cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Growth Hormone-Releasing Factor Effects on Pituitary Function, Growth, and Lactation

Growth and lactation are complex processes controlled by several metabolic hormones such as insulin, glucagon, and thyroid hormones but most notably growth hormone. Growth hormone secretion is regulated by two hypothalamic hormones, somatostatin, an inhibitory regulatory factor, and growth hormone-releasing factor. The quantity and pattern of growth hormone secretion is ultimately regulated in concert by the secretion of both regulatory factors from the hypothalamus through the hypothalamo-hypophyseal portal system, where they exert their actions at unique pituitary receptors. Because the potential use of exogenous growth hormone administration for the stimulation of growth efficiency and lactation has been demonstrated, recent efforts have been directed toward the enhancement of production through manipulation of endogenous growth hormone secretion via its releasing factor. Thus far, releasing factor-stimulated growth and lactation has not been achieved to the same extent as that of exogenous growth hormone. Growth hormone-releasing factor has stimulated growth in two growth hormone-deficient children, as well as female, but not male, rats. Although all food-producing species tested to date respond to growth hormone-releasing factor with the appropriate growth hormone response, continuous or pulsatile administration of releasing factor has not resulted in increased growth rate in sheep, chicks, or hogs. Despite levels of circulating growth hormone that would be expected to produce a 30% increase in milk production if given exogenously to dairy cows, releasing factor-stimulated growth hormone secretion has resulted in only a 3 to 9% increase. It is clear from these studies that further developments are necessary to demonstrate the practical application of growth hormone-releasing factor.
Vacuum-assisted complex wound closure with elastic vessel loop augmentation: a novel technique

Patients with serious abdominal or soft-tissue injuries may require multistaged surgical management. The Vacuum-Assisted Closure device, used in combination with a shoelace technique, can promote fascial and soft-tissue approximation.
Impaired cerebral angiogenesis in the fetal lamb model of persistent pulmonary hypertension

Abstract Background Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) is associated with increased risk of neuro-developmental impairments. Whether relative fetal hypoxia during evolution of PPHN renders the fetal brain vulnerable to perinatal brain injury remains unclear. We hypothesized that in utero ductal constriction, which induces PPHN also impairs cerebral angiogenesis. Methods Fetal lambs with PPHN induced by prenatal ligation of the ductus arteriosus were compared to gestation matched twin controls. Freshly collected or fixed brain specimens were analyzed by immunohistochemistry, Western blot analysis, and RT-PCR. Results Cortical capillary density was decreased in PPHN lambs compared to controls (Glut-1, isolectin B-4 and factor VIII, n = 6, p Conclusions PPHN decreased cortical capillary density in fetal lamb brain. PPHN decreased the expression of proteins involved in angiogenesis. These findings suggest that PPHN is associated with impaired cortical angiogenesis.
Adult somatic stem cells in the human parasite Schistosoma mansoni

Schistosomiasis is among the most prevalent human parasitic diseases, affecting more than 200 million people worldwide. The aetiological agents of this disease are trematode flatworms (Schistosoma) that live and lay eggs within the vasculature of the host. These eggs lodge in host tissues, causing inflammatory responses that are the primary cause of morbidity. Because these parasites can live and reproduce within human hosts for decades, elucidating the mechanisms that promote their longevity is of fundamental importance. Although adult pluripotent stem cells, called neoblasts, drive long-term homeostatic tissue maintenance in long-lived free-living flatworms (for example, planarians), and neoblast-like cells have been described in some parasitic tapeworms, little is known about whether similar cell types exist in any trematode species. Here we describe a population of neoblast-like cells in the trematode Schistosoma mansoni. These cells resemble planarian neoblasts morphologically and share their ability to proliferate and differentiate into derivatives of multiple germ layers. Capitalizing on available genomic resources and RNA-seq-based gene expression profiling, we find that these schistosome neoblast-like cells express a fibroblast growth factor receptor orthologue. Using RNA interference we demonstrate that this gene is required for the maintenance of these neoblast-like cells. Our observations indicate that adaptation of developmental strategies shared by free-living ancestors to modern-day schistosomes probably contributed to the success of these animals as long-lived obligate parasites. We expect that future studies deciphering the function of these neoblast-like cells will have important implications for understanding the biology of these devastating parasites.
Noisy integer maps

Abstract The combined effects of discretization and noise in iterated maps are studied with simulations and a transfer matrix technique. The resulting changes in a typical map's invariant distribution are illustrated.
Synthesis of the PZT films deposited on pt-coated (100) Si substrates for nonvolatile memory applications

Ferroelectric lead-zirconate-titanate (PZT) thin films were deposited by the pulsed laser deposition technique on Pt-coated (100) Si substrates. This study was focused on the investigation of the PZT film growth on (100) Si substrate at varying deposition parameters and electrical characterization of the films including hysteresis loop and fatigue properties by RT66A Standardized Ferroelectric Test System. PZT deposited at higher temperature (575°C in 450 mTorr O2 partial pressure) showed the best crystalline structure. The remnant polarization and the retained polarization of the ferroelectric capacitors were 13 µC/cm2 and 20 µC/cm2, respectively. The crystallographic properties of the films were determined using the x-ray diffractometer method. The cross-sectional transmission electron microscope results showed very smooth interfaces among different layers of films.
Ice Particles Observed in a Cirriform Cloud at −83°C and Implications for Polar Stratospheric Clouds

Abstract Mesurements obtained in a thin, cirriform cloud that formed in the temperature range of −83° to −84°C and an altitude range at 16.2 to 16.7 km are presented. Implications of the results for particle generation in polar stratospheric clouds developing with similar conditions are discussed.
A multiband statistical restoration of the Aqua MODIS 1.6 micron band

Currently, the MODIS instrument on the Aqua satellite has a number of broken detectors resulting in unreliable data for 1.6 micron band (band 6) measurements. Damaged detectors, transmission errors, and electrical failure are all vexing but seemingly unavoidable problems leading to line drop and data loss. Standard interpolation can often provide an acceptable solution if the loss is sparse. Interpolation, however, introduces a-priori assumptions about the smoothness of the data. When the loss is significant, as it is on MODIS/Aqua, interpolation creates statistically or physically implausible image values and visible artifacts. We have previously developed an algorithm to recreate the missing band 6 data from reliable data in the other 500m bands using a quantitative restoration. Our algorithm uses values in a spectral/spatial neighborhood of the pixel to be estimated, and proposes a value based on training data from the uncorrupted pixels. In this paper, we will present extensions of that algorithm that both improve the performance and robustness of the algorithm. We compare with prior work that just restores band 6 from band 7, and present statistical evidence that data from bands 3, 4, and 5 are also pertinent. We will demonstrate that the increased accuracy from our multi-band statistical estimate has significant consequences at the product level. As an example we show that the restored band 6 has potential benefit to the NASA snow mask for MODIS/Aqua when compared with using band 7 as a replacement for the damaged band 6.
LAPS/RAMS. A nonhydrostatic mesoscale numerical modeling system configured for operational use

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Forecast Systems Laboratory (FSL) has configured an operational local-domain analysis and forecast system designed to function in the local weather office on an inexpensive computer workstation. The real-time system utilizes the 10-km grid increment analyses from the Local Analysis and Prediction System (LAPS) to initialize the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS) mesoscale forecast model. A unique aspect of the LAPS/RAMS operational system is the initialization of the high-resolution model with comparable high-resolution analyses. The aim of the LAPS/RAMS real-time system is to provide local-scale guidance to the local weather office in addition to guidance that is currently available from coarser resolution, large-domain operational products. The operational system configuration and the utilization of three-dimensional visualization to display system output is discussed. All components of the LAPS/RAMS system are designed to run efficiently on a computer workstation affordable to individual weather forecast offices. Model validation results suggest that the LAPS/RAMS system is capable of resolving meso-β-scale, often terrain-forced, flow patterns. The three-dimensional visualization of the model output allows the operational forecaster to rapidly peruse the enormous amounts of data and aids the meteorologist's ability to comprehend and conceptualize mesoscale weather events. Potential improvements to the system are being implemented as computer workstation capabilities increase, which should lead to valuable forecast guidance of meso-γ-scale weather phenomena. DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0870.1995.00125.x
Disparate black and white neonatal mortality rates among infants of normal birth weight in Chicago: a population study.

To determine the extent to which disparities in risk status and access to tertiary care affect racial differences in neonatal mortality rates among normal birth weight infants, we conducted a vital records study concerning normal weight black (N=44,399) and white (N=48,146) singleton births in Chicago. Neonatal mortality rate among black infants was twice that among white infants (3.3 deaths per 1000 births vs 1.5 deaths per 1000 births); the unadjusted black relative risk equaled 2.2 (95% confidence interval, 1.7 to 2.9). Because prematurity, growth retardation, congenital anomalies, low Apgar scores at 5 minutes, teen-age mothers, and poverty were more common among black infants, multivariate analysis were performed. The disparity in mortality rate was greatest between black and white infants with none of these risk factors; relative risk for black infants equated 3.6 (95% confidence interval, 2.0 to 6.7). Approximately 30% of all deaths of black infants were attributable to birth in nontertiary hospitals. When the confounding variables, including hospital of birth, were put into a multivariate logistic-regression model, the adjusted relative risk estimate (odds ratio) for black infants equated 1.5 (95% confidence interval, 1.1 to 2.0). Traditional risk factors fall to explain the racial disparity in neonatal mortality rate among normal birth weight infants. Level of perinatal care available, or some factor closely related to this level, is an important determinant of neonatal chance of survival for normal birth weight urban black infants.
The sequence organization of bovine DNA

The organization of repetitive DNA sequences has been investigated in bovine DNA. Repetitive sequences of all kinds constitute 25% to 30% of the total. Five density satellites constitute about 20% of the genome, and most of the remainder consists of alternating repeating and nonrepeating sequences. The nonrepeating sequences have a very broad size distribution averaging 4,000 nucleotide pairs in length, with the longest exceeding 10,000 nucleotide pairs. The interspersed repetitive sequences are much more nearly homogeneous in size, averaging 350 nucleotide pairs in length, and are di- vided into 8 to 14 sequence families.
Cellular-dendritic transition in directionally solidified binary alloys

The microstructural development of binary alloys during directional solidification is studied. Cellular growth data for the Al-Cu and Pb-Sn binary alloy systems are analyzed in order evaluate the criteria of Kurz and Fisher (1981) and Trivedi (1984) for cellular-dendritic transition. It is observed that the experimental growth values do not correlate with the Kurz and Fisher or Trivedi data.
Cortical Folding of the Primate Brain: An Interdisciplinary Examination of the Genetic Architecture, Modularity, and Evolvability of a Significant Neurological Trait in Pedigreed Baboons (Genus Papio)

Folding of the primate brain cortex allows for improved neural processing power by increasing cortical surface area for the allocation of neurons. The arrangement of folds (sulci) and ridges (gyri) across the cerebral cortex is thought to reflect the underlying neural network. Gyrification, an adaptive trait with a unique evolutionary history, is affected by genetic factors different from those affecting brain volume. Using a large pedigreed population of ∼1000 Papio baboons, we address critical questions about the genetic architecture of primate brain folding, the interplay between genetics, brain anatomy, development, patterns of cortical–cortical connectivity, and gyrification’s potential for future evolution. Through Mantel testing and cluster analyses, we find that the baboon cortex is quite evolvable, with high integration between the genotype and phenotype. We further find significantly similar partitioning of variation between cortical development, anatomy, and connectivity, supporting the predictions of tension-based models for sulcal development. We identify a significant, moderate degree of genetic control over variation in sulcal length, with gyrus-shape features being more susceptible to environmental effects. Finally, through QTL mapping, we identify novel chromosomal regions affecting variation in brain folding. The most significant QTL contain compelling candidate genes, including gene clusters associated with Williams and Down syndromes. The QTL distribution suggests a complex genetic architecture for gyrification with both polygeny and pleiotropy. Our results provide a solid preliminary characterization of the genetic basis of primate brain folding, a unique and biomedically relevant phenotype with significant implications in primate brain evolution.
Dairy Youth Programming: Where We’ve Been, and Where We Go from Here

Abstract Total enrollment for the dairy project and 4-H was analyzed using the USDA Annual 4-H Youth Development Enrollment Report from 1985 to 1994. Enrollment of 4-H youth in the dairy project over this period has generally increased in a manner similar to that of total 4-H enrollment. Enrollment in the dairy project has increased from 77,937 in 1985 to 83,742 in 1994; enrollment in 4-H has increased from 4,728,549 to 5,600,087 during the same period. A review of historical data for dairy programming provided the basis for development of current activities and educational efforts for dairy youth. Many programs, such as dairy judging, continue to involve many youth. Enhancements to these traditional programs, such as more competitive sections in the national FFA dairy judging contest, have expanded the number of clientele reached by those programs. New programs and learning methods have allowed more youth from nonfarm backgrounds to participate and learn about dairy subjects. Managerial projects allow nonfarm youth to show dairy cattle. Video and CD-ROM formats allow youth to see material visually without using a dairy animal. Shifts in program delivery, such as incorporation of life skills in resource and educational materials, have met the needs of a changing clientele. There also has been increased emphasis on inclusion of biological and biotechnological components in programming efforts. Some high school youth now receive biology credit for agriculture classes. Staff and financial resources for dairy youth programming have tended to shrink over time, and many states have reacted to this decrease by increasing cooperative programming and by developing dairy funding programs through endowment funds or foundations.
Clinical and Immunologic Significance of Cholera-like Toxin and Cytotoxin Production by Campylobacter Species in Patients with Acute Inflammatory Diarrhea in the USA

The humoral immune response to both Campylobacter jejuni cell surface antigens and to potential toxins of the organism was studied in 64 adults with inflammatory diarrhea. In an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for surface antigens, 17 (71^o) of 24 persons with Campylobacter enteritis showed seroconversion in more than one immunoglobulin class, versus only 2 (5Vo) of 40 patients with non-Campylobacter enteritis. In a GMj ganglioside-based ELISA for detecting serum IgG to cholera-like enterotoxin, only one patient studied showed seroconversion to the enterotoxin. Of 22 Campylobacter isolates studied for production of cholera-like toxin, none of the supernatants from the Campylobacter strains were positive. Supernatants were also tested for enterotoxin and cytotoxic activity on Chinese hamster ovary cells; all isolates were negative for enterotoxin activity. In contrast, cytotoxin was produced by 7 (32^o) isolates but was usually low-level and was not neutralized by patient's serum. These findings indicate that production of cholera-like toxin and cytotoxin by Campylobacter strains in the United States occurs in few strains and that host immune response is absent; their biologic significance in the pathogenesis of Campylobacter infections remains unclear.
More on Computational Accuracy in Regression

Abstract Issue is taken with a previous article which examines Longley's analysis of computation error in regression models. Specifically, the singular value decomposition is used to analyze a set of data which relates to employment levels. This decomposition is used to analyze near multicollinearity in the data. It is suggested that a previous Monte Carlo study of this problem is noninformative, misleading, and possibly irrelevant.
How Different Are the Supermanifolds of Rogers and Dewitt

A DeWitt supermanifold always has the structure of a vector bundle over an ordinary spacetime manifold, whereas a Rogers supermanifold is not so restricted. Corresponding to the vector space fibers of the DeWitt supermanifold, a Rogers supermanifold has a foliation by submanifolds, or leaves, parametrized by soul coordinates only. We show that the universal covering space of any leaf always admits a flat metric. If the covering space is complete in this metric, it must in fact be a vector space. We combine this result with known theorems about foliations to give conditions under which a compact Rogers supermanifold with a single even dimension is necessarily a quotient space of flat superspace. We also show that a supermanifold defined by a polynomial equation in flat superspace is always of the DeWitt type. Finally, we exhibit new supermanifold structures forR 2 and the 2-torus which show that the foliation of a Rogers supermanifold can be quite exotic.
Decreased levels of protein kinase C enzyme activity and protein kinase C mRNA in primary colon tumors.

PURPOSE: We have previously reported decreased protein kinase C (PKC) enzyme activity in primary human colorectal carcinomas. The purpose of this study was to extend these findings to a larger number of cases and to also examine the levels of expression of mRNAs that encode specific isoforms of PKC in these tumors. METHODS: Colorectal carcinomas and paired grossly normal adjacent mucosal samples were collected from 39 patients. Complete histopathologic analyses were performed on all samples. PKC enzyme activity in both the cytosolic and particulate fractions was quantitated by measuring the amount of 32 P incorporated into histone Type III-S. Northern blot nucleic acid hybridization was performed using polyA + RNA extracted from both the tumor and normal tissue samples and 32 P-labeled probes for specific isoforms of PKC. The paired sample t-test was used to determine the statistical significance of tumor to normal ratios of both enzyme activity and mRNA levels. RESULTS: The mean value for cellular PKC enzyme activity in the colon tumors from 39 patients was about 60 percent of that found in the paired adjacent grossly normal mucosa samples (P<0.001). The subcellular distribution of PKC activity was similar in normal and tumor samples (about 70 percent in the particulate fraction). The abundance of PKCα mRNAs varied considerably among 28 tumor/normal pairs, with a mean tumor to normal (T∶N) ratio of 1.0±0.6 for the 99-kb mRNA band and 1.4±0.7 for the 3.5-kb band. The abundance of PKCβ mRNAs was decreased in 30 of 39 tumors, with a mean T∶N ratio of 0.6±0.4 for both the 94- and 3.5-kb bands for all 39 samples (P<0.001). None of the parameters measured correlated with Dukes stage or the grade of the tumor. CONCLUSIONS: These studies extend previous evidence that total PKC enzyme activity is frequently decreased in primary human colon tumors. Our finding that this is often associated with decreased levels of PKC β mRNA suggest that this is not simply due to posttranslational down-regulation of this enzyme system. Further studies are required to determine whether these changes in PKC α and PKC β mRNAs are due to altered de novo transcription or mRNA stability. It will also be of interest to examine the expression of other isoforms of PKC in colon tumors.
Cementing mediums and retentive characteristics of dowels.

A previous report has contributed information relative to dowel configuration and retention, primarily utilizing zinc phosphate cement.’ This study was initiated to provide dentists with guidelines for the retention of dowels employing various dental cements. Zinc phosphate, the traditional cement, was compared to the newer polycarboxylate and cyanoacrylate cements. Since, in the future, these new cements may have increased utilization, it seemed pertinent to demonstrate how they may fit into the dentist’s armamentarium for cementation of prefabricated dowels.
Influences of Comorbid Disorders on Personality Assessment Inventory Profiles in Women with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

The present study describes Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) profiles for women with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Four groups of women were sampled: single Axis I diagnosis of PTSD; PTSD and major depressive disorder (MDD); PTSD, MDD, at least one other Axis I disorder; and controls with no Axis I disorder. Higher comorbidity rates were associated with higher mean profile elevations and broader range of endorsed symptoms. The group with the highest rate of comorbidity produced profiles most similar to previously published reports of patients with PTSD. This is in contrast to women with a single diagnosis of PTSD, who produced relative mean elevations only on subscales measuring distress caused by trauma and physiological symptoms of depression. Thus, published profiles may be more reflective of PTSD with comorbidity than a single diagnosis of PTSD.
Variable mid-latitude X-ray source 3U0042+32

A celestial location with an error circle of radius one minute is reported for the mid-latitude X-ray source 3U 0042+32; comparison of observations from the Ariel-5 and Uhuru satellites with data obtained from two independent rotation modulation collimators yields the precise position. Studies to detect regular pulsations and energy spectra of the X-ray source are also discussed. Analysis of the peak X-ray flux in the error circle, as well as certain distance constraints, suggests that the source of the flux may be a neutron star in a distant galactic binary system having a companion that undergoes episodes of mass transfer due to eruption or orbital eccentricity.
A Comparative Study of the Nonlinear and Linear Performance of Vehicle Air Cushion Suspensions Using Bond Graph Models

A nonlinear analytical model for the dominant low-frequency dynamic behavior of flexible-skirt air cushion suspensions is developed using bond graph notation. The model includes nonlinear fluid source and orifice characteristics, and modulation of cushion fluid capacitance and sealing gap fluid resistance by changes in geometry and cushion pressure. Bond graphs are presented for the fully nonlinear cushion and for the linearized small perturbation case. Both the nonlinear and linearized equations for the heave dynamics of an air cushion vehicle are developed and solved by machine computation for a realistic range of operating conditions. By comparing the linear and nonlinear solutions, it is concluded that the linear model is suitable for the preliminary design and optimization of air cushion vehicle suspensions. The full nonlinear simulation is prudent, however, to check a tentative design for the effects of unusually large guideway irregularities or external load disturbances.
Enediyne Isomers of Tetraethynylethene

Three isomers of tetraethynylethene (1, C10H4) have been prepared by palladium-catalyzed Negishi coupling of a trimethylsilylbutadiynyl zinc reagent with a bromoalkene, followed by mild deprotection with potassium carbonate in methanol. The unsubstituted enynes, 3-ethynyloct-3-ene-1,5,7-triyne (2), trans-dec-5-ene-1,3,7,9-tetrayne (3), and cis-dec-5-ene-1,3,7,9-tetrayne (4), exhibit modest stability at −20 °C but decompose rapidly at room temperature. Electronic absorption spectra of 2, 3, and 4 reveal a characteristic vibronic progression at 260−320 nm. Spectral features at shorter wavelength discriminate among the isomers, and permit the assignment of 2 and 3 as apparent dimerization products of triplet carbene H−C⋮C−C−C⋮C−H in matrices at low temperature. Computed relative energies of these C10H4 isomers (MP2/6-31G*) are 1 (14.0 kcal/mol), 2 (6.8 kcal/mol), 3 (0.0 kcal/mol), and 4 (1.0 kcal/mol).
Nasty Nazis and Extreme Americans: Cloning, Eugenics, and the Exchange of National Signifiers in Contemporary Science Fiction

This article addresses German science fiction novels from the last ten to fifteen years, specifically those that thematize cloning and/or eugenics. The main novels under discussion include Die verbesserte Frau by Barbara Kirchner, Duplik Jonas 7 by Birgit Rabisch, and Blueprint/Blaupause by Charlotte Kerner, (which was released as a film adaptation starring Franka Potente in 2004). This discussion shows how these and similar novels do or do not contend with the legacy of Nazi eugenics and reproductive experimentation, and second, how the existent historical awareness in the novels relates to the content of debates on current issues of biotechnology, including those by Jurgen Habermas, Slavoj Zizek, and Peter Sloterdijk. The article concludes by bringing these debates to bear on cultural cross-referencing in comparative examples of American texts (Gattaca [1997], The Island [2005], to name two), which tend to imbue frightening aspects of reproductive technologies with signifiers of Nazism, while the German texts tend to implicate America as the future source of nightmarish reproductive possibilities.
The Relationship between Jugular Bulb–Vestibular Aqueduct Dehiscence and Hearing Loss in Pediatric Patients

Objective. To determine the prevalence of jugular bulb and vestibular aqueduct dehiscence (JBVAD) in pediatric patients undergoing temporal bone computed tomography (CT) scans and to assess the relationship between JBVAD and hearing loss.Study Design. Cross-sectional study with chart review.Setting. Tertiary academic medical center.Subjects and Methods. All patients 18 years of age or younger who had undergone temporal bone CT scans and audiometric testing between 2004 and 2009 were retrospectively reviewed. JBVAD was determined by blinded review of CT images. Hearing loss was determined by review of audiometric data and was correlated with imaging findings.Results. CT images and audiometric data were available for review in 927 patients (1854 ears). Overall prevalence of JBVAD was 8.6%, with a prevalence of 6.6% in right ears and 3.6% in left ears. JBVAD was present in 8.3% and 7.1% of patients with and without sensorineural or mixed hearing loss, respectively (95% confidence interval [CI], -2.3% to 4.6%...
Localization of gadolinium-loaded CPMV to sites of inflammation during central nervous system autoimmunity

Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows rapid non-invasive diagnosis of central nervous system (CNS) pathologies such as multiple sclerosis (MS). Current gadolinium-based contrast agents must be administered at high doses, are excreted by the kidney, and some formulations are associated with toxicity in patients with renal insufficiency. The development of nanoparticle carriers for targeted delivery of gadolinium to sites of disease would increase specificity, as well as decrease the dose of gadolinium required to obtain sufficient contrast for disease diagnosis. The plant virus, cowpea mosaic virus (CPMV), is a biocompatible nanoparticle platform for imaging applications. Gadolinium is rapidly incorporated into the interior of the CPMV capsid without disrupting particle integrity, and CPMV–Gd particles have relaxivity comparable to gadolinium chelates used clinically. Here we examine the ability of gadolinium-loaded CPMV particles (CPMV–Gd) to localize to lesions in the CNS in an animal model of MS, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). The in vivo distribution of gadolinium-loaded CPMV (CPMV–Gd) was examined within the periphery and central nervous system (CNS). CPMV accumulated in inflammatory lesions within the brain and spinal cord, and specifically associated with CD11b+ and CD11c+ cells. These results demonstrate that CPMV is an attractive nanoparticle chelate for gadolinium for in vivo applications and may have clinical utility as a contrast agent for the detection of autoimmune demyelinating diseases of the CNS.
Effect of Phase Separation on HF Etch Rate of Borosilicate Glasses

Etch rates of borosilicate glasses in HF were studied as a function of heat-treatment time and temperature for liquid-in-liquid phase separation. It is shown that, when the phase-separated glass has an interconnected microstructure, the composition of the chemically less durable phase is the dominant factor in HF durability. When the phase-separated glass has a dispersed alkali-borate-rich (chemically less durable) phase embedded in a silica-rich matrix, the HF etch rate is constant, independent of the extent of phase separation.
Halogenation of pyridine 1‐oxides

The chlorination and bromination of α-lithiopyridine 1-oxides has been studied. Only dihalogenated pyridine 1-oxides are formed. In the case of bromination dipyridyl derivatives are also formed, and, indeed, predominate. Chloromercuration of the lithiopyridine 1-oxides gave highly insoluble, unresolvable mixtures of pyridylmercury derivatives. These could be brominated readily to give mixtures of 2-bromo- and 2,6-dibromopyridine 1-oxides.
Genital blood flow measurement: Feedback applications in sexual therapy

Laboratory techniques are now available for measurement of both male and female genital engorgement during sexual arousal. When laboratory subjects are given information on their rate and amplitude of tumescence (biofeedback), they appear to acquire greater voluntary control of the response. Data from two experiments and a case study are presented to illustrate the application of biofeedback in both facilitation and suppression of penile responding. A PhD student is currently conducting analogous research with female subjects. Clinicians are cautioned against careless application of biofeedback techniques for the treatment of erectile inadequacies.
Systematic Design Method for Information Modeling in CAD/CAE

As engineering systems are increasingly becoming more complex, the need for information models is growing accordingly. Extensive research is currently underway to develop engineering data management capabilities and to understand the role of information as a systems integrator. In order to develop information models more effectively, a systematic methodology is needed to better manage data and develop information models. In the area of CAD/CAE/CAM applications, an information gap exists between design models and analysis models. To this end, a multi-representational architecture (MRA) is presented to facilitate the transformation of information from design models to various support analysis models. In this paper, our primary focus is on ABBs (Analysis Building Blocks) for solid mechanics and thermal systems that generate FEA (Finite Element Analysis) SMMs (Solution Method Models) to obtain their results. Our focus in this paper is to investigate the effectiveness of the Pahl and Beitz methodology in developing the ABB information model. The Pahl and Beitz design methodology is intended for physical product design applications. Three of the four phases of the Pahl and Beitz methodology are examined and modified to facilitate development of the ABB information model. The augmentations of these phases are presented in this paper. The results of the development of concepts of ABB information model using the Pahl and Beitz methodology support the use of systematic design methodologies for the development of information models. The emphasis of this work is on the methodology used to develop the ABB information model rather than the technical result of the ABB model.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Satellite Estimates of Precipitation-Induced Dissipation in the Atmosphere

A substantial amount of frictional dissipation in the atmosphere occurs in the microphysical shear zones surrounding falling precipitation. The dissipation rate is computed here from recently available satellite retrieval from the Tropical Rainfall Measurement Missions and is found to average 1.8 watts per square meter between 30°S and 30°N. The geographical distribution of the precipitation-induced dissipation is closely tied to that of precipitation but also reveals a stronger dissipation rate for continental convection than for maritime convection. Because the precipitation-induced dissipation is of the same magnitude as the turbulent dissipation of the kinetic energy in the atmosphere, changes in the hydrological cycle could potentially have a direct impact on the amount of kinetic energy generated and dissipated by the atmospheric circulation.
Short-term Histopathology Effects of Gamma Knife Radiosurgery on a Vestibular Schwannoma

Radiosurgery is a popular management strategy for vestibular schwannoma (VS), with approximately one-third of patients being treated with this modality today. The goal in radiosurgery is to halt tumor growth. Tumor growth control rates range from 70% to 97%.1 The direct effect of radiation on tumor cells is DNA damage, triggering apoptosis. Immediate or delayed cell death may occur, depending on whether the cell is actively dividing. Because of the benign and slow-growing nature of VS, this effect may not account for the cumulative effect of radiation. Radiation also induces vascular damage, leading to ischemia and cell death. In a series of 5 patients who had microsurgical resection after stereotactic radiation, immunohistochemistry using antibodies directed against the vascular endothelial markers, factor VIII and CD34, demonstrated decreased staining with increasing isodoses and no staining at the tumor center.1 Damage to the vascular endothelial cells occurs 2 to 4 months after radiation. Here, we show results of a histological/immunohistochemical investigation of a VS tumor 5 months following treatment with radiosurgery. While prior studies have shown long-term radiation effects, this case represents a unique view into the short-term biological effects of schwannoma gamma knife irradiation, which may provide clues to radiation failure, tumor regrowth, and potential strategies for tumor control.
ANGULAR DISTRIBUTIONS AND YIELDS OF NEUTRONS FROM (p,n) REACTIONS

Angular distributions of neutrons from ($p, n$) reactions on Mg, Al, Cu, Mo, Ag, Ta, Au, Th, and U were measured for 23-Mev protons incident on thick targets. All angular distributions show peaks in the forward direction; except for Mg and Al, the $\frac{0\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}}{180\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}}$ intensity ratios vary from 5 to 15 for \ensuremath{\sim}13-Mev neutrons, and from 1.3 to 5 for \ensuremath{\sim}8-Mev neutrons. The Mg and Al high-energy data show minima and secondary maxima. Yield determinations indicate that the number of neutrons per nuclear reaction increases with atomic number from about 0.25 for Mg and Al to about 2.0 for most heavy elements and more than 4 for Th and U (probably due to fission). Temperatures of the neutron energy distributions are estimated; for the heavy elements at the backward angles, they are about 0.85 Mev at 3-Mev neutron energy, and about 1.9 Mev at 10-Mev neutron energy. It is concluded that direct interactions are of considerable importance in these reactions.
Clinical implications of endothelial dysfunction

Endothelial dysfunction is increasingly recognized as an early event in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. This observation is consistent with the growing appreciation of the role of endothelium in maintaining cardiovascular health. Endothelial dysfunction and coronary artery disease are both linked to hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes mellitus, and cigarette smoking. Modification of these conditions improves both endothelial function and coronary artery disease outcomes. Dietary and lifestyle modifications and antioxidant vitamin supplementation have a beneficial effect on endothelial function, as do angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and lipid-lowering agents. Future studies will determine whether interventions that specifically target endothelial dysfunction can reduce rates of clinical disease.
Human immunodeficiency virus‐associated prostate cancer: clinicopathological findings and outcome in a multi‐institutional study

OBJECTIVE To characterize the clinicopathological findings and the outcome of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients diagnosed and treated for prostate carcinoma, as HIV-positive men being treated with highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) are living longer and thus are more likely to develop cancers such as prostate cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS We performed a retrospective, multi-institutional study involving HIV-positive men with concomitant prostate carcinoma. We collected data regarding patient demographics (age, race), HIV status (CD4+ cell count, HIV viral load, HAART), PSA level (at cancer diagnosis), symptoms and signs, radiological findings, pathology (Gleason score, stage), cancer treatment (type, side-effects), and outcome (response, survival). Accrued data was analysed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS We identified 17 patients (mean age 59 years) with HIV-associated prostate adenocarcinoma. The mean CD4+ count was 336 cells/mm3 and the mean HIV viral load was 17 319 copies/mL. In all, 14 (82%) of these men were receiving HAART. Most patients were diagnosed with carcinoma after an abnormal screening PSA level. The mean PSA level was 30 ng/mL. Only six (35%) men had an abnormal prostate on examination. The mean Gleason score was 6.8, and in most cases, cancer was confined to the prostate gland. Most patients were amenable to curative treatment with hormonal therapy, radiation, and/or prostatectomy. There were no serious treatment related side-effects. One patient remained untreated. All treated patients had a complete response (undetectable PSA level). Most patients were long-term survivors. Documented death in five cases was unrelated to prostate cancer. CONCLUSION The management of HIV-positive men with prostate carcinoma in the HAART era is becoming increasingly important. Our data shows that in men receiving HAART, their age, PSA levels, clinical presentation, management, and outcome from treated prostate carcinoma does not appear to be significantly altered by HIV status. Therefore, we recommend that patients with prostate cancer and well-controlled HIV viraemia be managed similarly to their HIV-negative counterparts.
Investigating Aspects of Customer Satisfaction at the C-Store: The C-Store Product Mix and Image

ABSTRACT A recent investigation into the convenience store (c-store) product mix called for further research into c-store customers' preferences for additional product offerings and non-c-store shoppers' reasons for not patronizing a c-store. This paper answers that call by investigating a cross-section of c-store customers to identify their perceptions of product offerings to expand the c-store's product mix and in turn increase customer satisfaction. In addition, this study explores c-store non-users' perceptions of the c-store image to understand why they do not patronize c-stores. Fourteen products were examined. Of the fourteen, only one was rated very likely to be purchased: postal services. The top three reasons provided for not patronizing a c-store were (1) inconvenient location, (2) high prices and (3) loyalty to other retailers. Suggestions for future research are provided.
Ultrafast Optical Beam Deflection in a GaAs Planar Waveguide by a Transient, Optically-Induced Prism Array

We demonstrate a novel, ultrafast single-shot optical beam deflection technique based on an array of transient, optically induced prisms within a GaAs planar waveguide, enabling experimental measurement of signals with sub 3 ps temporal resolution.
2D Photonic-crystals for high spectral conversion efficiency in solar thermophotovoltaics

We present a novel solar thermophotovoltaic (STPV) device, which for the first time, incorporates a two-dimensional photonic-crystal (2D PhC) absorber-emitter to achieve spectral conversion efficiencies >10%. These results were achieved by tailoring the spectral properties of the absorber-emitter through surface nanostructuring of tantalum (Ta) and minimizing parasitic thermal losses through an innovative vacuum-enclosed experimental setup. By incorporating a sub-bandgap photon reflecting filter on the PV surface and optimizing the absorber-emitter ratio, we present how the demonstrated 2D Ta PhCs enable a realistic STPV configuration to exceed the Shockley-Queisser ultimate efficiency of a 0.55 eV cell.
Plasmapheresis for diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in a patient with Wegener's granulomatosis: case report and review of the literature.

We present a case of a 20-year-old male with Wegener's Granulomatosis involving the upper respiratory tract, lungs, and kidneys. In his fourth hospital admission, the patient presented with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage and poor pulmonary function: FiO2 of 100% and PEEP of 17cm H2O on intubation. Due to a fast clinical deterioration while receiving drug therapy (cyclophosphamide and methylprednisolone), we performed nine daily 1-volume therapeutic plasma exchanges (TPE) using 5% albumin as replacement fluid. TPE resulted in a decrease in cytoplasmic anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibodies (c-ANCA) titer from 1:1,024 to 1:16. On the ninth day of plasmapheresis, his pulmonary status was markedly improved with FiO2 of 60% and PEEP of 8 cm H2O. The patient was later extubated and discharged home in stable condition. Wegener's Granulomatosis with pulmonary hemorrhage is not included in the current guidelines for therapeutic apheresis; therefore, we report this case and, if warranted, propose this condition to be included in the guidelines. J Clin Apheresis 2005. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Ascitic fluid acidosis in bacterial peritonitis: A poor prognostic sign?

The aim of this retrospective study was to define prognostic factors for cure and survival after spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. In a 4-year period from 1982 to 1986, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis wasdiagnosed in 38 consecutive hospitalized cirrhotic patients (positive ascites culture and polymorphonuclear cell concentrations greater than 250 cells per mm3). Twenty-five patients recovered from their infection (69 p. 100) in a mean time of 9 ± 7 days. The cumulative survival was 68 p. 100 at one week, 50 p. 100 at one month, and 25 p. 100 at one year. The best independant prognostic factors for lack of cure from peritonitis were a low ascitic pH value (p < 0.001), an elevated serum creatinine level (p = 0.001), an elevated serum creatinine level (p = 0.01) and the presence of hepatocellular carcinoma (p < 0.05). The best prognostic factors for death were low ascitic pH value (p = 0.001) and gastrointestinal hemorrhage (p = 0.005). A low ascitic pH value was correlated with other signs of severe infection (signs of generalized infection, ongoing infection during the first week after diagnosis), with signs of severe liver disease (encephalopathy, hepatocellular carcinoma) or severe renal dysfunction (high serum creatinine level, low arterial pH value). Because of the late high-death rate associated with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, liver transplantation should be considered in these patients.
Posttraumatic stress in adolescents with asthma and their parents.

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptoms in adolescents with and without asthma and their parents and the relationship between PTS symptoms and asthma morbidity. Method: Three groups of adolescents (12-18 years) participated: adolescents who had experienced a life-threatening asthma episode (n = 49), asthma controls (n = 71), and healthy controls (n = 80). Adolescents completed the UCLA PTSD Reaction Index, Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children, and Reynolds Depression Inventory. Parents completed the Impact of Events Scale-Revised, Brief Symptom Inventory, and Asthma Functional Morbidity Scale. Results: Twenty percent of adolescents with life-threatening asthma met criteria for PTSD compared with 11% of the asthma controls and 8% of the normal controls. Twenty-nine percent of parents of adolescents with life-threatening asthma met criteria for PTSD compared with 14% of parents of asthma controls and 2% of normal controls. Adolescent PTS symptoms accounted for 5% of the variance in functional asthma morbidity even after controlling for disease severity and other anxiety and depressive symptoms (β = .26). Conclusions: Adolescents with asthma and their parents, particularly those who have experienced a life-threatening event, have high levels of PTS symptoms that are linked to asthma morbidity. Interventions to improve asthma outcomes should include assessment and treatment of trauma and PTS symptoms.
The optical, photothermal, and facile surface chemical properties of gold and silver nanoparticles in biodiagnostics, therapy, and drug delivery

Nanotechnology is a rapidly growing area of research in part due to its integration into many biomedical applications. Within nanotechnology, gold and silver nanostructures are some of the most heavily utilized nanomaterial due to their unique optical, photothermal, and facile surface chemical properties. In this review, common colloid synthesis methods and biofunctionalization strategies of gold and silver nanostructures are highlighted. Their unique properties are also discussed in terms of their use in biodiagnostic, imaging, therapeutic, and drug delivery applications. Furthermore, relevant clinical applications utilizing gold and silver nanostructures are also presented. We also provide a table with reviews covering related topics.