cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Downstaging disease in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma outside of Milan criteria: strategies using drug-eluting bead chemoembolization.

Abstract Purpose To assess downstaging rates in patients with United Network for Organ Sharing stage T3N0M0 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treated with doxorubicin-eluting bead transarterial chemoembolization to meet Milan criteria for transplantation. Materials and Methods A single-center retrospective review of 239 patients treated with doxorubicin-eluting bead (DEB) chemoembolization between September 2008 and December 2011 was undertaken. Baseline and follow-up computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging was assessed for response based on the longest enhancing axial dimension of each tumor (ie, modified Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumors measurements), and medical records were reviewed. Fisher exact tests and exact logistic regression were used to test the association of patient and disease characteristics with downstaging. Results After exclusions, 22 patients remained in the analysis, 17 of whom (77%) had their HCC downstaged to meet Milan criteria. Among those whose disease was downstaged, seven underwent transplantation, one remained listed for transplantation, six had disease progression beyond Milan criteria, two underwent conventional transarterial chemoembolization, and one underwent radiofrequency ablation. The seven patients who received transplants were still living, but recurrent HCC developed in two. Baseline age ( P = .25), Model for End-stage Liver Disease score ( P = .77), and α-fetoprotein (AFP) level ( P = 1.00) were similar between patients with and without downstaged HCC. No associations were observed between the odds of downstaging and sex ( P = .21), Child–Pugh class ( P = .14), Child–Pugh class controlling for baseline tumor multiplicity ( P = .15), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ( P = 1.00), tumor burden ( P = .31), multiple tumors ( P = .31), or hepatitis C virus infection ( P = 1.00). Fifteen patients who did not receive transplants were alive at 1 year, with two progression-free. Baseline AFP levels differed between those who survived 1 year and those who did not ( P = .02), but did not differ by progression-free survival status ( P = .62). Conclusions T3N0M0 HCC treatment with DEB chemoembolization has a high likelihood (77%) of downstaging the disease to meet Milan criteria.
LIN28B fosters colon cancer migration, invasion, and transformation through let-7 dependent and independent mechanisms

Lin28b is an RNA-binding protein that inhibits biogenesis of let-7 microRNAs. LIN28B is overexpressed in diverse cancers, yet a specific role in the molecular pathogenesis of colon cancer has to be elucidated. We have determined that human colon tumors exhibit decreased levels of mature let-7 isoforms and increased expression of LIN28B. To determine LIN28B's mechanistic role in colon cancer, we expressed LIN28B in immortalized colonic epithelial cells and human colon cancer cell lines. We found that LIN28B promotes cell migration, invasion and transforms immortalized colonic epithelial cells. In addition, constitutive LIN28B expression increases expression of intestinal stem cell markers LGR5 and PROM1 in the presence of let-7 restoration. This may occur as a result of Lin28b protein binding LGR5 and PROM1 mRNA, suggesting that a subset of LIN28B functions is independent of its ability to repress let-7. Our findings establish a new role for LIN28B in human colon cancer pathogenesis, and suggest LIN28B post-transcriptionally regulates LGR5 and PROM1 through a let-7-independent mechanism.
Multiple attachments and group psychotherapy: implications for college counseling centers.

Abstract A large body of literature has supported the application of attachment theory to the understanding of college student development and the process of individual psychotherapy. Despite group treatment being one of the major methods of intervention in college counseling centers, there has been very little research guided by attachment theory that has been applied to the area of group psychotherapy. Many current assessment instruments used in college counseling centers can be supported with attachment theory, and many group therapy interventions are aimed at facilitating secure working models of self, other, and groups. This paper explores the importance of personal and group attachments in group psychotherapy and specifically addresses implications for clinical training and research in university counseling centers.
Surface-fed dikes: the origin of some unusual dikes along the Hilina fault zone, Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii

The origin of dike-like bodies along the Hilina fault scarp on the south flank of Kilauea Volcano. Hawaii has been the subject of recent controversy. Some geologists favour an origin by intrusion of magma from below, others favour « intrusion » of lava derived from above — lava derived from fluid surface flows which poured down open cracks. In order to distinguish between deep versus surface sources for the bodies, a suite of dike and other samples were analyzed for S, H2O, and Cl. All surface flows are degassed, whereas known dikes are volatile-rich. Samples of the Hilina dikes, and dikes from the Ninole Formation, Mauna Loa are degassed, indicating that these dikes were surface-fed — formed by magma which had been de-volatized by surface transport. A model is presented whereby the Hilina dikes form in talus and lava cones that drape the Hilina fault scarp. Seismic activity during eruption may have played an important role in the formation of the Hilina dikes. Similar dikes in the Ninole Formation probably formed in a similar environment.
Latent structure of anxiety: taxometric exploration

Taxometrics is a statistical tool that can be used to discern categories from continua. Taxometric analyses (MAXCOV and MAXEIG) were conducted in a large nonclinical sample (N=1,215) to determine whether extreme anxiety forms a distinct psychopathological category, an anxiety taxon. Anxiety was operationalized with self-report measures of subjective anxiety, anxious cognitive style, physiological arousal, and anxiety-related impairment. Procedures consistently identified a taxon with a prevalence of approximately 11%. Examination of the taxon's convergent and discriminant validity revealed that it reflects general distress rather than physiological arousal. Taxon membership showed some evidence of incremental validity. Language: en
Watching for fireballs on Jupiter

Over a period spanning six nights starting July 16, a series of hypervelocity impacts will take place on a scale never before witnessed. Comet fragments of sizes possibly measured in kilometers will collide with Jupiter at 60 km/s. This event has captured the imaginations of planetary scientists, professional and amateur astronomers, physicists, seismologists, atmospheric scientists, theoretical astrophysicists, and computational mathematicians. Current expectations are that the fragments of Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 will be too small to generate impacts that will be visible to Earth-based observers.
Combined oligodendroglioma/pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma: a probable collision tumor: case report.

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE: We report the first case of combined oligodendroglioma and pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: A female college student and competitive cross-country runner presented to the Mayo Clinic at age 18 years with complaints of progressive headache and visual disturbances. Neuroimaging revealed a heavily calcified left parieto-occipital mass with focal enhancement and remodeling of the overlying calvarium. INTERVENTION: A histological examination of the nearly gross total resection specimen disclosed a low-grade oligodendroglioma discretely abutting a superficially situated focus of pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma. Ten months thereafter, a recurrence was suspected on the basis of the detection of a new focus of nodular enhancement. This lesion stabilized after radiation therapy, and the patient is well, without apparent residual disease 2.8 years after surgery. CONCLUSION: This unique neoplasm is presumed to represent a collision tumor, its biological behavior being similar to that of oligodendroglioma alone. However, the possibility of an unusual, mixed oligoastrocytoma with pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma as the astrocytic component cannot be excluded entirely. Potentially, both components have the capacity for recurrence and anaplastic transformation.
The molecular genetics of the tauopathies.

Abstract The identification of mutations in the tau gene in frontotemporal dementia and Parkinsonism linked to chromosome 17 (FTDP-17) demonstrated that there is a direct link between tau dysfunction and neurodegeneration. At least 11 missense mutations and a three base pair deletion (ΔK280) have been identified in exons 9–13. Additionally, five splice site mutations have been found in intron 10. The different FTDP-17 mutations have multiple effects on the biology and function of tau. These varied pathogenic mechanisms likely explain the wide range of clinical and neuropathological features observed in different families with FTDP-17. In addition to the tau mutations, a common extended haplotype in the tau gene also appears to be a risk factor in the development of the apparently sporadic tauopathies progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and corticobasal degeneration (CBD). The mechanism by which this common variability in the tau gene influences the development of these neurodegenerative diseases is unclear; however, it further suggests a central role for tau in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative conditions including Alzheimer's disease (AD).
The influence of human growth hormone (HGH) on the thyroxine (T 4 )-triiodothyronine (T 3 )-ratio in HGH deficient patients

To study the HGH-dependency of the T4-T3-conversion rate 12 patients with proven HGH-deficiency were examined. 8 patients showed additionally an impared TSH secretion compatible with secondary hypothyreoidism. T4, T3, TSH and TBG were measured by specific radio-immunoassay a) under current substitution therapy, b) after its cessation for at least 4 weeks and c) after recommencement in two weeks intervalls. Results: Under current therapy all values were in the normal range. After cessation of therapy, T4 decreased in all patients with hypothyreoidism below 5, 0 mcg% while T3 kept the level> 80 ng% in 3 cases and was found below the lower limit in the other 5 patients. TSH levels remained unchanged in the normal or low basal range. In the 4 patients with isolated HGH deficiency T4 and T3 remained as to be expected in the normal range. 4-6 weeks after recommencement of the prior therapy there was in all cases including those with isolated HGH deficiency a HGH dependent increase of T4 - T3 - ratio due to a slight or moderate decrease of T4 and an increase of T3. Conclusion: In HGH deficient patients with or without additonal anterior pituitary insufficiencies HGH substitution cause a significant enhancement in the conversion of T4 to T3.
Arsenite Oxidation by Alcaligenes Faecalis Strain O1201 in a Continuous-Flow Bioreactor

As(III) oxidation by a pure bacterial culture, Alcaligenes faecalis strain O1201, was evaluated using a continuous stirred tank reactor. The bioreactor system was operated for 204 days under a wide range of influent As(III) concentrations (500–8,000 mg∕L) and hydraulic retention times (25.6–90.7 h) with citrate as the sole carbon and energy source at pH 7 and 30°C. Nine steady-state conditions were obtained with As(III) oxidation efficiency exceeding 95%. The system quickly recovered from an As(III) overloading at 15,000 mg∕day∕L while it operated at a HRT of 12.8 h . A material balance analysis revealed that nearly all the As(III) removed in the continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) was oxidized to As(V) and only 3.2% of the As(III) fed to the CSTR was unaccounted for. Biokinetic parameters, kmc =0.86 mg∕mg cell dry weight/h and Kc =70 mg∕L , for As(III) oxidation were obtained using the Monod expression and data obtained at steady-state conditions.
Should buttresses and sealants be used to manage pulmonary parenchymal air leaks

Although the vast majority of air leaks after pulmonary resection are of no major significance and resolve spontaneously after a day or so, some air leaks will persist. These prolonged air leaks, and the initial air leaks that lead to them, have drawn substantial attention for a variety of reasons. First, air leaks are associated with (and may cause) other cardiopulmonary complications, thereby increasing the overall morbidity associated with pulmonary resection. Second, even in the absence of associated complications, an air leak that lasts after a patient is otherwise ready for discharge may prolong hospital stay, creating a substantial economic impact. Both industry and independent investigators have proposed a variety of solutions to the problem of air leaks. We and other coauthors recently reviewed the postoperative techniques that might be used to reduce the duration of air leaks and made suggestions regarding the use of these techniques. A number of equally controversial intraoperative products and maneuvers have been advocated to prevent or ameliorate air leaks. These potential solutions include a variety of glues and sealants designed to be applied to areas of leakage, buttressing materials for staple lines, and finally some traditional surgical techniques. Multiple studies, including quite a few randomized clinical trials, have been published in recent years to evaluate these products and techniques. Several issues, however, complicate the thought process when deciding whether to use these products and techniques. First, the data that have accumulated regarding their effectiveness are often conflicting. Results that statistically favor the use of a product may not demonstrate a sufficient magnitude of benefit for clinical relevance. Second, the data suffer from broader problems, such as the frequent failure to report on the outcome variable of most concern to surgeons—the incidence of prolonged or complicated air leak—and the general failure to focus study on high-risk groups (eg, patients with emphysema). Finally, although
The selective action of nickel on tubule function in rabbit kidneys

Abstract Two days after intraperitoneal injection NiCl 2 (20 μmol/kg) into rabbits the same apparently uncompetitive inhibition of aspartate reabsorption is seen as was previously observed following acute exposure to other metals. This dose of Ni reduced the calculated maximum tubular transport rate for aspartate ( T m ) and the apparent affinity constant ( K M ) by over 50%, but exerted no effect on either T m or K M of cycloleucine or glucose reabsorption. The relative selectivity of the nephrotoxic action of Ni and other metals is reviewed; it raises the question whether the acute effects observed are appropriately described as a Fanconi-like syndrome.
Recurrence of diaphragmatic agenesis associated with multiple midline defects: evidence for an autosomal gene regulating the midline.

We report the familial occurrence of diaphragmatic agenesis in association with other midline anomalies in a brother and sister. Opitz and Gilbert [Am J Med Genet 1982, 12:443–455] introduced the concept of the midline as a developmental field, and there have been reports of pedigrees compatible with the hypothesis of an X-linked gene regulating the development of the mid-line. This family suggests that an autosomal gene also contributes to the morphogenesis of midline structures. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Precision Experiments on Muonium. III. Ramsey Resonance in Zero Field

A novel method for measuring the hyperfine interval $\ensuremath{\Delta}\ensuremath{\nu}$ of muonium in zero magnetic field is described. It consists in applying two successive coherent microwave pulses (lengths $\ensuremath{\tau}$, separation $T+\ensuremath{\tau}$) to muonium, and observing the change in muon polarization at $tgT+2\ensuremath{\tau}$. By linearly extrapolating two low-pressure runs in Kr together with earlier Chicago data, we obtain $\ensuremath{\Delta}\ensuremath{\nu}(0)=4463301.2(2.3)$ kHz (0.5 ppm). A joint fit of all available data in Ar and Kr yields $\ensuremath{\Delta}\ensuremath{\nu}(0)=4463304.4(2.3)$ kHz. With $\frac{{\ensuremath{\mu}}_{\ensuremath{\mu}}}{{\ensuremath{\mu}}_{p}}=3.183349(15)$ the latter implies (a) ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}\ensuremath{-}137=0.03631(32)(2.4 \mathrm{ppm})$, and (b) a proton polarizability ${\ensuremath{\delta}}_{p}^{\ensuremath{'}}=5.4(4.8)$ ppm.
Evaluating Spatial and Temporal Variability of Fecal Coliform Bacteria Loads at the Pelahatchie Watershed in Mississippi

ABSTRACT Bacterial contaminations of surface waters are an increasing concern for scientists and public health agencies because pathogenic bacteria can cause adverse effects on human health. This research was performed to investigate spatial and seasonal variability of fecal coliform bacteria (FCB) concentrations in the Pelahatchie watershed (527 km2) in Mississippi, USA. Livestock manure, poultry litter, and effluent from failing septic systems were identified as major sources of FCB in the Pelahatchie watershed. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT)/microbial sub-model was applied, and model-simulated FCB concentrations were compared with the monthly measured FCB concentrations (years 2001–2008) at the outlet of the watershed. New methodologies were introduced to incorporate bacteria loads into the bacteria model. Results showed coefficients of determination (R 2) of 0.71 to 0.75, and Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency index (NSE) of 0.67 to 0.75 during the bacteria model's calibration and validation periods...
Value of 8S/4S fractionation of estrogen receptors (ER) for prediction of response to hormonal manipulation in metastatic breast cancer

Using sucrose gradient centrifugation, human breast cancer estrogen receptors appear in two molecular forms sedimenting at either 8S or 4S fractions. The sum of these two fractions has been valuable clinically in helping to predict response to hormonal therapies. It has been suggested that the 4S receptor may not be of predictive value and that the practice of using only dextran-coated charcoal methodology might thus overestimate the number of patients whose tumors might be hormonally dependent. The present study correlates clinical response to hormonal manipulations with 8S and 4S receptors as determined by sucrose density gradient centrifugation. Patients with only 4S positive receptors had a 56% response rate to hormonal manipulation compared with a 52% response rate in patients with positive 8S alone or with both 8S and 4S receptors. Although patient numbers are small in this and the other three published series addressing this question, our data do not confirm two previously published studies suggesting clinical importance of 8S/4S fractionation.
Fullerene and graphene formation from carbon nanotube fragments

Abstract We study the long-time annealing behavior of 60-atom fragments of carbon nanotubes using two accelerated molecular dynamics methods. We find that this behavior depends strongly on the geometry of the nanotube fragment. Fragments from ( n , n ) nanotubes with n ⩽ 5 quickly form closed structures. Whether the terminations of ( n , 0) fragments ( n ⩽ 9) close depends on the structure of the termination. Those forming a zigzag structure remain open for the duration of our simulations. Fragments from ( n , n ) nanotubes with n ⩾ 6 exhibit surprising behavior, with (7, 7) fragments unfolding to form thermodynamically unfavorable graphene fragments. These results suggest that small-radius ( n , n ) fragments will be unreactive with other molecules, large-radius ( n , n ) fragments will react with other molecules, and the reactivity of ( n , 0) fragments will depend on the details of their structure. We include a discussion of the accelerated molecular dynamics methods and some of the implementation details to give the reader a sense of how they can be effectively applied to this kind of system.
Formation of chemically active chlorine compounds by reactions of atmospheric NaCl particles with gaseous N 2 O 5 and ClONO 2

Participate NaCl and NaBr are known1,2 to react with NO2 in air at concentrations of a few parts per 106 (p.p.m.) to form the corresponding nitrosyl halides XNO (X = Cl, Br), a process that may contribute to the photochemistry of polluted marine areas and remote regions such as the Arctic3,4. Here we report experimental evidence that gaseous chlorine nitrate (ClONO2) and dinitrogen pentoxide (N2O5) at p.p.m. concentrations also react with NaCl particles at 298 K, to form Cl2 and ClNO2 respectively. Thus, the chloride ion in a neutral salt can be transformed into gaseous, photochemically active forms of chlorine at 298 K in a manner analogous to that reported recently for the reactions of HCl in ice with ClONO2 and N2O5 at 185–200 K (refs 5–8). This work suggests that reactions of N2O5 with NaCl in tropospheric marine areas, and possibly in cold climates where chloride salts are used on roads in the winter, should be considered in assessing the atmospheric chemistry of these regions. Furthermore, if the reactions of ClONO2 and N2O5 with NaCl occur also at stratospheric temperatures and if NaCl is present in significant concentrations, these reactions may provide another mechanism for recycling ionic halide ions into gaseous species and hence should be considered in models of stratospheric ozone depletion.
Attempts to control dental health care costs: the U.S. experience.

Abstract This paper presents a review and evaluation of efforts to control dental care costs in the United States. In general, health care costs have become a major concern in the United States; health spending has risen significantly faster than expenditures and prices for other goods and services. The same is not true for dentistry, however. The first section of this paper documents the moderate growth of dental care expenditures and summarizes some of the contributing factors such as increases in health care utilization, productivity, auxiliary utilization and prepayment. For several reasons, including multiple sources of payment and organizational independence of providers, there has been no comprehensive policy of cost containment in the United States. Nevertheless, there are a multitude of separate efforts aimed directly or indirectly at controlling costs. The most important of these are identified and discussed under three general headings : health care organization and delivery, planning and development, and reimbursement. After reviewing a variety of cost containment approaches, it is concluded that, overall, they have been effective but with direction could perhaps be more so. There are certain types of approaches which have proved more effective or promising than others. These are identified and discussed as: (1) programs which encourage increased responsibility on the part of the individual for his or her health; (2) community prevention programs; (3) increased productivity through efficient use of auxiliaries and equipment; (4) certain structural factors illustrated by Health Maintenance Organizations, particularly peer review and methods of reimbursing providers which create incentives for efficient dental practice; and (5) prepayment and review of benefits encouraging early dental care. Last, it is noted that care must be taken in designing and administering cost containment programs to avoid dysfunctional side effects such as reductions in access to services.
Willingness to pay and experienced utility as measures of affective value of information objects: Users' accounts

The article discusses two instant measures of affective value of information objects: Willingness-to-Pay (WTP) and Experienced Utility (EU). The potential utility of these measures for information retrieval research is positioned within a broader discussion of distinctions between instant utility and remembered utility and their relationship to immediate as opposed to retrospective subjective evaluations. The paper describes an approach for obtaining instant WTP and EU ratings in document evaluation in contexts of information search and thereafter reports results from a usability study of its implementation. Participants encountered no difficulties in use of the design format and in rating documents using WTP and EU measures. Although two measures were found statistically significantly correlated with each other, participants in the usability study offered different reasons for the ratings of WTP and EU made for the same document.
A Case Study of the Desertification of Haiti

Although Haiti is one of the largest Caribbean nations only 20% of the land under cultivation is appropriate for agriculture. Once covered by forest, this country has been heavily logged and now mostly deforested. The majority of the arable land is being farmed beyond their carrying capacity. The total area under agriculture production is 6 times greater than the estimated areas suitable for agriculture resulting in significant deterioration of the land. Both national and international governments have made several attempts to combat desertification but few initiatives have been successful. This research will (1) review the current literature pertaining to desertification, with special emphasis on Haiti, (2) review the impact of internal and external programs designed to reverse the effects of desertification, (3) compare the indicators of desertification that exist on the island of Hispaniola, and (4) discuss the consequences of desertification for Haiti.
Facing the global challenges posed by biological weapons

This review article examines the growing concern about the threat posed by the use of biological weapons by States or terrorist groups. The article analyzes the nature of the perceived risk from bioweapons, the historical attempts to control them, and the emerging policy and legal framework designed to deal with the bioweapon threat.
Congenital Saccular Aneurysms of the Aortic Ring

Congenital saccular aneurysms arising in the area of the aortic ring are not common. They may be located deep in the aortic sinus, at the commissure of two adjacent cusps, or in the area involving the membranous portion of the interventricular septum. They may be found at any age. This report concerns a child 2 years of age with a relatively large saccular aneurysm of the aortic ring just at the site of the commissure between the right and noncoronary cusps of the aortic valve. Terminally, this anomaly was complicated by infection leading to vegetative and ulcerative endocarditis. Death was sudden and was apparently directly related to the complications of the deformity.
Primary Differentiated N-euroblastoma of the Orbit

A 49-year-old woman had a 12-year history of a localized left orbital tumor that required five subtotal excisions, orbital radiotherapy, and finally an exenteration. The last procedure was performed after visual function had deteriorated and in order to prevent spread of the tumor into a surrounding compartment. The biopsy specimens from the first four surgeries showed a stroma-free spindle cell tumor with benign cytologic features and no mitotic activity, which exhibited palisading of nuclei, imbrication of delicate cytoplasmic processes (neuropil), true perivascular rosettes with cytoplasmic processes oriented perpendicular to vessel walls, and Wright rosettes. The biopsy after radiotherapy and the exenteration specimen contained more polyhedral (gemistocytoid) tumor cells with abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm and tapering cell processes; nuclear pleomorphism without mitotic activity was also seen. Electron microscopy showed the presence of neurosecretory dense-core granules in the perikaryon region of the tumor cells and in the myriad interweaving cytoplasmic processes (neurites); neither Nissl substance nor synapses were identified. Immunohistochemical staining for neuron-specific enolase was positive, but glial fibrillary acidic protein stained negative. This previously undescribed orbital tumor is interpreted as a primary differentiated neuroblastoma without evidence of ganglion cell differentiation that exhibited locally aggressive behavior. The distinctions between neuroblastic and neuroendocrine tumors are discussed.
Left ventricular midwall function improves with antihypertensive therapy and regression of left ventricular hypertrophy in patients with asymptomatic hypertension

Recent evidence suggests that regression of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) with antihypertensive therapy improves prognosis. The mechanism for this benefit is unknown but may be related to effects on myocardial performance. Midwall fractional shortening (mFS) is often depressed in patients with asymptomatic hypertension, is associated with LVH, and is a potent, independent predictor of outcome. We therefore examined whether antihypertensive therapy may improve midwall performance. mFS as well as conventional echocardiographic parameters were measured serially among 29 hypertensive persons during 6 months of drug therapy. Stress-adjusted and absolute midwall function improved by 10% and 11%, respectively (p <0.05), whereas no significant changes were detected in other measures of chamber function. Improvement in function was more pronounced in patients with concentrically remodeled ventricular geometry and in those who achieved greater reductions in left ventricular (LV) mass. Antihypertensive therapy and LV mass regression is associated with demonstrable improvements in cardiac performance when assessed using mFS. Determinations of mFS may have a promising role in identifying patients with early hypertensive heart disease, tracking responses to therapy, and in elucidating the potential beneficial effects associated with LV mass regression.
Mechanisms and kinetics for platelet and neutrophil localization in immune complex nephritis

Mechanisms and kinetics for platelet and neutrophil localization in immune complex nephritis. We have previously reported that both neutrophils (PMNs) and platelets mediate proteinuria in a model of subendothelial immune complex (IC) nephritis (GN) in the rat. In order to understand the interaction of PMNs and platelets in this model, we quantitated the uptake of 111 In-labelled platelets in glomeruli and correlated this with the number of PMNs observed histologically at 10 and 30 minutes, 1, 4 and 24 hours following induction of GN. Platelet accumulation was biphasic with a major peak at 10 minutes and a minor peak at four hours. Early platelet accumulation was complement dependent, and PMN-independent. PMN accumulation occurred after the initial platelet influx, peaking at one and four hours, was complement dependent, but was not affected by platelet depletion. Complement depletion significantly reduced proteinuria. This is the first documentation that platelet accumulation in glomeruli in IC GN is complement dependent. In addition, the enhancement of PMN-mediated injury by the platelet in this model does not involve effects of platelets on PMN localization, thus implying a functional interaction between these cells within the glomerulus.
Genetic loci that control the angiogenic response to basic fibroblast growth factor

Angiogenesis is controlled by a balance between stimulatory growth factors and endogenous inhibitors. We propose that the balance of stimulators and inhibitors, as well as the general sensitivity of the endothelium to these factors, varies from individual to individual. Indeed, we have found that individual mouse strains have dramatically different responses to growth factor-induced neovascularization. Quantitative trait loci (QTLs), which influence the extent of angiogenesis induced by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), were previously identified by our laboratory. Since genetic susceptibility may vary according to the angiogenic stimulator, we have undertaken a similar mapping approach to identify QTLs that influence basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF2) induced neovascularization in the BXD series of recombinant inbred mouse strains. Composite and multiple interval mapping identified areas of chromosomes 4, 13, 15, and 18. These new angiogenesis QTLs, named AngFq1 through AngFq4 (for angiogenes...
The environmental psychology of the hospital: Is the cure worse than the illness?

This paper presents a framework and summarizes evidence bearing on the role that the physical environment plays in the prevention and reduction of psychological and social problems encountered by patients in acute care and psychiatric institutions. Factors that are considered important to preventive strategies include issues such as the spatial layout and design of hospital environments, privacy problems, personal control and independence, information interventions, hospital social relationships, and levels of environmental stimulation. Two case studies are utilized to illustrate these issues within the context of both acute care and psychiatric facilities in a large municipal hospital. Greatest emphasis is placed on the use of the physical environment in the promotion of primary and secondary prevention within tertiary care settings.
On the natural shape of a plastically deformed thin sheet

A thin-plate model for elastic–plastic deformations, based on the theory of materially uniform bodies, is used to address the problem of determining the natural, unloaded configurations of plastically deformed sheets.
Computational and In Vivo Analysis of the Role of Solid Biomechanics in the Development of Intimal Thickening Post-Stenting

Despite the tremendous success of vascular stents in treating occlusive artery disease, failure due to excessive neointimal hyperplasia resulting in the formation of a new blockage (termed restenosis) is still unacceptably high. While drug-eluting stents have reduced restenosis rates in coronary application, many problems (e.g. late term thrombosis, incomplete endothelialization, lack of success in peripheral arteries, hypersensitivity) and high cost still have raised concerns of their exclusive use. Regardless of the failure rates, vascular stenting is the standard treatment for occlusive artery disease, and as their use is likely to continually increase there is an imperative need to increase the success rate of this interventional therapy.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Designed Formation of Nanocomposites via Dipole Interaction

The formation of designed nanocomposites by multiple layers of adsorbate molecules is studied. We consider the presence of two types of molecules in each layer, which are characterized by different dipole moments. The nanostructures are characterized by the non-uniform distribution of the two molecules. A phase field model is developed to simulate the molecular diffusion and patterning under the combined actions of dipole moments, intermolecular forces, entropy, and external electric field. The study reveals self-alignment, structure conformation and the possibility to reduce the domain sizes via a layer by layer approach. It is also shown that the structure in a layer may define the roadway for molecules to travel on top it. This combined with electrodes embedded in the substrate gives much flexibility to guide the molecular organization and fabrication of designed nanocomposites.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Thickness Evaluation of Insulated Pipelines and Pressure Vessels Using Pulsed Eddy Current Technology

Information about integrity of pipelines and pressure vessels is vital to the oil and gas industry. This emphasizes the need for fast and cost effective non-destructive testing solutions for monitoring and inspection of these components. However, due to reasons such as corrosion protection and temperature maintenance, pipelines and pressure vessels are usually coated throughout the oil and gas industry. These coatings also present a barrier to inspections and typically need to be removed prior to inspection with nondestructive evaluation (NDE) methods. This article presents a pulsed eddy current (PEC) system suitable for nondestructive evaluation of steel pipelines and pressure vessels without the need for removing the coating layers. A PEC probe was fabricated and a custom computer code with built in signal processing and data analysis functions was developed to collect the measurement signals and calculate thickness variations in the test objects. From a lift-off distance of 12mm, experiments were performed on eight SS304 stainless steel samples with thicknesses ranging from 1mm to 8mm. The SS304 steel was chosen as the test material to represent the steel type commonly used in the pipeline industry. A calibration curve based on the zero crossing time of initial measurements was obtained and implemented into the measurement software. Using the calibrated system, 25 measurements where performed on each sample. Statistical analysis of results showed that the proposed system can accurately detect thickness variations in the test samples with maximum measurement error of 3.3 percent.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Envisioning an Oral Healthcare Workforce for the Future

Health is critical to human well-being. Oral health is an integral component of health. One is not healthy without oral health. As health is essential to human flourishing, it is important that an oral healthcare delivery system and workforce be developed and deployed which can help ensure all citizens have the potential to access oral health care. As such access does not generally exist today, it is imperative to advance the realization of this goal and to develop a vision of an oral healthcare workforce to functionally support access. Public funding of basic oral health care is an important element to improving access. However, funding is only economically feasible if a workforce exists that is structured in a manner such that duties are assigned to individuals who have been uniquely trained to fulfill specific clinical responsibilities. An essential element of any cost-effective organizational system must be the shared responsibility of duties. Delegation must occur in the oral health workforce if competent, cost-effective care is to be provided. Desirable members of the oral health team in an efficient and effective system are as follows: generalist dentists who are educated as physicians of the stomatognathic system (oral physicians), specialist dentists, dental therapists, dental hygienists, dually trained hygienists/therapists (oral health therapists), oral prosthetists (denturists), and expanded function dental assistants (dental nurses).
The Dust Grains from 9P/Tempel 1 Before and After the Encounter with Deep Impact

Gemini-N observed the properties of dust ejected from the nucleus of comet 9P/Tempel 1 before and after its encounter with Deep Impact. Marked changes were seen in the 7.8- to 13-micrometer spectral energy distribution and derived grain properties of the inner coma. A strong, broad silicate feature dominated by emission from amorphous pyroxene, amorphous olivine, and magnesium-rich crystalline olivine had developed by 1 hour after impact. The ejected dust mass is ≅104 to 106 kilograms on the basis of our models. Twenty-six hours later the silicate feature had faded, leaving a smooth featureless spectrum, similar to that observed before the impact, suggesting that the impact did not produce a new active region releasing small particles on the nucleus.
Coexistence of Multiple Proteobacterial Endosymbionts in the Gills of the Wood-Boring Bivalve Lyrodus pedicellatus (Bivalvia: Teredinidae)

Wood-boring bivalves of the family Teredinidae (commonly called shipworms) are known to harbor dense populations of gram-negative bacteria within specialized cells (bacteriocytes) in their gills. These symbionts are thought to provide enzymes, e.g., cellulase and dinitrogenase, which assist the host in utilizing wood as a primary food source. A cellulolytic, dinitrogen-fixing bacterium, Teredinibacter turnerae, has been isolated from the gill tissues of numerous teredinid bivalves and has been proposed to constitute the sole or predominant symbiont of this bivalve family. Here we demonstrate that one teredinid species, Lyrodus pedicellatus, contains at least four distinct bacterial 16S rRNA types within its gill bacteriocytes, one of which is identical to that of T. turnerae. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that the three newly detected ribotypes are derived from gamma proteobacteria that are related to but distinct (>6.5% sequence divergence) from T. turnerae. In situ hybridizations with 16S rRNA-directed probes demonstrated that the pattern of occurrence of symbiont ribotypes within bacteriocytes was predictable and specific, with some bacteriocytes containing two symbiont ribotypes. However, only two of the six possible pairwise combinations of the four ribotypes were observed to cooccur within the same host cells. The results presented here are consistent with the existence of a complex multiple symbiosis in this shipworm species.
A wearable vital signs monitor at the ear for continuous heart rate and Pulse Transit Time measurements

A continuous, wearable and wireless vital signs monitor at the ear is demonstrated. The device has the form factor of a hearing aid and is wirelessly connected to a PC for data recording and analysis. The device monitors the electrocardiogram (ECG) in a single lead configuration, the ballistocardiogram (BCG) with a MEMS triaxial accelerometer, and the photoplethysmograms (PPG) with 660nm and 940nm LED sources and a static photocurrent subtraction analog front end. Clinical tests are conducted, including Valsalva and head-up tilt maneuvers. Peak timing intervals between the ECG, BCG and PPG are extracted and are shown to relate to pre-ejection period and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP). Pulse Transit Time (PTT) extracted from cross-correlation between the PPG and BCG shows improved results compared to the pulse arrival time (PAT) method for tracking changes in MAP.
Effects of monoamine oxidase inhibitors on performance during differential reinforcement of low response rate

The effects of three monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) on performance under a differential-reinforcement-of-low-rate 72-s schedule (DRL 72-s) for water reinforcement were determined. All three drugs (isocarboxazid, iproniazid, phenelzine) reduced response rate and increased reinforcement rate in rats performing under the DRL schedule. Drugs from other classes (alcohol, chlordiazepoxide, morphine, pentobarbital) did not produce similar effects. The ability of MAOI to increase reinforcement rate under a DRL 72-s schedule is similar to that recently reported for tricyclic antidepressants and the two atypical antidepressants mianserin and iprindole. These findings support the contention that the DRL schedule may be useful as a test for identifying new antidepressants and for elucidating the neurochemical effects of antidepressants that are responsible for their therapeutic actions.
Asymmetrical collision of thermal waves in thin films: An analytical solution

Abstract The purpose of this study is to examine thermal wave phenomena in a thin finite film subjected to non-homogeneous boundary conditions. The Cattaneo–Vernotte (C–V) heat conduction model is solved using the superposition principle in conjunction with the solution structure theorems. For comparison purposes, the diffusion model is also solved to demonstrate the flexibility in the technique as well as to show the differences in the results. It is recognized that the solution structure theorems are suitable for homogeneous systems only. However, by performing a functional transformation, the original non-homogeneous partial differential equation governing the physical problem can be cast into a new form with homogeneous boundary conditions such that it can be solved directly with the solution structure theorems. In this study, details of this process will be examined and explored for achieving solutions in such systems. The methodology provides a convenient technique for the solution of the diffusion and C–V heat conduction equations with non-homogeneous boundary conditions.
Multiple Membrane-Compatible Conformations of an Substrate-Binding Component of ECF Transporters

Energy-coupling factor (ECF) transporters compose of a unique subfamily of the vast ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters. Unlike other ABC transporters, the basic architecture of ECF transporters is not symmetric, that their membrane sections include two structurally unrelated units: an energy-coupling component EcfT and a substrate-binding component EcfS. The distinctive composition of ECF transporters is likely to associate with a completely novel transport mechanism. Although several crystal structures of different isolated EcfS have been resolved, the structure of a full ECF transporter complex was available only very recently. Surprisingly, the EcfS orientation in the full ECF transporter is almost perpendicular to an ideal orientation should the EcfS exist as an isolated transmembrane protein. Based on the crystal structures, it is proposed that the transport mechanism of ECF transporters involves the reorientation of EcfS in membrane. Starting with the crystal structure of the folate ECF transporter, we have performed a series of MD simulations to evaluate the stability of EcfS with different orientations in membrane, either isolated or within the full ECF transporter. It is found that the substrate-free EcfS is able to maintain the membrane-parallel orientation regardless of the EcfT binding. That is, in addition to the ideal orientation for an isolated EcfS, the membrane-parallel orientation can be stabilized by the partition of hydrophilic residues near the membrane surface, as well as the accommodation of several charged residues near the membrane center by an enclosed lipid head group in the putative substrate binding site. The tilt angles of the two identified stable orientations of EcfS differ by ∼50 degrees, and the membrane-parallel form shows slightly higher structural deviations due to repartitioned N- and C-terminal helices near the membrane surface.
Microstructural analysis of licking behavior following peripheral administration of bombesin or gastrin-releasing peptide

Abstract To determine the effects of bombesin (BN) and gastrin-releasing peptide [GRP(1–27)] on food intake and the microstructure of licking, the rate and pattern of licking were measured by lickometer after intraperitoneal administration of 2, 4, 8, and 16 μg/kg of each peptide. Although both peptides inhibited intake significantly, the dose-response functions of the peptides were different. At lower doses (2–4 μg/kg) the peptides were equipotent; at higher doses (8–16 μg kg) BN was significantly more potent than GRP(1–27), possibly due to an action of BN on neuromedin B (NMB) receptors. The microstructural results demonstrated that both peptides decreased intake by increasing the rate of decay of licking and decreasing the number of bursts and clusters without changing the intial rate of licking or the size of the bursts and clusters. This combination of microstructural changes is evidence that both peptides increased the postingestive negative feedback effects of the diet without changing the orosensory positive feedback. These results are consistent with, but do not prove, the hypothesis that endogenous GRP(1–27) acts as a postingestive satiety signal in rats.
Bloch theory of entangled photon generation in nonlinear photonic crystals

We present a quantum-mechanical description of parametric down conversion and phase matching of Bloch waves in nonlinear photonic crystals. We discuss the theory in one-dimensional Bragg structures giving a recipe for calculating the down-converted emission strength and direction. We exemplify the discussion by making explicit analytical predictions for the emission amplitude and direction from a one-dimensional structure that consists of alternating layers of Al0.4Ga0.6As and air. We show that the emission is suitable for the extraction of polarization-entangled photons.