converging evidence indicates that blirtatiousness is unique in its ability to amplify people's qualities, making these qualities more readily observable to perceivers.
Rapid characterization of protein molecular weights and hydrodynamic structures by quasielastic laser-light scattering.

Two methods for the characterization of protein molecular weights from their diffusion coefficients are discussed. These measurements can be made quickly and reliably at low concentrations using quasielastic light-scattering techniques. First, an empirical calibration of the diffusion coefficient at infinite dilution of denatured random coils against molecular weight is reported. The second method combines the measurement of D0 with the intrinsic viscosity [η]. This D0–[η] relationship proves to be very insensitive to polymers structure or solvent type. The data indicate that the ratio of the hydrodynamic radius measured by viscosity to the hydrodynamic radius measured by diffusion is about 15% smaller than that predicted by theoretical models. The nature of the molecular-weight average obtained for polydisperse systems is defined for a Schulz distribution. These hydrodynamic methods have also been used to demonstrate the presence of chain branching in the glycoprotein ovomucoid. In addition, a method is proposed by which the effective segment length and an excluded volume parameter for random coils may be evaluated for diffusion measurements.
Androgen priming and cytotoxic chemotherapy in advanced prostatic cancer.

Hormone manipulation has been standard therapy for metastatic adenocarcinoma of the prostate for many years. Recently cytotoxic drugs have been studied, but their effectiveness has been limited, indicating the need for new therapeutic approaches. Based upon the hypothesis that cytotoxic drugs are most effective agaist actively proliferating cells, we have designed a clinical pilot study employing cyclical androgen priming to transiently stimulate tumor cells followed by cytotoxic chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide and methotrexate. There were nine responders (43%) out of 21 patients entered in the study, with a median duration of response that has not been reached at 9+ months. Survival was significantly better in responders than in non-responding patients. These results are similar to those of other studies in which chemotherapy was used alone. Chemotherapy toxicity with this schedule was mild. However, the androgen priming frequently resulted in increased bone pain, and there was one episode of spinal cord compression, suggesting that tumor stimulation was achieved. These results demonstrate the need for additional basic studies of the effects of testosterone on tumor cell kinetics before further clinical trials of this approach are initiated.
Glass-ceramics: deterministic microgrinding, lapping, and polishing

Glass-ceramics are composites consisting of glass and crystalline phases. We report a series of microgrinding and polishing experiments: our first goal is to correlate material mechanical properties with the quality of the resulting surface, determined by surface microroughness and surface grinding-induced residual stresses. Our second goal is to compare deterministic microgrinding and loose abrasive microgrinding in terms of material removal rates and resulting surface quality.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Probable adrenal insufficiency in an infant

Summary The patient reported here shows poor physical development, low grade respiratory infection, hyperpigmentation of the skin, and macrogenitosomia. His weight gain, maintenance of reasonable health, and probably life are dependent upon the addition of relatively large quantities of sodium chloride plus sodium bicarbonate or a potent adrenal cortical extract to his daily intake. Withdrawal of such therapy leads to signs of collapse similar to those seen in Addisonian crises. At such times the patient shows serum sodium and chloride concentrations far below normal levels with striking elevations in serum potassium and nonprotein nitrogen. In the absence of demonstrable renal insufficiency, the pigmentation, the crises, the changes in serum sodium and potassium concentrations, and high urinary sodium and chloride excretions suggest the diagnosis of Addison's disease. Moreover, these findings associated with a macrogenitosomia and a high urinary excretion of estrogens and androgens suggest that there is an abnormality in the adrenal cortex, characterized by persistence and hyperplasia of the fetal type of cortex and underdevelopment of the adult type of cortex.
Channel catfish NK-like cells are armed with IgM via a putative FcμR

Two-color flow cytometry demonstrated that 4–8% of channel catfish PBL are positive for both F and G IgL chain isotypes, suggesting that they passively acquire serum IgM via a putative FcμR. These cells show spontaneous killing toward allogeneic targets, and in vitro stimulation of PBL with allogeneic cells results in an increase of double IgL chain positive cells with a concomitant increase in nonspecific cytotoxicity. Long-term cultures of alloantigen-stimulated PBL contain both sIgM+ and sIgM− cytotoxic cells that transcribe message for the catfish homolog of the FcϵR γ chain, but not for Igμ, and TCR-α,-β, or -γ chains. Immunoprecipitation of lysates from sIgM+ NK-like cells with anti-IgM co-immunoprecipitated a putative FcμR of ∼64 kDa. Finally, removal of IgM from sIgM+ NK-like cells and replacement with anti-hapten antibody enabled antibody-armed effectors to kill haptenated targets that were refractory to killing by effectors armed with normal IgM. This is the first report suggesting that teleost NK-like cells express a putative FcμR which participates in antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity.
Properties of Sealants Containing Bis-GMA and Various Diluents

Properties of commercial and a series of experimental pit and fissure sealants, based on Bis-GMA were determined using rapid test procedures. By proper selection of monomeric diluent and addition of a photocrosslinking agent, the characteristics of sealant formulations can be varied widely.
Molecular evidence for a viral etiology of human CNS tumors

The newer methods of molecular virology, including molecular hybridization and the “simultaneous detection test,” were used to examine human brain tumors for evidence of RNA tumor viruses. It was found that they contained 70S RNA and RNA-directed DNA polymerase, both encapsulated in a particle possessing a density of 1.17 g/ml. These particles therefore satisfy the three diagnostic features that characterize the animal RNA tumor viruses. Of 26 of the most malignant (glioblastoma and medullo blastoma) brain tumors examined, 24 (92%) contained these virus-like entities. The possible usefulness of these particles as aids in diagnosis and monitoring therapy is briefly discussed.
Shock Probation in Ohio Use of Base Expectancy Rates as an Evaluation Method

In this study of Ohio's shock probation program, base expectancy rates were developed through the use of predictive attribute analysis. These rates were used to evaluate the stated guidelines of th...
Localization of protein regions involved in the interaction between calponin and myosin.

Abstract Calponin is a 33-kDa smooth muscle-specific protein that has been suggested to play a role in muscle contractility. It has previously been shown to interact with actin, tropomyosin, and calmodulin. More recently we showed that calponin also interacts with myosin (Szymanski, P. T., and Tao, T. (1993) FEBS Lett. 331, 256-259). In the present study we used a combination of co-sedimentation and fluorescence assays to localize the regions in myosin and calponin that are involved in the interaction between these two proteins. We found that recombinant chicken gizzard α-calponin co-sediments with myosin rod and, to a lesser extent, with light meromyosin. Fluorescently labeled recombinant calponin shows interaction with heavy meromyosin and myosin subfragment 2 but not subfragment 1. A fragment comprising residues 7-182 and a synthetic peptide spanning residues 146-176 of calponin co-sediment with myosin, but fragments comprising residues 7-144 and 183-292 do not. Our results indicate that there are calponin binding sites in the subfragment 2 and light meromyosin regions of myosin, and that the region comprising residues 145-182 of calponin mediates its interaction with myosin.
A method for predicting behavioral rating success

Abstract The purpose of this study was to develop a screening technique to identify potentially successful coders of videotaped behavioral observation data. Five selected 16PF personality inventory factors entered into a discriminant function analysis were found to correctly classify 85% of reliable vs. nonreliable coders.
Surface freshening in the Arctic Ocean's Eurasian Basin: An apparent consequence of recent change in the wind‐driven circulation

[1] Data collected by an autonomous ice-based observatory that drifted into the Eurasian Basin between April and November 2010 indicate that the upper ocean was appreciably fresher than in 2007 and 2008. Sea ice and snowmelt over the course of the 2010 drift amounted to an input of less than 0.5 m of liquid freshwater to the ocean (comparable to the freshening by melting estimated for those previous years), while the observed change in upper-ocean salinity over the melt period implies a freshwater gain of about 0.7 m. Results of a wind-driven ocean model corroborate the observations of freshening and suggest that unusually fresh surface waters observed in parts of the Eurasian Basin in 2010 may have been due to the spreading of anomalously fresh water previously residing in the Beaufort Gyre. This flux is likely associated with a 2009 shift in the large-scale atmospheric circulation to a significant reduction in strength of the anticyclonic Beaufort Gyre and the Transpolar Drift Stream.
Alternate world interpretation of NEW ciset operators

In this paper we present a formal model of semantics for newly introduced [8] operators of cisets. The notion of alternate worlds is used to formalize the information content of a cisets. A ciset represents a collection of (regular) sets. Once this collection has been identified, any ciset operator can be applied on the collection of (regular) sets represented by cisets involved. This approach is computationally inefficient and is introduced solely to explain in a formal way, the semantics of newly introduced operators.
The Impact of Racism on American Family Life

This review emphasizes the importance of therapists' awareness of the impact of race and racism on family life. Severalcurrent works of broad social commentary are examined.
Polyethers. VII. Aluminum catalysts for polymerization of ethylene oxide

Aluminum alkoxide and aluminum alkyl catalysts have been found to convert ethylene oxide to high molecular weight polymer. Examination of the polymer for hydroxyl and olefin end groups, wing phthalic anhydride and bromine, revealed approximately one double bond per molwule but no detectable hydroxyl groups.
Three key enablers to successful enterprise risk management

Enterprise risk management (ERM) refers to a set of processes that enables the effective management of the risks, opportunities, and expected and unexpected events that may affect the enterprise. The successful implementation of ERM is a challenging task in part because it requires collaboration among multiple business units of different sizes, scope, and capability, each facing what it perceives as unique risks. Other difficulties with ERM implementations include lack of adoption of an enterprise-wide governance model, lack of a common risk language (e.g., taxonomy), and uneven levels of maturity within an organization regarding the management of risks. This paper establishes three conceptual frameworks that provide a basis for an enterprise embarking on ERM: 1) a risk management cycle; 2) a risk-related taxonomy; and 3) an ERM maturity model. The risk management cycle provides a discipline to consistently and coherently manage virtually all risks in the enterprise. The risk taxonomy provides a foundation for clear and concise communication about risk across the enterprise to enable better risk management. The ERM maturity model, and its associated capability assessment, allows an organization to determine gaps in its current risk management processes and define ways to improve those ERM capabilities. Together, these three frameworks are key enablers for a successful ERM implementation and ongoing operation.
Automatic generation of process flow diagrams

Abstract An algorithm which automates the generation of process flow diagrams for distributed programs has been developed. The algorithm maps a graph specification to a graph diagram. The implementation of a graphics monitor uses process flow diagrams to monitor execution of distributed programs on an experimental multiprocessor system. Process states are superimposed onto process flow diagrams to enhance visualization of the execution sequence. Techniques of clustering and unclustering processes are also described.