cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cardiolipin Synthase Is Associated with a Large Complex in Yeast Mitochondria

The phospholipid cardiolipin (CL) is ubiquitous in eucaryotes and is unique in structure, subcellular localization, and potential function. Previous studies have shown that CL is associated with major respiratory complexes in the mitochondrial membrane. To determine whether CL biosynthesis requires the presence of intact respiratory complexes, we measured activity of CL synthase, which catalyzes the synthesis of CL from cytidine diphosphate diacylglycerol and phosphatidylglycerol, in Saccharomyces cerevisiaestrains with genetic defects in the oxidative phosphorylation system. Assembly mutants of cytochrome oxidase had significantly reduced CL synthase activity, while assembly mutants of respiratory complex III and the F0F1-ATPase were less inhibited. To obtain further information on the activity of CL synthase, we purified the enzyme and compared the size of the catalytic protein with the functional molecular mass. The enzyme was solubilized by Triton X-100 from KSCN-extracted mitochondrial membranes of S. cerevisiae. The functional molecular mass of Triton-solubilized CL synthase, determined by radiation inactivation, was 150–240 kDa, indicating that the functional enzyme was a large complex. After partial purification, the enzyme eluted from a Superose 12 gel filtration column with an apparent molecular mass of 70 kDa. CL synthase was further purified by hydroxylapatite and cytidine diphosphate diacylglycerol affinity chromatographies, Mono Q anion exchange FPLC, and preparative gel electrophoresis. These steps led to identification of a 28-kDa protein, which had catalytic activity when eluted from an SDS-polyacrylamide gel. This 28-kDa protein also reacted with an antiserum that inactivated the enzyme. We conclude that yeast CL synthase is a 28-kDa protein, which forms an oligomeric complex whose biogenesis and/or activity is influenced by the assembly of cytochrome oxidase.
Digital Amplifiers for Analog Power

A design using highly efficient switchmode power amplifiers enables the engineer to offer extended battery life to portable equipment, reduce heat sinking requirements, and offer considerable energy savings. There are over a million audio amplifiers in the city of Chicago alone. If we could save a mere one watt per amplifier we will have saved over a million valuable watts!
Optical control of protein-protein interactions to modulate cellular function

While chemical tools that allow control of protein activities and interactions have been in use for a number of decades, a recently emerging field centers on the use of light for protein control, allowing spatial, temporal and dose-dependent control of an expanding repertoire of biological activities. Recently, we and others developed tools based on light stimulated photoreceptor protein interactions, termed ‘optical dimerizers.’ These genetically-encoded tools are derived from natural photoreceptor protein interactions that are regulated by light, and can be used to conditionally regulate the activity of target proteins. Here we demonstrate use of the blue light-induced CRY/CIB dimerizers, as well as other engineered light-responsive domains, to control protein localization and activity in living cells with light.
Preferences Among Immigrant Hispanic Women for Written Educational Materials Regarding Upper Respiratory Infections

The need for culturally appropriate health education materials for Hispanic populations has been widely recognized, and Spanish-language materials are available through a number of private and governmental organizations. We convened two focus groups to elucidate preferences regarding how health-related messages are obtained and to identify which educational materials available in Spanish were preferred by 26 recently immigrated Hispanic homemakers who had received 15 different bimonthly written documents as part of a community-based clinical trial to prevent household transmission of colds and influenza. Participants gave three primary reasons for volunteering to participate in the study: to provide better care for their children (96.2%, 25/26), to get information (96.2%, 25/26), and to get free products (47.1%, 8/17). Their primary sources of health-related information were relatives and friends (42.9%, 6/14), clinicians (35.7%, 5/14), mass media (14.3%, 2/14) or the emergency room (7.1%, 1/14); none mentioned the internet. Materials using either a question and answer or true/false format were clearly preferred, even when other options were more colorful or had lower reading levels. Printed educational materials may be ineffective unless they include a more systematic assessment of the user’s perceived needs for the information as well as consideration of format. In this population, a question and answer or true/false format and materials that could be shared with their children were greatly preferred.
Gender differences in job mobility rates in the united states

Abstract This research examines gender differences in job mobility rates, especially rates of movement into supervisory and managerial positions. Informed by human capital and segmentation theory, hypotheses concerning the effects of labor force withdrawals and gender-based occupational segregation on mobility are investigated. Using job history data and event history analysis a series of models of both voluntary moves and upward authority moves are specified and estimated. Results indicate that while labor force withdrawals and the percentage female in an occupation are related to these mobility rates, net of these factors, women continue to have lower rates of upward authority moves.
Parallel distributed seismic migration

Abstract We report significant speedup for seismic migration running in parallel on network-connected IBM RISC/6000 workstations. A sustained performance of 15 Mflops is obtained on a single entry-level model 320, and speedups as high as 5 are obtained for six workstations connected by ethernet or token ring. Our parallel software uses remote procedure calls provided by NCS (Network Computing System). We have run over a dozen workstations in parallel, but speedups become limited by network data rate. Fiber optic communication should allow much greater speedups, and we describe our preliminary results with the fiber optic serial link adapter of the RISC/6000. We also present a simple theoretical model that agrees well with our measurements and allows speedup to be predicted from a knowledge of the ratio of computation to communication, which can be determined empirically before the program is parallelized. We conclude with a brief discussion of alternative software approaches and programming models for network-connected parallel systems.
Coronal Accessory Canal: Report of Case

A slight pain on brushing was the patient’s only symptom. Clinical and radiographic examination revealed, however, a circular defect in the coronal aspect of the maxillary right lateral incisor. The existence of a soft tissue communication between the marginal gingiva and the dental pulp was confirmed during the surgical procedure.
Coexisting abdominal aortic aneurysm and lung cancer

Virtually no guidelines exist regarding the treatment of patients with coexisting abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and carcinoma of the lung. The records of 19 patients with this challenging combination presenting in the last 5 years were reviewed to determine: mode of presentation, risk factors, stage of cancer, size of AAA, treatment, and natural history. There were 15 men and four women aged 59-77 years. All had smoking histories ranging from 19.3 to 120 pack-years (mean: 74 pack-years). Ten presented with AAA primarily, six primarily with lung cancer, and in the remaining three, lung cancer and the AAA were diagnosed in the course of workup for unrelated complaints.
Advances in the development of grafts for bypass of small-caliber arteries.

The standard for coronary bypass is now clearly the autogenous internal mammary artery (IMA). Complete revascularization of the left ventricle can be attained in most cases using only the IMA's with as many sequential anastomoses as necessary. This advance has freed the saphenous vein (SV) for use below the knee joint.
The use of population projection matrices in cell kinetics.

Abstract Population projection matrices are applied to the study of cycling populations of cells. Simple generalizations of the method are used to study the transit time distributions through each phase: G 1 , S , G 2 and M . It is thereby possible to derive many of the common results of cell kinetics without recourse to LaPlace transforms. It is further shown that the method may be used with great ease in numerical generation of FLM curves. Two simulated curves are compared with different distributions of transit times through each phase and it is shown that the differences are experimentally undetectable.
Potassium currents in CA1 neurons of rat hippocampus increase shortly after transient cerebral ischemia.

Total potassium current in CA1 pyramidal neurons was studied using whole-cell voltage-clamp recording technique in hippocampal slices prepared before and at 6–8 h after transient forebrain ischemia. The total potassium current significantly increased from a control value of 2.17±0.17 to 2.96±0.31 nA (measured at +70 mV, P<0.05) after ischemia. The slope factor Vc of activation curve significantly decreased and the half-inactivation voltage Vh shifted to more depolarized potentials after ischemia. These results indicate that the increase of potassium current might be responsible for the decreased excitability in CA1 neurons after severe ischemia and may be involved in postischemic cell death in hippocampus.
Molecular dynamics studies of simple membrane-water interfaces: Structure and functions in the beginnings of cellular life

Molecular dynamics computer simulations of the structure and functions of a simple membrane are performed in order to examine whether membranes provide an environment capable of promoting protobiological evolution. Our model membrane is composed of glycerol 1-monooleate. It is found that the bilayer surface fluctuates in time and space, occasionally creating thinning defects in the membrane. These defects are essential for passive transport of simple ions across membranes because they reduce the Born barrier to this process by approximately 40%. Negative ions are transferred across the bilayer more readily than positive ions due to favorable interactions with the electric field at the membrane-water interface. Passive transport of neutral molecules is, in general, more complex than predicted by the solubility-diffusion model. In particular, molecules which exhibit sufficient hydrophilicity and lipophilicity concentrate near membrane surfaces and experience 'interfacial resistance' to transport. The membrane-water interface forms an environment suitable for heterogeneous catalysis. Several possible mechanisms leading to an increase of reaction rates at the interface are discussed. We conclude that vesicles have many properties that make them very good candidates for earliest protocells. Some potentially fruitful directions of experimental and theoretical research on this subject are proposed.
Making up users

Within recent years, financial statement users have been accorded great significance by accounting standard-setters. In the United States, the conceptual framework maintains that a primary purpose of financial statements is to provide information useful to investors and creditors in making their economic decisions. Contemporary accounting textbooks unproblematically posit this purpose for accounting. Yet, this emphasis is quite recent and occurred despite limited knowledge about the information needs and decision processes of actual users of financial statements. This paper unpacks the taken-for-grantedness of the primacy of financial statement users in standard-setting and considers their use as a category to justify and denigrate particular accounting disclosures and practices. It traces how particular ideas about financial statement users and their connection to accounting standard setting have been constructed in various documents and reports including the conceptual framework and accounting standards.
Intraoperative Resident Education for Robotic Laparoscopic Gastric Banding Surgery: A Pilot Study on the Safety of Stepwise Education

Background Incorporation of robotic surgery into resident education poses questions regarding intraoperative teaching and patient care. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of gradually increasing resident console responsibility on resident competency and patient safety, in the presence of a proctor and bedside surgeon, for robotic laparoscopic-assisted gastric banding (R-LAGB) compared with the classical training model (CTM) of residents as first assistant. Study Design Eight clinical year 4 (CY4) residents completed 60 R-LAGB using a one-to-one proctored training model (PTM). R-LAGB was distilled into 7 key steps: gastroesophageal-junction dissection, gastrohepatic ligament dissection, retrogastric space creation, band placement, band closure, gastrogastric suturing, and port placement. Residents performed more complex steps after each case to gain competency in all aspects of the operation. Patient demographics, comorbidities, operative complications, operating times, and clinical outcomes were compared with a control group of 287 R-LAGB cases completed using the CTM (n = 15 CY4 residents). Results All residents using the PTM were able to successfully complete an R-LAGB as primary surgeon after a median of 8 operations (range 5 to 11); no residents in the CTM completed an R-LAGB as primary surgeon. Mean operative time was statistically greater in the PTM group (99.3 ± 22.1 minutes) vs CTM (91.5 ± 21.1 minutes) (p = 0.001). There were no intraoperative complications in either group; incidence of postoperative complications was similar between groups. Conclusions All residents in the proctored setting claimed competence and have persistent console experience without significantly increasing procedure complications. PTM, otherwise known as stepwise education, is a safe, standardized method to train surgical residents in R-LAGB.
Effects of reserpine and colchicine on enterochromaffin cells.

Abstract Enterochromaffin cells can be distinguished in preparations of rabbit duodenal mucosa stained supravitally with neutral red. In reserpinized rabbits, these cells show a loss of granulation in from 4 to 6 hr, corresponding to that previously observed in studies of fixed and stained sections. Colchicine-treated rabbits also demonstrate a delayed degranulation of enterochromaffin cells, both by the supravital and by the stained section methods. This may have some bearing on the hyperperistalsis known to be produced by colchicine.
Structural barriers to the take-up of higher level NVQs

Abstract This article explores perceptions of barriers to the take-up of higher level NVQs (levels 4/5). The literature on higher NVQ adoption is reviewed together with uptake statistics. Research involving interviews and case studies showed that the most successful higher NVQs are linked to professional qualifying routes, have generic application across a range of sectors or fill gaps where qualifications were not previously established. Higher NVQs suffer from credibility problems and variable delivery quality partly accounts for a tarnished image. Support for occupational standards is strong, but their design is not generally suited to higher qualifications. Awarding bodies need to assess the learning experience on award programmes more closely. Funding mechanisms disadvantage higher NVQs particularly in the university sector. NVQs are perceived to be relatively costly; however, there is little data available to enable objective comparison. Suggestions for overcoming these barriers are offered.
Retrospective cohort mortality study of workers in a polymer production plant including a reference population of regional workers

Purpose Based on previous reports of increased serum lipid levels in workers at a U.S. polymer manufacturing facility, the study objective was to investigate ischemic heart disease (IHD) mortality as well as a broad range of mortality causes for an occupational cohort at the facility. Methods The cohort comprised 6,027 men and women who had worked at the facility between 1948 and 2002; these years delimit the mortality follow-up period. Standardized mortality ratios (SMR) were estimated to compare observed numbers of deaths to expected numbers derived from mortality rates for 3 reference populations: the U.S. population, the West Virginia state population, and an 8-state regional employee population from the same company. Results Most SMR estimates based on U.S. and state populations were below 100. Comparison to the employee population also resulted in many SMR estimates at or near a no-effect level. Relative to the regional worker population, a nonsignificant elevation for IHD mortality was observed (SMR = 109, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 96, 124). Mortality associated with diabetes was significantly increased compared to the regional worker population (SMR = 197, 95% CI: 123, 298). A corresponding increase in the SMR for IHD and diabetes mortality was not detected for comparisons with the two general populations. Conclusions The results reported herein show little evidence of increased cause-specific mortality risks for workers at the plant. This study demonstrates the utility of comparing occupational cohorts with a similar worker reference population in order to reduce bias associated with the healthy worker effect.
Respiratory inhibition induced by transient hypertension during sleep in unrestrained cats

The effects of transient blood pressure elevation, induced by intravenous injection of phenylephrine, were studied in drug-free, unrestrained cats during sleep and waking. Transient hypertension evoked an increase in respiratory cycle duration (Ttot), an effect which was most prominent during quiet sleep. Transient hypertension evoked no overall change in inspiratory duration (Tdi) during any sleep-waking state, although reduction of diaphragmatic EMG amplitude was observed. Thus, the ratio of diaphragmatic activity time to total respiratory cycle duration (Tdi/Ttot) was decreased following blood pressure elevation. Apneic episodes occasionally occurred, and these occurrences were more frequent during sleep states. Apneas induced during quiet sleep were often associated with transient or sustained arousal.
Comparison of blood pressure responses to intra-arterial and intra-vendus injections of angiotensin I, angiotensin II and bradykinin

Because of the reported uneven vascular distribution of the enzyme, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), we hypothesized that the magnitude of blood pressure responses to bolus injections of angiotensin I (Ang I) and bradykinin (BK) would be dependent upon the route of administration, i.e., intra-arterial (i.a.) or intra-venous (i.v.). Anesthetized rats with cannulas in the left carotid artery and the right internal jugular vein were given bolus injections of each agent, alternating between the two cannulas. Intra-venous injections of Ang I produced transient increases in arterial pressure that were significantly greater (27 +/- 12%) and longer (7 +/- 7%) than those induced by equimolar i.a. injections within the same preparation. Intra-venous injections of BK produced transient decreases in arterial pressure that were significantly smaller (72 +/- 4%) and shorter (78 +/- 11%) than similar i.a. injections. Unexpectedly, i.v. injections of Ang II also evoked slightly larger transient increases in arterial pressure (11 +/- 4%) than similar i.a. injections. These results suggest that enzymatic alterations of Ang I and BK probably by angiotensin converting enzyme during their initial passage through the pulmonary circulation has a small but significant influence on their pressor effects.
Outcomes of total knee arthroplasty in relation to preoperative patient-reported and radiographic measures: data from the osteoarthritis initiative

Introduction:Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is the preferred surgical treatment for end-stage osteoarthritis. However, substantial numbers of patients still experience poor outcomes. Consequently, i...
Nano/Micro Satellite Constellations for Earth and Space Science

Spacecraft constellations are becoming a reality for NASA’s Earth and Space science, with the first steps already under way in building the infrastructure and knowledge base required for their implementation. In this paper we provide updated information on nano/micro satellite constellation missions either within NASA’s strategic plan or in the proposal stages. We will also present two examples of New Millennium Program technology missions that are today finding the solutions required to enable the constellations of the near and far-term future. Finally we will show what is being done in the area of Guidance, Navigation, and Control to facilitate the interconnectivity of constellations to act as single systems.
Special Relativity at the Quantum Scale

It has been suggested that the space-time structure as described by the theory of special relativity is a macroscopic manifestation of a more fundamental quantum structure (pre-geometry). Efforts to quantify this idea have come mainly from the area of abstract quantum logic theory. Here we present a preliminary attempt to develop a quantum formulation of special relativity based on a model that retains some geometric attributes. Our model is Feynman's “checker-board” trajectory for a 1-D relativistic free particle. We use this model to guide us in identifying (1) the quantum version of the postulates of special relativity and (2) the appropriate quantum “coordinates”. This model possesses a useful feature that it admits an interpretation both in terms of paths in space-time and in terms of quantum states. Based on the quantum version of the postulates, we derive a transformation rule for velocity. This rule reduces to the Einstein's velocity-addition formula in the macroscopic limit and reveals an interesting aspect of time. The 3-D case, time-dilation effect, and invariant interval are also discussed in term of this new formulation. This is a preliminary investigation; some results are derived, while others are interesting observations at this point.
Formation of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-β-carboline and methylene-β-phenylethylimine from 5-methyltetrahydrofolate and amines in tissues from developing rat brain

Abstract The rates of synthesis of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-β-carboline (THβC) and methylene-β-phenylethylimine (MβΦEI) from 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) and tryptamine and β-phenylethylamine (βΦEA) respectively have been measured in cerebellum, corpus striatum, and the remainder of the brain from male and female rats at six specific ages after birth. With either substrate the specific activity of the reaction was higher in cerebellum than in corpus striatum until approximately 31 days after birth. The fluctuations in neonatal production of THβC and MβΦEI in cerebellum were nearly parallel except around six days, when THβC production peaked and MβΦEI production dropped considerably. The regional differences in the neonatal patterns of THβC and MβΦEI formation hint that the formaldehyde-forming enzyme (whether or not it is methylane-tetrahydrofolate reductase as we believe) might be related to structural and functional development in specific brain regions.
Estimated prevalence of Alzheimer's disease in the United States

Although awareness of Alzheimer's disease has increased strikingly among professional and lay audiences, precise means do not exist to calculate how many Americans the disease affects. Projecting data from a cohort of 32,000 individuals in a defined community in the United States, however, suggests that there were 2.88 million persons aged 65 or older with probable Alzheimer's disease in 1980. Using U.S. Census Bureau middle series projections yields an estimated total of 10.3 million persons with the disease for the year 2050. Limitations on these estimates notwithstanding, the projections indicate that more studies are needed to identify the etiology of Alzheimer's disease, its incidence, and the future costs of relevant institutional and community care.
A nuclear magnetic resonance study of rotational isomerism in alkyl nitrites

Abstract The proton magnetic resonance spectra of several alkyl nitrites were investigated over the temperature range −100° to 20°. At temperatures less than −55°C the rate of rotation about the ON bond is reduced to less than about 160 sec−1 and the separate resonances for the CH2ONO protons of the cis- and trans-forms have been observed. Cis/trans isomer ratios are presented for −100° and 20°, the cis-isomer slightly predominating over the trans for this temperature range. ΔH for the trans → cis conversion is shown to be −130 cal, and the free energy of activation for reorientations about the ON bond is estimated to be 10 kcal. Ratios of infrared absorption coefficients for the cis- and trans-isomers were determined by combining infrared optical density ratios and nmr isomer ratios.
Automated High-Power RF Microwave Tube Test Stand

This paper describes an automated test stand used for testing the high-power klystron amplifiers for the Ground Test Accelerator (GTA). To verify klystron performance, we have developed an automated test system using data-acquisition and control programs based on LabVIEW?, a program that readily interfaces with both the high-power transmitter?s programmable logic controller and the GPIB interface test equipment. The automated test system also provides extensive analysis, improved data storage and processing, and documentation of the test conditions. This approach allows one to develop and operate a complex test system using an iconic-programming system. Three automated tests were developed and performed on the high-power klystron: swept-frequency, power-transfer, and voltage standing wave ration (VSWR) at several operating conditions. This paper describes the hardware used to test the klystrons, presents an example of the test data, provides block diagrams of the software used in the test stand, and characterizes all the capabilities for the automated test system. This test facility is being used by the GTA program to fully characterize the klystron amplifiers before they are placed into accelerator service, verify the factory acceptance tests, and determine optimal operating conditions for power levels below saturation. Currently, we are moving the test stand to the Los Alamos Meson Physics Facility (LAMPF) where we will test many klystrons used in their accelerator. These klystrons have been in operation for twenty years. Some of the amplifiers have been rebuilt and other amplifiers are in process of being retuned or decommissioned.
Environmental Factors, Toxicants and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an immune-complex-mediated multi-systemic autoimmune condition of multifactorial etiology, which mainly affects young women. It is currently believed that the onset of SLE and lupus flares are triggered by various environmental factors in genetically susceptible individuals. Various environmental agents and toxicants, such as cigarette smoke, alcohol, occupationally- and non-occupationally-related chemicals, ultraviolet light, infections, sex hormones and certain medications and vaccines, have been implicated to induce SLE onset or flares in a number case series, case-control and population-based cohort studies and very few randomized controlled trials. Here, we will describe some of these recognized environmental lupus triggering and perpetuating factors and explain how these factors potentially bias the immune system towards autoimmunity through their interactions with genetic and epigenetic alterations. Further in-depth exploration of how potentially important environmental factors mechanistically interact with the immune system and the genome, which trigger the onset of SLE and lupus flares, will certainly be one of the plausible steps to prevent the onset and to decelerate the progress of the disease.
Influence of a gold(I)-Acetylide subunit on the photophysics of Re(phen)(CO)3Cl.

The synthesis and photophysical properties of two new Re(I) complexes are reported: fac-Re(phenC⋮CH)(CO)3Cl (where phenC⋮CH is 5-ethynyl-1,10-phenanthroline) and its Au(I)-acetylide analogue (fac-Re(phenC⋮CAuPPh3)(CO)3Cl). Also reported are the photophysical measurements obtained for the benchmark fac-Re(phen)(CO)3Cl chromophore, as well as the phenC⋮CAuPPh3 and phenC⋮CH ligands. The unstable nature of the precursor gold-containing ligand illustrates the advantage of using the “chemistry on the complex” approach, which facilitated preparation of the Re−Au binuclear complex. Where possible, all compounds were studied by static and transient absorption (TA), as well as steady-state and time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL), at room temperature (RT) and 77 K, as well as nanosecond time-resolved infrared (TRIR) spectroscopy. The spectroscopic information provided by these techniques enabled a thorough evaluation of excited-state decay in most cases. In fac-Re(phenC⋮CH)(CO)3Cl, the RT excited-state decay is ...
Determination of the Functional Domain Organization of the Importin α Nuclear Import Factor

Although importin α (Imp α) has been shown to act as the receptor for basic nuclear localization signals (NLSs) and to mediate their recruitment to the importin β nuclear import factor, little is known about the functional domains present in Imp α, with the exception that importin β binding is known to map close to the Imp α NH2 terminus. Here, we demonstrate that sequences essential for binding to the CAS nuclear export factor are located near the Imp α COOH terminus and include a critical acidic motif. Although point mutations introduced into this acidic motif inactivated both CAS binding and Imp α nuclear export, a putative leucine-rich nuclear export signal proved to be neither necessary nor sufficient for Imp α nuclear export. Analysis of sequences within Imp α that bind to the SV-40 T antigen NLS or to the similar LEF-1 NLS revealed that both NLSs interact with a subset of the eight degenerate armadillo (Arm) repeats that form the central part of Imp α. However, these two NLS-binding sites showed only minimal overlap, thus suggesting that the degeneracy of the Arm repeat region of Imp α may serve to facilitate binding to similar but nonidentical basic NLSs. Importantly, the SV-40 T NLS proved able to specifically inhibit the interaction of Imp α with CAS in vitro, thus explaining why the SV-40 T NLS is unable to also function as a nuclear export signal.
Additional treatments and reimbursement rates associated with prostate cancer treatment for patients undergoing radical prostatectomy, interstitial brachytherapy, and external beam radiotherapy

Objectives. To define patterns of treatment among contemporary patients undergoing radical prostatectomy, interstitial radiation, and external beam radiation for prostate cancer. Methods. We analyzed 291 consecutive patients (Stage T1-T3NXM0) who underwent definitive local treatment for prostate cancer with radical prostatectomy, interstitial seed implantation, or external beam radiation. Patients were stratified into three risk groups based on clinical T stage, serum prostate-specific antigen level at diagnosis, and biopsy Gleason score. The frequency of additional treatments, including androgen deprivation and external beam radiation, given within 3 months of initial local therapy was assessed. Patterns of care were compared and adjusted for risk. Results. Of the 291 patients, 107 (36.8%) underwent radical prostatectomy, 94 (32.3%) underwent interstitial seed implantation, and 90 (30.9%) underwent external beam radiation. Use of combination therapy differed significantly according to the type of initial local treatment and risk category. No patient in the low-risk group received combination therapy. For patients in the intermediate and high-risk groups, the frequency of combination therapy was significantly lower in the radical prostatectomy group when compared with either the interstitial seed implantation (P <0.001 and P <0.02, respectively) or external beam radiation group (P <0.001 and P <0.001, respectively). Conclusions. There are significant differences in resource utilization for contemporary patients undergoing definitive local therapy for prostate cancer. These differences may have a significant effect on treatment cost and morbidity, and they will likely make short-term comparisons between different treatment modalities difficult because of the high use of androgen deprivation in men treated with radiation therapy.
The search for a quantum KAM theorem

The complex mechanisms by which nonlinear classical conservative systems undergo a transition from quasiperiodic to chaotic behavior are now fairly well understood. This transition is associated with a breakdown of quasi-constants of motion (KAM surfaces). There is growing evidence that similar mechanisms may govern the behavior of quantum systems. While K-type mixing behavior has not yet been found, there does appear to be a transition associated with the destruction of a quantum quasi-constant of motion (quantum KAM states) which changes qualitatively the spectrum of quantum systems.
Crack-Propagation Rate in 7075-T6 Plates Under Cyclic Tensile and Transverse Shear Loadings

Abstract : Crack propagation rate in 7075-T6 tension plates was determined for central cracks initially oriented in 45 degrees, 60 degrees, and 90 degrees, to the width direction of the tension plates which were loaded cyclically. Opening and sliding mode of stress intensity factors, K sub 1 and K sub 2, were determined by the method of direct stiffness for curved cracks generated from these initially slanted cracks. Crack propagation rates, Delta a/Delta N, were then plotted against the maximum opening mode of stress intensity factor, K sub 1, in the presence of sliding mode of stress intensity factor, K sub 2. Comparison between the corresponding crack propagation rate in control specimens without K sub 2 showed that the propagation rate is definitely increased in the presence of K sub 2. (Author)
Relationship Between Days Open and Cumulative Milk Yield at Various Intervals from Parturition for High and Low Producing Cows

Abstract Holstein lactation records from New York Dairy Records Processing Laboratory were used to estimate relationships between days open and cumulative milk yield at intervals from parturition and the effect of lactation number, season of freshening, and production on these relationships. The relationship of days open with total days in milk also was estimated. Quadratic regression equations that relate cumulative milk yield at 210, 240, 270, 300, 330, and 360 days from parturition and total number of days in milk with days open were estimated for cows with high and low yields in first, second, and third and later lactation freshening in three seasons. Milk yield early in lactation was used to classify cows in classes of high and low production. The association between days open and cumulative milk yield was less for cows within a production class than across all cows with production early in lactation ignored. The change in cumulative milk yield at 305 days associated with number of days open was greater for older cows than for cows in first lactation but not different between high and low producing cows within lactation. This indicates that correcting 305-day milk yield to a standard number of days open should be additive. Quantities of milk required to correct milk production to a standard 100 days open were calculated.
HIV-1 Nef sequence and functional compartmentalization in the gut is not due to differential cytotoxic T lymphocyte selective pressure.

The gut is the largest lymphoid organ in the body and a site of active HIV-1 replication and immune surveillance. The gut is a reservoir of persistent infection in some individuals with fully suppressed plasma viremia on combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) although the cause of this persistence is unknown. The HIV-1 accessory protein Nef contributes to persistence through multiple functions including immune evasion and increasing infectivity. Previous studies showed that Nef’s function is shaped by cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses and that there are distinct populations of Nef within tissue compartments. We asked whether Nef’s sequence and/or function are compartmentalized in the gut and how compartmentalization relates to local CTL immune responses. Primary nef quasispecies from paired plasma and sigmoid colon biopsies from chronically infected subjects not on therapy were sequenced and cloned into Env− Vpu− pseudotyped reporter viruses. CTL responses were mapped by IFN-γ ELISpot using expanded CD8+ cells from blood and gut with pools of overlapping peptides covering the entire HIV proteome. CD4 and MHC Class I Nef-mediated downregulation was measured by flow cytometry. Multiple tests indicated compartmentalization of nef sequences in 5 of 8 subjects. There was also compartmentalization of function with MHC Class I downregulation relatively well preserved, but significant loss of CD4 downregulation specifically by gut quasispecies in 5 of 7 subjects. There was no compartmentalization of CTL responses in 6 of 8 subjects, and the selective pressure on quasispecies correlated with the magnitude CTL response regardless of location. These results demonstrate that Nef adapts via diverse pathways to local selective pressures within gut mucosa, which may be predominated by factors other than CTL responses such as target cell availability. The finding of a functionally distinct population within gut mucosa offers some insight into how HIV-1 may persist in the gut despite fully suppressed plasma viremia on cART.
Morphologic Evidence for a Preferential Storage of Tissue Plasminogen Activator (t-PA) in Perivascular Axons of the Rat Uvea

Abstract The uveal layer is thought to hold the largest stores of tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) within the eye. However, the uveal cell types that contain and could release t-PA to contiguous tissues and fluids have not been clearly identified. In the present study the general distribution pattern of t-PA antigen in fresh rat iris and choroid tissue was determined by immunofluorescence in preliminary light microscopic (LM) cryosections. Transmission electron microscopic (TEM) immunogold localization was then used to detect specific cellular and subcellular sites of t-PA antigen. The primary antibody was rabbit anti-mouse t-PA IgG. The immunofluorescence in preliminary LM cryosections of both tissues was most intense over discrete linear and cross-sectioned structures that resembled the contours of axon bundles. This impression was strengthened when silver impregnation highlighted similar structures in separate sections of the same tissue samples. TEM immunogold labeling of thin sections then confirmed that the t-PA antigen was confined to the axoplasm of both myelinated and unmyelinated perivascular nerve fibers in both the iris and choroid. Gold particles were not observed over axonal membranes, myelin sheaths, Schwann cells, retinal pigment epithelium or vascular endothelial cells. Ultrathin TEM cryosections of the iris showed a localization of some particles over structures that resembled tubules and vesicles within the axoplasm, but not over mitochondria. The axonal location of t-PA was shown by the co-localization of t-PA with an antibody against rat neurofilaments. The typical axon morphology that enclosed the t-PA particle markers in all TEM sections also indicated an axonal location. Separate TEM sections were processed with conventional fixatives and stains to highlight the typical uveal axon morphology, which also confirmed the identity of perivascular axons as the sites of t-PA localization. Affinity of the primary antibody for rat t-PA was shown by an inhibition ELISA against rat uveal tissue extracts and by the inhibition of t-PA activity in aqueous humor. An amidolytic assay was used to quantify t-PA activity. Possible explanations for the preferential immunolocalization of t-PA antigen to the axoplasm of uveal nerve terminals and the need for additional functional studies to confirm a putative neural t-PA synthesis are discussed.
Leg symptoms, the ankle-brachial index, and walking ability in patients with peripheral arterial disease

OBJECTIVE: To determine how functional status and walking ability are related to both severity of lower extremity peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and PAD-related leg symptoms.
Shortening velocity of collagen and muscle fibers(1)

Abstract The initial shortening velocity of collagen and glycerinated rabbit psoas fibers were studied as a function of applied force while immersed in media where an isothermal phase transition occurred. Quantitatively similar results were found for both kinds of fibers. In the two-phase region the Hill equation is obeyed with the same constants that have been found for stimulated muscle. It is suggested that a similar underlying mechanism governs contractility in these systems.
Uncertainty associated with the gravimetric measurement of particulate matter concentration in ambient air

This work applied a propagation of uncertainty method to typical total suspended particulate (TSP) sampling apparatus in order to estimate the overall measurement uncertainty. The objectives of this study were to estimate the uncertainty for three TSP samplers, develop an uncertainty budget, and determine the sensitivity of the total uncertainty to environmental parameters. The samplers evaluated were the TAMU High Volume TSP Sampler at a nominal volumetric flow rate of 1.42 m3 min–1 (50 CFM), the TAMU Low Volume TSP Sampler at a nominal volumetric flow rate of 17 L min–1 (0.6 CFM) and the EPA TSP Sampler at the nominal volumetric flow rates of 1.1 and 1.7 m3 min–1 (39 and 60 CFM). Under nominal operating conditions the overall measurement uncertainty was found to vary from 6.1 x 10–6 g m–3 to 18.0 x 10–6 g m–3, which represented an uncertainty of 1.7% to 5.2% of the measurement. Analysis of the uncertainty budget determined that three of the instrument parameters contributed significantly to the overall ...
Patients' preferences explain a small but significant share of regional variation in medicare spending.

This study assessed the extent to which differences in patients’ preferences across geographic areas explained differences in traditional fee-for-service Medicare spending across Dartmouth Atlas of...
Bovine and ovine prolactins: A difference of two amino acids indicated by peptide maps

Abstract Peptide maps of tryptic digests of ovine and bovine prolactins indicated only two places where the amino acid compositions differed. Bovine prolactin had no histidine at position 164 and contained an alanine instead of valine at position 107. All the residues in the amino acid sequence of ovine prolactin were accounted for on the map.
A Markovian model of consumer buying behavior and optimal advertising pulsing policy

Abstract This paper deals with the problem of scheduling optimal advertising policy for a very general class of consumer buying behavior models. To avoid analysis of a complex multitude of social-psychological and cultural-environmental factors affecting the consumer's decision we construct a stochastic model. Because of the diminishing effect of even advertising policy, we consider advertising pulsing policy (APP) as a means to increase advertising effectiveness. By reducing the probabilistic evolution of sales and consumers' attitude over time to their means, multivariate linear least-square regression is used to estimate the market parameters and validate the model. The prescribed strategy scheduling maximizes the discounted profit function, which includes uncertainty in sales over a finite campaign duration. The superiority of APP over an even advertising policy is illustrated numerically.
Surgical Management of Scoliosis and/or Spondylolisthesis Associated with Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis occurs most commonly in the elderly population and patients typically present with symptoms of neurogenic claudication. Complex stenosis is that which occurs in conjunction with spondylolisthesis or scoliosis. In addition to typical complaints, patients commonly develop radicular pain and back pain. In most cases initial treatment is nonoperative. Patients who fail to respond symptomatically are treated surgically. Surgical intervention in cases of complex stenosis necessitates decompression of the neural elements, and recent literature supports the addition of instrumented fusion to the decompression. More minimally invasive strategies are beginning to surface to treat complex stenosis as well.
Allelic variation of a Beauveria bassiana (Ascomycota: Hypocreales) minisatellite is independent of host range and geographic origin

The minisatellite locus, BbMin1, was isolated from a partial Beauveria bassiana genomic library that con- sisted of poly(GA) flanked inserts. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of the BbMin1 repeat demonstrated allele size variation among 95 B. bassiana isolates. Amplification was also observed from single isolates of Beauveria amorpha, Beauveria brongniartii, and Beauveria caledonica. Eight alleles were identified at the haploid locus, where repeat num- ber fluctuated between one and fourteen. AMOVA and θ (Fst) indicated that fixation of repeat number has not occurred within pathogenic ecotypes or geographically isolated samples of B. bassiana. Selective neutrality of allele size, the rate of BbMin1 mutation, and the age of the species may contribute to host and geographic independence of the marker. Presence of alleles with a large number of repeat units may be attributed to the rare occurrence of somatic re - combination or DNA replication error. The molecular genetic marker was useful for the identification of genetic types of B. bassiana and related species.