cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Structural and functional neuroimaging in Alzheimer's disease

Abstract The evolution of neuroimaging technics has improved our understanding of both gross structural and physiological alterations associated with normal aging and with Alzheimer's disease. We share the optimistic view that neuroimaging will contribute to the development of antemortem markers for AD. Current CT and MRI technics allow for direct parenchymal sampling in addition to quantitating CSF distributions. Such studies followed to postmortem will yield the evidence regarding the diagnostic utility of the imaged parenchymal changes. Metabolic neuroimaging using PET and tracers for glycolytic metabolism have already contributed to our understanding of the pathophysiology of AD and its relationship to clinical symptoms. We can look forward to further advances with specific tracers for brain receptor populations and other metabolic pathways.
Homology among RAPD fragments in interspecific comparisons

The use of RAPDs for comparative purposes relies on the assumption that similarity of fragment size is a dependable indicator of homology. To test the validity of this assumption, homology among 220 pairs of comigrating fragments from three wild sunflower species was determined. Ninety-one per cent cross-hybridized and/or displayed congruent restriction fragment profiles suggestive of homology. However, comparative linkage mapping data indicated that 13% of the homologous loci mapped to genomic locations that were incongruent with the majority of loci, suggestive of paralogous rather than orthologous relationships. Thus, of the 220 pairwise comparisons, only 174 (79.1%) identified loci that are useful for comparative genetic studies. These problems, as well as several other factors discussed in the text, will introduce noise into RAPD data sets and thereby reduce the probability of generating accurate estimates of genetic relationships. Recommended methods for reducing noise in RAPD data sets include increasing gel resolution and/or testing fragment homology. However, implementation of these approaches will not eliminate all uncertainties, and it is also recommended that RAPD data sets be tested for structure and reliability.
Improving Protein and Vitamin D Status of Obese Patients Participating in Physical Rehabilitation

Purpose Sarcopenia and vitamin D deficiency increase risk of disability outcomes associated with a million hip and knee replacements annually. The purpose of the present study was to identify protein and vitamin D inadequacy in arthroplasty patients, and observe the effect of supplementation on metabolic markers on protein and vitamin D status. Methods One hundred and eighty obese arthroplasty patients admitted for inpatient rehabilitation, positive for protein and vitamin D insufficiency, received supplemental protein and vitamin D. Results and Conclusion Following supplementation, normalization of protein and vitamin D status was achieved. Nutrient supplementation during physical rehabilitation provided an efficient and effective means to reverse nutrient deficiency in an obese, orthopedic population. Clinical Relevance Inpatient physical rehabilitation is an opportune environment for nurses to provide education and intervention of nutrient supplementation, which may lessen consequences of sarcopenic obesity and related frailty disorders.
Slit-lamp studies of the rhesus monkey eye: H. changes in crystalline lens shape, thickness and position during accommodation and aging

Changes in crystalline lens shape and axial thickness, anterior chamber depth and anterior cornea-posterior lens distance during accommodation induced by corneal iontophoresis of carbachol or electrical stimulation of the Edinger-Westphal nucleus were studied in 25 living, surgically aniridic rhesus monkey eyes, aged 1–25 years. Intraocular distances and anterior and posterior lens surface curvatures were evaluated from slit-lamp Scheimpflug photographs; distances were also determined by A-scan ultrasonography. With increasing accommodation, both lens surfaces become more sharply curved, the lens thickens and the anterior chamber shallows, while the posterior lens surface remains fixed relative to the cornea. Within statistical limits, the respective curvature and distance changes are the same for a given dioptric accommodation induced by either stimulation technique. The respective intraocular distance-accommodation relationships are identical whether derived from photographic or ultrasonographic measurements. Temporal and contralateral reproducibility of all measurements is excellent. Each parameter-accommodation relationship is strikingly linear in all eyes, although above 20 D the slopes of the lens surface curvature-accommodation relationships may have decreased. The curvature change per D of accommodation averages ∼ 20% more for the posterior than for the anterior lens surface. There is relatively little interindividual variation in the slope of each relationship despite the significant interindividual differences in age and accommodative amplitude, indicating that the relationships are independent of age. However, when extrapolated back to the non-accommodated resting state, the data indicate that the lens thickens, both its surfaces become more sharply curved, and the anterior chamber shallows with age in adult > 5 years, while opposite trends are seen in younger animals.
Macromolecular crystallography beamline X25 at the NSLS

Beamline X25 at the NSLS is one of the five beamlines dedicated to macromolecular crystallography operated by the Brookhaven National Laboratory Macromolecular Crystallography Research Resource group. This mini-gap insertion-device beamline has seen constant upgrades for the last seven years in order to achieve mini-beam capability down to 20 µm × 20 µm. All major components beginning with the radiation source, and continuing along the beamline and its experimental hutch, have changed to produce a state-of-the-art facility for the scientific community.
Engineered Low Temperature Hydrothermal Synthesis of Phase-Pure Lead-Based Perovskites Using Ethylenediamine Tetra-acetic Acid Complexation

Thermodynamic modeling of hydrothermal solutions was used to examine the influence of ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid (EDTA) on the synthesis of lead-based perovskites, PbTiO3 and PbZr0.52Ti0.48O...
Determination of carbon balances for smog chamber terpene oxidation experiments using a 14C tracer technique

In the last decade, numerous studies of monoterpene hydrocarbons in the presence of ozone and oxides of nitrogen have been completed. Although insights about the reactivity of terpenes have been gained, and several products have been identified in the gas and aerosol phases, carbon balances have been generally poor. This paper describes a radiotracer technique which accounts for carbon-containing compounds in a smog chamber at the conclusion of a photooxidation or ozonolysis reaction. Instead of attempting to identify individual products, gas-phase compounds were separated from aerosols, and each phase was analyzed by a liquid scintillation counter. A carbon balance of 79 to 97% was obtained with 14C-α-pinene and ozone using this technique. The significance of the results are discussed in terms of the 14C-α-pinene concentrations used in this study, which were lower than concentrations used previously by one to four orders of magnitude. In spite of the lower concentrations, the gaseous and aerosol fractions observed in the present investigation are comparable to those observed by others. Possible reaction products are discussed with respect to likely mechanisms for α-pinene oxidation.
Notation for complex "part" functions

Five proposals are presented for denoting the real part, imaginary part, magnitude, and phase of complex numbers in APL. The purpose of this paper is to stimulate a discussion in the APL community before the appearance of the first implementation of complex APL renders such a discussion academic.
Recent Negative Ion Source Developments

This report describes recent results obtained from studies associated with the development of negative ion sources which utilize sputtering in a diffuse cesium plasma as a means of ion beam generation. Data are presented which relate negative ion yield and important operational parameters such as cesium oven temperature and sputter probe voltage from each of the following sources: 1) A source based in principle according to the University of Aarhus design and 2) an axial geometry source. The important design aspects of the sources are given - along with a list of the negative ion intensities observed to date. Also a qualitative description and interpretation of the negative ion generation mechanism in sources which utilize sputtering in the presence of cesium is given.
Factors relating to education professionals’ classroom practices for the inclusion of students with autism spectrum disorders

Abstract It is essential to understand the current practices used to foster inclusive education for students with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) as well as factors related to the implementation of classroom interventions. In the current study authors assess the experience, knowledge, attitudes and current practices of education professionals regarding ASD. Results suggest that special education teachers and school psychologists hold higher levels of experience, training, and knowledge as compared to general education teachers and administrators. Attitudes towards inclusive education for students with ASD were positive, in general, although attitudes were not a significant predictor of awareness or use of empirically supported interventions. Implications and future directions are discussed.
Rotational Buoyancy Effects on Heat Transfer in Five Different Aspect-Ratio Rectangular Channels With Smooth Walls and 45Degree Ribbed Walls

This paper experimentally studies the effects of the buoyancy force and channel aspect ratio (W:H) on heat transfer in two-pass rotating rectangular channels with smooth walls and 45 deg ribbed walls. The channel aspect ratios include 4:1, 2:1, 1:1, 1:2, and 1:4. Four Reynolds numbers are studied: 5000, 10,000, 25,000, and 40,000. The rotation speed is fixed at 550 rpm for all tests, and for each channel, two channel orientations are studied: 90 deg and 45 or 135 deg, with respect to the plane of rotation. The maximum inlet coolant-to-wall density ratio (Δρ/ρ) inlet is maintained around 0.12. Rib turbulators are placed on the leading and trailing walls of the channels at an angle of 45 deg to the flow direction. The ribs have a 1.59 by 1.59 mm square cross section, and the rib pitch-to-height ratio (P/e) is 10 for all tests. Under the fixed rotation speed (550 rpm) and fixed inlet coolant-to-wall density ratio (0.12), the local buoyancy parameter is varied with different Reynolds numbers, local rotating radius, local coolant-to-wall density ratio, and channel hydraulic diameter. The effects of the local buoyancy parameter and channel aspect ratio on the regional Nusselt number ratio are presented. The results show that increasing the local buoyancy parameter increases the Nusselt number ratio on the trailing surface and decreases the Nusselt number ratio on the leading surface in the first pass for all channels. However, the trend of the Nusselt number ratio in the second pass is more complicated due to the strong effect of the 180 deg turn. Results are also presented for this critical turn region of the two-pass channels. In addition to these regions, the channel averaged heat transfer, friction factor, and thermal performance are determined for each channel. With the channels having comparable Nusselt number ratios, the 1:4 channel has the superior thermal performance because it incurs the least pressure penalty.
Organization of amygdaloid projections to brainstem dopaminergic, noradrenergic, and adrenergic cell groups in the rat.

The distribution of amygdaloid axons in the various brainstem dopaminergic, noradrenergic, and adrenergic cell groups was examined. This was accomplished by means of the Phaseolus vulgaris leucoagglutinin lectin (PHA-L) anterograde tracing technique combined with glucose-oxidase immunocytochemistry to catecholamine markers (i.e., tyrosine hydroxylase, dopamine beta hydroxylase, and phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase). Injections of PHA-L in the medial part of the central amygdaloid nucleus resulted in axonal and terminal labeling in most catecholamine cell groups in the brainstem. Amygdaloid terminals appeared to contract catecholaminergic cells in several brainstem regions. The most heavily innervated catecholaminergic cells were the A9 (lateral) and A8 dopaminergic cell groups and the C2/A2 adrenergic/noradrenergic cell groups in the nucleus of the solitary tract. The medial part of the A9 and adjacent A10 dopaminergic cell groups was moderately innervated. A moderate innervation by amygdaloid terminals was observed on rostral locus coeruleus noradrenergic cells (A6 rostral) and adrenergic cells of the rostral ventrolateral medulla (C1). Noradrenergic cells of the A5, main body of the locus coeruleus (A6), A7, and subcoeruleus were sparsely innervated. Amygdaloid axons were not observed on noradrenergic neurons of the A4 cell group, area postrema, and A1 cells of the ventrolateral medulla. The results demonstrate that the amygdala primarily innervates the dopaminergic cells of midbrain (i.e., A8 and lateral A9 cells) and the adrenergic cells (C2) and noradrenergic (A2) cells in the nucleus of the solitary tract. The possible functional significance of amygdaloid innervation of catecholaminergic cells is discussed.
New results from the RD52 (DREAM) project

Abstract Simultaneous detection of the Cherenkov light and scintillation light produced in hadron showers makes it possible to measure the electromagnetic shower fraction event by event and thus eliminate the detrimental effects of fluctuations in this fraction on the performance of calorimeters. In the RD52 (DREAM) project, the possibilities of this dual-readout calorimetry are investigated and optimized. In this talk, the latest results of this project will be presented. These results concern the performance of a matrix of molybdenum doped lead tungstate crystals built for this purpose, new data on the application of the polarization of Cherenkov light in this context, and the first test results of prototype modules for the new full-scale fiber calorimeter.
Three membrane-proximal amino acids in the human parainfluenza type 2 (HPIV 2) F protein are critical for fusogenic activity

In this study, we investigated the role of the membrane-proximal region of the human parainfluenza virus type 2 (HPIV2) F protein by mutational analysis, including deletion, insertion, and substitution. Deletion or replacement of the entire 12 amino acid region (aa 474-485) of the HPIV2 F protein completely abolished its fusion activity when coexpressed with the HPIV2 HN protein. Deletion of groups of four of aa 478-485, single alanine, or other amino acid substitutions among aa 478-485 had minimal or limited effects on HPIV2 F/HN-induced cell fusion. However, a significant reduction in, or complete inhibition of, fusion activity was observed when aa 474-477 were deleted, or the N475, F476, or F477 residues were singly substituted with alanine. In addition, insertions of four amino acids at this region or deletion of eight or more amino acids significantly reduced F protein fusion activity. The oligomerization patterns and levels of cell surface expression of the mutant F proteins were compared to those of the wild-type HPIV2 F protein. The mutant HPIV2 F proteins defective in fusion were also found to be unable to initiate hemifusion, indicating that there is a specific requirement for three specific amino acids as well as the spacing in this region for initiating lipid mixing.
Selection and context scoping for digital video collections: an investigation of youtube and blogs

Digital curators are faced with decisions about what part of the ever-growing, ever-evolving space of digital information to collect and preserve. The recent explosion of web video on sites such as YouTube presents curators with an even greater challenge - how to sort through and filter a large amount of information to find, assess and ultimately preserve important, relevant, and interesting video. In this paper, we describe research conducted to help inform digital curation of on-line video. Since May 2007, we have been monitoring the results of 57 queries on YouTube related to the 2008 U.S. presidential election. We report results comparing these data to blogs that point to candidate videos on YouTube and discuss the effects of query-based harvesting as a collection development strategy.
Placental apoptosis in preeclampsia.

Objective: To determine whether preeclampsia is associated with an increase in placental apoptosis and differential expression of mediators of apoptosis. Methods: Placental samples from 31 preeclamptic women and 31 normotensive controls were analyzed using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick-end labeling staining. Expression of Fas, Fas ligand, Bcl-2, and Bax was assessed using immunohistochemistry. Results: The median percent apoptotic nuclei was significantly higher for the study group than for the controls (0.49 versus 0.19; P = .001), as was the median percent apoptotic nuclei in the trophoblast nuclei (0.33 versus 0.09; P < .01). Fas ligand expression was significantly less and Fas expression significantly greater in the villus trophoblast among the study subjects compared with controls. There was no difference in the expression of Bax or Bcl-2 between groups. Conclusion: Placental apoptosis and altered expression of Fas and Fas ligand in trophoblast might influence pathogenesis or sequelae of preeclampsia.
TOF SIMS characterization of SEI layer on battery electrodes

Abstract In the last decade, many studies applied surface analysis techniques (SEM, XPS and SIMS) to understand the formation of SEI layers on Li-ion battery electrodes. This work was meant as a comparative model study of the SEI layer formation, which combined in situ SEM imaging with TOF SIMS depth profiling of four samples of the same graphite electrode material, which was subjected to different charge–discharge cycling schemes in a Li-ion battery. Besides comparing compositions of sub-surface regions of these differently processed electrodes, we wanted to know whether these compositions depend on after-cycling sample preparation, in particular if a brief exposure of these samples to air would affect the compositions measured by TOF SIMS. We found that the exposure to air (1) increases secondary ion yield for all species, and (2) changes shapes of SIMS depth profiles for some key species. For selected samples, we also conducted a comparison between the conventional single beam TOF-SIMS depth profiling and a high resolution dual beam depth profiling and found that the former approach can detect the same features in depth profiles as the latter one. We interpreted this as an indication that the sample surface morphology (high roughness) could be a limiting factor in this SEI study, suggesting that specially designed model samples with smooth surfaces are a better choice for future studies.
A Novel, Bright Blue Electroluminescent Polymer: A Diphenylanthracene Derivative

A blue electroluminescent polymer containing 9,10-diphenylanthracenevinylenephenylene and alkylene block in the main chain was prepared by the Wittig reaction. A single-layer electroluminescent dev...
Mechanisms of glucose uptake in intestinal cell lines: role of GLUT2.

Background GLUT2 is translocated to the apical membrane of enterocytes exposed to glucose concentrations >∼50 mM. Mechanisms of GLUT2-mediated glucose uptake in cell culture models of enterocytes have not been studied. Aim To explore mechanism(s) of glucose uptake in 3 enterocyte-like cell lines. Methods Glucose uptake was measured in Caco-2, RIE-1, and IEC-6 cell lines using varying concentrations of glucose (0.5–50 mM). Effects of phlorizin (SGLT1 inhibitor), phloretin (GLUT2 inhibitor), nocodazole and cytochalasin B (disrupters of cytoskeleton), calphostin C and chelerythrine (PKC inhibitors), and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PKC activator) were evaluated. Results Phlorizin inhibited glucose uptake in all 3 cell lines. Phloretin inhibited glucose uptake in Caco-2 and RIE-1 cells. Starving cells decreased glucose uptake in Caco-2 and RIE-1 cells. Glucose uptake was saturated at >10 mM glucose in all 3 cell lines when exposed briefly ( 5 min in Caco-2 and RIE-1 cells, glucose uptake did not saturate and Km and Vmax increased. This increase in glucose uptake was inhibited by phloretin, nocodazole, cytochalasin B, calphostin C, and chelerythrine. PMA enhanced glucose uptake by 20%. Inhibitors and PMA had little or no effect in the IEC-6 cells. Conclusion Constitutive expression of GLUT2 in the apical membrane along with additional translocation of cytoplasmic GLUT2 to the apical membrane via an intact cytoskeleton and activated PKC appears responsible for enhanced carrier-mediated glucose uptake at greater glucose concentrations (>20 mM) in Caco-2 and RIE-1 cells. IEC-6 cells do not appear to express functional GLUT2.
Impact of contrast-enhanced CT and MRI on the management of patients with neurological diseases.

Even though a thorough clinical examination by a welltrained neurologist can very often determine precisely the extent of neurological deficits in a given patient, additional information is often needed to optimize treatment. Indeed, as many disease entities are becoming treatable due to improvements in pharmacology, surgical techniques and endovascular methods, we as neuroradiologists must position ourselves more clearly and be able to provide acutely precise information regarding not just the nature of the lesion but also the potential outcome of any given treatment. The main areas that come to mind are cerebrovascular diseases, brain tumors [1] and inflammatory diseases where contrast agents have greatly improved our insight into the acute pathological processes that occur in the diseased brain. While we as radiologists are aware of the importance of these techniques, we have to further explore their implications on patient management and outcome in order to position ourselves in relation to other physicians as indispensable partners in the ongoing clinical decision-making process. Brain imaging was initially revolutionized by the development of CT. This was succeeded by MRI. These two techniques have over the last two decades continued to evolve and have become invaluable tools for the management of patients with neurological diseases. As regards cerebrovascular diseases, both MRI and CT have undergone important evolutionary steps over the last few years due to the widespread availability of perfusion techniques. Similarly, with the emergence of high-powered MR gradients and MR angiography, it became possible to perform neurovascular imaging from the aortic arch to the circle of Willis in one session [2]. The advent of diffusion techniques, perfusion imaging and MR spectroscopy also led to improvements in MRI; these improvements have themselves been improved by the continual increase in magnetic field strength over the years. More recently, with the advent of faster spiral scanners and with the development of multirow detectors, CT technology has caught up and now also allows neuroangiographic examinations to be performed that rival conventional digital subtraction angiographic techniques. Once these technological hardware considerations had been addressed, it was obvious that contrast media would also be able to contribute to the improvement in image quality and thus finally to improved patient management. This we were able to see at a satellite symposium organized by
Experimentally induced abutment strains in three types of single-molar implant restorations

Abstract Statement of Problem. The choice of single-molar implant design is difficult because of a lack of controlled, quantitative biomechanical analyses. Purpose. This study determined the effect of 3 single-molar implant designs on implant strains under a variety of homologous loading conditions. Material and Methods. On each implant abutment, 4 strain gauges were placed axially at 90 degrees to each other on the buccal, lingual, mesial, and distal surfaces. Effects of implant design, load location, direction, and magnitude were tested on axial and bending (buccolingual and mesiodistal) strains of 3 single-molar implant designs: (1) single, 3.75-mm (regular) diameter implant, (2) single, 5-mm (wide) diameter implant, and (3) two 3.75-mm diameter (double) implants connected through a single-molar crown. Results were analyzed with ANOVA. Results. Variations in loading conditions induced 3-dimensionally complex abutment strains on the tested implant designs. Peak absolute strains in mesiodistal direction were 6493 μe for design 1 and 3958 μe on design 2, and 3160 μe in buccolingual direction on design 3. For all loading conditions, the single 3.75-mm diameter implant consistently experienced the largest strains compared with wide-diameter and double implant designs. Changes in centric contact location affected implant abutment strains differently among the 3 designs. Angulated force direction resulted in larger bending strains. Conclusion. For single-molar implant designs, an increase in implant number and diameter may effectively reduce experimental implant abutment strains. (J Prosthet Dent 2000;84:318-26.)
Nano-scale reactants in the self-propagating high-temperature synthesis of nickel aluminide

The ignition and combustion behaviors of nickel (Ni) and aluminum (Al) thermites were studied as a function of Al particle size. In particular, nano-scale Ni/Al composites were compared to micron-scale Ni/Al composites. Laser ignition experiments were performed on pressed Ni/Al pellets to determine ignition time and temperature as a function of Al particle size. Flame propagation behavior and burn rates were also examined using high-speed diagnostics. Results show that nano-scale composites have significantly reduced ignition times over micron-scale composites owing primarily to the unique thermal properties associated with nano-particles. Flame propagation and overall burn rate was also influenced by Al particle size and physical properties. Electron micrographs of the products reveal the formation of whiskers in nano-scale composites but not in micron-scale composites.
Clinical and pathologic tumor characteristics of prostate cancer as a function of the number of biopsy cores: a retrospective study ☆

Abstract Objectives. Many men with negative prostate biopsies and persistently elevated serum total prostate-specific antigen (tPSA) values will have cancer detected on a repeated biopsy. An important issue is whether the cancer would have been detected on the initial biopsy had more biopsy samples been obtained. The objective of our study was to retrospectively characterize the clinical and pathologic tumor features associated with men who underwent sextant core biopsies compared with men who needed more than six core biopsies during one or more biopsy sessions to detect prostate cancer. Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)-estimated prostatic volume was evaluated to determine whether the number of biopsy cores needed for prostate cancer detection was influenced by gland size. Methods. We retrospectively evaluated the number of biopsy core samples obtained in 185 men (mean age 63 ± 6 years) enrolled in our PSA-based screening study for prostate cancer who were found to have prostate cancer and elected radical prostatectomy as treatment. Correlation coefficients were calculated and univariate analyses were performed to evaluate clinical (age, tPSA, TRUS volume, PSA density) and pathologic (Gleason score, pathologic weight, organ confinement, “possibly harmless” cancer) characteristics associated with men who required more biopsy cores to detect the cancer. Results. Of the 185 men, 103 (56%) had 6 or fewer total biopsy cores taken and 82 (44%) had more than 6 cores (44 [24%] of 185 had 7 to 12 cores and 38 [20%] of 185 had 13 or more cores). There was a positive correlation between age, serum tPSA, TRUS-determined prostate volume, and pathologic specimen weight and an increasing number of total cores (all P values 0.05). Men with a TRUS volume 30 cc or less (46%) required a mean of 8 total cores to detect the cancer compared with a mean of 11 cores (P = 0.003) in men with a TRUS volume greater than 30 cc (54%). A greater percentage of men with a TRUS prostate volume greater than 30 cc compared with men whose volume was 30 cc or less would have had their cancer missed with only a six-core biopsy (64% versus 46%, P = 0.01). Conclusions. Sextant core biopsies may be inadequate to detect prostate cancer in some men. These data support the performance of more than six core biopsies to detect clinical prostate cancer. A prospective trial using TRUS-determined prostate volume to determine the number of cores to take is needed to accurately assess this issue.
Chloroacetylenes as Michael acceptors. II. Direct ethynylation and vinylation of tertiary enolates.

Abstract The reaction of ClCCCl, PhCCCl and PhSCCCl with a variety of tertiary enolates leads in 43–90% yields to α-chloroethynyl, α-phenylethynyl and α-thiophenylethynyl derivatives. The −CCCl group is smoothly converted to −CCH using copper powder in HOAc/THF, or is directly reduced (H 2 /Lindlar catalyst) to the −CHCH 2 group, thus providing facile access to many α-ethynyl and α-vinyl ketones and esters.
Left ventricular function and geometry in fetuses with severe tricuspid regurgitation.

Objective Neonatal congenital tricuspid valve (TV) dysplasia and/or displacement (Ebstein's malformation) with severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a challenging condition in which outcomes are frequently poor. Little is known about left ventricular (LV) function during the perinatal period in patients with congenital TV disease. The objective of this study was to evaluate LV function in fetuses with congenital TV anomalies associated with significant TR. Methods Serial fetal echocardiograms in 16 fetuses with congenital TV dysplasia and/or displacement (five neonatal survivors and 11 fetal or neonatal deaths) were reviewed. LV stroke volume, LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), LV end-diastolic dimension (LVIDd), the LV eccentricity index, thoracic and cardiac areas and the cardiothoracic area ratio (CTAR), the right atrium area index, and LV longitudinal strains were compared according to gestational age and clinical outcome. Results The gestational age-adjusted LVEDV (Z-score) was lower in late gestation (−1.2 ± 1.2 at last examination ≥ 28 weeks) than earlier in gestation (0.3 ± 1.5 at last examination < 28 weeks) and LV output was lower than reported late-gestation normal values. LV short-axis dimension correlated with LV volume and CTAR. LV mid-septal strain was lower than the normal average of fetal mid-septal strain and correlated with the LV eccentricity index. Among these parameters, only the LV eccentricity index differed between survivors and non-survivors. Conclusion LV function and anatomy are abnormal in fetuses with severe congenital TV anomalies and may be important contributors to outcome. Copyright © 2012 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evidence for chromosome 2p16.3 polycystic ovary syndrome susceptibility locus in affected women of European ancestry.

Context: A previous genome-wide association study in Chinese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) identified a region on chromosome 2p16.3 encoding the LH/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR) and FSH receptor (FSHR) genes as a reproducible PCOS susceptibility locus. Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the role of the LHCGR and/or FSHR gene in the etiology of PCOS in women of European ancestry. Design: This was a genetic association study in a European ancestry cohort of women with PCOS. Setting: The study was conducted at an academic medical center. Participants: Participants in the study included 905 women with PCOS diagnosed by National Institutes of Health criteria and 956 control women. Intervention: We genotyped 94 haplotype-tagging single-nucleotide polymorphisms and two coding single-nucleotide polymorphisms mapping to the coding region of LHCGR and FSHR plus 20 kb upstream and downstream of the genes and test for association in the case control cohort and for association w...
Effect of oxidation of graphene nanoribbons on electronic and magnetic properties

The electronic properties, band gap and ionization potential as well as the energies of the singlet and triplet states of zigzag and armchair graphene nanoribbons are calculated as a function of the number of oxygen atoms on the ribbon employing density functional theory at B3LYP/6-31G* level. The calculated band gaps indicate that both structures are semiconducting. The band gap of the armchair ribbons initially decreases followed by an increase with oxygen number. For zigzag ribbons the band gap decreases with increasing oxygen number whereas the ionization potential increases with oxygen content. In both armchair and zigzag ribbons the ionization potential shows a gradual increase with the number of oxygen atoms. Some of the oxygenated ribbons calculated have triplet ground states and have the density of states at the Fermi level for spin down greater than spin up suggesting the possibility they may be ferromagnetic semiconductors.
In VitroSensitivity of Fresh Ovarian Carcinoma Specimens to CPT-11 (Irinotecan)

Abstract Objective. Irinotecan (CPT-11) is a DNA topoisomerase I inhibitor which has shown activity in vitro against several cancer cell lines and some promising clinical responses in phase I and II trials in various solid tumors. The cytotoxicity of CPT-11 on human ovarian epithelial malignancies was tested in vitro utilizing the ATP chemosensitivity assay. Flow cytometry was also performed on the fresh carcinoma specimens. Methods. Fresh tumor samples were obtained at laparotomy from 20 patients with primary adenocarcinoma of the ovary and 1 patient with heavily pretreated recurrent ovarian carcinoma. Tumors were plated in an in vitro system and treated with varying doses of both CPT-11 and its active metabolite SN-38 (7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin), in addition to a panel of standard chemotherapeutic agents used in treating ovarian cancer. On the sixth day after incubation, ATP levels in remaining cells were measured using a luminometer as an indication of the amount of cell kill compared to untreated controls. Results. Twelve of the 21 tumors were evaluable for a response to CPT-11. Of the 12 tumors tested, 7 were found to have median effect doses of CPT-11 significantly under the clinically achievable peak plasma concentration (range 1.00 × 10 −4 to 44.67 μM) and 11 of the 12 tumors showed sensitivity to the active metabolite SN38 with median effect doses ranging from 2.00 × 10 −4 to 0.147 μM. Some of these tumors showed resistance to the standard agents, such as platinum, based on our assay. The heavily pretreated recurrent tumor tested was very sensitive to both CPT-11 and SN38 by our assay. The results of flow cytometry showed that the tumors were composed of heterogeneous populations of cells with mean S phase fractions varying from 7.0 to 17.3%. The only tumor not sensitive to SN38 showed the highest mean S phase activity of 17.3%. Conclusions. Overall, these results suggest that CPT-11 deserves further investigation as a clinically useful chemotherapeutic agent for ovarian cancer.
MBE growth of GaInAsSb/AlGaAsSb double heterostructures for infrared diode lasers

Abstract For the fabrication of diode lasers emitting near 2.3 μm, molecular beam epitaxy has been used to grow double heterostructures consisting of a Ga 0.84 In 0.16 As 0.14 Sb 0.86 active layer and Al 0.50 Ga 0.50 As 0.04 Sb 0.96 confining layers lattice matched to a GaSb substrate. Because the sticking coefficient is much greater for Sb than for As, high concentrations of Sb can be incorporated into the alloy layers even though the As flux during growth is much greater than both the Sb flux and the total group III flux. The n- and p-type dopant sources were GaTe and Be, respectively. The lasers have threshold current densities as low as 1.5 kA cm −2 , differential quantum efficiencies as high as 50%, and pulsed output power as high as 900 mW per facet.
The effects of random errors in rawinsonde data on derived kinematic quantities

The sensitivity of kinematic parameters to random errors contained in rawinsonde data is assessed. Parameters under consideration include relative vorticity, vorticity advection, horizontal divergence, kinematic vertical motion, and temperature advection. It is shown that horizontal divergence is the most affected, with reliability a function of height. Vorticity advection is the next most altered by random error, and in this case, the effects of wind errors are greater on the gradient of vorticity than on the vorticity itself. Vertical motions are most affected by random perturbations at 300 mb and above, and temperature advection is found to be the least sensitive to random perturbations.
Concentrating, purifying and detecting waterborne parasites

There has been recent emphasis on developing better methods for detecting diseases of zoonotic and veterinary importance. This has been prompted by an increase in human disease agents detectable in environmental samples, the potential for bioterrorism, and the lowering of international trade barriers and expansion of personal travel, which are bringing previously considered exotic diseases to new geographical localities. To appreciate the complexities of developing detection methods and working with environmental samples, it is appropriate to review technologies currently in use, as well as those in development and presently limited to research laboratories. Discussion of parasite detection would not be possible without including methods for parasite sampling, concentration, and purification because it is often necessary to process large sample volumes prior to analysis, and no reliable methods are available for significantly amplifying parasites in vitro. Reviewing proven methods currently in use will provide a baseline for generating, accepting and implementing the more sensitive and specific methods under development today.
Electronic Couplings and Energy Transfer Dynamics in the Oxidized Primary Electron Donor of the Bacterial Reaction Center

of the energy transfer rates to P + . We present a qualitative description of the electronic energy transfer (EET) dynamics that involves mixing of the strongly allowed transitions in P + with a manifold of exotic lowerenergy transitions to facilitate EET on the observed time scale of 150 fs. This description is obtained using a three-step procedure. First, multireference configuration-interaction (MRCI) calculations are performed using the semiempirical INDO/S Hamiltonian to depict the excited states of P + . However, these calculations are qualitatively indicative but of insufficient quantitative accuracy to allow for a fully a priori simulation of the EET and so, second, the INDO results are used to establish a variety of scenarios, empirical parameters that are then fitted to describe a range of observed absorption and circular dichroism data. Third, EET according
Modified Chevron Osteotomy for Hallux Valgus

The chevron osteotomy for hallux valgus was modified by addition of screw fixation and change of the osteotomy angle. Thirty-six patients underwent this modified osteotomy. All had mild to moderate symptomatic hallux valgus deformities. No other forefoot procedures were performed. Standing radiographs were taken before surgery, at 1 month after surgery, and, for the 15 patients who returned for long-term follow-up, at 1 year or more after surgery. Overall, 35/42 procedures were rated as satisfactory without reservations and 7 were rated as satisfactory with mild reservations. All patients stated that they had some improvement in their preoperative symptoms, which included pain, cosmetic concerns, and shoe wear difficulties. Radiographically, none of the capital fragments displaced and there were no malunions, nonunions, nor evidence of avascular necrosis. The average metatarsophalangeal-1 angle improved 8° and the average intermetatarsal 1–2 angle improved 4°. This modification is relatively simple, incre...
The synthesis of oxygen analogs of cepham. A new bicyclic system

The synthesis of a new bicyclic system has been reported. Three substituted 5,6-dihydro-1,3-oxazines have been condensed to a fused β-lactam ring system by use of phthaloylglycyl chloride. The resulting phthalimido compounds were dephthaloylated to the corresponding oxygen analogs of cepham (2).
Regulating immigrant media and instituting ethnic boundaries – The FCC and Spanish-language television: 1960–1990

This article examines a puzzle in the history of Spanish-language television in the United States. Namely, after decades of knowingly permitting the top television firm Univision Communications Corporation to form complex ties with Mexican investors, the Federal Communication Commission (FCC, the Commission) deemed it subject to foreign influence, and mandated its restructuring. Drawing on FCC records, interviews and unique data on television programs, this work argues that understandings of ethnic boundaries undergirded the Commission's reversal. It shows that regulators permitted extensive foreign ties under the pretext of advancing an “ethnic minority” media. The FCC backpedaled, however, when lobbyists highlighted a boundary between “Hispanic American” and foreign, Latin American media. The impact of the FCC's turnabout on programming is discussed. The author concludes by drawing postulates from the Univision case for an analysis of immigrant media regulation that reconciles understandings of ethnic boundaries with the prevailing free-market and trusteeship aspects of regulation.
Effects of vecuronium-induced histamine N-methyltransferase inhibition on cutaneous responses to histamine

All muscle relaxants inhibit histamineN-methyltransferasein vitro, but vecuronium, a steroid-derived muscle relaxant, is the most potent inhibitor. It has been suggested that administration of vecuronium prior to giving a drug that releases histamine may exaggerate the hemodynamic or vascular effects. Volunteers were injected intradermally with 5×10−4M concentrations of histamine, and the combination of vecuronium and histamine, to evaluate thein vivo significance. Vecuronium did not alter the measured wheal and flare responses to injected histamine at 5, 15, 30, 40, 50 and 60 mins. There is no evidence that inhibition of histamineN-methyltransferasein vivo will alter the vascular effects of histamine.
Outcomes of expectantly managed pregnancies with multiple gestations and preterm premature rupture of membranes prior to 26 weeks.

Objective The objective of the study was to determine the obstetric and neonatal outcomes of expectantly managed multifetal pregnancies complicated by early preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) prior to 26 weeks. Study design This was a retrospective cohort of all multifetal pregnancies complicated by documented PPROM occurring before 26 0/7 weeks and managed expectantly by a single maternal-fetal medicine practice between July 4, 2002, and Sept. 1, 2013. Neonatal and maternal outcomes were assessed and comparisons made between the fetus with ruptured membranes and the first fetus to deliver with intact membranes. Results Twenty-three pregnancies (46 fetuses) were analyzed with a median gestational age at PPROM of 22.9 weeks; 74% experienced PPROM at less than 24 weeks' gestation. A median latency of 11 days was achieved with expectant management. Of the 46 neonates, 20 (43%) survived to hospital discharge. Of these, 12 (60%) experienced severe neonatal morbidity defined as defined as grade III or IV intraventricular hemorrhage, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, pulmonary hypoplasia, necrotizing enterocolitis requiring surgical intervention, and/or grade 3 or 4 retinopathy of prematurity. Eight neonates survived to hospital discharge without severe neonatal morbidity. The multiple with ruptured membranes was more likely to experience intrauterine demise but otherwise had similar outcomes as the multiple with intact membranes. Maternal morbidity was considerable, with 7 of 23 pregnancies (30%) complicated by clinical chorioamnionitis, 12 of 23 (52%) delivering by cesarean, of which 3 of 12 (25%) were classical cesarean deliveries. Conclusion Overall, neonatal survival to hospital discharge was 43%, but only 17% survived without significant neonatal morbidity. These data provide a basis for counseling and management of women with multifetal gestation complicated by very early PPROM.
MLK3 Limits Activated Gαq Signaling to Rho by Binding to p63RhoGEF

Mixed lineage kinase 3 (MLK3) is a MAP3K that activates the JNK-dependent MAPK pathways. Here, we show that MLK3 is required for cell migration in a manner independent of its role as a MAP3K or MLK3 kinase activity. Rather, MLK3 functions in a regulated way to limit levels of the activated GTPase Rho by binding to the Rho activator, p63RhoGEF/GEFT, which, in turn, prevents its activation by Galphaq. These findings demonstrate a scaffolding role for MLK3 in controlling the extent of Rho activation that modulates cell migration. Moreover, they suggest that MLK3 functions as a network hub that links a number of signaling pathways.
Experimental models of fracture repair

Many mammalian and avian species have been used as models to study fracture healing. The individual animals, based on their size and other characteristics, are used to show the effects of different interventions on healing bone. The models may have fractures created by closed or open means or osteotomies. Fracture healing can be evaluated through histologic, mechanical, chemical, or biological studies. Internal fixation, external skeletal fixation, or no fixation may be used in the experiments. Results of fracture healing studies among animal species may conflict even when the same model is used in each species. These differences may be explained by anatomic, biochemical, and gene expression differences. Evaluation of the animal model is an important consideration when applying the results of any particular study to humans. Consensus regarding fracture healing develops from agreement between results of animal models and human clinical studies.
Energy transfer within responsive pi-conjugated coassembled peptide-based nanostructures in aqueous environments

Steady-state and time-resolved photophysical measurements demonstrate energy transfer within π-conjugated peptide nanostructures composed of oligo-(p-phenylenevinylene)-based donor units and quaterthiophene-based acceptor units in completely aqueous environments. These peptide-based assemblies encourage energy migration along the stacking axis, thus resulting in the quenching of donor emission peaks along with the development of new spectral features reminiscent of acceptor emission. These spectral changes were observed even at minute amounts of the acceptor (starting at 1 mol%), suggesting that exciton migration is involved in energy transport and supporting a funnel-like energy transduction mechanism. The reversibility of nanostructure formation and the associated photophysical responses under different conditions (pH, temperature) were also studied. This unique material design incorporates two different semiconducting units coassembled within peptide nanostructures and offers a new platform for the engineering of energy migration through bioelectronic materials in aqueous environments.