cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Use of clonidine in the prevention and management of neonatal abstinence syndrome

Introduction. Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is a complicated medical condition with treatment regimens that traditionally have included methadone and other opioids, barbiturates, and benzodiazepines. We describe a case series in which clonidine was used for the prevention and management of patients with NAS. Patients and Methods. Medical records of infants treated with clonidine for NAS from January 2003 to March 2006 were reviewed for gestational age, birth weight, NAS score, dose of clonidine, duration of treatment, and additional medications required. Results. Fourteen patients were identified. The mean gestational age was 30.1 weeks (range 24.4–40.7 weeks); three patients were full-term. Eleven had been on intravenous fentanyl for sedation; three were born to opioid-dependent mothers. All patients were treated with clonidine, administered in doses of 0.5–1.0 mcg/kg orally every 6 h. No patient received opioids. Mean duration of treatment was 6.8 days (range 4–15). Mean abstinence scores were 6.4 ...
Production and supply of larvae as determinants of zonation in a brooding tropical coral

Production and settlement of planktonic larvae of the coral Favia fragum (Esper) were studied. The species is restricted to shallow back- and fore-reef habitats throughout the Caribbean Sea. Adults are in their greatest abundance on the reef-crest and shallow reef slope (<3 m) at Tague Bay, St. Croix, in the US Virgin Islands. Because F. fragum broods larvae that are capable of immediate settlement, this distribution pattern may be due to variation in fecundity among depths. Corals were collected from shallow (1.0 m) and deep depths (10–13 m) and cultured in individual containers exposed to shaded ambient light. Corals from shallow depths had greater fecundity (polyp−1 lunar cycle−1) and were larger than deep corals. To test the hypothesis that fecundity was related to successful fertilization, corals were kept in different densities in an area with sea-grass, where there were no natural adults. Production of larvae 6 months later was not affected by density of adults, possibly due to self-fertilization. Larval choice of habitat was also examined. In the laboratory, twice as many larvae settled on coral rubble fragments collected from depths where adults were common (1.5 and 3 m) than on those from depths where adults were rare (10 m). Larval supply may establish the vertical distribution of adults on St. Croix.
Mild traumatic brain injury in an insured population: subjective complaints and return to employment.

The great majority of traumatic brain injury (TBI) is of mild severity, with Glasgow Coma Scores (GCS) of 13-15, post-traumatic amnesia of less than 48 hours and brief, if any, hospitalization. All mild TBI admissions to hospital were provided with education in the form of a brief interview and a brochure on minor head trauma from the National Head Injury Foundation. Seventy-seven insured individuals with mild TBI were contacted by phone between 1 and 3 months post-injury to determine the frequency and severity of post-traumatic symptoms and the rate of return to work (RTW). Twenty-six per cent of those contacted had subjective complaints; 88% had returned to work or school; 16% of those returning did so with some symptoms. Only 45% of symptomatic individuals sought medical consultation for their condition when offered. Education about post-traumatic symptoms from the onset may provide sufficient reassurance to most individuals that future use of medical services is seen as unnecessary. Rate of RTW is rel...
Purine reutilization and synthesis de novo in long-term human lymphocyte cell lines deficient in adenine phosphoribosyltransferase activity

Clonal lines, with either partial or total deficiency of adenine phosphoribosyltransferase (APRT) were derived from the WI-L2 long-term human lymphocyte line by selection for resistance to the adenine analogs 8-azaadenine or 2,6-diaminopurine. Resistance to 8-wazaadenine also conferred resistance to 2,6-diaminopurine and vice versa. Cells with 30–40% of wild-type APRT activity were selected by resistance to 0.01 mM 2,6-diaminopurine or 1.40 mM 8-azaadenine. The APRT in the 8-azaadinine-resistant cells exhibited a four- to sevenfold increase in the apparent Km for adenine. Activities of three other purine reutilization and interconversion enzymes in the resistant cells, including hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT), adenosine kinase, and adenosine deaminase, were within the range of wild-type activities. The doubling times of the APRT-deficient cells in purine-free medium was not different from wild-type cells. The APRT in the 8-azaadenine-resistant cells did not have an altered mobility in glycerol gradients as compared to wild-type cells. The rate of purine synthesis de novo and intracellular levels of 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate were unchanged in the APRT-deficient cells as compared to WI-L2. The ability of the cells to reutilize exogenous adenine, however, was severely impaired.
Vascular targeting—a new approach to the therapy of solid tumors

An attractive approach to the therapy of solid tumors is to attack the endothelial cells of the tumor vascular bed rather than the tumor cells themselves, which circumvents the problem of poor penetration of tumor masses by monoclonal antibodies and other macromolecules. In this review, we will discuss the drawbacks of targeting solid tumors and the advantages of the 'vascular targeting' approach, describe the validation of the concept in a mouse model and summarize the properties of tumor endothelial cell markers, which are candidates for vascular targeting in humans.
Characterization of a new substrate for protein kinase C : assay by continuous fluorometric monitoring and high performance liquid chromatography

Abstract A synthetic peptide derived from the phosphorylation site in the β-subunit of phosphorylase kinase (RTKRSGSVYEPLKI) is an efficient substrate for rat brain protein kinase C: K m = 18±2 μM and V max = 2.1±0.1 μmol/min/mg. The phosphorylation of the peptide, which occurs at Ser 7 , can be followed by four independent procedures. 1. Standard measurement of 32 P incorporation. 2. Reverse phase HPLC in a gradient system containing 0.1 M ammonium sulfate in the stationary phase. 3. Continuous fluorometric monitoring of the changes in intrinsic peptide fluorescence. 4. Continuous fluorometric determination of NADH oxidation in a coupled enzyme assay.
Managerial action and resource‐advantage theory: conceptual frameworks emanating from a positive theory of competition

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to illustrate that conceptual frameworks developed from a general theory of competition, i.e. resource‐advantage (R‐A) theory, can facilitate managerial action.Design/methodology/approach – After a brief overview of resource‐advantage (R‐A) theory, five conceptual frameworks are developed and offered for the purposes of managerial action.Findings – This paper identifies several conceptual frameworks and after noting that conceptual frameworks that do not have positive theoretical foundations may not be as useful as those that do, develops five conceptual frameworks that are based on R‐A theory.Practical implications – The conceptual frameworks developed in this paper have great potential for facilitating managerial action.Originality/value – Conceptual frameworks that have positive theoretical foundations can be very useful for practitioners. In fact, the frameworks proposed in this paper can replace frameworks that are currently in use for managerial action.
Intracoronary Doppler: Clinical Application And Future Directions

Because coronary arteriography may underestimate the severity of coronary artery disease, other methods to assess the physiologic significance of a coronary lesion have been sought. Experimental data have confirmed that the ratio of peak flow to resting flow, coronary vasodilator reserve (CVDR), is a quantitative measure of the functional significance of a coronary a stenosis. A 20 MHz pulsed Doppler catheter with a 1 mm outer diameter and an innerlumen for guidewire placement was developed in 1985 and has been used for clinical measurement of CVDR. The technique appears safe, and reliable signals can be obtained in the vast majority of patients studied. Limitations of the technique include possible changes in vessel diameter with delivery of a vasodilator stimulus, possible elevation of baseline flow above normal resting values which would diminish the CVDR, and inability to measure absolute coronary flow. These limitations could be overcome by the development of an intravascular Echo-Doppler device in the future.
On the evolution of ribosomal RNA

Despite the availability of a rapidly growing ribosomal RNA database that now includes organisms in all three primary lines of descent (eubacteria, archaebacteria, and eukaryotes), theoretical treatment of the evolution of the ribosomal RNAs has lagged behind that of the protein genes. In this paper a theory is developed that applies current views of protein gene evolution to the ribosomal RNAs. The major topics addressed are the variability in size, gene arrangement, and processing of the rRNAs among the three primary lines of descent. Among the conclusions are that the rRNAs of eukaryotes retain some primitive features that were probably present in the rRNAs of the earliest cell (the progenote) and that the genes coding for the three major rRNA species were probably originally unlinked.
Visiting Trade Institutions1

In general, as social distance between individuals within a society increases, transactions become more impersonal and more concerned with immediate profit. However, some kinds of transactions between societies are embedded in institutional contexts called visiting trade institutions, which include elements usually characteristic of the most intimate within-society relationships, such as pseudo-kin ties (e.g., trading partnerships), gift-giving, and other ceremonies.
Production and Resource Use Efficiencies in N- and P-Limited Tropical Forests: A Comparison of Responses to Long-term Fertilization

At two sites at the extreme ends of a soil development chronosequence in Hawaii, we investigated whether forest responses to fertilization on young soils were similar to those on highly weathered soils and whether the initial responses were maintained after 6–11 years of fertilization. Aboveground net primary production (ANPP) was increased by nitrogen (N) application at the 300-year-old site and phosphorus (P) application at the 4.1-million-year-old site, thus confirming earlier results and their designations as N- and P-limited forests. Along with ANPP, application of the limiting element consistently increased leaf area index (LAI), radiation conversion efficiency (RCE), and foliar and litter nutrient concentrations. Fertilization did not consistently alter N or P retranslocation from senescent leaves at either site, but a comparison with other sites on the chronosequence and with a common-garden study suggests that there is a genetic basis for low foliar and litter nutrients and higher retranslocation at infertile sites vs more fertile sites. N limitation appears to be expressed as limitation to carbon gain, with long leaf lifespans and high leaf mass per area. P limitation results in high P-use efficiency and disproportionally large increases in P uptake after fertilization; a comparison with other studies indicates large investments in acquiring and storing P. Although the general responses of ANPP, LAI, and RCE were similar for the two sites, other aspects of nutrient use differ in relation to the physiological and biogeochemical roles of the two elements.
Frameworks for integrating interdisciplinary research

Abstract Interdisciplinary research can be defined by the presence of substantive, internalized linkages among component analyses. Three levels of integration of component analyses are defined. The weakest is associated with multidisciplinary research in which components stand on their own. Integration here involves editorial organization, consistent terminology, and concordant concepts. The strongest level involves a shared, over-arching theoretical framework which welds components into a unit. Most interdisciplinary research can realistically aspire only to an intermediate level of integration wherein disciplinary components serve as substantive inputs to each other. Attainment of well-integrated interdisciplinary research is a complex task. This study identifies four frameworks useful in integration based on a probe of 24 technology assessments. Common group learning generates a common intellectual property belonging to the research group. It yields well-integrated research, but often at the cost of a loss of depth of analysis. Formal modeling can structure interrelationships, and, thereby, serve as an integrating framework. Modeling is most applicable to well-specified problems, but it can contribute, in conjunction with other frameworks, to broader, policy-oriented studies as well. Negotiation among experts takes place at the common boundaries between component analyses as these substantively affect each other's findings. It preserves the full depth of expertise and can be used in broad-ranging studies. Integration by the project leader establishes one person as the sole repository of composite knowledge, obtained through one-to-one interactions with assorted experts. It is not well-suited to interdisciplinary research, except in small-scale studies.
Diurnal Variation in Growth Hormone Receptor Messenger Ribonucleic Acid in Liver and Skeletal Muscle of lit/+ and lit/lit Mice

The present study investigated the diurnal variation in GH receptor (GHR) mRNA in liver and skeletal muscle of 3-month-old GH-deficient and -sufficient mice using quantitative real-time RT-PCR. lit/lit (GH deficient) or lit/+ (GH sufficient) mice were fed ad libitum and lights were on between 0600 and 2000. Tissues were collected at 0800-1000, 1200-1400 and 2000-2200. Hepatic GHR mRNA levels of lit/+ mice at 0800-1000 were significantly lower than those at 1200-1400 and 2000-2200. There was no significant variation in hepatic GHR mRNA of lit/lit mice. In skeletal muscle, GHR mRNA levels of both lit/+ and lit/lit mice at 1200-1400 were significantly higher than those at 0800-1000 and 2000-2200. There was also a diurnal change in hepatic IGF-I mRNA levels of lit/+ but not of lit/lit mice; the levels were lowest at 0800-1000 in lit/+ mice. On the other hand, there was no variation in IGF-I mRNA levels in skeletal muscle. These results suggest that 1) there is a diurnal variation in GHR expression in liver and skeletal muscle and the pattern of the variation is tissue specific; 2) GH deficiency blunted the diurnal variation in GHR mRNA in liver but not that in skeletal muscle; 3) IGF-I mRNA expression in liver is more closely related to GHR mRNA expression than that in skeletal muscle.
Surgical experience in patients with Marfan's syndrome, ascending aortic aneurysm and aortic regurgitation

Abstract Surgical treatment of cardiovascular complications in patients with Marfan's syndrome is usually recommended with apprehension since the systemic nature of the disease predisposes to early and late complications. To define the incidence of these complications, 30 patients were evaluated after surgical treatment of aortic insufficiency and ascending aortic aneurysm at the Texas Heart Institute. To provide a minimal follow-up period of 5 years, only patients operated upon during or before 1968 were included in this series. There were 9 female and 21 male patients aged 4 to 80 years (mean 44 years). Aortic insufficiency was treated by valvuloplasty in 3 patients and by aortic valve replacement in 27. Graft replacement of the ascending aorta was required in 23 patients, and the aneurysm was excised and the aorta repaired by direct anastomosis in 7. Two patients were lost to follow-up study; 12 of the remaining 28 (42.8 percent) lived 5 years or more. The hospital mortality rate was 20 percent (6 of 30); the causes of death included dissection or rupture of the aorta in three patients, congestive heart failure in two and pulmonary embolism in one. The 24 survivors lived from 5 weeks to 9 years. Follow-up data were available on 22 of these patients. Ten of these (45.4 percent) died of late complications. Seven died suddenly, four of these had redissection, one patient had occlusion of the right coronary artery, and two had ventricular fibrillation of no apparent cause. The remaining three died of noncardiac causes. Although the risk of ascending aortic and aortic valve surgery in patients with Marfan's syndrome is high, 42.8 percent of the patients in our series survived 5 years or more. We believe that surgery should be recommended for patients with Marfan's disease who have dissection of the aorta or severe aortic regurgitation, or both.
TU-B-351-01: Optimizing CT Examination Protocols with Respect to Image Quality and Radiation Dose

CT technology continues to develop at a rapid pace, offering imaging options and features that can dramatically improve image quality. Multichannel systems are now standard and the number of channels and image acquisition options continues to increase, allowing greater coverage per rotation, shorter scan times, and thinner images. Isotropic volumetric data acquisition permits retrospective reconstructions of many different image thicknesses and reformats can be created through multiple planes. These and many other advances have escalated and expanded the utility of CTimaging as a core diagnostic tool. However, coupled with the improved CT technology is the increased complexity of operating the scanners and the elevated potential of increasing the radiation dose. CT operators must choose from multiple options, many of which are interdependent, for the control of the multitude of available features. The impact of each of these options on image quality and radiation dose can range from subtle to substantial, and may not necessarily be obvious to the operator. This lecture will focus on the clinical implications of CT scan parameters and provide guidance on achieving an optimal compromise between image quality and radiation dose when constructing CT scan protocols. Educational Objectives: 1. Understand the influence of primary CT scan parameters on image quality and radiation dose. 2. Learn how to use imaging task‐specific priorities with consideration for radiation dose when determining scanner settings.
Slow baseline growth and a good response to growth hormone (GH) therapy are related to elevated spontaneous GH pulse frequency in girls with Turner's syndrome.

Spontaneous growth and growth responses to GH therapy vary considerably among girls with Turner's syndrome. In an attempt to clarify this variability, we assessed growth parameters, 24-h GH profiles, arginine-stimulated serum GH levels, and plasma insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) concentrations in a group of 41 girls with Turner's syndrome with a mean (+/- SD) age of 13 +/- 3 yr (range, 6.7-18.9). We subsequently treated all girls with biosynthetic GH (24 IU/m2 x week) and documented the growth response after 1 yr of therapy. GH profiles were analyzed according to Pulsar and Cluster, and GH secretion rates were calculated by waveform-independent deconvolution (Pulse). Factor analysis selected the mean 24-h GH secretion rate and number of GH peaks according to Cluster and Pulse as the principal GH profile variables to be used for further analysis. The mean (+/- SD) daily pituitary GH secretion rate was 127 +/- 47 micrograms/L.24 h (range, 37-232). The GH secretion rate correlated inversely with body ma...
Soymilk: an effective and inexpensive blocking agent for immunoblotting

Blocking efficacy of whole soymilk, nonfat soymilk, SuperBlock, and nonfat milk was evaluated by performing standard protein immunoblotting procedures on both purified protein and crude nuclear extracts from HEK 293 cells. Nonfat soymilk was found to have superior blocking efficacy compared with other blocking agents in terms of high signal-to-noise ratio with the shortest blocking times. In addition, the presence of low concentrations of the detergent Tween 20 (0.05-0.1%, v/v) in the wash buffer as well as antibody incubations significantly lessened the background compared with including only the detergent during wash steps.
Trace level detection of hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) by microimmunosensor

Reported in this paper is the development and characterization of a highly sensitive microcapillary immunosensor for the detection of the explosive, hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX). The immunosensor exploits antibodies as recognition elements for target antigens, fluorescence dye conjugates for reporter molecules and fused silica microcapillaries for its high surface-to-volume ratio. Detection of RDX with the microcapillary immunosensor requires covalent immobilization of anti-RDX antibodies on the inner core of the microcapillaries via heterobifunctional cross-linker chemistry. Subsequent saturation of all antibody binding domains follows with a synthetically prepared fluorescent analog of RDX. Displacement immunoassays were performed with the microcapillary immunosensor with the injection of unlabeled RDX at concentration levels from 1 part-per-trillion (pptr) to 1000 part-per-billion (ppb). As unlabeled RDX reaches the binding domain of the antibody, fluorescent RDX analog is displaced from the antibody, flows downstream and is measured by a spectrofluorometer. Fluorescence measurements of the displaced fluorescent RDX analog were equated to a standard calibration curve to quantify sample concentration. Complete evaluation of the RDX microcapillary immunosensor for selectivity and sensitivity was performed based on the following criteria: variable flow rates, antibody cross-reactivity, reproducibility and cross-linker (carbon spacer) comparison. Results indicate the lowest detectable limit (LDL) for RDX is 10 pptr (ng/l) with a linear dynamic range from 0.1 to 1000 ppb (ug/l).
“Did it happen or did it not?”: Dream stories, worldview, and narrative knowing

In this paper I address questions about how narrative discourse works as a way of knowing and communicating about the world through exploring a particularly interesting category of oral narratives I encountered during my research among The Travelling People of Scotland. Traveller Duncan Williamson called these narratives “dream stories” because they defy the ability of listeners to follow the narrative and consequently leave them wondering: “Did it actually happen or was the narrative protagonist dreaming?” I argue that the confusion evoked in dream narrative performances is intentional and serves to enhance the efficacy of narrative performance as a medium of communication. I also argue dream stories provide a metanarrative commentary on the nature of narrative knowing by highlighting the creativity of the performance process and by focusing attention on the dialectical relationship between coherence‐making and worldview that informs interpretations of narrative performances.
In vitro effects of environmentally relevant polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners on calcium buffering mechanisms in rat brain.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are widely used as additive flame-retardants and have been detected in human blood, adipose tissue, and breast milk. Developmental and long-term exposures to these chemicals may pose a human health risk, especially to children. We have previously demonstrated that polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which are structurally similar to PBDEs and cause neurotoxicity, perturb intracellular signaling events including calcium homeostasis and protein kinase C translocation, which are critical for neuronal function and development of the nervous system. The objective of the present study was to test whether environmentally relevant PBDE congeners 47 and 99 are also capable of disrupting Ca2 + homeostasis. Calcium buffering was determined by measuring 45Ca2 + -uptake by microsomes and mitochondria, isolated from adult male rat brain (frontal cortex, cerebellum, hippocampus, and hypothalamus). Results show that PBDEs 47 and 99 inhibit both microsomal and mitochondrial 45Ca2 + -uptake in a concentration-dependent manner. The effect of these congeners on 45Ca2 + -uptake is similar in all four brain regions though the hypothalamus seems to be slightly more sensitive. Among the two preparations, the congeners inhibited 45Ca2 + -uptake in mitochondria to a greater extent than in microsomes. These results indicate that PBDE 47 and PBDE 99 congeners perturb calcium signaling in rat brain in a manner similar to PCB congeners, suggesting a common mode of action of these persistent organic pollutants.
Geoefficiency and energy partitioning in CIR-driven and CME-driven storms

Magnetic storms due to corotating interaction regions (CIRs) have been shown to elicit different responses in the magnetosphere than those prompted by other types of solar wind driving conditions such as coronal mass ejections (CMEs). In particular, CIRs provoke a much weaker response in ground magnetometer data (Dst), possibly indicative of a weaker ring current. They also last many days longer than the CME events, yet over these longer events they couple a great deal of energy, sometimes comparable to that involved in typically larger-Dst CME events. It may seem at first that the weaker driving of CIR events must result in proportionally weaker magnetospheric response, but that is not always the case. In this work we show that magnetic storms driven by CIRs deposit more energy in the ionosphere and ring current than would be expected from the electromagnetic energy input from the CIRs. They appear to be more geoefficient, in the sense that the ratio of the measured energy deposited (ring current, Joule heating, and auroral precipitation) to energy input is greater than that for CMEs.
The effect of memory load on the right ear advantage in dichotic listening

Abstract The right ear advantage (REA) observed in dichotic tests was further investigated to examine the effects of memory load on the task. Memory load was operationally defined as the duration of time wherein subjects were asked to retain the stimuli, with no rehearsal, prior to recall. The delay periods interpolated between dichotic stimulation and recall were: no delay, 5, 10, and 15 sec delay. There was a significant REA in the no delay condition. The conditions with interpolated delay periods showed a substantial loss in overall accuracy, and at 15 sec delay showed a strong REA. The results offer suggestive evidence for a lateralized memory mechanism for storing speech sounds.
Three-dimensional fluid-structure coupling in transient analysis

Abstract The numerical simulation of nonlinear, transient fluid-structure interactions (FSI) is a current area of concern by researchers in various fields, including the field of nuclear reactor safety. This paper primarily discusses the formulation used in an algorithm that couples three-dimensional hydrodynamic and structural domains. Here, both the fluid and structure are discretized using finite elements. The semi-discretized equations of motion are solved using an explicit temporal integrator. Coupling is accomplished by satisfying interface mechanics. The structure imposes kinematic constraints to the moving fluid boundary, and the fluid in turn provides an external loading on the structure. At each interface node, normals are computed from the nodal basis functions of only the hydrodynamic nodes. By defining the interface normal in this manner, it becomes independent of the type of structural boundary (i.e. shell, plate, continuum, etc.) and thus makes this aspect of the coupling independent of the structure type. A penalty type gap-impact element is developed to model the impact region between the fluid and structure. Results for several problems are presented and these include a comparison between analytical results for a FSI problem and numerical predictions.
Acute negative intracranial pressure effects on the auditory evoked response in rabbits.

Recent clinical experience has shown that significant neurological symptoms and deficits occur in patients who have been shunted for hydrocephalus when "overshunting" produces unusual negative intracranial pressure (ICP). Therefore, the effect of acute negative ICP .on the early auditory evoked response (AER) was studied in the normal New Zealand rabbit. ICP was reduced to -50, -100, and -150 mm H2O below base line pressure. The AER after rarefaction auditory stimulation was obtained from ongoing electroencephalographic activity at the base line ICP and at each of the three negative ICP levels. Off-line statistical evaluation of the AER showed minimal changes in the absolute and interpeak latencies of N-0 to P-5 at some negative pressures. However, no statistically significant changes were observed for any of the measures for grouped data. At the negative ICP levels studied, the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pulse pressure was considerably augmented over base line measures. Such augmentation of the CSF pulse pressure may be the cause of the minimal effects observed on the AER, which may be due to a neuropraxic effect rather than ischemia from cerebral perfusion pressure changes.
Forensic biomarkers of elder abuse: what clinicians need to know.

The identification of medical forensic biomarkers in relation to elder abuse is vital to the medical and legal determination of whether elder abuse or neglect has occurred. This paper presents several potential forensic biomarkers of elder abuse and discusses the key role of the nurse clinician.
Effects of interface mutations on association modes and electron-transfer rates between proteins

Although bonding networks determine electron-transfer (ET) rates within proteins, the mechanism by which structure and dynamics influence ET across protein interfaces is not well understood. Measurements of photochemically induced ET and subsequent charge recombination between Zn-porphyrin-substituted cytochrome c peroxidase and cytochrome c in single crystals correlate reactivity with defined structures for different association modes of the redox partners. Structures and ET rates in crystals are consistent with tryptophan oxidation mediating charge recombination reactions. Conservative mutations at the interface can drastically affect how the proteins orient and dispose redox centers. Whereas some configurations are ET inactive, the wild-type complex exhibits the fastest recombination rate. Other association modes generate ET rates that do not correlate with predictions based on cofactor separations or simple bonding pathways. Inhibition of photoinduced ET at <273 K indicates gating by small-amplitude dynamics, even within the crystal. Thus, different associations achieve states of similar reactivity, and within those states conformational fluctuations enable interprotein ET.
The effect of strand bias in Illumina short-read sequencing data

When using Illumina high throughput short read data, sometimes the genotype inferred from the positive strand and negative strand are significantly different, with one homozygous and the other heterozygous. This phenomenon is known as strand bias. In this study, we used Illumina short-read sequencing data to evaluate the effect of strand bias on genotyping quality, and to explore the possible causes of strand bias. We collected 22 breast cancer samples from 22 patients and sequenced their exome using the Illumina GAIIx machine. By comparing the consistency between the genotypes inferred from this sequencing data with the genotypes inferred from SNP chip data, we found that, when using sequencing data, SNPs with extreme strand bias did not have significantly lower consistency rates compared to SNPs with low or no strand bias. However, this result may be limited by the small subset of SNPs present in both the exome sequencing and the SNP chip data. We further compared the transition and transversion ratio and the number of novel non-synonymous SNPs between the SNPs with low or no strand bias and those with extreme strand bias, and found that SNPs with low or no strand bias have better overall quality. We also discovered that the strand bias occurs randomly at genomic positions across these samples, and observed no consistent pattern of strand bias location across samples. By comparing results from two different aligners, BWA and Bowtie, we found very consistent strand bias patterns. Thus strand bias is unlikely to be caused by alignment artifacts. We successfully replicated our results using two additional independent datasets with different capturing methods and Illumina sequencers. Extreme strand bias indicates a potential high false-positive rate for SNPs.
Analyses of a Cantilever-Beam Based Instrument for Evaluating the Development of Polymerization Stresses

Abstract Objective This investigation was to generate (1) guidelines for designing a tensometer that satisfies the necessary accuracy and sensitivity requirements for measuring polymerization stress (PS), and (2) a formula for calculating PS. Polymerization stress remains one of the most critical properties of polymeric dental materials, yet methods that can accurately quantify PS have been limited in part due to the complexity of polymerization, and in part due to the instrumentation itself. Method In this study, we performed analytical and finite element analyses on a cantilever-beam based tensometer that is used to evaluate shrinkage stresses during the polymerization of dental restorative composites. Results The PS generated by a commercial dental composite determined using our new tensometer agrees with the predicted trend when the beam length and/or specimen height is varied. Significance This work demonstrates the importance of beam dimension and component relative rigidity to the accuracy of PS evaluation. An analytical solution is also derived for the vertical beam deflection, which can be used for any combination of bending and shearing to properly calculate the PS. In addition, an easy-to-conduct calibration procedure is provided that is desirable for periodic tensometer recalibration.
Intercellular Propagation of Calcium Waves Mediated by Inositol Trisphosphate

Two types of calcium (Ca2+) signaling-propagating intercellular Ca2+ waves of increasing intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and nonpropagating oscillations in [Ca2+]i-co-exist in a variety of cell types. To investigate this difference in Ca2+ signaling, airway epithelial cells were loaded with heparin, an inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP3) receptor antagonist, by pulsed, high-frequency electroporation. Heparin inhibited propagation of intercellular Ca2+ waves but not oscillations of [Ca2+]i. In heparin-free cells, Ca2+ waves propagated through cells displaying [Ca2+]i oscillations. Depletion of intracellular Ca2+ pools with the Ca2+-pump inhibitor thapsigargin also inhibited the propagation of Ca2+ waves. These studies demonstrate that the release of Ca2+ by IP3 is necessary for the propagation of intercellular Ca2+ waves and suggest that IP3 moves through gap junctions to communicate intercellular Ca2+ waves.
Glycyl-tRNA synthetase: evidence for two enzyme forms and sigmoidal saturation kinetics.

Abstract Two forms of glycyl-tRNA synthetase from E . coli have been resolved by DEAE-Sephadex chromatography. The two forms display different kinetic responses to increasing tRNA concentration. One gives a sigmoidal response and a Hill coefficient of 2.2 ± 0.2 while the other shows Michaelis-Menten kinetics. It is suggested that these data may indicate a role for glycyl-tRNA synthetase in the regulation of protein biosynthesis. During DEAE-Sephadex chromatography and ammonium sulfate fractionation the addition of substrates (glycine, ATP, and MgCl2) has proven to be of significant value in resolving the two enzyme forms from each other and from contaminating proteins.
Sex determination of fragmentary crania by analysis of the cranial base

The cranial base can be used to determine the sex of fragmentary or deformed skulls. An initial study used nine measurements taken from 100 crania in the Terry Collection. The sample was divided equally by race and sex. Six regression models were formulated that predicted correctly the sex of the sample with 71-90% accuracy. In a separate test, a control sample of 20 skulls, also drawn from the Terry Collection but not involved with formulating the regression equations, was correctly classified with 70-85% accuracy.
The effect of astrocytes on the induction of barrier properties in aortic endothelial cells.

Construction of in vitro models of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) using primary brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMEC) is time intensive and not high throughput, in part due to a lack of culture purity, low yields, and cellular dedifferentiation after the first passage. This problem has created interest in the substitution of BMEC with immortalized brain endothelial cells (EC), or peripheral EC such as bovine aortic EC (BAEC). Many BBB models have focused on further inducing the brain and peripheral ECs by incorporating astrocyte back-to-back or nonback-to-back cocultures. However, previous studies demonstrating induction effects of astrocytes on BAEC in back-to-back cocultures failed to recognize the extensive barrier properties of astrocytes alone, which can have a significant effect on interpreting the results. This manuscript reports the establishment of back-to-back and nonback-to-back cocultures between astrocytes and BAEC or BMEC (as a control) with primary focus on the properties of astrocytes alone and with a linear contrast statistical methodology to interpret the results. Transendothelial electrical resistance and permeability studies revealed that astrocytes can significantly increase the barrier tightening of BMEC by 167%, while having no effect on BAEC. Immunocytochemical studies also revealed the reorganization of BMEC occludin junctions in the presence of astrocytes, while indicating the absence of this junctional protein in BAEC. In contrast to a previous report, here the linear contrast statistical analysis revealed that observed decreases in permeability of BAEC in back-to-back cocultures is due to the addition of astrocytes' properties in series and not due to induction. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2011
An immunological study of the fates of nuclear and nucleolar macromolecules during the cell cycle

Immunofluorescence employing specific antibodies was used to detect nuclear and nucleolar macromolecules during the cell cycle in synchronized diploid human lymphocytes. The majority of “available” native DNA determinants were adjacent to the nuclear membrane in phase G1†. DNA associated with histones was present throughout the nucleus in phases G1 and S and associated with chromosomes in metaphase. Single-stranded DNA was not detected in phase G1 cells, but midway through phase S it was abundantly present. The morphology of the nucleolus changed markedly as cells proceeded from G1 to metaphase, and in metaphase nucleolar fragmentation and the appearance of nucleolar contents in the cytoplasm were observed. Cytoplasmic DNA, which was not seen in G1 or S-period cells, appeared adjacent to plasma membranes in metaphase cells. These studies demonstrated that specific antibodies against nuclear and nucleolar macromolecules could be important reagents for determination of the fates of certain macromolecules in eukaryotic cells.
Economic development and the carbon intensity of human well-being

Economic development improves the conditions of human life, but at a cost to the natural environment. Research now estimates the relationship between economic development and the carbon intensity of human well-being—the ratio of anthropogenic carbon emissions to average life expectancy at birth—globally, over 40 years. Most of the countries studied, including African nations over recent decades, followed unsustainable paths of development.
Iron Tris(dibenzoylmethane−polylactide)

The polymeric metal complex iron tris(dibenzoylmethane-polylactide), Fe(dbmPLA)3, was synthesized from d,l-lactide and Fe(dbmOH)3, a hydroxyl functionalized metalloinitiator. Reactions are fast relative to those with the dbmOH ligand initiator even when no Sn(oct)2 or DMAP catalyst is added, indicating that iron serves as both a dbm protecting group and a catalyst for lactide ring-opening polymerization (ROP). Kinetics experiments show good molecular weight control to ∼60−70% conversion (e.g., PDIs < 1.1; no evidence of transesterification via 1H NMR spectroscopic analysis; continued chain growth when Fe(dbmPLA)3 is heated with additional lactide monomer). For comparison, Fe(bdk)3 (bdk = β-diketonate) complexes were tested as lactide ROP catalysts using dbmOH and benzyl alcohol as the initiators. The red-orange Fe(dbmPLA)3 polymers were analyzed by GPC, 1H NMR and UV-vis spectroscopy. Demetalation with dilute HCl yields dbmPLA macroligands for chelation to other metals. The polymerization mechanism using ...
Scleral Grafting for Necrotizinf Scleritis

Although systemic immunosuppressive chemotherapy is effective in halting progressive necrotizing scleritis, the onset of its action may be too slow to prevent profound scleral thinning and/or traumatic or spontaneous perforation. Scleral homografts may be used to maintain the integrity of the globe until immunosuppressive drugs can take effect. The authors reviewed their experience with scleral homografts in 12 patients with progressive necrotizing scleritis; eight (all with autoimmune disease) had concomitant chemotherapy and four (two with autoimmune disease) did not. Grafts remained stable in patients receiving both surgical and drug therapy over a mean follow-up of 12 months. One graft melted after discontinuation of chemotherapy, but regrafting and renewed immunosuppression salvaged the eye. Grafts in two of the patients not initially given chemotherapy melted rapidly (within 14 and 45 days, respectively). Both eyes were salvaged by regrafting and/or addition of chemotherapy. Though rarely successful by itself against necrotizing scleritis, scleral grafting is a useful adjunct to chemotherapy.
Implanted cardiac defibrillator care in radiation oncology patient population.

Purpose To review the experience of a large cancer center with radiotherapy (RT) patients bearing implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICDs) to propose some preliminary care guidelines as we learn more about the devices and their interaction with the therapeutic radiation environment. Methods and Materials We collected data on patients with implanted ICDs treated with RT during a 2.5-year period at any of the five Memorial Sloan-Kettering clinical campuses. Information regarding the model, location, and dose detected from the device, as well as the treatment fields, fraction size, and treatment energy was collected. During this time, a new management policy for these patients had been implemented requiring treatment with low-energy beams (6 MV) and close surveillance of the patients in partnership with their electrophysiologist, as they received RT. Results During the study period, 33 patients were treated with an ICD in place. One patient experienced a default of the device to its initial factory setting that was detected by the patient hearing an auditory signal from the device. This patient had initially been treated with a 15-MV beam. After this episode, his treatment was replanned to be completed with 6-MV photons, and he experienced no further events. Conclusion Patients with ICDs and other implanted computer-controlled devices will be encountered more frequently in the RT department, and proper management is important. We present a policy for the safe treatment of these patients in the radiation oncology environment.
Surface properties and effective resolution from ground-based observations of Mercury

A detailed study to evaluate ground-based photographs of Mercury has been carried out. Models of the surface scattering properties have been assumed and smeared with a Gaussian function for direct comparison with center-to-limb scans along Mercury's intensity equator. Data from a range of phase angles from 31 to 92 deg have been compared with smeared models assuming a Lambert surface, a surface which obeys the Lommel-Seeliger law and one which is Minnaertian, having a variable coefficient. Within the limits of the observations a lunar Minnaert surface yields the most consistent interpretation. An objective evaluation of the resolution of the photographs is obtained in terms of Gaussian half-widths.
More normal than not: A qualitative assessment of the developmental experiences of gay male youth

Abstract Purpose To examine gay youth experiences within the context of normal adolescent development. Methods Thematic analyses of interviews with 13 self-identified gay male youth, aged 16–22 years, each reporting minimal sexual identity distress, were completed. Interviews focused on: (a) descriptions of developmental changes perceived to occur for all adolescents , {b) descriptions of the participants' developmental experience , and (c) participants' direct comparisons of their perceptions of gay and nongay developmental experience. Data were analyzed by two investigators who, after initial review of the interview transcripts, developed a unified coding template to permit systematic analysis of the transcripts for recurrent themes. Results (a) Few (2 of 13) participants reported overall developmental experience markedly different from nongay peers. (b) Peer interaction was seen as the domain most different from that of nongay peers. (c) Open gay self-identification altered, generally positively, all peer interaction. (d) Increased peer interaction enhanced maturity in other domains. (e) Family dynamics were not substantively altered by open gay self-identification. (f) Middle and high school were identified as relatively hostile environments in which to openly identify as gay, affecting the timing and the extent of self-disclosure. (g) Developmental progress showed asynchrony across developmental domains. Conclusion General developmental dysfunction is not inevitable for gay adolescents, nor is identifiable personal or family pathology directly related to sexual identity.
STABILIZATION BY ANTIOXIDANTS OF MAYONNAISE MADE FROM FISH OIL

. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the use of antioxidants in extending the shelf-life of mayonnaise constantly exposed to air in which all of the oil ingredient was fish oil. Mayonnaise prepared without antioxidants had a shelf-life at room temperature of approximately 1 day. Citric acid or sodium citrate and propyl gallate in the oil phase and EDTA and ascorbic acid in the aqueous phase increased the shelf-life to an average of 49 days at room temperature as judged by sensory evaluation. With refrigeration, the number of days to off-odor development was increased to 89. With the addition of an oxygen scavenging system of glucose oxidase-catalase-glucose, the shelf-life increased to an average of 132 days. Both oxygen and light were shown to be detrimental to the stability of the product. Considerable variation was observed between batches of menhaden oil, the primary fish oil used in formulating the mayonnaise in these studies.