cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Concerted regulation of steroidogenic acute regulatory gene expression by luteinizing hormone and insulin (or insulin-like growth factor I) in primary cultures of porcine granulosa-luteal cells.

The steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein is indispensable for maximal trophic hormone-stimulated steroidogenesis by the adrenal gland, testis, and ovary. Recently, our laboratory developed an in vitro primary culture system of porcine granulosa-luteal cells that retain responsiveness to LH and show LH and insulin [or insulin-like growth factor (IGF-I)] synergy in stimulating StAR messenger RNA accumulation. Here, we examine the mechanisms subserving this LH-insulin (IGF-I) augmentation. We corroborate LH’s amplification of insulin as well as IGF-I-stimulated granulosa-luteal cell progesterone and cAMP accumulation (P , 0.001). Insulin or IGF-I elevated LH receptor transcript accumulation, and LH did not alter this effect. To determine the hormonal responsiveness of StAR promoter, truncated regions of the 21423 to 1130 bp upstream sequence of the porcine gene were ligated into a firefly luciferase reporter plasmid. Transient transfection of the StAR plasmid containing the full-length porcine 59-flanking region of StAR (pStAR1423/luc) showed superadditive stimulation by LH and insulin or IGF-I after 24 h. LH, but not insulin or IGF-I alone, stimulated pStAR1423/luc activity. Deletion of the proximal putative steroidogenic factor-1 (248 to 241) site abolished hormonally driven StAR promoter activity. A stable cAMP analog, 8-bromo-cAMP (1 mM), and insulin/IGF-I also evoked supraadditive StAR promoter expression. To further explore the role of cAMP in LH-insulin (or IGF-I) actions, we cotransfected a Rous sarcoma virus (RSV)-driven minigene encoding the heat-stable inhibitor of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (RSV/ PKI) or a mutant plasmid (RSV/PKImut) along with the pStAR1423/ luc promoter construct. Cotransfection of PKI, but not PKImut, with pStAR1423/luc significantly attenuated LH’s stimulation of luciferase activity and also reduced the magnitude of the transcriptional amplification exerted by LH and insulin or IGF-I. In corollary analyses of the protein kinase A (PKA) pathway, cotransfection of fulllength pStAR1423/luc and a complementary DNA encoding a constitutively activated PKA catalytic subunit elevated basal and insulin (or IGF-I)-stimulated StAR promoter expression. LH and insulin (or IGF-I) also augmented steady state StAR transcript levels, as assessed by homologous RT-PCR, and StAR protein concentrations, as evaluated by Western blotting. Together, these investigations document a significant role for insulin or IGF-I in enhancing LH-stimulated progesterone and cAMP biosynthesis and endogenous StAR message and protein accumulation and in augmenting cAMP-PKA-dependent transcriptional activation of the exogenous StAR promoter. (Endocrinology 141: 3983‐ 3992, 2000)
Persistent cholinergic presynaptic deficits after neonatal chlorpyrifos exposure.

Abstract The commonly-used organophosphate insecticide, chlorpyrifos (CPF), impairs brain cell development, axonogenesis and synaptogenesis. In the current study, we administered CPF to neonatal rats on postnatal (PN) days 1–4 (1 mg/kg) or PN11–14 (5 mg/kg), treatments that were devoid of overt toxicity. We then examined two cholinergic synaptic markers, choline acetyltransferase activity (ChAT) and [3H]hemicholinium-3 binding (HC-3) in the hippocampus, midbrain, striatum, brainstem and cerebral cortex in the juvenile (PN30) and young adult (PN60). Across all brain regions, CPF exposure evoked significant reductions in both markers, with larger effects on HC-3 binding, which is responsive to neuronal impulse activity, than on ChAT, a constitutive marker. Superimposed on the deficits, there were gender-selective effects and distinct regional disparities in the critical exposure period for vulnerability. In the hippocampus, either the early or late treatment regimen evoked decreases in ChAT but the early regimen elicited a much larger decrease in HC-3; effects persisted into adulthood. In the midbrain, CPF administration on PN1–4 elicited deficits similar to those seen in the hippocampus; however, exposure on PN11–14 elicited changes preferentially in females. Gender selectivity was also apparent in the striatum, in this case reflecting deficits in females after CPF treatment on PN1–4. In contrast, the effects of CPF on the brainstem were relatively more robust in males; effects in the cerebral cortex were less notable than in other regions. These results indicate that neonatal CPF exposure produces widespread deficiencies in cholinergic synaptic function that persist into adulthood. The effects are likely to contribute to gender-selective alterations in behavioral performance that persist or emerge long after the termination of exposure and well after the restoration of cholinesterase activity.
Crystallization and partial characterization of Staphylococcus aureus hyaluronate lyase.

Abstract Staphylococcus aureus , strain 1801, hyaluronate lyase was purified and crystallized to homogeneity as ascertained by chromatography and disc-gel electrophoresis. Purification procedures included sequential ammonium sulfate fractionation, acetone precipitation, Sephadex gel filtration, and ion exchange chromatography. During its passage through the cation exchange column, the hyaluronate lyase was resolved into two minor and one major fraction. The major peak, which was found to be cationic, was further characterized and designated as Fraction III. Carbohydrate analysis showed the presence of neutral sugars galactose, glucose, and mannose in the ratio of 1:3:6. Amino sugars galactosamine and glucosamine (or mannosamine) were present in a ratio of 1:1. Quantitative amino acid analysis of the Fraction III showed a relative abundance of the basic amino acids lysine and histidine.
The Equivalence of Semantic and Figural Presentation of the Same Test Items

A 30-item multiple choice word analogy test and a corresponding 30-item picture analogy test (in which the pictures corresponded to the words in the word analogy test) were administered to 289 civil service clerical employees. The equivalence of semantic (word) and figural (picture) presentation of the same item was determined by comparing the responses of each subject on each item pair. The proportion of correspondent responses (both items answered correctly or both items answered incorrectly) ranged from .69 to .91 with a median of .84. The proportion of correspondent responses significantly exceeded the expected chance proportion on 27 of the 30 item pairs. The correlation between scores on the two test forms was .86. Over 84% of the respondents gave correspondent responses with greater than chance frequency. Score distributions were practically identical. It was concluded that semantic and figural parallel test forms can be constructed.
Neonatal neural organizing effects of exogenous corticosteroids on sexual differentiation of the brain in the female rat.

Abstract Testosterone, deoxycorticosterone, or vehicle was administered neonatally to female Long-Evans rats. Parameters expressing the reproductive physiology and behavior of the adult animals were studied. It was found that neonatal administration of testosterone produced the expected “defeminization” and “masculinization” of the brain, affecting both the reproductive behavior and cyclicity of these females. In contrast, neonatal administration of the adrenal steroid did not affect cyclicity although it “defeminized” and “masculinized” sexual behavior, albeit to a lesser degree than testosterone. The results suggest a dichotomy in the neuroregulation of reproductive physiology and sexual behavior.
A neural network for generating diverse decision boundaries with a minimal number of parameters

We present a neural network architecture that can provide a large number of flexible decision bundarie for pattern recognition using a minimal number of parameters. A biologically compatible implementation of the network leads to greater discrimination power.
Subunits of the Yeast SWI/SNF Complex Are Members of the Actin-related Protein (ARP) Family

The yeast SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex is comprised of 11 tightly associated polypeptides (SWI1, SWI2, SWI3, SNF5, SNF6, SNF11, SWP82, SWP73, SWP59, SWP61, and SWP29). We have used matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry to identify the genes that encode the SWP59 and SWP61 subunits. Surprisingly, we find that SWP59 and SWP61 are encoded by the ARP9 and ARP7 genes, respectively, which encode members of the actin-related protein (ARP) family. Sequence analyses have shown that ARP9 and ARP7 are 24-26% identical (48-51% similar) to yeast actin and that they are likely to maintain the overall actin fold. Deletion of either the ARP9 or ARP7 gene causes typical swi/snf phenotypes, including growth defects on media containing galactose, glycerol, or sucrose as sole carbon sources. ARP9 and ARP7 are also required for expression of an HO-lacZ fusion gene and for full transcriptional enhancement by the GAL4 activator. The identification of two ARP family members as crucial subunits of the SWI/SNF complex suggests that the complex may contain a total of three different ATPase subunits; furthermore, the similarity of ARP7 and ARP9 to the HSP and HSC family of ATPases suggests the possibility that chromatin remodeling by SWI/SNF may involve chaperone-like activities.
Boundary ground ring in minimal string theory

We obtain relations among boundary states in bosonic minimal open string theory using the boundary ground ring. We also obtain a difference equation that boundary correlators must satisfy.
Molecular ordering of mixed surfactants in mesoporous silicas: a solid-state NMR study.

The use of mixed surfactants in the synthesis of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) is of importance in the context of adjusting pore structures, sizes and morphologies. In the present study, the arrangement of molecules in micelles produced from a mixture of two surfactants, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and cetylpyridinium bromide (CPB) was detailed by solid-state NMR spectroscopy. Proximities of methyl protons in the trimethylammonium headgroup of CTAB and protons in the pyridinium headgroup of CPB were observed under fast magic angle spinning (MAS) by {sup 1}H-{sup 1}H double quantum (DQ) MAS NMR and NOESY. This result suggested that CTAB and CPB co-exist in the pores without forming significant monocomponent domain structures. {sup 1}H-{sup 29}Si heteronuclear correlation (HETCOR) NMR showed that protons in the headgroups of CTAB are in closer proximity to the silica surface than those in the CPB headgroups. The structural information obtained in this investigation leads to better understanding of the mechanisms of self-assembly and their role in determining the structure and morphology of mesoporous materials.
Challenges in herbal research: a randomized clinical trial to assess blinding with ginger.

Summary Objective: To assess methods to blind study participants to encapsulated ginger (Zingiber officinale). Design: A randomized double-blind placebo controlled trial. Subjects: Eighty healthy male and female volunteers. Outcome measures: Whether participants can accurately determine if they receive a ginger or placebo capsule and a bottle filled with ginger or placebo capsules. Results: Forty-two subjects correctly identified the capsule they received. Of those who received placebo, over 82% correctly identified their capsule. Only 22.5% of those who received ginger correctly identified their capsule. The likelihood of guessing ginger between the groups was statistically similar (p Conclusions: Volunteers cannot determine which type of individual capsule they receive but can distinguish a bottle filled with ginger capsules.
Large-scale production of erythroid differentiation factor (EDF) by gene-engineered Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells in suspension culture

Abstract From Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells which were producing Erythroid Differentiation Factor (EDF) in a culture medium, anchorage-independent cells, named as CHO-SPN, were produced by repeated cultivating in a suspension system. The growth time and maximum cell density of the CHO-SPN cells were 48 h and 7.8×10 5 viable cells/ml. CHO-SPN cells accumulated 8,000 units/ml (corresponding to 4 mg/ml) of EDF in 4d. After 20 cycles of culture, CHO-SPN cells still possessed the same EDF productivity and the same growth kinetics. Furthermore, in an appropriate dissolved oxygen concentration and pH controlled culture system, the growth time and cell density became 24 h and 1×10 6 viable cells/ml. The critical level of dissolved oxygen for cell growth was 0.015 atm. The maximum oxygen demand was 3.3×10 −9 mole of O 2 /ml/min. Fetal bovine serum (FBS) was indispensable for cell growth. However, a FBS-free medium (ASF201) was available for maintenance of the CHO-SPN cells, and EDF production occurred in the same medium.
Peripheral vascular complications of aortic dissection

Abstract Background : The incidence and management of peripheral vascular complications of aortic dissection is unsettled. Patients and methods : Peripheral vascular complications of spontaneous aortic dissection were examined in a 5-year retrospective review. Patients who had peripheral vascular complications were categorized as group A; those without as group B. Results : Thirty-eitht major vessels were affected in 18 patients. No patient underwent a peripheral vascular procedure for complications of the carotid, subclavian, celiac, mesenteric, or renal arteries. Three patients underwent femorofemoral bypass for acute iliofemoral occlusion due to dissection. A fourth patient had repair of an iliac aneurysm that developed as a complication of chronic dissection. The mortality rate was 17% for group A, 9% for group B, and 10% overall. Following repair of the aortic dissection, the majority of the peripheral vascular complications resolved. Conclusions : Peripheral revascularization is infrequently required in aortic dissection following primary dissection repair.
Spectral and spatial modal control of two dimensional photonic crystal Bragg lasers

We demonstrate electrically-pumped, edge-emitting, single-mode, large-area photonic crystal lasers with angled facets. We obtain the spectral and spatial modal control of the laser by designing the photonic crystal lattice and index contrast.
Pore-scale study of the collector efficiency of nanoparticles in packings of nonspherical collectors

Pore-scale simulations of flow and transport through a filter were used to predict clean-bed filtration of nanoparticles from a 3D image of the filter. X-ray micro-computed tomography was used to obtain the geometry and topology of the filter consisting of flattened half-spherical collectors. A Lattice-Boltzmann method was used to model fluid flow and particle transport in the volumetric image of the filter. Nanoparticles are considered that are so small that diffusion, as compared to the processes of gravitational settlement and interception, dominates particle deposition. A correlation equation is determined for the average collector efficiency for diffusion through regression analysis performed for a set of numerical breakthrough experiments for a range of suspended particle sizes and Darcy velocities. This correlation quantifies the collector size by the surface average equivalent sphere diameter. The newly derived correlation agrees well with experimental data.
Noninvasive, in vivo imaging of blood-oxygenation dynamics within the mouse brain using photoacoustic microscopy

Photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) has been used to obtain high-resolution, noninvasive images of the in vivo mouse brain. In this work, we exploit the high-depth and temporal resolutions of PAM to noninvasively image the blood-oxygenation dynamics of multiple cortex vessels in the mouse brain simultaneously in response to controlled hypoxic and hyperoxic challenges. These results confirm the ability of PAM to track blood oxygenation in the mouse brain, a critical aspect of imaging brain activity through the hemodynamic response.
Pharyngeal swallow in gastroesophageal reflux disease

Outside of the otolaryngologic literature it is not generally recognized that symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux are associated with abnormalities in the larynx and pharynx. Published data of videorecordings of the normal pharyngeal swallow in 16 patients asymptomatic for dysphagia or gastroesophageal reflux were compared to data from recordings from a second group of 70 patients, who were symptomatic for dysphagia or gastroesophageal reflux. Both groups were timed in a similar manner, and the timing data were compared by Studentt-test to determine if functional variations between the groups existed. Fifty-eight timed events occurring during the swallowing process, 23 in the anterior view and 35 in the lateral view, were analyzed. A comparison of events occurring before and after bolus arrival in the esophagus was made. Eighteen percent of events in the pre-esophageal period occurred significantly earlier (p<0.05) in the symptomatic group. Marked differences were seen after the bolus entered the esophagus as 39% of events occurred significantly later in the symptomatic group. Our data suggest that individuals with symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease demonstrate a number of functional variations during the pharyngeal swallow. This finding is consistent with structural changes described in the otolaryngologic literature.
Corporate reputation as strategic competitive advantage of manufacturing and service-based firms: multi-industry case study

The present study focuses on corporate reputation from a resource-based view (RBV) theoretical viewpoint as an intangible strategic asset. Although empirical evidence is very sparse on the subject and relatively immature at this stage of development, best business practices dictate that a favourable reputation is positively associated with future financial performance. However, having a sterling company reputation is not only beneficial to a firm’s strategic position in a tight economic marketplace, but it may contribute to a firm’s sustainable competitive advantage. Dominion, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Fifth Third Bank provided excellent examples of how a manufacturing and service companies’ reputation grants them competitive advantage over rival firms. As with any strategic asset, such as product and service reputation, the present case study provided evidence that there is a positive association with firm performance and the proper management of this asset. A properly nurtured and maintained reputation is valuable, typically rare, and imperfectly imitable, as defined by RBV theoretical assumptions.
Electron predators are hydrogen atom traps. Effects of aryl groups on N-Cα bond dissociations of peptide radicals

Effects of substituted aryl groups on dissociations of peptide aminoketyl radicals were studied computationally for model tetrapeptide intermediates GXD•G where X was a cysteine residue that was derivatized by S‐(3‐nitrobenzyl), S‐(3‐cyanobenzyl), S‐(3,5‐dicyanobenzyl), S‐(2,3,4,5,6‐pentafluorobenzyl), and S‐benzyl groups. The aminoketyl radical was placed within the Asp amide group. Aminoketyl radicals having the S‐(3‐nitrobenzyl) group were found to undergo spontaneous and highly exothermic migration of the hydroxyl hydrogen atom onto the nitro group in conformers allowing interaction between these groups. Competing reaction channels were investigated for aminoketyl radicals having the S‐(3‐cyanobenzyl) and S‐(3,5‐dicyanobenzyl) groups, e.g. H‐atom migration to the C and N atoms of the C≡N group, migration to the C‐4 position of the phenyl ring, and dissociation of the radical‐activated NCα bond between the Asp and Gly residues. RRKM kinetic analysis on the combined B3LYP and ROMP2/6‐311++G(2d,p) potential energy surface indicated > 99% H‐atom transfer to the C≡N group forming a stable iminyl intermediate. The NCα bond dissociation was negligible. In contrast, peptides with the S‐(2,3,4,5,6‐pentafluorobenzyl) and S‐benzyl groups showed preferential NCα bond dissociation that outcompeted H‐atom migration to the C‐4 position and fluorine substituents in the phenyl ring. These computational results are used to suggest an alternative mechanism for the quenching effect on electron‐based peptide backbone dissociations of benzyl groups with electron‐withdrawing substitutents, as reported recently. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Psychologic, physical, nutritional, and technologic aspects of intravenous infusion during labor.

Giving intravenous (IV) fluids in labor is currently an accepted custom in United States hospitals, although most indications for this practice have not been validated by adequate outcome research. This paper discusses the following questions: 1) Does IV therapy add pain to the woman in labor? 2) Does it have an adverse impact on the attitudes of health care workers and on the laboring woman? 3) Does partial immobilization caused by IV lines have adverse effects? 4) Does the practice introduce a possible route of infection and overdose of fluids? 5) Do IV fluids give adequate nutrition in labor? 6) Does glucose administered intravenously sometimes cause psy-chophysical and neurologic complications? 7) Might forced feeding with glucose in IV fluids in late labor sometimes be harmful? The need for individualized treatment and much more research is emphasized. (BIRTH 15:2, June 1988)
Influence of Transfusions on Perioperative and Long-Term Outcome in Patients Following Hepatic Resection for Colorectal Metastases

Objective To determine if transfusion affected perioperative and long-term outcome in patients undergoing liver resection for metastatic colorectal cancer. Background Data Blood transfusion produces host immunosuppression and has been postulated to result in adverse outcome for patients undergoing surgical resection of malignancies. Methods Blood transfusion records and clinical outcomes for 1,351 patients undergoing liver resection at a tertiary cancer referral center were analyzed. Results Blood transfusion was associated with adverse outcome after liver resection. The greatest effect was in the perioperative course, where transfusion was an independent predictor of operative mortality, complications, major complications, and length of hospital stay. This effect was dose-related. Patients receiving one or two units or more than two units had an operative mortality of 2.5% and 11.1%, respectively, compared to 1.2% for patients not requiring transfusions. Transfusion was also associated with adverse long-term survival by univariate analysis, but this factor was not significant on multivariate analysis. Even patients receiving only one or two units had a more adverse outcome. Conclusions Perioperative blood transfusion is a risk factor for poor outcome after liver resection. Blood conservation methods should be used to avoid transfusion, especially in patents currently requiring limited amounts of transfused blood products.
Application of Regression Analysis Concepts to Retrospective Research in Speech Pathology

The underlying logic of retrospective research in speech pathology is examined critically. This research model focuses on differences among discrete groups. Regression analysis concepts are suggest...
Sublimation, chemical decomposition, and melting inside an elastoplastic material: General continuum thermodynamic and kinetic theory

Abstract General thermodynamic and kinetic approaches for sublimation inside an elastoplastic material are developed for large strains. Various conceptual problems related to the effect of irreversible plastic deformation and dissipation, path-dependence of the appearance of a critical nucleus, and the presence of large strains are considered. Two transformation paths are studied: nucleation via homogeneous transformation in the nucleus of fixed mass and nucleation via continuous interface propagation. For both paths, the expressions for the thermodynamic driving forces and activation energies are derived. The activation energy is equal to the negative driving force for the appearance of a nucleus maximized with respect to nucleus mass and minimized over the nucleus shape, transformation path, and position. This definition corresponds to the principle of the minimum of transformation time and reduces to the traditional one in the limit of elastic materials. An Arrhenius-type kinetic equation for nucleation time and kinetic nucleation criterion are formulated. Algorithms for the determination of the critical nucleus are suggested. After appearance of the nucleus via homogeneous transformation, the possibility of its growth should be checked. Growth may occur by further sublimation or by mechanical expansion without phase transformation due to mechanical instability. Because the driving force for forward and reverse transformations maybe different, several scenarios are possible. The nucleus can grow, disappear, or be arrested; in the last case, it represents a stable rather than a critical nucleus. It is demonstrated that with small modifications, our approach to sublimation can be applied to chemical decomposition and melting inside an elastoplastic material. In the accompanying paper ( Levitas and Altukhova, 2012 ) we will apply the developed theory to nucleation of a spherical gas bubble inside an elastoplastic material.
Complications of plate fixation of femoral shaft fractures in children and adolescents

Abstract Purpose This study aims to critically analyze the major and minor complications that may be associated with plate fixation of pediatric diaphyseal femur fractures. Methods The medical records of skeletally immature patients (6–15 years of age) who underwent plate fixation of a diaphyseal femur fracture at a tertiary-care level-1 pediatric trauma center between 1/2003 and 12/2010 were reviewed. Demographic and clinical information regarding the mechanism of injury, fracture type, and surgical technique were recorded. Radiographic evaluation of bony healing, hardware position, and deformity was performed throughout the study period. All intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded. Complication incidence and time from surgery to complication were described. Multivariate logistic regression and multivariate Cox regression models were used to assess the association between different variables and the occurrence of a complication. Kaplan–Meier survivorship curves were used to evaluate ...
Resistance and susceptibility of algae to decomposition by natural microbial communities

The susceptibility to microbial decomposition of species of 14 algae was assessed in pond water and with inocula from several environments. Some of the algae were destroyed in short periods, but others withstood microbial digestion for more than 4 weeks. The production of toxins did not account for the resistance of those algae not readily destroyed microbiologically. The suitability of the cell walls as a substrate for microorganisms was correlated with the longevity of three susceptible ( ChZamydomonas reinhardtii, CyZindrospermum sp., and Ulothrix fimbrata) and three resistant (Fischerella muscicola, Pediastrum duplex, and Staurastrum sp.) algae. Microorganisms able to digest walls of the susceptible but not of the resistant algae wcrc also isolated. The differing susceptibilities to decomposition may be related to the relative biodegradabilities of specific components of the algal walls. Although algal growth can be controlled or modified by chemical means and by reducing nutrient inputs into waters, little is known of the biological control mechanisms that limit algal growth under normal conditions or cause the sudden termination of aquatic blooms. This study was undertaken to gain an understanding of some of the biochemical factors that may be important in programs designed to effect a biological control of algae and, specifically, to determine the basis for the resistance and susceptibility of algae to microbial attack. We thank I. Feigenoff for her assistance. Support for the work was provided by a Ford Foundation training grant in the ecology of pest management.
Embryonic Pituitary Adrenal Axis, Behavior Development and Domestication in Birds

ACTH and corticosterone exert opposite effects on the approach and imprinting behavior of newly hatched ducklings. Wild mallard and domesticated Pekin ducklings differ in the early posthatch period in both plasma corticosterone levels and approach/avoidance behaviors. Injection of Pekin duckling embryos with pituitary—adrenocortical hormones alters both later adrenal function and certain aspects of posthatch behavior. These birds have behavioral and hormonal characteristics which resemble those of wild mallards. The hypothesis that behavioral differences in wild and domesticated ducklings result from a higher level of pituitary adrenal function in the wild embryo is explored. Although adrenocortical function changes during domestication in many species, evidence that the hormonal changes mediate the concomitant changes in approach and avoidance behavior remains inconclusive. Factors which cause adrenal function and early behaviors to differ in wild and domesticated genotypes must be sought in the gene action during embryonic development. Since imprinting behavior is modulated by pituitary—adrenal hormones, any factor which affects post—hatch adrenal function may potentially affect imprinting. Later behavior development in the adult is strongly dependent on neonatal experiences; and, therefore, hormonal modulation of early imprinting behavior may constitute an important determinant of adult social behavior.
SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPY ANALYSIS OF FUEL/MATRIX INTERACTION LAYERS IN HIGHLY-IRRADIATED U-Mo DISPERSION FUEL PLATES WITH Al AND Al–Si ALLOY MATRICES

In order to investigate how the microstructure of fuel/matrix-interaction (FMI) layers change during irradiation, different U?7Mo dispersion fuel plates have been irradiated to high fission density and then characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Specifially, samples from irradiated U?7Mo dispersion fuel elements with pure Al, Al?2Si and AA4043 (~4.5 wt.%Si) matrices were SEM characterized using polished samples and samples that were prepared with a focused ion beam (FIB). Features not observable for the polished samples could be captured in SEM images taken of the FIB samples. For the Al matrix sample, a relatively large FMI layer develops, with enrichment of Xe at the FMI layer/Al matrix interface and evidence of debonding. Overall, a significant penetration of Si from the FMI layer into the U?7Mo fuel was observed for samples with Si in the Al matrix, which resulted in a change of the size (larger) and shape (round) of the fission gas bubbles. Additionally, solid fission product phases were observed to nucleate and grow within these bubbles. These changes in the localized regions of the microstructure of the U?7Mo may contribute to changes observed in the macroscopic swelling of fuel plates with Al?Si matrices.
Tuberculosis of the Adrenal Gland: A Case Report and Review of the Literature of Infections of the Adrenal Gland

Infections of the adrenal glands remain an important cause of adrenal insufficiency, especially in the developing world. Indeed, when Thomas Addison first described the condition that now bears his name over 150 years ago, the vast majority of cases were attributable to tuberculosis. Here we describe a classic, but relatively uncommon, presentation in the United States of adrenal insufficiency followed by a review of the current literature pertaining to adrenal infections.
Surgical intervention for coronary artery perforation of combined type III and IV due to angioplasty and stent implantation—a case report

With ever increasing percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) for coronary artery disease, the need for emergency coronary artery bypass as a rescue procedure for rare complication is also emerging. Complications following coronary interventions are rare today with an incidence of 0.1 % for lesions treated by balloon angiop las ty and 0.5–3.0 % for les ions t rea ted by atheroablative devices [3, 4]. Complications include hemopericardium, cardiac tamponade, fistula to the left or right ventricle, and coronary arteriovenous fistula. Coronary perforations are associated with high incidence of death, myocardial infarction, and emergency surgery. Only one case of coronary artery rupture both into pericardium and ventricle simultaneously has been reported in the literature. We describe a case of right coronary artery (RCA) perforation after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stent implantation, leading to both cardiac tamponade and a fistula to the right ventricle (RV) that was managed with a successful emergency coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Case report
Spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy: pathogenesis and clinical management.

Spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy, or Kennedy's disease, is an X-linked motor neuron disease caused by polyglutamine repeat expansion in the androgen receptor. The disease is characterised by weakness, atrophy and fasciculations in the limb and bulbar muscles. Affected males may have signs of androgen insensitivity, such as gynaecomastia and reduced fertility. Neurophysiological studies are typically consistent with diffuse denervation atrophy, and serum creatine kinase is usually elevated 2–5 times above normal. Progression of the disease is slow, and the focus of spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) management is to prevent complications.
Tire-wear particles as a source of zinc to the environment

Tire-tread material has a zinc (Zn) content of about 1 wt %. The quantity of tread material lost to road surfaces by abrasion has not been well characterized. Two approaches were used to assess the magnitude of this nonpoint source of Zn in the U.S. for the period 1936−1999. In the first approach, tread-wear rates from the automotive engineering literature were used in conjunction with vehicle distance-driven data from the U.S. Department of Transportation to determine Zn releases. A second approach calculated this source term from the volume of tread lost during lifetime tire wear. These analyses showed that the quantity of Zn released by tire wear in the mid-1990s was of the same magnitude as that released from waste incineration. For 1999, the quantity of Zn released by tire wear in the U.S. is estimated to be 10 000−11 000 metric tons. A specific case study focused on Zn sources and sinks in an urban−suburban watershed (Lake Anne) in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area for a time period of the late ...
Effect of Post–Myocardial Infarction Exercise Training on the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System and Cardiac Function

After a myocardial infarction (MI), the injured heart undergoes intensive remodeling characterized by activation of the circulating renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), left ventricular (LV) dilation, and contractile dysfunction. Exercise training may attenuate activation of the RAAS and improve myocardial remodeling. In this study, we investigated whether starting exercise training early or late after MI would have different effect on circulating RAAS and LV dilation and function. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (7 weeks old) underwent surgically induced MI. After surgery, rats were matched for similar infarct sizes and assigned into two major groups, based on the designated starting time of exercise training. Exercise groups started exercise at either 1 or 6 weeks after MI and exercised on a treadmill for 8 weeks. Groups starting exercise 1 week after MI included sham-operated control (1Wk-Sham), MI-ksedentary (1Wk-MI-Sed), and MI-exercise (1Wk-MI-Ex). Groups starting exercise 6 weeks after MI included sham-operated control (6Wk-Sham), MI-sedentary (6Wk-MI-Sed), and MI-exercise (6Wk-MI-Ex). An echocardiogram was performed before and after exercise training. Blood samples were obtained at the end of experiments. The results showed that compared with sedentary rats with MI, exercise training significantly attenuated circulating renin, angiotensin converting enzyme, angiotensin II, and aldosterone. Rats in exercise groups had similar LV end-diastolic diameters compared with their sedentary counterparts and tended to have smaller LV end-systolic diameters, and percent fractional shortening in exercise rats was significantly higher than in sedentary rats. These findings suggest that exercise training does not cause LV dilation and preserves LV function. Post-MI exercise training also normalizes the circulating RAAS, and this effect is independent of timing of post-MI exercise. Exercise starting early or late after MI affects myocardial remodeling and function similarly, suggesting that early exercise training may attenuate activation of the RAAS and preserve cardiac function early after MI.
Some large deviation results for sparse random graphs

We obtain a large deviation principle (LDP) for the relative size of the largest connected component in a random graph with small edge probability. The rate function, which is not convex in general, is determined explicitly using a new technique. The proof yields an asymptotic formula for the probability that the random graph is connected. We also present an LDP and related result for the number of isolated vertices. Here we make use of a simple but apparently unknown characterisation, which is obtained by embedding the random graph in a random directed graph. The results demonstrate that, at this scaling, the properties `connected' and `contains no isolated vertices' are not asymptotically equivalent. (At the threshold probability they are asymptotically equivalent.)
IDIOPATHIC BRACHIAL NEURITIS

Parsonage-Turner syndrome (PTS) is a rare syndrome of unknown cause, affecting mainly the lower motor neurons of the brachial plexus. The brachial plexus is a group of nerves that conduct signals from the spine to the shoulder, arm, and hand. PTS is usually characterized by the sudden onset of severe 1-sided shoulder pain, followed by paralysis of the shoulder and lack of muscle control in the arm, wrist, or hand several days later. PTS can vary greatly in presentation and nerve involvement. Also known as brachial plexus neuritis or neuralgic amyotrophy, PTS is a common condition characterized by inflammation of a network of nerves that control and supply, or innervate, the muscles of the chest, shoulders, and arms. Individuals with the condition first experience severe pain across the shoulder and upper arm. Within a few hours or days, weakness, wasting (atrophy), and paralysis may affect the muscles of the shoulder. Although individuals with the condition may experience paralysis of the affected areas for months or, in some cases, years, recovery is usually eventually complete.
The growth of US labour productivity 1950–1989

A quarterly model of US labour productivity growth for the 1950–1989 period is presented. The time trend over this period is insignificant, a result superficially consistent with the notion that the problem of slow productivity growth has been exaggerated. Historically, high growth of labour productivity during the 1950–64 period and its subsequent decline are shown to be the product of trends in the growth of labour quality as measured by test scores. The results suggest that it will be difficult for the US to achieve its historic growth rate of labour productivity.
PROSTATE-SPECIFIC ANTIGEN HALVING TIME WHILE ON NEOADJUVANT ANDROGEN DEPRIVATION THERAPY IS ASSOCIATED WITH BIOCHEMICAL CONTROL IN MEN TREATED WITH RADIATION THERAPY FOR LOCALIZED PROSTATE CANCER

Purpose To assess whether the PSA response to neoadjuvant androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is associated with biochemical control in men treated with radiation therapy (RT) for prostate cancer. Methods and Materials In a cohort of men treated with curative-intent RT for localized prostate cancer between 1988 and 2005, 117 men had PSA values after the first and second months of neoadjuvant ADT. Most men had intermediate-risk (45%) or high-risk (44%) disease. PSA halving time (PSAHT) was calculated by first order kinetics. Median RT dose was 76 Gy and median total duration of ADT was 4 months. Freedom from biochemical failure (FFBF, nadir + 2 definition) was analyzed by PSAHT and absolute PSA nadir before the start of RT. Results Median follow-up was 45 months. Four-year FFBF was 89%. Median PSAHT was 2 weeks. A faster PSA decline (PSAHT ≤2 weeks) was associated with greater FFBF (96% vs. 81% for a PSAHT >2 weeks, p = 0.0110). Those within the fastest quartile of PSAHTs (≤ 10 days) achieved a FFBF of 100%. Among high-risk patients, a PSAHT ≤2 weeks achieved a 4-yr FFBF of 93% vs. 70% for those with PSAHT >2 weeks ( p = 0.0508). Absolute PSA nadir was not associated with FFBF. On multivariable analysis, PSAHT ( p = 0.0093) and Gleason score ( p = 0.0320) were associated with FFBF, whereas T-stage ( p = 0.7363) and initial PSA level ( p = 0.9614) were not. Conclusions For men treated with combined ADT and RT, PSA response to the first month of ADT may be a useful criterion for prognosis and treatment modification.
Parental Depressive Symptoms and Adolescent Adjustment: Responses to Children's Distress and Representations of Attachment as Explanatory Mechanisms

SYNOPSIS Objective . This study seeks to extend the investigation of parenting as an explanatory mechanism for relations between parental depressive symptoms and adolescent adjustment in the context of a four-wave longitudinal study. Design . Participants were cohabiting parents and their 320 children (156 boys, 164 girls). Parental depressive symptoms were assessed in kindergarten (T1), parental negative response to children's emotional distress in 1st grade (T2), children's representations of attachment with parents in 2nd grade (T3), and adolescent adjustment in 7th grade (T4). Results . Multiple pathways were identified in predicting adolescent conduct problems, including links involving (1) mothers' depressive symptoms, mothers' negative responses to children's distress and insecure father–child attachment representations; (2) fathers' depressive symptoms and insecure father–child attachment representations; and (3) fathers' depressive symptoms and negative responses to children's distress. A pathway...
Fermi surfaces and electron–impurity interactions in simple metals

A review is given of the current status of our work on electron transport properties and Fermi surfaces in simple metals. A simple classical model is proposed to extend existing theory to account for the effects of electron-impurity interactions on the behavior of magnetoacoustic absorption and the size and shape of the Fermi surface in the alkali metal potassium. The theoretical prediction is compared with measurements of the magnetoacoustic absorptionand Fermi surface diameters in potassium crystals of different impurity levels. An attempt is made to explain, on the basis of the theory of electron–impurity interactions, the decrease by 9% in the Fermi diameter and the departure by 53% in the phase factors of the impure potassium crystal. The results are compared with observations on a zone refined potassium crystal which satisfies the nearly-free-electron model.
Shark lymphocytes: Primitive antigen reactive cells

Abstract Shark lymphocytes have been characterized by the presence or absence of surface immunoglobulin (SIg). Thus, SIg + cells are B lymphocytes, and SIg − cells are presumed to include the shark T cell subset, as well as other minor subsets of lymphocytes. Few functional studies have been performed to characterize the nature of either lymphocyte population. To date, there is no information concerning the shark T cell receptor. The majority of adult mammalian T cell receptors are composed of α and β chain heterodimers while a minority use γ and δ chains. The discussion presented here explores the evidence that the majority of shark lymphocytes are analogous to mammalian T and B lymphocytes that appear during early fetal development. The hypotheses considered suggest that shark T cells are similar to γδ T cell receptor (TCR)-bearing mammalian T lymphocytes, and that shark B cells are the primitive equivalent of neonatal and newborn primary B cells.
Health-Related Quality of Life in Patient Decision Making

Several studies suggest that patients want control and will seek to make choices that maximize their health outcomes. This paper describes a General Health Policy Model that can help patients exercise control by participating in choices related to their care. The model expresses health outcome as a combination of mortality and morbidity and can be used to explain circumstances in which patients appear to act irrationally—e.g., nonadherence to a prescribed medical regimen, overuse of medical interventions, signing living wills, and preference for unconventional treatments. Directly incorporating patient preferences into treatment decisions can enhance the patient's sense of autonomy while achieving comparable health outcomes and reducing health care costs. Policy models that incorporate patient choice (in comparison to more traditional models) may result in a different allocation of our scarce health care resources.
Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease: clinical outcomes.

Purpose To evaluate the effect of treatment on the incidence of vision impairment and structural ocular complications among patients with Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease. Design Retrospective cohort study. Methods setting: Single-center academic practice. study population: Twenty-four consecutive patients with VKH disease who were referred for evaluation and treatment from November 1984 through May 2004. procedures: Information on patients with VKH disease was entered retrospectively into a database and analyzed with time-dependent techniques. main outcome measures: Incidence of visual impairment and of structural ocular complications. Results In better-seeing eyes, the frequencies of vision loss to 20/50 or worse and to 20/200 or worse at presentation were 50% and 30%, respectively. The incidence rates on follow-up examination for vision loss to 20/50 or worse and to 20/200 or worse were 9% per person-year and 7% per person-year in the better-seeing eye. Oral corticosteroid therapy was associated with a reduced risk of loss of visual acuity to the 20/200 or worse in the better-seeing eye (relative risk [RR] = 0.33; P = .05). The use of immunosuppressive drug therapy was associated with a reduced risk of vision loss to the 20/50 or worse and to the 20/200 or worse thresholds in the better-seeing eye (RR = 0.33; P = .05; and RR=0.08; P = .04, respectively). Conclusion VKH disease may result in substantial visual impairment. The use of oral corticosteroid or immunosuppressive drug therapy may reduce the risk of vision loss during the follow-up period.
Quantum projection renormalization group study of a spin 1 Ising model: Universality

Abstract The projective renormalization group is used to study the ground state critical properties of the quantum spin model obtained from a classical spin 1 Ising model via the transfer matrix. The thermal exponent calculated is found to be in good agreement with the value obtained from low temperature series expansions. When the spin 1 2 case is included for comparison, universality is seen to be well respected.
Effect of a community-based Aedes aegypti control programme on mosquito larval production sites in El Progreso, Honduras

This paper describes the results of a trial to assess the efficacy in reducing the density of larval production sites of utilizing community involvement in the planning and implementation of an Aedes aegypti control programme, in a dengue-endemic city in Honduras. In addition to a substantial increase in knowledge about dengue transmission and prevention, a relative reduction in Ae. aegypti larval infestation indices was found in those city neighbourhoods where community involvement was utilized compared with their untreated counterparts. Several methods of improving the impact of this type of programme are discussed.