cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Molecular mobilities in chromaffin granules magnetic field dependence of proton T1 relaxation times

Abstract The magnetic field dependence of the NMR spin-lattice relaxation time of water protons in intact bovine chromaffin vesicles has been studied over the range 1.00–23.49 kG. The T1 relaxation time shows a dispersion a t field values near 20 kG. The observed proton resonance arises mainly from solvent protons (1H2O), but the relaxation rate, which is a weighted average over all sites with which the solvent protons rapidly exchange (i.e., NH and OH protons), is dominated by exchangeable protons in the most slowly moving soluble component. The field dependence of the T1 dispersion demonstrates the existence of a site of exchangeable protons for which τr = 1.9±0.5 ns at 3°C. This site is assigned to ATP and cationic groups to which its phosphate esters are complexed, since previously measured correlation times of epinephrine and the chromogranin backbone are nearly an order of magnitude too short to explain the T1 dispersion. Quantitative estimates of the relative numbers of exchangeable protons on the different soluble components support this interpretation. The temperature dependence of T1 of the peak due to exchangeable protons has also been measured over a temperature range −3 to 25°C. T1 lengthens by about 30% over this range and exhibits no discontinuous behavior, as would be expected if a gel transition or structural alterations in the storage complex occurred. T1 lengthens by less than 10% in chromaffin granule pastes that have been maintained at 25°C for 24 h, indicating considerable thermal stability in the storage complex. Possible effects on the solvent T1 due to paramagnetic ions have been considered with the conclusion that they are probably negligible or of minor significance.
Comparative genomics of Bacillus thuringiensis phage 0305φ8-36: defining patterns of descent in a novel ancient phage lineage

Background The recently sequenced 218 kb genome of morphologically atypical Bacillus thuringiensis phage 0305φ8-36 exhibited only limited detectable homology to known bacteriophages. The only known relative of this phage is a string of phage-like genes called BtI1 in the chromosome of B. thuringiensis israelensis. The high degree of divergence and novelty of phage genomes pose challenges in how to describe the phage from its genomic sequences.
Root dynamics of Carex stricta -dominated tussock meadows

Background and aims The roots of tussock-forming plants contribute to the formation of microtopographic features in many ecosystems, but the dynamics of such roots are poorly understood. We examined the spatial heterogeneity of tussock fine root dynamics to investigate allocation patterns and the role of root productivity in the persistence of tussock structures.
Use of simultaneous angioplasty and in situ thrombolysis with a specialized balloon catheter for peripheral interventions

The treatment of acute limb ischemia is always challenging. Various techniques including balloon angioplasty, rheolytic thrombectomy, and prolonged localized infusion of thrombolytics are often used to achieve revascularization. However, some patients with suboptimal angiographic results may benefit from novel alternatives such as the Clearway irrigation balloon (Atrium, Hudson, NH, USA). This device allows simultaneous low-pressure balloon angioplasty and delivery of thrombolytics in situ in patients with arterial or venous thrombosis. This strategy may improve the acute angiographic results in complex acute limb ischemia cases.
Currency Substitution and the Stability of the Demand for Money in East Asia

Abstract This paper models and tests the stability of the demand for money in five East Asian countries—Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand—in the context of an open economy. The Johansen multivariate cointegration vector error correction analysis against quarterly data covering the period 1985:1–2001:4 was used. It was found that a stationary long run cointegrating relationship exists between broad money, real income, domestic interest rates, foreign interest rates corrected for exchange rate depreciation, and the expected rate of depreciation of the exchange rate. The results show that US Treasury bills rates and the foreign exchange rate vis-a-vis the US dollar play a significant role in the East Asian countries money demand relationship. This suggests that currency substitution vis-a-vis the US dollar may be an important consideration in the design and implementation of monetary policy in the East Asian countries. Furthermore, the results show that the Asian currency crises impac...
N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are inactivated by trypsin

Acute isolation of hippocampal CA3 pyramidal cells using trypsin produces neurons which respond to kainate and quisqualate but not N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA). Incubation of 6- to 12-day-old cultured hippocampal neurons or slices of pyriform cortex with trypsin irreversibly removes the NMDA responses normally present without significant effect on responses to kainate or quisqualate. These data indicate that the NMDA receptor has a trypsin-sensitive component which is necessary for agonist recognition or ion channel activation.
Ephemerides in chebyshev series

In c e l e s t i a l m e c h a n i c s one c a l l s t h e o r y a d i c t i o n a r y o f f o r mulas t o r e p r e s e n t a p p r o x i m a t e l y a c l a s s o f s o l u t i o n s to v a r i a n t s o f t h e p r o b l e m o f n b o d i e s . The l i t e r a l s e r i e s a r e e v a l u a t e d a t e q u i d i s t a n t t i m e s , and t h e r e s u l t s a r e p u b l i s h e d by co lumns p r o l o n g e d from y e a r to y e a r in t h e e p h e m e r i d e s p u b l i s h e d by v a r i o u s n a t i o n a l a lmanac o f f i c e s . To a l l e v i a t e t h e t a s k s o f t h e comp u t i n g s t a f f s , t h e a u t h o r o f a t h e o r y w o u l d have r e c a s t t h e d i c t i o n a r y i n t o a h i e r a r c h y o f a u x i l i a r y t a b l e s ; so t h e c a l c u l a t i o n o f a c o o r d i n a t e a t a g i v e n t i m e amoun ted t o c u m u l a t i n g c o r r e c t i o n s o b t a i n e d by l i n e a r i n t e r p o l a t i o n s in p a s s i n g f rom one t a b l e t o t h e n e x t . With t h e a d v e n t o f c o m p u t e r s , t h e t a b l e s a r e b e i n g r e p l a c e d by p rogrammed s u b r o u t i n e s . ~ t o r e o v e r c o m p u t e r l a n g u a g e s a r e b e i n g d e s i g n e d t o g e n e r a t e a u t o m a t i c a l l y t h e t h e o r i e s o f c e l e s t i a l me ch an i c s .
The role of the epidermal growth factor receptor in the treatment of colorectal carcinoma.

Objectives To review the implications of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) blockade and become familiar with the clinical experience in colorectal carcinoma to date. Data Sources Research articles and textbooks. Conclusions Blockade of the EGFR results in clinically significant antitumor activities in a variety of tumors, including colorectal carcinoma. There are a variety of mechanisms by which to block the EGFR pathway. Those that have undergone extensive clinical testing include tyrosine kinase inhibitors and anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies. In addition, biological agents have shown promise when combined with traditional cytotoxic approaches. Implications for Nursing Practice With many targeted biological agents undergoing evaluation, it is important that nurses become familiar with early clinical experience to understand their role in the treatment of cancer.
Sea level controls carbon accumulation in the Everglades

How much carbon is stored in the organic soils of tropical wetlands is becoming an important question as erosion, agriculture, and global climate change slowly set into motion a series of processes that could potentially release carbon locked up in these wetlands. In a recent study, Glaser et al. reconstructed a complete, carbon-14 dated 4000-year history of both organic and inorganic matter accumulation in the Everglades of south Florida. The authors found that despite the fact that erosion, fires, and similar processes may have removed as much as 2 meters of soil from the Everglades, there is a remarkable consistency in the accumulation rates of both organic and inorganic matter in the Everglades over the past 4000 years. They speculate that processes such as sea level rise that operate on time scales of centuries or even millennia may be ultimately controlling the rates of formation and accumulation of organic matter in the Everglades.
Oral Absorption of Anti-Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Nucleoside Analogues. 2. Carrier-Mediated Intestinal Transport of Stavudine in Rat and Rabbit Preparations†

Abstract The intestinal transport and metabolism of stavudine (d4T), a nucleoside analogue of thymidine used in the treatment of AIDS, was studied using single-pass intestinal perfusion (SPIP), intestinal brush-border membrane vesicles (BBMV), and mucosal homogenates in rats and rabbits. In the SPIP, d4T demonstrated concentration-dependent mean wall permeability ( P * w ) at perfusate concentrations ranging from 0.001 to 25 mM. In coperfusion studies using 0.1 mM thymidine, 1 mM formycin B, or 5 μM NBTI as putative inhibitors of d4T transport, the P * w of 5 μM d4T was reduced to 48%, 62%, and 70% of the control value, respectively, suggesting the involvement of multiple nucleoside carriers in the intestinal uptake of d4T. d4T uptake in rat BBMV was significantly greater in the presence of a sodium ion gradient compared with a sodium-free (choline) gradient. The permeability of d4T, in the presence of a sodium gradient, was concentration-dependent and inhibited by 10 mM thymidine but not significantly reduced by 10 mM formycin B. In the presence of 10 μM NBTI, the permeability of d4T was not inhibited; however, the binding of d4T to rat and rabbit BBMV was significantly reduced. Formycin B did not significantly reduce the d4T uptake in rat or rabbit BBMV suggesting that d4T does not interact with the purine-selective N1 nucleoside carrier. However, because formycin B inhibited d4T uptake in the SPIP and since d4T inhibited formycin B uptake in rat but not rabbit BBMV, it appears to interact with the N3 carrier which has been demonstrated in rat but not rabbit intestine. Also, an interaction with the sodium-independent facilitative transporter at the basolateral membrane cannot be ruled out. The low hybrid K m and high passive permeability of d4T likely account for the lack of saturable absorption behavior observed in humans, whereas the brush-border and intracellular stability of d4T preserve the high bioavailability observed after oral dosing.
The spiritual health of veterans with a history of suicide ideation

Introduction: In recent years, considerable empirical attention has been devoted to examining the increased risk of suicide observed in some Veteran populations. This has led to a renewed focus on developing novel support options which can be used to respond to Veterans in distress, reducing their risk of suicide. Spirituality and religion, however, have been largely absent from any public discourse related to suicide prevention, not least of all in Veteran populations. Aim: The aim of this cross-sectional study is to compare the self-rated spiritual health of Veterans with and without suicide ideation. Identifying differences which may exist between these two groups could highlight the relevance of spiritual well-being to Veteran suicide prevention efforts. Materials and Methods: Data were collected using pencil-and-paper surveys, called Spiritual Assessments, distributed within the general population of in- and outpatients at a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Using Likert-type scales, this study examines the self-rated spiritual health, spiritual devotion, and significance ascribed to spirituality in a sample of 5378 Veterans. Statistical analysis took place using chi-squared to examine differences in the distribution of responses between ideators and non-ideators. Results: Ideators significantly more often rated their spiritual health as worse than that of non-ideators. Even with similar levels of spiritual devotion or significance ascribed to spiritual life, ideators continued to significantly more often rate their spiritual health as worse than that of non-ideators. Conclusion: The results show that Veterans with suicide ideation more often rate their spiritual health as worse than that of Veterans without suicide ideation. This suggests that spiritual well-being may indeed be relevant to suicide prevention efforts in Veteran populations.
Loss of Smad3 modulates wound healing.

Abstract TGF-β plays a central and critical role in tissue repair. The recent identification of TGF-β signal transduction pathways involving Smad proteins has now made it possible to explore their contribution to the activities of TGF-β in vivo. Both Smad3 and its closely related homolog Smad2 act as latent nuclear transcriptional activators and mediate intracellular signaling by TGF-βs and activin, each of which regulates cellular functions pivotal to cutaneous wound healing. Mice null for Smad3 (Smad3 ex8/ex8 ) survive into adulthood and show accelerated cutaneous wound healing characterized by an increased rate of re-epithelialization and a reduced local inflammatory infiltrate. These data implicate Smad3 in specific pathways of tissue repair and suggest that it could be a target for the development of therapeutic strategies to modulate wound healing.
The Semantic Web—Its Role As an Aid to Data Integration

In the last several issues of this journal we have discussed Tim Berners-Lee's proposal for a new markup language used for World Wide Web pages. Berners-Lee, the creator of the existing World Wide ...
β-catenin: a key mediator of Wnt signaling

Abstract β-catenin is a pivotal player in the signaling pathway initiated by Wnt proteins, mediators of several developmental processes. β-catenin activity is controlled by a large number of binding partners that affect the stability and the localization of β-catenin and is thereby able to participate in such varying processes as gene expression and cell adhesion. Activating mutations in β-catenin and in components regulating its stability can contribute to the formation of certain tumors.
A study on phytotoxicity of alantolactone

Abstract The phytotoxic action of alantolactone was evident by its inhibitory effects on seed germination, seedling growth, rate of respiration, and degradation of starch and proteins in mung beans (Phaseolus mungo L.). Some amino acids, bases of nucleic acids, and gibberellic acid partially alleviated the alantolactone-induced inhibition of the seed germination.
Modifications and extensions of the sequential gradient-restoration algorithm for optimal control theory☆

Abstract In Ref. 1, the sequential gradient-restoration algorithm for minimizing a functional subject to certain differential equations and boundary conditions was developed. This algorithm, here called Algorithm (α), includes the alternate succession of gradient phases and restoration phases. In the gradient phase, the first-order change of the functional is minimized subject to the linearized differential equations, the linearized boundary conditions and a quadratic constraint on the variations of the control and the parameter. In the restoration phase, the differential equations and the boundary conditions are restored to a predetermined degree of accuracy, subject to the least-square change of the control and the parameter. In this paper, several modifications and extensions of Algorithm (α) are studied. In parameter is modified by the inclusion of two positive-definite weighting matrices W1(t) and W2. In Algorithm (γ), an intermediate phase is interposed between the gradient phase and the restoration phase of Algorithm (α); in this intermediate phase, the control is reset at that value which minimizes the Hamiltonian. In Algorithm (δ), an intermediate phase is interposed between the gradient phase and the restoration phase of Algorithm (β); in this intermediate phase, the control is reset at that value which minimizes the Hamiltonian. Several numerical examples are developed, and it is shown that, if the matrix W1(t) is the matrix of the second derivatives of the Hamiltonian with respect to the control, Algorithm (β) exhibits better convergence characteristics than Algorithm (α). On the other hand, Algorithms (γ) and (δ) are erratic in their behaviour: their convergence characteristics are found to be better or worse than those of Algorithm (α), depending on the particular problem.
A Model of Perceived Risk for Colorectal Cancer Among Japanese Americans

Background. Despite the higher rate of colorectal cancer (CRC) among Japanese Americans, little is known about their risk perceptions. The objective of this study was to test an exploratory model explaining psychosocial pathways to perceived risk of CRC. Methods. The postulated model was tested using path analysis with data from a random sample of 306 Japanese Americans aged 30 and older. Results. The model fit the data very well: χ2 10 = 10.22, P = .42; goodness-of-fit index = .993; comparative fit index = .999; and root mean square are of approximation = .008. Cancer fear exerted the strongest effect on perceived risk followed by family history. Conclusions. Risk communication for Japanese Americans should be tailored to individual emotional patterns associated with cancer to alleviate fear that may impede accurate risk self-assessment.
Non-Scarring Method Of Treatment Of Superficial Blood Vessel Malformations Using The Argon And Argon Tuneable Dye Lasers

Abstract only Non -scarring method of treatment of superficial blood vesselmalformations using the argon and argon tuneable dye lasersA. ScheibnerUniversity of California, Irvine, Department of Surgery1002 Health Sciences Road East, Irvine, California 92715ABSTRACTLasers are an accepted modality in the treatment of varioussuperficial blood vessel malformations. Unfortunately use of thecontinuous wave lasers such as the argon and argon tunable dye lasershas been limited by the associated risk of scarring which ranges fromfive to thirty percent. The risk of scarring is greater in peoplewith fine skin such as that in children and in certain more delicatebody sites such as the upper lip and extremities. The extremities area particularly difficult site to treat being more susceptible to scarring. Using the method of small spot size and microsurgical approach tovascular lesions, skin surface temperature changes can be limited,thus restricting tissue damage to the offending blood vessels; thegoal being to coagulate blood vessels without damaging the overlyingand surrounding epidermis, thereby avoiding scarring.Utilizing this method I have tested some eight- hundred patientswith portwine birthmarks of the face, trunk and extremities rangingfrom one to seventy -nine years of age. Complete removal was possiblein some ten percent of adults. Preliminary studies suggest that thisis considerably higher in children. All but 0 -5% of patients hadimprovement ranging from slight in some ten percent to almost completeremoval in over forty percent of patients. Significantly, skintexture returned to normal in all patients within one to ten weeks oftreatment, depending on the energy densities used and sensitivity ofthe patient's skin. Five patients developed hypopigmentation;otherwise skin pigmentation returned to normal.Other advantages of the method is that no anesthesia is required inadults, children are treated under light sedation and the aftercare is
Catalytic activity of human indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (hIDO1) at low oxygen.

A cytokine-inducible extrahepatic human indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (hIDO1) catalyzes the first step of the kynurenine pathway. Immunosuppressive activity of hIDO1 in tumor cells weakens host T-cell immunity, contributing to the progression of cancer. Here we report on enzyme kinetics and catalytic mechanism of hIDO1, studied at varied levels of dioxygen (O2) and l-tryptophan (l-Trp). Using a cytochrome b5-based activating system, we measured the initial rates of O2 decay with a Clark-type oxygen electrode at physiologically-relevant levels of both substrates. Kinetics was also studied in the presence of two substrate analogs: 1-methyl-l-tryptophan and norharmane. Quantitative analysis supports a steady-state rather than a rapid equilibrium kinetic mechanism, where the rates of individual pathways, leading to a ternary complex, are significantly different, and the overall rate of catalysis depends on contributions of both routes. One path, where O2 binds to ferrous hIDO1 first, is faster than the second route, which starts with the binding of l-Trp. However, l-Trp complexation with free ferrous hIDO1 is more rapid than that of O2. As the level of l-Trp increases, the slower route becomes a significant contributor to the overall rate, resulting in observed substrate inhibition.
Living on the edge of chaos: population dynamics of fennoscandian voles

Although ecologists were among the first scientists to study the implications of chaotic dynamics, there is still no widely accepted example of chaos in a field population. If current developments in nonlinear dynamics are to be of relevance to population ecology, however, it is necessary to determine whether chaos occurs in nature. Here we bring together two lines of evidence suggesting that the dynamics of vole populations in northern Fennoscandia may be chaotic: nonlinear analysis of time-series data, and a model based on biological mechanisms. We review how a mechanistic population model can be used to produce short-term population forecasts, even when one of the species is not observed, and then use this benchmark of model accuracy to support our choice of a mechanistic population model for vole dynamics. By adjusting model parameters to optimize the forecasting accuracy on the vole time series, we can obtain parameter estimates for the model. In tests on simulated data, this new approach to parameter estimation for stochastic dynamic models yields parameter estimates such that the fitted model produces dynamics qualitatively and quantitatively similar to those observed. However, some parameters are poorly identified (i.e., many different parameter combinations yield nearly identical model dynamics). For the best-fit parameters, the model dynamics are characterized by quasi-chaotic behavior; the global Lyapunov exponent is very close to (and statistically undistinguishable from) zero, but the median local Lyapunov exponent is significantly positive. Our findings of recurrent short-term chaos suggest that vole dynamics in northern Fennoscandia are characterized by a blend of order and irregularity. The irregularity is the same type as would occur in a noisy chaotic system (i.e., exogenous noise amplification by sensitive dependence on initial conditions) but only occurs during specific portions of the oscillation.
Morphing Aircraft Systems: Historical Perspectives and Future Challenges

The term ‘morphing aircraft’ describes a broad range of air vehicles and vehicle components that adapt to planned and unplanned multipoint mission requirements. Adaptation or morphing requires changing system features including vehicle ‘states,’ such as vehicle shape, during in-flight operation. The term morphing can be applied to almost any activity in which in-flight vehicle features are changed. As such, morphing has become a buzzword loosely applied to a wide variety of activities, some of which are disconnected from air vehicle morphing development. This has led to three myths: 1) morphing shape change is too expensive, 2) morphing aircraft must weigh more than nonmorphing aircraft, and 3) morphing requires exotic materials and complex systems. This paper attempts to dispel these myths by reviewing early morphing aircraft history to identify inventions and innovations that led to both successes and failures. The review also discusses recent government-sponsored activities in the United States: in par...
Detection of off-normal images for NIF automatic alignment

One of the major purposes of National Ignition Facility at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is to accurately focus 192 high energy laser beams on a nanoscale (mm) fusion target at the precise location and time. The automatic alignment system developed for NIF is used to align the beams in order to achieve the required focusing effect. However, if a distorted image is inadvertently created by a faulty camera shutter or some other opto-mechanical malfunction, the resulting image termed ''off-normal'' must be detected and rejected before further alignment processing occurs. Thus the off-normal processor acts as a preprocessor to automatic alignment image processing. In this work, we discuss the development of an ''off-normal'' pre-processor capable of rapidly detecting the off-normal images and performing the rejection. Wide variety of off-normal images for each loop is used to develop the criterion for rejections accurately.
Consciousness in action

A phenomenology of action is outlined, analyzing the structure of volition, kinesthesis, and perception in the experience of action, and, finally, the experience of embodiment in action. The intentionality of action is contrasted with that of thought and perception in regard to the role of the body, and the relations between an action, the experience of acting, and the context of the action are specified.
Ataxia with oculomotor apraxia type 2 fibroblasts exhibit increased susceptibility to oxidative DNA damage

Ataxia with oculomotor apraxia type 2 (AOA2) is an autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxia associated with mutations in SETX, which encodes the senataxin protein, a DNA/RNA helicase. We describe the clinical phenotype and molecular characterization of a Colombian AOA2 patient who is compound heterozygous for a c.994 C>T (p.R332W) missense mutation in exon 7 and a c.6848_6851delCAGA (p.T2283KfsX32) frameshift deletion in SETX exon 21. Immunocytochemistry of patient-derived fibroblasts revealed a normal cellular distribution of the senataxin protein, suggesting that these mutations do not lead to loss or mis-localization of the protein, but rather that aberrant function of senataxin underlies the disease pathogenesis. Furthermore, we used the alkaline comet assay to demonstrate that patient-derived fibroblast cells exhibit an increased susceptibility to oxidative DNA damage. This assay provides a novel and additional means to establish pathogenicity of SETX mutations.
Food habits and dietary intake of schoolchildren in Estonia

The social and economic changes which have taken place in Estonia in the early 1990s may have an impact on the dietary habits and nutrient intake of children. This first report is a comprehensive survey focusing on the diet of pubertal children - the period of most rapid growth after infancy. A school-based cross-sectional dietary study, using food frequency questionnaires and 48-hour recalls, was performed in five Estonian counties. The sample consisted of 562 randomly-selected 12- and 15-year-old rural and urban children, 34 1 of whom answered the 48-hour recall interview. The mean daily energy intake was 10.2-1 1.2 MJ in urban and 8.5-9.2 MJ in rural boys and 7.9-8.6 MJ in urban girls compared with 7.6-8.6 MJ in rural girls. Fat accounted for 36-38%, protein for 12-14% and carbohydrates for 49-52% of the total energy intake. The mean intakes of saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids comprised 13- 15%, 11 - 14% and 6- 8% of daily energy intake, respectively. The mean intakes of vitamins C and D and the minerals calcium and zinc were below the current Estonian recommendations for both girls and boys. The mean iron intake of girls was 20% lower than national recommendations. Cereal products were the most important food group, providing the main source of energy, protein, carbohydrates and iron. The requirements for most vitamins and minerals meet the national recommendations, except for iron in girls. Obesity is not a significant problem in these age groups.
Surface melting of clusters and implications for bulk matter

Surface melting on clusters is investigated by a combination of analytic modeling and computer simulation. Homogeneous argonlike clusters bound by Lennard-Jones forces and Cu-like clusters bound by ``embedded-atom'' potentials are the systems considered. Molecular-dynamics calculations have been carried out for clusters with 40--147 atoms. Well below the bulk melting temperature, the surfaces become very soft, exhibiting well-defined diffusion constants even while the cores remain nearly rigid and solidlike. The simulations, particularly animations, of atomic motion reveal that the surface melting is associated not with amorphous, random surface structures in constant, irregular motion, but rather with large-amplitude, organized, collective motion of most of the surface atoms accompanied by a few detached atoms (``floaters'') and holes. At any time, a few of the surface atoms are out of the surface layer, leaving vacancies; these promoted particles wander diffusively, the holes also but less so; the floaters occasionally exchange with atoms in the surface layer. This result is the basis for an analytic, statistical model. The caloric curves, particularly the latent heats, together with the results from an analytical model, show that surface melting of clusters is a ``phase change'' different from the homogeneous melting of clusters.
Expanded newborn screening in Europe 2007

By January 2007 seven European countries had expanded, and more are considering the expansion of their newborn screening programmes by inclusion of ESI tandem mass spectrometry. We present an overview of the current status of expanded newborn screening programmes in Europe. While the first pilot programmes were initiated in 1998 in Germany, most countries started within the last 3 years. The number of disorders screened for by MS/MS ranges from two disorders (phenylketonuria and medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency) in some countries to 20 in others. The number of live births investigated per screening centre varies from 18 000 to 77 000. Few programmes have reported the number of positively identified cases and technical data, although many participate in quality assurance and proficiency test schemes. Given the relatively common genetic background of most European populations and similar health care systems, the reasons for the differences observed appear arbitrary and contrary to the optimal benefit of this important preventive health measure. Harmonization of disease screening panels, spectrum of metabolites analysed, sizes of screening laboratories, analytical procedures, follow-up management and proficiency and quality testing is urgently warranted on the European level. This will hopefully occur before screening by novel applications of tandem mass spectrometry for additional groups of disorders including lysosomal storage disorders and X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy are implemented.
An integrated assessment of location-dependent scaling for microalgae biofuel production facilities

Abstract Successful development of a large-scale microalgae-based biofuels industry requires comprehensive analysis and understanding of the feedstock supply chain—from facility siting and design through processing and upgrading of the feedstock to a fuel product. The evolution from pilot-scale production facilities to energy-scale operations presents many multi-disciplinary challenges, including a sustainable supply of water and nutrients, operational and infrastructure logistics, and economic competitiveness with petroleum-based fuels. These challenges are partially addressed by applying the Integrated Assessment Framework (IAF) – an integrated multi-scale modeling, analysis, and data management suite – to address key issues in developing and operating an open-pond microalgae production facility. This is done by analyzing how variability and uncertainty over space and through time affect feedstock production rates, and determining the site-specific “optimum” facility scale to minimize capital and operational expenses. This approach explicitly and systematically assesses the interdependence of biofuel production potential, associated resource requirements, and production system design trade-offs. To provide a baseline analysis, the IAF was applied to a set of sites in the southeastern U.S. with the potential to cumulatively produce 5 billion gallons per year. The results indicate costs can be reduced by scaling downstream processing capabilities to fit site-specific growing conditions, available and economically viable resources, and specific microalgal strains.
MR imaging of the knee.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the modality of choice for the imaging evaluation of the knee. Moreover, advances in magnetic field strength, gradient strength, and coil design have facilitated the development of new pulse sequences, which have transformed knee MRI from routine morphologic imaging to metabolic imaging and imaging of ultrastructure. This article will review MRI of meniscal injury and anterior cruciate ligament injury, as well as new developments in MRI of the knee such as 3 T imaging and techniques for cartilage imaging such as T2 mapping, T1n, and delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI of cartilage.
Asthma across the ages: Knowledge gaps in childhood asthma

The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development convened an Asthma Group in response to the Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act. The overall goal of the Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act Program is to improve pediatric therapeutics through preclinical and clinical drug trials that lead to drug-labeling changes. Although significant advances have been made in the understanding and management of asthma in adults with appropriately labeled medications, less information is available on the management of asthma in children. Indeed, many medications are inadequately labeled for use in children. In general, the younger the child, the less information there is available to guide clinicians. Because asthma often begins in early childhood, it is incumbent on us to continue to address the primary questions raised in this review and carefully evaluate the medications used to manage asthma in children. Meanwhile, continued efforts should be made in defining effective strategies that reduce the risk of exacerbations. If the areas of defined need are addressed in the coming years, namely prevention of exacerbations and progression of disease, as well as primary intervention, we will see continuing reduction in asthma mortality and morbidity along with improved quality of life for children with asthma.
Determination of metal-hydroxide bond energies in doubly charged scandium hydroxide, iron hydroxide, and cobalt hydroxide ions

Bond dissociation energies of the metal hydroxide dications of Sc, Fe, and Co have been obtained through charge stripping of ions produced by fast atom bombardment. The reactions for fragmentation of the doubly charged transition metal complexes FeOH 2+ and CoOH 2+ to produce M + +OH + are exothermic by 0.6±0.5 and 2.2±0.5 eV, respectively. For ScOH 2+ , the corresponding reaction is endothermic by 4.9±0.3 eV
Preparation of Tungsten Bronze Nanowires

Two simple techniques to prepare tungsten bronze nanowires are reported in this paper. Tungsten bronze nanowires with a diameter of less than 100nm and a length of more than 10 μm have been successfully prepared by employing these techniques. A Vapor-Liquid-Solid (VLS) mechanism has been proposed to explain the growth of these tungsten bronze nanowires.
Subcellular distribution of tissue radiocopper following intravenous administration of 67Cu-labeled Cu-PTSM

Abstract The subcellular distribution of radiocopper in the brain and liver of rats has been determined following i.v. administration of Cu-PTSM, pyruvaldehyde bis( N 4 -methylthiosemicarbazonato)copper(II), labeled with copper-67. Homogenized tissue samples were separated by differential centrifugation into four subcellular fractions: (I) cell membrane + nuclei; (II) mitochondria; (III) microsomes; and (IV) cell cytosol. Upon sacrifice at 10 min post-Cu-PTSM injection, brain fractions, I, II, III and IV contain 35 ± 12, 11 ± 3, 2.8 ± 1.3 and 51 ± 7% of brain activity, respectively ( n = 4). In animals sacrificed 24 h post-injection the subcellular fractions of brain tissue show little change from the radiocopper distribution seen at 10 min post-injection, although the mitochondrial fraction may contain slightly more tracer and the cytosolic fraction slightly less (I, 40 ± 10%; II, 18 ± 5%; III, 3.4 ± 1.5%; and IV, 38 ± 5%; n = 5). Subcellular fractions I, II, III and IV of liver contain 25 ± 5, 12 ± 3, 17 ± 4 and 46 ± 6% of 67 Cu tracer in animals sacrificed 10 min post-Cu-PTSM injection. An identical subcellular distribution of 67 Cu, was found in the liver following i.v. administration of ionic radiocopper (as Cu-citrate). The liver and brain cytosolic fractions at 10 min post-injection were further separated by Sephadex column chromatography. In liver cytosol, three different radiocopper components with molecular weights of about 140,000, 41,000–46,000 and 10,000–16,000 Da were found. In the brain supernatant fraction, most of the radiocopper was bound to a single low molecular weight cytosolic component (14,000–16,000 Da). These results suggest that the intracellular decomposition of tracer Cu-PTSM may result in the radiocopper entering the normal cellular pools for copper ions.
Representing sainthood in india: sikh and hindu visions of namdev

This article examines representations of the poet-saint Namdev in Indian popular art. Posters and calendars are the key mode of religious visual expression in India today, and are the locus of ongo...
An explicit classification of three-stage Postnikov towers

The problems of classifying Hurewicz fibrations whose fibres have just two non-zero homotopy groups and classifying 3-stage Postnikov towers are substantially equivalent. We investigate the case where the fibres have the homotopy type of K(G,m)×K(H,n), for 1 < m < n. Our solution uses a classifying space M∞, i.e. a mapping space whose underlying set consists of all null homotopic maps from individual fibres of the path fibration PK(G,m+ 1) → K(G,m+ 1) to the space K(H,n+ 1), and the group E(K(G,m)×K(H,n)) of based homotopy classes of based self-homotopy equivalences of K(G,m)×K(H,n). If B is a given space, then a group action E(K(G,m)×K(H,n))× [B,M∞] → [B,M∞] is defined, and the orbit set [B,M∞] / E(K(G,m)×K(H,n)) is shown to classify the above fibrations over B up to fibrewise homotopy type. Our explicit definitions of the classifying spaces, together with our computationally effective group actions, are advantageous for computations and further developments. Two stable range simplifications are given here, together with a classification result for cases where B is a product of spheres. Dedicated to L. Gaunce Lewis, Jr (1949–2006) The author would like to express his appreciation of the advice, concerning this paper, that was given by Gaunce Lewis. It included detailed comments concerning the presentation and restructuring of the material, and a helpful suggestion concerning future developments. This was done at a time when Gaunce was well aware of the seriousness and immediacy of the health problems that he faced. It is but one example of his helpfulness, kindness and generosity. Received July 20, 2005, revised August 22, 2006; published on September 27, 2006. 2000 Mathematics Subject Classification: 55R15, 55R35, 55S45, 55P20.
Acute Type A Aortic Dissection: Surgical Intervention for All: CON

This article considers the role for interval or permanent medical therapy for specific groups of acute type A aortic dissection patients. These include patients with extremely advanced age or prohibitive comorbidities, realized stroke, prior aortic valve replacement, and those who have already survived several days after onset of symptoms. This consideration represents a "back to the future" paradigm shift reminiscent of the earliest recommendations before surgical therapy was feasible or safe.
Modern sediment accumulation and strata formation on the Amazon continental shelf

Abstract Formation of fine-scale ( cm ) strata on the Amazon continental shelf was investigated using radiographic and radiochemical (e.g. 210Pb) techniques. Three distinct sedimentary environments are found within the inner shelf ( m water depth) mud deposit: (1) interbedded mud and sand in a corridor extending from the river mouth across the inner shelf; (2) faintly laminated muds on both flanks of the corridor; and (3) bioturbated muds comprising the remainder of the deposit. High rates of sediment accumulation ( > 2 cm / yr ) are found in the region of interbedded mud and sand, and in the regions of faintly laminated muds. Accumulation rates in the region of bioturbated muds are relatively low (0.1–2 cm/yr), and an inverse relationship is observed between accumulation rate and extent of sedimentary structure alteration by benthic fauna. A first-order sediment budget indicates that sediment accumulation on the Amazon shelf (between the Brazil-French Guiana border and the Para River) is nearly equal to estimates of sediment discharged by the Amazon River ( 9 × 10 8 tons/yr ). The model of Amazon shelf sedimentation most consistent with the radiographic and radiochemical data suggests that the inner shelf mud deposit is a subaqueous delta prograding seaward over relict basal sands and that a turbulent jet emanates from the river mouth with competence (during some flood periods) to carry sand as bedload across the inner shelf. The presence of cross-bedded sands in the corridor of interbedded mud and sand supports the hypothesis of a turbulent jet. The faintly laminated muds probably represent suspended sediment rapidly deposited on both sides of the jet.
Metal Chelates as Therapeutic and Detoxifying Agents in Gas Gangrene.

SummaryIt has been demonstrated that CaEDTA can protect mice against a lethal dose of Cl. perjringens toxin, and guinea pigs against experimental gas gangrene.
Mechanism of All-trans-retinal Toxicity with Implications for Stargardt Disease and Age-related Macular Degeneration

Compromised clearance of all-trans-retinal (atRAL), a component of the retinoid cycle, increases the susceptibility of mouse retina to acute light-induced photoreceptor degeneration. Abca4−/−Rdh8−/− mice featuring defective atRAL clearance were used to examine the one or more underlying molecular mechanisms, because exposure to intense light causes severe photoreceptor degeneration in these animals. Here we report that bright light exposure of Abca4−/−Rdh8−/− mice increased atRAL levels in the retina that induced rapid NADPH oxidase-mediated overproduction of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Moreover, such ROS generation was inhibited by blocking phospholipase C and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-induced Ca2+ release, indicating that activation occurs upstream of NADPH oxidase-mediated ROS generation. Because multiple upstream G protein-coupled receptors can activate phospholipase C, we then tested the effects of antagonists of serotonin 2A (5-HT2AR) and M3-muscarinic (M3R) receptors and found they both protected Abca4−/−Rdh8−/− mouse retinas from light-induced degeneration. Thus, a cascade of signaling events appears to mediate the toxicity of atRAL in light-induced photoreceptor degeneration of Abca4−/−Rdh8−/− mice. A similar mechanism may be operative in human Stargardt disease and age-related macular degeneration.
Static and dynamic function of the lower esophageal sphincter before and after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.

Abstract The means by which fundoplication protects against reflux is disputed. We studied the resting and dynamic features of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and 24-hour pH monitoring in 26 patients before and after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. Resting features were LES pressure, abdominal length, and total length. Dynamic function was assessed by the residual pressure in the LES during a swallow measured as the bolus flowed though the LES. All patients experienced near-total relief of heartburn and all but one had normal postoperative acid scores. Resting LES characteristics were restored to normal. Mean residual pressure on swallowing was 7.1 ± 3.2 mm Hg in the patients postoperatively compared with 1.2 ± 1 mm Hg preoperatively and 4.0 ± 2.4 mm Hg in normal subjects. Eighteen of 26 patients had residual LES pressure within the normal range (
Development of Uphole Monitor for MWD in Underground Directional Drilling in Coalmine

Measurement while drilling (MWD) is the key for underground directional drilling in coalmine. In this paper, an uphole monitor for MWD is developed to process and display downhole measure data. Firstly, an explosion-proof computer is developed, which can be used in explosive gas atmosphere. The flameproof enclosure and intrinsic safe type of protection have been employed to meet the needs of explosion-proof and communication with measure unit. A Windows-based software is subsequently developed to show the measure result and generate the in-seam drilling trajectory. The uphole monitor has been integrated into directional drilling system and demonstrated by the application in China’s coalmines.
Framing the magic

This paper will explore how the aesthetics of the virtual world affects, transforms, and enhances the immersive emotional experience of the user. What we see and what we do upon entering the virtual environment influences our feelings, mental state, physiological changes and sensibility. To create a unique virtual experience the important component to design is the beauty of the virtual world based on the aesthetics of the graphical objects such as textures, models, animation, and special effects. The aesthetic potency of the images that comprise the virtual environment can make the immersive experience much stronger and more compelling. The aesthetic qualities of the virtual world as born out through images and graphics can influence the user's state of mind. Particular changes and effects on the user can be induced through the application of techniques derived from the research fields of psychology, anthropology, biology, color theory, education, art therapy, music, and art history. Many contemporary artists and developers derive much inspiration for their work from their experience with traditional arts such as painting, sculpture, design, architecture and music. This knowledge helps them create a higher quality of images and stereo graphics in the virtual world. The understanding of the close relation between the aesthetic quality of the virtual environment and the resulting human perception is the key to developing an impressive virtual experience.
Spatial analysis of harmonic oscillation of gypsy moth outbreak intensity.

Outbreaks of many forest-defoliating insects are synchronous over broad geographic areas and occur with a period of approximately 10 years. Within the range of the gypsy moth in North America, however, there is consider- able geographic heterogeneity in strength of periodicity and the frequency of outbreaks. Furthermore, gypsy moth out- breaks exhibit two significant periodicities: a dominant period of 8-10 years and a subdominant period of 4- 5 years. In this study, we used a simulation model and spatially referenced time series of outbreak intensity data from the Northeastern United States to show that the bimodal periodicity in the intensity of gypsy moth out- breaks is largely a result of harmonic oscillations in gypsy moth abundance at and above a 4 km 2 scale of resolution. We also used geographically weighted regression models to explore the effects of gypsy moth host-tree abundance on the periodicity of gypsy moths. We found that the strength of 5-year cycles increased relative to the strength of 10-year cycles with increasing host tree abundance. We suggest that this pattern emerges because high host-tree availability enhances the growth rates of gypsy moth populations.