cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
High-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia in needle biopsy as risk factor for detection of adenocarcinoma: current level of risk in screening population.

Abstract Objectives To assess the current incidence of prostate carcinoma detection in serial biopsies in a prostate-specific antigen-based screening population after a diagnosis of isolated high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HG-PIN) in needle biopsy tissue. Methods We retrospectively identified 190 men with a diagnosis of isolated HG-PIN in needle biopsy tissue. Most men (86%) were diagnosed from 1996 to 2000. Logistic regression analysis was used to predict the presence of carcinoma in these 190 men and in a control group of 1677 men with only benign prostatic tissue in needle biopsy tissue. Results The cumulative risk of detection of carcinoma on serial sextant follow-up biopsies was 30.5% for those with isolated HG-PIN compared with 26.2% for the control group ( P = 0.2). Patient age ( P = 0.03) and serum prostate-specific antigen level ( P = 0.02) were significantly linked to the risk of cancer detection, but suspicious digital rectal examination findings ( P = 0.1), the presence of HG-PIN ( P = 0.2), and the histologic attributes of PIN were not (all with nonsignificant P values). HG-PIN found on the first repeat biopsy was associated with a 41% risk of subsequent detection of carcinoma compared with an 18% risk if benign prostatic tissue was found on the first repeat biopsy ( P = 0.01). Conclusions The results of our study have shown that the current level of risk for the detection of prostate carcinoma in a screened population is 30.5% after a diagnosis of isolated HG-PIN in a needle biopsy. This risk level is lower than the previously reported risk of 33% to 50%. HG-PIN is a risk factor for carcinoma detection only when found on consecutive sextant biopsies. The data presented here should prompt reconsideration of repeat biopsy strategies for HG-PIN, and re-evaluation of the absolute necessity of repeat biopsy for all patients with HG-PIN.
Preliminary experiments on dynamic biology of micro-organisms to avoid any specific full-blown syndrome on humans

The aim of this paper is to apply an efficient system to detect, identify and quicken suppression of any dangerous micro-organism which threatens the health of the human body in any form. It is well known that some specimens of this kind of possess a specific energy related to their speed of division, toxin emissions and high-powered interaction with human and animal cells which have the capacity to provide certain deadly full-blown syndromes. Many problems relating to the above-mentioned properties have not been clarified to date, and it is vital to find a rapid and valid reply as soon as possible. Inter-disciplinary sciences directed us to start some experiments to solve such problems, considering that the human body is dotted with a multiple interactive system of energy release, a fact which can explain the source of the micro-organism's energy also, for their necessity to manifest their deadly pathology. From practical preliminary experiments with some micro-mechanical systems using light-microscopy, connected to video TV Recorder System, one obtains optical enlarged TV images of certain processes which indicated the right way towards our crucial target; ie: the preparation of safe vaccines and safe medicines. This will constitute a basic system to a void deadly manifestations of dangerous micro-organisms and/or even regular infections on earth and in space, a system which will probably be applied at the ISS Space Station and other future actions in space in long and very long flights. We look forward to applying this system of dynamic biology towards preparation of a real and valid vaccine(s) against HIV virus on AIDS diseases.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Hydrogen Bonding of Tyrosine B10 to Heme-bound Oxygen in Ascaris Hemoglobin DIRECT EVIDENCE FROM UV RESONANCE RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY

The hemoglobin from Ascaris suum, a parasitic nematode, has a spontaneous dissociation rate for the dioxygen ligand that is 3 orders of magnitude less than for mammalian myoglobins or hemoglobins. In this hemoglobin, the distal histidine is replaced with a glutamine which is capable of forming a stabilizing hydrogen bond to the bound dioxygen. A single hydrogen bond from a glutamine is, under typical circumstances, not sufficient to account for the low off rate for oxygen. Several studies point to a second hydrogen bond to the heme-bound dioxygen originating from tyrosine B10 as the source of this unusual reactivity. In this study ultraviolet (UV) resonance Raman spectroscopy is used to directly observe the formation of this hydrogen bond upon oxygen binding. The study reveals that both oxygen and carbon monoxide induce similar conformational changes in the globin upon binding to the heme; however, in the case of oxygen, a strong hydrogen bond involving a tyrosine is also observed. Similar studies on the QE7L mutant of this Hb suggest that the glutamine plays a role in stabilizing a rigid tertiary structure associated with the distal heme pocket. This conformation maintains the tyrosine in an orientation conducive to hydrogen bond formation with a heme-bound dioxygen ligand.
Architecture and applications of novel self-assembled aggregates of fluoroalkyl-end-capped oligomers

Abstract Numerous fluoroalkyl-end-capped amphiphilic oligomers were prepared under mild conditions by the use of fluoroalkanoyl peroxides as key intermediates. These fluorinated oligomers were demonstrated to form the molecular assemblies imparted by strong aggregations of the end-capped fluoroalkyl segments in aqueous and organic media. In addition, fluoroalkyl-end-capped oligomers containing betaine segments or hydroxy segments were able to cause gelation, where the synergistic interaction of both the strong aggregation of the end-capped fluoroalkyl segments and the ionic or hydrogen-bonding interaction are involved in establishing a gel network in water and polar organic solvents under non-crosslinked conditions.
Female choice of large males in the treefrog Hyla chrysoscelis: the importance of identifying the scale of choice

In this study, I detected the presence of female choice for larger males in the treefrog Hyla chrysoscelis. Mated males were larger than unmated males at the scales females could have assessed males: local groups (males found within 2 meters of a mated pair) and the nightly chorus. In addition, females were observed to initiate amplexus with the larger males in local groups. Mated males were larger than unmated males for two of the four seasons studied. Seasonal mating success was also analyzed with a multiple regression model that included size and chorus attendance (nights spent at the breeding site). The partial selection coefficients, which represent the relative magnitude of directional selection, were significant for size in only one season and for chorus attendance in all four seasons. Therefore, there are two possible advantages to being a large male: increased likelihood of obtaining a mate due to female preference, and increased likelihood of mating even if no female preference because of a greater number of opportunities to obtain a mating if matings occurred at random.
Exploring Factors that Predict Preservice Teachers’ Intentions to Use Web 2.0 Technologies Using Decomposed Theory of Planned Behavior

AbstractThis study investigated factors that predict preservice teachers’ intentions to use Web 2.0 technologies in their future classrooms. The researchers used a mixed-methods research design and collected qualitative interview data (n = 7) to triangulate quantitative survey data (n = 286). Results indicate that positive attitudes and perceptions of perceived usefulness are significant predictors of preservice teachers’ intentions to use Web 2.0 technologies. Additional findings indicate that preservice teachers intend to use blogs, wikis, and social networking in their future classrooms to improve student learning, student-student and student-teacher interaction, collaborative learning, student writing ability, and sharing content knowledge. Although preservice teachers intend to use Web 2.0 technologies due to these pedagogical benefits, they believe that successful use of Web 2.0 depends on the meaningful integration of these technologies with the subject being taught, learning goals, and age level o...
A self-loading microfluidic device for determining the minimum inhibitory concentration of antibiotics

This article describes a portable microfluidic technology for determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of antibiotics against bacteria. The microfluidic platform consists of a set of chambers molded in poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) that are preloaded with antibiotic, dried, and reversibly sealed to a second layer of PDMS containing channels that connect the chambers. The assembled device is degassed via vacuum prior to its use, and the absorption of gas by PDMS provides the mechanism for actuating and metering the flow of fluid in the microfluidic channels and chambers. During the operation of the device, degas driven flow introduces a suspension of bacterial cells, dissolves the antibiotic, and isolates cells in individual chambers without cross contamination. The growth of bacteria in the chambers in the presence of a pH indicator produces a colorimetric change that can be detected visually using ambient light. Using this device we measured the MIC of vancomycin, tetracycline, and kanamycin against Enterococcus faecalis 1131, Proteus mirabilisHI4320, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli MG1655 and report values that are comparable to standard liquid broth dilution measurements. The device provides a simple method for MIC determination of individual antibiotics against human pathogens that will have applications for clinical and point-of-care medicine. Importantly, this device is designed around simplicity: it requires a single pipetting step to introduce the sample, no additional components or external equipment for its operation, and provides a straightforward visual measurement of cell growth. As the device introduces a novel approach for filling and isolating dead-end microfluidic chambers that does not require valves and actuators, this technology should find applications in other portable assays and devices.
Late Pleistocene species distribution modelling of North Atlantic intertidal invertebrates

Aim In this study we test molecular-based biogeographical hypotheses of Pleistocene persistence and recolonization in a North Atlantic rocky intertidal invertebrate assemblage using species distribution modelling. Location North Atlantic coastlines. Methods We develop a novel application of species distribution models for intertidal taxa by using both oceanographic and terrestrial environmental variables recently made available at biologically relevant pixel resolutions. We use these model-based distribution estimates to test alternative hypotheses of late Pleistocene history across six amphi-Atlantic taxa whose hypothesized Pleistocene distributions are constructed from previous population genetic inferences. Results Species distribution models correctly estimate all six current amphi-Atlantic distributions on both sides of the Atlantic. Models hindcasted to the Last Glacial Maximum estimate trans-Atlantic distributional persistence in three of six taxa, and conversely indicate no suitable habitat on the North American coastline in the other three taxa. These results are consistent with the histories inferred from population genetic data for five of six of the taxa, the exception being Nucella lapillus, whose hindcasted trans-Atlantic persistence at the Last Glacial Maximum contrasts with the mitochondrial DNA-based estimates of post-glacial expansion from Europe to North America. Main conclusions Marine and terrestrial distribution models are broadly concordant with known contemporary distributions and fail to reject five of six historical distributional hypotheses based on population genetic inferences. This demonstrated utility suggests that this technique could be expanded to examine how Pleistocene and contemporary climate change might play a role in intertidal species distributions across the entire community. Future application and development of these marine and terrestrial distribution models will strengthen inferences regarding the processes generating intertidal community assembly and population divergence, and may assist in conservation planning and the design of marine reserves.
Diversity and Pattern in the Developing Spinal Cord

The generation of distinct neuronal cell types in appropriate numbers and at precise positions underlies the assembly of neural circuits that encode animal behavior. Despite the complexity of the vertebrate central nervous system, advances have been made in defining the principles that control the diversification and patterning of its component cells. A combination of molecular genetic, biochemical, and embryological assays has begun to reveal the identity and mechanism of action of molecules that induce and pattern neural tissue and the role of transcription factors in establishing generic and specific neuronal fates. Some of these advances are discussed here, focusing on the spinal cord as a model system for analyzing the molecular control of central nervous system development in vertebrates.
Low-density lipoprotein particle size and coronary atherosclerosis in subjects belonging to hypertensive sibships.

Background Dyslipidemia in hypertensive sibships may be characterized by atherogenic small low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles. Whether LDL particle size is associated with the extent of coronary atherosclerosis in hypertensive sibships is unknown. Methods Subjects ( n = 792, mean age 62 years, 60% women) were ascertained through sibships containing at least two individuals with essential hypertension diagnosed before age 60 years. The LDL particle size was measured by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Coronary artery calcium (CAC) was measured noninvasively by electron beam computed tomography, and CAC score was calculated using the method of Agatston et al. Sex-specific multiple regression models were used to assess independent predictors of LDL particle size and the association of LDL particle size with CAC. Results In all, 76% of women and 77% of men were hypertensive. In each sex, independent predictors of smaller LDL particle size were total cholesterol, triglycerides, and lower HDL cholesterol. In women, greater age was an additional predictor of smaller LDL particle size. After adjustment for age and statin use, LDL particle size was significantly associated with the amount of CAC in women but not in men. After further adjustment for HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, diabetes, smoking, and hypertension, LDL particle size was not independently associated with CAC in either sex. Conclusions After adjustment for age and statin use, LDL particle size was found to be significantly related to CAC quantity in women but not in men belonging to hypertensive sibships. In women, LDL particle size may mediate some of the atherogenic effects of low-HDL cholesterol-high-triglyceride dyslipidemia, but does not appear to be independently associated with the extent of coronary atherosclerosis in either sex.
Stochastic control of a pension fund model with first‐order Markov‐dependent parameters

The well known problem of the optimal control of a stochastic discrete linear system with independent parameters and with a quadratic objective functional is generalized to the case where the parameters of the system constitute a first-order Markov chain. The solution to this more general problem is obtained by the principles of stochastic dynamic programming, and the ‘bi-feedback’ nature of the optimal controls is explained. The results are applied to the solution of a 25-period stochastic pension funding problem where it is assumed that the market returns constitute a first-order Markov chain.
Dynamics in an adiabatic free electron laser

Theoretical work in progress indicates that an FEL (free-electron laser) with a recirculating beam of electrons might be a practical device, as long as the wiggler parameters change slowly during trapping and detrapping of the beam, so that excessive beam heating does not occur. This could greatly increase the efficiency of a short-wavelength FEL operated in the Compton regime. Standard tapered wigglers are adiabatic for the trapped particles, but these particles are significantly heated each time they enter and exit the wiggler. >
Characterization of 12 single nucleotide polymorphisms in weathervane scallop

We describe 27 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a commercially important bivalve, the weathervane scallop ( Patinopecten caurinus ), identified using a targeted-gene approach. We further characterize 12 of these using 5′′ -nuclease and allele-specific PCR assays. Polymorphisms were identified in both mitochondrial and nuclear genes. These are the first SNPs developed for delineating population structure in the weathervane scallop and will provide a useful complement to currently available genetic markers.
Thyroid Function Tests During the Early Phase of Subacute Thyroiditis

Six patients with subacute thyroditis were followed with serial measurements of T4, FT4, TSH and RAI uptake. Five of the six underwent TRH stimulation early in the course of their illness. All six patients had elevated or high normal values for T4 and FT4 at the time of their clinical presentation (mean = 13.8 microgram per 100 ml and 3.9 ng per 100 ml, respectively). RAI uptakes were 1% or less in all six. TRH testing revealed a suppressed TSH response (mean deltaTSH less than0.1 muU/ml) in all five patients tested, suggesting hyperthyroidism. After initial studies were performed, five patients were treated with L-triiodothyronine (L-T3) and one with aspirin. All patients improved over a two to four week period of time, no relapses being noted.
Basic fibroblast growth factor induces primordial follicle development and initiates folliculogenesis

The recruitment of primordial follicles to initiate folliculogenesis determines the population of developing follicles available for ovulation and directly regulates female reproductive efficiency. In the current study, a floating organ culture system was used to examine the progression of primordial (stage 0) follicles to developing (stages 1-4) follicles in 4-day-old pre-pubertal rat ovaries. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) was found to induce primordial follicle development similar to what has been demonstrated for kit ligand/stem cell factor (KL). The bFGF-treated ovaries contained 85% developing follicles compared with 50% developing follicles for control untreated organ cultures. Correspondingly, the number of primordial follicles in bFGF-treated ovaries decreased to 15% of the total compared with 45% for controls. A bFGF neutralizing antibody was found to decrease the small amount of spontaneous follicle development that occurs during the organ culture. Basic FGF was localized to primordial and early developing follicles by immunocytochemistry and was primarily observed in the oocytes. Treatment of bovine ovarian theca cells and stroma cells with bFGF was found to promote cell growth. Basic FGF produced by the oocyte in early stage follicles appears to act on adjacent somatic cells to promote cell growth and development. Basic FGF, like KL, appears to be a primordial follicle-inducing factor. In summary, bFGF can regulate primordial follicle development that directly influences female reproductive efficiency.
From visual simulation to virtual reality to games

During the past decades, the virtual reality community has based its development on a synthesis of earlier work in interactive 3D graphics, user interfaces, and visual simulation. Currently, the VR field is transitioning into work influenced by video games. Because much of the research and development being conducted in the games community parallels the VR community's efforts, it has the potential to affect a greater audience. Given these trends, VR researchers who want their work to remain relevant must realign to focus on game research and development. Leveraging technology from the visual simulation and virtual reality communities, serious games provide a delivery system for organizational video game instruction and training.
Determining landscape use of Holocene mammals using strontium isotopes

The use of the landscape by animals is predicted to be a function of their body size. However, empirical data relating these two variables from an array of body sizes within a single mammalian community are scarce. We tested this prediction by assessing landscape use of mammals by analyzing strontium (Sr) isotope signatures found in mammalian hard tissues representing a 3,000-year record. We examined: (1) the Sr-determined landscape area of small (∼100 g), medium (∼1,500 g) and large (∼100,000 g) mammals, and; (2) whether the area used by these mammals varied during periods of environmental change. Strontium isotope values were obtained from 46 specimens from the Holocene paleontological deposits of Lamar Cave and Waterfall Locality in Wyoming, USA, as well as from 13 modern ungulate specimens from the same area. Our data indicate that medium- and large-sized species use larger percentages of the landscape than do species of small body size. The isotope values for specimens from each of the paleontological sites are similar across all stratigraphic levels, suggesting no change in home range over the last 3,000 years, even though climate is known to have fluctuated at these sites over this time period. Further, our study verifies that the fossil localities represent the local community. Where bedrock geology is appropriate, the use of strontium isotope analyses provides a valuable tool for discerning landscape use by vertebrate communities, an important though generally difficult aspect of an ancient species niche to identify.
Shape-Based Alignment of Hippocampal Subfields: Evaluation in Postmortem MRI

This paper estimates the accuracy of hippocampal subfield alignment via shape-based normalization. Evaluation takes place in postmortem MRI dataset acquired at 9.4 Tesla with many averages and approximately 0.01,mm3voxel resolution. Continuous medial representations (cm-reps) are used to establish geometrical correspondences between hippocampal formations in different images; the extent to which these correspondences match up subfields is evaluated and compared to normalization driven by image forces. Shape-based normalization is shown to perform only slightly worse than image-based normalization; this is encouraging because the former is more applicable to in vivoMRI, which typically lacks features that distinguish hippocampal subfields.
Respiratory Tract Burns after Aspiration of Hot Coffee

We present the findings in a patient with acute thermal burn to the upper and lower airway who developed mucosal edema followed by patchy areas of granuloma-like lesions in the trachea and bronchi. A four-month follow-up showed resolution of the gross lesions, but functional alterations remained. This patient illustrates the necessity for repeated direct observation and functional evaluation of the lower airway following thermal injury, which can be a life-threatening disorder.
Realistic spin-FET performance assessment for reconfigurable logic circuits

A rigorous numerical simulation of the spin field effect transistor (spinFET) is implemented. This method includes for the first time the effects of both channel spin relaxation and tunnel barriers between the source/drain and the channel. The key device metric, magnetoresistance ratio (MR), is found to be lower than earlier predictions which did not include these effects. Adjusting contact parameters and inserting tunnel barriers leads to an increased MR. Reconfigurable circuits with spinFETs shows ∼7X, ∼32X, and ∼6X improvements in delay, power and area respectively as compared to a 15nm CMOS FPGA circuit. Moreover, when the spinFET is used as a sleep transistor, leakage is reduced by a factor of >104 in memory/logic circuits.
A Medication Health Literacy Tool

Proper protocol for the use of prescription drugs by a patient can often be confusing and readily subject to error. The health literacy tools found at Drugs.com and provided in their mobile app, offer a ready avenue of guidelines to assist patients in understanding the purpose of their medications, preventing drug interactions, and aid for timely administration of medications. The peer-reviewed information found at Drugs.com is compiled by registered pharmacists and provides accurate and pertinent information for more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and natural products.
Perestroika in the Archives? Further Efforts at Soviet Archival Reform

The new openness in Soviet society in recent years has led to dramatic changes in Soviet archives. There has been tremendous progress in normalization of access and working conditions, along with an increase in foreign projects and collaborative ventures, although some archives still retain the characteristics of a closed society. Captured Nazi records and other foreign archival materials brought back to Moscow at the end of World War II remain sealed in the "Special Archive," but their existence has finally been admitted. Significant problems continue to affect archival research, and other serious archival problems remain in the areas of appraisal and acquisition of records, and a lack of adequate archival security, storage, and reproduction facilities, many of them related to the country's economic and political crisis. Reduced budgets have forced archives to assume more financial responsibility by moving toward a fee-for-service basis, even as they have been given more autonomy from centralized control...
Pregnancy-associated subacute hemorrhage into a prolactinoma resulting in diabetes insipidus

A young woman with a small pituitary tumor associated with hyperprolactinemia developed subacute intrapituitary hemorrhage during the third trimester of pregnancy and presented with central diabetes insipidus. Magnetic resonance imaging established the diagnosis. After transsphenoidal surgery, her visual findings resolved, and the patient had an uneventful spontaneous delivery.
Abstract 380: Gender Differences in Glucose Metabolism Profile in Patients with ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Background: Presence of insulin resistance has been known to be a strong independent risk factor for coronary artery disease. However, there is limited data on gender differences in metabolic profile of patients that present with an acute ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Methods: All patients (N = 1,652) who underwent primary PCI for STEMI at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation between January 2005 to December 2012 were included. Insulin Resistance (IR) was defined as presence of diabetes mellitus (DM) or pre-DM. Further DM was identified if there was a known history of DM or hypoglycaemic therapy or if admission glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was ≥ 6.5 and pre-DM was defined for admission HbA1c ≥ 5.7 and < 6.5. Lastly, prevalence of IR in women was compared with similarly aged men presenting with STEMI at our institution. Results: IR was identified in 70% (n= 1,163/1,652) and DM in 30% (n = 487/1,652) of patients presenting with STEMI. Prevalence of IR was significantly higher in post menopausal women (age > 50 years) when compared with similarly aged men (79%; 344/435 vs. 69%; 603/871; p <0.0001) with majority of the difference contributed by difference in incidence of DM (38%; 163/435 in females vs 29%; 257/871 in males; p<0.0001; Figure 1). Conclusions: Our results indicate that prevalence of IR including diabetes mellitus may be higher in women as compared to similarly aged men who present with STEMI and the difference increases with increasing age. We also noted that Pre-DM contributes significantly to the high prevalence of IR in subjects with STEMI irrespective of gender. Larger studies are required to assess the impact of Pre-DM on adverse cardiovascular events in men as well as women. ![][1] [1]: /embed/graphic-1.gif
Influence of simulated rainfall on efficacy of fluazinam, chlorothalonil and iprodione for dollar spot control in creeping bentgrass

Abstract Efficacy of foliar applied fungicides following simulated rainfall for the control of dollar spot (caused by Sclerotinia homoeocarpa F.T. Bennett) was assessed in a two-year field study on creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.) turf maintained as a golf course fairway. The study was conducted as a randomized complete block design with a factorial arrangement. Fluazinam (0.8 kg a.i. ha−1), chlorothalonil (3.79 kg a.i. ha−1) or iprodione (1.5 kg a.i. ha−1) were applied, then subjected to simulated rainfall (2.54-mm) at intervals of 15-, 30-, 60-min post-application, or no simulated rain. In most cases, simulated rainfall occurring ≤60 min post-application had greater disease than no rain plots; however, few differences occurred among rainfall intervals ≤60 min. Fluazinam provided the greatest dollar spot reduction regardless of simulated rainfall interval throughout the study. Chlorothalonil was most susceptible to losses in efficacy due to simulated rainfall, resulting in the greatest disease incidence of those fungicides evaluated. Iprodione was comparable to chlorothalonil during high disease pressure, although during moderate disease pressure it controlled dollar spot for approximately 7 days before disease increased in plots receiving simulated rain compared to those without simulated rain. These data demonstrate that efficacy of fungicides applied for dollar spot control are affected by rain, and differ in their ability to control disease following post-application rain events. Fluazinam, a recently introduced contact fungicide for use on turfgrass, can provide improved control compared to chlorothalonil or iprodione when rain is eminent.
Synchrotron photoionization mass spectrometry measurements of product formation in low-temperature n-butane oxidation: toward a fundamental understanding of autoignition chemistry and n-C4H9 + O2/s-C4H9 + O2 reactions.

Product formation in the laser-initiated low-temperature (575–700 K) oxidation of n-butane was investigated by using tunable synchrotron photoionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry at low pressure (∼4 Torr). Oxidation was triggered either by 351 nm photolysis of Cl2 and subsequent fast Cl + n-butane reaction or by 248 nm photolysis of 1-iodobutane or 2-iodobutane. Iodobutane photolysis allowed isomer-specific preparation of either n-C4H9 or s-C4H9 radicals. Experiments probed the time-resolved formation of products and identified isomeric species by their photoionization spectra. For stable primary products of butyl + O2 reactions (e.g., butene or oxygen heterocycles) bimodal time behavior is observed; the initial prompt formation, primarily due to chemical activation, is followed by a slower component arising from the dissociation of thermalized butylperoxy or hydroperoxybutyl radicals. In addition, time-resolved formation of C4-ketohydroperoxides (C4H8O3, m/z = 104) was observed in the n-C4H9 + O2 ...
Methods of isozyme electrophoresis for Trichoderma and Gliocladium species

Species of Trichoderma and the closely related genus Gliocladium are ubiquitous, active components of the soil microflora. As biocontrol agents, these fungi can protect a wide range of agronomic, horticultural, and ornamental plants against a variety of plant pathogens (6, 13), and a few strains have been patented for commercial use. Some strains enhance plant growth or rooting of cuttings even in the absence of pathogens (4, 14). Trichoderma spp. have also been studied extensively as potential sources of cellulases for utilization of lignocellulosic materials (10, 17). The taxonomy, genetics and population composition of these fungi are poorly understood. Limited knowledge of variability in these fungi and infrequent culturing of their sexual stages make delineation of narrowly defined species difficult (16). Additionally, little is known about such genetic components as ploidy levels, frequency of heterokaryosis, or the prevalence of parasexual events. Finally, methods are lacking to differentiate among strains for patent purposes, or to determine the variability and abundance of strains in natural ecosystems. Isozyme analysis by starch gel electrophoresis is a powerful method for taxonomic, genetic and population studies. Descriptions of general techniques and of numerous enzyme assay systems have been published (9, 12, 18, 20, 21). However, for studies of specific organisms, suitable enzyme assays and corresponding electrophoretic buffers must be determined empirically (8, 12, 18). For an enzyme assay to be useful, enzyme activity must be reliably detected and activity bands must be clearly resolved. In addition, polymorphism must exist among isolates of the study population. Also, the usefulness of an enzyme assay for a particular study often depends on the number of loci detected. Assays detecting products of single loci can be particularly useful because polymorphism among individuals reflects allelic differences, and electrophoretic variants can be scored as allozymes. The genetic basis of an isozyme phenotype usually can be inferred from the complexity of the activity band pattern visualized (9, 12, 18). In this study, 63 enzyme assays were tested in combination with four electrophoretic buffers to assess detection of enzyme activity, resolution of activity bands, and complexity ofphenotypes visualized. This report summarizes the most useful systems for studies of Trichoderma and Gliocladium spp. and identifies those which apparently visualize products of single loci, i.e., allo-
Abstract 4764: Targeting formin autoinhibition to construct cell infrastructure

Rho small GTP-binding proteins locally manage Diaphanous-related formins as they construct the cytoskeletal infrastructure that supports essential changes in cell morphology. Rho binding unlatches formin intramolecular autoinhibition. The autoinhibition is mediated by the Dia-inhibitory and -autoregulatory domains (DID & DAD) which flank the formin homology-2 (FH2) domain. The free FH2 domain guides the assembly of the linear actin and microtubule structures required for adhesion, migration, division, and polarity establishment. Microtubule stabilization is already known to be an effective anti-cancer strategy. Combined with the knowledge that formins can act as haploinsufficient tumor suppressor genes, a screen was conducted for agents that could impair autoinhibition in order to activate formins for therapeutic benefit. We have focused on two of the primary “hits” for development. VARI01 and VARI02 are nearly identical thioamide inhibitors of DID-DAD binding (IC50 values ≤ 140 nM). Exposure of cultured tumor cells to either compound triggered the expected changes in cell structure and signaling that were consistent with formin activation. These included microtubule stabilization, F-actin assembly, the activation of the transcription factor SRF, cell-cycle arrest, and eventual apoptosis. SRF senses changes in actin dynamics to activate the expression of genes that reinforce cell structure and monitor genome integrity. VARI01 and VARI02 both exhibit anti-tumor activity in xenograft studies. Ongoing studies are aimed at identifying VARI01/VARI02-sensitive tumor types and to define other potential therapeutic applications. Significance: Microtubule stabilization by taxol has proven to be an effective anti-cancer strategy, but it has significant deleterious side effects. Small-molecule formin activation serve as a novel class of anti-cancer agents that may provide tools for unlocking the biological roles of formins in signalling and disease. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4764. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-4764
A report of the survey on the present application of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty in Japan

To elucidate the current use of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) in Japan, questionnaires concerning PTCA experience in 1986 and indications for using PTCA were sent to 53 relatively experienced centers. The results were collected from 46 centers (87%), and the data were analyzed. A total of 5,255 PTCA were performed in 1986, which was 35% greater than that in 1985. Of these, 4,440 PTCA procedures were performed in patients with angina. Primary success was achieved in 3,790 patients (85%), and complications included 21 deaths (0.5%), 41 emergency bypass surgery (CABG) (0.9%), and 118 myocardial infarction (MI) (2.7%). Another 815 PTCA procedures were performed in patients with acute myocardial infarction, of which 58% were direct PTCA and 42% were PTCA following thrombolysis. Primary success was achieved in 674 patients (83%) with complications of deaths in 19 (2.3%) and emergency CABG in 17 (2.1%). The initial treatments in patients with significant coronary stenosis diagnosed by initial coronary arteriography in 1986 were analyzed. In 6,845 patients with angina or old myocardial infarction, medical treatment was selected in 46%, PTCA in 40% and CABG in 14%. In 1,506 patients with acute infarction, medical treatment was performed in 21%, PTCA including PTCA following thrombolysis in 44%, CABG in 3% and only coronary thrombolysis in 32%. Questions on criteria required to select patients for PTCA and clinical or angiographic indications for PTCA were also asked. The following conditions were not necessarily required in more than half of the centers: symptoms, refractoriness to medical treatment and surgical candidates. However, evidence of myocardial ischemia and viability of the lesion-related myocardium were required as criteria in the majority of centers. The following clinical or angiographic features were not always indicated in more than two-third of centers: i.e. cardiogenic shock, and 90% or less stenosis in acute infarction, 75% stenosis in variant angina, patients over 80 years old, poor cardiac function with 29% or less ejection fraction, severely calcified coronary lesions, long segment lesions (greater than or equal to 2 cm), distal lesions, unprotected left main trunk lesions, total obstructions (of more than three months duration), and three vessel disease with two total occlusions and one discrete lesion.
Therapeutic Nurse-Patient Interaction

Virtually all of the practice of nursing with psychiatric patients takes place within a nurse-patient relationship. Unlike other specialized areas of nursing, there is very little hands-on practice. There are, of course, medical orders, medications, and treatments with which nurses help or carry out; but only the nurse-patient relationship, within which such prescriptions are carried out, can properly be called nursing. Quality nursing in psychiatric work requires very little technical skill and is very much a matter of competence exercised within the relationship of nurse with patient. The nature of such competence is often greatly misunderstood. Nurses and other professionals often erroneously advise nurses that their work is simply a matter of being pleasant, friendly, obliging, accessible, unconditional, and completely open in revealing oneself to patients. Friend, companion, chum, mother, or parent substitute are all suggested as nurse roles. Competence in nurse-patient relationships is a much more complicated expertise.
Ultrasound-guided percutaneous sclerosis of congenital splenic cysts using ethyl alcohol 96% and minocycline hydrochloride 10%: A pediatric series.

Abstract Introduction The management of congenital splenic cysts continues to evolve. In the past the standard treatment was splenectomy, but increased knowledge about the spleen's immunologic function has led most pediatric surgeons to preserve splenic tissue. A great number of studies using sclerosing substances have been published, but to date reports in children have been limited. Our study concerns a group of 15 children with congenital splenic cysts treated with percutaneous drainage and sclerosis with alcohol. We performed the procedure under general anesthesia and checked radiologically for possible leakage. Methods In 2000 our group started managing pediatric patients with splenic cysts. During the first eight years surgery was the treatment of choice. From April 2008 to December 2014, a prospective study was conducted on 15 consecutive patients treated with percutaneous sclerotherapy. The outcomes regarding cystic dimensional variations before and after treatment were analyzed. Results In 20% of patients complete disappearance of the cystic lesion was achieved. In 67% of the patients the maximum diameter of the cyst was reduced to below 50mm. Conclusion Our results should encourage the use of this treatment because it is a valid and safe option in childhood. The high success rate achieved with percutaneous drainage and sclerotherapy of cystic lesions supports our results.
Serial observations of colonic carcinogenesis in the rat: Premalignant mucosa binds Ulex europeus agglutinin

Abstract We evaluated certain histochemical tests for their ability to detect premalignant mucosa in the dimethylhydrazine model of colonic carcinogenesis. Biweekly colonoscopic biopsies of the descending colon were performed for 29 wk in control and dimethylhydrazine-treated rats. Biopsy specimens of the splenic flexure, rectum, and any visualized tumors were taken. The specimens were stained with periodic acid-Schiff to detect neutral mucins, high-iron diamine alcian blue to detect sialylated and sulfated mucins, fluoresceinated peanut agglutinin, and fluoresceinated Ulex europeus agglutinin. None of the first three tests consistently detected premalignant mucosa. However, Ulex europeus agglutinin, which bound to only 3% of control biopsy specimens throughout the course of the study, bound to increasing numbers of biopsy specimens in the dimethylhydrazine-treated animals, reaching a maximum of 90% positivity by 13–16 wk. Moreover, Ulex europeus agglutinin bound strongly to all biopsy specimens from tissues adjacent to tumors and to 93% of tumors. Mucosal atrophy and focal dysplasia were present more frequently in specimens taken from the rectum (but not the splenic flexure) of dimethylhydrazine-treated animals than of control animals, but there was no correlation between the histochemical markers and either atrophy or dysplasia. We conclude that Ulex europeus agglutinin binding is a consistent feature of premalignant colonic mucosa in dimethylhydrazine-treated rats.
Socioeconomic Variation in a Late Antebellum Southern Town

This paper looks at socioeconomic stratification as reflected in the distribution of material goods in a small, inland, antebellum community. Based on both archaeological and documentary resources, this sort of research represents one of the major strengths of historical archaeology in that it fosters comparison and integration of different types of data, allowing for a more complete picture of socioeconomic scaling and material wealth. The major goals of the paper are twofold: the first is methodological, comparing the results of artifactual and documentary approaches to the assessment of material culture consumption; and the second is more substantive, involving a general consideration of socioeconomic stratification, its nature in antebellum southern society, and relationships between social structure and material culture and its consumption.
Effect of Instrument Design and Access Outlines on the Removal of Root Canal Obturation Materials in Oval-shaped Canals.

Abstract Introduction The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of TRUShape (TS) instruments with ProFile Vortex Blue (VB) instruments for the removal of obturation materials during retreatment of single-canal mandibular premolars performed through 2 access outlines. Methods Initial root canal treatment was completed through a contracted endodontic cavity (CEC) design. Canals were instrumented to an F2 ProTaper instrument, obturated with warm lateral condensation of gutta-percha with AH Plus sealer, and allowed to set for 30 days at 37°C and 100% humidity. For retreatment, specimens were divided into 2 groups (n = 24) on the basis of access outline, CEC or traditional endodontic cavity (TEC). Retreatment was initiated by using ProTaper Retreatment instruments (D1–D3). Specimens were then stratified, further divided (n = 12), and reinstrumented up to TS 40 .06v or 40 .06 VB. Irrigation was performed by using 8.25% NaOCl and QMix 2in1. Retreatment time was recorded. Teeth were sectioned and photographed, and the percentage of remaining obturation materials was measured. Data were analyzed with Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance for two-factor tests (α Results The interaction between access design and instrument type showed that the combination of CEC-VB presented significantly higher amounts of remaining obturation materials on the canal surface when compared with TEC-VB, CEC-TS, and TEC-TS (P ≤ .05). None of these other combinations were different from each other (P > .05). Significantly more time was required for retreatment with CEC-TS (27.68 ± 1.4 minutes) than the other groups (P Conclusions Neither retreatment protocol was able to completely eliminate all obturation materials from the root canal surface of mandibular premolars. However, in the presence of a CEC access design, using TS instruments removed more obturating material in single-rooted, oval-shaped canals.
An Alternate Path: The Experience of High-Potential Individuals Who Left School:

Dropping out of school represents the culmination of a process that begins long before a student enters high school. It is estimated that a quarter of students with high potential leave school without a high school diploma; however, research on how high-potential students uniquely experience dropping out of school is in its beginning stages. This study sought to acquire a rich understanding of how 14 gifted individuals who did not complete high school interpreted this experience and the meaning they attributed to it. Six major themes emerged from the data: (a) significant external circumstances, (b) need for support, (c) social influences, (d) outlets, (e) an alternate path, and (f) reflecting on the path. This exploratory study enhances our understanding of why gifted students choose to leave school and supports the validity of alternate paths to success.