cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
New microbe genomic variants in patients fecal community following surgical disruption of the upper human gastrointestinal tract

Abstract Recent studies have shown that microbe strains in normal individuals fecal microbe community are relatively stable over time. Given the role the gut microbe community plays in human health, it is important to understand if disruption of the gastrointestinal tract environment results in emergence of new genomic variants. To address this, we have used a new technique called Window-based single nucleotide similarity (WSS) to analyze the impact of several surgical procedures of the human gastrointestinal tract on the stability of the fecal microbes. Previously, we established a WSS boundary score cutoff to determine if microbe genomic variants were similar. Based on analysis of normal individuals from the Human Microbiome Project, 93% of microbes in paired fecal samples up to 1 year apart were above the cutoff, indicating similar (stable) microbes. For the current study, we analyzed fecal samples from 18 patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or 6 patients undergoing gastric sleeve for extreme obesity. From comparison of the pre-RYGB versus 1–2 year post RYGB samples from the same patients, 65% of the WSS were above the boundary cutoff, while for pre versus 1–2 year samples post surgery for patients undergoing sleeve gastrectomy, 75% of the WSS were above the cutoff. In contrast, analysis of fecal samples from 5 patients pre and post removal of segments of the sigmoid colon revealed that 97% of WSS scores were above the cutoff. Our study establishes emergence of new microbe genomic variants in the fecal community following alteration of the upper gastrointestinal environment.
Probability of streamflow permanence model (PROSPER): A spatially continuous model of annual streamflow permanence throughout the Pacific Northwest

Abstract The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has developed the PRObability of Streamflow PERmanence (PROSPER) model, a GIS raster-based empirical model that provides streamflow permanence probabilities (probabilistic predictions) of a stream channel having year-round flow for any unregulated and minimally-impaired stream channel in the Pacific Northwest region, U.S. The model provides annual predictions for 2004–2016 at a 30-m spatial resolution based on monthly or annually updated values of climatic conditions and static physiographic variables associated with the upstream basin. Predictions correspond to any pixel on the channel network consistent with the medium resolution National Hydrography Dataset channel network stream grid. Total annual precipitation and percent forest cover were consistently the most important predictor variables among global and most subregional models, which had error rates between 17 and 22%. Probabilities were converted to wet and dry streamflow permanence classes with an associated confidence. Wet and dry classifications were used to derive descriptors that characterize the statistical and spatial distribution of streamflow permanence in three focal basins. Predicted dry channel segments account for 52–92% of the stream network across the three focal basins; streamflow permanence decreased during climatically drier years. Predictions are publicly available through the USGS StreamStats platform. Results demonstrate the utility of the PROSPER model as a tool for identifying areas that may be resilient or sensitive to drought conditions, allowing for management efforts that target protecting critical reaches. Importantly, PROSPER’s successful predictive performance can be improved with new datasets of streamflow permanence underscoring the importance of field observations.
Satellite hydrology observations as operational indicators of forecasted fire danger across the contiguous United States

Abstract. Traditional methods for assessing fire danger often depend on meteorological forecasts, which have reduced reliability after ∼10 d. Recent studies have demonstrated long lead-time correlations between pre-fire-season hydrological variables such as soil moisture and later fire occurrence or area burned, yet the potential value of these relationships for operational forecasting has not been studied. Here, we use soil moisture data refined by remote sensing observations of terrestrial water storage from NASA's Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) mission and vapor pressure deficit from NASA's Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) mission to generate monthly predictions of fire danger at scales commensurate with regional management. We test the viability of predictors within nine US geographic area coordination centers (GACCs) using regression models specific to each GACC. Results show that the model framework improves interannual wildfire-burned-area prediction relative to climatology for all GACCs. This demonstrates the importance of hydrological information to extend operational forecast ability into the months preceding wildfire activity.
The Regime Change Consensus: Iraq in American Politics, 1990-2003

Why did the United States invade Iraq, setting off a chain of events that profoundly changed the Middle East and the US global position? The Regime Change Consensus offers a compelling look at how the United States pivoted from a policy of containment to regime change in Iraq after September 11, 2001. Starting with the Persian Gulf War, the book traces how a coalition of political actors argued with increasing success that the totalitarian nature of Saddam Hussein's regime and the untrustworthy behavior of the international coalition behind sanctions meant that containment was a doomed policy. By the end of the 1990s, a consensus belief emerged that only regime change and democratization could fully address the Iraqi threat. Through careful examination, Joseph Stieb expands our understanding of the origins of the Iraq War while also explaining why so many politicians and policymakers rejected containment after 9/11 and embraced regime change.
Citation Analysis of Mathematics and Statistics Dissertations and Theses from the University at Albany

This study analyzed dissertations and theses completed from 2009–2019 in the Mathematics and Statistics department at the University at Albany to investigate resource type, citation age, publishers...
Drug-induced Acute Angle-closure Glaucoma: A Review.

Aim Our goal is to review current literature regarding drug-induced acute angle-closure glaucoma (AACG) and provide ophthalmologists and general practitioners with a thorough understanding of inciting medications and treatment pitfalls to be avoided. Background Drug-induced AACG is an ophthalmological emergency that ophthalmologists and general practitioners should be familiar with, given its potentially blinding consequences. Common anatomical risk factors for AACG include a shallow anterior chamber depth, short axial length, plateau iris configuration, thick lens, anteriorly positioned lens, and rarely, intraocular tumor. Demographic risk factors include female sex, Asian ethnicity, family history, and advanced age. In patients with predisposing factors, acute angle closure can be triggered by various classes of medications including adrenergic agonists, anticholinergics, cholinergics, sulfonamides, supplements, and serotonergic medications. Physicians prescribing such inciting medications should be aware of their potentially sight-threatening adverse effects and to inform patients of the warning symptoms. Patients typically present with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), headache, nausea, blurry vision, and halos around lights. Review results There are two main mechanisms of drug-induced AACG, both with different treatment strategies. The first mechanism of drug-induced AACG is pupillary block and iridocorneal angle closure secondary to thickening of iris base with mydriasis. The second mechanism of drug-induced AACG is anterior displacement of the lens-iris diaphragm due to mass effect (e.g., blood, misdirected aqueous humor, and tumors), uveal effusion, or weakened zonules. Conclusion This paper reviews drug-induced AACG, high-risk anatomical features, underlying mechanisms, inciting medications, and options for treatment and prevention. Clinical significance With proper understanding of the underlying mechanism of drug-induced AACG, physicians can respond promptly to save their patients' vision by employing the correct treatment strategy. How to cite this article Yang MC, Lin KY. Drug-induced Acute Angle-closure Glaucoma: A Review. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2019;13(3):104-109.
In experienced hands, does the robotic platform impact operative efficiency? Comparison of the da Vinci Si versus Xi robot in colorectal surgery

Robotic surgical platforms have aimed to assist surgeons in meeting the challenges accompanying minimally invasive colon and rectal surgical procedures. Since early adoption over decade ago, there has been an evolution of the robotic platforms aimed at improved usability. We hypothesize, when compared to da Vinci Si, the Xi will allow for greater efficiency and result in shorter operative times. A case log review was completed for a single colorectal surgeon with 7 years’ robotic experience, totaling over 800 cases. Patients were identified using CPT code S2900 (robot) for the most recent 15 months (January 2018–March 2019) contemporaneously at two tertiary care teaching hospitals; one equipped with the Si platform and the other with the Xi. A retrospective chart review of patients undergoing sigmoid colon resection or low anterior rectal resection (LAR) was completed. Categorical values were assessed using Fisher’s exact test or Chi-square tests. Continuous data was compared using unpaired t test. 158 patients were identified as undergoing robotic major colonic surgical resection. A total of 93 patients underwent robotic sigmoid resection or LAR and were grouped based on the robotic platform used (Si, n = 52 vs. Xi, n = 41). The Xi group had significantly shorter surgical times for LAR and sigmoid resection, 162 vs 238 min (p = 0.0001). In the hands of an experienced surgeon, the da Vinci Xi system results in shorter operative times when performing sigmoid resection or LAR compared to older platforms. The da Vinci Xi may allow for improved efficiency as reflected by shorter operative times.
Convex Synthesis of Strictly Negative Imaginary Feedback Controllers

This paper presents linear matrix inequality approaches to optimally synthesize strictly negative imaginary (SNI) dynamic output feedback controllers. In particular, convex controller synthesis methods are introduced that minimize either the weighted ${\mathcal{H}_2}$ or ${\mathcal{H}_\infty }$ norm of the difference between a specified optimal controller and the synthesized SNI controller. Numerical examples are included that demonstrate the performance and robustness of the proposed synthesis methods when used for the vibration control of an Euler-Bernoulli beam.
Design-flow methodology for secure group anonymous authentication

In heterogeneous distributed systems, computing devices and software components often come from different providers and have different security, trust, and privacy levels. In many of these systems, the need frequently arises to (i) control the access to services and resources granted to individual devices or components in a context-aware manner and (ii) establish and enforce data sharing policies that preserve the privacy of the critical information on end users. In essence, the need is to authenticate and anonymize an entity or device simultaneously, two seemingly contradictory goals. The design challenge is further complicated by potential security problems, such as man-in-the-middle attacks, hijacked devices, and counterfeits. In this work, we present a system design flow for a trustworthy group anonymous authentication protocol (GAAP), which not only fulfills the desired functionality for authentication and privacy, but also provides strong security guarantees.
A network analysis of symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder and depression in a clinical sample

Abstract McNally and colleagues (2017) provide preliminary evidence for the hypothesis that obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and depression symptoms co-occur because they create a network of interacting symptoms. Given the need to understand comorbidity between these symptoms and replicating network models, the aim of the current study was to examine a cross-sectional network of OCD and depression symptoms in an adult clinical sample diagnosed with OCD (n = 290). Participants completed self-report measures of OCD and depression symptoms. A network of regularized partial correlation coefficients was estimated using the graphical least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (GLASSO) with the Extended Bayesian Information Criterion (EBIC). Parameter estimates were also compared between McNally and colleagues’ (2017) results and the current findings to determine the consistency of trends. OCD and depression symptom clusters were bridged by an association between interference from obsessions and low energy, suggesting this is a key feature in the development of comorbidity. Distress related to obsessions emerged as the most highly central node in the network. Low energy, interference from compulsions, and resisting compulsions were also central to the network. These symptoms may be important targets for treatment. Overall, the majority of comparable parameters were consistent with previous work.
Copper-Catalyzed Defluorinative Borylation and Silylation of gem-Difluoroallyl Groups.

Stereodefined (Z)-fluoroalkenes are bioisosteres of amides and synthetic precursors to value-added fluorinated compounds, but their stereoselective synthesis remains challenging. Herein, we report ...
Preoperative Assessment in Augmentation Mastopexy

The treatment of the ptotic breast can be complex with the technique and result dependent on a variety of factors. When a mastopexy is deemed necessary, this can be performed alone or in conjunction with placement of a breast implant. Mastopexies alone are often inadequate to achieve the aesthetic goals of the patients, both in terms of volume and fullness in the upper pole. An augmentation mastopexy can provide stability of the results over time compared to a mastopexy alone.
Pain Scores and Opioid Use Following Preoperative Spinal Anesthesia for Benign Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

Study Objective To determine if spinal anesthesia prior to benign laparoscopic hysterectomy was associated with less pain and opioid use postoperatively. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Single institution regional referral center. Patients or Participants Patients were included who received the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol for benign laparoscopic hysterectomies in 2019. Patients undergoing additional non-gynecological surgeries, surgery for malignancy, had procedures converted to open, or who received TAP blocks were excluded, as were patients with chronic opioid exposure. Interventions The two cohorts included the treatment group who received preoperative spinal anesthesia (bupivacaine and morphine), and the control group who did not receive spinal anesthesia. All other ERAS components remained the same. Measurements and Main Results Primary outcomes were day of surgery (DOS) and postoperative day one (POD1) pain scores, opioid use inpatient and 60 days postoperatively. Pain scores were obtained using the 0 to 10 Numerical Rating Scale. Opioids were converted to oral morphine milliequivalents (OME). 200 patients were randomly selected from each cohort: 100 received spinal anesthesia, and 100 did not. Baseline demographics were similar between the two groups. Mean pain scores were significantly lower in the treatment than the control group on DOS (2.78 vs. 5.77, p Conclusion Preoperative morphine spinal injection for laparoscopic hysterectomy led to significantly lower pain scores and inpatient opioid consumption. Preoperative spinal anesthesia for benign laparoscopic hysterectomy may be helpful for enhancing the immediate postoperative experience.
Cluster properties and particle production in Poincaré invariant quantum mechanics

I outline the construction of exactly Poincare invariant quantum models that satisfy cluster separa- bility but do not conserve particle number. Few-body physics has been transformational in terms of how we understand low-energy nuclear physics. The suc- cess is largely due to the existence of uncoupled few-body problems that are directly related to experiment and cluster properties that relate the few and many-body Hamiltoni- ans. Thus, nucleon-nucleon interactions are fine tuned by comparing cross sections calculated using numerically ex- act solutions of the Lippmann-Schwinger equation to ex- perimental nucleon-nucleon cross sections. Cluster prop- erties fix how these nucleon-nucleon interactions appear in N>2-body Hamiltonians. Small corrections due to three- body interactions can also be fine tuned by comparing nu- merically exact solutions of the Faddeev equations with experiment. Cluster properties again fix how the two and three-body interactions appear in the N>3-body Hamilto- nians. The saturation of nuclear binding energies suggests that at nuclear densities two, three and possibly four-body interactions are suffi cient to construct Hamiltonians that provide an accurate description of most nuclei. The level of success achieved in low-energy nuclear physics has not been duplicated for energy scales above the threshold for the production of pions. There are a number of reasons for the increased diffi - culty: 1.) For energies approaching or above the GeV scale the Poincare group must be a symmetry of the theory so cal- culations in the laboratory and center of momentum frame are consistent. Cluster properties become more diffi cult to satisfy in Poincare invariant models. While cluster prop- erties can be satisfied for fixed number of particles(1)(2), there is no known systematic treatment of cluster prop- erties for few-body systems where particle number is not conserved. 2.) A consistent treatment of particle production also requires a Poincare symmetric treatment. Particle produc- tion violates Galilean invariance; momentum conservation
Dynamics of finely resolved, abundant symbiotic marine plankton and other interacting microbes via automated high-frequency sampling

Short time-scale observations are valuable for understanding microbial ecological processes. We assessed dynamics in relative abundance and potential activities by sequencing the small sub-unit ribosomal RNA gene (rDNA) and rRNA molecules (rRNA), of Bacteria, Archaea and Eukaryotes once to twice-daily between March and May in the surface ocean off Catalina Island, California. Typically Ostreococcus, Braarudosphaera, Teleaulax, and Synechococcus dominated phytoplankton sequences while SAR11, Sulfitobacter and Fluvicola dominated non-phytoplankton prokaryotes. We observed short-lived increases of diatoms, mostly Pseudo-nitzschia and Chaetoceros, with quickly-responding prokaryotes including Flavobacteria (Polaribacter, Formosa), Roseovarius, and Euryarchaea (MGII), which were the exact sequence variants we also observed as temporally most-abundant in another diatom bloom at a nearby location, 3 years prior. We observed positive correlations representing known interactions among abundant taxa in chloroplastic rRNA sequences, demonstrating the ecological relevance of such interactions and their influence on the environment: 1) The kleptochlorplastidic ciliate Myrionecta 18S and Teleaulax chloroplasts (16S) were correlated (Spearman r =0.83) yet uncorrelated to Teleaulax nuclear 18S, nor any other taxon and 2) the photosynthetic prymnesiophyte Braarudosphaera bigelowii and 2 strains of diazotrophic cyanobacterium UCYN-A were correlated and each was correlated to multiple other taxa, including Braarudosphaera to a Verrucomicrobium and a Dictyophyte phytoplankter (all r > 0.8). We also report strong correlations (r > 0.7) between ciliates and bacteria and phytoplankton, possibly representing mutually beneficial interactions. These data reiterate the utility of high-frequency time-series to show rapid microbial reactions to stimuli, and provide new information about in-situ dynamics of previously recognized and hypothesized interactions.
Raoult was right after all: Statistical mechanics derivation and volumetric validation

Abstract In prior work, we assumed that solutes hydrate and that water and the hydrated solutes form an ideal solution. These assumptions led to closed form solutions for both molality and solute activity as a function of water activity. Concentration-activity data of a wide range of solutes were accurately fit by the model. In this work we advance the model by (a) using statistical mechanics to derive the Gibbs free energy of the solute-water system and (b) applying the model to data for a number of sugars. The results show that the number of water molecules hydrogen bonded to the sugars is equal to the number of oxygen atoms in the sugar and that one free energy value, presumably the net hydrogen bond free energy, fits the concentration-activity data pretty well. The model also predicts the number of water molecules bound to the solute and the number of water molecules that are free. Hydration number as a function of water activity from the literature were compared to model predictions finding remarkable agreement.
An Exploratory Study of a New Vancomycin Eye Drops Formulation for Extemporaneous Compounding

Purpose:Compounded eye drop solutions of vancomycin hydrochloride have important clinical applications, such as postoperative antimicrobial prophylaxis and bacterial keratitis. There exists a pleth...
Converting raw coal powder into polycrystalline nano-graphite by metal-assisted microwave treatment

Abstract A metal-assisted microwave treatment that converting raw coal powders into nano-graphite is presented. Specifically, four major factors are identified for successful conversion: (1) high temperature; (2) reducing environment; (3) catalyst; and (4) microwave radiation. Specifically, it is determined that the combination of the carbon sources (raw coal powders), the high temperature (microwave induced electric sparking), the reducing environment (the Ar/H2 mixture), the catalyst (Cu foil), with the microwave radiations can generate nano-graphites. This novel approach utilizes the sparking induced by the microwave radiation on the fork-shape metal foils to generate high temperature (> 1000 oC) within few seconds. The small thermal load makes this method cost effective and has potential for higher temperature using metals with higher melting temperature. Refinement of this technique is possible to yield a higher quality and quantity of nano-graphite materials for a wider range of applications.
Including Multi-Scale Information in the Characterization of Hydraulic Conductivity Distributions

Abstract Transport in heterogeneous porous media is highly dependent on the spatial variability of aquifer properties, particularly hydraulic conductivity. It is impractical, however, when modeling a real situation, to obtain aquifer properties at the scale of each grid block. Wavelet transforms are investigated as a tool to assess the movement of information between scales, and to incorporate the scale and location of hydraulic conductivity test data when interpolating to a fine grid. Wavelet transforms are particularly useful as they include parameters that define a spatial localization center that can be positioned in space, and changed in size. As a result, one can incorporate multiple measured hydraulic conductivity values in the wavelet transformation at a resolution matched to each measurement scale. A multi-scale reconstruction method is developed here which uses forward and inverse wavelet transforms in conjunction with a pseudo-fractal distribution to fill in missing information around sparse data. This wavelet reconstruction method is compared to several more traditional interpolation schemes with respect to accuracy of solute transport prediction. The wavelet reconstruction algorithm is then used to examine the issue of optimum sample size and density for stationary and fractal random fields.
Out in the Cowboy State

Abstract We know relatively little about the lives and experiences of gays, lesbians, and bisexuals who live in rural areas, with early research tending to focus on the challenges of rural living. The present survey research examined the experiences and beliefs of gays and lesbians living in Wyoming. Findings highlight the interactions across personal, familial, community and societal levels. Differences based on gender and community size were found for the respondents' experiences with discrimination and their interest in the pursuit of “gay rights.” Of special interest is the importance ascribed to the geographical community and the paucity of community-based resources.
A dual-port DRAM component for a digital RF memory

The design and testing of a dual-port dynamic memory component for a digital radio frequency memory (DRFM) are described. The use of dynamic memory allows for greater storage capacity than the static memory. In addition, the dual-port nature of the memory allows for access by an external processor. The external processor may be used for signal processing applications such as parameter extraction. Several memory cell implementations were evaluated, and the three-transistor memory cell was selected. The cell was then modified for dual-port operation. Supporting circuitry such as address decoders and sense amplifiers was also designed. The component was simulated using both a high-level language (VHDL) and circuit descriptions (SPICE). A 32-word by 8-b memory was fabricated and tested to insure the validity of the design. >
NPR in the Wild

During the early years of computer graphics, the results were arguably not as realistic as the intended goal set forth. However, it was not until sometime later that non-realism was accepted as a goal worthwhile pursuing. Since then, NPR has matured considerably and found uses in numerous applications, ranging from movies and television, production tools, and games, to novelty and casual creativity apps on mobile devices. This chapter presents examples from each of these categories within their historical and applied context.
Polygraph Use in Business and Industry:: A Human Resource Management Analysis

Should the polygraph test be used in industry? The considerations involved are presented and assessed against practical examples.
Sintaxis de los pronombres en las Cartas de Domingo Elizondo

Un militar espanol, el Coronel Domingo Elizondo, fue enviado al Noroeste de la Nueva Espana en la sexta decada del siglo XVIII para encabezar una expedicion contra los indigenas de la region, la llamada "Expedicion de Sonora". Tenia el la obligacion de informar, por medio de cartas, a su comandante, el Gobernador Juan Claudio Pineda, sobre el progreso de la mision.
Effects of a response-cost procedure on the academic performance of retarded students

Abstract This study examined the effectiveness of a response-cost procedure for facilitating the academic performance (arithmetic problems) of three non-institutionalized adolescent retardates, using a multiple baseline across individuals. The response-cost procedure resulted in a significant increment in the percentage of problems completed correctly by all three subjects, suggesting that inferior academic performance of the retarded is, in part, a motivational deficit.
Deadtime correction in counting rapidly decaying sources

Abstract The classical problem of deadtime correction with a fixed paralysis is treated for rapid decay during the counting period. Convenient correction formulae are developed for computing the input rate from the count, as well as for the variance attached to such calculations, in the presence of a quasi-constant background.
The effect of alloying on the shape memory phenomenon in nitinol

The recovery temperature of nitinol can be increased to approximately 115/sup 0/C by slight departures from stoichiometry in the titanium rich direction. The extent of this increase is apparently limited by the very small solubility of excess Ti in NiTi. The recovery temperature can also be altered by substituting ternary alloying elements for small amounts of either Ni or Ti. Attempts to correlate these effects with elementary alloying parameters were unsuccessful.
Inhibition of heme peroxidases by melamine.

In 2008 melamine-contaminated infant formula and dairy products in China led to over 50,000 hospitalizations of children due to renal injuries. In North America during 2007 and in Asia during 2004, melamine-contaminated pet food products resulted in numerous pet deaths due to renal failure. Animal studies have confirmed the potent renal toxicity of melamine combined with cyanuric acid. We showed previously that the solubility of melamine cyanurate is low at physiologic pH and ionic strength, provoking us to speculate how toxic levels of these compounds could be transported through the circulation without crystallizing until passing into the renal filtrate. We hypothesized that melamine might be sequestered by heme proteins, which could interfere with heme enzyme activity. Four heme peroxidase enzymes were selected for study: horseradish peroxidase (HRP), lactoperoxidase (LPO), and cyclooxygenase-1 and -2 (COX-1 and -2). Melamine exhibited noncompetitive inhibition of HRP (𝐾𝑖9.5±0.7mM), and LPO showed a mixed model of inhibition (𝐾𝑖14.5±4.7mM). The inhibition of HRP and LPO was confirmed using a chemiluminescent peroxidase assay. Melamine also exhibited COX-1 inhibition, but inhibition of COX-2 was not detected. Thus, our results demonstrate that melamine inhibits the activity of three heme peroxidases.
Veno-occlusive disease of the liver.

Veno-occlusive disease (VOD) of the liver is the most common and serious regimen-related toxicity following stem cell transplantation (SCT). Injury to zone 3 structures of the liver acinus by high-dose chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy produces a clinical syndrome of jaundice, right upper quadrant pain or hepatomegaly, and fluid retention (1,2). There is considerable variability in the incidence of VOD, but most reports agree that 25–50% of patients who develop VOD die within 100 d of transplant. This chapter reviews strategies for prevention and treatment of this syndrome.
Autologous stem cell transplantation for small cell lung cancer.

Abstract Small cell lung cancer usually responds to radiation and chemotherapy, but cures are infrequent. Autotransplantation attempts to increase cures by intensifying the effects of chemotherapy. We studied 103 patients receiving high-dose chemotherapy with autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (SCT) for small cell lung cancer in 1989-1997 at 22 centers participating in the Autologous Blood and Marrow Transplant Registry. Median age at transplantation was 50 years (range, 30-74 years). Fifty-five percent of patients were men. Forty-seven percent of patients underwent transplantation in 1989-1993 and 53% in 1994-1997. Most patients received peripheral blood stem cells alone (39%) or with bone marrow (44%); 18% received bone marrow alone. The 2 most common preparative regimens were cyclophosphamide/carmustine/cisplatin (CBP) (60%) and ifosfamide/carboplatin/etoposide (ICE) (28%). Median time from diagnosis to transplantation was 6 months (range, 1-34 months). Most patients underwent transplantation after partial response (66%) or complete response (27%) to combination therapy. The 100-day mortality was 11% (95% confidence interval [CI], 6%-18%). Three-year probabilities of survival and progression-free survival (PFS) were 33% (95% CI, 24%-44%) and 26% (95% CI, 17%-36%), respectively, for all patients. Factors negatively associated with outcome in multivariate analysis were age greater than 50 years, extensive-stage disease at presentation, and preparative regimens other than CBP or ICE. Three-year survival and PFS rates were higher in patients with limited versus extensive disease, 43% versus 10% (P Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2002;8(5):273-80.
Can the Metabolic Syndrome be Defined in Children

The metabolic syndrome has garnered attention as a clustering of cardio-metabolic abnormalities linked to obesity and insulin resistance. It was organically defined as an attempt to identify obese adults at high risk for premature cardiovascular disease. The recognition and reporting of this clustering of risk factors has emerged in pediatric populations. These reports have sparked significant debate on the utility of such a definition among children or teens, especially for clinical use. The lack of agreement on cut-points or to even define the disease still persists despite it being reported in the pediatrics literature for over a decade. This report highlights recent papers describing additional associations with cardio-metabolic clustering.
Dissociation in the laboratory: a comparison of strategies

Several methods for inducing dissociation in the laboratory were examined in a sample of 78 undergraduate students. Participants scoring high or low on the Dissociative Experiences Scale participated in three dissociation challenge conditions: (a) dot-staring task, (b) administration of pulsed photic and audio stimulation and (c) stimulus deprivation. Participants recorded their dissociative experiences both before and after each of the three challenge conditions. Across conditions, high DES participants reported significantly more dissociative sensations than low DES participants, even after controlling for pre-challenge dissociation. Moreover, regardless of DES status, pulsed photo and audio stimulation produced the greatest level of dissociative symptoms. The findings suggest that the induction of dissociative symptoms in a nonclinical sample is easily accomplished in the laboratory and that those who report more dissociative symptoms in their day-to-day life exhibit more pronounced dissociative symptoms when undergoing dissociative challenge in the laboratory. Implications for the study and treatment of dissociative symptoms are discussed.
General equilibrium models and homotopy methods

Abstract Our purpose is to argue the inevitable and lasting role which homotopy methods will play in both theoretical and applied economic analysis. The essence of our position is that large equilibrium models are needed to anticipate adjustments in the economy following policy changes or shock events, and that homotopy methods are needed to analyze these equilibrium models. In addition to the computation of equilibria, homotopy methods will play an important role in the study of multiplicity of equilibria, tâtonnement, comparative statics, and market instability.
Long time dynamics close to a percolation threshold

Abstract The response function for random walks on a bond disordered lattice is calculated in the effective medium approximation (EMA). The basis for this approximation is reviewed and several exact limits preserved by this model are noted. For low density bond disorder the velocity autocorrelation function is calculated from the EMA and compared with exact expansions to order c2. More generally, the long time dynamics is shown to have a universal form over a wide range of densities. However, at densities close to the percolation threshold this form is modified. In particular, the amplitudes of the long time tails are found to be divergent at the threshold, indicating a crossover to a qualitatively different dynamics. This crossover phenomenon is investigated analytically and numerically for the EMA.
Sex pheromones of Ephestia cautella (Walker) (Lepidoptera pyralidae): Influence of mating on pheromone titer and release rate☆

Abstract Release rates and sex pheromone gland titers of pheromone components were determined for virgin and mated Ephestia cautella (Walker) females. During the 1st hr of a 10-hr scotophase, release rates of two previously identified sex pheromone components, ( Z , E )-9,12-tetradecadien-1-ol acetate and ( Z )-9-tetradecen-1-ol acetate, were 13.6 and 2.6 ng/calling female/hr, respectively. These quantities exceeded, by approximately 150%, the quantities extracted from sex pheromone glands at the end of the 1-hr test period. This finding suggests that pheromone release is accompanied by pheromone synthesis during this period. Calling by mated females was reduced about 90% relative to virgin insects. Also, release rates and tiers of both pheromone components were significantly (75–99%) lower for mated females than for virgin insects. An alcohol, ( Z , E )-9,12-tetradecadien-1-ol, was found in extracts that were obtained by vigorous extraction of entire abdominal tips of both virgin and mated females, but was not detected in female-produced volatiles nor in superficial rinses of excised abdominal tips. Alcohol titer decreased more than 90% after mating. Thus, neither virgin nor mated females released measurable quantities of this compound.
Loss of catalase increases malignant mouse keratinocyte cell growth through activation of the stress activated JNK pathway.

A cell line that produces mouse squamous cell carcinoma (6M90) was modified to develop a cell line with an introduced Tet-responsive catalase transgene (MTOC2). We have previously reported that the overexpressed catalase in the MTOC2 cells reverses the malignant phenotype in part by decreasing epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling. With this work we expanded the investigation into the differences between these two cell lines. We found that the decreased EGFR pathway activity of the MTOC2 cells is not because of reduced autocrine secretion of an epidermal growth factor (EGF) ligand but rather because of lower basal receptor activity. Phosphorylated levels of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) members JNK and p38 were both higher in the 6M90 cells with low catalase when compared with the MTOC2 cell line. Although treatment with an EGFR inhibitor, AG1478, blocked the increased activity of JNK in the 6M90 cells, a similar effect was not observed for p38. Basal levels of downstream c-jun transcription were also found to be higher in the 6M90 cells versus MTOC2 cells. Activated p38 was found to down-regulate the JNK MAPK pathway in the 6M90 cells. However, the 6M90 cells contain constitutively high levels of phosphorylated JNK, generating higher levels of phosphorylated c-jun and total c-jun than those in the MTOC2 cells. Inhibition of JNK activity in the 6M90 cells reduced AP-1 transcription and cell proliferation. The data confirm the inhibitory effects of catalase on tumor cell growth, specifically through a ligand-independent decrease in the stress activated JNK pathway. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
17-β-Estradiol Induces Heat Shock Proteins in Brain Arteries and Potentiates Ischemic Heat Shock Protein Induction in Glia and Neurons

Estradiol reduces brain injury from many diseases, including stroke and trauma. To investigate the molecular mechanisms of this protection, the effects of 17-β-estradiol on heat shock protein (HSP) expression were studied in normal male and female rats and in male gerbils after global ischemia. 17-β-Estradiol was given intraperitoneally (46 or 460 ng/kg, or 4.6 μg/kg) and Western blots performed for HSPs. 17-β-Estradiol increased hemeoxygenase-1, HSP25/27, and HSP70 in the brain of male and female rats. Six hours after the administration of 17-β-estradiol, hemeoxygenase-1 increased 3.9-fold (460 ng/kg) and 5.4-fold (4.6 μg/kg), HSP25/27 increased 2.1-fold (4.6 μg/kg), and Hsp70 increased 2.3-fold (460 ng/kg). Immunocytochemistry showed that hemeoxygenase-1, HSP25/27,and HSP70 induction was localized to cerebral arteries in male rats, possibly in vascular smooth muscle cells. 17-β-Estradiol was injected intraperitoneally 20 minutes before transient occlusion of both carotids in adult gerbils. Six hours aft...
Peripheral T-Cell Lymphoma with Aberrant Expression of CD19, CD20, and CD79a: Case Report and Literature Review

A case of lymphoma of T-cell derivation with aberrant expression of three B-cell lineage markers (CD19, CD20, and CD79a), which was diagnosed on a left axillary excision, is described. Immunohistochemical studies and flow cytometry analysis demonstrated neoplastic cells expressing CD3, CD19, CD20, and CD79a with absence of CD4, CD8, CD10, CD30, CD34, CD56, CD68, TDT, MPO, PAX-5, and surface immunoglobulin. Gene rearrangement studies performed on paraffin blocks demonstrated monoclonal T-cell receptor gamma chain rearrangement with no evidence of clonal heavy chain rearrangement. The neoplastic cells were negative for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) or Human Herpes Virus 8 (HHV-8). At the time of diagnosis, the PET scan demonstrated hypermetabolic neoplastic cells involving the left axilla, bilateral internal jugular areas, mediastinum, right hilum, bilateral lungs, and spleen. However, bone marrow biopsy performed for hemolytic anemia revealed normocellular bone marrow with trilineage maturation. The patient had no evidence of immunodeficiency or infection with EBV or HHV-8. This is the first reported case of a mature T-cell lymphoma with aberrant expression of three B-cell lineage markers. The current report also highlights the need for molecular gene rearrangement studies to determine the precise lineage of ambiguous neoplastic clones.
The impact of colonization on access to improved water and sanitation facilities in African cities

Abstract Much work on the influence of colonialism on development in Africa has focused on macro-level indicators of development such as the GNP, GDP and GNI/cap. The study reported here focuses on micro-level indicators, namely access to improved water and sanitation facilities. The impact of colonial tenure on access to improved water and sanitation facilities in African cities is explored. It is revealed that such access is a function of the duration of the colonial era. Thus, on average, access to improved water and sanitation facilities is greater in cities within countries that experienced longer periods of colonization than those in which the colonial era was brief. Therefore, despite its reprehensibility, colonialism holds important lessons for ongoing efforts to improve access to water and sanitation in African cities.
Surveillance programmes for managing risks from naturally occurring toxicants

Aflatoxins are potent carcinogenic, mutagenic and teratogenic metabolites produced by moulds that grow on food and feed. Their toxicity has caused severe health and economic problems worldwide. Other mycotoxins which have been associated with human health risks include ergot alkaloids, citreoviridin, trichothecenes, ochratoxins, citrinin, tremorgenic mycotoxins and the fumonisins. Many phycotoxins have also been associated with human illnesses; these phycotoxins include paralytic shellfish poisons, diarrhoeic shellfish poisons, ciguatera‐related toxins, neurotoxic shellfish poisons, tetrodotoxin and, the more recently discovered, domoic acid which is associated with amnesic shellfish poisoning. Human exposure to these naturally occurring toxins can be from direct consumption of contaminated commodities or from foods derived from animals previously exposed to these toxins in their feed. Food safety monitoring programmes for selected toxins have been established for raw and finished products susceptible to ...
The effects of chronic ethanol consumption on neurotrophins and their receptors in the rat hippocampus and basal forebrain.

Abstract Damage to the basal forebrain frequently results in deficits in learning and memory. Mnenonic dysfunction also occurs following prolonged ethanol consumption in humans and in animal models of chronic ethanol intake, accompanied by specific abnormalities in synaptic transmission between the basal forebrain and hippocampus. The integrity of at least some of the reciprocal neuronal connections between these brain regions is influenced by target-derived neurotrophic factors. We used a semiquantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction technique to measure the messenger RNA for neurotrophins BDNF and NGF, and for their receptors trkB, trkA, and the low affinity receptor, p75NTR in the hippocampus and basal forebrain of rats after 28 weeks of alcohol consumption without malnutrition. This chronic ethanol treatment (CET) resulted in a marked and selective reduction in basal forebrain trkA mRNA. Western blotting revealed a similar reduction of basal forebrain trkA protein. CET effects on basal forebrain trkA may reflect impaired NGF signaling that could compromise septohippocampal synaptic connections, cholinergic differentiation, and emergent functional abilities dependent on these properties.
PREVAIL - Evolution and properties of large area reduction projection electron optics

The large area reduction projection optics with beam scanning of the PREVAIL proof-of-concept system is described as the result of an evolution of a variable axis lens doublet system from one with a straight to one with a curvilinear axis, driven by the need to contain image blur caused by Coulomb interactions, and to maintain symmetry of the resulting optics.
The kinetics and feedback inhibition of cytidine 5′-triphosphate synthetase in wild-type and mutant Chinese hamster cells

The kinetics and cytidine 5′-triphosphate (CTP) feedback inhibition of CTP synthetase in wild-type and four mutants of Chinese hamster V79 cells have been studied. The enzymes of the wild type and three of the four mutants exhibited positive cooperativity with the substrate uridine 5′-triphosphate (UTP). Three of the mutants had Km app and S50 valuves distinctly greater than those of the wild type, while the fourth mutant had values similar to those of the wild type. all four mutants exhibited resistance to CTP feedback inhibition, while the wild type was sensitive to such inhibition. It is postulated that a single mutational event in each mutant had caused a concomitant change of the enzyme in its binding both to the substrate UTP and to the end-product CTP.
Effect of glutathione depletion on tissue and plasma prostacyclin and thromboxane in rats.

Abstract Experiments were designed to determine the effects of glutathione (GSH) depletion with l -buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) or diethyl maleate (DEM) on tissue and plasma prostacyclin (6-ketoPGF1α) and thromboxane (TxB2) levels in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Despite depleting hepatic GSH to as much as 34% of control, BSO at various levels (0.4, 0.8 and 1.2 g/kg body wt) had no effect on hepatic, renal, pulmonary or cardiac tissue levels of 6-ketoPGF1α and TxB2 or circulating levels of 6-ketoPGF1α in portal or arterial plasma. When rats were pretreated with 3-methylcholanthrene (3-MC) to induce cytochrome P450, BSO (0.8 g/kg body wt) also had no effect on tissue or plasma prostanoid levels with the exception of a slight, but significant, increase in hepatic 6-ketoPGF1α in non-induced rats. In contrast, depletions of hepatic, renal and pulmonary tissue GSH by DEM (1 mL/kg body wt) to 12, 50 and 30% of control, respectively, were associated with elevations of 6-ketoPGF1α in these tissues and in plasma obtained by right ventricular heart puncture. Pretreatment of rats with 3-MC had no significant effect on tissue GSH or prostanoid levels in controls or DEM-treated rats but plasma levels of 6-ketoPGF1α were lower in comparison to non-induced rats. DEM with or without 3-MC pretreatment was associated with increased TxB2 in renal tissue, whereas DEM elevated TxB2 only in pulmonary tissue from non-induced rats. It appears that factors besides GSH depletion may be required to raise plasma and/or tissue 6-ketoPGF1α levels in vivo.