cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Blood urea nitrogen concentration as a marker of amino-acid intolerance in neonates with birthweight less than 1250 g.

Currently blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is commonly used as a marker of protein intolerance in very preterm infants. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between amino-acid intakes and BUN concentrations during the early neonatal period in preterm neonates. Retrospective review of BUN concentration data from 121 infants with birthweight ≤1250 g receiving exclusive parenteral nutrition over the first 72 hours of life. There were 136 separate BUN concentration values. Amino-acid intake range was 0 to 3.7 g kg−1 day−1 and nonprotein calorie intake range was 15 to 45 kcal kg−1 d−1. There was no correlation between BUN concentration and amino-acid intake (p=0.2 and r2=0.01). In parenterally nourished preterm neonates amino-acid intake is not correlated with BUN concentration in the first days of life. Therefore, limiting amino-acid intake based on BUN concentration is not warranted in this patient population.
Induction of macrophage‐derived SLPI by Mycobacterium tuberculosis depends on TLR2 but not MyD88

Macrophages respond to Mycobacterium tuberculosis by regulating expression of gene products that initiate a host innate response to this microorganism. In this study, we report that exposure of murine peritoneal macrophages to heat-killed Mycobacterium tuberculosis (HK-Mtb) led to an increase in secretory leucocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) gene expression and protein secretion in a time- and dose-dependent manner. HK-Mtb-induced SLPI mRNA expression was sensitive neither to a protein synthesis inhibitor, cycloheximide, nor to an actin polymerization blocker, cytochalasin D. Treatment of macrophages with interferon (IFN)-γ inhibited HK-Mtb-induced SLPI expression. RAW264.7 cells stably expressing SLPI produced a reduced level of tumour necrosis factor (TNF) in response to HK-Mtb as compared with mock transfectants. Aerosol infection of mice with live M. tuberculosis resulted in an induction of SLPI gene expression in infected lungs. Macrophages from Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) - / - or MyD88 - / - mice responded to M. tuberculosis similarly to wild-type macrophages by exhibiting increased SLPI expression. In contrast, macrophages from TLR2 - / - mice were incapable of inducing SLPI in response to M. tuberculosis. This induction signifies the presence of a TLR2-dependent but MyD88-independent M. tuberculosis signalling pathway, suggesting involvement of adaptor protein(s) other than MyD88 in M. tuberculosis-mediated induction of SLPI.
Size-Selected (2−10 nm) Gold Nanoparticles for Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization of Peptides

In this report, first use of size-selected gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) as matrixes for matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) is described for peptides and proteins. In comparison with conventional organic acid MALDI matrixes, the optimum matrix-to-analyte ratio with AuNP matrixes is reduced by 10−14 orders of magnitude. Significant differences in the relative abundances of the ions observed in positive and negative mode MALDI-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOFMS) are revealed as the AuNP size distribution is decreased from 10 to 2 nm, whereby 2-nm AuNPs exhibit quantum confinement effects prevalent in quantum dots. AuNP matrixes allow for selective analyte ionization, as demonstrated in the selective MALDI-TOFMS of phosphotyrosine in a background of phosphoserine and phosphothreonine peptides.
Angiotensin II type-2 (AT2) receptor antagonism alters cardiovascular responses to static exercise and simultaneously changes glutamate/GABA levels within the ventrolateral medulla

Abstract Angiotensin II receptors (Ang II), classified into AT1 and AT2 subtypes, are located in different regions of the central nervous system, including the cardiovascular control centers in the medulla oblongata . We previously reported the role of Ang II AT1 receptors within the medulla on cardiovascular responses and glutamate/GABA neurotransmission during the exercise pressor reflex [Patel, D., Bohlke, M., Phattanarudee, S., Kabadi, S., Maher, T.J., Ally, A., 2008. Cardiovascular responses and neurotransmitter changes during blockade of angiotensin II receptors within the ventrolateral medulla. Neurosci. Res. 60 (3), 340–348]. In this study, we investigated the role of the AT2 receptor subtype within the ventrolateral medullary region (VLM) in modulating increases in mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) in response to static skeletal muscle contraction. Methods Using microdialysis methods in anesthetized rats, we administered AR-AT2 antagonists into the rostral (RVLM) and caudal (CVLM) VLM and determined its effects on cardiovascular responses and glutamate/GABA neurotransmission following muscle contraction. Bilateral microdialysis of a selective AT2 antagonist, PD 123319 (10 μM), for 30 min into the RVLM augmented MAP and HR responses during a static muscle contraction. Simultaneously, the drug increased glutamate and decreased GABA levels within the RVLM. After 60 min of discontinuation of the drug, only MAP and HR values but not the neurotransmitter levels in response to a muscle contraction returned to baseline. In contrast, bilateral microdialysis of the drug into the CVLM attenuated cardiovascular responses during a static muscle contraction, decreased glutamate and increased GABA. However, only the cardiovascular responses recovered after 60 min of discontinuation of the drug. These results demonstrate that AT2 within both RVLM and CVLM plays important differential roles in modulating neurotransmission and cardiovascular function during the exercise pressor reflex.
Distribution and innervation of hairs in the brood sac of the cockroach, Diploptera punctata (Eschscholtz) (Dictyoptera: Blaberidae)

Abstract In the brood sac of the viviparous cockroach, Diploptera punctata, 3 types of sensory hairs are distinguished on the lumenal surface. Two long slender types (30–80μ long) are confined to the posterior region, one on the ventral side, the other on the dorsal surface, near the bursa. A third type, short and stout (10μ long) is found over the entire ventral surface; these are exposed in increasing numbers as the broad sac is unfolded during gestation. The nerve cells associated with the 3 types of sensilla join a branch of ventral nerve 7 from the last abdominal ganglion. Preliminary recordings from this nerve indicate that an increased frequency of afferent impulses accompanies artificial stretching of the brood sac. Three types of non-sensory hairs occur on the posterior surface of the brood sac, one of which may aid in the orientation of the ootheca during oviposition.
In vivo molecular MRI of cell survival and teratoma formation following embryonic stem cell transplantation into the injured murine myocardium

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) have shown the potential to restore cardiac function after myocardial injury. Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIO) have been widely employed to label ESCs for cellular MRI. However, nonspecific intracellular accumulation of SPIO limits long-term in vivo assessment of the transplanted cells. To overcome this limitation, a novel reporter gene (RG) has been developed to express antigens on the ESC surface. By employing SPIO-conjugated monoclonal antibody against these antigens (SPIO-MAb), the viability of transplanted ESCs can be detected in vivo. This study aims to develop a new molecular MRI method to assess in vivo ESC viability, proliferation, and teratoma formation. The RG is designed to express 2 antigens (hemagglutinin A and myc) and luciferase on the ESC surface. The two antigens serve as the molecular targets for SPIO-MAb. The human and mouse ESCs were transduced with the RG (ESC-RGs) and transplanted into the peri-infarct area using the murine myocardial injury model. In vivo MRI was performed following serial intravenous administration of SPIO-MAb. Significant hypointense signal was generated from the viable and proliferating ESCs and subsequent teratoma. This novel molecular MRI technique enabled in vivo detection of early ESC-derived teratoma formation in the injured murine myocardium.
Morphology and structure of indium nitride films

Abstract Growth processes of semiconducting indium nitride prepared by radiofrequency sputtering of a metallic target in a reactive nitrogen plasma have been studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Contrary to previous reports progressive nitridation of the target surface is observed [1] and is found to control film morphology and growth rate. Samples prepared from fully nitrided targets are exclusively c-axis oriented and polycrystalline, while other wurtzite planes persist when target nitridation is incomplete. The target process involved here requires the partial pressure of atomic nitrogen to be 10−4 Torr in the RF discharge region close to the target. Surface migration processes are also dependent on the target state. These phenomena are analyzed within the context of the structure zone model [2] while considering a unified approach to crystal growth habit [3].
Tenacities of Plied Friction-spun, Rotor-spun, and Ring-spun Yarns

(1987). Tenacities of Plied Friction-spun, Rotor-spun, and Ring-spun Yarns. The Journal of The Textile Institute: Vol. 78, No. 2, pp. 140-142.
Biochemistry of sweet taste transduction

Abstract Recent biochemical and biophysical studies point to mechanistic hypotheses for sweet taste transduction involving either second messengers or stimulus-gated ion channels. Biochemical studies have shown that sweet tasting stimuli enhance the production of the second messenger, cyclic AMP, in a GTP-dependent manner in taste tissue homogenates. The cyclic AMP thus produced apparently stimulates a protein kinase A which may phosphorylate ion channels, leading ultimately to depolarization, an increase in intracellular calcium ion activity, and release of neurotransmitter. Recent studies show that some sweeteners also induce the production of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP 3 ). Other sweet transduction processes not associated with second messenger production may exist. For example, evidence for a stimulus-gated type ion channel for sweet taste can be inferred from ion transport studies on lingual epithelia and from psychophysics. A recent study demonstrated that certain amphiphilic sweeteners are capable of directly stimulating purified G proteins in an in vitro assay. Perhaps these and other amphiphilic intense sweeteners cross the plasma membrane and directly stimulate the G protein, inducing production of second messenger and bypassing the receptor. A number of sweeteners are capable of forming ion channels or of simply perturbing the membrane, actions which could operate during stimulation of the sweet receptor cell. This type of action could explain the relatively longer response times and lingering taste intensity associated with many amphiphilic sweeteners.
Phosphorus Availability from Phosphorus-Amended Water Treatment Residual

Abstract Water treatment residual (WTR) is a by-product generated from drinking water treatment facilities that often contains considerable amounts of aluminum (Al) or iron (Fe). Application of WTR to agricultural land can cause deficiencies in soil phosphorus (P). Amendment of WTR with P before application to agricultural land may eliminate the problem of P deficiencies in plant growth. The objective of this field study was to estimate the amount of P required to make WTR a supplier of P to plants. A Fe-based WTR that contained a cationic polymer was collected from a sand-bed lagoon of a Connecticut water treatment facility in the spring of 1996 and 1997. The WTR was amended with P at rates of 19.4, 38.8, 62.0, and 77.4 g P kg−1 WTR in 1996, and 0.0, 4.9, 9.7, 14.6, 19.4, 38.8, and 62.0 g P kg−1 WTR in 1997. Fertilizer P was applied at rates of 0–486 kg P ha−1 for the calculation of fertilizer P equivalents of the P-amended WTR. Sorghum-sudangrass (Sorghum sudanenese “Ciba FP-5”) was planted in 1996 and ...
Two maxima dependencies of isomerism contribution to heat capacity of N2O-HCN & CO-C2H2 systems in low temperature region

Temperature effects on heat capacity in four and three component systems N2O-HCN and CO-C2H2, respectively, were computed. Structural and vibrational parameters originated from the second order Moller-Plesset perturbation treatment with the 6-31++G** basis set while relative energies were of a still advanced nature. Isomerism contribution to heat capacity exhibits two temperature maxima at 43 and 205 or 15 and 83 K in N2O-HCN or CO-C2H2. The highest reported isomeric enhancement of the total heat capacity is about 27 %.
Trend in the Prevalence of the Metabolic Syndrome and Its Impact on Cardiovascular Disease Incidence: The San Antonio Heart Study

OBJECTIVE —With the current obesity epidemic, one would expect a prevalence increase in the metabolic syndrome. Therefore, in the San Antonio Heart Study, a population-based study with worsening obesity, we examined the metabolic syndrome and its effect on incident cardiovascular disease (CVD). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS —We enrolled 5,158 subjects in two cohorts: 1979–1982 and 1984–1988. We reexamined 3,682 (71.4%) subjects in 1987–1990 (cohort 1) and 1991–1996 (cohort 2) and assessed a 7.5-year incidence of CVD in 4,635 (90.0%) participants. We used the metabolic syndrome definition of the National Cholesterol Education Program–Adult Treatment Panel III. RESULTS —At baseline, the metabolic syndrome was less prevalent in cohort 1 than in cohort 2: in men, 20.4 vs. 29.3% ( P < 0.001); in women, 16.3 vs. 26.3% ( P < 0.001). The prevalence increased in men and women of both Mexican-American and non-Hispanic white ethnic groups between 1979–1982 and 1991–1996 ( P for trend <0.001 for each of the groups). There was an excess of incident CVD in cohort 2 relative to cohort 1 (odds ratio 1.37 [95% CI 1.02–1.84]) after adjustment for age, sex, ethnic origin, socioeconomic status, history of CVD, diabetes, total cholesterol, smoking, and family history of heart attack. Further adjustment for the metabolic syndrome reduced this difference (1.26 [0.93–1.71]) because the metabolic syndrome predicted incident CVD (1.58 [1.14–2.18]). CONCLUSIONS —In San Antonio, Texas, an increase in the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome between 1979–1982 and 1984–1988 contributes to explain a higher CVD incidence.
Single-source dual-energy spectral multidetector CT of pancreatic adenocarcinoma: optimization of energy level viewing significantly increases lesion contrast.

Aim To evaluate lesion contrast in pancreatic adenocarcinoma patients using spectral multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) analysis. Materials and methods The present institutional review board-approved, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA)-compliant retrospective study evaluated 64 consecutive adults with pancreatic adenocarcinoma examined using a standardized, multiphasic protocol on a single-source, dual-energy MDCT system. Pancreatic phase images (35 s) were acquired in dual-energy mode; unenhanced and portal venous phases used standard MDCT. Lesion contrast was evaluated on an independent workstation using dual-energy analysis software, comparing tumour to non-tumoural pancreas attenuation (HU) differences and tumour diameter at three energy levels: 70 keV; individual subject-optimized viewing energy level (based on the maximum contrast-to-noise ratio, CNR); and 45 keV. The image noise was measured for the same three energies. Differences in lesion contrast, diameter, and noise between the different energy levels were analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Quantitative differences in contrast gain between 70 keV and CNR-optimized viewing energies, and between CNR-optimized and 45 keV were compared using the paired t-test. Results Thirty-four women and 30 men (mean age 68 years) had a mean tumour diameter of 3.6 cm. The median optimized energy level was 50 keV (range 40–77). The mean ± SD lesion contrast values (non-tumoural pancreas – tumour attenuation) were: 57 ± 29, 115 ± 70, and 146 ± 74 HU (p = 0.0005); the lengths of the tumours were: 3.6, 3.3, and 3.1 cm, respectively (p = 0.026); and the contrast to noise ratios were: 24 ± 7, 39 ± 12, and 59 ± 17 (p = 0.0005) for 70 keV, the optimized energy level, and 45 keV, respectively. For individuals, the mean ± SD contrast gain from 70 keV to the optimized energy level was 59 ± 45 HU; and the mean ± SD contrast gain from the optimized energy level to 45 keV was 31 ± 25 HU (p = 0.007). Conclusion Significantly increased pancreatic lesion contrast was noted at lower viewing energies using spectral MDCT. Individual patient CNR-optimized energy level images have the potential to improve lesion conspicuity.
The Emergency Department as a Potential Intervention Recruitment Venue Among Vulnerable Rural Residents

Meeting the health care needs of rural residents is complicated by their substantial medical burdens that frequently outstrip patient and community resources. Nowhere is this more evident than in central Appalachia. Preventive procedures are often sacrificed as patients and providers attend to more pressing medical issues. We report the results of a pilot study designed to explore the need for and appropriateness of a potential intervention placed in an emergency department (ED), with the eventual goal of using the ED to link traditionally underserved patients to preventive services. We used a convenience sample of 49 ED patients to explore their characteristics and health needs and compare them with a sample of 120 case management clients participating in the Kentucky Homeplace Program (KHP), and a general sample of 3,165 Appalachian Kentuckians. The recruited ED patients had low socio-economic status, numerous health conditions, and several unmet health needs, including need for colorectal, cervical, and breast cancer screening. Compared to their KHP counterparts, more ED patients were uninsured. Participants in the ED and KHP groups had particularly low income, were less educated, and had less insurance coverage than an average Appalachian resident. Although case management services, including the KHP, have been successful in increasing access to health care by those in need, certain segments of the population remain underserved and continued to be missed by such programs. Our study suggests the need for and appropriateness of reaching out to such underserved populations in the ED and involving them into potential interventions designed to enhance preventive health services.
Polymer-ceramic composite that mimics bone formation

Research was done on a biomimetic building material with the unique properties of bone. Bone, as well as other natural materials such as shell, obtains its toughness and strength as a result of utilizing optimum materials, structural form and carefully controlling the process of bone formation. The organic fibers are made first and the matrix grown around them as opposed to conventional ceramics in which any fibers are added to the matrix. The research presented focuses on creating a polymer/cement composite which mimics bone by controlling the chemical makeup and sequencing of fabrication. The rules under which bone material naturally forms, albeit at a macroscale, are followed in order to match the intimate connection between material phases of bone. The research presented here uses cement and condensation polymers. The proposed design more carefully controls the formation process by utilizing the symbiotic relationship of the two material formation reactions. The inorganic phase formation is initiated and controlled by the organic phase formation as occurs in bone formation. Like bone this new material offers great opportunity for improved mechanical and chemical bonding.
Positive and Not-So-Positive Effects of Preparing Students to Pass Standards of Learning Tests in Virginia's High School Classrooms

Reports on a study of nine teachers who used various strategies to prepare high school students to pass the Virginia Standards of Learning tests. Researchers found positive aspects of “teaching to the test,” an instructional practice that critics of standards oppose. Suggests four methods teachers may use to minimize the negative effects of externally imposed tests.
Transference and covenant in pastoral care

Transference raises issues in pastoral care which covenant addresses. Through transference one tames the terrors of life and death. Transference also provides a basis for healing in pastoral relationships. Transference must be managed so that it does not result in idolatry but rather points the helpee beyond attachment to the minister and toward dependence upon God. Covenant provides theological guidance for transcending transference. This covenant involves the pastor-helpee relationship, commitment to God as a third party, and accountability to the covenant community.
Bulbus arteriosus of the bivalve mollusc Mercenaria mercenaria: Morphology and pharmacology

We examined the morphology and pharmacology of the bulbus arteriosus of the marine bivalve mollusc Mercenaria mercenaria. The bulbus arteriosus is an organ of unknown function associated with the posterior aorta and the ventricle. It is composed of connective tissue interspersed with muscle bundles. In contrast to the lumen of the ventricle, which has an extensive trabecular network, the lumen of the bulbus arteriosus has no trabeculae. No valve is present in the posterior aorta connecting the lumina of the ventricle and the bulbus arteriosus. Scattered neuronal profiles are present in the wall and the axonal processes contain vesicles that may contain neurosecretory products. We did not, however, find synapses or evidence of vesicular release into the lumen of the bulbus arteriosus. The bulbus arteriosus contains acetylcholine, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5HT), and the molluscan neuropeptides FMRFamide (phenyl-alanyl-methionyl-arginyl-phenylalaninylamide) and FLRFamide (phenylalanyl-leucinyl-arginyl-phenylalanylamide). The isolated bulbus arteriosus contracts tonically in response to mechanical stress and exposure to 5HT or FMRFamide, while acetylcholine relaxes it. We surmise that the bulbus arteriosus probably functions as a mechanism for regulating the relative amounts of hemolymph pumped into the anterior and posterior aortae by the ventricle and that the bulbus arteriosus may be a neurohemal site. J. Morphol. 250:185–195, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
An Aeroelastic Analysis of a Thin Flexible Membrane

utter onset. The purpose of this paper is to describe and begin addressing these issues. The paper includes a review of the literature associated with the structural analysis of membranes and membrane utter. Flow/structure analysis coupling and hypersonic ow solver options are also discussed. An approach is proposed for tackling this problem that starts with a relatively simple geometry and develops and evaluates analysis methods and procedures. This preliminary study considers a computationally manageable 2-dimensional problem. The membrane structural models used in the paper include a nonlinear nite-dierence model for static and dynamic analysis and a NASTRAN nite element membrane model for nonlinear static and linear normal modes analysis. Both structural models are coupled with a structured compressible ow solver for static aeroelastic analysis. For dynamic aeroelastic analyses, the NASTRAN normal modes are used in the structured compressible ow solver and 3rd order piston theories were used with the nite dierence membrane model to simulate utter onset. Results from the various static and dynamic aeroelastic analyses are compared.
Communication and the end of sovereignty

The prospect that technological and social innovation in the use of communication and information technologies are bringing about an end to sovereignty has been a source of optimism, pessimism and ambivalence. It has captured the popular imagination and it can be found in the anxieties of national leaders about the mingling and collision of cultures and cultural products within and across their borders, and about growing awareness that environmental threats bow to no flag. According to much of this discourse, national governments are becoming increasingly powerless in their battles against real or imagined plights of cultural imperialism (and sub‐imperialism, that is, cultural imperialism within states) and capital mobility, as well as in their efforts to effectively exercise political control through surveillance and censorship. The end of sovereignty is a theme in political discussions about new pressures brought on by global regimes of trade and investment, and by unprecedented levels of global criminal networks for drug trafficking, money laundering and trade in human flesh. Social movements and non‐governmental organizations (NGOs) have reflected this by recognizing the need to match the scale of the problems they confront with appropriately scaled collective action. This article examines the discourse about the end of sovereignty and therise of new institutions of global governance. Particular emphasis is given to how advancements in the means of communication have produced the ambivalent outcomes of threatening the democratic governance of sovereign states, and serving as foundations for the assertion of democratic rights and popular sovereignty on a global scale.
Percutaneous Biliary Endoscopy

The development of small-diameter flexible endoscopes has expanded the role of biliary endoscopy to include percutaneous interventions. Percutaneous biliary endoscopy is a technique that is easily learned. The equipment for percutaneous biliary endoscopy is readily available since most hospitals have an appropriate-sized choledochoscope and light source for intraoperative use. Therefore, the initial capital costs associated with flexible biliary endoscopy are minimal. Percutaneous biliary endoscopy in the interventional radiology suite is an ideal arrangement to facilitate a wide variety of biliary diagnostic and interventional procedures.
Cultural chameleons and iconoclasts: Assimilation and reactance to cultural cues in biculturals’ expressed personalities as a function of identity conflict

Abstract Bicultural individuals vary in the degree to which their two cultural identities are integrated versus conflicting—Bicultural Identity Integration (BII). Past research on attribution biases finds that BII influences the way that biculturals shift in response to cultural primes: integrated biculturals shift assimilatively, whereas conflicted biculturals shift contrastively. Proposing that this reflects assimilation versus reactance responses, we tested whether it extends to shifts in self-perceived personality. In two experiments with Asian–American participants, we found that BII influences the direction of cultural priming effects (assimilation versus contrast) on the personality dimensions of need for uniqueness (Experiment 1) and extraversion (Experiment 2). As hypothesized, high BIIs shifted in a culturally assimilative direction, perceiving the self as more uniqueness-seeking and extraverted following American versus Asian priming, whereas low BIIs shifted in the reverse direction. Implications for research on bicultural identity, priming, personality, organizational and consumer behavior are discussed.
Effect of Various Media and Incubation Conditions on Recovery of Inoculated Salmonella from Poultry Feed

Samples of commercially pelleted poultry feed (30 g) were inoculated with nalidixic acid-resistant marker strains of Salmonella heidelberg or S. montevideo at levels of 1 (low), 20 (medium), or 40 (high) cells/g of feed, then 100 ml of either a nonselective preenrichment medium (lactose broth) or a selective enrichment medium [selenite cystine (SC) or tetrathionate brilliant green (TT) broth] was added and incubated at either 37 or 43 C for 24 or 48 hr in different experiments. Four selective plating media [MacConkey with 100 ppm nalidixic acid, brilliant green (BG) sulfa, modified BG, bismuth sulfite] were then streaked. MacConkey agar with nalidixic acid served as a control to which the other three plating media were compared. After 24 hr incubation at 37 C, colonies with characteristics typical of Salmonella were selected from the plates and examined biochemically and serologically to determine if they were the marker organism. In this study, preenrichment was counterproductive, because the marker organisms were recovered much more often with direct enrichment in SC or TT broth than with reenrichment in lactose broth. The TT broth produced 135 positive recoveries, whereas only 88 positive recoveries were made with SC. No differences were observed between 37 and 43 C or 24 and 48 hr incubation of the selective enrichment media. Overall efficiency of the plating media for Salmonella recovery from feed, when compared to the control (MacConkey), was BG sulfa, 65%;modified BG, 64%; and bismuth sulfite, 40%. The most effective enrichment broth-plating medium combination was TT-BG sulfa, yielding 86% positive recoveries when compared to the control.
γ -Frames, GΓ-Algebras and Measurable Spaces

The category of γ -Frm of γ-frames, which is isomorphic to the category GΓ-Alg of \(\mathbb D\)-algebras satisfying certain identities, and the category γ -Top of γ-topological spaces provide the background for the category γ -Mbl of γ-measurable spaces. As in the category of frames, the functor \(\Omega_\gamma: \gamma {\text{ - }}Top \ni (X,\Omega_X) \mapsto \Omega_\S \in \gamma {\text{ - }}Frm^{op}\) has a right adjoint \(Pt_\gamma: G\Gamma {\text{ - }}Alg^{op} \to \gamma {\text{ - }}Top\).
Successful Surgical Repair of Common Pulmonary Vein Atresia in a Newborn

A 7-hour-old boy underwent an emergency operation with an anticipated diagnosis of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection. The precise diagnosis of common pulmonary vein atresia (CPVA) was made during the operation. A side-to-side anastomosis between the common pulmonary venous chamber and the left atrium was performed. All procedures were successfully carried out on the beating heart under the cardiopulmonary bypass. A tentative diagnosis of CPVA should always be borne in minds in neonates with clinical conditions such as deep cyanosis unresponsive to the oxygen therapy, stubborn acidosis, severe pulmonary venous congestion, and rapid deterioration. The corrective repair of CPVA with the heart beating appears to be the procedure of choice in the setting of seriously damaged myocardium of the immature heart. To the best of our knowledge, this is the youngest survivor of the corrective surgery for CPVA and operation at time of diagnosis is the important principle.
Retinitis Punctata Albescens in a Negro Child Studied With Fluorescein Angiography

A report of a 4-year-old Negro child with retinitis punctata albescens is presented. The results of ophthalmoscopy, electroretinography, and psychophysical testing are described. The dot-like lesions have a distinctive appearance on fluorescein angiography.
Taxometric Analysis: An Empirically Grounded Approach to Implementing the Method

Whether individual differences are treated as categorical or continuous has consequences for theory, assessment, classification, and research in criminal justice. Paul Meehl's (1995) taxometric method allows investigators to test between these two competing structural models. This article provides an overview of the method's inferential framework and data-analytic procedures. Because guidelines for implementing taxometric analyses and interpreting their results have received little research attention, investigators are encouraged to adopt an empirically grounded approach to taxometric analysis rather than following conventions or relying on personal opinion. The guidance afforded by Monte Carlo studies, including the two reported here, can be supplemented by simulating comparison data. This empirically grounded approach, described and illustrated below, helps to implement the taxometric method effectively and to draw valid conclusions.
Four-Wave Mixing And Scanning Tunneling Microscopy Of Semiconductor Clusters

Semiconductor structures in lower dimensions, dubbed quantum dots, exhibit novel properties which result from size quantization of their charge carriers, as well as from their large surface-to-volume ratio. Optical measurements, combined with scanning tunneling microscopy, can provide the detailed information required to model the nonlinear optical response of these clusters.
Characterization of heme orientational disorder in myoglobin by proton nuclear Overhauser effects.

Abstract Freshly reconstituted sperm whale myoglobin is a mixture of two components distinguishable by proton nuclear magnetic resonance. The two species are interconvertible and the equilibrium composition is about 90% of one form, the form studied by X-ray methods. We have used the nuclear Overhauser effect to characterize the other (minor) component in its metcyano complex. Whereas in the major form there is dipolar contact between residue 99 and the heme pyrrole ring III, in the minor form the same residue is in contact with pyrrole IV, related to ring III by a 180° rotation about the α-γ meso axis. This interaction proves the validity of the heme rotational disorder proposition and confirms that the apoprotein does not discriminate between the two sides of the heme in the rapid insertion process. It is proposed that the differences in nuclear Overhauser effect between the protein matrix and the heme moiety can be used to define qualitatively the structural consequences of this heterogeneity. The altered heme-protein contacts could be related to the enhanced oxygen affinity in the minor form.
Camera-based 10KHz distance gage

This paper describes preliminary development of a high-speed distance gage for manufacturing process control. The objective of the system was to measure and record the distance from a tool/processing tip to the processed surface at a frequency of 10 Kilohertz with minimal sensitivity of the device to tilt or curvature of the processed surface. This speed is not achievable by use of a standard camera system or by typical position sensitive detectors (PSDs) due to data processing and optical limitations. The proposed solution comprises a linescan camera system and a laser light source positioned diagonally and about the nominal area of interest. In this setup, the line segment, which defines the range of locations of the laser spot, is imaged onto the linescan sensor. The location of the image of the spot is proportional to the location of the spot on the target object. The height relative to a reference tool position is then calculated geometrically. This setup enables flexible analysis of spot location where a multi-layered partly transparent surface is inspected, allows removal of stray light reflections and handles different types of surface finish. A real-time image analysis is enabled through the use of embedded technology.
Symptoms of clinically silent intracranial mass lesions precipitated by treatment with nifedipine

The case of a patient who manifested signs and symptoms of previously unsuspected intracranial mass lesions after initiation of nifedipine therapy for control of reflex sympathetic dystrophy is presented. We speculate that the cerebral vasodilatory effects of nifedipine led to increased intracranial pressure.
Measurement and prediction of the short-term response of soft tissue sarcomas to chemotherapy.

Background. Preoperative chemotherapy has been advocated for the treatment of soft tissue sarcomas, yet there is little information about how these tumors respond pathologically to therapy or whether tumor response can be predicted from a pretreatment biopsy. Methods. Biopsy was done of 25 intermediate- or high-grade soft tissue sarcomas before they were treated with three cycles of doxorubicin and cisplatin and resected. The authors compared the pathologic features of the treated tumors with clinical and radiologic evidence of response to identify the pathologic features that best reflected chemotherapeutic effect. They analyzed the pretreatment biopsy specimens by light microscopic study and flow cytometry to identify parameters that predict short-term response to chemotherapy. Results. In the treated tumors, the clearest indicator of early chemotherapeutic effect was the percentage of the resected mass composed of viable neoplasm. Eleven of 25 resection specimens contained less than 15% viable neoplasm (patients with pathologic response); 9 of these had 5% or less. Flow cytometric estimates of the proliferative rate in the initial biopsy specimen predicted early chemotherapeutic effect; 7 of 10 tumors with S-phase fractions (SPF) greater than 6% responded pathologically, whereas only 3 of 12 tumors with lower SPF responded (P = 0.041). Initial tumor grade, cell type, percent tumor necrosis, mitotic rate, cellularity, and ploidy did not predict chemotherapy response. Conclusion. These results indicate that soft tissue sarcomas often respond dramatically to chemotherapy, that the amount of residual viable sarcoma is an indicator of short-term effect, and that flow cytometric estimates of cell proliferation predict early response to chemotherapy.
Genomic assays for Epstein–Barr virus-positive gastric adenocarcinoma

A small set of gastric adenocarcinomas (9%) harbor Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) DNA within malignant cells, and the virus is not an innocent bystander but rather is intimately linked to pathogenesis and tumor maintenance. Evidence comes from unique genomic features of host DNA, mRNA, microRNA and CpG methylation profiles as revealed by recent comprehensive genomic analysis by The Cancer Genome Atlas Network. Their data show that gastric cancer is not one disease but rather comprises four major classes: EBV-positive, microsatellite instability (MSI), genomically stable and chromosome instability. The EBV-positive class has even more marked CpG methylation than does the MSI class, and viral cancers have a unique pattern of methylation linked to the downregulation of CDKN2A (p16) but not MLH1. EBV-positive cancers often have mutated PIK3CA and ARID1A and an amplified 9p24.1 locus linked to overexpression of JAK2, CD274 (PD-L1) and PDCD1LG2 (PD-L2). Multiple noncoding viral RNAs are highly expressed. Patients who fail standard therapy may qualify for enrollment in clinical trials targeting cancer-related human gene pathways or promoting destruction of infected cells through lytic induction of EBV genes. Genomic tests such as the GastroGenus Gastric Cancer Classifier are available to identify actionable variants in formalin-fixed cancer tissue of affected patients.
Neuroendocrine Tumors of the Kidney: A Single Institution Experience

Abstract Background Renal NETs, comprised of carcinoid tumors and small cell carcinomas, are a rare group of neoplasms. The rarity of these tumors pose a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Our purpose was to characterize the cases treated at a tertiary cancer center and to evaluate patient outcomes with the available treatment modalities. Patients and Methods This was a retrospective study of patients with renal NETs seen at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center between January 1, 2001, and January 1, 2011. Patient and tumor data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. Results Three cases of carcinoid tumors and 6 cases of small cell carcinoma were identified. The median age at diagnosis was 53 years for patients with carcinoid and 65 years for patients with small cell carcinoma. The most common presenting symptoms were back pain, flank pain, and hematuria. The morphological appearance of the tumor cells and their immunohistochemical reactivity for neuroendocrine markers and cytokeratin helped establish the diagnosis. Nephrectomy was the mainstay of treatment for carcinoid tumors, yielding good long-term results, even in the presence of metastases. Surgery and chemotherapy were used for small cell carcinoma of the kidney. The median overall survival for patients with small cell carcinoma of the kidney was 17.3 months. Conclusion Renal carcinoid tumors are indolent and are associated with prolonged survival, and small cell carcinomas of the kidney are aggressive tumors with relatively short overall survival. Although palliative in nature, cytotoxic chemotherapy is the mainstay of therapy and is best given before surgery.
Iatrogenic contributions to cervical adjacent segment pathology: review article.

Background Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is widely accepted as a predictably excellent procedure. On the other hand, adjacent level pathology following ACDF is a well-known phenomenon which undercuts surgical outcome. However, the extent to which ACDF accelerates this phenomenon in the naturally degenerating cervical spine is still to be understood.
Culturing Adult Stem Cells from Mouse Small Intestinal Crypts

In recent years, the study of primary cells in culture has evolved from an extraphysiological, two-dimensional platform to novel, three-dimensional platforms in which the addition of matrix components and/or supporting cells provide an ex vivo niche. Such studies have provided the basis on which to study more advanced physiological processes in detail, including multilayered, long-term cultures, epithelial-stromal interactions, and stem cell behaviors that more closely recapitulate normal morphology than two-dimensional culture. Various techniques for three-dimensional organotypic culture and crypt culture of primary cells from mouse and human small intestine and colon have been described. These methods have allowed for the study of specific stem cell characteristics, including survival, self-renewal, and long-term growth in culture, as well as the ability to propagate all the appropriate progenitor and postmitotic lineages. These assays have become a widely accepted functional measure of "stemness" and, in combination with lineage-tracing experiments in various genetically engineered mouse models, have been critical in the identification of specific markers of intestinal stem cells. In this protocol we draw upon recently described methods for the isolation and culture of mouse small intestinal enterospheres/enteroids from isolated crypts and/or single cells. Cultures of murine colon epithelium, as well as human small intestine and colon, require additional growth factors not discussed here. The description provided here represents current knowledge, and it is possible, if not likely, that modifications in the future will emerge.
Optimization Based Algorithms for Finding Minimal Cost Ring Covers in Survivable Networks

Designing low cost SONET networks composed of self-healing rings is an important problem facing the providers of broadband services. This manuscript demonstrates how optimization technology coupled with the highly efficient CPLEX software system can be used to help solve this important problem. For the first time, provable optimal designs are presented for several small networks which appear in the literature. In an empirical analysis, we demonstrate how this same methodology can be used to find good (but not provably optimal) designs for large test cases.
Charge properties in glass-electrode resistive plate counters

Abstract We have measured the charge response to single cosmic-ray muons passing through a glass-electrode resistive plate counter under several different operating conditions. Under appropriate conditions, we find that the width of the charge response is better than measured using streamer tubes. The best observed response is approximately Gaussian with FWHM peak = 0.24 with only a small high-charge tail. A well-timed, narrow charge integration gate is essential to remove undesired charge spreading effects from afterpulsing.
Wrongdoing, Whistle-Blowing, and Retaliation in the U.S. Government: What Have Researchers Learned From the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) Survey Results?

Much of the unethical behavior occurring in modern organizations that comes to light is first identified and reported by insiders: organization members who are willing to blow the whistle. Data fro...
Childhood Cancer Survivors: Transition to Adult-Focused Risk-Based Care

BACKGROUND: The issues involved in transition from pediatric cancer care to adult-focused care differ from those in other childhood diseases, because malignant disease itself is no longer a problem. However, the potential for fatal outcome places a greater dependence on the pediatric oncology setting and delays this transition process, often beyond adolescence. Adverse long-term physical and psychological effects accompany survival for many of the cured children, and because these effects may not become manifest until adulthood, programs that support transition for childhood cancer survivors require the expertise of many subspecialists. OBJECTIVES: To describe the issues and barriers to successful transition programs for childhood cancer survivors when they are ready for adult-focused care. METHODS: We reviewed the literature and discuss the barriers to transition at the survivor, provider, and health care system levels for survivors of childhood cancer. We also critically assess the elements of successful transition programs. RESULTS: Education of survivors and providers regarding long-term health risks is necessary for a successful transition. This process should be gradual to address the educational needs of survivors, families, and health care professionals, determine “readiness” for transition, and address financial and insurance concerns. Because little is known regarding adverse long-term health-related sequelae beyond the fourth decade of life, research is needed to quantify and reduce the consequences of these morbidities. CONCLUSIONS: Transition programs for pediatric cancer survivors require experts who are knowledgeable regarding the long-term follow-up needs of childhood cancer survivors and who can provide a bridge between pediatric oncology and primary care that is risk based.
Optimal bead orientation of 3D shell/plate structures

In this paper, the optimal bead orientation problem of 3D shell/plate structures is investigated for both static and dynamic cases. Using a bending equivalent orthotropic shell design cell model, the optimal bead orientation problem is converted to an optimal orientation problem of bending equivalent orthotropic materials, and it is solved by a new energy based method. In the energy based method, the dependency of strain and stress fields on material orientation is explored by introducing an energy factor in the inclusion model. From the derivations, the strain- and stress-based methods are recovered and their limitations are discussed. Three examples are presented to show the applications of the proposed method.
Preventing Segregation during Centrifugal Consolidation of Particulate Suspensions: Particle Drafting

Dilute, dispersed, multicomponent suspensions containing Ce-ZrO{sub 2}, Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}, and varying Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-platelet contents were centrifugally consolidated. Despite the favorable conditions for segregation, phase and size segregation did not occur in the highest Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-platelet content suspension. The suspension properties did not consist of agglomeration, high solids fractions, or high suspension viscosities typically attributed with segregation prevention. Thus, a new mechanism is suggested, considering the effects of hydrodynamic particle interactions (interference drag or drafting) on particle arrangement during consolidation. Particle drafting is proposed and supported as a mechanism for preventing segregation, and the importance of hydrodynamic particle interactions in ceramic processing is discussed.
Examination for the Certification of Teachers of Foreign Languages in the State of Connecticut

Author's Summary.— The state examination established in 1940 in Connecticut for the certification of high school teachers of foreign languages consists of three parts: the first deals with the spoken language; the second with the written language; the third with civilization and literature.