cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tetranuclear manganese carboxylate clusters with imidazole-carboxylate chelating ligands. X-ray crystal structure of the 4-imidazoleacetate complex

Abstract Procedures are described for the synthesis of tetranuclear manganese carboxylate complexes with ligands derived from 4-imidazoleacetic acid (imidacH) and 4-imidazolecarboxylic acid (imidcarbH). Reaction mixtures containing NBun 4imidac or NHexn 4imidcarb generated in situ and either [Mn3O(O2CMe)6(py)3](ClO4) or Mn(O2CR)2, RCO2H (R=Me, Ph) and NR′4MnO4 (R′=Bun, Hexn) give red–brown solutions from which the products (NBun 4)[Mn4O2(O2CR)7(imidac)2] (R=Me (1); R=Ph (2)) and (NHexn 4)[Mn4O2(O2CR)7(imidcarb)2] (R=Me (3); R=Ph (4)) can be obtained. The X-ray crystal structure of 2 reveals that the anion consists of an [Mn4(μ3-O)2]8+ core with the four Mn atoms disposed in a ‘butterfly’ arrangement and the O atoms triply bridging each ‘wing’. Peripheral ligation is provided by seven bridging O2CPh− ligands and two chelating imidac− groups. All available characterization data are consistent with the same core for complexes 1, 3 and 4, with the structures varying only in the peripheral ligation. 1H NMR spectroscopy of all four complexes indicates that the structure is maintained in solution and the majority of the resonances have been assigned on the basis of T1 measurements and substitution and exchange experiments. Cyclic voltammetry reveals the presence of a single quasi-reversible oxidation processes for complexes 1 and 2.
Ethanol Production from Modified and Conventional Dry-Grind Processes Using Different Corn Types

ABSTRACT Different corn types were used to compare ethanol production from the conventional dry-grind process to wet or dry fractionation processes. High oil, dent corn with high starch extractability, dent corn with low starch extractability and waxy corn were selected. In the conventional process, corn was ground using a hammer mill; water was added to produce slurry which was fermented. In the wet fractionation process, corn was soaked in water; germ and pericarp fiber were removed before fermentation. In the dry fractionation process, corn was tempered, degerminated, and passed through a roller mill. Germ and pericarp fiber were separated from the endosperm. Due to removal of germ and pericarp fiber in the fractionation methods, more corn was used in the wet (10%) and dry (15%) fractionation processes than in the conventional process. Water was added to endosperm and the resulting slurry was fermented. Oil, protein, and residual starch in germ were analyzed. Pericarp fiber was analyzed for residual st...
Evaluating neural network reconstruction of wafer profile from electron microscopy

In this paper we apply neural network techniques and physically based models to determine the surface shape of chips from scanning electronic microscopy images. Deducing some specific feature's vertical cross-section within an integrated circuit from 2D top down scanning electron microscope images of the feature surface is a difficult `inverse problem' which arises in semiconductor fabrication. This paper refines our previous work on the reconstruction of semiconductor wafer surface shapes from top down electron microscopy images. One of the approaches we have developed directly maps from the CD-SEM intensity waveforms to line profiles. The other novel method we describe is based on an approximate physical model, where we assume a simplified mathematical representation of the physical process that produces the SEM image from the electron beam's interaction with the feature surface. Our results are illustrated with a variety of real data sets.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Quality of life assessment by community pharmacists: an exploratory study

Implicit in the evolving role of pharmacy is that its practitioners embrace the concept of quality of life (QoL). In recent years there has been an increased interest in incorporating health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measures into clinical practice, primarily focusing on the physician as the user of this information. Pharmacists may be able to use these instruments in their practices to provide better pharmaceutical care. To explore the feasibility of such an undertaking, questionnaires were mailed to a national sample of community pharmacies. In addition to the questionnaire, the respondents were provided with examples of two instruments: the Duke Health Profile and the QOLIE-10. A definition of HRQoL was provided to the respondents. After two mailings and a reminder postcard, a usable response rate of 27.2% was achieved. The results revealed that over 80% of the respondents currently discuss HRQoL issues with their patients. In addition, 66% reported that they attempt to assess the HRQoL of their patients, albeit usually on a subjective, informal basis. After viewing examples of HRQoL instruments, over three-quarters of the respondents reported a willingness to use HRQoL assessment tools in their practices. However, only 53.7% of the respondents were familiar with the concept of HRQoL. Less than 5% reported familiarity with formal instruments. The self-reported knowledge of pharmacists concerning HRQoL was low and the respondents recognized a significant gap between their current knowledge and the level of knowledge needed to assess the HRQoL of their patients formally. The results suggest a possible role for the pharmacist in HRQoL assessment. However, the use of HRQoL instruments in community pharmacies will require further training and education on the part of pharmacists concerning the concept of HRQoL, the issues involved in its measurement and how they can use HRQoL information in their practices. In addition, a number of unanswered questions must be addressed through the research process in order for HRQoL questionnaires to become clinical tools in the practice of pharmacy.
Impact of Clinical and Non-Clinical Factors on the Choice of HER2 Test for Breast Cancer

Evaluation of HER2 status is critical in determining appropriate treatment for breast cancer. Currently, Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) are the FDA-approved tests. Studies show, FISH is superior to IHC in accuracy and prediction of clinical outcomes with respect to response to anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) therapy trastuzumab. The impact of factors on choice of test for HER2 detection was determined using logistic regression. We show that geographic location, cancer stage, and diagnosis date have significant effects on choice of test. These findings indicate that disparities may be present in breast cancer care, and highlight the importance of testing guidelines.
Income Inequality Across Regions Over Time

This paper provides a profile of regional income inequality using a distributional criterion whereby a state's share of total income equals its share of total population. The results for 1929 to 1990 show that inequality persisted among regions with a substantial declining trend up to 1979 and a slight rise thereafter. On the other hand, equality among states within their regions is found to have been the condition since 1929.
How chemistry shifts horizons: element, substance, and the essential

In 1931 eminent chemist Fritz Paneth maintained that the modern notion of “element” is closely related to (and as “metaphysical” as) the concept of element used by the ancients (e.g., Aristotle). On that basis, the element chlorine (properly so-called) is not the elementary substance dichlorine, but rather chlorine as it is in carbon tetrachloride. The fact that pure chemicals are called “substances” in English (and closely related words are so used in other European languages) derives from philosophical compromises made by grammarians in the late Roman Empire (particularly Priscian [fl. ~520 CE]). When the main features of the constitution of isotopes became clear in the first half of the twentieth century, the formal (IUPAC) definition of a “chemical element” was changed. The features that are “essential” to being an element had previously been “transcendental” (“beyond the sphere of consciousness”) but, by the mid-twentieth century the defining characteristics of elements, as such, had come to be understood in detail. This amounts to a shift in a “horizon of invisibility” brought about by progress in chemistry and related sciences. Similarly, chemical insight is relevant to currently-open philosophical problems, such as the status of “the bundle theory” of the coherence of properties in concrete individuals.
Divergent perspectives on water resource sustainability in a public-policy-science context

Abstract Diverging perspectives toward environmental problems, their causes, and solutions can exacerbate controversy in participatory decision making. Past research has examined the lay–expert divide in perceptions about diverse risks, but relatively few studies have examined multidimensional perspectives on water scarcity across expert groups with different knowledge systems. We address this gap by examining conflicting perspectives across ‘lay’ residents and academic and policymaking ‘experts’ in Phoenix, AZ. We analyze ecological concern about water issues, risk perceptions regarding the factors contributing to scarcity, and policy attitudes pertaining to resource management alternatives. All three groups expressed substantial concern for broad-scale water issues, especially drought. Residents exhibited a heightened tendency to blame other people for water scarcity, in addition to opposition toward stringent approaches such as water pricing. While strongly supporting the acquisition of more supplies, policymakers exhibited lower concern about regional water use rates while displacing blame away from anthropogenic causes compared to both residents and academic experts. Scientists, on the other hand, stressed the need for stricter regulation of water demand. Findings point to the challenges of meshing different knowledge systems for collaborative research and policy making.
Performance and applications of the dynamic focus scanning laser imaging system

A multipurpose digital imaging device has been developed for applications in quantitative densitometry, light scatter detection and fluorescence emission measurement. The Scanning Laser Imaging (SLI) device consists of a three-dimensional laser beam controller, a fiber optic faceplate coupler, a specially designed photodetector assembly and a support computer that has interactive control over the beam positioner. Image information is collected as measurement of either total forward light loss, forward direction scattering or fluorescent emission, depending on the nature of the biological target and the configuration of the detection assembly. Signal output from the bulk photodetector is digitized and assigned to the corresponding pixel location illuminated by the laser spot. The target and detector assembly are stationary while the laser spot is scanned in a programmed pattern. Areas up to 16 cm2 are scanned at a rate of 5.1 x iO pixels/s with 12 bits gray level detection range per pixel. Typically, 1024 x 1024 pixels are captured in less than 30 seconds and stored for display, processing or archiving. Spatial resolution for image reconstruction is a function of laser spot size and has been demonstrated to 3 pm. Rescan and arbitrary laser spot positioning is accomplished to within Biological, biophysical, clinical instrumentation and optical and computer engineering applications of this technology are broad. SLI methods have been developed for quantitative densitometric analysis of electrophoretic gels, thin-layer chromatography plates and autoradiographic materials generally used in molecular biology research. These applications are not well suited for conventional scanning densitometry, particularly when translucent materials such as nylon or nitrocellulose transfer membranes are used because of loss in resolution due to scattering. The SLI spatial resolution is not affected significantly by such scatter. Other quantitative analysis such as measurement of immunofluorescent and immunochemical staining of cells from blood samples and tissue sections can be performed with the SLI device. These applications are poorly suited for traditional flow cytometry, which requires dispersal of individual cells from the tissue. In addition to imaging, the SLI device is capable of detecting and analyzing the occurrence of very rare events. It is routinely capable of scanning a large transparent or translucent target, detecting submicron particles and recording the position of the particles to within approximately 1 pm. The system will detect and locate a single submicron particle placed anywhere on a 800 mm2 surface, a task analogous to locating a standard typewritten character placed on a football field, within 30 seconds.
Synthesis and Characterization of β-Cyclodextrin Based Functional Monomers and its Copolymers with N-isopropylacrylamide

Two novel monovinyl β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) monomers are synthesized. Their chemical compositions are characterized by means of element analysis, NMR and FT-IR spectroscopy. The results show that the synthesis techniques used are convenient and efficient. Using N-isopropylacrylamide as a comonomer, two novel linear copolymers can also be synthesized.
Population pharmacokinetics of gentamicin. Use of the nonparametric expectation maximisation (NPEM) algorithm.

A new nonparametric expectation maximisation (NPEM) algorithm for the estimation of population pharmacokinetic parameter values was evaluated. The algorithm, in the form of a personal computer program, was used to compute population pharmacokinetic parameter densities of gentamicin in a group of 9 patients with indicators of malnutrition. The 1-compartment parameter values for clearance (CL), volume of distribution (Vd) and elimination rate constant (k) were compared with values generated using a standard 2-stage (STS) approach. NPEM was used with a full data set (72 gentamicin concentrations) and a sparse data set (only peak and trough concentrations for each patient; 18 in total). There were no differences in parameter value estimations between the STS and NPEM with all the data (p > 0.05) or with the sparse data (p > 0.05).
Identification of a Negative Regulatory Element in the Epstein-Barr Virus Zta Transactivation Domain That Is Regulated by the Cell Cycle Control Factors c-Myc and E2F1

Reactivation in Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is closely associated with a G(0)/G(1) cell cycle arrest which can be induced either by lytic cycle-inducing agents or by the immediate-early gene product Zta. Accumulating evidence shows that in epithelial cells, downregulation of the proto-oncogene, c-myc, plays an important role in lytic cycle-associated cell growth arrest. Here, we provide evidence that c-Myc provides a gatekeeper function to ensure that certain cell cycle inhibitory events have been capitulated prior to full progression into the lytic cycle. Specifically, we show that reconstitution of c-Myc expression during the lytic cycle to levels observed in cycling uninduced cells inhibits the transactivation function of Zta. Nuclear localization studies show that c-Myc does not grossly alter the nuclear localization of Zta or its association with the insoluble nuclear fraction. Enforced expression of another transcription factor that promotes cell cycle progression, E2F1, also inhibits Zta transactivation. Analysis of c-Myc- and E2F1-mediated inhibition of a panel of Zta mutants shows parallel genetics and inhibition maps to a small bipartite sequence located between amino acids 29 and 53 of Zta, containing homology to the proline-rich domain of the tumor suppressor protein p53. Mutation of a conserved tryptophan residue located at amino acid 49 of Zta largely prevents inhibition by both c-Myc and E2F1. These studies identify a negative regulatory element within the Zta activation domain that is regulated by the cell cycle-promoting factors c-Myc and E2F1.
Digital learning: Look, then leap

Massive open online courses can make higher education more accessible, immersive and comprehensive — if they are deployed with due caution, says Michael M. Crow.
Evolution of a HOXB6 intergenic region within the great apes and humans.

Data accumulated over the past decade from several loci suggest that nonhuman primates have a greater amount of intraspecific genetic variation relative to humans. In phylogenetic reconstructions among primates that are based on genetic data, therefore, it becomes essential to adequately sample the population(s) being analyzed. Inadequate sampling may not only underestimate variation within any given population, but such an underestimate may confound any phylogenetic or population-specific conclusions implied by the data. Here we present inter- and intraspecific data on the molecular evolution of an approximately 1.0 kb intergenic HOXB6 sequence among humans, common chimpanzees, pygmy chimpanzees, gorillas and orangutans. To date, this study represents the most comprehensive investigation of a noncoding nuclear locus among the great apes and humans that examines the nature and amount of intraspecific variation in DNA sequences. Not only do these HOXB6 data continue to support earlier findings that Homo sapiens sapiens has less genetic variation than any great ape species (Ruano et al., 1992; Deinard & Kidd, 1995), but they strongly suggest that a high level of genetic polymorphism existed within the common ancestor of the African ape clade (Homo-Pan-Gorilla). Despite detecting two nucleotide substitutions linking Pan and Homo, we caution against concluding that the HOXB6 data definitively support a Homo-Pan clade to the exclusion of Gorilla. Rather, we believe that taking into consideration the level of genetic polymorphism that is likely to have existed within the common ancestor, the most prudent conclusion that can be made from all available data, including morphological, karyotypic and genetic data, may be that speciation among Homo-Pan-Gorilla is best represented by a "trichotomy".
Evaluation of using Course-Management Software

The benefits of course-management software (CMS) will not be realized if it is underused. The authors investigated one possible barrier to CMS use, students' perceptions of using CMS. After taking a course requiring a group research project, college students reported their perceptions of the use of CMS for the course. Overall, students did not perceive any costs. Rather, they had positive impressions of and perceived multiple benefits of using CMS. Students, however, did not report experiencing all possible benefits of CMS. Student use of CMS may be increased if instructors emphasize its benefits.
A Workshop to Teach Medical Students Communication Skills and Clinical Knowledge About End-of-Life Care

We describe a half-day workshop to teach third-year medical students three focused end-of-life care skills: breaking bad news, discussing advance directives, and assessing and managing pain. Our workshop included a readers’ theater exercise and three role-play exercises. In two of the workshops, faculty members played the role of patients. We used readers’ theater to engage the students on an emotional level and set a reflective tone for the workshop. Evaluations reflected that most respondents felt that the workshop enhanced their understanding and ability to address these skills with patients. By 6 months, many students reported applying these skills to patient care in a way they thought was effective.
Comparative advantage of 3-day food records over 24-hour recall and 5-day food frequency validated by observation of 9- and 10-year-old girls

Abstract Objective The validity of the 24-hour recall, 3-day food record, and 5-day food frequency was assessed to decide on a dietary assessment method for the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Growth and Health Study. Design All subjects were assigned to one of three dietary assessment methods. Unobtrusive observers recorded types and amounts of foods eaten during lunch, and these were compared with the foods reported by the girls in the study. Setting School lunchrooms in California and Ohio. Subjects 58 girls, aged 9 and 10 years. Main outcome measures Reporting errors for dietary assessment methods. Statistical analyses performed Descriptive statistics, matched pair t tests, and Spearman correlation coefficients. Results Comparison of the intakes of energy and selected macronutrients showed different ranges of, and median percentage absolute errors for, each dietary assessment method. Percentage absolute errors ranged between 20 and 33 for the 5-day food frequency method; 19 and 39 for the 24-hour recall; and 12 and 22 for the 3-day food record. The proportion of missing foods (ie, observed food items not reported) and phantom foods (ie, reported food items not observed) by each method were 46% and 40%, respectively, for the 5-day food frequency; 30% and 33%, respectively, for the 24-hour recall; and 25% and 10%, respectively, for the 3-day food record. Applications/conclusions Errors in food reporting and quantification can vary with the type of dietary methodology. Agreement between observed and reported intakes from 3-day food records made it the best overall choice. On this basis, it was selected as the method of assessment for the NHLBI Growth and Health Study.
Nonspecific Enzyme-Linked lmmunosorbent Assay for Molds in Foods

A nonspecific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed to detect molds in foods by producing an antibody to a mixture of six common molds, Aspergillus versicolor, Cladosporium herbarum, Fusarium poae, Geotrichum candidum, Mucor circinelloides, and Penicillium chrysogenum. This antibody recognized these mold genera plus 10 others but not yeasts. Mold antigens added into Cheddar and cottage cheeses, fruit juices, nonfat dry milk, raisins, and yogurt could be detected. Molds (10 2 spores/g) inoculated into cottage cheese and yogurt and allowed to grow at 7 or 22°C were detected at 10 3 CFU/g. A nonspecific ELISA could be developed to detect general mold contamination of foods.
Increasing Warfarin Dosage Reductions Associated with Concurrent Warfarin and Repeated Cycles of 5‐Fluorouracil Therapy

Concurrent use of warfarin and 5-fluorouracil has resulted in elevated international normalized ratios (INRs). Although this drug interaction is well established in the literature, we found no documented cases that address its effects on anticoagulation parameters in patients requiring repeated cycles of 5-fluorouracil and continuous warfarin therapy. We describe the effect of multiple cycles of 5-fluorouracil administration in a patient receiving warfarin therapy. The patient's INR increased 11-14 days after each cycle of chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin. In addition, she required additive reductions of 33-42% in her weekly warfarin dose with each chemotherapy cycle to maintain a therapeutic INR (goal range 2.0-3.0). After three cycles of chemotherapy over a 10-week period, the patient's dosage requirements returned to her baseline level (before treatment with 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin had started). Pertinent literature was reviewed to provide supporting evidence for the mechanism and clinical implications of the drug interaction. Based on this report and previous case reports, caution is advised when concurrent warfarin and 5-fluorouracil are prescribed. In addition, patients should be closely monitored for a possible delayed interaction that may occur with each repeated cycle of 5-fluorouracil chemotherapy.
Adhesion molecule expression and regulation on cells of the central nervous system

Abstract Cellular adhesion molecules were initially defined as cell surface structures mediating cell–cell and cell–extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions. Adhesion molecules involved in immune responses have been classified into three families according to their structure: selectins, immunoglobulin (Ig) superfamily, and integrins. It has been well documented that adhesion molecules of these family members (E-selectin, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1) are expressed on brain microvessel endothelial cells in active lesions of multiple sclerosis (MS) brain. In addition, accumulating data show that glial cells can express some of these adhesion molecules upon activation: astrocytes can express ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin, and microglia express ICAM-1 and VCAM-1. In vitro studies show that these adhesion molecules are actively regulated by several cytokines which have relevance to MS or experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). In addition, soluble forms of adhesion molecules have been found in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of MS patients, and may be useful diagnostically. Experimental therapy of EAE using antibodies against several adhesion molecules clearly shows that adhesion molecules are critical for the pathogenesis of EAE. Thus far, the function of adhesion molecule expression on brain endothelial and glial cells has not been clearly elucidated. Studies on the possible role of adhesion molecules on brain endothelial and glial cells will be helpful in understanding their involvement in immune responses in the central nervous system (CNS).
Chromosomal anomalies in atypical adenomatous hyperplasia and carcinoma of the prostate using fluorescence in situ hybridization

Abstract Objectives The genetic alterations of atypical adenomatous hyperplasia (AAH) of the prostate, a possible precursor of prostate adenocarcinoma, have not been previously investigated. Methods We used fluorescence in situ hybridization with centromere-specific probes for chromosomes 7, 8, 10, 12, and Y to evaluate chromosomal anomalies in atypical adenomatous hyperplasia (23 foci) and adenocarcinoma (31 foci) in 19 whole-mount radical prostatectomy specimens. Results Chromosomal anomalies were found in 2 foci (9%) of AAH and 17 foci (55%) of carcinoma. There was no relationship between the chromosomal anomalies in AAH and matched foci of carcinoma. Conclusions These findings indicate that AAH is not obviously linked genetically to prostate cancer, although it occasionally contains chromosomal anomalies.
Comparison of experimental solvent extraction techniques to determine the apparent composition of solvent refined coal

Abstract The apparent composition of Kentucky 9/14 solvent refined coal (SRC) has been determined by two Soxhlet solvent extraction techniques and one ultrasonic bath extraction technique. Each Soxhlet method gave significantly different composition results. Further, neither Soxhlet method gave results which agreed with data from the ambient temperature ultrasonic bath extractions. A third Soxhlet method involving reverse sequential extraction was found to be unsatisfactory for routine quantitative use because of excessive solvent loss and the possibility of sample repolymerization.
Opacity effects on near-resonance-rayleigh scattering in a barium plasma

Abstract Near-resonance-Rayleigh scattering (NRRS) was used to measure the effects of opacity on the resonance transition of Ba + . The plasma is generated by illuminating a barium heat-pipe-oven (Ba vapor density ≳ 10 14 cm −3 ) with a flash-lamp dye-laser pulse (10 5 W/cm 2 ) tuned to the barium resonance transition at 553.5 nm. The Ba + ion is probed with 90° NRRS from an Nd: YAG-pumped dye laser tuned over the line profile of the Ba + resonance transition at 493.4 nm. The influence of the oven temperature, pumping laser-beam size, and probe-laser detuning on the opacity of this transition was investigated. The experimental results indicate a minimum detuning from the Ba + resonance line center to avoid opacity problems in NRRS.
Attachment from Flow of Escherichia coli Bacteria onto Silanized Glass Substrates

We investigate the attachment of Escherichia coli on silanized glass surfaces during flow through a linear channel at flow rates of 0.1-1 mL/min using confocal microscopy. We assemble layers of organosilanes on glass and track the position and orientation of bacteria deposited on these surfaces during flow with high spatial resolution. We find that a metric based on the degree of the surface-tethered motion of bacteria driven by flagella is inversely correlated with deposition rate, whereas conventional surface characterizations, such as surface energy or water contact angle, are uncorrelated. Furthermore, the likelihood that an initially moving bacterium becomes immobilized increases with increasing deposition rate. Our results suggest that the chemistry and arrangement of silane molecules on the surface influence the transition from transient to irreversible attachment by favoring different mechanisms used by bacteria to attach to surfaces.
Self-assembled octadecyltrichlorosilane monolayer formation on a highly hydrated silica film

Abstract A MVD silica layer that consists of a highly hydrated surface favorable for organosilane surface reaction is investigated. The MVD silica layer lacks free surface silanol groups while supporting a more extensive adsorbed water layer as compared to oxidized Si(1 0 0). Octadecyltrichlorosilane monolayers (OTS) deposited on the MVD silica layer are found to follow the same mechanisms of growth and exhibit properties comparable to those formed on oxidized Si(1 0 0) surfaces. The growth process of octadecylsiloxane films is investigated as a function of immersion time and temperature by utilizing ATR-FTIR, ellipsometry, contact angle analysis, and AFM. The MVD silica layer is shown to support an ordered interfacial water structure that is more tightly bound due to a higher degree of hydrogen bonding associated with the hydroxylated surface. The importance of interfacial water on the OTS film formation process is highlighted and the role of free OH groups on the adsorption mechanism is diminished. It is shown that OTS films can be formed on a highly hydrated surface comparable to those formed on oxidized Si(1 0 0) surfaces.
β1-Integrins Partly Mediate Binding of Ovarian Cancer Cells to Peritoneal Mesothelium in Vitro

Ovarian cancer cells frequently metastasize by implanting onto the peritoneal mesothelial surface of the abdominal cavity. Although the CD44 molecule expressed by ovarian cancer cells is known to partly mediate this process, the role of other adhesion proteins such as beta1-integrins has been previously difficult to demonstrate using the 4B4 anti-beta1 neutralizing antibody. In view of the widespread expression of beta1-integrins in ovarian cancer, however, we have further examined the potential role of this class of molecules in ovarian cancer cell implantation through the use of an alternative anti-beta1 neutralizing antibody, MAB13. We now report that MAB13 is capable of inhibiting the binding of three separate human ovarian cancer cell lines (36M2, CAOV-3, SKOV-3) to mesothelium (mean 37 +/- 4% inhibition, n = 21, P < 0.001). An additive inhibitory effect was observed when MAB13 was combined with anti-CD44 antibody (clone 515) (mean 63 +/- 3% inhibition, n = 19, P < 0.001), suggesting that binding occurs through two independent pathways involving both beta1-integrins and CD44. Because fibronectin is an extracellular matrix ligand recognized by many types of integrins and is abundantly expressed on mesothelial cells, the inhibitory effects of MAB13 and 4B4 on ovarian cancer cell binding to fibronectin were directly compared. MAB13 inhibited ovarian cancer cell binding to fibronectin to a significantly greater degree than did 4B4, suggesting that the discordant effects of these two antibodies on mesothelial adhesion may be partly related to their differential ability to neutralizing fibronectin-mediated binding. Studies using anti-alpha5 neutralizing antibody demonstrated that the alpha5beta1 fibronectin receptor contributes to approximately 50% of integrin-mediated binding of 36M2 and CAOV-3 cells (which express the alpha5 chain in 54 and 58% of cells, respectively). Since the RGD sequence of fibronectin is a known recognition site for many types of integrins, including alpha5beta1 and alphanubeta3, we performed binding in the continued presence of both anti-alpha5 and RGD peptide in order to exclude other types of fibronectin-integrin interactions. The addition of RGD peptides at concentrations known to be capable of blocking fibronectin binding resulted in no additional inhibitory effect over that observed with anti-alpha5 antibody alone, suggesting that alpha5beta1 was the major receptor responsible for fibronectin-mediated ovarian cancer binding to mesothelium. These data demonstrate that ovarian cancer cell binding to peritoneal mesothelium is mediated by several adhesion pathways and that simultaneous inhibition of both beta1-integrin and CD44 function may be necessary in order to significantly limit the intraabdominal spread of this tumor in vivo.
Left Lobe Liver Transplants

Despite its vast potential, concerns about donor safety continue to limit the expansion of living-donor liver transplantation (LDLT) in Western countries. In light of the technical refinements, relatively lower risk of complications with left lobe (LL) LDLT with comparable outcomes, and the overriding concern for donor safety, there is renewed interest in using LL allograft as the first choice for LDLT; thereby, fundamentally shifting the risks of LDLT from the donor to the recipient. There is ample evidence that LL LDLT when performed with graft inflow modification where indicated, has long-term outcomes as good as cadaveric LT.
Soil Organic Matter Fractions under Managed Pine Plantations of the Southeastern USA

Herbicide application in plantation forests may affect soil productive capacity through its effect on the quantity and characteristics of soil C. We examined changes in surface soil (<10 cm) soil organic matter (SOM) fractions in 12- to 18-yr-old pine stands from the Lower Coastal Plain and Piedmont of the southeastern USA that were receiving complete competition control treatments (n = 13 paired plots). Light (LF) (<1.6 g cm -3 ), medium (MF) (1.6-2.0 g cm -3 ), and heavy (HF) fraction (2.0 g cm -3 ) SOM were isolated by density separation and the HF was hydrolyzed isolating a hydrolyzable (H-HF) and residual fraction (R-HF). Herbidde treated surface soils had lower whole soil C (12.8 g kg -1 ) and N (0.51 g kg -1 ) compared with untreated controls, 16.1 g C kg -1 and 0.63 g N kg -1 . Across all sites, the greatest decreases in soil C and N occurred in the LF and MF fractions. The majority of C and N in Lower Coastal Plain surface soils (∼90% sand) is partitioned in the LF + MF, while in the Piedmont soils (∼60% sand) it is in the H-HF. Decreases in these SOM fractions were only slightly greater than decreases in whole soil SOM. Additionally, there was a significant decrease of 27, 41, and 31% in net N mineralization (7-d anaerobic incubation) due to treatment in a Piedmont site for whole soil (WS), WS + L/MF, and WS + HF, respectively. For the Lower Coastal Plain site, there was an 18% decrease in the WS + L/MF mixture only. Complete competition control in both the Piedmont and Coastal Plain clearly decreased SOM quantity. Decreases in SOM quality. as indicated by decreased net N mineralization potential were also evident. The results suggest herbidde treatments may decrease the productive capacity of surface soils.
Munchausen syndrome by proxy: A survey of professionals' knowledge

This study examined professionals' knowledge of a relatively rare form of child abuse, Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSBP). Eighty-six professionals representing hospital or other medical settings, community services programs, the state children's service agency, and various law enforcement agencies were surveyed. Results indicated that professionals employed in medical or hospital settings were three times more likely to have heard of the syndrome than those employed by community service agencies. Journal articles and colleagues were the most popular sources of information pertaining to MSBP. Respondents identified 77 possible cases of MSBP in their caseloads over the past year. Findings suggest the need for educating community professionals as well as the possibility that the incidence of MSBP has been grossly underestimated. Implications for future research and preventive efforts are discussed.
Semigroup schemes for dynamic problems

A unified method for obtaining explicit approximate solution schemes for dynamic problems is presented. These schemes are based on the theory of semigroups of operators and can furnish approximate solutions which have an arbitrarily small truncation error. The physical problem considered is that of elastodynamics although the method is clearly not limited to this setting.
Localized income inequality, concentrated disadvantage and homicide

Abstract Several theories (e.g., routine activities, strain and social disorganization theories) suggest that there are effects of income inequality and concentrated disadvantage on crime. This study follows primarily the long line of social disorganization theorizing to explain the intraurban variation of homicide rates in Chicago. In addition to poverty, income inequality adds stress to individuals when they compare their situation to those around them. A localized income inequality (LII) index is implemented in a Geographic Information System (GIS) to measure the inequality between contiguous areas. Defining inequality in a localized context is important because geographic proximity permits close contacts between residents and thus reinforces the awareness of relative deprivation. This inequality index adds a new dimension to concentrated disadvantage in urban areas. The study shows that the new concentrated disadvantage measure is a strong predictor of homicide rates across three areal units of analysis in Chicago, i.e., census tracts, community areas and neighborhood clusters.
Communication in the management of uncertainty: The case of persons living with HIV or AIDS

Communication is a means of managing uncertainty. In a state of uncertainty: (a) information seeking can reduce uncertainty by allowing for better discrimination between or among alternatives; (b) information seeking can increase uncertainty by increasing the number of alternatives, or by blurring the distinction between or among alternatives; and (c) information avoidance can maintain uncertainty. Individuals living with HIV or AIDS, like many other chronically‐ill or terminally‐ill individuals, must manage high levels of uncertainty about their illness. Participants in a focus group study of persons with HIV or AIDS reported effective uncertainty management, including managing uncertainty that was challenging, managing uncertainty that was essential for maintaining hope, learning to live with chronic uncertainty, and managing information problems. New information can serve uncertainty management even if it fails to reduce the number or ambiguity of alternatives, because new information can invite a reap...
Label Propagation on K-partite Graphs

Label propagation is an approach to assign class labels to unlabeled data given some partially labeled data. In this paper, we systematically generalize the Laplacian matrix based label propagation method from pairwise graph data to data objects described by bipartite and general K-partite graphs. By deriving explicit label propagation formula, we show how information on one type of variables can be transformed to other types of variables. For example, in a word-document-author multi-relational dataset, information on words and on authors can effectively enhance the document labeling. Motivating examples are presented to illustrate these new concepts. Extensive experiments are performed on real-life datasets to show the effectiveness of our label propagation.
Improved fluoroimmunoassays using the dye Alexa Fluor 647 with the RAPTOR, a fiber optic biosensor

The performance of the fluorescent dye Alexa Fluor 647 (AF647) was explored as an alternative to Cy5 for immunoassays on the RAPTOR, a fiber optic biosensor. The RAPTOR performs sandwich fluoroimmunoassays on the surface of small polystyrene optical waveguides for analyte detection. Fluorescence and immunoassay data were examined at various dye-to-protein (D/P) ratios for both Cy5 and Alexa Fluor 647. Primarily, due to the self-quenching characteristics of Cy5, Alexa Fluor 647 is substantially more effective in fluoroimmunoassays, yielding over twice the signal for any given analyte concentration. Alexa Fluor 647 can be attached to antibodies at higher ratios, D/P=6, before self-quenching begins to limit the dye's effectiveness. Furthermore, while Alexa Fluor 647 becomes quenched at high dye-to-protein ratios, D/P=9, the net fluorescence yield reaches a maximum, as opposed to Cy5-labeled proteins, which become nearly nonfluorescent at high labeling ratios, D/P> or =6. The limitations of Cy5 were elucidated with an immunoassay for ricin, while the advantages of Alexa Fluor 647 were demonstrated in both direct binding assays as well as in a sandwich immunoassay for staphylococcal enterotoxin B.
Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Cu/Cu-Ni And Cu/Ag Multilayer thin Films

The mechanical properties of thin-film Cu/Cu-Ni and Cu/Ag multilayers are examined in this study. Films were prepared by magnetron sputter deposition onto cleaved NaCl substrates. The use of a computer-controlled deposition system enabled the multilayer interface width to be varied, as well as the multilayer amplitude and bilayer thickness. The Cu/Cu-Ni multilayers had the form of (001) oriented single crystal films, but for Cu-Ag multilayers only polycrystalline films could be obtained in the (001) orientation. For Cu/Cu-15%Ni multilayers, the tensile strengths were measured and observed to increase with decreasing interface width at constant wavelength. Tensile strengths were also found to increase with increasing composition modulation amplitude. For films with constant interface width but bilayer thicknesses ranging from 10 to 60 nm, the tensile strength was relatively constant. The results are consistent with previous theoretical treatments, particularly the theory of modulus hardening.
Relaxation to hopping conductivity in sulfur-doped hydrogenated amorphous silicon

Abstract Hydrogenated amorphous silicon–sulfur alloy (a-SiSx:H) films were rapidly cooled to a temperature at which electrical conduction is normally achieved by a hopping process. In the rapidly cooled state of sulfur-doped hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-SiS:H) with approximately 0.5 at.% S, the conductivity follows the activated process that dominates at higher temperatures. With time at low temperatures, the conductivity gradually increases and the mechanism is probably hopping conduction. The time dependence of this increase in conductivity is consistent with a stretched-exponential function with a thermal activation energy of about 0.2±0.1 eV and a stretched-exponential exponent of approximately 0.8 independent of temperature.
Pediatrician and Compounding Pharmacist: A Dangerous Liaison

Over the years, students have brought my attention to what they see as questionable practices by a small but significant number of independent pharmacists, whom I will call "compounding pharmacists." These pharmacists make their own drugs or modify manufactured drugs and offer their services primarily to pediatricians and physicians attending the elderly. It has been reported that over 3000 pharmacies are involved in these compounding practices ( Scrip Magazine . February 1995:6-8), and one can estimate that more than 30 000 pediatricians are using their services. These services include masking or changing flavors; making the drug in the form of lollipops, lozenges, or popsicles; and making special-strength solutions for inhalation. These may seem desirable services, but the driving motive is not the well-being of the patient but increased profit for the pharmacist and all too frequently for the pediatrician who may have a special business relationship with the compounding pharmacist ( Scrip Magazine
GPU accelerated real-time multi-functional spectral-domain optical coherence tomography system at 1300nm

We present a GPU accelerated multi-functional spectral domain optical coherence tomography system at 1300nm. The system is capable of real-time processing and display of every intensity image, comprised of 512 pixels by 2048 A-lines acquired at 20 frames per second. The update rate for all four images with size of 512 pixels by 2048 A-lines simultaneously (intensity, phase retardation, flow and en face view) is approximately 10 frames per second. Additionally, we report for the first time the characterization of phase retardation and diattenuation by a sample comprised of a stacked set of polarizing film and wave plate. The calculated optic axis orientation, phase retardation and diattenuation match well with expected values. The speed of each facet of the multi-functional OCT CPU-GPU hybrid acquisition system, intensity, phase retardation, and flow, were separately demonstrated by imaging a horseshoe crab lateral compound eye, a non-uniformly heated chicken muscle, and a microfluidic device. A mouse brain with thin skull preparation was imaged in vivo and demonstrated the capability of the system for live multi-functional OCT visualization.
Ulcerative colitis—Diagnosis and surgical treatment

ABSTRACT •ULCERATIVE COLITIS is a serious illness affecting the colon. Extracolonic manifestations include sclerosing cholangitis, arthritis, eye diseases, ankylosing spondylitis, and sacroiliitis. Ulcerative colitis may increase a patient's risk of cancer, depending on the duration and extent of the disease. •SURGERY is the only definitive way to remove the disease in its entirety. It may be possible for patients who do not wish to have a permanent stoma to undergo a restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis. •NORMAL BOWEL PHYSIOLOGY, pathophysiology of ulcerative colitis, medical and surgical treatments, and postoperative complications are discussed. AORN J 80 (August 2004) 243–262.
Anxiolytic effect of serotonin depletion in the novelty-induced hypophagia test.

Relatively little is known about the neural mechanisms underlying anxiety in the novelty-induced hypophagia test, the only known anxiety test that is responsive to chronic but not acute or subchronic antidepressant treatment. The goal of the present experiment was to characterize the role of serotonin in the ability of novelty to suppress feeding. Pair-housed male Sprague–Dawley rats were trained to eat graham cracker crumbs individually in their home cage (15 min/day). After stable daily intakes were obtained, the animals were depleted of serotonin using 4-chloro-dl-phenylalanine (150 mg kg−1 day−1 × 2 days). Forty-eight hours later, central serotonin was restored by the administration of the peripheral l-aromatic amino acid decarboxylase inhibitor, benserazide (10 mg/kg), followed 15 min later with the immediate precursor of serotonin, 5-hydroxy-l-tryptophan (30 mg/kg). Thirty minutes later, the animals were given access to graham cracker crumbs in a novel environment. The animals demonstrated increased latencies to approach the food and reduced food intake in the novel environment. This effect was attenuated by serotonin depletion. Repletion of central serotonin restored the inhibitory response to novelty. The analysis of serotonin content in different brain regions confirmed that serotonin was depleted by greater than 90%, whereas the repletion treatment resulted in serotonin levels similar to nondepleted animals. Acute depletion of serotonin acts to reduce anxiety behavior as measured by an inhibitory anxiety response during exposure to novel stimuli. These findings are in agreement with the proposed general role for serotonin in behavioral inhibition and that reductions of serotonin facilitate the adoption of more active coping responses to stress.