cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis of two distinct retinoic acid response elements in the homeobox gene Hoxb1 in transgenic mice.

Expression of vertebrate Hox genes is regulated by retinoids such as retinoic acid (RA) in cell culture and in early embryonic development. Retinoic acid response elements (RAREs) have been identified in Hox gene regulatory regions, suggesting that endogenous retinoids may be involved in the direct control of Hox gene patterning functions. Previously, two RAREs located 3′ of the murine Hoxb1 gene, a DR2 RARE and a DR5 RARE, have been shown to regulate Hoxb1 mRNA expression in the neural epithelium and the foregut region, respectively; the foregut develops into the esophagus, liver, pancreas, lungs, and stomach. We have now examined the functional roles of these two types of 3′ RAREs in regulating Hoxb1 expression at different stages of gestation, from embryonic day 7.5 to 13.5, in transgenic mice carrying specific RARE mutations. We demonstrate that the DR5 RARE is required for the regulation of Hoxb-1 transgene region-specific expression in the gut and extraembryonic tissues, as well as for the RA-induced anteriorization of Hoxb-1 transgene expression in the gut. In contrast, expression of the Hoxb1 transgene in the neural epithelium requires only the DR2 RARE. By in situ hybridization, we have identified a new site of Hoxb1 expression in the developing forelimbs at approximately day 12.5, and we show that, in transgenic embryos, expression in the forelimb buds requires that either the DR2 or the DR5 RARE is functional. Attainment of a high level of Hoxb1 transgene expression in other regions, such as in rhombomere 4 (r4) and in the somites, requires that both the DR2 and DR5 RAREs are functional. In addition, our transgenic data indicate that the Hoxb1 gene is expressed in other tissues such as the hernia gut, genital eminence, and lung. Our analysis shows that endogenous retinoids act through individual DR2 and DR5 RAREs to regulate Hoxb1 expression in different regions of the embryo and that functional redundancy between these DR2 and DR5 RAREs does not exist with respect to neural epithelium and the gut Hoxb1 expression. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina treated by radiotherapy: a failures analysis--the M. D. Anderson Hospital experience 1955-1982.

Abstract The retrospective study concerns 167 patients with primary squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina treated at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Hospital and Tumor Institute between January 1955 and December 1982. Of these 167 patients, 162 were evaluable and 5 were lost to follow-up. For small tumors, localized treatment by brachytherapy alone, transvaginal irradiation with 125 to 250 kV alone or in combination with brachytherapy, was mainly used, with emphasis on use of colpostats and transvaginal irradiation for tumors of the upper half of the vagina and interstitial (with radium needles or, later, afterloaded stainless-steel guides with iridium wires) for the lower half. For medium-size tumors, local treatment was combined with external irradiation, mainly using conservative-size fields. For the majority of larger tumors or when the anatomy was distorted, external irradiation alone was used, also with portals of conservative size. Failures were analyzed in relation to FIGO (International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology) staging, tumor location, and modality of treatment. As expected, central failures were higher in Stage III disease (9 of 38 patients, 24%) but also uncomfortably high for Stage I patients (13 of 71 patients, 18%) treated locally or with external and local irradiation. The incidence of central treatment failures in tumors of the lower vagina (1351 patients, 25%) was somewhat higher than for tumors located in the upper vagina (13/85 patients, 15%), but the percentage of large tumors in the lower vagina was 53% compared with 31% in the upper vagina. Severe complications were related to high doses of irradiation alone or in combination with aggressive surgery, and to pelvic inflammatory disease.
Killing for God's sake: The spiritual crisis in religion and society

Unwittingly, religion often fosters or, at least, supports violence. Yet in a pluralistic society where religious tolerance is safeguarded, it is difficult to adjudicate public opinion that claims a religious base. This paper proposes a response-to tease apart religion and spirituality and to explicate spirituality as a human, and not necessarily a theological, thing. The core of such an understanding is the self-aware and self-transcending dimension of the human mind that can rightly be called spirit and to which numerous thinkers have pointed. Especially the thought of Bernard Lonergan contributes to a detailed account of this matter. Inherent in humanity as such, spirituality is essential to any society. Perforce spirituality is a necessary public concern, and it is a legitimate subject matter for the human sciences. On the common ground of spirituality, religious, political, and scientific collaboration could generate a shared ethos that supports social cohesion and proscribes violence from whatever source.
Myocardial Revascularization : The Effect of Alteration of Perfusion Pressures Upon Myocardial Implant Blood Flow

To assess the role of blood flow in maintaining the patency of myocardial implants of the Vineberg type, hemodynamic measurements were made in two groups of animals immediately following revascularization. Perfusion of blood at systemic pressures into recently constructed arterial and venous myocardial implants resulted in no blood flow from implant to myocardium in five of ten experiments. Perfusion of myocardial implants at a constant flow rate of 3.8 ml of blood per minute resulted in suprasystolic implant pressures and large myocardial hematomas in all dogs. The absence of immediate implant blood flow at systemic perfusion pressures and the development of myocardial hematomas following low volume perfusions suggest that flow from implant to myocardium is not an important determinant of immediate implant patency and that myocardial revascularization has no immediate therapeutic value.
Interactions between Polymyxin B and Divalent Nickel in Near-Neutral Aqueous Media

Stopped-flow and temperature-jump methods were used to determine the complexation constants for the reactions of polymyxin B with Ni2 + at 25° and 0.1 M ionic strength [N(CH3)4NO3]. At pH 6.4–7.1 and with the ligand in excess, the formation of a 1:1 metal–ligand complex according to the reaction scheme Ni2 + + H3L3 + ⇄ = NiH3L5 + and Ni2 + + H4L4 + ⇄ NiH3L5 + + H+ (k1 and k′1 are respective forward rate constants; k− 1 and k′− 1 are respective reverse rate constants) is consistent with the data. The determined rate constants are k1 = (3.8 ± 0.2) × 103 M− 1 sec− 1 and k− 1 = (1.2 ± 0.1) × 10− 1 sec− 1. Upper and lower limits for k′− 1 of 2.4 and 0.6 M− 1 sec− 1, respectively, were set. The stability constant (K1 = k1/k− 1) of the 1:1 complex determined by potentiometric titration is (3.3 ± 0.1) × 104 M; the four pKa values of polymyxin B agree with the literature values. At pH 7.1–7.9 and with the metal ion in excess, the described scheme and a binuclear complex reaction step, Ni2 + + NiHL3 + ⇄ Ni2HL5 + (k2 is the forward rate constant; k− 2 is the reverse rate constant), fit the data. Upper and lower limits for 62 of 1 × 104 and 3 × 103 M− l sec− l, respectively, were set for the formation of the binuclear complex. Comparison with model system complex formation rate constants indicates that the forward rate constants evaluated in this study are enhanced. This effect may be interpreted in terms of an internal conjugate base mechanism.
Removing Space Debris Through Sequential Captures and Ejections

Low Earth orbit is overcluttered by rogue objects. Traditional satellite missions are not efficient enough to collect an appreciable amount of debris due to the high cost of orbit transfers. Many alternate proposals are politically controversial, costly, or dependent on further technological advances. This paper proposes an efficient mission structure and bespoke hardware to deorbit debris by capturing and ejecting them. These are executed through plastic interactions, and the momentum exchanges during capture and ejection assist the satellite in transferring to subsequent debris with substantial reduction in fuel requirements. The proposed hardware also exploits existing momentum to save fuel. Capturing debris at the ends of a spinning satellite, adjusting angular rate, and then simply letting go at a specified time provides a simple mechanism for redirecting the debris to an Earth-impacting trajectory or lower perigee. This paper provides analyses for orbit and hardware functionality and aspects of the ...
A nitric acid plant tissue digest method for use with inductively coupled plasma spectrometry

Abstract A wet digestion method for plant tissue analysis for use with Inductively Coupled Plasma ‐ Atomic Emission Spectrometry has been developed. This procedure uses only nitric acid and eliminates the use of perchloric acid and subsequently eliminates the danger of HClO4. explosions, and the problem of KClO4 precipitation. Analysis of National Bureau of Standards plant materials ‐ orchard, tomato, and spinach leaves ‐ digested with nitric‐perchloric acid or nitric acid compared very well with the NBS certified values. The analytical results for eight other plant species were comparable for the two methods of digestion. A summary of the recommended procedure for use with ICP is given below: 1. Weigh 0.5 to 1.0 g of plant tissue into a 50 ml Taylor tube. 2. Add 10 ml conc, nitric acid. Let stand overnight. 3. Heat samples at 125° C for 4 hours. Let cool. 4. Dilute to 12.5 ml with conc, nitric acid. Dilute to 50 ml with distilled water. Mix and let amorphous silica settle. 5. Aspirate directly into plasm...
Assessing Fiscal Stress

This paper develops a new index which provides early warning signals of fiscal sustainability problems for advanced and emerging economies. Unlike previous studies, the index assesses the determinants of fiscal stress periods, covering public debt default as well as near-default events. The fiscal stress index depends on a parsimonious set of fiscal indicators, aggregated using the approach proposed by Kaminsky, Lizondo and Reinhart (1998). The index is used to assess the build up of fiscal stress over time since the mid-1990s in advanced and emering economies. Fiscal stress has increased recently to record-high levels in advanced countries, reflecting raising solvency risks and financing needs. In emerging economies, risks are lower than in mature economies owing to sounder fiscal fundamentals, but fiscal stress remains higher than before the crisis.
Depression and Disordered Eating in the Obese Person

Three mental health problems commonly associated with obesity are major depression, binge eating disorder (BED), and Night Eating Syndrome (NES). Evidence from both cross-sectional and longitudinal studies support independent relationships between obesity and depression, and between obesity and binge eating. These problems are most prevalent in severely obese individuals (Class III obesity; a body mass index (BMI) of >40kgm(2)), many of whom seek bariatric surgery, and we briefly review whether the presence of pre-operative depression, BED or NES affects post-operative outcomes. Historically depressed individuals have been screened out of weight loss trials due to concerns of worsening mood with weight loss. Such practices have precluded the development of effective treatments for depressed, obese individuals, leaving large numbers of people without appropriate care. We present recent advances in this area, and attempt to answer whether depressed individuals can lose clinically significant amounts of weight, show improvements in mood, and adhere to the demands of a weight loss intervention.
The Effect of Non-Enzymatic Browning in the Presence of Glucose and Glycine on the Development of Rancidity in Corn Oil

A model system was used to study the effect of non-enzymatic browning in the presence of glucose and glycine on the rancidity of corn oil. It was found that each of glucose and glycine alone has some antioxidative effect on the development of rancidity but that of glycine glucose mixture was considerably more than either of them. Der Einflus der nichtenzymatischen Braunung in Gegenwart von Glukose und Glycin auf die Ranziditat des Maisoles Mit Hilfe eines Modell-Systems wurde der Einflus der nichtenzymatischen Braunung in Gegenwart von Glukose und Glycin auf die Ranziditat des Maisoles untersucht. Es zeigte sich, das sowohl Glukose als auch Glycin gegenuber der Ranziditat antioxidativ wirken, jedoch besitzt ein Gemisch von Glukose und Glycin eine wesentlich hohere antioxidative Wirkung.
Compound EGFR mutations and response to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

Background: Non–small-cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) containing EGFR mutations are exquisitely sensitive to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). This is the case of the most common EGFR mutations affecting exon 18 (G719X), 19 (inframe deletions), and 21 (L858R and L861Q). However, the frequency of compound (i.e., double or complex) EGFR mutations—where an EGFR TKI sensitizing or other mutation is identified together with a mutation of unknown clinical significance—and their pattern of response/resistance to EGFR TKIs are less well described. Methods: We analyzed the EGFR mutation pattern of 79 cases of NSCLC harboring EGFR mutations and compiled the genotype-response data for patients with NSCLCs with compound EGFR mutations treated with EGFR TKIs. Results: Of the 79 EGFR -mutated tumors identified, 11 (14%) had compound mutations. Most involved the EGFR TKI–sensitizing G719X ( n = 3, plus S768I or E709A), L858R ( n = 4, plus L747V, R776H, T790M, or A871G), L861Q ( n = 1, plus E709V), and delL747_T751 ( n = 1, plus R776H). Eight patients received an EGFR TKI: three cases with G719X plus another mutation had partial responses (PRs) to erlotinib; of three cases with L858R plus another mutation, two displayed PRs and one (with EGFR -L858R+A871G) progressive disease (PD) to erlotinib; one NSCLC with EGFR -L861Q+E709A and one with delL747_T751+R776S had PRs to EGFR TKIs. Conclusion: Compound EGFR mutations comprised 14% of all mutations identified during routine sequencing of exons 18–21 of EGFR in our cohort. Most patients with an EGFR TKI–sensitizing mutation (G719X, exon 19 deletion, L858R, and L861Q) in addition to an atypical mutation responded to EGFR TKIs. Reporting of the genotype-response pattern of NSCLCs with EGFR compound and other rare mutations, and the addition of this information to searchable databases, will be helpful to select the appropriate therapy for EGFR -mutated NSCLC.
Cloning of a Microbispora bispora cellobiohydrolase gene in Streptomyces lividans

The cellobiohydrolase II (CBHII) of Microbispora bispora, originally cloned in Escherichia coli, was subcloned into Streptomyces lividans using shuttle vectors pSKN 01 and pSKN 02. The enzyme was secreted from Streptomyces, whereas it was intracellular in E. coli. The yields of CBHII produced by S. lividans transformants were 15–20-fold higher than those produced by E. coli transformants. The optimal pH of M. bispora native cellobiohydrolase and the cloned enzyme from S. lividans is 6.5. The thermal and pH stability of CHBII produced in M. bispora, E. coli and S. lividans were compared. Enzyme produced in E. coli was inactivated more rapidly (k = 0.252 min−1 at 90° C; 90% inactivation after 10 min vs. 0.119 min−1 for the others). CBHII was monitored following electrophoretic separation by reaction with a monoclonal antibody. The apparent molecular mass of the protein produced from the S. lividans clone was 93 kDa, the same as that of the native enzyme, but that of the enzyme produced in E. coli was smaller (82 kDa).
A common‐trends and error‐correction approach to forecasting corporate bond returns

It is found that one unit root, common trend, is shared by the monthly price indices of the top four ratings of corporate bonds. Addition of an index of low-grade bonds to the vector time series results in two common trends. Consistent results are provided by dynamic factor analyses. The returns for the system of cointegrated indices can be represpnted by an error-correction model using past returns and cointegrating vectors. This model can provide more accurate forecasts than a common VAR that omits the cointegrating vectors. The common-trends analysis provides specific linear combinations, or cointegrating portfolios, of the index price levels that are stationary. The cointegrating portfolios associated with the two common trends have returns that are related to T-bill returns and unanticipated inflation.
Ethical Decision-Making Differences Between Philippines and United States Students

In today's global marketplace, the Philippines provide a unique example of an Asian culture with established economic ties to the West. In this study, Philippine and United States undergraduate business students responded to 13 vignettes describing questionable ethical actions in business situations. Results reveal significant differences between groups for 9 of the 13 vignettes. For 4 vignettes, Philippine participants were more disapproving of the actions, and for another 5, United States participants were more disapproving. The study suggests that cultural differences continue and the implications of these differences should be considered in today's global economy.
Minor Physical Anomalies: A Newborn Screening and 1-Year Follow-Up

Abstract We screened 933 infants for minor physical anomalies at birth and evaluated 123 of these infants at 1 year of age. The anomaly scores were found to be reliable and stable over time, and to correlate with infant irritability at 1 years. In the high anomaly group there was a positive correlation of both irritability and hyperactivity at 1 year with family history of hyperactivity and/or behavior disorders or obstetrical complications. These findings may indicate a congenital contribution to behavior disorders for nonretarded preschool children.
SOME PROCEDURES FOR CALCULATING POTENTIAL EVAPOTRANSPIRATION

(1973). SOME PROCEDURES FOR CALCULATING POTENTIAL EVAPOTRANSPIRATION. The Professional Geographer: Vol. 25, No. 1, pp. 22-28.
Strain relaxation of SiGe islands on compliant oxide

The relaxation of patterned, compressively strained, epitaxial Si0.7Ge0.3 films transferred to borophosphorosilicate (BPSG) glass by a wafer-bonding and etch-back technique was studied as an approach for fabricating defect-free Si1−xGex relaxed films. Both the desired in-plane expansion and undesired buckling of the films concurrently contribute to the relaxation. Their relative role in the relaxation process was examined experimentally and by modeling. Using x-ray diffraction, Raman scattering and atomic force microscopy, the dynamics of in-plane expansion and buckling of Si0.7Ge0.3 islands for island sizes ranging from 10 μm×10 μm to 200 μm×200 μm for anneal temperatures between 750 and 800 °C was investigated. Lateral relaxation is favored in small and thick islands, and buckling is initially dominant in large and thin islands. Raising the temperature to lower viscosity of the oxide enhances the rate of both processes equally. For very long annealing times, however, the buckling disappeared, allowing l...
Statistical shape fluctuations in Er-166

Statistical shape fluctuations are calculated for /sup 166/Er at spins 0 and 40(h/2..pi..). The fluctuations produce an average shape, which is distinct from the most probable (i.e., mean field) shape. At low temperatures the average shape is similar to the most probable shape, and the shape fluctuations are small. With increasing temperature the shape fluctuations increase, as does the difference between the average shape and the most probable shape. The fluctuations smooth out the sharp shape transitions predicted by mean field theories. Although the most probable phase at spin 40(h/2..pi..) and critical temperature 1.64 MeV is oblate noncollective rotation, the fluctuations create a high probability for prolate collective, prolate noncollective, and oblate collective rotations as well.
Prednisone, azathioprine, and cyclosporine A toxicity on human fetal pancreas.

The limited clinical success of human fetal pancreas (HFP) transplantation may be related to graft toxicity caused by immunosuppressant agents. This study describes the effects of prednisone (PRED), azathioprine (AZA), and cyclosporine A (CSA) on HFP tissue in vitro and in vivo. To assess in vitro function, fresh HFP explants (1–2 mm3; 16–21 weeks gestational age) were prepared and cultured 72 hr in supplemented Ham's medium containing varying concentrations of each drug. Insulin release in response to high glucose (17 mM) and theophylline (10 mM) challenge was determined and compared to basal release in low glucose (3 mM) buffer. No significant difference in insulin release was observed between culture control tissue and drug-cultured tissue throughout the concentration range (10−8-10−4M; P > 0.05). To assess in vivo function, cyropreserved HFP explants were transplanted under the kidney capsule of streptozotocin-induced diabetic nude mice. Mice were immunosuppressed with PRED (1 mg/kg), AZA (1 mg/kg), CSA (30 mg/kg), or combined triple drug therapy (COMBO), and glucose levels followed weekly. Hyperglycemia reversal and insulin withdrawal were observed in all drug groups [PRED (46), AZA (46), CSA (24), COMBO, (24)] and were not statistically different from control (58; P > 0.8). Time to insulin withdrawal was significantly different from control (12.2 ± 2.2 weeks; P < 0.05) only for AZA (10 ± 0 weeks; PRED, 12.3 ± 2.6 weeks; CSA, 11 ± 0 weeks; COMBO, 15 ± 0 weeks). Additionally, oral glucose tolerance tests in all groups were equivalent to nondiabetic controls. We were unable to demonstrate PRED, AZA, or CSA toxicity on HFP. Future investigation of HFP graft failure should be directed toward causes other than direct drug toxicity.
Interaction of clonidine with pre- and post-synaptic adrenergic receptors of rat brain: Effects on cyclic AMP-generating systems

Abstract The locus and mechanism of interaction of clonidine with catecholamine-elicited accumulations of cyclic AMP has been investigated in brain slices from control and 6-hydroxydopamine-treated rats of the F-344 and Sprague—Dawley strains. The inhibitory effects of clonidine on the norepinephrine-stimulated accumulation of cyclic AMP and the potentiative effects of clonidine on the isoproterenol-stimulated accumulation of cyclic AMP are present to the same extent in cerebral cortical slices from control and 6-hydroxydopamine-treated Sprague—Dawley rats. Clonidine, at concentrations between 0.001 and 100 μM has no intrinsic stimulatory activity on cortical cyclic AMP-generating systems from either control or 6-hydroxydopamine-treated rats. In F-344 rats phenoxybenzamine (100 μM) elicits a significant accumulation of cyclic AMP in cerebral cortical slices which can be abolished by pretreatment of rats with 6-hydroxydopamine, or by incubation of tissue slices with either clonidine or sotalol. The hyperresponsiveness of catecholamines usually observed following central administration of 6-hydroxydopamine failed to develop in the F-344 rat. Concentrations of phenoxybenzamine which have no significant stimulatory effects on cyclic AMP accumulation are capable of abolishing the potentiative effects of clonidine on the isoproterenol-stimulated formation of cyclic AMP. The β-antagonist, sotalol, is a less effective antagonist of isoproterenol-stimulated accumulation of cyclic AMP in the presence of clonidine. Clonidine has no significant effect on the accumulation of cyclic AMP elicited by submaximal concentrations of isoproterenol in cerebellar slices. In toto, the data are consistent with the hypothesis that both the inhibitory effects on norepinephrine-stimulated accumulation of cyclic AMP and the stimulatory effects of clonidine on isoproterenol-elicited accumulation of cyclic AMP are exerted at postsynaptic α-adrenoceptors. No evidence was found for a presynaptic generation of cyclic AMP, although clonidine does reverse the stimulatory effects of phenoxybenzamine on cyclic AMP accumulation, presumably by interaction with a presynaptic site controlling norepinephrine release.
The Effects of Hurricane Katrina on Females with a Pre-Existing Fear of Storms

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of Hurricane Katrina on those with preexisting storm fear. Participants were divided into two groups, those with a fear of storms and control participants with no reported fears of any specific stimuli. Differences were examined on measures of exposure to and distress from trauma, fear, coping self-efficacy, and demographic variables. The participants were 62 female undergraduate college students who completed an online survey examining the effects of Hurricane Katrina. Despite no differences in the overall occurrence of trauma between the two groups, storm-fearful participants reported significantly more overall distress from their exposure when compared to the non-fearful participants. Those with storm-fears also reported significantly poorer coping self-efficacy following the storm than those who were not fearful. Overall, individuals with a fear of storms reported experiencing greater psychological impact and poorer coping self-efficacy from the same degree of storm exposure.
Photoproduction of carbonyl sulfide in South Pacific Ocean waters as a function of irradiation wavelength

Carbonyl sulfide (OCS) photoproduction rates were measured at selected wavelengths of ultraviolet light between 297 and 405 nm in sea water samples from the southern Pacific Ocean. Near-surface and column production rate spectra for natural sunlit waters were calculated using sea-surface sunlight data measured near the austral summer solstice. These plots show that photoproduction rates are at a maximum at 313 nm in tropical waters and at 336 nm in Antarctic waters. Tropical surface and column rates were found to be 68 pM/day and 360 nmol/m²/day, respectively, and Antarctic surface and column rates were found to be 101 pM/day and 620 nmol/m²/day, respectively. A high degree of variability was observed between photoproduction rates from different ocean regions, with coastal rates being the highest, suggesting that natural environmental variability is an important factor. Photoproduction rates at 297 nm were found to be constant at individual locations with increasing irradiation time. Relative photoproduction rates from this work are compared to previously measured rates from coastal sea water.
RECURRENT MENINGOCOCCAL MENINGITIS AND ABSENCE OF THE SIXTH COMPONENT OF COMPLEMENT

A healthy 5½ year old girl developed Neisseria meningitidis, group Y meningitis and bacteremia; the organism was sensitive to the antibiotics employed. Ten months after full recovery a second episode of group Y N. meningitidis meninigitis occurred. Appropriate leukocytosis and neutrophilla were present. Serum immunoglobulin levels were normal, as were antibody titers to blood group and typhoid antigens. Class specific fluorescent antibody titers to autologous meningococci, bactericidal antibody, and antibody to meningococcal protein antigen were elevated. There was a complete lack of serum hemolytic complement activity due to absence of the sixth component (C6). C3 was transiently depressed in association with a disseminated coagulopathy; C8 levels were 1/3 of normal; the remaining components were comparable to reference sera. Complement mediated opsonization of zymosan was normal, as was polymorphonuclear leukocyte killing of opsonized S. aureus and K. coli. The early acting components of the alternative complement pathway were functionally intact. T and B lymphocyte numbers and response to mitogens was normal. No coagulation defects were demonstrable. The patient's mother and uncle had half normal levels of C6. The two previously reported cases of C6 deficiency had recurrent N. gonorrhea and meningitidis infections respectively, underscoring the significance of this late complement component in host defense against Neisseriaspecies. (Grants fiD 00413, At 07051 and AI 10286)
I. High performance liquid chromatography of pharmacologically active amines and peptides in biological materials

Abstract Precise and quantitative reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) procedures are described which can be used in biogenic amine and neuropeptide research. The amine procedure was applied to various pharmacological matrices including plasma, heart tissue and brain. The use of peptide HPLC as an analytical tool for various neuropeptides is illustrated by studies on des-tyrosine-γ-endorphin (DTγE) metabolism in the brain and the stability of an ACTH (ORG-2766) analogue during a chronic infusion in rats. The power of HPLC as a research tool in peptide pharmacology is described, discussed and demonstrated as an aid in the understanding of the pharmacological effects of exogenous peptides and the function of the brain.
Laser-induced volatilization and ionization of aerosol particles for their mass spectral analysis in real time

A method for the chemical analysis of individual aerosol particles on a real-time basis has been developed. This is accomplished by measuring their mass spectra. In this method, particles are directly introduced in the ion source of the mass spectrograph in the form of a beam. Volatilization and ionization of a particle in an ion source of the mass spectrograph is performed by using a pulsed high-energy Nd-YAG laser. Each particle, when hit by the laser pulse, produces a burst of ions of different masses. These ions are spatially separated according to their masses along the focal plane of a mass spectrograph and their intensities are measured simultaneously by an array detector. Some of the preliminary results on the mass spectral measurement of potassium biphthalate particles are presented. Volatilization and ionization of particles eliminate any possible substrate sample matrix interferences in the analysis. In order to preserve the real-time feature of the method for the analysis of particles present in low concentrations, the aerosol sample is concentrated by using a two-stage virtual impactor.
Residual aganglionosis after pull-through operation for Hirschsprung's disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Most patients with Hirschsprung’s disease (HD) have a satisfactory outcome after pull-through (PT) operation. However, some children continue to have persistent bowel symptoms after the initial operation and may require redo PT. Redo PT operation in HD is usually indicated for anastomotic strictures or residual aganglionosis (RA). We designed this meta-analysis to determine the incidence and outcome of RA among patients with HD following PT operation. A meta-analysis of redo PT operations for HD reported in the literature between 1985 and 2011 was performed. Detailed information was recorded in patients with RA and transition-zone bowel (TZB), including recurrent bowel problems, histological findings on repeat rectal biopsy, type of redo PT operation and outcome. Twenty-nine articles reported 555 patients with redo PT operations. 193 (34.8%) patients demonstrated abnormal histological findings on rectal biopsy with 144 patients showing RA and 49 patients showing TZB. These 193 patients presented with persistent constipation (n = 135), recurrent enterocolitis (n = 45) and abnormal histology of the pulled-through bowel (n = 13). Mean age at redo PT was 4.4 years (range 4 months–17 years). Redo procedures were Duhamel (n = 57), transanal endorectal PT (n = 40), Soave (n = 35), Swenson (n = 10), posterior sagittal approach (n = 1) and not reported (n = 50). Follow-up information after redo PT was available in 134 (69.4%) patients and not available in 59 patients. Of the 134 patients, 99 (73.9%) patients had normal bowel habits, 19 patients had persistent constipation/soiling and 16 patients had recurrent enterocolitis. This meta-analysis reveals that RA and TZB are the underlying causes of persistent bowel symptoms in one-third of all patients with HD requiring redo PT operation. Most patients have a satisfactory outcome after redo operation. Rectal biopsy should be performed in all patients with recurrent bowel problems after PT operation.
THE RHETORIC OF DEHUMANIZATION An Analysis of Medical Reports of the Tuskegee Syphilis Project

Examining the medical journal reports of the Tuskegee syphilis study, this essay explores the role that rhetoric played in the study's continuation. The essay argues that depicting patients as scen...
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Silicate Glasses and Glass Surfaces

A variety of classical (Newtonian) computational approaches have been developed to address the atomistic structure and behavior of materials, such as molecular dynamics (MD), monte carlo (MC), and molecular mechanics (MM) computer simulations. For the purposes of the current review, the discussion will be limited to the MD simulation technique. A major advantage of the classical MD technique is the ability to study large numbers of atoms, O(103–107), for relatively long times (from the standpoint of certain molecular events), O(ns-μs). By gathering data over these large numbers and times, the simulated time and number averages can be compared to the experimentally obtained time and number averages that are inherent in most experiments. If the simulations reproduce the experimental data (with some expected level of accuracy), the simulations offer the advantage of enabling an evaluation of the discrete events that caused the time and number averages. That is, because all of the atoms are labeled in the simulations, the exact atomistic behavior that cause the averaged data can be followed in order to determine the molecular mechanisms. Although algorithms have been developed that employ some level of electronic structure calculations with MD or MC schemes, system sizes are still fairly limited because of computational complexity. This chapter will discuss some aspects of the MD technique used in our laboratory to study glasses, glass surfaces, and interfaces, and some specific results. The data presented in this review were generated using the classical molecular dynamics (MD) computer simulation technique. Classical MD simulations involve solving Newton’s equations of motion for a system of interacting particles (atoms, ions, or hard spheres). The earliest MD simulations involved hard spheres (Alder and Wainwright 1957, 1959), but have been followed by decades of research into new algorithms and new interatomic potentials of varying complexity, …
ON A CLASS OF SKEW DISTRIBUTION FUNCTIONS

It is the purpose of this paper to analyse a class of distribution functions that appears in a wide range of empirical data-particularly data describing sociological, biological and economic phenomena. Its appearance is so frequent, and the phenomena in which it appears so diverse, that one is led to the conjecture that if these phenomena have any property in common it can only be a similarity in the structure of the underlying probability mechanisms. The empirical distributions to which we shall refer specifically are: (A) distributions of words in prose samples by their frequency of occurrence, (B) distributions of scientists by number of papers published, (C) distributions of cities by population, (D) distributions of incomes by size, and (E) distributions of biological genera by number of species. No one supposes that there is any connexion between horse-kicks suffered by soldiers in the German army and blood cells on a microscope slide other than that the same urn scheme provides a satisfactory abstract model of both phenomena. It is in the same direction that we shall look for an explanation of the observed close similarities among the five classes of distributions listed above. The observed distributions have the following characteristics in common: (a) They are J-shaped, or at least highly skewed, with very long upper tails. The tails can generally be approximated closely by a function of the form
What Controls Partitioning of the Nucleic Acid Bases between Chloroform and Water

The free energies of solvation for six nucleic acid bases in water and chloroform are predicted using the SM5.4/A quantum mechanical self-consistent-field solvation model. We obtain a mean unsigned deviation from experiment of 0.2 log10 units in the partition coefficients, lending extra credibility to the predicted solvation free energies. Predictions are then made for an additional six unnatural nucleic acid bases for which no experimental data are available. Functional group contributions to the solvent−solvent partitioning phenomenon are examined, and the validity of fragment-based partitioning models is assessed.
The chilling sensitivity of root ammonium influx in a cultivated and wild tomato

A chilling episode of a few hours damaged root ammonium absorption in a cultivated tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum cv. T-5), but not in a wild congener from high altitudes (Lycopersicon hirsutum LA1778). In the cultivar, ammonium influx was strongly temperature dependent and showed the residual effects of chilling, whereas ammonium efflux was nearly temperature invariant and showed no persistent effects. A 2 h exposure to 5 °C significantly depressed subsequent ammonium absorption at 20 °C, and about 12 h at 20 °C was required for recovery. For both the cultivated and wild species, rerooted cuttings were slightly less sensitive to chilling than seedlings. The relative inhibition (mean ± SE) of ammonium absorption before and after chilling was 58·4 ± 2·5% for the cultivated species and 29·0 ± 9·1% for the wild species. The F1 hybrid between the species showed a relative inhibition of 52·4 ± 3·6%, suggesting that chilling sensitivity may be dominant. In a backcross of the hybrid to L. esculentum, the phenotypic distribution of the relative inhibition of ammonium absorption indicated that this trait is segregating.
Clinical evaluation of a urine transport kit with lyophilized preservative for culture, urinalysis, and sediment microscopy.

Abstract Comparative results of urine culture, specific gravity, chemical urinalysis, and sediment microscopy were assessed when specimens submitted to the clinical laboratory were divided and processed either in a transport kit containing a lyophilized preservative or in a conventionalsterile cup without preservative. Overall agreement of results of 853 cultures after initial processing of samples in the laboratory was 98.7%. Results of 320 repeat cultures after a 24-hr holding period (preserved samples at room temperature, unpreserved samples refrigerated) and 277 repeat cultures after a 48-hr holding period also showed excellent agreement (99.1% and 95.7%, respectively). Results of urinalysis and sediment microscopy done an 370 specimens demonstrated greater than 98% agreement after receipt of specimens in the laboratory and greater than 94% agreement after the holding periods. Specific gravity determinations from samples processed in the presence of preservative consistently were 0.006-0.007 units greater than in samples processed without preservative, and a reporting adjustment will be necessary when the transport kit is used. I thank Drs. David Gocke and Paul Smilow for reviewing the manuscript, Judy Rothberg for technical assistance, Alissa Bernholz for assistance with data processing and analysis, and Janet Gross for secretarial support. This study was supported in part by a grant from Becton Dickinson Vacutainer Systems, Rutherford, New Jersey.
Gastric conduit urinary diversion in normal dogs. Part II, Hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis

Gastric conduit urinary diversion was performed in 10 dogs after complete cystectomy. Four dogs were euthanatized on day 30 because of hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis and renal failure. Hematologic and biochemical changes in six dogs evaluated for 120 days were compatible with hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis. The continuous loss of hydrochloric acid from the gastric conduit resulted in significant increases in arterial blood pH, PaCO2, anion gap, TCO2, and the concentration of Hco3-. There were significant decreases in PaO2 and the serum concentrations of chloride and potassium. Deterioration of renal function resulted in all dogs. It was concluded that hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis makes gastric conduit urinary diversion unsatisfactory for clinical use in dogs.
Instruction, Not Inclusion, Should Be the Central Issue in Special Education: An Alternative View from the USA.

Abstract A focus on anything other than instruction undercuts the legal and moral rights of students with disabilities to an appropriate education and fails to produce substantive social justice. D...
Nanotemplate Engineering of Cell Specific Nanoparticles

Abstract Through nanotechnology, it is now possible to cost‐effectively and reproducibly create and develop useful small particles for applications in the pharmaceutical, medical, chemical, and engineering fields. In the pharmaceutical field, cost‐effective, reproducible, and scalable processes to engineer cell‐ or tissue‐targeted nanoparticles are sought to deliver potent drugs as new therapies. A natural and spontaneous method to engineer nanoparticles has been developed through the use of microemulsions whereby the dispersed phase droplets serve as “nanotemplates” to directly form stable nanoparticles. The present review will serve to provide an overview of the challenges and opportunities in developing ideal nanoparticulate carrier systems and the use of microemulsion precursors to engineer nanoparticles. An overview will be presented on our work in targeting surface‐modified nanoparticles to (1) dendritic cells for potential new types of genetic and subunit protein vaccines, and (2) solid tumors for ...
Metric Foliations and Curvature

We prove a rigidity theorem for Riemannian fibrations of flat spaces over compact bases and give a metric classification of compact four-dimensional manifolds of nonnegative curvature that admit totally geodesic Riemannian foliations.
Metabolic Complications of in utero Maternal HIV and Antiretroviral Exposure in HIV-Exposed Infants

Background Despite a wide body of literature supporting the use of antenatal antiretrovirals (ARV) for the prevention of mother to child transmission, there remains a need for continued monitoring as the intrauterine interval is a critical period during which fetal programming influences the future health and development of the child.
Culture of PNKT-4B cells at invasion permissive and restrictive temperatures. I. Chromosomal analysis

PNKT-4B is an aneuploid cell line derived from a herpesvirus-induced renal adenocarcinoma of Rana pipiens that displays restricted invasion at 21°C or cooler and invasion at 23°C through 28°C. Metaphase chromosomes obtained from subcultures (passages 297; 345–347) grown at 18°C or 28°C were Giemsa stained or N-banded with acidic silver nitrate. Cells grown at 18°C displayed a modal chromosome number of 41, while 28°C cultures displayed a modal number of 40. The distribution of the chromosomes suggests that the two temperatures may be allowing growth of different subclonal populations. N-banding of chromosomes at both temperatures revealed an increase of active nucleolar organizer regions (NORs) over normal frog tissues, 2/2N. Analysis of 200 N-banded spreads from cells grown at each temperature revealed modal numbers of 9 NORs/cell and modal numbers of 6 NOR-containing chromosomes/cell. Nine specific NOR-containing chromosomes were identified and scored. Similar distributions were observed at 18°C and 28°C. The data imply that the modal number of PNKT-4B has shifted since it was first described, 39, and differs at invasion-permissive and — restrictive temperatures. Increased numbers of active NORs and alterations of NOR-containing chromosomes imply an amplification of rDNA over the amount in normal frog.
A stable under-gate triode CNT field emitter fabricated via screen printing

A screen printed, under-gate triode with carbon nanotube field emitters is demonstrated. The geometry of the device allows it to be matrix addressable. Fabrication methods including CVD deposition of dielectric and/or nanotubes, wet etching, and photolithography are eliminated by the use of screen printing, effectively lowering the cost of manufacture of the device. Through the use of a charge dissipation layer the emission current is greatly enhanced, and instabilities which plagued previous under-gate devices are eliminated. When a square pulse of 30 µs is applied at a rate of 120 Hz emission currents of > 4 µA/cm2 are achieved for gate voltages of < 300 V without any ungated emission. This structure is a prime candidate to be used in a field emission backlight unit (BLU) for an LCD due to its reduced cost of manufacture, stable operation, and local delivery of pulsed light.
Optimization and life-cycle cost of health clinic PV system for a rural area in southern Iraq using HOMER software

Abstract This paper addresses the need for electricity of rural areas in southern Iraq and proposes a photovoltaic (PV) solar system to power a health clinic in that region. The total daily health clinic load is 31.6 kW h and detailed loads are listed. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) optimization computer model for distributed power, “HOMER,” is used to estimate the system size and its life-cycle cost. The analysis shows that the optimal system’s initial cost, net present cost, and electricity cost is US$ 50,700, US$ 60,375, and US$ 0.238/kW h, respectively. These values for the PV system are compared with those of a generator alone used to supply the load. We found that the initial cost, net present cost of the generator system, and electricity cost are US$ 4500, US$ 352,303, and US$ 1.332/kW h, respectively. We conclude that using the PV system is justified on humanitarian, technical, and economic grounds.
A novel deletion mutation in the proton-coupled folate transporter (PCFT; SLC46A1) in a Nicaraguan child with hereditary folate malabsorption.

Abstract Hereditary folate malabsorption (OMIM 229050 ) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in the proton-coupled folate transporter gene ( pcft / SLC46A1 ) resulting in impaired folate transport across the intestine and into the central nervous system. We report a novel, homozygous, deletion mutation in a child of Nicaraguan descent in exon 2 (c.558–588 del, ss778190447) at amino acid position I188 resulting in a frameshift with a premature stop.
A stable quinone identified in the reaction of carnosol, a major antioxidant in rosemary, with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical

Carnosol is known as a major antioxidant in rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.). The reaction of carnosol with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical was carried out and a novel product was identified as a quinine of carnosol, carnosylquinone. A mechanism for the carnosol-DPPH reaction is proposed.