cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Animal ice-binding (antifreeze) proteins and glycolipids: an overview with emphasis on physiological function

Ice-binding proteins (IBPs) assist in subzero tolerance of multiple cold-tolerant organisms: animals, plants, fungi, bacteria etc. IBPs include: (1) antifreeze proteins (AFPs) with high thermal hysteresis antifreeze activity; (2) low thermal hysteresis IBPs; and (3) ice-nucleating proteins (INPs). Several structurally different IBPs have evolved, even within related taxa. Proteins that produce thermal hysteresis inhibit freezing by a non-colligative mechanism, whereby they adsorb onto ice crystals or ice-nucleating surfaces and prevent further growth. This lowers the so-called hysteretic freezing point below the normal equilibrium freezing/melting point, producing a difference between the two, termed thermal hysteresis. True AFPs with high thermal hysteresis are found in freeze-avoiding animals (those that must prevent freezing, as they die if frozen) especially marine fish, insects and other terrestrial arthropods where they function to prevent freezing at temperatures below those commonly experienced by the organism. Low thermal hysteresis IBPs are found in freeze-tolerant organisms (those able to survive extracellular freezing), and function to inhibit recrystallization - a potentially damaging process whereby larger ice crystals grow at the expense of smaller ones - and in some cases, prevent lethal propagation of extracellular ice into the cytoplasm. Ice-nucleator proteins inhibit supercooling and induce freezing in the extracellular fluid at high subzero temperatures in many freeze-tolerant species, thereby allowing them to control the location and temperature of ice nucleation, and the rate of ice growth. Numerous nuances to these functions have evolved. Antifreeze glycolipids with significant thermal hysteresis activity were recently identified in insects, frogs and plants.
Self-approximating transluminal access technique for natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery: a porcine survival study (with video)

Background The ability to access the abdominal cavity though a direct (modified-PEG type) gastric incision to perform natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) has been demonstrated in the literature. However, the optimal technique to access the abdomen remains unknown. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of a transgastric approach to the abdominal cavity through an extended submucosal tunnel. Design Animal feasibility study. Interventions Transgastric endoscopic peritoneoscopy was performed in 7 anesthetized swine, including 2 acute and 5 survival animals. After the creation of a 10-cm to 12-cm tunnel in the gastric submucosal plane, the peritoneal cavity was accessed by needle-knife puncture through the gastric wall near the greater curvature. The peritoneal cavity was examined before the gastric mucosal incision was closed with endoclips. Survival animals were euthanized two weeks after the procedure, and a necropsy was performed. Results The abdominal cavity was successfully entered without complication in all 7 animals. The mucosal incisions were able to be closed by endoscopy. In the survival experiments, all animals recovered and gained weight. Two animals experienced clinically unapparent infectious complications. Limitations Small sample size. Conclusions A peroral transgastric approach to the abdominal cavity through an extended submucosal tunnel is technically feasible and allows safe abdominal access and reliable closure with currently available technology. It has potential benefits as an alternative to direct transgastric access for NOTES procedures.
Testing for True Score Differences Using the Confidence Interval Method

A formula for using confidence intervals in testing statistical significance between two test scores is presented.
The rovibrational intensities of the 2ν 3 band of 12 C 16 O 18 O at 4639 cm -1

Abstract The absolute intensities of transitions in the 2 ν 3 vibrational band of 12 C 16 O 18 O at 4639.5 cm -1 have been measured in natural isotopic abundance; the spectra were obtained with 0.012 cm -1 resolution using the McMath Fourier transform spectrometer of the National Solar Observatory located at Kitt Peak National Observatory. About 70 transitions have been fitted with an rms deviation of approximately 1.5% to obtain the rotationless band strength of S 0 vib =1.442×10 -23 cm molecule -1 at 296 K along with a small first-order Herman–Wallis parameter of A 1 =3.5×10 -5 ; higher order Herman–Wallis parameters could not be determined. The measured line positions, obtained using the CO 2 gas samples in the range of 45–65 Torr at room temperature, confirm the current HITRAN tabulated values. The internal precision of our intensity measurements is very high, and the uncertainty due to possible systematic errors is judged to be less than ±3%.
On the stability of pseudomorphic α-Sn on InSb(001) to temperature and film thickness

Abstract Thin films of α-Sn deposited on InSb(001) at 160°C have been studied. The films, grown to a total thickness of 80 A, showed similar but more pronounced diffraction peaks compared to a monolayer of α-Sn on InSb grown at 30°C. A film of 80 A was shown to change its behaviour at ∼ 181°C. It is believed to collapse to β-Sn imbedded in a thin film of α-Sn.
Low-dose methotrexate treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Long-term observations☆

Of 21 patients with rheumatoid arthritis who began to receive low-dose weekly methotrexate up to five years ago, 15 (71 percent) have continued to take this drug for a mean of 42 months and have received a mean total dose of 2,021 mg (range: 915 to 3,075). The clinical improvement noted at the first follow-up (11 months) was sustained throughout this follow-up period (42 months). Three patients (14 percent) have had complete clinical remission and nine others (43 percent) have had an excellent response. Methotrexate was discontinued in four patients between the first and second follow-up because of planned pregnancy (one), gastrointestinal toxicity (two), and fear of toxicity (one). Liver toxicity assessed in these 21 patients and four others receiving long-term methotrexate therapy revealed acute hepatitis in one and elevated transaminase levels in 12 (48 percent). Liver biopsy specimens in 17 patients after a mean of 1,950 mg of methotrexate (range: 915 to 3,125) revealed mild fibrosis in six and no cirrhosis. Methotrexate can continue to suppress rheumatoid synovitis over a prolonged period of time with minimal toxicity in most patients. Hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis due to methotrexate may be less common in rheumatoid arthritis than has been reported in psoriasis.
STATE-SELECTIVE ELECTRON CAPTURE

We report results from a new atomic physics program using the Argonne PII ECR ion source which is being built as part of the upgrade of the Argonne Tandem-Linear Accelerator (ATLAS). Our initial experiments have been aimed at studying state-selective electron capture in ion-atom collisions using the technique of Photon Emission Spectroscopy. We are extending existing cross section measurements at low energy (<15 keV/amu) to higher energy taking advantage of the fact that the Argonne source is on a 350-kV high-voltage platform. Experiments have included measurements of capture cross sections for O/sup 6 +/ and O/sup 7 +/ on He and H/sub 2/ targets in the energy range from 1-105 keV/amu. We also present uv spectra obtained in collisions of O/sup 6 +/, O/sup 5 +/ and N/sup 5 +/ on a sodium target. 4 refs., 2 figs., 1 tab.
Serine 216 Phosphorylation of Estrogen Receptor α in Neutrophils: Migration and Infiltration into the Mouse Uterus

Background Whereas estrogen receptors are present in immune cells, it is not known if they are phosphorylated to regulate immune cell functions. Here we determined the phosphorylation status of estrogen receptor α (ERα) at residue serine 216 in mouse neutrophils and examined its role in migration and infiltration. Serine 216 is the conserved phosphorylation site within the DNA binding domains found in the majority of nuclear receptors. Methodology/Principal Findings A phospho-peptide antibody specific to phosphorylated serine 216 and ERα KO mice were utilized in immunohistochemistry, double immuno-staining or Western blot to detect phosphorylation of ERα in peripheral blood as well as infiltrating neutrophils in the mouse uterus. Transwell assays were performed to examine migration of neutrophils. An anti-Ly6G antibody identified neutrophils. About 20% of neutrophils expressed phosphorylated ERα at serine 216 in peripheral white blood cells (WBC) from C3H/HeNCrIBR females. Phosphorylation was additively segregated between C3H/HeNCrIBR and C57BL/6 females. Only neutrophils that expressed phosphorylated ERα migrated in Transwell assays as well as infiltrated the mouse uterus during normal estrous cycles. Conclusions/Significance ERα was phosphorylated at serine 216 in about 20% of mouse peripheral blood neutrophils. Only those that express phosphorylated ERα migrate and infiltrate the mouse uterus. This phosphorylation was the first to be characterized in endogenous ERα found in normal tissues and cells. Phosphorylated ERα may have opened a novel research direction for biological roles of phosphorylation in ERα actions and can be developed as a drug target for treatment of immune-related diseases.
FDDNP binding using MR derived cortical surface maps.

Abstract Objectives To assess quantitatively the cortical pattern profile of regional FDDNP binding to beta-amyloid and neurofibrillary tangles on MR derived cortical maps, FDDNP PET images were corrected for movement and partial volume (PV), and optimized for kernel size. Methods FDDNP DVR PET images from 23 subjects (7 with Alzheimer's disease (AD), 6 with mild cognitive impairment and 10 controls) were obtained from Logan analysis using cerebellum as reference. A hemispheric cortical surface model for each subject was extracted from the MRI. The same transformations were applied to the FDDNP DVR PET images to map them into the same space. The cortical map with PV correction was calculated as the ratio of the DVR cortical surface and that of the simulated map, created from the mask derived from MRI and smoothed to the PET resolution. Discriminant analysis was used to order the FDDNP DVR cortical surfaces based on subjects' disease state. Linear regression was used to assess the rate of change of DVR vs. MMSE for each hemispheric cortical surface point. Results The FDDNP DVR cortical surface corrected for movement and PV had less hemispheric asymmetry. Optimal kernel size was determined to be 9 mm. The corrected cortical surface map of FDDNP DVR showed clear spatial pattern that was consistent with the known pathological progression of AD. Conclusion Correcting for movement, PV as well as optimizing kernel size provide sensitive statistical analysis of FDDNP distribution which confirms in the living brain known pathology patterns earlier observed with cognitive decline with brain specimens.
Supercritical fluid chromatographic analysis of the propoxylated glycerol esters of oleic acid

Capillary supercritical fluid chromatographic methods were developed for the separation and quantitation of oligomers of propoxylated glycerols and fatty acid-esterified propoxylated glycerols. Samples containing mole ratios (propylene oxide to glycerol) of 5, 8 and 14 were chromatographed. Separations depended primarily upon the molecular weight or the number of the propylene oxide units. The oligomer distributions in the propoxylated glycerol and the oleic acid-esterified propoxylated glycerol samples were determined.
The Peccei-Quinn mechanism without an axion

Abstract I discuss a model where the strong CP problem is solved by introducing a Peccei-Quinn symmetry, but there is no axion. The model is similar to some variant axion models, however the Peccei-Quinn symmetry is spontaneously broken only by the QCD-induced quark condensate, not by weak-scale physics. There are both an extra light fundamental scalar and a pseudoscalar, with nearly degenerate masses less than ∼ 10 GeV, and rapid decays into light mesons. It is likely that these particles are in the 1–2 GeV range and have been interpreted as hadrons. The hadronic width of the Z is increased by 84 MeV over the standard model width.
Global civil society: Perspectives, initiatives, movements

Abstract This article focuses on the efforts of voluntary associations, rooted in a global consciousness, to address the negative impacts of globalization. In part, this encounter reflects the extent to which globalization has been unfolding in recent years in an ideological climate of neo‐liberalism. As a result, there has been steady downward pressure on the social agenda of governments and international institutions. Globalization‐from‐below represents an overall effort to moderate market logic by reference to the following values embodied in “normative democracy”, a view of democracy that takes account of the emergence of global village realities: consent of affected peoples; rule of law in all arenas of decision; human rights; effective modes of participation; accountability; support for public goods to address basic needs; transparency; and non‐violence as a principle of public order.
Understanding Innovation in Municipal Government: City Council Member Perspectives

Municipal governments have been elevated to a new status in the American federal system due to devolution of federal and state responsibilities to the local level and the widespread recognition that they are the governments most capable of innovative behavior. While we know that local governments are likely to engage in innovation, we do not know what contributes to the perceived success or failure of those innovations. The central focus of this article is to explore the factors that contribute to managerial innovation in municipal governments in Wisconsin, as perceived by council members in their respective communities. Using multiple regression procedures we determine that managerial leadership and policy board-administrative relations explain a significant amount of variation for innovations dealing with privatization, customer service, and strategic planning. We demonstrate that the credibility of executives and board-staff relationships is an important determinant of innovative behavior in local government.
Disulfide Crosslinking Between BK Channel Alpha And Beta1 Subunits In The Membrane Domain

The large-conductance, Ca2+- and voltage-activated potassium channel (BK) alpha subunit is modulated by one of four types of beta subunits, each imparting unique electrophysiological properties. The beta1 subunit is expressed in smooth muscle, where it renders the BK channel sensitive to cytoplasmic calcium in a voltage range near the smooth-muscle resting potential and slows activation and deactivation. Previously, we inferred from the extents of endogenous disulfide bond formation between cysteines substituted in the extracellular flanks of the transmembrane (TM) helices of alpha and of beta1, that the extracellular flank of S0, the unique seventh TM helix of BK alpha, is surrounded on three sides by the extracellular flanks of S1 and S2 and the four-residue, extracellular loop between S3 and S4. We also found that the extracellular flanks of beta1 TM2 and alpha S0 are close and that that the extracellular end of beta1 TM1 is close to the extracellular flanks of both alpha S1 and S2. Within the membrane domain, where presumably there is less flexibility than in the extracellular flanks, we also see endogenous (no added reagents) crosslinking one to two helical turns into the membrane domain. Within the same alpha subunit, Cys-substituted residues in S0 readily form disulfides with Cys-substituted residues in S4, and to a lesser extent with Cys-substituted residues in S3. Also within the membrane domain, we find that cysteines in alpha S0 readily form disulfides with cysteines in beta TM2. Thus, the positions of alpha S0 and of beta1 TM2 relative to alpha S0 are similar in the membrane domain and in the extracellular flanks of these TM helices.Supported by HL081172 and NS054946
An FPGA-based coded excitation system for ultrasonic imaging using a second-order, one-bit sigma-delta modulator

Coded excitation and pulse compression techniques have been used to improve the echo signal-to-noise ratio (eSNR) in ultrasonic imaging. However, most hardware use phase modulated codes over frequency modulated codes because of ease of implementation. In this study, a technique that converts non-binary frequency modulated codes into binary frequency modulated codes is evaluated. To convert from a non-binary to a binary code, a second-order, one-bit sigma delta modulator is used. This sigma-delta modulated code is generated in MATLAB which is then stored in a double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory. A field programmable gate array, which has access to the memory device, transmits the binary waveform and is recorded using an oscilloscope. The recorded data is then filtered using the pulse-echo transducer model of a linear array with a center frequency of 8.4 MHz and a fractional bandwidth of 100% at -6 dB. Pulse compression was then performed using a matched filter, a mismatched filter, and a Wiener filter. Image quality metrics, such as modulation transfer function and sidelobe-to-mainlobe ratio, were used to assess compression performance. Overall, echoes compressed when the excitation is the sigma-delta modulated coded waveform resulted in no measurable difference in axial resolution.
Specific Heat of UOs2 and UOsIr

Abstract The low temperature specific heats of C-15 structure UOs 2 and UOsIR have been measured in order to compare them with the systems NpOs 2 , a ferromagnet with T Curie = 7.9 K , and NpOsIr, newly discovered to be a spin fluctuation system with a specific heat γ of 375 mJ mol −1 K −2 . The uranium compounds, with U—U separations of 3.25 A, less than the Hill limit of 3.4 A, show normal metallic behavior, with γ ( UOs 2 ) = 20 ± 2 mJ mol −1 K −2 and γ ( UOsIr ) = 33 ± 3 mJ mol −1 K −2 .
Tests for linearity of regression involving correlated observations

This paper, the purpose of which is mainly expository, gives an elementary presentation of the effects of correlation of observations on the standard test for linearity of regression amongst a series of measurements on the same subjects, each observed at a number of different #x2018;control#x2019; levels. Subsequent to a review of this problem in the light of the classical linear transformations, an appropriate modification of the usual test is presented.
Oblique convergence between India and Eurasia

[1] Oblique convergence is the general rule along convergent boundaries. Such convergence produces asymmetric deformation (topography) along the collision boundary. To quantify this asymmetry, we develop a method that allows us to calculate the asymmetry in topography with respect to a reference line drawn perpendicular to the collision boundary. The asymmetry in topography is presented as a number, or series of numbers, called here the asymmetry index. A positive asymmetry index indicates that there is more area with topography greater or equal to certain value to the east (right) of the reference line than to the west (left). The asymmetry index is negative for the opposite topography distribution. We use oblique convergent boundary conditions with a thin viscous sheet model to investigate the observed topography along the India-Eurasia collision boundary. The goal of our study is to reproduce the observed asymmetry in the topography (i.e., the high topography in the Tibetan Plateau is shifted to the east). We consider a laterally varying velocity (both magnitude and angle, which we call the angle of obliquity) along this boundary and use a homogeneous lithosphere for Eurasia. With boundary conditions alone we are unable to account for the degree of asymmetry present in the observed topography. The asymmetry in the calculated topography is enhanced by considering a rheologically stronger anomalous zone representing the Tarim basin. The use of a constant velocity (both magnitude and angle) boundary condition, as in earlier studies, produces topographic asymmetry in the opposite direction to the observed topography. This indicates that in the study of obliquely converging boundaries it is important to consider the variation of velocity (magnitude and angle) in the collisional boundary.
Laser Diode Frequency Sweeping Techniques For Fiber Optic Sensors And Systems

The use of frequency ramped (chirped) laser diode sources has increased dramatically through their use in interferometric heterodyne systems, fiber fault location systems, and fiber sensor multiplexing. Frequency chirping is typically achieved via either direct modulation of the device, modulation of the diode's bulk heatsink, or varying the diode's bias current with both methods having advantages and disadvantages. In this paper we present a direct comparison of these methods' chirping performance (sweep linearity and range) on various commercially available laser diodes. Measurements were performed using a high resolution spectrometer system capable of realtime monitoring of the temporal evolution of the spectral response of a laser diode's output. Three dimensional light-current curves were determined and mode instability was investigated. Analysis of the resultant information was used to make some inferences regarding laser diode selection.
Computational modeling of epilepsy for an experimental neurologist

Computational modeling can be a powerful tool for an experimentalist, providing a rigorous mathematical model of the system you are studying. This can be valuable in testing your hypotheses and developing experimental protocols prior to experimenting. This paper reviews models of seizures and epilepsy at different scales, including cellular, network, cortical region, and brain scales by looking at how they have been used in conjunction with experimental data. At each scale, models with different levels of abstraction, the extraction of physiological detail, are presented. Varying levels of detail are necessary in different situations. Physiologically realistic models are valuable surrogates for experimental systems because, unlike in an experiment, every parameter can be changed and every variable can be observed. Abstract models are useful in determining essential parameters of a system, allowing the experimentalist to extract principles that explain the relationship between mechanisms and the behavior of the system. Modeling is becoming easier with the emergence of platforms dedicated to neuronal modeling and databases of models that can be downloaded. Modeling will never be a replacement for animal and clinical experiments, but it should be a starting point in designing experiments and understanding their results.
Hospitalization History and Differences in Self-Rated Pregnancy Risk:

High-risk pregnancies affect a significant number of women each year. Limited information exists on how these women appraise the risk to their pregnancy. This descriptive study of expectant women who were medically categorized as high risk examined differences in women's self-appraisal of risk to themselves and their babies, based on hospitalization history, and differences among risk appraisals made by women and their health care providers. Women who were currently hospitalized had significantly lower self-appraised mother risk scores than both the women who were previously hospitalized and those never hospitalized. Women who were never hospitalized had significantly lower self-appraised baby risk scores than the women in both the currently and previously hospitalized groups. Women who were previously hospitalized scored highest on self-appraised risk to mother and risk to baby. Women reported significantly lower self-appraised risk to mother scores than their nurses.
MOP2 (SLA2) affects the abundance of the plasma membrane H(+)-ATPase of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

The abundance of yeast plasma membrane H(+)-ATPase on the cell surface is tightly regulated. Modifier of pma1 (mop) mutants were isolated as enhancers of the mutant phenotypes of pma1 mutants. mop2 mutations reduce the abundance and activity of Pma1 protein on the plasma membrane without affecting the abundance of other prominent plasma membrane proteins. The MOP2 gene encodes a 108-kDa protein that has previously been identified both as a gene affecting the yeast cytoskeleton (SLA2) (Holtzman, D.A., Yang, S., and Drubin, D. G. (1993) J. Cell Biol. 122, 635-644) and as a gene affecting endocytosis (END4) (Raths, S., Roher, J., Crausaz, F., and Riezman, H. (1993) J. Cell Biol. 120, 55-65). In some strains, MOP2 (SLA2) is essential for cell viability; in others, a deletion mutant is temperature sensitive for growth. mop2 mutations do not reduce the transcription of PMA1 nor do they lead to the accumulation of Pma1 protein in any intracellular compartment. An epitope-tagged MOP2 protein behaves as a plasma membrane-associated protein whose abundance is proportional to its level of gene expression. Over-expression of MOP2 relieved the toxicity caused by the over-expression of PMA1 from a high copy plasmid; conversely, the growth of mop2 strains was inhibited by the presence of a single extra copy of PMA1. We conclude that MOP2 (SLA2) encodes a plasma membrane-associated protein that is required for the accumulation and/or maintenance of plasma membrane H(+)-ATPase on the cell surface.
Retrograde Arterial Perfusion, Not Incision Location, Significantly Increases the Risk of Stroke in Reoperative Mitral Valve Procedures

Background A recent report suggested that a thoracotomy approach for reoperative mitral valve (MV) procedures was associated with an equivalent mortality and an unacceptable risk of stroke. We assessed these outcomes in a single institution's experience. Methods From 1992 through 2007, 905 patients underwent reoperative MV procedures. The approach was a median sternotomy in 612 (67.6%), right anterior thoracotomy in 242 (26.7%), and left posterior thoracotomy in 51 (5.6%). Concomitant procedures in 411 patients (67.6%) included aortic procedures in 189, tricuspid procedures in 170, and coronary artery bypass grafting in 90. Hypothermic fibrillation was used in 65 patients. Logistic analysis was used to analyze risk factors and outcomes. Results Overall mortality was 12.7% (115 of 905), 6.7% (25 of 371) for first time isolated MV reoperations, and 10.1% (50 of 494) for all isolated MV operations. Overall incidence of stroke was 3.8% (34 of 905); 10.9% (9 of 82) with retrograde arterial perfusion and 3.0% (25 of 824) with central aortic cannulation ( p p = 0.15). Risk factors for death were age ( p p p p p = 0.02), and ejection fraction less than 0.30 (OR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.1 to 3.3, p = 0.018). Risk factors for stroke were retrograde perfusion (OR, 4.4; 95% CI, 1.8 to 10.3; p p = 0.09). Conclusions The incidence of stroke in reoperative MV operations is associated with perfusion strategies, not with the incisional approach. Reoperative sternotomy and minithoracotomy with central cannulation are both useful for reoperative MV procedures and are associated with low stroke rates.
Association of warfarin use with valvular and vascular calcification: a review.

Vitamin K is required for the activity of various biologically active proteins in our body. Apart from clotting factors, vitamin K–dependent proteins include regulatory proteins like protein C, protein S, protein Z, osteocalcin, growth arrest-specific gene 6 protein, and matrix Gla protein. Glutamic acid residues in matrix Gla protein are γ-carboxylated by vitamin K–dependent γ-carboxylase, which enables it to inhibit calcification. Warfarin, being a vitamin K antagonist, inhibits this process, and has been associated with calcification in various animal and human studies. Though no specific guidelines are currently available to prevent or treat this less-recognized side effect, discontinuing warfarin and using an alternative anticoagulant seems to be a reasonable option. Newer anticoagulants such as dabigatran and rivaroxaban offer promise as future therapeutic options in such cases. Drugs including statins, alendronate, osteoprotegerin, and vitamin K are currently under study as therapies to prevent or treat warfarin-associated calcification. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.
Gas Hydrate Formation in the Deep Sea: In Situ Experiments with Controlled Release of Methane, Natural Gas, and Carbon Dioxide

We have utilized a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to initiate a program of research into gas hydrate formation in the deep sea by controlled release of hydrocarbon gases and liquid CO2 into natural sea water and marine sediments. Our objectives were to investigate the formation rates and growth patterns of gas hydrates in natural systems and to assess the geochemical stability of the reaction products over time. The novel experimental procedures used the carrying capacity, imaging capability, and control mechanisms of the ROV to transport gas cylinders to depth and to open valves selectively under desired P−T conditions to release the gas either into contained natural sea water or into sediments. In experiments in Monterey Bay, California, at 910 m depth and 3.9 °C water temperature we find hydrate formation to be nearly instantaneous for a variety of gases. In sediments the pattern of hydrate formation is dependent on the pore size, with flooding of the pore spaces in a coarse sand yielding a hydrate ce...
Which measures of physical function and motor impairment best predict quality of life in Parkinson's disease?

Introduction: Our objective was to compare the relative value of elements of the motor system in predicting the physical mobility domain of health related quality of life in patients with Parkinson’s disease in order to specify targets for intervention. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the Parkinson’s disease questionnaire-39 was administered to 263 subjects with Parkinson’s disease to assess health related quality of life. Demographics, motor impairments and physical function were assessed using the Unified Parkinson disease rating scale, 10-m walk test, 6-min walk test, Freezing of gait questionnaire, Timed up & go, functional gait assessment, Berg balance test, functional reach and 9-hole peg test. Results: The results revealed that demographic factors accounted for 19.7% of the variance in Parkinson disease questionnaire-39 mobility score. When motor impairments were added to the model, the bradykinesia composite score contributed a significant portion of the variance (R 2 change ¼ 0.12, p < 0.001). The tremor and rigidity composite scores did not contribute significantly. The Freezing of gait questionnaire was the strongest predictor (R 2 change ¼ 0.23, p < 0.001) of the physical function tests followed by Functional gait assessment (R 2 change ¼ 0.06, p < 0.001) and 6-min walk test (R 2 change ¼ 0.01, p ¼ 0.01). Collectively, 61% of the variance in Parkinson disease questionnaire-39 mobility score and 41.5% of the Parkinson disease questionnaire-39total score was accounted for. Discussion: These results suggest greater value of physical function tests, and not tests of motor impairments, in predicting health related quality of life.
Vegetative Propagation of Napiergrass and Energycane for Biomass Production in the Southeastern United States

With renewed interest in planting large areas to bioenergy crops, improvements in establishment methods are needed. Our objectives were to evaluate propagation methods with stem cuttings of napiergrass (Pennisetum purpureum Schum.), and to determine the optimum planting date for napiergrass and energycane (Saccharum hybrid) in the southeastern Coastal Plain of the United States. A greenhouse study with ‘Merkeron’ napiergrass showed only minor diff erences between horizontal buried planting and vertical planting with one node exposed. However, cuttings taken from the lower portion of the parent stem were superior to younger material from the upper portion. Th e rooting hormone indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) did not aff ect propagation success. Nine napiergrass genotypes were compared for response to cutting length in the fi eld (1, 2, 5, or 10 nodes cutting –1 , with 10 nodes plot –1 ). Single-node cuttings tended to produce more shoots plot –1 initially in the fall, but many of these did not survive the winter. Generally, higher emergence percentages were achieved with 5- and 10-node cuttings. Seven genotypes of napiergrass and two of energycane were compared for response to planting date. Five biweekly plantings were made beginning 17 Sept. 2009, and six plantings beginning 2 Sept. 2010. In 2009 initial fall emergence was greater in earlier plantings, but the following spring, both early and late plantings had similar numbers of shoots cutting –1 , while intermediate plantings had the least. In 2010 there was less variation in fall emergence among planting dates, but the following spring the earliest plantings had more shoots cutting –1 than later plantings.
Asymptotic Theory of the Boltzmann Equation

The precise mathematical relation that the Hilbert and Chapman‐Enskog expansions bear to the manifold of solutions of the Boltzmann equation is described. These expansions yield inherently imprecise descriptions of a gas in terms of macroscopic fluid variables instead of a molecular distribution function. It is shown that these expansions are asymptotic to a very special class of solutions of the Boltzmann equation for sufficiently small mean free path. Next, a generalization of the Hilbert and Chapman‐Enskog expansions is described in terms of extended sets of macroscopic state variables, each governed by partial differential equations similar to those found in fluid dynamics, but sufficiently general to approximate an arbitrary distribution function. The generalized expansions are shown to be asymptotic to quite arbitrary solutions of the Boltzmann equation. It is then shown that the ordinary Hilbert and Chapman‐Enskog expansions can also be made asymptotic to very general solutions of the Boltzmann equation by reinterpreting the variables that enter these expansions as certain well‐defined replacements for the actual fluid state of the gas. In this way the scope of the Euler, Navier‐Stokes, Burnett equations, etc., is greatly extended by interpreting them as governing the artificial variables. Not only are general solutions of the Boltzmann equation shown to be approximated by fluid dynamics (in the limit of small mean free path), but the rapid decay of an arbitrary initial distribution function to a special Hilbert distribution function is also governed by sets of partial differential equations similar to those found in fluid dynamics.
Non-mendelian inheritance of mitochondrial DNA and ribosomal DNA in the myxomycete, Didymium iridis

The inheritance of both the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and the nuclear-encoded extrachromosomal ribosomal DNA (rDNA) has been studied in the myxomycete, Didymium iridis, by DNA-DNA hybridization of labeled probes to total DNA at various stage of the life cycle. Both the mtDNA and rDNA populations rapidly become homogeneous in individuals, but there is a qualitative difference in the patterns of inheritance of these two molecules. One parental rDNA type was preferentially inherited in all crosses; selective replication of this molecule is tentatively proposed as the mechanism of inheritance. In contrast, either parental mtDNA type could be inherited. Since the inherited population of parental mtDNA molecules are not partitioned into cells in this coenocytic organism, no known mechanism of inheritance can explain the rapid and apparently random loss of one parental mtDNA type in individuals.
Spectrographic Determination of Boron in Clay Shales

Cobalt has been found to be an acceptable internal standard for the spectrographic determination of boron in shale. Its use leads to acceptable agreement between spectrochemical and wet-chemical analyses, and has given an average coefficient of varation of ±3.57% for 57 clay samples.
Thoracic complications during urological laparoscopy.

ABSTRACTPurpose: We documented thoracic related complications during urological laparoscopic surgery.Materials and Methods: A total of 1,129 patients underwent major urological laparoscopic procedures in a 5-year period. Operative reports and postoperative radiographic reports were retrospectively reviewed to identify patients with thoracic related medical and surgical sequelae. Of the patients 619 (55%) underwent at least 1 chest x-ray in the immediate or early postoperative period. In the remaining 510 patients (45%) there was no clinical indication to perform chest x-ray.Results: Of 619 patients undergoing chest x-ray 438 (71%) were completely normal. Medical pulmonary complications, surgical thoracic complications and subclinical, incidentally detected gas collections in the chest were identified in 12.6%, 0.5% and 5.5% of patients, respectively. Medical complications in 12.6% of cases included pulmonary infiltrate/atelectasis in 9.7%, pleural effusion in 4.8% and pulmonary embolus in 0.3%. Surgical c...
REQUIREMENT FOR PHOSPHORYLATION OF RNA POLYMERASE II C-TERMINAL DOMAIN IN TRANSCRIPTION IS BOTH TRANSCRIPT LENGTH AND PROMOTER DEPENDENT

RNA polymerase II exists in both phosphorylated and nonphosphorylated forms. The interconversion between these two forms is suggested to be the molecular switch that regulates the transition from transcription initiation to elongation. Here, the ATP analogue H8 is used as a CTD kinase inhibitor to study the role of CTD phosphorylation in transcription with a HeLa nuclear extract in vitro. The results demonstrate that (i) CTD phosphorylation is not required for transcription of the promoter proximal region from TATA containing promoters, (ii) the primary role of CTD phosphorylation is to promote productive elongation, and (iii) the contribution of CTD phosphorylation to transcription differs among TATA containing promoters as well as between TATA less and TATA containing promoters.
pH effects on non-ideal protein size-exclusion chromatography on superose 6

Abstract The retention behavior of five globular proteins (ribonuclease, lysozyme, β-lactoglobulin, serum albumin, γ-globulin) was determined on Superose 6 in low ionic strength (0.02–0.04 M ) mobile phases of high, intermediate and low pH (10.0, 7.0, 4.3). Quantitative assessments of attractive or repulsive solute-packing interactions were made by comparing the chromatographic partition coefficient to the value obtained for non-interacting spherical solutes on the same column. The dependence of this “non-ideal” adsorption or exclusion on net protein charge is complex, but not very sensitive to protein type. The results suggests that on size-exclusion chromatography packings that behave as weak cation-exchange resins the electrostatic solute-packing interaction is not governed by a highly localized set of a few charged sites.
Predictive power of principal components for single-index model and sufficient dimension reduction

In this paper we demonstrate that a higher-ranking principal component of the predictor tends to have a stronger correlation with the response in single index models and sufficient dimension reduction. This tendency holds even though the orientation of the predictor is not designed in any way to be related to the response. This provides a probabilistic explanation of why it is often beneficial to perform regression on principal components—a practice commonly known as principal component regression but whose validity has long been debated. This result is a generalization of earlier results by Li (2007) [19], Artemiou and Li (2009) [2], and Ni (2011) [24], where the same phenomenon was conjectured and rigorously demonstrated for linear regression.
A comparison of fatigue crack formation at holes in 2024-T3 and 2524-T3 aluminum alloy specimens

The purpose of this research was to compare the resistance to the onset of multi-site damage in thin 2024-T3 and 2524-T3 sheet. Aluminum alloy 2524-T3 is a relatively new fuselage skin sheet material that may offer improved performance with respect to the onset of multi-site damage. The alloys were compared on the basis of crack size frequency distributions measured from multi-hole specimens with and without prior corrosion subjected to cyclic loading. The crack size distributions for the pristine bare and alclad sheet showed no significant difference between 2024-T3 and 2524-T3. When prior corrosion is present, however, thin, bare 2524-T3 offers improved resistance to the onset of multi-site damage.
458 BLUNTED PANCREATIC POLYPEPTIDE RESPONSES IN CHILDREN WITH OBESITY OF PRADER-WILLI SYNDROME

Pancreatic polypeptide (PP) has been shown to mitigate the hyperphagia of genetically obese mice. These animals have low concentrations of PP. Patients with Prader-Willi Syndrome (P-W,S) are characterized by obesity and hyperphagia. Serum levels of PP, glucose, insulin and gastroinhibitory polypeptide (GIP) were obtained at 15 min. intervals for 180 min. after a 300 calorie meal in 7 pts with P-W,S and were compared to responses obtained in 10 normal and 13 obese controls. P-W,S had a mean (X) age of 12.3 years (y) (range 7-16Y) and a X body weight (wt) 230% of ideal. Obese controls had a X age of 30.5y (17-44y) and a X body wt 200% of ideal. Normal controls had a X age of 34.ly (19-64y) and X body wt 106% of ideal. Basal and peak responses of glucose, insulin and GIP for pts with P-W,S were slightly but significantly less when compared to normal or obese controls. No significant differences in basal or peak PP responses were noted between normal and obese controls (basal, 103±30 vs 111±19: peak, 561±140 vs 603±107 pg/ml, X ± SE). All 7 pts with P-W,S had abnormal PP responses. Five failed to show significant PP release after the stimulation; one had a peak response to 130 pg/ml while the 7th pt had a supernormal response to > 2000 pg/ml. The 6 pts with low or no response had basal PP values of 62±12 pg/ml and a X peak response of 78±15 pg/ml. This observation of blunted PP response in a human model of hyperphagia and obesity suggests that PP may have a significant role in appetite control.
Guidelines for optimal medical care of persons with Down syndrome

There are numerous clinical conditions observed in persons with Down syndrome, as described above, which should be taken into consideration in the course of their medical care and management. If provided with optimal medical services, pursuing specific evaluations and examinations, with a focus on preventive aspects and fostering well being in all areas of human functioning, the quality of life of individuals with Down syndrome can be enhanced significantly and their contribution to society substantial.
Glial localization of adenylate-cyclase-coupled β-adrenoreceptors in rat forebrain slices

Abstract Fluorocitrate (FC), a selective inhibitor of glial cell respiration, was used to estimate the extent to which glial cells contain adenylate cyclase-coupled β-adrenoreceptors in rat brain slices. The drug blocked 75–95% of the elevation of cyclic AMP caused by the β-agonist, isoproterenol, in the 4 forebrain regions sampled (frontal and parietal cortex, caudate nucleus, olfactory tubercle). Intracellular recording of neurons in the treated slices confirmed that they were unaffected by FC. Treatment with the neurotoxin, kainic acid, eliminated all electrophysiological activity but did not affect the cAMP response. The results indicate that glial cells contain the preponderance of adenylate-cyclase-coupled β-adrenoreceptors in slices of the rat forebrain and may constitute an important target of the central noradrenergic system in vivo.
Safety and efficacy of paediatric outpatient radiofrequency catheter ablations

Abstract Aims Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFA) is a frequently performed procedure as treatment for supraventricular tachycardia in children >4years of age. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the paediatric outpatient RFA procedure. Methods Between 2002 and 2008, 271 RFAs were analyzed. Exclusion criteria for outpatient procedures amongst others were distance to home >1h and anticipated complex RFA in congenital heart disease. All patients underwent pre- and post-procedural echocardiography and electrocardiogram. Patient discharge was within 6h after conclusion of RFA. Parental follow-up phone calls the day after the procedure were performed. All patients were seen in outpatient clinics 1month after RFA. Results A total of 97/271 (37%) patients aged 13.6 (4.8–18.0) years qualified for outpatient RFA. Accessory pathway ablations ( n =50) and atrioventricular node modifications ( n =39) were the most common RFAs. RFA was successful in 94/97 (97%) patients. Post-procedural echocardiography and electrocardiogram did not reveal any RFA related complications. Anaesthetic adverse events, predominantly post-interventional nausea and vomiting, were observed in 10 (10%) patients. Hospital discharge within 6h was practicable in all but one due to ongoing nausea. Follow-up phone calls did not reveal further complications. Recurrence of tachycardia after successful RFA was observed in 6 of 94 (6%) patients and prompted re-intervention in 4. Conclusions Outpatient RFA is feasible and safe in selected paediatric patients. No RFA related complication was observed. Anaesthetic adverse events were nausea and vomiting due to general anaesthesia. Success rate and recurrence rate of tachycardia were favourable after outpatient RFA.
Failure of thromboxane synthetase inhibition to protect the postinfarcted heart against the induction of ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation in a conscious canine model of sudden coronary death.

The role of thromboxane as a contributor to the genesis of ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation was examined in conscious dogs which had been subjected to myocardial infarction. CGS 12970, a thromboxane synthetase inhibitor was administered in a dose of 10 mg/kg (i.v.) every 12 h. Ex vivo thrombin-activated thromboxane synthesis, as determined by assay for thromboxane B2, was reduced to 15% of baseline 2 h after administration of CGS 12970. Drug administration was found to inhibit ex vivo platelet aggregation significantly in response to arachidonic acid, while aggregation to ADP and collagen was unaffected. CGS 12970 did not protect against the induction of ventricular tachycardia by programmed electrical stimulation of the postinfarcted heart. During provocative electrical stimulation, 9 of 11 (82%) animals continued to respond in the post-treatment period with the development of VT. Pretreatment with CGS 12970 failed to prevent the spontaneous development of ventricular fibrillation which occurred in 7 of 10 (70%) animals when a secondary ischemic event was superimposed in the region of the noninfarct-related circumflex coronary artery. The results suggest that the thromboxane synthetase inhibitor, CGS 12970, when administered in the subacute phase of recovery from myocardial infarction, does not protect against the induction of ventricular tachycardia by programmed electrical stimulation or the spontaneous development of ventricular fibrillation in the postinfarcted canine heart. The findings suggest that thromboxane may not serve a critical role in the genesis of ventricular tachyarrhythmias and ventricular fibrillation in the postinfarcted canine heart.