cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cutis verticis gyrata in men affected by HIV-related lipodystrophy

We report the occurrence of cutis verticis gyrata (CVG), a disfiguring dermatological condition, in four patients with HIV-related lipodystrophy (HIVLD). These four patients had abnormal metabolic and hormonal lab values which we compare with metabolic and hormonal perturbations cited in previous HIVLD cohorts. In addition, we describe the sole use of poly-L-lactic acid as a potential treatment for decreasing the appearance of CVG-associated ridges.
Singular surfaces in multi-agent connectivity maintenance games

In this paper, we analyze a connectivity maintenance problem that arises when two mobile autonomous agents navigate in an environment containing obstacles. Using the Rician fading model for the communication channel, we address the problem for the case when the motion strategies for one of the agents is adversarial in nature. We investigate a specific kind of singular surface that appears in the solution to the underlying pursuit-evasion game, namely the dispersal surface. We present construction of the projection of several dispersal surfaces for various obstacle geometries by fixing the initial position of the evader. Finally, we present numerical simulations for specific environments containing obstacles
Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy of nitroxide-labeled calmodulin.

Calmodulin (CaM) is a highly conserved calcium-binding protein consisting of two homologous domains, each of which contains two EF-hands, that is known to bind well over 300 proteins and peptides. In most cases the (Ca2+)4-form of CaM leads to the activation of a key regulatory enzyme or protein in a myriad of biological processes. Using the nitroxide spin-labeling reagent, 3-(2-iodoacetamido)-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-1-pyrrolidinyl oxyl, bovine brain CaM was modified at 2–3 methionines with retention of activity as judged by the activation of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase. X-band electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy was used to measure the spectral changes upon addition of Ca2+ to the apo-form of spin-labeled protein. A significant loss of spectral intensity, arising primarily from reductions in the heights of the low, intermediate, and high field peaks, accompanied Ca2+ binding. The midpoint of the Ca2+-mediated transition determined by EPR occurred at a higher Ca2+ concentration than that measured with circular dichroic spectroscopy and enzyme activation. Recent data have indicated that the transition from the apo-state of CaM to the fully saturated form, [(Ca2+)4-CaM], contains a compact intermediate corresponding to [(Ca2+)2-CaM], and the present results suggest that the spin probes are reporting on Ca2+ binding to the last two sites in the N-terminal domain, i.e. for the [(Ca2+)2-CaM] → [(Ca2+)4-CaM] transition in which the compact structure becomes more extended. EPR of CaM, spin-labeled at methionines, offers a different approach for studying Ca2+-mediated conformational changes and may emerge as a useful technique for monitoring interactions with target proteins.
Fibulin-2 exhibits high degree of variability, but no structural changes concordant with abdominal aortic aneurysms

We used conformation sensitive gel electrophoresis and direct sequencing of PCR products to screen for mutations in the cDNA for fibulin-2, an extracellular matrix protein, from 11 patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms and two controls. When compared with the published reference sequence, a total of 14 single-base sequence variations were detected. Seven of the changes were neutral in that they did not result in an amino acid substitution. There were five missense changes at sites not conserved between human and mouse, and two missense changes at sites conserved between human and mouse. All but two of the sequence variants studied were also present in an additional set of 102 control alleles analyzed. One of these two changes was a missense mutation, but it did not segregate with abdominal aortic aneurysms in the family, whilst the other change was neutral. In conclusion, fibulin-2 has a large number of sequence variations in comparison with our previous analyses of type III collagen, and these variations will be useful in association studies. There was an excellent overall agreement between direct sequencing of PCR-products and conformation sensitive gel electrophoresis.
INFLUENCE OF TURBULENCE ON THE TRANSFER OF HEAT FROM PLATES WITH AND WITHOUT A PRESSURE GRADIENT

Influence of free stream turbulence on the coefficient of heat transfer from plates at zero incidence, with and without a pressure gradient
Comparative Value of Napier and Sudan Grass When Used as Soiling Crops for Dairy Cows

Summary In four experiments comparing green Sudan with green Napier grass as a soiling crop fed to dairy cows, the former proved superior in each test on the basis of quantity of milk produced. Milk production averaged 8.7 per cent higher, and roughage consumption 7.2 per cent higher when Sudan grass was fed. The higher production on Sudan grass resulted from a greater nutrient intake because of greater palatability and higher nutritive value. Butter-fat tests were slightly higher when Napier grass was fed. Analyses of the grasses show that the Sudan grass was higher in protein, nitrogen-free extract, and total nutrients than Napier grass.
How Phenol and α-Tocopherol React with Ambient Ozone at Gas/Liquid Interfaces

The exceptional ability of alpha-tocopherol (alpha-TOH) for scavenging free radicals is believed to also underlie its protective functions in respiratory epithelia. Phenols, however, can scavenge other reactive species. Herein, we report that alpha-TOH/alpha-TO(-) reacts with closed-shell O(3)(g) on the surface of inert solvent microdroplets in or = 2)(-) homologues are unreactive toward O(3)(g) and split CO(2) instead. On this basis, alpha-TO-O(-) is assigned to a chroman-6-ol (4a, 8a)-ene oxide, alpha-TO-O(2)(-) to an endoperoxide, and alpha-TO-O(3)(-) to a secondary ozonide. The atmospheric degradation of the substituted phenols detected in combustion emissions is therefore expected to produce related oxidants on the aerosol particles present in the air we breathe.
Neutrophil and Platelet Activity and Quantification Following Delayed tPA Therapy in a Rabbit Model of Thromboembolic Stroke.

Although there is considerable interest in the role of neutrophils and platelets in acute cerebral ischemiareperfusion, there are very little data related to the effect of systemic thrombolytic therapy on these blood elements. In the present study a rabbit model was used to examine the effects of cerebral ischemia, tissue-plasminogen activator therapy, or both on neutrophil and platelet peripheral counts and activity, the latter studied by stimulated neutrophil and platelet impedance aggregation and neutrophil oxygen-free radical chemiluminescence. New Zealand white rabbits (n=25) were randomized to receive either tissue-plasminogen activator (6.3 mg/kg IV; 20% bolus, remainder as a 2-hour infusion) or vehicle (0.9% saline) 3 hours following either autologous clot embolization or sham carotid artery isolation. Thus, four groups were examined: sham (n=4), tPA only (n=4), stroke only (n=8), and stroke plus tPA (n=9). Two hours after completion of thrombolytic therapy or vehicle infusion, the experiments were terminated, that is, 7 hours following autologous clot embolization or sham instrumentation. Blood was sampled from the thoracic aorta, and neutrophil and platelet peripheral counts and activity were determined prior to embolization and 0.5, 2.0, 4.0, and 7.0 hours following autologous clot embolization. No significant difference in platelet counts, either over time or between groups, was noted. In contrast to the platelet counts, the neutrophil count significantly increased over time, rising approximately 2.5-fold from baseline in all four groups (p<0.001). No significant increase in neutrophil accumulation (myeloperoxidase assay; 107 PMNs/g tissue; mean ± SEM) was noted within infarcted regions of either the stroke (1.26±0.07; n=5) or stroke plus tissue-plasminogen activator (1.26±0.09; n=5) groups when compared to either viable brain regions within the ischemic hemisphere (1.29±0.03; n=4) or in sham controls (1.36±0.35; n=4). Neutrophil activity (aggregation, oxygen-free radical release) in both groups undergoing autologous clot embolization demonstrated a trend toward higher values when compared to the two sham-operated groups. Tissue-plasminogen activator administration did not significantly affect ex vivo neutrophil activity. In contrast, platelet aggregation was significantly reduced by the administration of tPA with (p=0.001) or without (p<0.01) autologous clot embolization. Thus, in the present rabbit model platelet but not neutrophil activity is modulated by the administration of tissue-plasminogen activator, while autologous clot embolization results in a trend toward acute neutrophil activation.
An improved method for covalently conjugating morpholino oligomers to antitumor antibodies.

Whether for conventional pretargeting, amplification pretargeting or affinity enhancement pretargeting, it will be necessary to conjugate an anti-tumor antibody as the first injectate. This laboratory is investigating phosphorodiamidate morpholinos (MORFs) for pretargeting and, accordingly, we are examining methods of attaching MORFs to anti-tumor antibodies that provide at least one group per molecule (gpm) without adversely influencing antibody properties. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the commercial Hydralink™ for the conjugation of the anti-CEA MN14 antibody with an 18 mer amine-derivitized MORF. Methods—The conjugation was approached in both directions by first reacting MN14 with the NHS derivatives of 4-hydrozinonicotinate acetone hydrazone (SANH) or 4- formylbenzoate (SFB) and then combined with MORF previously reacted with SFB or SANH to yield MN14 (SANH)MORF and MN14 (SFB)-MORF respectively. The storage stability, immunoreactive fraction and the biodistribution in normal mice were compared for both conjugates. Thereafter, MN14 (SANH)MORF was used in a pretargeting study in tumored nude mice and the results compared to that obtained historically with MN14-MORF prepared by carbodiimide (EDC) coupling. Results—Both new methods of conjugation provided between 1 and 2 gpm compared to 0.2 achieved previously by EDC. Furthermore, by repeat SE HPLC with and without CEA, both showed unimpaired immunoreactive fraction. MN14 (SANH)-MORF tolerated long-term storage best. More importantly, when labeled by hybridization with 99m Tc-labeled complementary MORF ( 99m TccMORF), the biodistribution of MN14 (SANH)-MORF was more favorable than that of MN14 (SFB)-MORF in normal mice with lower liver (5.7 vs 9.4 %ID/g at 18 h) and spleen (3.5 vs. 8.4 % ID/g) accumulations and higher blood levels (4.8 vs. 3.4 %ID/g). Accordingly, only MN14 (SANH)MORF was used in a pretargeting study in tumored mice. When targeted with 99m Tc -cMORF and at 2 days post injection of antibody-MORF, the results obtained with 6 μg of antibody prepared in this way were essentially identical to that obtained previously with 30 μg of antibody prepared via EDC. Conclusions—Hydralink was used successfully to conjugate MORF to MN14 at higher gpm than that achieved earlier and without obvious compromise of properties. Using MN14 (SANH)-MORF, the influence of the higher gpm on pretargeting permitted lowering the dosages of MN14 administered and may permit administering higher levels of radioactivity in connection with therapy.
Spectroscopic signature of magnetic bistability in Mn 2 O - anions and its implications for piezomagnetism at the nanoscale

A synergistic study, using gradient corrected density functional theory and photoelectron spectroscopy, shows that the presence of oxygen can fundamentally alter the interaction between two Mn atoms. The normally weak interaction between two Mn atoms exhibits strong bonding when an oxygen atom is added to form ${\mathrm{Mn}}_{2}\mathrm{O}.$ This allows the atomiclike magnetic moments of each Mn atom to couple either ferromagnetically or antiferromagnetically depending on whether ${\mathrm{Mn}}_{2}\mathrm{O}$ is anionic or neutral. Furthermore, the ${\mathrm{Mn}}_{2}{\mathrm{O}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ anion is found to possess an antiferromagnetic isomer that lies only 0.01 eV above its nearly degenerate ferromagnetic ground state. The possibility of exploiting this magnetic bistability in the design of nanoscale piezomagnetic materials is discussed.
Global CO2 emissions trading: Early lessons from the U.S. acid rain program

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is implementing a program of SO2 emission allowance trading as part of the Acid Rain Program authorized by the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990. Electric utilities may use allowance trading as part of their compliance strategy to meet SO2 emission reduction requirements, which begin in 1995. In the interest of a free market in emission credits, some utilities began trading in 1992. A strict but essential requirement for continuous-emissions monitoring was developed to support the trading program. This program is being widely watched and will be evaluated as part of an effort to determine if market concepts can be successfully extended to other environmental issues. One such issue is greenhouse gas emissions and their link with global warming and climate change. This paper focuses on the early lessons learned, issues, and challenges involved in going from a domestic electric utility SO2 emissions trading program to inter-industry, inter-gas and international as well as national emissions trading and offsets programs. Prominent among these issues are CO2 allowance allocations, equity, emissions monitoring, enforcement, and cost-effectiveness.
Freeze‐Thaw Stability and Refrigerated‐Storage Retrogradation of Starches

Etude, par calorimetrie differentielle a balayage, de toute une serie d'amidons natifs ou modifies soumis ou non a 10 cycles de congelation-decongelation ou a un entreposage a 4 degres C pendant 1 semaine
On the Stability of the Cross-Section of Expected Stock Returns in the Cross-Section: Understanding the Curious Role of Share Turnover

In this paper, we shed further light on cross-sectional predictors of stock return performance. Specifically, we explore whether the cross-section of expected stock returns is robust within stock groups sorted by past monthly return. We find that the book/market and momentum effects are remarkably robust to sorting on past returns. However, share turnover is negatively related to future returns for stocks with abnormally low stock price performance in the recent past, but postively related to returns for well-performing stocks. This casts doubt on the use of turnover as a liquidity proxy, but is consistent with turnover being a proxy for momentum trading which pushes prices in the direction of past price movements. Our results are robust to both NYSE/AMEX and Nasdaq stocks, and also robust to stratifying the sample by time period.
Metabolism of ethyl acetate in the rat: Hydrolysis to ethyl alcohol in vitro and in vivo

Abstract Because of the abundance of nonspecific esterases, one might expect the common solvent ethyl acetate (EtAc) to be hydrolyzed to ethyl alcohol (EtOH) in vivo. It would then be possible to demonstrate EtOH accumulation following exposure to EtAc vapor. Preliminary studies showed that rat blood incubated at 37°C does hydrolyze EtAc to EtOH, with a half-time of approximately 65 min. Analyses were done by gas chromatography. To study this reaction in vivo, rats were anesthetized with pentobarbital, and cannulae were inserted into the femoral arteries. EtAc was injected ip as a 25% ( v v ) solution in corn oil (1.6 g/kg) and blood samples were drawn periodically. Hydrolysis was very rapid in vivo, with a half-time estimated at 5–10 min. Inhalation studies were then carried out by exposing anesthetized rats to several concentrations of EtAc vapor via an endotracheal tube. When EtAc concentrations were increased above 2000 ppm, EtAc absorption exceeded EtOH oxidation, leading to an accumulation of EtOH in the blood. Although blood EtOH concentrations increased steadily to over 0.10 g/100 ml in 5 hr, EtAc remained consistently below 0.01 g/100 ml and did not change throughout the course of the experiment, again indicating rapid hydrolysis. The data indicate that EtOH will accumulate during exposure to EtAc if the ambient concentration of EtAc is sufficiently high.
Investigation of a hypersonic crossing shock wave/turbulent boundary layer interaction

A combined theoretical and experimental study is presented for the interaction between crossing shock waves generated by (10 deg, 10 deg) sharp fins and a flat plate turbulent boundary layer at Mach 8.3. The theoretical model is the full 3D mean compressible Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations incorporating the algebraic turbulent eddy viscosity model of Baldwin and Lomax (1978). A grid refinement study indicated that adequate resolution of the flow field has been achieved. Computed results agree well with experiment for surface pressure and surface flow patterns and for pitot pressure and yaw angle profiles in the flow field. The computations, however, significantly overpredict surface heat transfer. Analysis of the computed flow field results indicates the formation of complex streamline and wave structures within the interaction region.
Detection properties of irradiated ostrich meat by DNA comet assay and radiation-induced hydrocarbons

: Detection of irradiated ostrich meat with doses of 1 to 10 kGy using the DNA comet assay and hydrocarbon determinations by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was investigated. The irradiated ostrich meat showed comets with long tails whereas nonirradiated controls showed intact cells only slight comets. Concentrations of radiation-induced hydrocarbons increased with irradiation dose. Radiation-induced hydrocarbons in ostrich meat were detected at doses of 1 kGy or more; however, they were not detected in nonirradiated controls. The prominent radiation-induced hydrocarbons included 14:1, 15:0, 16:2, 16:3, 17:1, and 17:2, with 16:2 the most abundant.
MORMON VALUES AND THE UTAH ENVIRONMENT

Although there has been little if any discussion of Mormon environmentalism outside the tradition, it is increasingly apparent that such an ethic does exist - though whether this ethic is with or against the current of formal LDS teaching is less clear. This article provides an overview of contemporary Mormon ecological thought and its roots within the LDS tradition, and highlights some of the tensions connected with environmental issues within the Mormon community today in Utah and elsewhere.
Characterization of downstream elements in a Raf-1 pathway.

Abstract At the poles of the Drosophila embryo, cell fate is established by a pathway that begins with the activation of a membrane-associated tyrosine kinase (the torso gene product); this then leads to activation of a serine/threonine kinase (Drosophila Raf-1). Activated Raf-1 then leads, by an undefined mechanism, to the transcriptional activation of the tailless (tll) gene; the tll gene product, itself a transcription factor, subsequently regulates the expression of an array of target genes. To further define this pathway, we have utilized sequence comparison between Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila virilis to identify conserved elements in the tll promoter region. As assessed by DNase I footprinting and promoter dissection experiments, two of these elements are potential regulatory targets of Raf-1-activated transcription factors. Sequence comparison also reveals that the unique residues in the DNA-binding domain of the tll protein, the next component in the pathway, are conserved. One of these residues, the alanine after the last cysteine in the first zinc finger, may be responsible for part of the difference between the tll protein DNA binding site and the closely related half-site of the retinoid/estrogen receptors. Consistent with the rapid turnover of the tll protein, it contains a PEST sequence (rich in proline, glutamate and aspartate, serine, and threonine) that is also conserved.
Nucleotide sequence of the E. coli gene coding for dihydrofolate reductase

Plasmid pLC1437a contains DNA from Escherichia coli K12 including fol, the structural gene for dihydrofolate reductase. The fol gene was mapped on this plasmid relative to several restriction endonuclease cleavage sites. fol was also cloned from strain RSO and the nucleotide sequence for the entire fol gene and its flanking regions from this strain was determined. The amino acid sequence predicted from the nucleotide sequence differs in only a few respects from the reported amino acid sequence of dihydrofolate reductase from E. coli B. The major RNA transcripts initiated at the fol promotor in vivo are approximately 550 and 590 nucleotides long. In addition to these, several longer transcripts (up to 1400 nucleotides) are present in lesser amounts. A new procedure is described for 3' end labeling of DNA fragments having blunt ends using E. coli exonuclease III and avian myeloblastoma virus reverse transcriptase.
Delayed anemia in a newborn infant.

T H I S 8 D A Y O L D boy was rushed t o the hospital by the Cincinnati Life Squad on the evening of March 19, 1969, because he had "stopped breathing at home." The mother, a 27-year-old healthy Caucasian gravida 6, para 5, abortus 1, had had an nnremarkable pregnancy except for demonstrable Rh sensitization; no evidence of sensitization had been manifest during previous pregnancies. The father's blood type was B, Rh positive, and the mother's blood type B was Rh negative. The father was a welder who had been recently discharged from employment because of alcoholism. At birth the patient weighed 7 pounds 5 ounces, and there were no postnatal difficulties. The cord bilirubin was 2 mg. per cent, and the cord hemoglobin was 16 Gm. pe r cent. A direct Coombs test was 4+ positive. The serum bilirubin value did not rise above 5 rag. per cent, and the infant was sent home with his mother at 5 days of age on a proprietary milk fornaula. Two days prior to admission the father noted that the infant was pale but not jaundiced. On the morning of admission he ate well but late in the afternoon he became irritable, was noted to be cold, and developed "heavy breathing." He improved somewhat when warmed but then was said to have stopped breathing and was rushed to the hospital.
Modulation of Ceramide-Activated Protein Phosphatase 2A Activity by Low Molecular Weight Aromatic Compounds

Abstract Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is one of the most important and abundant serine/threonine phosphatases in mammalian tissues and plays a role in gene expression, cell division, and signal transduction. PP2A is activated by ceramide, which is produced by the hydrolysis of membrane sphingomyelin in response to a variety of stress-related stimuli. To further study the role of ceramide-mediated signal transduction in cellular processes such as senescence and apoptosis, we designed and synthesized a series of low molecular weight aromatic compounds, mainly of the isoquinolone and tetralone classes, and evaluated their ability to inhibit enzymes known to be activated by ceramide. Those enzymes studied were ceramide-activated protein kinase, protein kinase C ζ and PP2A. Of these, only PP2A was found to be inhibited. A few of the compounds inhibited both ceramide-activated as well as basal PP2A activity. In addition, several of the compounds activated PP2A by up to 300% above basal enzyme activity, but only in the presence of ceramide. Thus, modulation (both inhibition and activation) of the catatylic activity of ceramide-activated PP2A is demonstrated by certain low molecular weight aromatic compounds.
EFFECT OF ULTRA-VIOLET IRRADIATION OF PHENYLEPHRINE SOLUTIONS.

Solutions of phenylephrine in distilled water were irradiated with ultra-violet light for 3 hr. The irradiated solutions tested on perfused guinea-pig lungs had a bronchodilator potency greater than that of the original non-irradiated phenylephrine solution. The bioassay and photofluorometric determinations (Shore and Olin method) suggested that adrenaline had been formed from phenylephrine in the irradiated solution.
The psychosocial consequences of androgenetic alopecia: a review of the research literature.

Androgenetic alopecia is a common dermatological condition, with potentially adverse psychosocial sequelae. The present review critically examines scientific evidence concerning the effects of androgenetic hair loss on social processes and psychological functioning, as well as the psychosocial outcomes of medical treatments. Research confirms a negative but modest effect of visible hair loss on social perceptions. More importantly, androgenetic alopecia is typically experienced as a moderately stressful condition that diminishes body image satisfaction. Deleterious effects on self-esteem and certain facets of psychological adjustment are more apparent among women than men and among treatment-seeking patients. Various 'risk factors' vis-a-vis the psychological adversity of androgenetic alopecia are identified. Medical treatments, i.e. minoxidil and finasteride, appear to have some psychological efficacy. A conceptual model is delineated to explain the psychological effects of hair loss and its treatment. Directions for needed research are discussed. Strategies are presented for the clinical management of psychological issues among these patients.
Identification of candidate regulatory SNPs by integrative analysis for prostate cancer genome data

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified numerous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), also known as generic variants, associated with disease susceptibility. Prostate cancer (PCa) is a highly heritable disease. GWAS studies have so far reported more than 70 SNPs that are associated with PCa risk. However, most of these SNPs are located in the noncoding genomic regions that little are known about their functional roles. Here we describe an informatics system that performs an integrative analysis of ChIP-seq, RNA-seq, SNP array and clinical data for identifying candidate regulatory SNPs (rSNPs) that could alter transcription factor (TF) binding sites and neighboring gene regulation. By applying the informatics framework on HOXB13 TF in PCa, we identified 213 rSNPs that include a recently discovered rSNP (rs339331) and identified a novel candidate rSNP (rs1476161) associated with the PCa risk. We confirmed rs1476161 by performing the HOXB13 knockout experiment. The expression level the target gene, AURKB, was decreased by about 2-fold in HOXB13-silencing cells compared to the control cells. This indicates the involvement of HOXB13 in altering AURKB gene expression, suggesting a critical role of rs1476161 in allele-specific gene regulation. Taken together, the results demonstrate the feasibility of our system in searching for candidate rSNPs associated with PCa risk.
Characterization of pectinolytic enzymes of Clostridium thermosulfurogenes

Pectinolytic activity is of general importance to the degradation of organic matter in the biosphere and as a biochemical agent of plant spoilage or pathogenesis [1-4]. Certain types of pectinolytic enzymes are vendable and of significance to agricultural and food processing [1,2]. Enzymes from thermophilic bacteria often possess higher catalytic activity and stability than those of mesophilic microorganisms [5]. Nonetheless, only recently has a polygalacturonate lyase (EC 4.2.2.10) been characterized from the caldoacrive bacterium, Bacillus stearothermophilus [6]. We recently isolated and described the properties of Clostridium thermosulfurogenes that was obtained from Yellowstone National Park, U.S.A. [7]. This species was novel because it transformed thiosulfate into elemental sulfur which accumulated in the medium and cells and because it proliferated with a doubling time of 2 h on glucose as well as pectin. However, the general enzymatic features of the pectinolytic activity displayed by this new species were not described. This communication shows that C. thermosulfurogenes produces an active thermostable polygalacturonate hydrolase (EC 3.2.1.15) and pectin methylesterase (EC 3.1.1.11).
Inhibition of mitogen activated protein kinase signaling affects gastrulation and spiculogenesis in the sea urchin embryo

The mitogen activated protein (MAP) kinase signaling cascade has been implicated in a wide variety of events during early embryonic development. We investigated the profile of MAP kinase activity during early development in the sea urchin, Strongylocentrotus purpuratus, and tested if disruption of the MAP kinase signaling cascade has any effect on developmental events. MAP kinase undergoes a rapid, transient activation at the early blastula stage. After returning to basal levels, the activity again peaks at early gastrula stage and remains high through the pluteus stage. Immunostaining of early blastula stage embryos using antibodies revealed that a small subset of cells forming a ring at the vegetal plate exhibited active MAP kinase. In gastrula stage embryos, no specific subset of cells expressed enhanced levels of active enzyme. If the signaling cascade was inhibited at any time between the one cell and early blastula stage, gastrulation was delayed, and a significant percentage of embryos underwent exogastrulation. In embryos treated with MAP kinase signaling inhibitors after the blastula stage, gastrulation was normal but spiculogenesis was affected. The data suggest that MAP kinase signaling plays a role in gastrulation and spiculogenesis in sea urchin embryos.
The Global Geospace Science Program and Its Investigations

The detailed study of the solar-terrestrial energy chain will be greatly enhanced with the launch and simultaneous operation of several spacecraft during the current decade. These programs are being coordinates in the United States under the umbrella of the International Solar Terrestrial Physics Program (ISTP) and include fundamental contributions from Japan (GEOTAIL Program) and Europe (SOHO and CLUSTER Programs). The principal United States contribution to this effort is the Global Geospace Science Program (GGS) described in this overview paper. Two spacecraft, WIND and POLAR, carrying an advanced complement of field, particle and imaging instruments, will conduct investigations of several key regions of ‘geospace’. This paper provides a general overview of the science objectives of the missions, the spacecraft orbits and the ground elements that have been developed to process and analyze the instrument observations.
Inpatient management of diabetes.

Hyperglycemia is common in hospitalized patients with diabetes and contributes to poor outcomes in this population. Use of intravenous insulin protocols for patients who are unable to take anything by mouth, continuation of usual insulin regimens for those who are eating, pre-meal insulin supplements for hyperglycemia, and avoidance of sliding-scale insulin can help the clinician to improve glycemic control. Careful attention to management of diabetes in the hospitalized patient decreases the risk of ketoacidosis, fluid and electrolyte abnormalities, and infection; in critically ill postoperative patients in a surgical ICU setting, it can decrease the risk of death.
Management Student, Professor, and Recruiter Perceptions of Objectives for Gateway Positions: An Assessment

In this article, the author surveyed senior level management majors, management professors, and campus recruiters to investigate the criteria used by the students in selecting desirable positions for employment and the accuracy of management professors' and corporate recruiters' perceptions of those criteria. The author identified the criteria and found that professors and recruiters were not highly accurate in identifying these variables.
Effect of Zn Concentration, Ca Source, Percent Milkfat and Homogenization on Ca, Fe and Zn Solubility in Wheat Cereal Systems under Simulated Gastrointestinal pH

An in vitro sequential pH treatment, simulating the gastrointestinal tract, was used to evaluate effects of Zn fortification, source of Ca and milk type (skim, 1 and 2% fat, homogenized and unhomogenized whole) on Ca, Fe and Zn solubility in moderately (MF) and highly fortified (HF) whole wheat cereals. In both cereals, soluble Zn significantly increased in response to fortification level. While CaCO3-supplemented skim milk promoted mineral solubility in all MF systems, whole milk was most effective in the HF systems. This effect was apparently related to % milkfat and the homogenization process.
The hydrologic behavior of agricultural watersheds

During the past decade there has been much discussion, pro and con, with regard to the effects of agricultural operations upon the amount and regimen of runoff from watersheds. The problem becomes highly involved on large watersheds, because they are made up of various complexes of soil, cover, topography, and other edaphic features. Some of these features are subject to rapid or seasonal change and others are relatively unchanging. On plots it has been established that great changes can be effected, and many data are available that show qualitative and quantitative differences in volumes of runoff. Intermediate between the plot and the large heterogeneous watershed Is the small single-cover watershed. For such areas data have been presented indicating trends toward change, but little has been presented that provides a measure of this change. We need to know what change in hydrologic behavior will result from the changing of a given set of circumstances. It was the objective in this study to present a means of evaluation. While this objective has not been fully attained, perhaps enough progress has been made to warrant a reporting at this time, in the hope that it may stimulate others to pursue a similar course to a more definite end.
Algebraic equivalence of matrix conjugate direction and matrix multistage filters for estimating random vectors

We consider matrix iterative subspace filters for solving minimum mean-squared error estimation problems in low-dimensional subspaces. Very general equivalences are established between matrix conjugate direction and matrix multistage filters, wherein the direction matrices of a matrix conjugate direction filter and the stagewise matrices of a matrix multistage filter are related through a one-term autoregressive recursion. By virtue of this recursion, the expanding subspaces of the two filters are identical, even though their bases for them are different. As a consequence, the subspace filters, gradient matrices, and error covariances in the respective filters are identical at each stage of the subspace iteration. If the matrix conjugate direction filter is a matrix conjugate gradient filter, then the equivalent stagewise filter is a matrix orthogonal multistage filter, and vice-versa. If either the matrix conjugate gradient filter or the matrix orthogonal multistage filter is initialized at the cross-covariance matrix between the signal and the measurement, then each of the matrix subspace filters iteratively turns out a basis for a Krylov subspace, which expands blockwise.
Pes cavus pathogenesis in Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 1A

Sir, We read with great interest the article by Gallardo et al . (2006) in which the evaluation of leg and foot muscles using manual muscle testing and MRI was conducted in a selection of 11 patients aged 8–61 years with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 1A duplication (CMT-1A). We commend the authors for evaluating the intrinsic foot muscles using MRI as this technique has the potential to contribute greatly to the body of knowledge concerning the pathogenesis of pes cavus in CMT-1A. Indeed, several authors have hypothesized from studies of manual muscle testing (Sabir and Lyttle, 1983; Mann and Hsu, 1992) and CT (Price et al ., 1993) that weakness of the intrinsic foot muscles may contribute to the development of pes cavus in CMT-1A. However, the pathogenesis of pes cavus seen in CMT-1A has also been linked to an imbalance of the long muscles of the leg and foot. The hypothetical model proposed by various authors describes a relationship whereby a weak …
Boolean network inference from time series data incorporating prior biological knowledge

Numerous approaches exist for modeling of genetic regulatory networks (GRNs) but the low sampling rates often employed in biological studies prevents the inference of detailed models from experimental data. In this paper, we analyze the issues involved in estimating a model of a GRN from single cell line time series data with limited time points. We present an inference approach for a Boolean Network (BN) model of a GRN from limited transcriptomic or proteomic time series data based on prior biological knowledge of connectivity, constraints on attractor structure and robust design. We applied our inference approach to 6 time point transcriptomic data on Human Mammary Epithelial Cell line (HMEC) after application of Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) and generated a BN with a plausible biological structure satisfying the data. We further defined and applied a similarity measure to compare synthetic BNs and BNs generated through the proposed approach constructed from transitions of various paths of the synthetic BNs. We have also compared the performance of our algorithm with two existing BN inference algorithms. Through theoretical analysis and simulations, we showed the rarity of arriving at a BN from limited time series data with plausible biological structure using random connectivity and absence of structure in data. The framework when applied to experimental data and data generated from synthetic BNs were able to estimate BNs with high similarity scores. Comparison with existing BN inference algorithms showed the better performance of our proposed algorithm for limited time series data. The proposed framework can also be applied to optimize the connectivity of a GRN from experimental data when the prior biological knowledge on regulators is limited or not unique.
Accuracy of pregnancy specific protein-B test for early pregnancy diagnosis in dairy cattle

The objective was to evaluate the accuracy of an ELISA for pregnancy specific protein B (PSP-B) for early pregnancy diagnosis in dairy cattle. Blood from lactating (>100 d postpartum) dairy cows (n = 738), was collected on Days 28, 30, and 35 (Day 0 = estrus), analyzed with an ELISA for PSP-B, and the cows designated as pregnant, probable, unlikely, or non-pregnant. Immediately after blood collection, transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) was done for pregnancy diagnosis, and the results used as a criterion standard test for comparison with PSP-B. At Day 28, 46.3% were diagnosed by TRUS as pregnant. The PSP-B sensitivity was 93.9% on Day 28 and similar on Days 30 and 35. The PSP-B specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy were all >94% on Day 28 and similar on Days 30 and 35. However, the accuracy was significantly less compared to TRUS (P < 0.01). The percentage of all samples from cows that were probably pregnant or unlikely to be pregnant was 5.6%. At Days 28, 30, and 35, percentages of uncertain samples were 8.5, 4.8, and 3.3%, respectively (P < 0.01), and Kappa values were 0.92, 0.92, and 0.95. False negative and false positive results were attributed to low concentrations of PSP-B in pregnant animals and to persistence of pregnant concentrations of PSP-B in females with pregnancy loss, respectively. In conclusion, PSP-B ELISA was a sensitive, specific, and accurate test for pregnancy diagnosis (relative to TRUS) at Days 28, 30, and 35 after breeding.
Distributed computing environment software maintenance: problems of measurement and research

Historically, the largest single life cycle computer system cost has been for maintaining information system software. More recently, the computing world has begun to undergo a significant transformation from centralized computer architectures to non-centralized or distributed computer architectures. The paper discusses a new area of research on software maintenance (and development in general), focusing on the issue of whether and to what extent the emerging technology of distributed computer operating environments directly affects software maintenance. Based on trade journal articles, the issue appears to depend on two diametrics of information system architectures: component simplicity and system complexity. The smaller (but more numerous) the system components, the easier they are to deal with individually (i.e., lower software maintenance costs) but the more difficult it is to deal with the overall system (i.e., higher software maintenance costs). This research was based on a new conceptual model for information systems complexity based on component number and variety, interaction number and variety and the overall rate of change. By applying this complexity model to distributed computing environments, this research sought empirical data from to determine whether the complexity of a distributed computer system has a greater effect on software maintenance than component simplicity, and what the related explanatory factors are.
Safety and effectiveness of acetadote for acetaminophen toxicity.

Abstract Background: Acetaminophen (APAP) toxicity is commonly encountered in the Emergency Department. Until 2004, treatment consisted of either oral N-acetylcysteine (NAC) or filtered oral NAC administered intravenously (i.v.). Intravenous acetylcysteine (Acetadote) is a new Food and Drug Administration-approved i.v. formulation of acetylcysteine manufactured by Cumberland Pharmaceuticals in Nashville, Tennessee. Little post-marketing data exists on the effectiveness and safety of i.v. acetylcysteine. Objectives: We evaluated the clinical presentations and outcomes of patients treated with i.v. acetylcysteine for APAP toxicity. Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review of patients treated with i.v. acetylcysteine for APAP ingestion. The primary outcome measures were: adverse reactions to and effectiveness of i.v. acetylcysteine, as defined by elevation of transaminases, liver failure, renal failure, death, and hospital length of stay (LOS). Data collected included: comorbidities, allergies, intentionality, timing and dosing of i.v. acetylcysteine, hospital LOS, transaminases > 1000 IU/L, development of liver failure requiring transplant, development of renal failure requiring hemodialysis, death, and anaphylactoid reactions. Results: Sixty-four patients met our study criteria. Overall, 16 (25%) patients developed transaminases > 1000 IU/L, 4 (6%) of them died and 2 (3%) received liver transplants. Of the 15 patients (23%) treated within 8 h, none died or developed liver or renal failure, and only 1 developed transient transaminase elevation > 1000 IU/L. In the patients treated outside of 8 h, the median LOS was 3 days, whereas the group treated within 8 h had a median LOS of only 1 day. Six (9%) patients developed anaphylactoid reactions, 2 of whom received the i.v. acetylcysteine bolus over 15 min. Five of these patients were treated pharmacologically and completed treatment, and one had treatment discontinued for undocumented reasons. Conclusion: Intravenous acetylcysteine seemed to be a safe and effective formulation of N-acetylcysteine.
The Effect of Heat Exposure on Plasma Uric Acid, Lactate Dehydrogenase, Chloride, Total Protein and Zinc of the Broiler

Abstract The Technicon sequential multiple analysis system was used to measure plasma uric acid, lactate dehydrogenase, chloride, and total protein of 8 week old broilers exposed for 4 weeks and 9 week old broilers exposed for 4 hours to both 18–22°C. and 33–35°C. Broilers exposed for 4 weeks to 18–22°C. had a significant higher (P
Distributive nature of gate current and negative transconductance in heterostructure field-effect transistors

Experimental data showing that the dependence of the gate current on the drain voltage in enhancement-mode heterostructure field-effect transistors changes qualitatively when the gate voltage is varied from below to above threshold are presented. The data lead to the conclusion that for gate voltages higher than the threshold voltage and drain voltages larger than the drain saturation voltage, most of the potential drop occurs in a small region near the drain end of the channel. The gate current is distributed along the channel so that electrons in the channel are diverted toward the gate. A model is proposed that takes into account such a distribution of the gate current along the channel. The distributive nature of the gate current leads to negative transconductance in heterostructure field-effect transistors at high gate voltages. Negative transconductance reaching -125 mS/mm in 1- mu m gate devices is observed, and an equivalent circuit model is proposed that describes the dependence of the drain current on the gate voltage in good agreement with present experimental data. >
Prostate Cancer Screening and Treatment in the Transplant Population: Current Status and Recommendations

Purpose: We reviewed the current status of and recommendations for prostate cancer screening and treatment in the solid organ transplant population.Materials and Methods: We performed a MEDLINE® search to identify published data regarding prostate cancer screening, risk, treatment and outcomes in the solid organ transplant population. The literature was reviewed and summarized.Results: Most data regarding outcomes of prostate cancer treatment in the transplant population are limited to case reports and small series, and primarily involve renal insufficiency. It does not appear that the development or natural history of prostate cancer is significantly affected by organ failure or subsequent transplantation. Thus, prostate specific antigen testing and screening protocols can be extrapolated from the general population. However, the balance of comorbid diseases and estimated limitations in life expectancy must be carefully considered, and emphasis should be placed on risk assessment. Prostatectomy appears t...
Staging Laparotomy in the Management of Hodgkin’s Disease: Is it Still Necessary?

Approximately 3,500 cases of stage I and II Hodgkin’s disease are diagnosed each year in the United States. Traditionally, those patients who are considered candidates for primary radiation therapy undergo staging laparotomy (pathologic staging) to rule out definitively the presence of occult subdiaphragmatic disease. An appreciation of the risks of laparotomy and a recognition of the effectiveness of salvage chemotherapy in patients who fail primary radiation therapy have permitted the increased use of clinical staging as the basis for treatment of these patients. This article summarizes the literature regarding the need for staging laparotomy in early stage Hodgkin’s disease and suggests alternative approaches to the management of these patients based on clinical criteria and prognostic factors. The Oncologist 1996;1:41-55