cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
High-Level Vancomycin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Isolates Associated with a Polymicrobial Biofilm

Glycopeptides such as vancomycin are the treatment of choice for infections due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. This study describes the identification of high-level vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA) isolates in a polymicrobial biofilm within an indwelling nephrostomy tube in a patient in New York. S. aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium, Micrococcus species, Morganella morganii, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were isolated from the biofilm. For VRSA isolates, vancomycin MICs ranged from 32 to >128 microg/ml. VRSA isolates were also resistant to aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, macrolides, penicillin, and tetracycline but remained susceptible to chloramphenicol, linezolid, rifampin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. The vanA gene was localized to a plasmid of approximately 100 kb in VRSA and E. faecium isolates from the biofilm. Plasmid analysis revealed that the VRSA isolate acquired the 100-kb E. faecium plasmid, which was then maintained without integration into the MRSA plasmid. The tetracycline resistance genes tet(U) and tet(S), not previously detected in S. aureus isolates, were identified in the VRSA isolates. Additional resistance elements in the VRSA isolate included a multiresistance gene cluster, ermB-aadE-sat4-aphA-3, msrA (macrolide efflux), and the bifunctional aminoglycoside resistance gene aac(6')-aph(2")-Ia. Multiple combinations of resistance genes among the various isolates of staphylococci and enterococci, including vanA, tet(S), and tet(U), illustrate the dynamic nature of gene acquisition and loss within and between bacterial species throughout the course of infection. The potential for interspecies transfer of antimicrobial resistance genes, including resistance to vancomycin, may be enhanced by the microenvironment of a biofilm.
Social disruption induces lung inflammation.

Social disruption (SDR) is a well-characterized mouse stressor that causes changes in immune cell reactivity in response to inflammatory stimuli. In this study, we found that SDR in the absence of an immune challenge induced pulmonary inflammation and increased pulmonary myeloperoxidase activity. The percentage of neutrophils within the lungs increased 2-fold after social disruption. Monocyte accumulation in the lungs was also significantly increased. In addition, SDR increased the percentage of neutrophils that expressed CD11b, indicating that more neutrophils were in an activated state. In the lungs, we observed an increased level of the inflammatory cytokine, IL-1β, as well as higher levels of KC/CXCL1, MIP-2/CXCL2, and MCP-1/CCL2, which are chemokines responsible for neutrophil and monocyte recruitment. Furthermore, social disruption led to increased lung expression of the adhesion molecules P-selectin, E-selectin, and ICAM-1, which localize and recruit immune cells. These data support previous findings of an inflammatory environment induced by SDR. We demonstrate that this effect also occurs in the pulmonary milieu and in the absence of an inflammatory stimulus.
A Comparative Performance Study for Compute Node Sharing

We introduce a methodology for the study of the application-level performance of time-sharing parallel jobs on a set of compute nodes in high performance clusters and report our findings. We assume that parallel jobs arriving at a cluster need to share a set of nodes with the jobs of other users, in that they must compete for processor time in a time-sharing manner and other limited resources such as memory and I/O in a space-sharing manner. Under the assumption, we developed a methodology to simulate job arrivals to a set of compute nodes, and gather and process performance data to calculate the percentage slowdown of parallel jobs. Our goal through this study is to identify a better combination of jobs that minimize performance degradations due to resource sharing and contention. Through our experiments, we found a couple of interesting behaviors for overlapped parallel jobs, which may be used to suggest alternative job allocation schemes aiming to reduce slowdowns that will inevitably result due to resource sharing on a high performance computing cluster. We suggest three job allocation strategies based on our empirical results and propose further studies of the results using a supercomputing facility at the San Diego Supercomputing Center.
On robustness and localization accuracy of optical flow computation for underwater color images

Color-image optical flow processing may offer little merit in terrestrial imagery, mainly due to high correlation among the color channels. However, spectral-dependent environmental factors reduce the degree of correlation in underwater imagery, enriching visual motion cues. Additionally, use of multiple motion constraints can increase estimation robustness and noise immunity, which is significant for overcoming higher underwater image noise from various sources. Despite high variability in the conditions of various bodies of water, a simplified image model allows us to draw general conclusions on the computation of visual motion from color channels, based on average common medium characteristics. In particular, the model offers insight into: (1) information encoded in various color channels; (2) advantages in the use of a certain color representation over others; (3) consistency between conclusions from the theoretical study and from experiments with data sets recoded in various types of ocean waters and locations. The study concludes that optical flow computation based on the HSV representation typically provides more improved localization and motion estimation precision relative to other color presentations. Results of various experiments with underwater data are given to assess the accuracy.
Single unit responses in the neospinothalamic system of the cat.

Abstract Extracellular microelectrode recordings of the cells in the VPL and their responses to stimulation of the sciatic nerve in the awake cat have revealed four types of cellular responses. The interaction of these cells is evident on comparison of periods of inhibition of one cell in relation to periods of activiation of other cells, indicating that the VPL does not act as a simple relay nucleus with transmission to the cortex, but has significant data processing capabilities in addition to its relay function.
The effects of heterogeneity on Simon Phase II clinical trial design operating characteristics

Abstract: The homogeneity assumption of a Simon Phase II clinical trial is commonly violated due to excess variation in the response known as response heterogeneity. Using a general framework to model heterogeneity, we investigate its effects on the operating characteristics of the Simon trial design using the standard practice of averaging responses. We show that, under heterogeneity and averaging, the Simon designs have higher than expected errors which may result in false negative and false positive Phase II outcomes. Keywords: Simon Trial, Phase II, heterogeneity Introduction Simon Phase II designs are single arm trial designs used to estimate efficacy for an experimental treatment. The primary assumption for this type of trial is the assumption of response homogeneity. Response homogeneity is defined as the variance of the response being bounded by the variance of a binomial distribution given a response rate, π. 1 In practice, this assumption may be violated with the response variation greater than expected. An explanation for the increase in response variation or response heterogeneity is the existence of unique subgroups in the population.
Health-related issues in individuals with agenesis of the corpus callosum

Objectives To explore and compare the prevalence and expression of specific health-related variables in a large survey sample of persons with agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC) and their siblings. Methods Caregiver surveys of individuals with ACC (n = 189) and their siblings (n = 189) provided data regarding diagnoses, physical features, neurological and sensory information, feeding, elimination and sleep concerns, and some behavioural features. Results Compared with their siblings, individuals with ACC had more concurrent conditions and were more likely to have altered pain perception and sensitivity to touch. In addition, individuals with ACC had more sensory deficits and abnormalities as well as altered patterns of feeding/eating, elimination and sleep. Conclusions These data raise important questions for future research and suggest the need for increased vigilance by caregivers and health-care professionals of individuals with callosal disorders. Early detection and intervention may help prevent or ameliorate health problems in this population.
The effect of homologous amino acid replacement on the conformation of oligopeptides. II. Synthesis of co-oligopeptides containing methionine and glycine

The synthess of 18 co-oligopeptides of L-methionine and glycine is reported. A series of oligomers, Boc-Gly-Metn-OMe (n = 1–6), and six hexamers-containing five methionyl and one glycyl residue were synthesized using the mixed anhydride procedure. Polarimetric studies give evidence that oligomers in the Boc-Gly-Metn-Ome series are essentially disordered in hexafluoroacetone sesquihydrate but begin forming secondry structures at n > 4 in trifluorethanol. Difference in the molar rotation values found for the six hexamers in hexafluoroacetone sesquihydrate may indicate that these compounds, while primirily disordered, are present in slightly different conformations.
Strategies for integrating Medicare and Medicaid: design features and incentives.

In a typical third-party payer situation--representative of most U.S. health care delivery--the payer is likely to have interests that are at odds with the patient and provider. The separation and overlap between Medicare and Medicaid for individuals eligible for both programs introduces an additional level of complexity: multiple masters over plans, providers, and patients. This creates opportunities for shifting costs and administrative burdens between states and the federal government, providers and governments, and patients and everyone else. Program designers who wish to minimize unwanted consequences must find ways to structure their programs to produce financial incentives that encourage the pursuit of societal goals, including appropriately shared intergovernmental responsibilities and appropriate plan, provider, and patient behavior. Here the authors review nine federal and state initiatives that use varying strategies to integrate Medicare and Medicaid services for vulnerable populations. For each initiative, the authors examine and critique program design features in three areas: (1) eligibility determination, (2) finance and administration, and (3) service delivery. They find a few strengths and many weaknesses in design. Future efforts would be well served by carefully considering the incentive structures designed into these initiatives and working to improve them in the next generation of Medicare-Medicaid integration efforts.
Measuring the Color of Maxillofacial Prosthetic Material

Color information from different color-measuring systems varies during color matching in maxillofacial prosthetics. We studied the hypothesis that a non-contact measuring system and 4 contact color-measuring instruments perform comparably in accuracy and precision on measurements of pigmented maxillofacial elastomer specimens having human skin colors. Measurement comparisons in accuracy on opaque standard color patches were made in Phase I. In Phase II, the system with the best accuracy was used as the reference instrument, and comparisons in accuracy and precision on elastomer specimens were made. The CIEDE2000 color difference formula was used. Repeated-measures ANOVA with Tukey testing and linear regression analysis for CIELAB and color differences among the instruments were performed. The contact measuring systems perform differently in accuracy, possibly due to edge loss and other factors, but performed comparably in precision with the non-contact measuring instrument. This non-contact system is recommended for color measurement of maxillofacial prosthetic materials.
TAT-mediated delivery of a DNA repair enzyme to skin cells rapidly initiates repair of UV-induced DNA damage

UV light causes DNA damage in skin cells, leading to more than one million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer diagnosed annually in the United States. Although human cells possess a mechanism (nucleotide excision repair) to repair UV-induced DNA damage, mutagenesis still occurs when DNA is replicated before repair of these photoproducts. Although human cells have all the enzymes necessary to complete an alternate repair pathway, base excision repair (BER), they lack a DNA glycosylase that can initiate BER of dipyrimidine photoproducts. Certain prokaryotes and viruses produce pyrimidine dimer-specific DNA glycosylases (pdgs) that initiate BER of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs), the predominant UV-induced lesions. Such a pdg was identified in the Chlorella virus PBCV-1 and termed Cv-pdg. The Cv-pdg protein was engineered to contain a nuclear localization sequence (NLS) and a membrane permeabilization peptide (transcriptional transactivator, TAT). Here, we demonstrate that the Cv-pdg-NLS-TAT protein was delivered to repair-proficient keratinocytes and fibroblasts, and to a human skin model, where it rapidly initiated removal of CPDs. These data suggest a potential strategy for prevention of human skin cancer.
Profile of messenger RNA decay in the emory mouse lens in cataractogenesis and in aging

The Emory mouse is presumed to be a model for studies on human senile cataracts. The cataract develops in 5–8 months after birth, and it does not appear to have an osmotic component. To date, no specific metabolic lesion has been uncovered as a probable cause to this cataract. Several studies have shown that the Emory mouse undergoes accelerated aging changes, possibly leading to development of senile-type cataracts. In this study we quantitated changes that might occur in the population of various mRNAs for proteins presumed to be essential for lens transparency, and for proteins that may contribute to development of cataracts. By Northern blot hybridization analysis we quantitated the mRNAs for: αA-crystallin, βB1-crystallin, γ-crystallin, the main lens intrinsic membrane protein, MP26, and aldose reductase; all in lenses of Emory mouse early cataract strain (EMEC), and of an age-matched cataract resistant strain (CR). These measurements were done in increments of 1 month over a 6-month period, then at both 9 and 12 months. The results show that all of these mRNAs decrease with age and with development of cataracts; although in some cases the initial concentrations at 1 month appear to be lower in the EMEC than in the CR strain. The most dramatic change occurred with the MP26 mRNA. In the CR strain, MP26 mRNA maintained its high concentration for a period of about 6 months before it began its decline to the 12 month level (about 25% of the 1 month level). In the EMEC strain, MP26 mRNA showed an immediate drop beginning within the second month after birth, approaching a minimal level at 3–4 months, a level that was equivalent to that of the 12 month CR strain. It is hypothesized that the early decline in the MP26 mRNA observed in the EMEC strain may be indicative of the cataractogenic state of the Emory mouse lens.
Effects of ganglionic and beta-adrenergic blockade on cardiovascular responses to the bisenoic prostaglandins and their precursor arachidonic acid.

SummaryArachidonic acid (AA) 300 μg/kg, and PGE2, 5 μg/kg consistently produced a decrease in systemic arterial pressure in anesthetized dogs. PGF2α, 5 μg/kg, produced a pressor response. All three compounds increased myocardial contractile force, but the magnitude of the change following AA was less prominent. After ganglionic blockade, the depressor response to AA and PGE2 persisted and the pressor response to PGF2α was augmented. Myocardial contractile force did not increase following AA in ganglion-blocked animals indicating that the cardiac responses observed before hexamethonium were mediated by the baroreceptor reflexes. A much larger dose of AA (900 μg/kg) resulted in a small positive inotropic effect on the heart. This possibly represents a direct cardiac effect of AA, or may be indicative of increased biosynthesis of an intermediate endoperoxide, or PGE2 and PGF2α. Both PGE2 and PGF2α have a direct positive inotropic effect on the heart. The persistent cardiac effects of PGE2 and PGF2 after β-ad...
STUDENTS' PERCEPTIONS OF PARENTAL PRACTICES AND EVALUATIONS OF SELF, MOTHER, AND FATHER

Summary.-The present study examined perceptions of parental discipline and associated evaluations of self, i.e., self-concept, mother, and father by 55 undergraduate college students attending a large midwestern university. Significantly more positive evaluations of self and father, but not mother, were associated with restrictive than with p-rmissive parenting practices. The implications in regard to acceptance of parental authority are discussed. Becker's (2) model of parental attitudes and behaviors proposes that restrictive discipline fosters inhibited behaviors in children, e.g., dependency, while permissive discipline encourages uninhibited behaviors, e.g., independence. Since children reared in home environments in which a restrictive atmosphere is present tend to be more reliant upon parents' arbitrary demands they may, therefore, exhibit obedience to ensure their needs are met (4). Permissive parents, on the other hand, who provide emotional support in a warm manner seem to allow their children to exhibit greater autonomy in thought and action (6). The present scudy sought to examine possible differences in self-evaluations, i.e., self-concepts, and evaluations of mothers and fathers as a function of perceived restrictiveness/permissiveness in the home. A total of 55 undergraduate students enrolled in educational psychology courses at a large midwestern university voluntarily participated in the present study. As a measure of self and parental evaluations each student filled out three copies of the Personal Attribute Inventory (9). At the top of each inventory was noted either "yourself," "mother," or "father." Each respondent was asked to select the 30 words on mch inventory that were most descriptive of the target person in question. One's score was the number of negative words checked (range 0 to 30) on each sheet. The order of these forms was counterbalanced. Following administration, students were presented the following two grids with accompanying ins:ructions:
The expanded endonasal approach for an endoscopic transnasal clipping and aneurysmorrhaphy of a large vertebral artery aneurysm: technical case report.

OBJECTIVE: Aneurysms of the vertebral artery are rare, comprising less than 5% of all aneurysms. They can present with subarachnoid hemorrhage, medullary compression, and cranial neuropathies. In consideration of their surrounding regional anatomy, they present a formidable surgical challenge to the neurosurgeon using traditional techniques. Recent advances in endoscopic transnasal surgery have provided an additional approach for the treatment of these difficult lesions. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: We present a case of a large vertebral artery aneurysm causing mass effect on the medulla. Initial treatment consisted of endovascular trapping of the aneurysm; however, because of concerns that the remaining aneurysm and intraluminal thrombus was causing mass effect and continued brainstem compression, a decompressive procedure was required. INTERVENTION: After the endovascular trapping, the patient underwent a completely endoscopic transnasal surgical clipping and aneurysmorrhaphy. After exposure of the aneurysm, distal and proximal clips were applied transnasal and the aneurysmorrhaphy completed using suction and ultrasonic aspiration. CONCLUSION: In consideration of their surrounding regional anatomy, aneurysms of the vertebral artery present a formidable surgical challenge to the neurosurgeon. Although endovascular techniques have proven to be extremely valuable for the treatment of these lesions, they are limited when patients that have significant mass effect with brainstem compression or cranial neuropathy. Advances in endoscopic transnasal surgery have provided an additional approach for the treatment of these difficult lesions. This case report represents, to our knowledge, the first literature report of a transnasal endoscopic aneurysm clipping and thrombectomy.
Polyhedral Characterization of Discrete Dynamic Programming

Many interesting combinatorial problems can be optimized efficiently using recursive computations often termed discrete dynamic programming. In this paper, we develop a paradigm for a general class of such optimizations that yields a polyhedral description for each model in the class. The elementary concept of dynamic programs as shortest path problems in acyclic graphs is generalized to one seeking a least cost solution in a directed hypergraph. Sufficient conditions are then provided for binary integrality of the associated hyperflow problem. Given a polynomially solvable dynamic program, the result is a linear program, in polynomially many variables and constraints, having the solution vectors of the dynamic program as its extreme-point optima. That is, the linear program provides a succinct characterization of the solutions to the underlying optimization problem expressed through an appropriate change of variables. We also discuss projecting this formulation to recover constraints on the original variables and illustrate how some important dynamic programming solvable models fit easily into our paradigm. A classic multiechelon lot sizing problem in production and a host of optimization problems on recursively defined classes of graphs are included.
Herpes Simplex Virus Oncolytic Therapy for Pediatric Malignancies

Despite improving survival rates for children with cancer, a subset of patients exist with disease resistant to traditional therapies such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. These patients require newer, targeted treatments used alone or in combination with more traditional approaches. Oncolytic herpes simplex virus (HSV) is one of these newer therapies that offer promise for several difficult to treat pediatric malignancies. The potential benefit of HSV therapy in pediatric solid tumors including brain tumors, neuroblastomas, and sarcomas is reviewed along with the many challenges that need to be addressed prior to moving oncolytic HSV therapy from the laboratory to the beside in the pediatric population.
Complex regulation and function of activation-induced cytidine deaminase

Activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) instigates mutations and DNA breaks in Ig genes that undergo somatic hypermutation and class switch recombination during B cell activation in response to immunization and infection. This review discusses how AID expression and activity are regulated, including recent discoveries of AID-interacting proteins that might recruit AID to Ig genes, and allow it to target both DNA strands. Also discussed is the accumulating evidence that AID binds to, mutates, and creates breaks at numerous non-Ig sites in the genome, which initiates cell transformation and malignancies.
Picosecond characteristics of silicon-on-insulator metal-semiconductor-metal photodiodes

A subpicosecond electro-optic sampling system was used to measure the picosecond characteristics of silicon-based, metal- semiconductor-metal photodiodes made on both bulk-silicon and silicon-on-sapphire (SOS) substrates with submicrometer finger spacings and widths. The temporal response of bulk-silicon diodes was strongly dependent on the wavelength of excitation light because of the effect of different penetration depths. On the other hand, for the SOS diodes, the device speed is nearly independent of wavelength since the thickness of the silicon layer limits the depth of photogenerated carriers. The external quantum efficiency of SOS diodes was measured at several selected wavelengths and shown to be dominated by the photon absorption coefficient.
The value of a floor: valuing floor level in high‐rise condominiums in San Diego

Purpose – This paper aims to analyze the effect of floor level on condominium prices in San Diego, California. The authors determine whether “higher‐floor premiums” exist in the condominium market for a large California city. Further, they investigate how the floor premium varies throughout a building, particularly whether it is quadratic and whether there is a “penthouse premium” for top‐floor units.Design/methodology/approach – The paper utilizes a data set of 2,395 condominium sales occurring in San Diego between 2006 and the second quarter of 2011. Using hedonic pricing analysis, the authors model the housing price as a function of condominium, building and neighborhood characteristics.Findings – The results suggest that there is a higher‐floor premium for condominiums in San Diego. Specifically, an increase in the floor level is associated with about a 2.2 percent increase in sale price. The higher‐floor premium appears to be quadratic in price, suggesting that price increases at a decreasing rate ab...
The crystal and molecular structure of phenothiazine‐10‐propionic acid

The crystal structure of phenothiazine-10-propionic acid, C12H8SNC2H4COOH, was determined from three-dimensional X-ray diffraction data collected with a manual diffractomer using MoKα (λ 0.71069 A) radiation. The space group is P21/c with a = 7.888 (2)A, b = 8.703 (2)A, c = 19.700 (8)A, β = 101.42 (1)°, Z = 4, Dmeas = 1.35(2) g. cm−3 and Dcalc = 1.36 g. cm−3 at 23°. The structure was determined by the direct method and refined with 500 observed reflections by full-matrix least squares to an R of 0.072. The molecule is folded along the S-N axis and the dihedral angle is 136.5°. The C-S-C angle is 98.5(7)° and the average C-S bond is 1.77(2)A. The shortening of the C-S bond, the small value of the C-S-C angle and the folding of the molecule are typical of the phenothiazine class of compounds and are assumed to be due to sulfur d orbital participation in ring bonding.
Operant responding in rats with dietary obesity: A systematic replication

Abstract Two groups of female rats were first trained to bar press for food reward available on fixed ratio (FR) schedules ranging from 1–64. Then one group was fed a variety of palatable supermarket foods for 45 days while the controls were fed laboratory chow. Six of the 8 rats fed supermarket foods became moderately obese, gaining 3 times as much weight as controls. In tests conducted after the differential feeding treatment these moderately obese rats earned fewer reinforcements than controls on each of the FR schedules (1–64). Thus pretraining, which attenuates the deficit in operant performance for food displayed by dynamic stage rats with VMH lesions did not eliminate the deficit in food-motivated performance by rats that became obese by eating palatable foods.
ULTRASOUND IMAGING OF THE COELOMIC STRUCTURES IN THE BOA CONSTRICTOR (BOA CONSTRICTOR)

Transverse ultrasound images from three live boa constrictors (Boa constrictor) were compared to the corresponding gross sections of a euthanized boa constrictor. The snakes were anesthetized, placed into dorsal recumbency, and imaged through the ventral scutes. Ultrasound images were produced with a real time, B-mode scanner and a linear 7.5-MHz transducer. The heart, liver, stomach, gall bladder, pancreas, kidneys, and fat body were the coelomic structures most consistently recognized ultrasonographically. Results of this study indicate that ultrasound is a useful imaging technique in snakes.
Bioethics made too simple

Genetic Engineering: Dreams and Nightmares by Enzo Russo and David Cove. W.H. Freeman, New York, 1995, pp. 243, $22.95, (hbk); DNA & Destiny: Nature & Nurture in Human Behavior by R. Grant Steen. Plenum Publishing, New York and London, 1996, pp. 295, $28.95, (hbk); Double-Edged Sword: The Promises and Risks of the Genetic Revolution by Karl A. Drlica. Addison Wesley Publishing Company, New York, 1994, pp.241, $20.00, (hbk).
Permethrin exposure from fabric-treated military uniforms under different wear-time scenarios

The objective of the project was to ascertain whether urinary biomarkers of permethrin exposure are detected after wearing post-tailored, fabric-treated military uniforms under two different wear-time exposure scenarios. Study A occurred over 3.5 days and involved six participants wearing treated uniforms continuously for 30–32 h. Urine collection occurred at scheduled time points before, during, and after wearing the uniform. Study B, conducted over 19 days, included 11 participants wearing treated uniforms for 3 consecutive days, 8 h each day (with urine collection before, during, and after wear). Urinary biomarkers of permethrin (3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3PBA), cis- 2,2-(dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (cDCCA), trans- 2,2-(dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (tDCCA)) were detected during and after wear. Biomarker detection generally occurred over the 10- to 12-h period after putting on the uniform and subsided 24 h following uniform removal (in both Study A and B scenarios). Those wearing permethrin-treated uniforms under the longer wear-time scenario (Study A) excreted significantly higher cumulative mean levels compared with those in Study B (3.29 times higher for 3PBA and 2.23 times higher for the sum of c/tDCCA (P≤0.001)). Findings suggest that wearing permethrin-treated clothing does increase absorbed, internal dose levels of permethrin above population levels and is significantly related to wear-time duration.
Lymphatic Mapping: A Technique Providing Accurate Staging for Breast Cancer.

Lymphatic mapping and selective lymphade-nectomy is an accurate method for staging breast cancer patients, providing a conservative approach to the surgical management and more information from a detailed examination. The histology of the SLN is reflective of the remaining axillary lymph nodes, particularly when the SLN is negative. The procedure can be accomplished as an outpatient procedure when there is negative nodal staging. Similar to breast preservation as a viable alternative to mastectomy in the management of breast cancer patients, the ability to decrease morbidity without compromising patient care is the greatest advantage.
Effects of resveratrol and SIRT1 on PGC-1α activity and mitochondrial biogenesis: a reevaluation.

It has been reported that feeding mice resveratrol activates AMPK and SIRT1 in skeletal muscle leading to deacetylation and activation of PGC-1α, increased mitochondrial biogenesis, and improved running endurance. This study was done to further evaluate the effects of resveratrol, SIRT1, and PGC-1α deacetylation on mitochondrial biogenesis in muscle. Feeding rats or mice a diet containing 4 g resveratrol/kg diet had no effect on mitochondrial protein levels in muscle. High concentrations of resveratrol lowered ATP concentration and activated AMPK in C2C12 myotubes, resulting in an increase in mitochondrial proteins. Knockdown of SIRT1, or suppression of SIRT1 activity with a dominant-negative (DN) SIRT1 construct, increased PGC-1α acetylation, PGC-1α coactivator activity, and mitochondrial proteins in C2C12 cells. Expression of a DN SIRT1 in rat triceps muscle also induced an increase in mitochondrial proteins. Overexpression of SIRT1 decreased PGC-1α acetylation, PGC-1α coactivator activity, and mitochondrial proteins in C2C12 myotubes. Overexpression of SIRT1 also resulted in a decrease in mitochondrial proteins in rat triceps muscle. We conclude that, contrary to some previous reports, the mechanism by which SIRT1 regulates mitochondrial biogenesis is by inhibiting PGC-1α coactivator activity, resulting in a decrease in mitochondria. We also conclude that feeding rodents resveratrol has no effect on mitochondrial biogenesis in muscle.
Variations among experienced surgeons in cancer control after open radical prostatectomy

Purpose: Complications and functional outcomes after prostate surgery vary among surgeons to a greater extent than may be accounted for by chance. This excessive variation is known as heterogeneity. We explored whether there is also heterogeneity among high volume surgeons with respect to cancer control after surgery.Materials and Methods: The study cohort consisted of 7,725 patients with clinically localized prostate cancer treated with open radical prostatectomy at 4 major American academic medical centers from 1987 to 2003 by 1 of 54 surgeons. We defined biochemical recurrence as serum prostate specific antigen 0.4 ng/ml or greater followed by a higher level. Multivariate random effects models were used to evaluate prostate cancer recurrence heterogeneity among surgeons after adjusting for case mix (prostate specific antigen, pathological stage and grade), surgery year and surgeon experience.Results: We found statistically significant heterogeneity in the prostate cancer recurrence rate independent of ...
The effect of pressure on the constant-pressure heat capacity of trifluorochloromethane (CClF3)

The constant-pressure heat capacity ratio, CpHP/Cp1atm (where CpHP is the heat capacity at high pressure and Cp1atm is the heat capacity at 1 atm), was measured for CClF3 along the isotherms 299.16, 313.11 and 328.15 K at pressures between 13 and 67 bar. Maxima were observed in the heat capacity ratios on the supercritical isotherms of 313.11 and 328.15 K of 6.984 at 48.50 bar and 3.414 at 61.23 bar, respectively. Heat capacity ratios were measured along the 299.16 K isotherm on both the vapor and liquid sides of the discontinuity at the corresponding vapor pressure (36.38 bar). The Soave-Redlich-Kwong equation of state gave a reasonable prediction of the heat capacity ratios, except those near the maxima; nevertheless the (pressure) locations of the maxima were well predicted.
Surface Phenomena and Aesthetic Experience

Abstract Appreciation for nature or landscape is a principal reason for becoming a geographer. The aesthetic impulse and experience are not, however, confined to any class of individuals. They are a universal human trait, and we find evidence of it in all areas of human life. Satisfaction with life consists largely of taking pleasure in form and expressiveness—in sensory impressions, modified by the mind, at all scales from the smile of a child to the built environment and political theater. So much of life occurs at the surface that, as students of the human scene, we are obliged to pay far more attention to its character (subtlety, variety, and density) than we have done. The scholar's neglect and suspicion of surface phenomena is a consequence of a dichotomy in Western thought between surface and depth, sensory appreciation and intellectual understanding, with bias against the first of the two terms. Variant meanings of these terms and their impact on our attitude toward surface phenomena, aesthetic ex...
Significance of microhardness of porous inorganic materials

Abstract Microhardness was measured of porous and nonporous samples of halite and selenite and it has been shown that the relationship between microhardness and porosity may be expressed by the emperical relation H = H o e −bp . The significance of the microhardness measurements as applied to porous materials is discussed from the standpoint of the disturbed zone of crystals or micro-units, including the problem of “work hardening” when powdered samples are compacted. The effect of morphology on microhardness is also discussed with regard to a series of gypsum samples. Reference is made to the effect of humidity on microhardness of porous glass and the conclusion drawn that the micromechanics of failure in microhardness are similar to flexure strength.
Atrophic nonunion can be predicted with dual energy x‐ray absorptiometry in a canine ostectomy model

This study demonstrated that dual energy x-ray absorptiometry can be used to distinguish between normal union and atrophic nonunion, with high sensitivity and high negative predictive value, by 8 weeks after surgery in a canine model. Eighteen adult mixed-breed dogs were divided into two equal groups: normal union and atrophic nonunion. In the normal union group, a 5 mm mid-diaphyseal transverse ostectomy was performed in the right tibia, and the bone was stabilized with a unilateral external fixator. In the atrophic nonunion group, a 5 mm mid-diaphyseal ostectomy was performed; the distal 1.5 cm of the bone ends, including the periosteum, were frozen twice to -20 degrees C using liquid nitrogen and thawed slowly twice; and the bone was stabilized with a unilateral external fixator. The members of the research team were blinded to the group assignments until after all dogs were killed and all data were acquired. Radiography and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry of both tibiae were performed at weeks 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16 after surgery. All dogs were killed at 16 weeks, and the torsional stiffness and maximum torque of both tibiae of five dogs in each group were determined. Mechanically, the tibiae in the normal union group had significantly higher maximum torque (43-fold higher) and torsional stiffness (86-fold higher) than the tibiae in the atrophic nonunion group. The sensitivity and negative predictive value of dual energy x-ray absorptiometry for predicting nonunion were 100% by 8 weeks after surgery. The specificity and positive predictive value reached 78 and 82%, respectively, by 16 weeks. Radiographic scores were significantly higher for the union group than for the nonunion group beginning at 2 weeks after surgery. The earliest time after surgery that radiography classified an ostectomy as a nonunion was significantly later (4.6 +/- 1.2 weeks) than for dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (2.6 +/- 1.4 weeks). Before these results can be extrapolated to human applications, further animal studies must be performed to evaluate clinically or experimentally induced fractures, or both, rather than the well defined ostectomies that were performed in this study.
Emotion encoding and interpretation in computer-mediated communication: Reasons for use

As computer-mediated communication (CMC) is increasingly used to build and maintain relationships, the examination of channel choice for the development of these social ties becomes important to study. Using free response data from Riordan and Kreuz (submitted for publication), we examine reasons for choosing among face-to-face, asynchronous email, or synchronous instant message channels to transmit negatively or positively valenced emotional information. The most common reason for choosing face-to-face over channels of CMC was the ability to use more nonverbal cues. The most common reason for choosing a CMC channel over face-to-face was to shield oneself from the message recipient. Face-to-face was deemed more effective, more personal, more comfortable, and less permanent than CMC channels. Reasons differed significantly by valence and channel. We suggest that better knowledge of why people choose certain channels for different types of socio-emotional communication can help develop more comprehensive theories of CMC that account for different attributes of each channel in information transmission.
Inhabiting the Sexual Landscape: Toward an Interpretive Theory of the Development of Sexual Orientation and Identity

Building on Paula Rust’s (1996) concept of a sexual landscape, we propose an interpretive theory of the development of both sexual orientation and sexual identity. We seek to reconcile human agency with active and shifting influences in social context and to recognize the inherent complexity of environmental factors while acknowledging the role that biological potential plays. We ground our model in the insights of three compatible and related theoretical perspectives: social constructionism, symbolic interactionism, and scripting theory. Within this framework, we explain how sexual orientation and sexual identities develop and potentially change.
Platinum folate nanoparticles toxicity: Cancer vs. normal cells

Almost for two decades metallic nanoparticles are successfully used for cancer detection, imaging and treatment. Due to their high electron density they can be easily observed by electron microscopy and used in laser and radiofrequency therapy as energy releasing agents. However, the limitation for this practice is an inability to generate tumor-specific heating in a minimally invasive manner to the healthy tissue. To overcome this restraint we proposed to use folic acid coated metallic nanoparticles and determine whether they preferentially penetrate cancer cells. We developed technique for synthesizing platinum nanoparticles using folic acid as stabilizing agent which produced particles of relatively narrow size distribution, having d=2.3 ± 0.5 nm. High resolution TEM and zeta potential analysis indicated that the particles produced by this method had a high degree of crystalline order with no amorphous outer shell and a high degree of colloidal stability. The keratinocytes and mammary breast cells (cancer and normal) were incubated with platinum folate nanoparticles, and the results showed that the IC50 was significantly higher for the normal cells than the cancer cells in both cases, indicating that these nanoparticles preferentially target the cancer cells. TEM images of thin sections taken from the two types of cells indicated that the number of vacuoles and morphology changes after incubation with nanoparticles was also larger for the cancer cells in both types of tissue studied. No preferential toxicity was observed when folic acid receptors were saturated with free folic acid prior to exposure to nanoparticles. These results confirm our hypothesis regarding the preferential penetration of folic acid coated nanoparticles to cancer cells due to receptor mediated endocytosis.
A process for the portfolio management of real estate assets

The paper identifies the need for a portfolio approach to the management of real estate assets, and sets out its key components as a ‘macro’ level process. Portfolio management is positioned within an overall model of the corporate real estate function, from which a definition is developed. The main generic components of real estate portfolio management are described, and the most significant findings from a survey of current practices among a group of corporate organisations are presented. The paper concludes that in overall terms a more robust approach to the portfolio management of real estate assets is required to maximise the portfolio’s functional and financial value to the business.
First demonstration of phase change memory device using solution processed GeTe nanoparticles

We present the first demonstration of a functional Phase Change Memory (PCM) device fabricated using solution processed GeTe phase change nanoparticle. The device shows the characteristic memory behavior of crystallization and threshold switching. The cycling endurance of the device is up to 100 cycles. The cells are currently the best performing solution processed phase change material based memory devices reported so far.
Echocardiographic parameters of left ventricular size and function as predictors of symptomatic heart failure in patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction of 50-59% treated with anthracyclines

The aim of this study was to assess whether baseline echocardiographic measures of left ventricular (LV) size and function predict the development of symptomatic heart failure or cardiac death (major adverse cardiac events, MACE) in patients treated with anthracyclines who have a pre-chemotherapy left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) between 50 and 59%. Methods and results Patients with an LVEF between 50 and 59% before anthracyclines were selected. In these patients, LV volumes, LVEF, and peak longitudinal strain (GLS) were measured. Individuals were followed for MACE and all-cause mortality over a median of 659 days (range: 3-3704 days). Of 2234 patients undergoing echocardiography for pre-anthracycline assessment, 158 (7%) had a resting ejection fraction of 50-59%. Their average LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) was 101+ 22 mL, LVEF was 54+ 3%, and global longitudinal strain (GLS) was 217.7+ 2.6%. Twelve patients experienced a MACE (congestive heart failure) at a median of 173 days (range: 15-530). Age, diabetes, previous coronary artery disease, LVEDV, indexed LVEDV, LVESV, indexed LVESV, and GLS were all predictive of MACE (P ¼ 0.012, 0.039, 0.0029, 0.012, and 0.0065 for LVEDV, LVEDVI, LVESV, LVESVI, and GLS, respectively). Indexed LVEDV and GLS remained predictive of MACE when adjusted for age. Age and GLS were also predictive of overall mortality (P , 0.0001 and 0.0105, respectively). Conclusion In patients treated with anthracyclines with an LVEF of 50-59%, both baseline EDV and GLS predict the occurrence of MACE. These parameters may help target patients who could benefit from closer cardiac surveillance and earlier initi- ation of cardioprotective medical therapy.
l-Fucose Stimulates Utilization of d-Ribose by Escherichia coli MG1655 ΔfucAO and E. coli Nissle 1917 ΔfucAO Mutants in the Mouse Intestine and in M9 Minimal Medium

Escherichia coli MG1655 uses several sugars for growth in the mouse intestine. To determine the roles of L-fucose and D-ribose, an E. coli MG1655 DeltafucAO mutant and an E. coli MG1655 DeltarbsK mutant were fed separately to mice along with wild-type E. coli MG1655. The E. coli MG1655 DeltafucAO mutant colonized the intestine at a level 2 orders of magnitude lower than that of the wild type, but the E. coli MG1655 DeltarbsK mutant and the wild type colonized at nearly identical levels. Surprisingly, an E. coli MG1655 DeltafucAO DeltarbsK mutant was eliminated from the intestine by either wild-type E. coli MG1655 or E. coli MG1655 DeltafucAO, suggesting that the DeltafucAO mutant switches to ribose in vivo. Indeed, in vitro growth experiments showed that L-fucose stimulated utilization of D-ribose by the E. coli MG1655 DeltafucAO mutant but not by an E. coli MG1655 DeltafucK mutant. Since the DeltafucK mutant cannot convert L-fuculose to L-fuculose-1-phosphate, whereas the DeltafucAO mutant accumulates L-fuculose-1-phosphate, the data suggest that L-fuculose-1-phosphate stimulates growth on ribose both in the intestine and in vitro. An E. coli Nissle 1917 DeltafucAO mutant, derived from a human probiotic commensal strain, acted in a manner identical to that of E. coli MG1655 DeltafucAO in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, L-fucose at a concentration too low to support growth stimulated the utilization of ribose by the wild-type E. coli strains in vitro. Collectively, the data suggest that L-fuculose-1-phosphate plays a role in the regulation of ribose usage as a carbon source by E. coli MG1655 and E. coli Nissle 1917 in the mouse intestine.
Shape from point features

We present a nonparametric and efficient method for shape localization that improves on the traditional sub-window search in capturing the fine geometry of an object from a small number of feature points. Our method implies that the discrete set of features capture more appearance and shape information than is commonly exploited. We use the a-complex by Edelsbrunner et al. to build a filtration of simplicial complexes from a user-provided set of features. The optimal value of a is determined automatically by a search for the densest complex connected component, resulting in a parameter-free algorithm. Given K features, localization occurs in O(K logK) time. For VGA-resolution images, computation takes typically less than 10 milliseconds. We use our method for interactive object cut, with promising results.
Cinnamedrine: Potential for Abuse

AbstractThree cases of psychological dependence upon the over-the-counter preparation of cinnamedryl, caffeine and aspirin (Midol ®) are reviewed. The relationship between cinnamedryl, amphetamine and other sympathomimetics is discussed. Similarities are noted in symptomatic response and chemical structure.