cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A rare cause of chronic mesenteric ischemia from fibromuscular dysplasia: a case report

Chronic mesenteric ischemia is a condition that is classically associated with significant atherosclerosis of the abdominal arteries, causing postprandial abdominal pain out of proportion to physical examination. The abdominal pain is exacerbated after meals due to the shunting of blood away from the intestines to the stomach, causing relative ischemia. More than 95% of chronic mesenteric ischemia cases are due to atherosclerosis. We report the first known case of chronic mesenteric ischemia from fibromuscular dysplasia. To the best of our knowledge, this is also the first known case in the literature where postprandial abdominal pain was the presenting symptom of fibromuscular dysplasia. A 44-year-old Caucasian woman with a history of hypertension and preeclampsia, who had taken oral contraceptive pills for 15 years, presented with an intractable, colicky abdominal pain of two weeks duration. This abdominal pain worsened with oral intake. It was also associated with diarrhea and vomiting. Physical examination revealed stage III hypertension out of proportion to her risk factors and diffuse abdominal pain without peritoneal signs. An abdominal computed tomography scan, completed in the emergency room, revealed nonspecific colitis. Laboratory work revealed leukocytosis with a left shift, an erythrocyte sedimentation rate of 79 and a C-reactive protein level of 100. She was started on intravenous flagyl and intravenous ciprofloxacin. However, all microbial cultures were negative including three cultures for clostridium difficile. Urine analysis revealed nephritic range proteinuria. The laboratory profile was within normal limits for perinuclear-anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody, cytoplasmic-anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody, anti-saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody, antinuclear antibody test, celiac profile, lactate, carbohydrate antigen-125 and thyroid stimulating hormone. A colonoscopy was completed, which revealed diffuse colonic lymphoid reactive hyperplasia. A small bowel series was negative for any inflammation. An indium scan, pan-computed tomography scan and transvaginal ultrasound were also negative. Magnetic resonance angiography of her abdomen revealed proximal superior mesenteric artery stenosis, which was confirmed by computed tomography angiogram findings of severe proximal and distal superior mesenteric artery stenosis, consistent with the appearance of fibromuscular dysplasia on angiography in the absence of vasculitis or atherosclerotic disease. The patient's superior mesenteric artery stenosis was subsequently angioplastied suboptimally and had to be stented with an Angioplus stent. One month after she was admitted, her abdominal pain and tolerance to oral feeds improved tremendously. Fibromuscular dysplasia most commonly presents with renal artery stenosis, which rarely causes abdominal pain. This case illustrates how fibromuscular dysplasia can present as a rare cause of chronic mesenteric ischemia, similar to chronic mesenteric ischemia from atherosclerosis.
Cytokinesis: GAP Gap

The central spindle regulates cleavage furrow formation and cytokinesis and is composed of antiparallel microtubules bundled by microtubule-associated proteins and kinesin motors. One key protein in the central spindle is a Rho family GTPase-activating protein, CYK-4/MgcRacGAP, whose target is the subject of two new studies that arrive at divergent models.
Base Connection Retrofits for High Mast Towers and Pole Luminaries used for Roadway and Bridge Lighting

In-service experience has clearly demonstrated that the base welded connection of the high mast tower or pole luminaire structure is extremely fatigue sensitive. In addition, laboratory research has shown that the commonly used base welded connection details provide a fatigue resistance aligned with either Category E for the full penetration weld type connection or category E′ for the fillet welded socket type connection. These base type connection details limit the service stress range levels from 2.6 ksi (17.9 MPa) (E′) to 4.5 ksi (31.0 MPa) (E). State Departments of Transportation with these common transportation structures for roadway and bridge lighting have experienced significant base connection cracking and total failure after short service lives. One State Department of Transportation had installed eighteen 140 ft (42.7 m) tall high mast towers in 2000. In late 2003, one of these towers failed, and 17 others exhibited base cracks. All eighteen towers were removed with less than 3 years of service...
Testing Hydrodynamic Models of LMC X-4 with Ultraviolet and X-Ray Spectra

We compare the predictions of hydrodynamic models of the LMC X-4 X-ray binary system with observations of UV P Cygni lines with the Goddard High Resolution Spectrograph and Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph on the Hubble Space Telescope. The hydrodynamic model determines density and velocity fields of the stellar wind, wind-compressed disk, accretion stream, Keplerian accretion disk, and accretion disk wind. We use a Monte Carlo code to determine the UV P Cygni line profiles by simulating the radiative transfer of UV photons that originate on the star and are scattered in the wind. The qualitative orbital variation predicted is similar to that observed, although the model fails to reproduce the strong orbital asymmetry (the observed absorption is strongest for > 0.5). The model predicts a mideclipse X-ray spectrum, caused almost entirely by Compton scattering, with a factor of 4 less flux than observed with ASCA. We discuss how the model may need to be altered to explain the spectral variability of the system.
Two new monoclonal antibodies provide immunohistochemical evidence for the unique biochemical similarity of the mouse globus pallidus, entopeduncular nucleus and substantia nigra pars reticulata

Similarities in cellular morphology, afferentation, efferentation, and neurotransmitter content between the internal and external parts of the pallidum and the substantia nigra pars reticulata have long been noted. Here we present evidence that the globus pallidus, entopedunucular nucleus and substantia nigra pars reticulata are more closely related to each other antigenically than to any other anatomical subdivision in the murine central nervous system. In a monoclonal antibody library composed of 20 distinctive lines selected from 300 hybridomas screened immunohistochemically on mouse brain sagittal sections we found two antibodies whose staining patterns distinguish the pallidum and substantia nigra pars reticulata from all other brain gray matter regions but stain these two divisions similarly. One monoclonal antibody, F1-134, stains all brain gray matter regions moderately but gives intense staining of the globus pallidus, entopeduncular nucleus, and substantia nigra pars reticulata only. Another monoclonal antibody, F1-20, stains different brain gray matter regions to varying degrees but shows a complete and exclusive exclusion of staining from the globus pallidus, entopeduncular nucleus and substantia nigra pars reticulata. These results support the tripartite pallidum hypothesis. This study also provides an example of how the monoclonal antibody library strategy can be applied to general problems of brain organization.
Multiple foreign body ingestion and ileal perforation

Foreign body ingestion is a common problem encountered in the pediatric age group. The swallowed object is often passed with little or no morbidity. Problems ensue if the ingested foreign body is hazardous, is multiple, or becomes impacted. We describe an ileal perforation following the ingestion of an alkaline disc battery, a magnet, and a steel ball impacted in the ileum for about 48 h. The magnet and the steel ball were attracted to each other, forming a composite unit. The disc battery and the magnet were attracted to each other across a loop of ileum, causing necrosis and perforation of the ileum.
TOTAL NEUTRON CROSS SECTION FOR URANIUM FROM 20 KEV TO 20 MEV

The total neutron cross section of normal uranium has been measured for neutron energies from 20 kev to 7.6 Mev and at 17, 19, and 20 Mev. When combined with other published work in the 7-14 Mev range, the result is a smooth cross-section curve up to 20 Mev. The curve fits smoothly on the surface showing total neutron cross section as a function of both atomic weight and neutron energy.
Non-Abelian gauge field theories on a lattice and spontaneous breaking of chiral symmetry

The perturbation theory for a color-quark gauge theory on a spatial lattice is developed in time-dependent form. Graphical rules are suggested. These methods are then applied to study the nature of the ..gamma../sub 5/ symmetry exhibited when the bare-quark-mass term is zero. Investigation of the quark proper self-energy leads to the conclusion that the ..gamma../sub 5/ symmetry is realized in the Nambu-Goldstone mode. A Bethe-Salpeter equation for the proper GAMMA/sup 5/ vertex is solved in the ladder approximation, and shown to exhibit zero-mass poles. (AIP)
Evaluation of analytic deflection-limiting commands

Abstract Command signals that can move a flexible system without residual vibration and also limit the transient deflection are very useful, but difficult to create. Historically, these types of commands have been generated via numerical optimization. A method for analytically creating deflection-limiting commands is described and evaluated. Characteristics of the command profile are presented as a function of deflection limit and move distance. Experimental results from a large bridge crane demonstrate key results. The major advantage of this method is that the problem is solvable in closed form, rather than via numerical optimization.
Radiation nephropathy after bone marrow transplantation

Keywords: total-body irradiation, hemolytic-uremic syndrome, thrombocytopenic purpura, endothelial injury, cyclosporine, ACE inhibitors, mesangiolysis
Structure and function of a benthic invertebrate stream community as influenced by beaver (Castor canadensis)

Beaver (Castor canadensis) affect the benthic invertebrate community of small woodland streams in Quebec through habitat modifications. Their activities influence community structure through the replacement of lotic taxa by lentic forms and community function by increasing the absolute importance of collectors and predators while decreasing the relative importance of shredders and scrapers in impounded sites. At our study site during the 1983 ice-free season, standing stocks of coarse particulate organic matter (>1 mm) were 2–5 times greater (P<0.05) in impounded sites than riffle sites in spring and summer. Fine (212 μm–1 mm) and very fine (0.5 μm–212 μm) particulate organic matter were 3–10 times greater (P<0.05) in impounded sites in all seasons. Chlorophyll a standing stocks did not differ statistically among sites. Total density and biomass of invertebrates in impoundments were 2–5 times greater (P<0.05) than riffle sites in spring and summer, but statistically similar in autumn. Generic diversity (H′) was greater (P<0.05) in unaltered sites in autumn. Non-impounded sites were dominated by Simuliidae, Tanytarsini chironomids, scraping mayflies and net spinning caddisflies while impounded sites were characterized by Tanypodinae and Chironomini chironomids, predacious odonates, Tubificidae, and filtering pelycopods. Our results suggest that current paradigms applied to lotic ecosystems need to be reevaluated to incorporate the influence of beaver upon invertebrate communities.
Regulation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-2 (Flk-1) Expression in Vascular Endothelial Cells

We have previously reported the existence of a synergistic interaction between vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in the induction of angiogenesisin vitro.Here we demonstrate that bFGF increases VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR-2/Flk-1) expression: mRNA levels were increased by 4.5- to 8.0-fold and total protein by 2.0- to 3.5-fold, in bovine microvascular endothelial (BME), aortic endothelial (BAE), and transformed fetal aortic (GM7373) endothelial cells. VEGF itself did not affect VEGFR-2 expression, and neither bFGF nor VEGF altered expression of FGF receptor-1. We also show that synergism occurs at the level of proliferation when this is measured in a three-dimensional but not in a conventional two-dimensional assay. Differences in the level of VEGFR-2 expression were also observed when cells were grown on or within collagen gels under different conditions: mRNA levels were lowest under sparse conditions, increased 20- to 26-fold at confluence, and increased even further (57-fold) when cells were cultured in suspension in three-dimensional collagen gels. Finally, a synergistic increase was seen in the level of expression of urokinase and urokinase receptor mRNAs when cells were exposed to bFGF and VEGF for 4 days. These findings demonstrate that the level of VEGFR-2 expression can be modulated by environmental factors including cytokines and the geometry of the culture conditions and provide some insight into the mechanisms of synergism between bFGF and VEGF in the induction of angiogenesisin vitro.
Evidence of a role for B cell-activating factor of the TNF family in the pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

Background The polypoid form of chronic rhinosinusitis (chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps [CRSwNP]) is a highly prevalent disease that often requires surgical intervention for treatment. Nasal polyps contain large quantities of B lymphocytes and immunoglobulin as well as eosinophils. Objectives The objective of this study was to investigate the expression of B cell–activating factor of the TNF family (BAFF), an important regulator of class-switch recombination and immunoglobulin production, in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Methods We collected nasal tissue and nasal lavage fluid from patients with CRS and control subjects. We assayed mRNA for BAFF and B-lymphocyte markers, CD20 and transmembrane activator and calcium-modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor, by using real-time PCR, and assayed BAFF protein by using ELISA and immunohistochemistry. Results BAFF mRNA was significantly increased in nasal polyps from patients with CRSwNP ( P Conclusion Overproduction of BAFF in nasal polyps may contribute to the pathogenesis of CRSwNP via the local induction of IgA and activation of eosinophils.
Hepatic triglyceride lipase deficiency in liver disease

The activity of post-heparin lipases in patients with alcoholic hepatitis and viral hepatitis was evaluated. Lipoprotein lipase and hepatic triglyceride lipase were differentiated by assay under high and low salt conditions and also by separation on heparin-agarose affinity chromatography columns. The mean activity of hepatic triglyceride lipase in the sera of liver disease patients was only 21-24% of the mean of controls, but lipoprotein lipase in patients' sera was not different from normal levels. Hepatic triglyceride lipase deficiency may partially account for the accumulation of a triglyceride-rich low density lipoprotein in liver disease.
Photochemical induced changes of in vitro estrogenic activity of steroid hormones

Steroid estrogens are endocrine disrupting contaminants frequently detected in natural waters. Because these estrogens can elicit significant biological responses in aquatic organisms, it is important to study their rates and pathways of degradation in natural waters and to identify whether the transformation products retain biological activity. Photochemical kinetics experiments were conducted under simulated solar light for the hormones 17β-estradiol (E2), 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2), estrone (E1), equilin (EQ), and equilenin (EQN) under direct and indirect photolysis conditions. All of these hormones were susceptible to direct photodegradation, with half-lives ranging from 40 min for E1 to about 8 h for E2 and EE2. Indirect photolysis experiments with added Suwannee River fulvic acid (SRFA) lead to faster degradation rates for E2, EE2, and EQ. Added SRFA caused slower photodegradation rates for E1 and EQN, indicating that it acts primarily as an inner filter for these analytes. The well-established yeast estrogen screen (YES) was used to measure the estrogenicity of the analytes and their photoproducts. Results of YES assay experiments show that only the direct photolysis of E1 gave estrogenic products. Lumiestrone, the major E1 direct photolysis product, was isolated and characterized. It formed in 53% yield and exhibited moderate estrogenic activity. When photolysed in the presence of perinaphthenone, a potent synthetic sensitizer, E1 degraded via an indirect photolysis pathway and did not produce lumiestrone or any other active products. These results suggest that under typical natural water conditions photochemical reactions of E2, EE2, EQ, and EQN are expected to produce inactive products while E1 will give the estrogenic product lumiestrone in moderate yield.
Prediction of province-level outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease in Iran using a zero-inflated negative binomial model.

Abstract To identify events that could predict province-level frequency of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks in Iran, 5707 outbreaks reported from April 1995 to March 2002 were studied. A zero-inflated negative binomial model was used to estimate the probability of a ‘no-outbreak’ status and the number of outbreaks in a province, using the number of previous occurrences of FMD for the same or adjacent provinces and season as covariates. For each province, the probability of observing no outbreak was negatively associated with the number of outbreaks in the same province in the previous month (odds ratio [OR] = 0.06, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.01, 0.30) and in ‘the second previous month’ (OR = 0.10, 95% CI: 0.02, 0.51), the total number of outbreaks in the second previous month in adjacent provinces (OR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.36, 0.91) and the season (winter [OR = 0.18, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.55] and spring [OR = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.09, 0.81], compared with summer). The expected number of outbreaks in a province was positively associated with number of outbreaks in the same province in previous month (coefficient [coef] = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.66, 0.82) and in the second previous month (coef = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.16, 0.31), total number of outbreaks in adjacent provinces in the previous month (coef = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.22, 0.41) and season (fall [coef = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.07, 0.33] and spring [coef = 0.18, 95% CI: 0.05, 0.31], compared to summer); however, number of outbreaks was negatively associated with the total number of outbreaks in adjacent provinces in the second previous month (coef = −0.19, 95% CI: −0.28, −0.09). The findings indicate that the probability of an outbreak (and the expected number of outbreaks if any) may be predicted based on previous province information, which could help decision-makers allocate resources more efficiently for province-level disease control measures. Further, the study illustrates use of zero inflated negative binomial model to study diseases occurrence where disease is infrequently observed.
Under Diagnosis and Over Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer

Purpose: We quantified the rates of over and under diagnosis of prostate cancer in 2 large patient cohorts during the last 15 years.Materials and Methods: A total of 2,126 men with clinical stage T1c prostate cancer were treated with radical prostatectomy during 1 of the 3 periods 1989 to 1995, 1995 to 2001 and 2001 to 2005. The respective proportions of men with a tumor that met our criteria for over diagnosis (0.5 cm3 or less, confined to the prostate with clear surgical margins and no Gleason pattern 4 or 5) and under diagnosis (nonorgan confined, pathological stage T3 or greater, or positive surgical margins) were examined.Results: The proportion of men with an over diagnosed tumor was 1.3% to 7.1%. The proportion with prostate cancer that was under diagnosed was 25% to 30%. An ancillary finding was that decreasing the prostate specific antigen threshold for biopsy from 4.0 to 2.5 ng/ml in the screened population resulted in a lower rate of under diagnosis from 30% to 26%, a higher rate of over diagno...
The utility of midtrimester ultrasound assessment of the subcutaneous space in predicting cesarean wound complications

AbstractObjective: To evaluate the association between cesarean wound complications and thickness of the subcutaneous space within the anterior abdomen at the midtrimester fetal anatomical survey.Methods: In this case-control study, cases were identified using an ICD9 code for wound complications of cesarean delivery. For each case, we identified the woman with the next consecutive midtrimester ultrasound who had a cesarean delivery without a wound complication, matched on age and race, as the control. A blinded investigator measured subcutaneous space at three distinct suprapubic levels in the midsagital plane.Results: Of 7228 women with a cesarean delivery, 123 (1.7%) had a wound complication. Seventy-nine cases were eligible. Midline suprapubic subcutaneous thickness did not differ between cases and controls at the superior, middle or inferior locations (p ≥ 0.35). Body mass index was moderately correlated with ultrasound-derived measurements (r ≥ 0.63; p < 0.001). The incidence of vertical skin incisi...
Molecular Composition of the Protein Matrix of Developing Human Dental Enamel

The protein matrix of fetal human dental enamel was isolated and fractionated by chromatographic and electrophoretic procedures. Nine principal protein fractions were isolated and characterized. Possible inter-relationships of these proteins and their comparison with data from other species were examined. Significant differences between human proteins and those described for cow or pig enamel were identified.
A vertical handover decision based context awareness guaranteeing the user perceived quality of service

Most typically, trend of future cellular network is to give access to a large number of applications such as: VoIP, videoconferencing, interactive gaming, multimedia services, etc. The integration of heterogeneous wireless networks is designed to improve the network performances, to guarantee high Quality of Service (QoS) and to provide ubiquitous broadband access. Major Quality of Service assessment techniques are based on radio resource measurements and many applications require strict QoS to pursue its connection when the users roam across different radio access technologies. Handover making decision is based on various QoS metrics indicating the network access provided quality but does not necessarily imply that improve the user quality perception. The purpose of this paper is to investigate all type of information that can formed the context-aware which integrate the Quality of Experience (QoE) or the Perceived Quality of Service (PQoS) by the user in making handover decision. We propose a handover making decision algorithm based on the user requirements which reduces the decision delay in network selection by reducing the number of the target PoAs for different class of service features and improve the user perceived quality.
An immunofluorescent method for specific staining of eosinophil granule major basic protein

Abstract We have developed an indirect immunofluorescent method for detection of the guinea pig eosinophil granule major basic protein (MBP) in formalin-fixed, paraffinembedded tissues. The method is specific for MBP, permits MBP localization in cells and tissues, and eliminates eosinophil non-specific fluorescent staining.
SEED PREFERENCES OF WINTERING HENSLOW'S SPARROWS

Abstract Abstract. The Henslow's Sparrow (Ammodramus henslowii), a species of conservation concern, winters primarily in longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) forest ecosystems in the southeastern U.S. These pine savannas have been reduced to 5% of their former range, with remaining patches requiring active management with fire to maintain characteristic structure and plant diversity. Wintering Henslow's Sparrow abundance tracks growing-season fires; bird abundance peaks in the winter following burning, then declines in subsequent winters. Fire also determines dominant plant species, suggesting that Henslow's Sparrows may respond to abundance of preferred seeds. To determine diet preferences of Henslow's Sparrows, we tested seeds from eight species of native plants from southeastern Louisiana pine savannas, including species common in the first winter after burning (‘fire grasses’) and species that increase in abundance in the second and subsequent winters after burning. Seed consumption by individual birds dif...
A model of evapotranspiration based on the theory of maximum entropy production

[1] Building on a proof-of-concept study of energy balance over dry soil, a model of evapotranspiration is proposed based on the theory of maximum entropy production (MEP). The MEP formalism leads to an analytical solution of evaporation rate (latent heat flux), together with sensible and ground heat fluxes, as a function of surface soil temperature, surface humidity, and net radiation. The model covers the entire range of soil wetness from dry to saturation. The MEP model of transpiration is formulated as a special case of bare soil evaporation. Test of the MEP model using field observations indicates that the model performs well over bare soil and canopy.
Hedgehog is required for CySC self-renewal but does not contribute to the GSC niche in the Drosophila testis

The Drosophila testis harbors two types of stem cells: germ line stem cells (GSCs) and cyst stem cells (CySCs). Both stem cell types share a physical niche called the hub, located at the apical tip of the testis. The niche produces the JAK/STAT ligand Unpaired (Upd) and BMPs to maintain CySCs and GSCs, respectively. However, GSCs also require BMPs produced by CySCs, and as such CySCs are part of the niche for GSCs. Here we describe a role for another secreted ligand, Hedgehog (Hh), produced by niche cells, in the self-renewal of CySCs. Hh signaling cell-autonomously regulates CySC number and maintenance. The Hh and JAK/STAT pathways act independently and non-redundantly in CySC self-renewal. Finally, Hh signaling does not contribute to the niche function of CySCs, as Hh-sustained CySCs are unable to maintain GSCs in the absence of Stat92E. Therefore, the extended niche function of CySCs is solely attributable to JAK/STAT pathway function.
Nested biological variation and speciation

The modes of speciation that are thought to have contributed most to the generation of biodiversity require population differentiation as the initial stage in the speciation process. Consequently, a complete understanding of the mechanisms of speciation requires that the process be examined not just after speciation is complete, or nearly so, but also much earlier. Because reproductive isolation defines biological species, and it evolves slowly, study of the process may require a prohibitive span of time. Even if speciation could be observed directly, selection of populations in the process of speciation is typically difficult or impossible, because those that will ultimately undergo speciation cannot be distinguished from those that will differentiate but never assume the status of new biological species. One means of circumventing this problem is to study speciation in taxa comprising several sibling species, at least one of which exhibits extensive population differentiation. We illustrate this approach by exploring patterns of population variation in the post–glacial radiation of the threespine stickleback, Gasterosteus aculeatus . We focus on lacustrine populations and species within this complex, demonstrating parallel axes of divergence within populations, among populations and among species. The pattern that emerges is one of parallel relationships between phenotype and fitness at all three hierarchical levels, a pattern that facilitates exploration of the causes and consequences of speciation and secondary contact. A second outcome of this exploration is the observation that speciation can be the consequence of a cascade of effects, beginning with selection on trophic or other characteristics that in turn force the evolution of other population characteristics that precipitate speciation. Neither of these conclusions could have been reached without comparative studies of wild populations at several hierarchical levels, a conclusion reinforced by a brief survey of similar efforts to elucidate the process of speciation. We address the issues most likely to be resolved using this approach, and suggest that comparisons of natural variation within taxa at several hierarchical levels may substantially increase our understanding of the speciation process.
Estimating glomerular filtration rate from serum creatinine and cystatin C.

A b s t r ac t Background Estimates of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) that are based on serum creatinine are routinely used; however, they are imprecise, potentially leading to the overdiagnosis of chronic kidney disease. Cystatin C is an alternative filtration marker for estimating GFR. Methods Using cross-sectional analyses, we developed estimating equations based on cystatin C alone and in combination with creatinine in diverse populations totaling 5352 participants from 13 studies. These equations were then validated in 1119 participants from 5 different studies in which GFR had been measured. Cystatin and creatinine assays were traceable to primary reference materials. Results Mean measured GFRs were 68 and 70 ml per minute per 1.73 m 2 of body-surface area in the development and validation data sets, respectively. In the validation data set, the creatinine–cystatin C equation performed better than equations that used creatinine or cystatin C alone. Bias was similar among the three equations, with a median difference between measured and estimated GFR of 3.9 ml per minute per 1.73 m 2 with the combined equation, as compared with 3.7 and 3.4 ml per minute per 1.73 m 2 with the creatinine equation and the cystatin C equation (P = 0.07 and P = 0.05), respectively. Precision was improved with the combined equation (interquartile range of the difference, 13.4 vs. 15.4 and 16.4 ml per minute per 1.73 m 2 , respectively [P = 0.001 and P 30% of measured GFR, 8.5 vs. 12.8 and 14.1, respectively [P<0.001 for both comparisons]). In participants whose estimated GFR based on creatinine was 45 to 74 ml per minute per 1.73 m 2 , the combined equation improved the classification of measured GFR as either less than 60 ml per minute per 1.73 m 2 or greater than or equal to 60 ml per minute per 1.73 m 2 (net reclassification index, 19.4% [P<0.001]) and correctly reclassified 16.9% of those with an estimated GFR of 45 to 59 ml per minute per 1.73 m 2 as having a GFR of 60 ml or higher per minute per 1.73 m 2 . Conclusions The combined creatinine–cystatin C equation performed better than equations based on either of these markers alone and may be useful as a confirmatory test for chronic kidney disease. (Funded by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.)
An optimal medium access control with partial observations for sensor networks

We consider medium access control (MAC) in multihop sensor networks, where only partial information about the shared medium is available to the transmitter. We model our setting as a queuing problem in which the service rate of a queue is a function of a partially observed Markov chain representing the available bandwidth, and in which the arrivals are controlled based on the partial observations so as to keep the system in a desirable mildly unstable regime. The optimal controller for this problem satisfies a separation property: we first compute a probability measure on the state space of the chain, namely the information state, then use this measure as the new state on which the control decisions are based. We give a formal description of the system considered and of its dynamics, we formalize and solve an optimal control problem, and we show numerical simulations to illustrate with concrete examples properties of the optimal control law. We show how the ergodic behavior of our queuing model is characterized by an invariant measure over all possible information states, and we construct that measure. Our results can be specifically applied for designing efficient and stable algorithms for medium access control in multiple-accessed systems, in particular for sensor networks.
In Vivo Demonstration and Quantification of Intracellular Bacillus anthracis in Lung Epithelial Cells

Inhalational anthrax is initiated by the entry of Bacillus anthracis spores into the lung. A critical early event in the establishment of an infection is the dissemination of spores from the lung. Using in vitro cell culture assays, we previously demonstrated that B. anthracis spores are capable of entering into epithelial cells of the lung and crossing a barrier of lung epithelial cells without apparent disruption of the barrier integrity, suggesting a novel portal for spores to disseminate from the lung. However, in vivo evidence for spore uptake by epithelial cells has been lacking. Here, using a mouse model, we present evidence that B. anthracis spores are taken up by lung epithelial cells in vivo soon after spores are delivered into the lung. Immunofluorescence staining of thin sections of lungs from spore-challenged BALB/c mice revealed that spores were associated with the epithelial surfaces in the airway and the alveoli at 2 and 4 h postinoculation. Confocal analysis further indicated that some of the associated spores were surrounded by F-actin, demonstrating intracellular localization. These observations were further confirmed and substantiated by a quantitative method that first isolated lung cells from spore-challenged mice and then stained these cells with antibodies specific for epithelial cells and spores. The results showed that substantial amounts of spores were taken up by lung epithelial cells in vivo. These data, combined with those in our previous reports, provided powerful evidence that the lung epithelia were directly targeted by B. anthracis spores at early stages of infection.
Decreased in vivo acetaldehyde oxidation and hepatic aldehyde dehydrogenase inhibition in C57BL and DBA mice treated with carbon tetrachloride.

Male C57BL6J (C57) and DBA2J (DBA) mice were dosed with 500 μl/kg ig CCl4, 24 hr before a 3.25 g/kg ip dose of ethanol. The relative bioavailability of CCl4 was similar in both mouse strains. CCl4 pretreatment produced genotypically related decreases in blood ethanol elimination rates with DBA mice showing the greater decrease. Blood acetaldehyde concentrations were significantly elevated in the CCl4-pretreated animals of both strains. DBA CCl4-pretreated mice exhibited significantly higher blood acetaldehyde concentrations than C57 mice 1, 2, 3, and 4 hr after ethanol administration. CCl4 pretreatment resulted in acetaldehyde elevations of approximately threefold in C57 mice four- to fivefold in DBA mice. Four hours after the ethanol dose, animals were sacrificed for enzymatic analyses of hepatic aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) and alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) activity. The specific activities and activity per gram of cytosolic and mitochondrial ALDH were decreased in both mouse strains. ADH activity was not significantly altered by CCl4 pretreatment. Liver necrosis, as measured by serum alanine aminotransferase activity, was similar in both strains (approx fivefold increase). These data indicate that CCl4 increased blood acetaldehyde concentrations by inhibiting hepatic cytosolic and mitochondrial ALDH and that the degree of blood acetaldehyde elevation is different in the two inbred mouse strains C57 and DBA.
Use of adrenergic agonists during CPR in adults

Adrenergic therapy is indicated during CPR to increase the coronary and cerebral perfusion pressure. Epinephrine hydrochloride at a dosage of 1.0 mg has been the most commonly used adrenergic agonist for resuscitation of adults, but there has been considerable controversy over whether higher doses should be given. At the 1992 National Conference on Emergency Cardiac Care and CPR, preliminary data were presented from three large, prospective, blinded, unpublished clinical trials that included a comparison of standard-dose (0.02 mg/kg or approximately 1.0 mg) and high-dose (approximately 0.1–0.2 mg/kg) epinephrine in 2,415 adults. Although the studies differed from each other somewhat in design, the results were remarkably consistent across all three studies: there was no difference in survival between the standard- and high-dose epinephrine regimens. There were no consistent adverse effects associated with the use of higher-than-standard doses of epinephrine. The consensus of the Adrenergic Agonist Panel was that 1) epinephrine by IV bolus should remain the drug of choice for use during resuscitation in adults; 2) data presented from the clinical trials in adults do not support an increase in the recommended dose of epinephrine; 3) because there was no evidence of significant harm from the use of high-dose epinephrine, it was felt that use of such dosages should receive a II-b recommendation pending the results of further ongoing clinical trials; 4) the standard IV bolus dosage of epinephrine should be simplified to 1.0 mg every three to five minutes; and 5) the endotracheal dosage of epinephrine should be at least 2 to 2.5 times larger than the peripheral IV dosage.
Effects of bupivacaine and tetrodotoxin on carrageenan-induced hind paw inflammation in rats (Part 2): cytokines and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases in dorsal root ganglia and spinal cord.

Background The authors previously showed that bupivacaine and tetrodotoxin via contralateral or ipsilateral sciatic block, but not systemically, attenuate local edema and hyperalgesia induced by carrageenan hind paw injection in rats. Bupivacaine, by all three routes, suppressed systemic cytokine activation, whereas tetrodotoxin was ineffective by all three routes. In the current study, the authors examined cytokine and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation in lumbar dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) and spinal cord after carrageenan paw injections and sciatic blocks with either bupivacaine or tetrodotoxin. Methods Ten groups of rats (n = 3-5) received injections in the following sites: right or left hind paw or right forepaw (carrageenan or saline) and left sciatic block (with epinephrine plus bupivacaine, tetrodotoxin, or saline; repeated 6 h later). Fifteen hours later, tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 1beta, p38 MAPK, and phosphorylated p38 MAPK were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in DRGs and in the spinal cord. Results Carrageenan-induced hind paw inflammation enhanced tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-1beta production in bilateral DRGs and spinal cord and enhanced p38 MAPK activation in bilateral DRGs. These pathways were not activated after forepaw injection of carrageenan, suggesting a segmental mechanism. Neither bupivacaine nor tetrodotoxin inhibited cytokine and p38 MAPK activation after carrageenan injection. Conclusion Ipsilateral or contralateral sciatic blockade using either bupivacaine or tetrodotoxin does not inhibit carrageenan-induced activation of cytokines and p-38 MAPK in spinal cord and DRGs. Possible explanations may include incomplete degrees of conduction blockade or afferent signaling via saphenous nerves.
Models, Mathematics and Metaphors

In exposing the process by which scientific knowledge is accumulated, the epistemologist deals primarily with two problems. First, what is the logical structure of the statements of science, and second, what is the experimental content of the entities in these statements? Essentially, these are the problems of the syntax of scientific language on the one hand, and the vocabulary, on the other.
The role of aromatase inhibitors as adjuvant therapy in early breast cancer

Endocrine therapy is now established as the treatment option of choice for postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive advanced breast cancer. The benefit of the third-generation aromatase inhibitors (AIs) in this setting has prompted their evaluation in the treatment of early breast cancer. This article reviews the current clinical status of AIs as adjuvant therapy for early-stage breast cancer in postmenopausal women, focusing on the largest adjuvant breast cancer study till date to provide data, the ‘Arimidex’, Tamoxifen, Alone or in Combination (ATAC) trial.
Population-based study to determine mortality in spina bifida: New York State Congenital Malformations Registry, 1983 to 2006.

Background: The lifetime risk of death among individuals with spina bifida is 10-times higher compared with the general population. A population-based analysis on cause-specific mortality among individuals spina bifida is lacking. Methods: Using statewide, population-based New York Congenital Malformations Registry, we examined all births between years 1983 and 2006, and identified 1988 births with spina bifida and 10,951 births with congenital hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (CHPS). We linked registry records to birth and death files from vital records, and determined age- and cause-specific mortality for isolated and multiple spina bifida, and compared the findings with the less fatal CHPS. Results: Mortality in spina bifida is significantly high compared with CHPS (16.9% vs. 0.96%, respectively). The probability of survival in spina bifida was lower compared with CHPS. A majority of the deaths in spina bifida occurred in infants within the first year of birth; however, an increased risk of death persisted in young adulthood for both isolated and multiple cases of spina bifida. The common causes of death in children with spina bifida were hydrocephalus, infections, cardiac anomalies, pneumonia, and pulmonary embolism; while infections, heart or kidney failure, injuries and neoplasms contributed to deaths in adults. Conclusion: We conclude that mortality in spina bifida is a large concern, and individuals living with the defect require improved clinical care for lethal medical complications. Primary prevention of spina bifida through mandatory folic acid fortification remains as the best strategy to reduce both disability and mortality associated with this defect across the world. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 100:563–575, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mapping snow grain size on the ice sheets with a laser altimeter

Recent development of a spaceborne laser altimeter system for mapping changes in ice sheet elevation has also provided a surprising opportunity for mapping slow grain size. This new technique exploits the relationship between snow grain size and surface reflectance in the near-infrared wavelengths. A discrete-ordinates radiative transfer model is used to model the relationship between surface reflectance and grain size. Model inputs include illumination and viewing conditions thus requiring slope/aspect information. This method has been successfully tested using imaging spectrometer data at 1040 nm. An active sensor, as a Nd:YAG laser with a wavelength of 1064 nm could also be used. The Geoscience Laser Altimeter System (GLAS), due to launch in 2001, will provide all the required inputs for this grain size determination method including apparent surface reflectance and slope/aspect of the ground footprint. Though this method has not yet been experimentally validated, model simulations show that it should provide the most accurate estimates of snow surface layer grain size to date.
Scour Marks in Snow

ABSTRACT Scour marks of two kinds were observed after a snow-fall: scour-remnant ridges (new name), and current crescents (Peabody, 1947) of large dimensions. Scour-remnant ridges preserved within the crescents showed the latter to have formed in relation to symmetrical or asymmetrical, helicoidal eddies having curved quasi-horizontal axes. The inferred flow pattern is consistent with that given by fluid mechanics theory as the pattern associated with a bluff object mounted on a flat plate.
A Hyperfusogenic F Protein Enhances the Oncolytic Potency of a Paramyxovirus Simian Virus 5 P/V Mutant without Compromising Sensitivity to Type I Interferon

Viral fusogenic membrane proteins have been proposed as tools to increase the potency of oncolytic viruses, but there is a need for mechanisms to control the spread of fusogenic viruses in normal versus tumor cells. We have previously shown that a mutant of the paramyxovirus simian virus 5 (SV5) that harbors mutations in the P/V gene from the canine parainfluenza virus (P/V-CPI(-)) is a potent inducer of type I interferon (IFN) and apoptosis and is restricted for spread through normal but not tumor cells in vitro. Here, we have used the cytopathic P/V-CPI(-) as a backbone vector to test the hypothesis that a virus expressing a hyperfusogenic glycoprotein will be a more effective oncolytic vector but will retain sensitivity to IFN. A P/V mutant virus expressing an F protein with a glycine-to-alanine substitution in the fusion peptide (P/V-CPI(-)-G3A) was more fusogenic than the parental P/V-CPI(-) mutant. In two model prostate tumor cell lines which are defective in IFN production (LNCaP and DU145), the hyperfusogenic P/V-CPI(-)-G3A mutant had normal growth properties at low multiplicities of infection and was more effective than the parental P/V-CPI(-) mutant at cell killing in vitro. However, in PC3 cells which produce and respond to IFN, the hyperfusogenic P/V-CPI(-)-G3A mutant was attenuated for growth and spread. Killing of PC3 cells was equivalent between the parental P/V-CPI(-) mutant and the hyperfusogenic P/V-CPI(-)-G3A mutant. In a nude mouse model using LNCaP cells, the hyperfusogenic P/V-CPI(-)-G3A mutant was more effective than P/V-CPI(-) at reducing tumor burden. In the case of DU145 tumors, the two vectors based on P/V-CPI(-) were equally effective at limiting tumor growth. Together, our results provide proof of principle that a cytopathic SV5 P/V mutant can serve as an oncolytic virus and that the oncolytic effectiveness of P/V mutants can be enhanced by a fusogenic membrane protein without compromising sensitivity to IFN. The potential advantages of SV5-based oncolytic vectors are discussed.
POTENTIAL ECOTOXICOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF ELEVATED CONCENTRATIONS OF STRONTIUM IN EGGSHELLS OF PASSERINE BIRDS

Abstract ABSTRACT We investigated the occurrence and potential ecotoxicological significance of elevated concentrations of strontium (Sr) in eggshells of nine passerine birds from four regions in Arizona. Concentrations of Sr in eggshells ranged from 70 to 1360 µg g−1 dry weight (overall mean = 684 ± 345 SD µg g−1 dw) for the four regions. 23% of the eggshells had Sr concentrations greater than 1000 µg g−1 dw. To our knowledge, these are among the highest levels of Sr that have been reported in bird eggshells in North America. Of the nine species, Brown-headed Cowbirds (Molothrus ater) had the greatest concentrations of Sr. There was a significant positive correlation between Sr and calcium (Ca), and between barium (Ba) and Ca. Ca, Sr, and Ba interact with each other and can exert similar chemical and pharmacological effects. Mean (n ≥ 3) eggshell∶egg ratios for Sr varied with species and ranged from 6.1∶1 to 40.2∶1; ratios for individual eggs reached 92.7∶1. Mean Sr/Ca values ranged from 1.3 × 10−3 to ...
A History of Severe-Storm-Intercept Field Programs

Abstract Efforts to study severe convective storms and tornadoes by intercepting them either on the ground or on airborne platforms are highlighted. Airborne sorties into or near waterspouts in the Florida Keys with instruments were made in the late 1960s and the 1970s. The main goals of the first organized ground-based severe storm intercept field programs in the 1970s at the National Severe Storms Laboratory and at the University of Oklahoma were to verify severe weather signatures detected by a remote Doppler radar, to identify cloud features that could aid storm spotters, and to estimate wind speeds in tornadoes based on the photogrammetric analysis of tornado debris movies. Instruments were subsequently developed that could be carried along on intercept vehicles to measure in situ electric field change, thermodynamic variables, and wind, near the ground and aloft. Beginning in the late 1980s, portable and mobile Doppler radars were developed that could be used to make estimates of the maximum wind sp...