cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prognostic factors and risk group analysis in follicular carcinoma of the thyroid

Background. The understanding of prognostic factors has facilitated stratification of risk groups in differentiated carcinoma of the thyroid. The prognostic factors have clearly identified the risk groups as low, intermediate, and high risk. Risk group categorization has facilitated a selective surgical approach for thyroid carcinoma. Methods. A retrospective review of 228 patients with follicular carcinoma of the thyroid was undertaken. Various prognostic factors and risk groups were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed, and the survival curves were plotted by the Kaplan-Meier method. Fifty-nine (26%) patients presented with Hurthle cell histology. The risk groups revealed 62 patients in the low, 84 in the intermediate, and 82 in the high risk groups. Results. The 10-year survival for low, intermediate, and high risk groups was 98%, 88%, and 56%, respectively, and the 20-year survival for the same groups was 97%, 87%, and 49%, respectively. Adverse prognostic factors included age older than 45 years (p Conclusions. Patients in the low risk group have excellent survival, whereas the high risk group behaves poorly. Appropriate selection of treatment for the primary disease and adjuvant therapy should be considered on the basis of the prognostic factors and risk group analysis.
The reduction of HgCl2 in gamma-irradiated aqueous-organic systems

Abstract In the presence of a variety organic solutes, mercuric chloride is reduced to mercurous chloride and HCl in aqueous solutions. G(HCl) values in dilute solutions (0.001 M HgCl 2 and 0.01 M organic) for a series of alcohols, acetaldehyde, acetone and acetonitrile lie within the approximate range of 3–6 molecules per 100 eV. The value depends upon the reactivity toward HgCl 2 of the radical product formed by reaction of OH with organic component. The results show a decreasing reactivity as the radical site is farther displaced from the α-carbon atom. At high concentrations (0.1 M HgCl 2 and 1 M organic) chain reactions occur in most of the systems with G(HCl) values increasing with decreasing dose rate. Evidence is presented for an involvement of colloidal Hg 2 Cl 2 in the reaction chains.
MINDO/3 calculations of the conformation and carcinogenicity of epoxy-metabolites of aromatic hydrocarbons: 7,8-dihydroxy-9,10-oxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrobenzo(a)pyrene.

Quantum mechanical calculations in the MINDO/3 approximation were performed on the four conformations of the alicyclic moiety of 7,8-dihydroxy-9,10-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrobenzo(a)pyrene. Total charge and frontier orbital densities show that attack by nucleophiles will occur predominantly at Position 10 of all configurations of the dihydroxyepoxybenzo(a)pyrene. The calculations show the cis diastereomer to be more stable than the trans, although no evidence for hydrogen bonding in the (ax, ax′) conformer was found. On the basis of the results obtained for the stability of the various conformers, a model is proposed to explain the higher carcinogenicity of the trans isomer as compared to the cis. Such a model implies the formation of an intercalation complex between the diol epoxide metabolite and nucleic acids.
Risk factors and hormone-receptor status: epidemiology, risk-prediction models and treatment implications for breast cancer

Breast cancer is a heterogeneous group of diseases and hormone receptor status defines important clinical and etiologic differences between breast cancer subtypes. This article reviews the epidemiologic data on differences in risk factor associations by hormone receptor status, and highlights the limitations of commonly used prediction models. The authors describe how receptor status information can be applied to risk analysis for screening and preventive therapies. It is increasingly being recognized that breast cancer does not represent a single homogeneous disease; instead, the hormone-receptor status defines important clinical and etiologic differences. We review the epidemiologic data on differences in risk-factor associations by hormone-receptor status and highlight major trends in the literature. We discuss the development and evaluation of breast cancer risk models, with a focus on the Rosner and Colditz model, which can separately estimate the risk of hormone-receptor-positive and hormone-receptor-negative breast cancers. We also discuss the clinical implications of accounting for hormone-receptor status in breast cancer risk-prediction models.
Relationship between wood-inhabiting fungi and Reticulitermes spp. in four forest habitats of northeastern Mississippi

Abstract Fungi from coarse woody debris samples containing or lacking termites were isolated, and identified from upland and bottomland hardwoods and pines in northeast Mississippi. Samples yielded 860 unique fungal isolates, with 59% identified to genus level. Four phyla, six classes, 10 orders, 14 families, and 50 genera were recovered. The fungal groups encountered by decreasing taxonomic diversity were Imperfect Fungi, Ascomycota, Zygomycota, Basidiomycota, and unknown fungi. The most frequently encountered fungi were Penicillium (81 occurrences), Nodulisporium (57), Cladosporium (37), Trichoderma (34), Xylaria (29), Talaromyces and Pestalotia (27 each), and Stachylidium (26). The true wood decay fungi only accounted for 0.9% of the fungi isolated. The only statistical interactions associated with termites were the genus Nodulisporium, the class Coelomycetes, and the order Xylariales which all correlated with the absence of termites. Of particular interest is the strong correlation of the Xylariales and absence of termites. These white rot ascomycetes may have inhibitory effects on termites. In addition, the correlation of the genus Nodulisporium may be related as many species of this genus are considered asexual stages of Xylaria and Hypoxylon. There were also a number of significant interactions between wood species, habitat and presence of certain fungi. Most prior research has found an attraction of termites to wood infested with different types of wood-associated fungi. This study, however, found no positive statistical correlations between the presence of termites and any given group of fungi. An increased understanding of these interactions may help locate and isolate biologically active compounds that may influence termite behavior.
Metabolism as a complex genetic trait, a systems biology approach: Implications for inborn errors of metabolism and clinical diseases

Multifactorial and polygenic inheritance is commonly recognized for many genetic conditions including physical anomalies, complex congenital malformation syndromes, and even common disorders such as adult-onset diabetes mellitus. It has only recently been suggested as a mechanism for inheritance in inborn errors of metabolism. This article reviews the phenomenon of multiple partial enzyme deficiencies leading to clinical relevant biochemical derangements (synergistic heterozygosity) and its implications for other more common disorders such as diabetes and obesity.
Crystallization in SiO2–metal Oxide Alloys

HfO2–SiO2 and La2O3–SiO2 amorphous alloys were prepared, and their crystallization behavior was studied. The results suggest that higher permittivities can be achieved in the La-containing system without devitrification. The crystallization mechanisms between systems are distinctly different, yet observations are consistent with bulk material. Hf-containing materials tend toward phase separation, while La-containing materials tend toward silicate formation. For Hf-containing films, negligible thickness or time dependence was observed. In La-containing films, rapid thermal anneals could improve crystallization resistance, and thickness effects related to interface reactions were observed. These behaviors are discussed in the context of phase diagrams and metastable immiscibility.
Effect of tension-free vaginal tape and TVT-obturator on lower urinary tract symptoms other than stress urinary incontinence

Variable effects on lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) other than stress urinary incontinence (SUI) have been reported after tension-free vaginal tape (TVT). We measured the effect of TVT on LUTS using the American Urological Association Symptom Index (AUASI). Patients undergoing TVT completed the AUASI pre- and post-operatively. Total scores (TS), storage scores (SS), and voiding scores (VS) were compared overall and among patients with SUI vs mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) and those who underwent TVT vs TVT-obturator (TVT-O). The mean change in TS and SS was −3.6 and −3.0. Mean reductions in TS and SS were significant in all patient subsets with no change in VS. There was no significant difference in the mean changes in TS between patients with SUI vs MUI or those undergoing TVT vs TVT-O. LUTS are improved after TVT in most patients. In general, voiding symptoms were not adversely affected.
Glutathione excretion in response to heterologous protein secretion in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Glutathione is excreted in a dose-dependent, non-stoichiometric fashion from Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells expressing and secreting Bovine Pancreatic Trypsin Inhibitor (BPTI), a small, disulfide-bonded protein. Glutathione excretion commences 40 hours following induction of BPTI synthesis. Expression of several secretory proteins with varying disulfide and cysteine contents results in glutathione excretion with no apparent requirement for protein disulfide content. Glutathione excretion is also triggered by overexpression of Kar2p/BiP, a native ER-resident protein-folding chaperone, indicating that the response is a general one not restricted to overexpression of thiol-containing heterologous proteins. Functional vesicular transport is not required at the time of glutathione excretion, and glutathione excretion requires the presence of molecular oxygen. These data are consistent with a delayed oxidative stress response potentiated by earlier heterologous secretion, but are inconsistent with secretory transport of glutathione spent as oxidizing equivalents for disulfide-bond formation in the endoplasmic reticulum.
Novel chromosomal insertional translocation in chicken uncovered by double color FISH.

Abstract A novel insertion 78,ZZ or 78,ZW, ins(3;1)(q25q27;undetermined) was revealed in chicken by double color fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). A fragment of chromosome 1 spanning either from ql3‐14 to q34‐35, or from q14‐21 to q36‐41 bands, had been translocated to chromosome 3 at a site located between q25 to q27 bands. This has resulted in the generation of an interstitial deletion in chromosome 1 and an insertional translocation in chromosome 3. Chickens with this balanced insertional translocation are asymptomatic carriers and their fertility is not affected, but embryo mortality increases. Greater than 50% occurrence of unbalanced gametes are observed. However, progeny sex ratio is not affected.
EMERGENT SOCIALITY: A DIALECTIC OF COMMITMENT AND ORDER

A conversation has a life of its own and makes demands on its own behalf. It is a little social system with its own boundary maintaining tendencies; it is a little patch of commitment and loyalty with its own heroes and its own villains. (Goffman 1967:113)
MODE CONVERSION IN HELIX LOADED WAVEGUIDE

Forward coupling of a fast TE-like mode is an interesting and desirable option in the gyro-TWT amplifier. We consider in this paper a mode conversion at the abrupt junction of two infinitely long sheath-helix-loaded waveguides. A helix mode traveling from the left to the right side excites fast TE-like modes are numerically calculated by taking dominant terms in the into TE-like modes are numerically calculated by taking dominant terms in the eigenmode-expansion method. The bandwidth (3 dB) for TE-mode-like coupling in the second (right-hand-side) waveguide is found to be over 40$.
Seeded growth of AlN on N- and Al-polar AlN seeds by physical vapor transport

We demonstrated seeded growth of AlN on large-area Al- and N-polar -oriented AlN seeds using the physical vapor transport method (PVT). In both cases, crystals having a diameter of 15 mm were obtained from 5 mm seeds. Based on growth step and terrace width analyses, it was found that the N-polar face was suitable for growth within a large window of growth parameters while the Al-polar seeds yielded high-quality crystals only at low supersaturation.
Externally generated piezoelectric effect in semiconductor micro- structures

We report a study of the effects of large, external uniaxial stress ({ital T}) along (001) and (110) on the optical properties of a strained layer (001) In{sub 0.21}Ga{sub 0.79}As/GaAs single quantum well. For {bold T}{parallel}(110) we have observed a red shift of several peaks and an increase in the intensities of several symmetry-forbidden'' transitions; effects not seen for {bold T}{parallel}(100). This phenomenon is due to an electric field along (001) induced by the piezoelectric coupling for {bold T}{parallel}(110).
Evaluation of Fire-Safety Programs that use 10-Year Smoke Alarms

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention began funding a Smoke Alarm Installation and Fire Safety Education (SAIFE) program in 1998. This program involves the installation of lithium-powered "10-year" smoke alarms in homes at high risk for fires and injuries. This study aimed to (1) determine among original SAIFE homes if the lithium-powered alarms were still present and functional 8-10 years after installation and (2) understand factors related to smoke alarm presence and functionality. Data on a total of 384 homes and 601 smoke alarms in five states were collected and analyzed. Only one-third of alarms were still functional; 37% of installed alarms were missing; and 30% of alarms were present, but not functioning. Alarms were less likely to be functioning if they were installed in the kitchen and if homes had a different resident at follow-up. Of the 351 alarms that were present and had a battery at the time of the evaluation, only 21% contained lithium-powered batteries. Of these, 78% were still functioning. Programs that install lithium-powered alarms should use units that have sealed-in batteries and "hush" buttons. Additionally, education should be given on smoke alarm maintenance that includes a message that batteries in these alarms should not be replaced. Lithium-powered smoke alarms should last up to 10 years if maintained properly.
Z-scan measurements of the anisotropy of nonlinear refraction and absorption in crystals

We introduce a method for measuring the anisotropy of nonlinear absorption and nonlinear refraction in crystals by incorporating a wave plate into the Z-scan apparatus. We demonstrate this method by measuring the polarization dependence of the nonlinear refractive index or two-photon absorption coefficient in BaF2, KTP, and GaAs at wavelengths of 532 and 1064 nm.
Role of Pin2/TRF1 in telomere maintenance and cell cycle control.

Telomeres are specialized structures found at the extreme ends of chromosomes, which have many functions, including preserving genomic stability, maintaining cell proliferative capacity, and blocking the activation of DNA-damage cell cycle checkpoints. Deregulation of telomere length has been implicated in cancer and ageing. Telomere maintenance is tightly regulated by telomerase and many other telomere-associated proteins and is also closely linked to cell cycle control, especially mitotic regulation. However, little is known about the identity and function of the signaling molecules connecting telomere maintenance and cell cycle control. Pin2/TRF1 was originally identified as a protein bound to telomeric DNA (TRF1) and as a protein involved in mitotic regulation (Pin2). Pin2/TRF1 negatively regulates telomere length and importantly, its function is tightly regulated during the cell cycle, acting as an important regulator of mitosis. Recent identification of many Pin2/TRF1 upstream regulators and downstream targets has provided important clues to understanding the dual roles of Pin2/TRF1 in telomere maintenance and cell cycle control. These results have led us to propose that Pin2/TRF1 functions as a key molecule in connecting telomere maintenance and cell cycle control.
Luminescence of Ln(III) Dithiocarbamate Complexes (Ln = La, Pr, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy)

We have discovered room temperature photoluminescence in Sm3+ and Pr3+ dithiocarbamate complexes. Surprisingly, these complexes exhibit more intense emission than those of the Eu3+, Tb3+, and Dy3+ analogues. The electronic absorption, excitation, and emission spectra are reported for the complexes [Ln(S2CNR2)3L] and NH2Et2[Ln(S2CNEt2)4], where Ln = Sm, Pr; R = ethyl, ibutyl, benzyl; and L = 1,10-phenanthroline, 2,2'-bipyridine, and 5-chloro-1,10-phenanthroline. The lowest ligand-localized triplet energy level (T1) of the complexes are determined from the phosphorescence spectra of analogous La3+ and Gd3+ chelates. The luminescence decay curves were measured to determine the excited-state lifetimes for the Pr3+ and Sm3+ complexes. X-ray crystal structures of Sm(S2CNiBu2)3phen, Pr(S2CNEt2)3phen, and Pr(S2CNiBu2)3phen are also reported.
Enhancement of starch conversion efficiency with free and immobilized pullulanase and alpha-1,4-glucosidase.

Glucoamylase and pullulanase were immobilized on reconstituted bovine-hide collagen membranes using the covalent azide linkage method. A pretanning step was incorporated into the immobilization procedure to enable the support matrix to resist proteolytic activity while accommodating an operating temperature of 50 degrees Celcius. The immobilized glucoamylase and pullulanase activities were 0.91 and 0.022 mg dextrose equivalent (DE) min-1 cm-2 of membrane, respectively. Immobilized glucoamylase had a half-life of 50 days while the immobilized pullulanase had a half-life of 7 days. This is a considerably improved stability over that reported by other researchers. The enzymes were studied in their free and immobilized forms on a variety of starch substrates including waxy maize, a material which contains 80% alpha-1-6-glucosidic linkages. Substrate concentrations ranged from 1% to a typical commercial concentration of 30%. Conversion efficiencies of 90-92% DE were obtained with free and immobilized glucoamylase preparations. Conversion enhancements of 4-5 mg of DE above this level were obtained by the use of pullulanase in its free or immobilized forms. Close examination of free pullulanase stability as a function of pH indicated improved thermal stability at higher pH values. At 50 degrees Celcius and pH 5.0, the free enzyme was inactivated after 24 hours.more » At pH 7.0, the enzyme still possessed one-half its activity after 72 hours. Studies were conducted in both batch and continuous total recycle reactors. All experiments were conducted at 50 degrees Celcius. Experiments conducted with coimmobilized enzymes proved quite promising. Levels of conversion equivalent to those obtained with the individually immobilized enzymes were realized. (Refs. 16).« less
Clinical trials: The silent minority--unpublished data on cancer care.

From 1989 to 2003, 709 phase III trials evaluating systemic cancer treatment were presented at ASCO meetings. Tam and collaborators have now reported that 9% of these trials were never published, and 13% were published after a 5-year delay. More than half of these studies would have had clinical impact if published promptly.
Feeding behaviour determining differential capture success of evasive prey in underyearling European perch (Perca fluviatilis L.) and roach (Rutilus rutilus (L.))

The effect of feeding behaviour on the prey capture efficiency of young-of-the-year European perch and roach was investigated in laboratory experiments using planktonic crustaceans possessing different escape abilities—Daphnia sp. and Cyclops sp. Two sets of experiments were performed. In the first set, the feeding efficiency and behaviour of 270 fish individuals were determined by stomach content analyses and video record evaluations. In the second set of experiments, analysis of attack-effort, which was evaluated as attack-distance and repeated strikes, was undertaken. Except for situations in which Daphnia was offered at high densities, the feeding efficiency of perch was significantly higher compared to roach in all other combinations of prey types and densities. Roach consumed significantly less prey compared to perch when feeding exclusively on the evasive Cyclops and when it was offered in a 1:1 ratio mixture with Daphnia. The mean swimming speed was similar in both fish species, but behavioural differences were evident during prey search and capture. Perch swam through the aquaria in short and fast movements that were interrupted by many stops. Roach exhibited rather continuous swimming that was punctuated by slowdowns instead of stops. The perch attacks were very intensive and repeated strikes occurred, particularly when feeding on evasive Cyclops. On the other hand, roach revealed strong schooling behaviour restricting the fish during inspection of the experimental aquaria. The distinct differences in feeding efficiency between perch and roach were demonstrated to be closely related to differences in their feeding behaviour. Discontinuous searching for prey, vigorous attacks, occurrence of repeated strikes and the absence of schooling increased perch prey capture efficiency, particularly when foraging on evasive copepods.
The Frequency and Seriousness of Communication Barriers in the Auditor-Client Relationship.

The accounting profession has called for increased attention to communica tion skill development in accounting curricula. Since independent accountants rely extensively on client communications when gathering evidence during external audits, identifying and minimizing communication barriers with clients can improve audit efficiency and effectiveness. This study evaluated client perceptions of the seriousness and frequency of potential communica tion barriers in external audits. Factor analysis revealed both a credibility/background factor and hostility/conflict factor to be the most seri ous barriers. Subjects perceived personality differences, "know-it-all" attitude, "either-or" thinking, resistance to change, and jumping to conclusions as occurring most frequently.
Errors in medicine

Modern awareness of the problem of medical injury--complications of treatment--can be fairly dated to the publication in 1991 of the results of the Harvard Medical Practice Study, but it was not until the publication of the 2000 Institute of Medicine (IOM) report, To Err is Human that patient safety really came to medical and public attention. Medical injury is a serious problem, affecting, as multiple studies have now shown, approximately 10% of hospitalized patients, and causing hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths each year. The organizing principle is that the cause is not bad people, it is bad systems. This concept is transforming; it replaces the previous exclusive focus on individual error with a focus on defective systems. Although the major focus on patient safety has been on implementing safe practices, it has become increasingly apparent that achieving a high level of safety in our health care organizations requires much more: several streams have emerged. One of these is the recognition of the importance of engaging patients more fully in their care. Another is the need for transparency. In the current health care organizational environment in most hospitals, at least six major changes are required to begin the journey to a culture of safety: 1. We need to move from looking at errors as individual failures to realizing they are caused by system failures; 2. We must move from a punitive environment to a just culture; 3. We move from secrecy to transparency; 4. Care changes from being provider (doctors) centered to being patient-centered; 5. We move our models of care from reliance on independent, individual performance excellence to interdependent, collaborative, interprofessional teamwork; 6. Accountability is universal and reciprocal, not top-down.
Water mobility within bovine cervical mucus.

The self diffusion coefficient of water within sperm-free bovine cervical mucus was measured by pulsed-gradient nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. As compared with free water, no appreciable reduction in diffusiveness was encountered at any phase of the estrous cycle. This result was interpreted in the light of simple hydrodynamic arguments, which suggest that the small solids content of the mucus is incapable of significant water restriction. The stirring effect of motile spermatozoa was also consided. This effect extends approximately I body length around a spermatozoon. In simple fluid media, hydrodynamic interaction between spermatozoa therefore ceases on the average at sperm concentrations below approximately 106 /ml, a result that may be associated with the dilution effect. In cervical mucus, however, there is significant hydrodynamic interaction between a single spermatozoon and the surrounding mucous microfilaments, which would help to explain the absence of a dilution effect in this medium.
Trophotaeniae, embryonic adaptations, in the viviparous ophidioid fish, Oligopus Longhursti: A study of museum specimens.

Prepartum embryos obtained from old museum specimens of the ovo-viviparous fish, Oligopus longhursti, possess external intestinal appendages. They are structurally identical to the trophotaeniae described by Turner ('37) and Mendoza ('37) in goodeid fishes. This is the first report of trophotaeniae in the viviparous ophidioids. Two developmental Stages, A and B, were observed. A is a tailbud stage, 2.0-2.25 mm in length, and B is a finfold embryo, 3.0-3.25 mm in length (Wourms and Bayne, '73). Trophotaeniae occur in the form of a single median anterior process and a pair of median posterior processes. They originate from a conspicuous peduncle formed around the anus. The processes of stage A are 1.5-2.0 mm long, 0.05 mm in diameter at their base and 0.04 mm at their tip. The stage B processes are 2.75-3.00 mm long, 0.075 mm in diameter at their base and 0.050 mm at their tip. Serial sections show that the surface epithelium of the trophotaeniae is continuous with and identical to the surface epithelium of the trophotaeniae is continuous with and identical to the surface epithelium of the embryonic gut. Examination both by transmission and scanning electron microscopy confirms that the apical surface of the trophotaenial epithelium and intestinal epithelium are covered with microvilli. Trophotaeniae are considered to function in the uptake of nutrients since they are structurally identical to intestinal epithelial cells. We suggest that maternal nutrients absorbed by trophotaeniae rather than yolk reserves are the principal source of embryonic metabolites. Trophotaeniae may afford a selective advantage since their existence in O. longhursti maximizes the number of large size embryos which a female can produce at one time. Occurrence of trophotaeniae in ophidioid, goodeid and zoarcid embryos is a remarkable example of convergent evolution.
Isolation of midgut escape mutants of two American genotype dengue 2 viruses from Aedes aegypti

Background: Several studies have shown that American genotype dengue 2 viruses (DENV2) have reduced viral fitness in the mosquito vector, Aedes aegypti, compared to other DENV2 genotypes. Diminished replication efficiency or inability to efficiently traverse membrane barriers encompassing organs such as the midgut or salivary glands are considered major factors negatively impacting viral fitness in the mosquito. Results: We analyzed the vector competence of Ae. aegypti for two American DENV2 strains, QR94 and PR159 originating from Mexico and Puerto-Rico, respectively. Both strains infected mosquito midguts following acquisition of infectious bloodmeals. However, DENV2-QR94 and DENV2-PR159 poorly disseminated from the midgut at 7 or 14 days post-bloodmeal (pbm). We detected one virus isolate, EM33, among 31 DENV2-QR94 infected mosquitoes, and one isolate, EM41, among 121 DENV2-PR159 infected mosquitoes, generating high virus titers in mosquito carcasses at 7 days pbm. In oral challenge experiments, EM33 and EM41 showed midgut dissemination rates of 40-50%. Replication efficiency of EM41 in secondary mosquito tissue was similar to that of a dissemination-competent control strain, whereas the replication efficiency of EM33 was significantly lower than that of the control virus. The genome sequence of DENV2-QR94 encoded seven unique amino acids (aa), which were not found in 100 of the most closely related DENV2 strains. EM33 had one additional aa change, E202K, in the E protein. DENV2-PR159 encoded four unique aa residues, one of them E202K, whereas EM41 had two additional aa substitutions, Q77E in the E protein and E93D in NS3. Conclusions: Our results indicate that the midgut of Ae. aegypti acts as a selective sieve for DENV2 in which genetically distinct, dissemination-competent virus variants are rapidly selected from the viral quasispecies to be transmitted to vertebrates.
Oscillatory cross‐flow electrophoresis

Electrophoresis is a useful analytic technique for the separation of proteins and other large molecules, but has proven resistant to scale-up to production levels. In this article we describe a new technique that permits the use of much greater feed rates than possible in a conventional electrophoresis unit. The technique, in its simplest form similar to the cyclical field-flow fractionation technique developed by Giddings (1986) and extended by Shmidt and Cheh (1990), relies on the application of an oscillatory electric field across the narrow gap of the electrophoretic cell. The motion of the solute species induced by this field interacts with an oscillatory cross-flow to cause a separation based on the electrophoretic mobility of the species. This horizontal separation is combined further with a gradient in the strength of the oscillating electric field and oscillations in the vertical downflow to lead to different steady streamlines for species with different mobilities.
Some Unique Properties of a Bilayer and Liposome Forming System

The unique procedure developed for forming artificial red cells (Science 230, 1165, 1985) allows encapsulation of proteins to concentrations in excess of 20g%. The procedure requires a hypotonic starting solution, whereas the final suspension is equilibrated at 300 mOsm. Hemoglobin (Hb) was one of several proteins encapsulated. The procedure is based on emulsion formation and subsequent evaporation of the nonaqueous phase, a common liposome-formation procedure, but has unique features. The densities of the phases are matched by adding a Freon. The emulsion is formed using conditions that eliminate protein denaturation. This research was designed to evaluate the fine structure at each critical stage using thin section electron microscopy. The results revealed remarkable, previously unseen detail that raises questions about the variety of properties that can be engineered into lipid bilayer structures. The initial emulsion was nonclassical. Submicron particles in large relative numbers suggested a minimal surface tension difference between the two phases. After nearly complete evaporation of the nonaqueous phase, “microcapsule” particles were present but their architecture showed little in common with classical liposomes; there was no evidence of bilayer membranes. Following extrusion, a slow increase in the osmolality to 300 mOsm dramatically altered the architecture of the microcapsules: The encapsulated protein concentration increased, and lipid bilayer membranes were formed. The resulting “liposomes” were often chambered rather than having concentric bilayer structures. Two closely opposed bilayers surrounding a volume of protein solution was a common structure.
Miscibility of a polyarylate with a liquid crystalline copolyester

The miscibility has been investigated for binary blends of a polyarylate (PAr) with a liquid crystalline copolyester of p-hydroxybenzoate and ethylene terephthalate units in a 6/4 molar ratio (PET/PHB). The binary blends were prepared by solution precipitation. The transitions of the PET/PHB have been measured with a rheometrics dynamic spectrometer. The phases in blends have been studied with a differential scanning calorimeter, by ther-mogravimetry and with a polarizing optical microscope. The blends exhibit two glass transitions (Tgs) over the composition range 10–90 wt %. The amorphous PET phase from the PET-PHB is found to be partially miscible with PAr, which leads to a decrease of the PAr Tg. The amount of this partially miscible portion of PET has been estimated by the Couch-man equation. On heat treatment of the blends at 250 to 300°C, transesterficiation takes place, as judged by the shift of the higher of the two Tgs. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Characterization and cardiovascular actions of endothelin-1 and endothelin-3 from the American alligator

The structures and biological activities of the isoforms of endothelin (ET) in a reptile are unknown. ET-3, whose primary structure is identical to human ET-3 except for the substitution Phe4 → Tyr...
Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy incorporating intraoperative ultrasonography for renal cell carcinoma with renal vein tumor thrombus

The purpose of this study was to describe the technique of laparoscopic right radical nephrectomy incorporating intraoperative, real-time ultrasonography in the management of renal cell carcinoma with level 1 renal vein tumor thrombus. With the patient in a modified flank position, a transperitoneal four-port approach was used to laparoscopically resect an 8.5-cm right renal mass with tumor thrombus extending to, but not into, the inferior vena cava. Early arterial control with gentle traction on the right renal vein provided a short proximal renal venous segment devoid of tumor on laparoscopic inspection. Intraoperative laparoscopic ultrasonography allowed confident identification of the proximal extent of the tumor thrombus. After hilar control, complete resection and intact removal of the renal specimen was performed using standard non-hand-assisted laparoscopic techniques. The actual surgical time was 180 minutes. Surgical resection was successfully performed laparoscopically. No postoperative complications or hospital readmission occurred. Pathologic examination confirmed T3b renal cell carcinoma with negative surgical margins. Laparoscopic right radical nephrectomy incorporating intraoperative, real-time ultrasonography is feasible in the management of renal cell carcinoma with a large-sized level 1 renal vein thrombus. Additional studies are necessary to evaluate its role in urologic oncologic surgery.
Effects of acute stress on acquisition of nicotine conditioned place preference in adolescent rats: a role for corticotropin-releasing factor 1 receptors

Rationale Studies indicate that adolescence is a time of increased sensitivity to the rewarding effects of nicotine, and that stress is associated with an increased risk for smoking initiation in this age group. It is possible that stress leads to increased nicotine use in adolescence by augmenting its rewarding properties. Corticotropin-releasing factor type 1 receptors (CRF-R1) mediate physiological and behavioral stress responses. They may also mediate stress-induced potentiation of activity in multiple neural substrates implicated in nicotine reward.
Computer-aided performance assessment of fully depleted SOI CMOS VLSI circuits

A physical model for the fully depleted submicrometer SOI MOSFET is described and used to assess the performance of SOI CMOS VLSI digital circuits. The computer-aided analysis is focused on both problematic and beneficial effects of the parasitic bipolar junction transistor (BJT) in the floating-body device. The study shows that the bipolar problems overwhelm the benefits, and hence must be alleviated by controlling the activation of the BJT via device design tradeoffs. A feasible approach to the needed design optimization is demonstrated by veritable device/circuit simulations, which also predict significant speed superiority of SOI over bulk-silicon CMOS circuits in scaled, submicrometer technologies. >
Hand-assisted laparoscopic donor nephrectomy: a low rate of complications.

Background—Laparoscopic donor nephrectomy is associated with a higher incidence of ureteral complications. Hand-assisted dissection minimizes the use of instruments for intraoperative retraction and handling of periureteric tissue, and may reduce posttransplant complications.Objective—To assess the outcome of hand-assisted laparoscopic donor nephrectomy, in particular ureteral complications.Methods—Records of 143 kidney transplant recipients who received allografts removed using the hand-assisted laparoscopic technique were retrospectively studied.Results—Total operating time was 2.0±0.55 (range 1.08-4) hours. Warm ischemia time was 1.45±0.60 (range 0.58-3.00) minutes. Length of artery, vein, and ureter was 2.4±0.5 cm, 3.0±0.5 cm, and 10.3±2.1 cm, respectively. Estimated blood loss averaged 86.3±55.6 mL. Intraoperative suction was not needed in 65% of patients. Two donors developed incisional hernias and 1 had a postoperative ileus. Four of 143 (2.8%) recipients developed ureteral complications: reoperati...
Dislocation-Related Photoluminescence in Strain-Relaxed Si1-xGex. Buffer Layer Structures

Low-temperature photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy was used to study electronic states associated with threading dislocations (D lines) in strain-relaxed Si1-xGex layers. The structures investigated were grown by ultra-high vacuum chemical vapor deposition (UHV/CVD) at 550 °C and consist of an Si(001) substrate followed by a step-wise graded buffer layer followed by a thick uniform composition Si1-xGex layer. Variations in the PL intensity and peak position of the four D lines after isochronal annealing at temperatures between 600 and 800 °C have been measured. We show that the large energy shift of the D1 line is due to a change in the local band-gap energy at the dislocation core due to strain-driven diffusion of Ge away from the dislocation core with an activation energy of 2.4 eV.
Combination of radiation therapy and intracranial bleomycin in the 9L rat brain tumor model.

Abstract The rat 9L brain tumor model was used to investigate the therapeutic potential of a combined modality approach using intracranial Bleomycin and radiation therapy. Bolus Bleomycin was delivered intracranially into the tumor volume via cannula guides; for continuous infusions, osmotic mini-pumps were implanted subcutaneously between the scapulae with flexible tubing to deliver the drug directly into the tumor and brain. Two to six bolus injections of Bleomycin (1 unit/kg each) over 5–11 days produced modest (usually statistically significant, p
Phainantha Shuariorum (Melastomataceae), una Especie Nueva de la Cordillera del Cóndor, Ecuador, Disyunta de un Género Guayanés

ABSTRACT Phainantha shuariorum (Melastomataceae) from sandstone mountains of the Cordillera del Condor region in southeastern Ecuador is described and illustrated; it is a disjunct species in a genus that is otherwise known only from the Guayana Shield region of northeastern South America. It resembles P. laxiflora and P. maguirei, with which it shares the climbing, twining habit, adventitious roots at the stem nodes, and leaves alternate by abortion of one leaf per pair, but from which it differs in the tri-nerved venation.
Identity and Necessary Similarity

The Principle of the Identity of Indiscernibles (PII), commonly attributed to Leibniz, has given rise to much discussion and debate. Thus philosophers have argued over how it should be formulated, whether it is (necessarily) true, and what, if any, metaphysical consequences it has. It is not my intention to add to these discussions here, having done so elsewhere.1 Rather, I intend to introduce and defend a closely related principle which I shall, for want of a better name, refer to as The Principle of the Identity of Necessary Similarity' (PINS). In section II, I briefly recapitulate some of the distinctions and other relevant points which are customarily made in connection with (PII). This is all too familiar material, but it is necessary in order to provide a general framework of concepts in terms of which we can discuss (PINS) in an intelligible fashion. In section III, I present a formulation of (PINS), together with an explanation of how this latter is related to the more familiar (PII). I also explain how (PINS) is relevant to the problem of individuation, and the advantages which it has over (PII) in this regard.
Exploring the Potential of Mobile Phone Data in Travel Pattern Analysis

To support increasingly complex planning activities, many agencies are facing the challenges of obtaining highly nuanced travel behavior data while managing shrinking financial resources. Recent advancements in smartphones and GPS technologies present new opportunities to track travelers’ trips. Many studies have applied GPS-based data to planning and demand analysis, but cell phone (mobile phone) GPS data have not received much attention. Google location history (GLH) data provide an opportunity to explore the potential of cell phone GPS data. This paper presents the findings of a study that used GLH data, including the data-processing algorithm used to derive travel information, and their potential applications to understanding travel patterns. For the pilot study, GLH data were obtained from 25 participants over a 1-month period. The data showed that GLH provides a sufficient amount of high-resolution data that can be used to study people’s movement without a burden on the respondent. The algorithms de...
Biological Constraints Associated with Resistance to Pyrethroids in the Tobacco Bud worm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Tests were conducted to detect reasons for the loss of pyrethroid resistance which occurs in laboratory and field strains of the tobacco bud worm, Heliothis virescens (F.), in the absence of continuous exposure to pyrethroid insecticides. Larvae of a resistant strain (ICI) maintained in the laboratory developed more slowly than larvae of a susceptible laboratory strain. ICI females were less fertile and produced fewer eggs per individual than susceptible females in field tests. In addition, leI females produced significantly less pheromone and attracted fewer males than did susceptible females. Field-collected susceptible females mated more frequently than field-collected resistant females; field-collected susceptible males were more attracted to pheromone traps than field-collected resistant males. These results indicate that biological constraints are associated with pyrethroid resistance in the tobacco bud worm. Based on the origin and biochemistry of the insects tested, it was concluded that the differences in fecundity are probably associated with metabolic resistance to pyrethroids and that the deficits in reproductive success are probably associated with target site resistance to pyrethroids. These constraints may playa major role in pyrethroid resistance management programs which are based on avoidance of pyrethroid use early in the growing season.
Application of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle in Emergency Inspection on Zhanjiang Power Grid

In order to understand effect and application limit of unmanned aerial vehicle(UAV)in post-disaster emergency inspection after typhoon,three mainstream electric power inspection UAVs were used for inspection after No.14 Typhoon Kalmaegi landing on Zhanjiang in2014 so as to check and confirm flashover fault points,line environment and safe distance along lines.Inspection results indicate that flying of UAV is greatly affected by weather conditions which may affect timeliness of emergency inspection to a certain extent but has good application value for totally mastering disaster conditions along lines and assisting in formulating emergency response strategies.
Application of Deep Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest during Open Heart Surgery for Neonates and Small Infants

OBJECTIVE To investigate the neuro-pretective effect of deep hypothermic circulatory arrest(DHCA) and its impact on other major organs during the open heart surgery for neonates and small infants.METHODS From January 2006 to December 2007,44 cases with complex congenital heart diseases,aged 8-150 days and weighed 1.13-5 kg underwent open heart surgery with DHCA.Nasopharyngeal temperature was kept at 18℃-20℃ and rectal temperature at 18℃-21℃ in the course of DHCA.The duration of circulatory arrest was 5-60(30.5±12.2)min.RESULTS 4 patients died intra-operation and 4 patients died post operation,the peri-operative mortality was 18.2%,2 cases(4.5%) were caused by neurological complication.No neurological deficits were found in other patients.The palinesthesia time after operation was 1-12(7.7±6.5) h,the mechanical ventilation time was 9-123(61.1±9.3) h,ICU stay time was 41-260(83.5±36.4) h,the date of hospital stay was 13-66(27.3±12.6) days.There were 10 cases(22.7%) of new-onset dialysis in the study cohort,all patients with new-onset renal dysfunction recovered when discharged.The total chest tube drainage for the first 3 postoperative days was 25.9-85.7(58.9±24.4) ml/kg and red blood cells transfused was 0-1.2(0.64±0.40)U/kg.CONCLUSION DHCA is still a simple and effective method for central nervous system protection during the open heart surgery for neonates and small infants.With the improvement of cardiac surgery and extracorporeal circulation skills,reductions in mortality and morbidity will be likely achieved in the future.
Experimental Study on Parameter Optimization of Extraction Process of Leaf Protein from Alfalfa

Using water as extracting solvent,the extraction effects of water temperature and heating time,alfalfa mincing length,the radio of water to alfalfa,pulping time,centrifugal rev and time were studied respectively;based on the single factor experiment,the orthogonal experiment 7 factors and 2 levels were used to research the optimal extraction processing parameters of leaf protein from alfalfat,he results showed that main factors which had an effect on the extracting rate and the contents of of leaf protein were pulping time,heating time,the radio of water to alfalfa,alfalfa mincing length and water temperature.Based on the analysis of above,the optimal extraction processing parameters of leaf protein from alfalfa as follows: pulping time of 5 minutes,heating time of 12 minutes,the radio of water to alfalfa of 5,alfalfa mincing length of 1cm,water temperature of 80 ℃,centrifugal rev and time was 10 min and 3 000 r/min.The aim of this paper was to provide an basis for mass production of leaf protein.
Group psychotherapy research 25 years later.

(1975). Group Psychotherapy Research 25 Years Later. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy: Vol. 25, No. 2, pp. 159-162.