cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Geoid from geopotential model in the Taiwan area

Abstract The geoid undulation on GRS80 in the Taiwan area at half‐degree grid points has been calculated using the reduced 30’ × 30’ block mean gravity anomalies and the OSU91A geopotential coefficient set up to degree and order 360. The OSU91A results have been used to compare with WGS84, CEM10C, and OSU86F geoid undulations determined in 18 first‐order triangulation stations of the Taiwan Geodetic Datum 1980 (TGD80). Comparisons have also been made between these free‐air anomalies determined from OSU91A, and terrestrial gravity anomalies. It has been found that the average difference between the OSU91A model‐derived, and 243 actual point free‐air anomalies is 16.8 ± 48.0 mgal. It has also been found that more reliable and dense terrestrial gravity data are needed, both for terrestrial observations and for the OSU91A model, to achieve the very high‐precision geoid on GRS80 in the area of study.
Influences of examiner position and effective prism power on nearpoint alternate cover test.

Background This study was designed to resolve uncertainty concerning whether the position of the examiner is associated with variability in the results of the nearpoint alternate cover test (NACT). Two previous studies have shown that when the examiner is positioned to the side of the patient, rather than directly in front of the patient, the NACT shows greater exophoria in the range of 1.3 to 4.4 prism diopters. In the current study, we sought to determine if proximal cues or effective prism power might be the source of the apparent exo shift associated with examiner position. Methods Three conditions of the NACT were performed on 52 young adults with normal visual function. Two measurements using the method of limits were made in each condition and averaged. In all conditions, the fixation target remained on the subject's midline at a distance of 40 cm. Results Our results showed a small significant increase in measured exophoria when the examiner administered the NACT from a position to the side of the subject. The magnitude of the increase, 0.98 prism diopter, was less than in the previous studies, probably due to the control for proximal effect that was used. Intentionally rotating the measuring prism had a nominal effect on the measured phoria value, consistent with error induced due to effective prism power. Discussion It appears that examiner position does affect the outcome of the NACT, but that the magnitude of the effect is not clinically significant. A change in proximal cues may contribute to the effect.
Implications for lateralization of bird song from unilateral gating of bilateral motor patterns

FUNCTIONAL lateralization of the brain, once considered unique to human language, remains poorly understood1–5. The most convincing example of this phenomenon in animals is singing behaviour in songbirds1,4, in which asymmetries range from a clear unilateral dominance6–8 to approximately equal contributions from each side of the vocal organ, the syrinx9. Here we report that in brown thrashers (Toxostoma rufum) only the activity of muscles that gate sound production by regulating airflow through each side of the syrinx is lateralized. Other syringeal muscles that primarily control the phonetic structure of vocalizations are active on both sides of the syrinx. This explains the puzzling absence of laterality in the morphology10,11 and activity12,13 of the higher central song control nuclei and suggests that song lateralization did not evolve as a means of achieving a single 'executive' command centre, or as a way of economizing on motor circuits to free brain space for other tasks14–16.
Decomposition and Nutrient Release Dynamics of Two Tropical Legume Cover Crops

Shifting agriculture is a main contributor to deforestation in the humid tropics. Substitution of managed fallows using cover crops is a possible alternative to natural fallow that may contribute to more sustainable farming systems via more efficient nutrient cycling. Our objective was to determine the rate of decomposition and nutrient (N, P, K, Ca, Mg) release patterns resulting from two managed fallow periods (12 or 18 mo) for Desmodium adscendens (Sw.) DC. (syn. D. ovalifolium Guillemin & Perrottet) and Pueraria phaseoloides (Roxb.) Benth. (tropical kudzu) grown on Typic and Aquic Dystropept soils at two locations in the Bolivian Amazon. Dry matter disappearance and nutrient release rates from decomposing cover crop residues were monitored using 1-mm mesh nylon bags. The longer managed fallow (18 mo) reduced the decomposition rate of both cover crops. After 30 wk, residues remaining from 12-mo managed fallows averaged 24% for desmodium and 16% for pueraria, whereas residues from 18-mo managed fallows averaged 53% for desmodium and 32% for pueraria. Similar to dry matter disappearance, cover crops grown for 12 mo released nutrients faster than those grown for 18 mo. Nutrient release patterns between sites were similar. By 30 wk, nutrient percentages remaining in desmodium vs. pueraria grown for 12 mo at Site 1 were 46 vs. 17% N, 17 vs. 9% P, 4 vs. 2% K, 36 vs. 20% Ca, and 30 vs. 21% Mg. Similar proportional differences in release patterns were observed for all nutrients except Ca for 18-mo managed fallows. These results indicate a greater potential for asynchrony between crop nutrient demand and cover crop residue nutrient release for 12- vs. 18-mo managed fallows, and more so for pueraria than desmodium.
A conserved disulfide loop facilitates conformational maturation in the subunits of the acetylcholine receptor.

To examine the structural determinants for the assembly of ligand-gated receptors, we constructed mutant α, β, γ and δ subunits of the Torpedo acetylcholine receptor (AChR), lacking one of the conserved cysteine residues which forms a 13-amino acid disulfide loop in the amino terminal domain of each subunit. Mutant subunits were co-expressed with complementary wild-type subunits in Xenopus oocytes. Using subunit-specific antisera and monoclonal antibodies that recognize the two distinct α-bungarotoxin (α-BuTX) sites on the AChR, we were able to distinguish immature subunit associations from conformationally mature AChR complexes. Removal of the disulfide loop on the α subunit completely destroyed the formation of the two toxin-binding sites, while removal of the structure on the β subunit had little effect. While mutant γ and δ subunits were capable of forming associations (immature assembly) with other subunits, the formation of α-BTX sites between α and mutant γ or mutant δ subunits was diminished. Interestingly, assembly of αβγ subunits remained efficient in the presence of mutant δ subunits, whereas assembly of αβδ subunits was inefficient in the presence of mutant γ subunits. Thus, these results indicate that the formation of the disulfide loop facilitates the conformational maturation of αγ and αδ complexes, which may be conditional for correct subunit coupling in assembling receptors. Furthermore, it seems likely that the correct coupling between the α and γ subunits is the most important step in subunit assembly.
Criterion-referenced measurement in the college classroom

One format was presented that met the practical parameters of classroom education while improving the clarity and effectiveness of classroom testing, and facilitating the assurance of future practitioner competence. While employing criterion-referenced testing, this format did not adhere strictly to a competency-based model, nor were test questions evaluated for statistical validity or reliability. Criterion-referenced measurement has the potential to be a meaningful tool in professional education, but it is not a panacea for educational demands. Difficult questions confront every educator who considers using criterion-referenced measurement toward a goal of student mastery. Criterion-referenced measurement is practical, and the educators who use it make a statement regarding their beliefs about the education process.
Outcomes of Veterans Affairs patients older than age 80 after surgical procedures for colon malignancies

Abstract Background Census data predict a 43% increase in individuals who are 80 years and older by 2010. There is a lack of information concerning surgical outcomes in this patient population regarding colon cancer. Herein we report a 10-year experience of surgical outcomes. Methods Medical records of patients age 80 years and older undergoing surgery for colon cancer from 1996 to 2006 were reviewed (study group). Patient demographics and clinical outcomes were compared with a randomly sampled control group of patients younger than 80 years. Results Forty-seven patients 80 years and older underwent surgery. Study group patients had an increased length of stay ( P = .02), more cardiopulmonary complications ( P = .01), and 32% presented emergently. Emergent patients had a significantly longer hospital stay and a higher incidence of complications. Study group patients also had decreased 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates (71%, 48%, and 31%, respectively). Conclusions Patients age 80 years and older have increased postoperative cardiopulmonary complications, lower long-term survival rates, and often present emergently. Clinicians should make all attempts to optimize the cardiopulmonary status preoperatively in this patient population and attempt to perform these surgeries in nonemergent situations.
Seventh nerve palsy complicating meningococcal septicaemia.

Sir: We present a case demonstrating what we believe to be the original observation of an acute right lower motor neurone facial nerve palsy complicating meningococcal septicaemia. A previously healthy 14-year-old boy was admitted elsewhere with a 12-h history of fever, vomiting and headache together with generalised aches and pains. On examination he had an extensive purpuric rash consisitent with meningococcal septicaemia but no meningismus. He was given intravenous penicillin and cefotaxime prior to immediate transfer to Aberdeen. On arrival in our hospital he was hypotensive but responded within 12 h to fluid replacement and a dopamine infusion. Antibiotics were continued. Blood cultures were sterile but a urinary antigen test for Meningococcus Group C/W135 was positive (Wellcogen Bacterial Antigen Kit, Muirex). Lumbar puncture was not performed. Subsequently some of his purpuric areas became necrotic but he was otherwise stable. On day 9 of his illness he experienced a sudden onset right-sided lower motor neurone facial nerve palsy for which he was given a course of oral prednisolone (2 mg/kg per day) without benefit. There was no other neurological impairment. On followup the facial nerve palsy resolved after 6 months with no further intervention. Although it is not possible to establish without doubt that the lower motor neurone facial palsy in this child was related to the meningococcal septicaemia, the relationship in time is very strongly suggestive of an aetiological link. Although facial nerve palsies have been documented in meningococcal meningitis [1] they have so far not been described in meningococcal septicaemia alone. Although no lumbar puncture was performed, there was no clinical suggestion of meningitis in this child at any time. Seventh nerve palsy has been described as secondary to multiple causes including many infections [2, 4, 5, 6], however the timing of the event in this child after 9 days of antibiotics does not suggest a direct infective mechanism. Although late complications may occur due to antibody complex disease, the focal nature of this suggests a more mechanical cause. We suspect that the aetiology may have been associated with a local purpuric area in the facial canal which became necrotic and resulted in oedema with compression of the facial nerve. This case highlights that in addition to peripheral neuropathy [3, 7], which has rarely been described, peripheral cranial nerve lesions may complicate meningococcal septicaemia and make a full recovery.
Alternate pathways of L-rhamnose transport in Arthrobacter pyridinolis.

Abstract Phosphoenolpyruvate: hexose phosphotransferase-negative mutants of Arthrobacterpyridinolis fail to grow on l -rhamnose. Although phosphoenolpyruvate: l -rhamnose phosphotransferase activity could not be consistently demonstrated in extracts of rhamnose-grown cells, low levels of phosphoenolpyruvate-dependent uptake of rhamnose were found using isolated membrane vesicles from rhamnose-grown cells. This uptake was not inhibited by uncoupling agents or an inhibitor of the respiratory chain. Phosphotransferase-negative mutants could grow on l -rhamnose if l -malate was also present in the medium. l -Malate- and succinate-dependent uptake of rhamnose was found in membrane vesicles. Either of the two oxidizable substrates caused a 5-fold stimulation of the rate of l -rhamnose uptake over that observed in the absence of additions. Malate-dependent l -rhamnose uptake had a K m for rhamnose of 2.9 × 10 −6 m . It was inhibited by uncoupling agents, inhibitors of the respiratory chain, and sulfhydryl reagents.
The Missing Missing Toward a Quantification of Serial Murder Victimization in the United States

Although early attempts to estimate the number of serial murder victims in the United States varied greatly and were exaggerated, current estimates may actually underestimate the number of serial m...
Gabor-based RF-DNA fingerprinting for classifying 802.16e WiMAX Mobile Subscribers

Previous work has demonstrated the viability of using RF-DNA fingerprinting to provide serial number discrimination of IEEE 802.11a WiFi devices as a means to augment conventional bit-level security. This was done using RF-DNA extracted from signal regions containing standard pre-defined responses (preamble, midamble, etc.). Using these responses, proof-of-concept demonstrations with RF-DNA fingerprinting have shown some effectiveness for providing serial number discrimination. The discrimination challenge increases considerably when pre-defined signal responses are not present. This challenge is addressed here using experimentally collected IEEE 802.16e WiMAX signals from Alvarion BreezeMAX Mobile Subscriber (MS) devices. Relative to previous Time Domain (TD) and Spectral Domain (SD) fingerprint features, joint time-frequency Gabor (GT) and Gabor-Wigner (GWT) Transform features are considered here as a means to extract greater device discriminating information. For comparison, RF-DNA is extracted from TD, SD, GT, and GWT responses and MDA/ML feature extraction and classification performed. Preliminary assessment shows that Gabor-based RF-DNA fingerprinting is much more effective than either TD or SD methods. GT RF-DNA fingerprinting achieves individual WiMAX MS device classification of 98.5% or better for SNR ≥ −3 dB.
The regulation of cyclooxygenase-1 and -2 in knockout cells and mice.

Prostaglandins (PGs) are vital modulators of tissue homeostasis and their aberrant production can result in serious pathophysiological consequences (Goetzl et al., 1995). PG biosynthesis is regulated by successive metabolic steps involving the phospholipase A2 (PLA2)-mediated release of arachidonic acid (AA) and its conversion to PGs by cyclooxygenase, hydroperoxidase and isomerase activities, respectively (Smith et al., 1996). Conversion of AA to PGH2, the committed step in prostanoid biosynthesis, is mediated by cyclooxygenases (COX), COX-1 and COX-2, which are encoded by two unique genes, located on different chromosomes (Smith et al., 1996). Generally, while COX-1 is constitutively expressed, the expression of COX-2 is highly inducible (Smith et al., 1996). Based on their respective modes of expression, it is thought that COX-1 is primarily involved in cellular homeostasis while COX-2 plays a major role in inflammation and mitogenesis. The COX isoenzymes are the primary targets for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which act by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase activity of COX-1 and COX-2, thereby blocking their ability to convert AA to PGG2 (Vane and Botting, 1995).
A Lock-Free Priority Queue Design Based on Multi-Dimensional Linked Lists

The throughput of concurrent priority queues is pivotal to multiprocessor applications such as discrete event simulation, best-first search and task scheduling. Existing lock-free priority queues are mostly based on skiplists, which probabilistically create shortcuts in an ordered list for fast insertion of elements. The use of skiplists eliminates the need of global rebalancing in balanced search trees and ensures logarithmic sequential search time on average, but the worst-case performance is linear with respect to the input size. In this paper, we propose a quiescently consistent lock-free priority queue based on a multi-dimensional list that guarantees worst-case search time of $\mathcal {O}(\log N)$ for key universe of size $N$ . The novel multi-dimensional list (MDList) is composed of nodes that contain multiple links to child nodes arranged by their dimensionality. The insertion operation works by first injectively mapping the scalar key to a high-dimensional vector, then uniquely locating the target position by using the vector as coordinates. Nodes in MDList are ordered by their coordinate prefixes and the ordering property of the data structure is readily maintained during insertion without rebalancing nor randomization. In our experimental evaluation using a micro-benchmark, our priority queue achieves an average of $50$ percent speedup over the state of the art approaches under high concurrency.
Epidermal Growth Factor Activates Phosphoinositide Turnover and Protein Kinase C in BALB/MK Keratinocytes

BALB/MK is a nontransformed epithelial cell line derived from primary BALB/c mouse keratinocytes that requires epidermal growth factor (EGF) for growth. Using a defined-medium culture system, we investigated the role of physiological concentrations of EGF on phosphoinositide metabolism in these cells. The results show that EGF rapidly activates phospholipase-C mediated phosphoinositide metabolism resulting in the generation of the second messengers inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and diacylglycerol. These metabolites control intracellular Ca2+ levels and activate protein kinase C, respectively. Protein kinase C activation in response to EGF was evidenced by the phosphorylation of the acidic 80 kilodalton endogenous protein substrate (p80) specific for this kinase. In contrast, insulin, which acts in concert with EGF to cause BALB/MK cell proliferation, had no effect on phosphoinositide metabolism nor led to any additional stimulation when added in combination with EGF. Taken together, our results show that r...
Droplet Trajectories and Collection on Fan Rotor at Off-Design Conditions

A numerical investigation is conducted to study water droplet collection on a high bypass turbofan engine booster rotor under different rotational speeds. An Eulerian-Lagrangian approach is used in formulating the flow and droplet governing equations in the rotating reference frame. A one-way interaction model is used to model the effects of momentum and energy exchange effects with the flow on the droplets as they travel through the rotor. Results are presented for the computed flow field, droplet trajectories, water collection efficiency and droplet exit mass and temperature profiles at 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, and 100% design rotational speeds. The highest collection is predicted near the tip at the pressure surfaces leading edge. It then drops considerably at 40%–60% of the booster rotor blade chord and remains low over the aft portion of the pressure side. In general, the rotor blade collection efficiency is strongly influenced by rotor speed and increases as the rotational speed decreases.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Volcanism in the cratered terrain hemisphere of Mars

Four kinds of Martian volcanoes and their prevalences in the cratered terrain hemisphere (generally the southern hemisphere) are described. Patera, which are large low-profile volcanic structures, appear to be either older shield volcanoes or a unique type of volcano. 'Plains' volcanics represent low-volume eruptions that formed cones, low shields, and other small-scale structures. Flood volcanics are produced by high-volume eruptions, post-date the older and more degraded plateau plains, and occur mostly as basin-fill materials. Plateau plains, the Martian intercrater plains, contain many wrinkle ridges and floor-fractured craters. It is suggested that volcanic processes as well as erosional processes have been important in obliterating small Martian craters and that volcanic products may constitute a significant fraction (up to 44%) of the surface rocks in the cratered terrain
Spatial and temporal patterns of carbon storage and species richness in three South Carolina coastal plain riparian forests

Abstract The distribution of organic matter within a floodplain is a controlling factor affecting water quality, habitat, and food webs. Accordingly, development of vegetation in the riparian zone can be expected to influence ecosystem functions, and organic matter storage patterns are believed to be indicators of functional recovery in disturbed riparian zones. Our objective was to compare the distribution and allocation of organic matter among microsites within the floodplain and with temporal changes (successional status) associated with community development. Three third order streams in the upper coastal plain of South Carolina were selected. Measurement transects were established across three floodplains of varying successional status, Meyer's branch; a mature riparian hardwood forest; Fourmile branch; a mid-successional riparian forest; and Pen Branch, an early successional riparian forest. Overall, measurements of aboveground biomass, soil carbon, and stand structure indicate that the early and mid successional stands are becoming more similar to the mature stand and that microsite differences within the braided, riparian stream systems are small.
Cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships between cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers and cognitive function in people without cognitive impairment from across the adult life span.

Importance Age-related cognitive decline among older individuals with normal cognition is a complex trait that potentially derives from processes of aging, inherited vulnerabilities, environmental factors, and common latent diseases that can progress to cause dementia, such as Alzheimer disease and vascular brain injury. Objective To use cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers to gain insight into this complex trait. Design, Setting, and Participants Secondary analyses of an academic multicenter cross-sectional (n = 315) and longitudinal (n = 158) study of 5 neuropsychological tests (Immediate Recall, Delayed Recall, Trail Making Test Parts A and B, and Category Fluency) in cognitively normal individuals aged 21 to 100 years. Main Outcomes and Measures To investigate the association of these cognitive function test results with age, sex, educational level, inheritance of the e4 allele of the apolipoprotein E gene, and CSF concentrations of β-amyloid 42 (Aβ42) and tau (biomarkers of Alzheimer disease) as well as F 2 -isoprostanes (measures of free radical injury). Results Age and educational level were broadly predictive of cross-sectional cognitive performance; of the genetic and CSF measures, only greater CSF F 2 -isoprostane concentration was significantly associated with poorer executive function (adjusted R 2 ≤0.31). Longitudinal measures of cognitive abilities, except Category Fluency, also were associated broadly with age; of the genetic and CSF measures, only lower baseline CSF Aβ42 concentration was associated with longitudinal measures of immediate and delayed recall (marginal R 2 ≤0.31). Conclusions and Relevance Our results suggest that age and educational level accounted for a substantial minority of variance in cross-sectional or longitudinal cognitive test performance in this large group of cognitively normal adults. Latent Alzheimer disease and other diseases that produce free radical injury, such as vascular brain injury, accounted for a small amount of variation in cognitive test performance across the adult human life span. Additional genetic and environmental factors likely contribute substantially to age-related cognitive decline.
Noncooperative approaches to the theory of perfect competition: Presentation

Modern Walrasian economics (as presented, for example, in Debreu’s “Theory of Value” or Arrow and Hahn’s “General Competitive Analysis”) provides an analysis of the decentralized economic coordination problem under the hypothesis that prices are publicly quoted and are viewed by economic agents as exogenously given, If we regard this as the Hypothesis of Perfect Competition, then modern Walrasian economics is a theory of perfect competition only in the sense of examining the consequences of the Hypothesis but not in that of giving a theoretical explanation of the Hypothesis itself. It is the latter line of enquiry which will interest us here. The received body of economic doctrine abounds with theories of perfect competition (see Stigler [19]). The 19th-century contributions of Cournot [2] and Edgeworth [4] are remarkable cases in point. It was precisely in order to explain perfect competition (in terms of the insignificance of individual economic agents) that they, respectively, invented the concepts that modern game theorists call Noncooperative Equilibrium and the Core. Under the impetus of the rediscovery of the Core concept by game theorists, Edgeworth’s theory of perfect competition has been subject to extensive and rigorous elaboration in the last two decades (see Hildenbrand [9] for a presentation of the current state of the theory). Nothing of this sort has happened with Cournot’s equilibrium concept. Although his partialequilibrium example is widely known and highly attuned to the ways economists informally think about competition, it has proven resistant to generalization. This situation is beginning to change. In the last few years, several papers have laid the groundwork for what we shall call the Noncooperative Theory of Perfect Competition (e.g., Gabszewicz and Vial [5], Hart [7], Novshek and Sonnenschein [l 11, Shubik [18], Shapley [17], Dubey and Shapley [3], Jaynes
Factors predictive of response to cyclosporin treatment for severe, steroid-resistant ulcerative colitis

Factors predictive of response to cyclosporin treatment for severe, steroid-resistant ulcerative colitis
Intestinal crypts reproducibly expand in culture

Abstract Background In vitro growth techniques for intestinal crypts and single intestinal stem cells have been recently described, but several questions of translational importance remain unaddressed. The purpose of this study was to first, evaluate if intestinal crypts reproducibly expand in vitro ; second, determine the impact of age and region of intestine on crypt growth in vitro ; and third, determine the effects of cryopreservation on crypt growth in vitro. Methods and materials Crypts were harvested from 5 cm of proximal, middle, and distal small intestine of C57BL/6J mice aged 4 wk, 6–8 wk, 12–14 wk, and 18–20 wk ( n = 4–6 animals) and cultured. For each region, we determined the efficiency of crypts forming enterospheres (day 1) and progressing to enteroids (day 7). Subsequently, enteroids were passaged and cryopreserved to determine if growth was changed by these manipulations. Results Forty-three to 99% of intestinal crypts formed enterospheres, with higher efficiency in proximal small intestine and in younger mice. Twenty-five to 64% of enterospheres progressed to budding enteroids within 7 d. In vitro expansion was greater in proximal enteroids. This expansion continued in a logarithmic fashion, with ∼97% replating efficiency of isolated enteroid crypt buds. Following cryopreservation, ∼90% of enteroids recovered normal proliferative capacity. Conclusions Intestinal crypt culture is efficient and significantly expands intestinal tissue in a reproducible manner. Regional and age growth differences may reflect distinct stem cell characteristics or differences in support cells. The ability to culture and expand intestinal tissue in vitro provides a potential translational approach toward understanding and treating patients with short bowel syndrome.
Treating Hispanic Patients for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Special Considerations

The number of Hispanic people in the United States with diagnosed diabetes mellitus is projected to increase by 107% by 2020. The author presents the case of a 62-year-old obese Hispanic man, with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), diabetic peripheral neuropathy, background retinopathy, and diabetic nephropathy. The patient also had diagnosed hypertension, peripheral vascular disease, and hyperlipidemia. The treatment plan for this patient included the following medications: pioglitazone hydrochloride (a thiazolidinedione, 30 mg/d); irbesartan (an angiotensin receptor blocker, 150 mg/d titrated to 300 mg/d); hydrochlorothiazide (an antikaliuretic agent, 12.5 mg/d); and aspirin (325 mg/d). Sitagliptin phosphate (a dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitor, 50 mg/d) was added to the treatment regimen to improve glycemic control. Simvastatin (20 mg/d) and niacin (1 g/d) were used for lipid management. Therapy also included a low-protein diet and walking program. At 6-month follow-up, the patient showed substantial improvement in his glycosylated hemoglobin level, lipid profile, blood pressure, creatinine clearance rate, and urine albumin level. There were also improvements in his peripheral vascular disease and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Furthermore, the patient demonstrated encouraging progress in diet and lifestyle modification and in mental attitude.
Small molecule inhibition of 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase suppresses t cell activation.

T cell activation is associated with a rapid increase in intracellular fructose-2,6-bisphosphate (F2,6BP), an allosteric activator of the glycolytic enzyme, 6-phosphofructo-1-kinase. The steady state concentration of F2,6BP in T cells is dependent on the expression of the bifunctional 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatases (PFKFB1-4) and the fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase, TIGAR. Of the PFKFB family of enzymes, PFKFB3 has the highest kinase:bisphosphatase ratio and has been demonstrated to be required for T cell proliferation. A small molecule antagonist of PFKFB3, 3-(3-pyridinyl)-1-(4-pyridinyl)-2-propen-1-one (3PO), recently has been shown to reduce F2,6BP synthesis, glucose uptake and proliferation in transformed cells. We hypothesized that the induction of PFKFB3 expression may be required for the stimulation of glycolysis in T cells and that exposure to the PFKFB3 antagonist, 3PO, would suppress T cell activation. We examined PFKFB1-4 and TIGAR expression and F2,6BP concentration in purified CD3+ T cells stimulated with microbead-conjugated agonist antibodies specific for CD3 and the co-stimulatory receptor, CD28. We then determined the effect of 3PO on anti-CD3/anti-CD28-induced T cell activation, F2,6BP synthesis, 2-[1-14C]-deoxy-d-glucose uptake, lactate secretion, TNF-α secretion and proliferation. Finally, we examined the effect of 3PO administration on the development of delayed type hypersensitivity to methylated BSA and on imiquimod-induced psoriasis in mice. We found that purified human CD3+ T cells express PFKFB2, PFKFB3, PFKFB4 and TIGAR, and that anti-CD3/anti-CD28 conjugated microbeads stimulated a >20-fold increase in F2,6BP with a coincident increase in protein expression of the PFKFB3 family member and a decrease in TIGAR protein expression. We then found that exposure to the PFKFB3 small molecule antagonist, 3PO (1–10 μM), markedly attenuated the stimulation of F2,6BP synthesis, 2-[1-14C]-deoxy-D-glucose uptake, lactate secretion, TNF-α secretion and T cell aggregation and proliferation. We examined the in vivo effect of 3PO on the development of delayed type hypersensitivity to methylated BSA and on imiquimod-induced psoriasis in mice and found that 3PO suppressed the development of both T cell-dependent models of immunity in vivo. Our data demonstrate that inhibition of the PFKFB3 kinase activity attenuates the activation of T cells in vitro and suppresses T cell dependent immunity in vivo and indicate that small molecule antagonists of PFKFB3 may prove effective as T cell immunosuppressive agents.
Detection with distributed sensors

The extension of classical detection theory, based on the theory of statistical hypothesis testing, to the case of distributed sensors is discussed. The development is based on the formulation of a decentralized or team hypothesis testing problem. Theoretical results concerning the form of the optimal decision rule, examples, application to data fusion, and open problems are presented.
Experience with representing C++ program information in an object-oriented database

Two major issues related to storing program information in an OODB are sharing and clustering. The former is important since it prevents the database from consuming excessive disk space, while the latter is crucial, since it keeps clients running without thrashing. In our database, objects are shared across multiple programs' translation units, and are clustered by combining three techniques, namely, birth-order, death-order, and sharing-oriented clusterings. An initial experiment shows that, for a medium-size application, the database consumes 3.5 times less disk space than in a conventional environment, and that the invocation of a client is almost instantaneous.
Are Pets a Healthy Pleasure? The Influence of Pets on Blood Pressure:

Pet owners often describe their pets as important and cherished family members who offer solace in times of stress. This article considers evidence suggesting that pets influence human blood pressure. Studies on this topic extend current research testing the hypothesis that having other people around in stressful times can buffer the negative consequences of stress. The existing data suggest that people perceive pets as important, supportive parts of their lives and that the presence of a pet is associated with significant cardiovascular benefits, among both people with normal blood pressure and those with high blood pressure. Studies about pets and blood pressure have examined both naturally occurring and randomly assigned pet ownership but are limited by their focus on responses to short-term, acute stress. Future prospective studies should explore the influence of pets on people at risk for cardiovascular disease and also consider explanatory mechanisms for the pet effect.
Technetium-99m-EC and other potential new agents in renal nuclear medicine

Search for the ideal radiopharmaceutical to measure effective renal plasma flow (ERPF) has been underway since the early 1960s. Although ortho-iodohippuran (OIH) has biological properties suited for measurement of ERPF, the imaging characteristics are less than desirable. With the advent of the molybdenum-99/technetium-99m generators, efforts have focused on the development of a technetium-99m agent to measure ERPF. Over the last 10 to 15 years several promising technetium-99m renal imaging agents have been developed. Early examples of technetium-99m renal agents such as 99mTc-CO2DADS and 99mTc-PAHIDA, although not ideal replacements for OIH, demonstrated that a technetium-99m complex could be actively transported by the renal tubules and provided the impetus for development of new technetium-99m renal agents. The next breakthrough in technetium-99m renal agents was the development of the triamide mercaptide class of chelating agents by Fritzberg et al. To date the most promising compound in this class is mercaptoacetyltriglycine (MAG3). 99mTc-MAG3 is currently the agent of choice, but it is by no means the perfect replacement for OIH. Problems with high plasma protein binding and clearances that are only 50% to 60% of the OIH clearance make measurement of ERPF difficult. The serendipitous discovery that metabolites of the brain agent 99mTc-ethylenedicysteine diethylester (99mTc-L,L-ECD) are rapidly excreted in the urine has led to the evaluation of 99mTc-L,L-ethylenedicysteine (99mTc-L,L-ECD) as a potential renal imaging agent. Studies that have evaluated 99mTc-L,L-EC in animals, normal human volunteers, and patients with various renal disorders reveal that the renal clearance of 99mTc-L,L-EC is higher than 99mTc-MAG3 and more closely approaches that of OIH. Other approaches that are being examined in the development of the ideal renal imaging agent include substitution of various amino acids for glycine residue in MAG3 and technetium-99m labeled organic cations.
Suicide attempts among sexual-minority male youth

The purpose of this study was to provide data addressing Diamond's (this issue) 4 problem areas in sexual orientation research by comparing gay, bisexual, and questioning male youth who report attempting suicide with those who do not. Secondary analyses were conducted with 2 datasets, 1 with a gay support group (n = 51) and the other with online youth (n = 681). Reported suicide attempts ranged from 39% among support-group youth, to 25% among Internet gay support group youth, to 9% among Internet non-support group youth. Sexual orientation, behavior, and identity did not predict suicidal attempt status, but suicide attempters experienced higher levels of both generic life stressors (low self-esteem, substance use, victimization) and gay-related stressors, particularly those directly related to visible (femininity) and behavioral (gay sex) aspects of their sexual identity. Support-group attendance was related to higher levels of suicidality and life stressors, as well as certain resiliency factors. Results suggest that there exists a minority of sexual-minority youth who are at risk but that it would be inappropriate to characterize the entire population as such.
Effects of sediment pulses on channel morphology in a gravel-bed river

Sediment delivery to stream channels in mountainous basins is strongly episodic, with large pulses of sediment typically delivered by infrequent landslides and debris flows. Identifying the role of large but rare sediment delivery events in the evolution of channel morphology and fluvial sediment transport is crucial to an understanding of the development of mountain basins. In July 2001, intense rainfall triggered numerous debris flows in a severely burnt watershed in the Sapphire Mountains of Montana. Ten large debris flow fans were deposited on the valley floor, and investigations focused on the channel response to these sediment pulses. The channel has aggraded immediately upstream of each fan, and braided in reaches immediately downstream. Channel incision through the fans has created sets of coarse-grained terraces. The deposition upstream of the pulses consists almost exclusively of fine material, resulting in a median bed material size ( D 50 ) 1–2 orders of magnitude lower than the ambient channel material. The volume of sand being transported is so great that these aggrading reaches can extend hundreds of meters upstream of the fans, with 1–2 m of sand deposited across the entire valley floor. Along a 10 km study reach, cross section surveys, longitudinal profiles, and pebble counts chronicle channel response to a punctuated increase in sediment supply and provide insight on the processes of sediment wave dispersal.
Physiological predictors of long-term survival in juvenile Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus)

This study builds on a continued effort to document potential long-term research impacts on the individual, as well as to identify potential markers of survival for use in a field framework. The Transient Juvenile Steller sea lion (TJ) project was developed as a novel framework to gain access to wild individuals. We used three analyses to evaluate and predict long-term survival in temporarily captive sea lions (n = 45) through Cormack-Jolly-Seber open population modelling techniques. The first analysis investigated survival in relation to the observed responses to handling stress through changes in six principal blood parameters over the duration of captivity. The second analysis evaluated survival compared with body condition and mass at entry and exit from captivity. Finally, the third analysis sought to evaluate the efficacy of single-point sampling to project similar survival trends for use in field sampling operations. Results from a priori models ranked through Akaike information criterion model selection methods indicated that mass gains (4.2 ± 12%) over captivity and increases in leucocytes (WBC, 1.01 ± 3.54 × 10(3)/mm(3)) resulted in a higher average survival rate (>3 years). Minor support was identified for the single-point measures of exit mass and entry WBC. A higher exit mass predicted a higher survival rate, whereas a higher WBC predicted a lower survival rate. While changes in mass and WBC appear to be the best predictors of survival when measured as a change over time, single-point sampling may still be an effective way to improve estimates of population health.
A Single Intravitreal Injection of Ranibizumab Provides No Neuroprotection in a Nonhuman Primate Model of Moderate-to-Severe Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy.

Nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is caused by inadequate blood supply to the optic nerve head (i.e., the optic disc) and is the leading cause of sudden optic nerve-related vision loss in individuals over 50 years old.1 In the United States, it affects 2.3 to 10.2 per 100,000 people over 50 years of age,2,3 resulting in over 10,000 new cases per year. Very little is understood concerning the pathophysiology of the disease, and there currently is no medical or surgical treatment that has been proven to be consistently beneficial.4 We have developed reproducible rodent and nonhuman primate models of NAION (rNAION, pNAION) using an intravenous (IV) injection of rose Bengal (RB) followed by intraocular laser photoactivation of the dye at the optic nerve head (ONH). This technique produces an optic neuropathy that, despite having a different etiology, clinically, electrophysiologically, and histopathologically resembles human NAION.5–8 These models provide an invaluable resource because they can be used to analyze critically the mechanisms resulting in post ischemic ON damage, and because they can be used as tools in the evaluation of potential neuroprotective and neuroreparative therapies for patients who experience NAION. One of the many treatments suggested to improve visual outcome in patients with NAION is IVT injection of one of the VEGF antagonists. For example, Bennett et al.9 reported a small series of patients in whom treatment of acute NAION with a single IVT injection of 1.25 mg of the anti-VEGF agent bevacizumab was associated with an improved visual outcome; however, a small nonrandomized prospective trial (17 patients treated; 8 patients not treated) using the same treatment failed to show any benefit in visual outcome or peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (PRNFL) thickness (as assessed using optical coherence tomography [OCT]) between treated and nontreated subjects.10 In addition, Huang et al.11 reported no beneficial effect of IVT ranibizumab in adult rats with laser-induced AION as assessed by measurements of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) densities, flash-evoked VEP latencies and amplitudes, number of apoptotic cells in the RGC layer, and ED1-positive cells per high-power field. Not only may IVT injections of anti-VEGF agents be nontherapeutic, they may cause harm. Several cases have been reported in which the development of NAION was related temporally to an IVT injection of an anti-VEGF agent for AMD.12,13 In light of this controversy, we elected to test the efficacy of ranibizumab (Lucentis; Genentech, San Francisco, CA, USA) in our pNAION model.
Inhibition of Cholesterol Absorption by Natural Products

There have been numerous reports on the hypocholesteremic properties of a variety of materials derived from biological sources and foods. These include vegetable oils (e.g. 1) and in particular, the plant sterols,1fish and shellfish oils,3,4 and the sterols contained in these oils,5,6 plant fibers and specific fiber components, such as the pectins (e.g. 7) and more recently, some of the acetylated aminopolysaccharides derived from the exoskeleton of certain shellfish.8,9 These communications reflect on the continuing interest in describing the importance of conponents of natural foods in maintaining circulating lipid levels and reducing diet — induced hypercholesteremias.
Photo-cross-linkable thermoresponsive star polymers designed for control of cell-surface interactions

Star polymers with thermoresponsive arms, consisting of 2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethyl methacrylate (MEO2MA) and oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate with ∼4 ethylene oxide units (OEOMA300, Mn = 300), were synthesized via atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). 25% of the arms contained benzophenone chain-end functionality at the star periphery. A mixture of linear poly(MEO2MA-co-OEOMA300)-Br macroinitiators without and with benzophenone end-group macroinitiators were (MI and Bzp-MI, respectively) cross-linked with ethylene glycol dimethacrylate to form star polymers. Formation of star polymers was monitored by GPC, and the presence of benzophenone functionality in the stars was confirmed by 1H NMR. The UV−vis spectroscopy revealed that the star polymers exhibit the low critical solution temperature (LCST) at 27 °C, slightly lower than LCST of either MI or Bzp-MI. Commercially available tissue culture grade polystyrene surface was modified by depositing a thin film of functionalized stars and UV cross-linki...
Substance abuse and AIDS: a faculty development program for primary care providers.

The authors implemented a three-day faculty development program on substance abuse and AIDS for primary care faculty. Objectives included: 1) increased knowledge concerning clinical issues; 2) skill development focusing on provider-patient interactions; and 3) the development of educational approaches for teaching about substance abuse and AIDS. Teaching formats included didactic (40%) and experiential (60%) sessions emphasizing role playing with patients affected by both substance abuse and HIV infection. Four courses have been given to 109 participants, who have rated the course highly in terms of its educational quality (4.4/5.0) and usefulness (4.2/5.0). At six-month follow-up, 75% of the participants reported enhanced teaching as a result of this faculty development program.
Antigenicity of Cholesterol Induced Chicken Atheroma.

SummaryRabbit antibodies were produced in response to cholesterol induced chicken atheroma and chicken normal intima. Properties of these antisera were studied by complement fixation and described by isofixation curves. It was found that anti-atheroma sera reacted best with atheroma antigen and in addition reacted well with a wide variety of other chicken tissues. Anti-normal intima sera reacted well with either intima or atheroma antigen and had a limited spectrum of reactivity with other tissues. In vivo activity of these antisera could not be demonstrated.The authors wish to acknowledge Dr. Irwin Lepow for his valuable guidance and Juris Dakters for his technical assistance.
Retrospective analysis of adverse drug reactions in 1 585 cases in Yishui County

Objective: To investigate the incidence rate of adverse drug reactions(ADR) in Yishui country;Study the occurrence rule of ADR and provide guidance for reasonable clinical medication.Methods: 1 585 ADR case reports in Yishui country were summarized and analyzed by Excel 2003 in terms of patient's age,gender,the identity of ADR reporter,the administration route and other aspects.Results: ADR occured in any age group,especially more in males and elderly people.The cases were reported mainly by doctors from medical institution.Intravenous infusion was the major ADR administration route;the gastrointestinal system damage was the most common clinical manifestations;ADR was caused generally by antimicrobial agents,and the new ADR mostly happened in traditional Chinese medicine injection.Conclusion: We should enhance ADR education,pay more attention to the risks of intravenous medication,choose the antimicrobial agents reasonably and be careful in using of traditional Chinese medicine injections.