cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A novel FRET-based optical fiber biosensor for rapid detection of Salmonella typhimurium.

Abstract A biosensor that is portable and permits on-site analysis of samples would significantly reduce the large economical burden of food products recalls. A fiber optic portable biosensor utilizing the principle of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) was developed for fast detection of Salmonella typhimurium (S. typhimurium) in ground pork samples. Labeled antibody–protein G complexes were formed via the incubation of anti-Salmonella antibodies labeled with FRET donor fluorophores (Alexa Fluor 546) and protein G (PG) labeled with FRET acceptor fluorophores (Alexa Fluor 594). Utilizing silanization, the labeled antibodies–PG complexes were then immobilized on decladded, tapered silica fiber cores to form the evanescent wave-sensing region. The biosensors were tested in two different solutions: (1) PBS doped with S. typhimurium and (2) homogenized pork sample with S. typhimurium. The fiber probes tested in a S. typhimurium doped phosphate buffered solution demonstrated the feasibility of the biosensor for detecting S. typhimurium as well as determined the optimal packing density of the labeled antibody–PG complexes on the surface of fibers. The results showed that a packing density of 0.033 mg/ml produced the lowest limit of detection of 103 cells/ml with 8.2% change in fluorescence. The fiber probes placed in homogenized pork samples inoculated with S. typhimurium showed a limit of detection of 105 CFU/g with a 6.67% in fluorescence within a 5-min response time. These results showed that the FRET-based fiber optic biosensor can become a useful analytical tool for detection of S. typhimurium in real food samples.
Neuroethological Approaches to the Evolution of Neural Systems

Over the past two decades, neuroethologists have been unravelling the neural circuitry underlying some of the specialized capabilities animals use to obtain and process sensory information. Explicitly comparative studies of these systems can now be carried out to ask questions about the processes of evolutionary change in neural systems. In some cases, it can be seen how relatively minor modifications of neural networks may significantly expand the efficacy of sensory processing. Other comparative studies might ask whether expanding the number of steps involved in neural computation, or the area devoted to the representation of a particular sub-modality, constrains neural architecture in predictable ways.
Electrothermal Vaporization as an Interface for HPLC Introduction to the Inductively Coupled Plasma

Description de l'interface de vaporisation. Exemples d'utilisation sur des plomb tetra et hexa-phenyl
"Hello, I'm Carbon.": Writing about Elements and Compounds

General chemistry students are asked to assume the identity of an element and to write their own story. In the spirit of pedagogical approaches such as writing-to-learn and writing across the curriculum, this assignment has several objectives, most significantly to connect students to the discipline of chemistry in a robust way. Facilitating this process writing assignment and evaluating it using a three-dimensional grading rubric are discussed. Suggestions of how to convince students to write a story rather than a report and summaries of four student autobiographies are given.
A comparative study of the distribution of the stable crosslink, pyridinoline, in bone collagens from normal, osteoblastoma, and vitamin D-deficient chicks.

Abstract Tryptic peptides of bone collagens from 4-week-old normal, osteoblastoma and vitamin D-deficient chicks were studied using gel filtration chromatography. Absorbance at 230 nm and fluorescence (excitation at 330 nm, emission at 390 nm) of each fraction were measured. The relative quantities of each peak from the absorbance and fluorescence patterns were semiquantified by planimetry. Osteoblastoma bone collagen had a prominent, fluorescent, crosslinked peptide that contained pyridinoline. Fluorescence of this pyridinoline-containing peak in AO collagen was much greater than in the vitamin D-deficient and normal bone collagen counterparts. A comparison of fluorescence patterns clearly showed that the distribution of pyridinoline in collagen from normal and diseased bone was totally dissimilar. The dissimilarities in distribution of pyridinoline in these bone collagens may be attributed to differences in the degree of lysine hydroxylation, to the degree of mineralization, or some other factor.
Unleashing yeast genetics on a factor-independent mechanism of internal translation initiation

Translational control of gene expression is generally exerted in the initiation phase of protein synthesis. The reactions of the initiation pathway bring the ribosome to the mRNA and place the initiation codon in the peptidyl (P) site of the ribosome, base-paired with the anticodon of methionyl initiator tRNA (Met-tRNA). The aminoacyl (A) site in the ribosome is left open to accept the elongator tRNA that decodes the second codon in the ORF. Formation of this 80S initiation complex in eukaryotic cells depends on 11 or more soluble initiation factors (eIFs), identified primarily through biochemical studies of translation in rabbit reticulocyte extracts. Most of these eIFs are essential for normal cell growth in budding yeast, confirming their importance in vivo (1). Nevertheless, a number of mRNAs contain specialized regulatory elements that allow them to dispense with one or more eIFs during translation initiation. These elements, called internal ribosome entry sites (IRESs), recruit the ribosome directly to the initiation region of the mRNA. Their independence of certain eIFs allows viral mRNAs containing IRESs to be translated in infected cells where one or more eIFs have been impaired, either by the virus to provide a selective advantage for its mRNAs or by the host to impede virus gene expression. The most striking instance of this strategy is provided by cricket paralysis virus (CrPV) mRNA, which seems to be translated without any eIFs or even Met-tRNA (2). The work reported by Sarnow and colleagues (3) in this issue of PNAS shows that the unique CrPV initiation mechanism can operate in budding yeast cells, so long as the canonical initiation pathway involving initiation factor 2 (eIF2) has been impaired. These findings open up the possibility of using powerful yeast genetics to dissect the details of this remarkable mechanism and to define the factors that modulate its efficiency in living cells.
Spatially localized rhomboid is required for establishment of the dorsal-ventral axis in Drosophila oogenesis

The establishment of dorsal-ventral asymmetry of the Drosophila embryo requires a group of genes that act maternally. None of the previously identified dorsal-ventral axis genes are known to produce asymmetrically localized gene products during oogenesis. We show that rhomboid (rho), a novel member of this group, encodes a protein that is localized on the apical surface of the dorsal-anterior follicle cells surrounding the oocyte. Loss of rho function causes ventralization of the eggshell and the embryo, whereas ectopic expression leads to dorsalization of both structures. Thus, spatially restricted rho is necessary and sufficient for dorsal-ventral axis formation. We propose, based on these observations and double mutant experiments, that the spatially restricted rho protein leads to selective activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor in the dorsal follicle cells and subsequently the specification of the dorsal follicle cells.
Influence of Chemicals and Bacterial Cultures on Preservation of Colostrum

Abstract In a series of laboratory trials we examined the effect of two acids (propionic and lactic, 1%) and three bacterial cultures (Streptococus lactis, Streptococus thermophilus, and Lactobacillus bulgaricus, 1%) at three different temparatures(21, 32, and 39 C) on fermentation and preservation of colostrum. Colostrum from the first four milkings postpartum was subdivided into 100 ml aliquots prior to addition of additives. At the two higher temparatures, pH tended to increase after 12 days of fermentation for the control, lactic acid, and bacterial cultures. Propionic acid caused the pH to remain low after 23 days fermentation at all three temparatures. Additional laboratory trials showed that 1% formic acid, and formaldehyde reduced protein degradation at 21 and 32 C compared to naturally fermented colostrum. These chemical additives apparently retarded microbial growth and effectively preserved colostrum at high temparatures.
Situated Social Identities Constrain Morally Defensible Choices: Commentary on Bennis, Medin, & Bartels (2010).

Conceptual distinctions that loom large to philosophers—such as the distinction between utilitarian and deontic decision norms—may be far less salient to most other mortals. Building on an intuitive-politician model of judgment and choice and on the empirical work reported by Bennis, Medin, and Bartels (2010, this issue), we argue that the overriding goal of most decision makers in the paradigms under scrutiny is to offer judgments that are readily defensible and that reinforce their social identities as both cognitively flexible (responsive to evidence and cost-benefit considerations) and morally principled (prepared to defend sacred values and censure those who do not). People are best classified neither as utilitarians nor Kantians but rather as pragmatic social beings embedded in complex cultural-political systems.
Nanoelectronics: Nothing is like a vacuum.

Nanoscale charge channels combine the benefits of vacuum tubes with solid-state electronics.
Monte Carlo calculated correction factors for primary standards of air kerma.

Many laboratories with cavity chambers as primary standards for air kerma are considering using additional Monte Carlo calculated correction factors, in particular the correction for attenuation and scatter in the walls, K wall , and possibly the correction for point of measurement, K an . Standards labs also use Monte Carlo calculated Spencer-Attix stopping-power ratios for graphite to air. The purpose of this article is to investigate the sensitivity of these calculations to their details and to assign uncertainties to the calculated values. We also investigate the correction needed for the Canadian primary standard to account for a polystyrene insulator, K comp and find that it is quite large (1.0046±0.0017). The article shows that the values of correction factors are very robust and insensitive to most details of the calculations except the values of the underlying electron stopping powers which have a significant effect on the stopping-power ratio and on K comp . The 1% uncertainties on the photon cross-sections have a negligible effect on these correction factors except for K comp . As a result of these investigations, with no change in the stopping power data used, the Canadian primary standard of air kerma in a 60 Co beam needs to be increased by 0.54%.
Investment in innovation

This paper reviews briefly the importance of the U.S.investment in innovation. It then reiterates some of the statistics that support a growing concern related to the declining growth rate of innovation. The importance of business investment in the innovation process is identified as a key element in economic progress. Several charts and graphs are used to illustrate this point. Factors that influence investment are discussed. Finally specific recommendations are made that should be considered by both the public and private sectors.
The Poetry of Friendship

Using the chapter ‘De l’amitie’ from Montaigne’s Essais as a guide to the qualities of friendship, this article compares, on one hand, the qualities of seventeenth-century poems of direct address in which the poet assumes a position of friendship with respect to the person addressed to the qualities, on the other hand, of poems claiming love as the basis of the relationship between speaker and explicit reader. Though a category ‘poetry of friendship’ is not so widely accepted as ‘love poems’, this brief note suggests that such a type of poem does exist and that it is dominated by themes of consolation and admonition.
Total Skin-Sparing Mastectomy in BRCA Mutation Carriers

Background Total skin-sparing mastectomy (TSSM) with preservation of the nipple–areolar complex skin has become increasingly accepted as an oncologically safe procedure. Oncologic outcomes after TSSM in BRCA mutation carriers have not been well-studied.
Transcriptional regulation of phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase in pheochromocytomas from patients with von Hippel-Lindau syndrome and multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2.

: Pheochromocytomas in multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN-2) express phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PNMT), the enzyme that catalyzes conversion of norepinephrine to epinephrine, whereas those in von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) syndrome do not. Consequently, pheochromocytomas in MEN-2 produce epinephrine, whereas those in VHL syndrome produce mainly norepinephrine. This study examined whether transcription factors known to regulate expression of PNMT explain the different tumor phenotypes in these syndromes. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blotting were used to assess levels of mRNA and protein for the glucocorticoid receptor, early growth response 1 (Egr-1), the Sp1 transcription factor (Sp1), and MYC-associated zinc finger protein (MAZ) in 6 MEN-2 and 13 VHL tumors. Results were cross-checked with data obtained using microarray gene expression profiling in a further set of 10 MEN-2 and 12 VHL tumors. Pheochromocytomas in MEN-2 and VHL syndrome did not differ in expression of the glucocorticoid receptor, Egr-1, Sp1, or MAZ as assessed by quantitative PCR and Western blotting. Microarray data also indicated no relevant differences in expression of the glucocorticoid receptor, Egr-1, MAZ, and the AP2 transcription factor. Thus, our results do not support a role for the above transcription factors in determining differences in expression of PNMT in pheochromocytomas from patients with VHL syndrome and MEN-2. Microarray analysis, however, did indicate differences in expression of genes involved in neural crest cell lineage and chromaffin cell development, consistent with differential survival of PNMT-expressing cells in the two syndromes.
Farnesyl-protein transferase and geranylgeranyl-protein transferase assays using phosphocellulose paper absorption.

Abstract Farnesyl-protein transferase catalyzes the reaction of farnesyl pyrophosphate and its accepters to yield farnesyl protein and pyrophosphate. Geranylgeranyl-protein transferases are distinct enzymes that catalyze the reaction of geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate and their accepters. We used tritiated isoprenoid pyrophosphate donors and synthetic peptide accepters to measure enzyme activities. The peptide accepters contained basic amino acid residues on the amino terminus of tetrapeptide substrate determinants specific for each enzyme. Following the incubation, portions of the reaction mixture were applied to numbered phosphocellulose paper strips that were immersed in 95% ethanol/75 mM phosphoric acid (1/1; v/v). Acid promoted binding of positively charged peptide substrates and products to the negatively charged paper, and alcohol eluted the radioactive prenyl groups. Paper strips were processed in the same container in batches for 40 min, and radioactivity adsorbed to the strips was then measured by liquid scintillation spectrometry. The use of peptides makes the expression and purification of recombinant substrates in bacteria unnecessary. However, most proteins bind quantitatively to phosphocellulose at acidic pH, and the washing procedure developed for peptide substrates is applicable for measuring prenyltransferase activities with recombinant Pas proteins as acceptor.
Fringe benefits, income tax exemptions, and implicit subsides

Abstract Tax exemptions for fringe benefits implicitly subsidize employment and consumption. This paper presents a partial equilibrium model of optimal compensation which permits exact measures of subsidy magnitudes and distributions. Under proportional taxation, tax exemptions represent savings of approximately 5–10 percent of compensation costs to individual employers or employees. As much as 80 percent of this saving represents reduced income tax payments. Alternative income tax schemes might achieve specific policy goals with fewer distortions. If government raises tax rates to insure that exemptions for benefits do not reduce tax revenue in the economy as a whole, the net gain is much smaller, approximately 1.5 percent of compensation.
Advancing Women of Color in the Academy: Research Perspectives on Mentoring and Strategies for Success

This issue of Mentoring & Tutoring: Partnership in Learning includes research from scholars representing the United States (California, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and Texas) and New Zealand....
Energy averaging and the statistical multistep direct process

The theory of statistical multistep direct reactions is revised by including an energy average of the wave functions involved. As a consequence it is found that the transition matrix element which must be used at each step is in the DWBA form, resolving an important difficulty of the theory.
Both smoking reduction with nicotine replacement therapy and motivational advice increase future cessation among smokers unmotivated to quit.

Smokers not currently interested in quitting (N = 616) were randomized to receive telephone-based (a) reduction counseling plus nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) plus brief advice to quit, (b) motivational advice plus brief advice, or (c) no treatment. More smokers in the reduction (43%) and motivational (51%) conditions made a 24-hr quit attempt over 6 months than smokers in the no-treatment condition (16%; p or = .05). Similarly, 18%, 23%, and 4% of each condition were abstinent (7-day point prevalence) at 6 months (p < or = .01). Results indicate smoking reduction using NRT does not undermine cessation but rather increases the likelihood of quitting to a degree similar to motivational advice.
OBSERVATIONS OF TITAN'S MESOSPHERE

We have recorded spectra of Titan's ν4 band of CH4 at a higher resolving power (R = 70,000) than prior measurements to better constrain the thermal structure of Titan's atmosphere from 100 to 600 km altitude. Radiative transfer analyses of the spectra indicate a temperature profile below 300 km that is consistent with past measurements. The high resolving power of our observations provides the first infrared measurement of Titan's thermal structure between 300 and 600 km. We detect the presence of a mesosphere, with a drop of temperature above 380 km altitude of at least 15 K, consistent with radiative cooling of the atmosphere by emission from hydrocarbons.
The exponent of the superfluid density of 4He near Tλ

Abstract A new analysis of superfluid density measurements near T λ which includes a regular temperature dependence of the leading amplitude k(P, T) yielded the result ς = 0.672 ± 0.001 for the exponent of ϱ s . This work eliminates the small discrepancy between the previous estimate ς = 0.675 based upon a temperature independent k(P), and the renormalization group estimates of 0.669 ± 0.002 or 0.672 ± 0.002.
Nature of temperature gradients in capillary zone electrophoresis

Abstract An expression for the radial temperature profile in capillary zone electrophoresis was derived, taking into account the temperature dependence of the buffer electrical conductivity and the polyimide coating of the quartz capillary. Calculations show that in typical capillary zone electrophoresis experiments; i.e. , capillaries with 50–100 μm I.D., 375 μm O.D., and up to 5 W power input, the temperature profile rigorously derived is nearly identical to a parabolic profile. At high input powers, the parabolic approximation underestimates the temperature at the capillary center.
Kinetic studies on variant heart-type lactate dehydrogenases in the frog, Rana pipiens.

Abstract 1. 1. HLDH is much more variable electrophoretically than is MLDH in these frogs. 2. 2. Kinetic differences between variant HLDHs are minimal. The fact that the kinetic properties of HLDH seem to the same (with one possible exception) from population to population in quite different environments suggests that these electrophoretically detected variants are selectively neutral with respect to one another. 3. 3. HLDH shows both warm-adapted and cold-adapted properties.
Renal Access by Urologist or Radiologist During Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

Abstract Purpose: We evaluated percutaneous access for percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) that was obtained by interventional radiologists or urologists at a single academic institution and compared access outcomes and complications. Patients and Methods: The records of 233 patients who underwent PCNL at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center between 2000 and 2008 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were stratified according to percutaneous access by urologists (group 1) or a group of interventional radiologists (group 2) in 195 and 38 patients, respectively. Radiologist-acquired access was performed for collecting system decompression in 33.3% of patients in group 2. A predicted access difficulty score was calculated using demographic, stone, and operative variables. Percutaneous access complications and stone-free rates were compared between groups. Results: Mean patient age was 53 ± 16 years (51% male, range 19–90 y) and 58 ± 17 years (62% male, range 25–95 y) in groups 1 and 2, respectively....
School-based interventions for obesity: Current approaches and future prospects.

Obesity is a serious, prevalent, and recurring disorder that affects many school children. There are numerous physical, and perhaps psychosocial, difficulties associated with being overweight. This article examines three major types of intervention strategies that have been utilized in school-based weight-reduction programs. Behavior modification, dietary control/nutrition education, and physical activities have been successfully combined in multificeted obesity interventions to produce modest weight loss. Improved research designs, long-term follow-up, further examination of social supports, and prevention strategies are needed.
Maize and Sorghum Simulation in Diverse Texas Environments

Crop models for decision making should accurately simulate grain yields across a wide range of soils and climate regimes. This study was designed to evaluate two models' ability to simulate plot grain yields under diverse weather conditions and soils in Texas. The objective was to compare measured grain yields of maize (Zea mays L.) and sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] with grain yields simulated by the ALMANAC (Agricultural Land Management Alternatives with Numerical Assessment Criteria) model and to compare measured maize yields with grain yields simulated by a new version of the CERES-Maize (Crop-Environment Resource Synthesis) model. Using yield performance trials, both models were tested for their ability to simulate the mean yield for five years at each location and their ability to describe year-to-year variability in measured yields. Both models were tested at nine locations for maize and ALMANAC was tested at eight locations for sorghum. Model inputs included parameters for the soil type, planting dates, planting rates, and locally measured weather data. Mean simulated grain yield for each site was within 10% of the mean measured grain yield for all cases, except for CERES at Thrall, where mean simulated yield was 13% lower than mean measured yield. When the models did not account for a significant amount of the year-to-year variability in measured grain yield at a site, it was usually due to the narrow range of measured grain yields. The soils, weather, and crop parameter data sets developed here can be useful starting points for deriving data at similar sites, giving model users examples of realistic input data.
A One and a Two … Expanding Roles for Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerases in Metabolism

In two related papers in this issue, Bai et al. (2011a, 2011b) observe that PARP-1- or PARP-2-deficient mice show increased energy expenditure and protection against diet-induced obesity. This metabolic phenotype is achieved, in part, through SIRT1 activation, either by increasing NAD + levels or by promoting SIRT1 expression.
Solution of the Poisson-Boltzmann equation for surface excesses of ions in the diffuse layer at the oxide-electrolyte interface

Abstract Models of the electrode-electrolyte interface must include some description of physical structure at the interface and some description of energetics of adsorption. Traditional Gouy-Chapman-Stern models have been developed for interfaces charged by adsorption of a potential-determining ion or by an extermally applied potential. Thus the primary independent variable in the model is the surface potential. In contrast, oxide surfaces are charged as a result of specific chemical affinity of the surface for charged ions in the bulk of solution, species which are not part of the oxide lattice. Thus neither the potential-determining ion nor the external applied potential paradigm is appropriate for the oxide surface. The basis for the model must be the fixed chemical affinity of surface hydroxyl groups for charged species in solution. A mathematical approach to modeling the oxide-electrolyte interface in terms of a Gouy-Chapman-Stern (GCS) structure has been developed which includes consideration of electrostatic and chemical energy of adsorption at the surface and inner Helmholtz planes, and solution of the Poisson-Boltmann equation for concentration of ions in the diffuse layer. Whereas the roughness of oxide surfaces at an atomic level precludes strict interpretation of the oxide-electrolyte interface in terms of a GCS structure, the interface does exhibit average properties describable in terms of a GCS structure. In contrast to previous models the approach presented here allows consideration of any number and kind of ions in solution and at the surface, and is applicable to multi-component equilibria in membranes as well as at charged interfaces. For colloidal suspensions of oxides in dilute electrolytes, it is shown that a significant fraction of electrolyte ions can be attracted to or repelied from the diffuse layer. The diffuse layer concentrations must be taken into account when computing mass balances and considering evidence for specific adsorption of Particular ions
The effect of tannic acid on electron images of capillary endothelial cell membranes.

Treatment of endothelial cells with tannic acid-glutaraldehyde results in an increase in thickness and electron density of the outer leaflet of surface membranes. The dependency of this effect upon subsequent staining with heavy metals indicates that enhanced density results from binding of heavy metals to sites of tannic acid deposition at the cell surface. When cells are treated with tannic acid after fixation in glutaraldehyde and osmium tetroxide, both inner and outer leaflets of surface membranes and intracellular membranes exhibit an increase in thickness and electron density. This effect is likely due to permeation of osmicated membranes by tannic acid and indicates that tannic acid is able to associate with both surfaces of cellular membranes and acts as a mordant, facilitating heavy metal binding which results in enhanced density and contrast. Uranium and lead are more effective in imparting electron density at sites of tannic acid deposition han osmium.
Generation of asymmetry and segregation of germ-line granules in early C. elegans embryos

Germ-line granules in C. elegans embryos (P granules) can be visualized by immunofluorescence microscopy using a monoclonal antibody. In mutant zygotes with abnormal spindle orientations and in wild-type zygotes treated with the microtubule inhibitors nocodazole, colcemid, vinblastine, and griseofulvin, both P-granule segregation to the posterior pole and the concomitant pseudocleavage occur apparently normally, but the normally concurrent migration of the pronuclei is inhibited. Conversely, treatment of wild-type embryos with the microfilament inhibitors cytochalasins D and B inhibits P-granule segregation and pseudocleavage, as well as other manifestations of polarity, without preventing pronuclear migration. The results suggest that P-granule segregation does not require either the spindle or cytoplasmic microtubules, but that this process as well as generation of other asymmetries does require cytoskeletal functions that depend on microfilaments.
Complications after pancreatectomy for neuroendocrine tumors: a national study

Background Although resection of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) has a demonstrated survival advantage, further evaluation of the overall morbidity of these procedures is needed. Our objective was to examine a composite outcome of major postoperative complications, including in-hospital mortality. Materials and Methods The Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS), 1998–2006, was used to identify all patients with a diagnosis of PNET who had undergone pancreatectomy. Candidate predictors consisted of patient and hospital characteristics. Univariate analyses included χ2 tests. Multivariate analyses were performed with logistic regression to determine which predictors were independently associated with the composite outcome. Results A total of 463 (2274 nationally weighted) patients were identified. Overall composite postoperative complication rate was 29.6%. The majority of complications involved infections (11.1%), digestive complications (8.8%), or pulmonary compromise (7.3%). In-hospital mortality rate was 1.7%. High Charlson comorbidity score, procedure type of Whipple or total pancreatectomy, and urban hospital location were all associated with significantly increased complication rate. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated: Charlson score of ≥3 versus score of 0 (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 4.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.1–8.3), surgery type of Whipple or total pancreatectomy versus partial pancreatectomy (adjusted OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.8–4.1), and hospital location of urban versus rural (adjusted OR 4.5, 95% CI 3.0–6.9). Conclusions While in-hospital mortality rates are low for surgical resection of PNETs, there is a considerable overall postoperative complication rate associated with these procedures. Careful patient and surgery selection may be the key to a surgical treatment approach for PNETs that may optimize outcomes.
On the spectacular structural isomorphism between CnHs monoradical and Cn+sHs+3 diradical benzenoid hydrocarbons: from reactive intermediates to vacancy (Hole) defects in graphite.

The formula/structure informatics of monoradical and diradical benzenoid hydrocarbons that are potential reactive intermediates is studied. Some new enumeration and structural results with analytical expressions are presented. The topological paradigm and one-to-one correspondence between the monoradical and diradical constant-isomer series is demonstrated. Constant-isomer benzenoid monoradicals of the formula CnHs have a one-to-one correspondence in isomer number and topology to constant-isomer diradicals of the formula Cn+sHs+3. Some electronic properties of benzenoid radicals are delineated. Excising out a monoradical or diradical benzenoid carbon molecule from a perfect hexagonal graphite layer leaves a matching monoradical or diradical vacancy hole defect called an antimolecule; this observation can be generalized to include excising out all nondisjoint and obvious benzenoid polyradicals from a perfect (Kekulean) hexagonal graphite layer. It is shown that the characteristics of graphite vacancies (an...
Deformable surfaces: a free-form shape representation

This paper presents a technique for constructing shape representation from images using free- form deformable surfaces. We model an object as a closed surface that is deformed subject to attractive fields generated by input data points and features. Features affect the global shape of the surface while data points control its local shape. The authors' approach is used to segment objects even in cluttered or unstructured environment. The algorithm is general in that it makes few assumptions on the type of features, the nature of the data, and the type of objects. This paper presents results in a wide range of applications reconstruction of smooth isolated objects such as human faces, reconstruction of structured objects such as polyhedra, and segmentation of complex scenes with mutually occluding objects. We have successfully tested the algorithm using data from different sensors including gray-coding range finders and video cameras, using one or several images.
Shiga toxin binds to activated platelets.

Summary. Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is associated with acute renal failure in children and can be caused by Shiga toxin (Stx)-producing Escherichia coli. Thrombocytopenia and formation of renal thrombi are characteristic of HUS, suggesting that platelet activation is involved in its pathogenesis. However, whether Shiga toxin directly activates platelets is controversial. The present study evaluates if potential platelet sensitization during isolation by different procedures influences platelet interaction with Shiga toxin. Platelets isolated from sodium citrate anticoagulated blood were exposed during washing to EDTA and higher g forces than platelets prepared from acid-citrate-dextrose (ACD) plasma. Platelet binding of Stx was significantly higher in EDTA-washed preparations relative to ACD-derived platelets. Binding of Stx was also increased with ACD-derived platelets when activated with thrombin (1 U mL−1) and exposure of the Gb3 Stx receptor was detected only on platelets subjected to EDTA, higher g forces or thrombin. EDTA-exposed platelets lost their normal discoid shape and were larger. P-selectin (CD62P) exposure was significantly increased in EDTA-washed preparations relative to ACD-derived platelets, suggesting platelet activation. Taken together, these results suggest that direct binding of Stx occurs only on ‘activated’ platelets rather than on resting platelets. The ability of Stx to interact with previously activated platelets may be an important element in understanding the pathogenesis of HUS.
A new, arborescent species of Byttneria (Sterculiaceae) from French Guiana.

from French Guiana is described and illustrated, and its taxonomic affinities are discussed. Also, a key to the species of Byttneria that occur in the Guianas is provided. The genus Byttneria Loefl. (Sterculiaceae) includes about 130 to 140 species distributed throughout the tropics. The genus is thought to have originated in the Americas, but at present there are three centers of species concentration: the Amazonian Hylaea, Madagascar, and Southeast Asia (Cristobal, 1976). All of the species described heretofore are lianas or shrubs with the possible exception of B. fruticosa Schumann ex Engl. and B. glabra Schumann & Engl. (both sect. Vahihara Arenes). These two East African species were described as small or shrubby trees. Exploration by Scott Mori and collaborators in French Guiana however has yielded a new, arborescent species of Byttneria. Terminology, especially that relating to floral morphology, in the ensuing description follows Cristobal (1976). Leinfellner (1960) may also be consulted for a discussion of floral development and morphology in Byttneria.
Anopheles Fibrinogen-related Proteins Provide Expanded Pattern Recognition Capacity against Bacteria and Malaria Parasites

The fibrinogen-related protein family (FREP, also known as FBN) is an evolutionarily conserved immune gene family found in mammals and invertebrates. It is the largest pattern recognition receptor gene family in Anopheles gambiae, with as many as 59 putative members, while the Drosophila melanogaster genome has only 14 known FREP members. Our sequence and phylogenetic analysis suggest that this remarkable gene expansion in the mosquito is the result of tandem duplication of the fibrinogen domain. We found that the majority of the FREP genes displayed immune-responsive transcription after challenge with bacteria, fungi, or Plasmodium, and these expression patterns correlated strongly with gene phylogeny and chromosomal location. Using RNAi-mediated gene-silencing assays, we further demonstrated that some FREP members are essential factors of the mosquito innate immune system that are required for maintaining immune homeostasis, and members of this family have complementary and synergistic functions. One of the most potent anti-Plasmodium FREP proteins, FBN9, was found to interact with both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and strongly co-localized with both rodent and human malaria parasites in the mosquito midgut epithelium, suggesting that its defensive activity involves direct interaction with the pathogen. Interestingly, FBN9 formed dimers that bound to the bacterial surfaces with different affinities. Our findings indicate that the A. gambiae FREP gene family plays a central role in the mosquito innate immune system and provides an expanded pattern recognition and anti-microbial defense repertoire.
Some aspects of minimum variance unbiased estimation in presence of ancillary statistics

Abstract We show that the fact that any uniformly minimum variance unbiased estimator (UMVUE) is uncorrelated with all unbiased estimators of zero implies certain conclusions of the Rao–Blackwell and Lehmann–Scheffe theorems. We also show that the conditional mean and variance of any UMVUE, given any ancillary statistic, must be independent of the ancillary. We discuss some implications of these results when a minimal sufficient statistic is incomplete and contains ancillaries.
An Approach To The Establishment Of Technique/Exposure Ranges In Diagnostic Radiology

The Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering development of exposure recommendations for diagnostic radiology. This paper describes one aspect of this effort: the determination of technique/exposure ranges corresponding to the range of acceptable radiographs for three commonly employed projections - P/A chest, A/P abdomen and A/P lumbosacral spine. The Radiology Departments of nine Manhattan medical facilities will each provide 100 cases for each projection for patients in the thickness range of 21-25cm. Data collected for each of these 2700 radiographs will include: patient x-ray technique (kVp, mAs), patient thickness, image receptor data (film, screen, grid), patient entrance exposure, beam HVL, focal spot size, image system speed and contrast, and the radiologist's assessment of radiographic quality. The design of the study and preliminary data will be presented. The study will be completed in 1981.© (1980) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Primary structure and biological activity of a third gonadotropin-releasing hormone from lamprey brain.

Previous studies have led to the identification of two molecular forms of GnRH (GnRH-I and II) in the brain of the sea lamprey, Petromyzon marinus. From analysis of these two forms, the primary structure of GnRH-I and the amino acid composition of GnRH-II were determined. We have now isolated a third molecular form of GnRH (GnRH-III) from the brain of this species that is different from GnRH-I and -II. The primary structure of GnRH-III is pGlu-His-Trp-Ser-His-Asp-Trp-Lys- Pro-Gly-NH2. A synthetic decapeptide with this amino acid sequence was chromatographically identical to natural GnRH-III. Intraperitoneal injection of synthetic lamprey GnRH-III (0.1 microgram/g) produced a significant (P < 0.05) elevation of plasma progesterone (31% over basal values) in female lampreys that was comparable to that produced by the same dose of lamprey GnRH-I (36% over basal). The elevation in plasma estradiol produced by lamprey GnRH-III (244% over basal) was significantly (P < 0.05) less than the elevation produced by G...
THE CONCEPT OF GEOGRAPHY AS A SCIENCE OF SPACE, FROM KANT AND HUMBOLDT TO HETTNER

(1958). THE CONCEPT OF GEOGRAPHY AS A SCIENCE OF SPACE, FROM KANT AND HUMBOLDT TO HETTNER. Annals of the Association of American Geographers: Vol. 48, No. 2, pp. 97-108.
The dynamic variation of particle capture efficiency during ash deposition in coal-fired combustors

Dynamic growth of ash deposits was studied in a carefully controlled environment using high speed video cameras and temperature controlled deposition probes. Deposition data are reported as a function of coal type, extent of particle burnout, and time. Five coals varying in rank from bituminous to lignite were tested. The coals were tested at conditions simulating three locations in a boiler: the near-flame region, the superheater region, and the convection pass. Details of deposit formation were monitored for 90 minutes for each coal at each test condition. A particularly interesting results is that particle capture efficiencies, the fraction of flyash particles that adheres to the probe upon contact, have a strong time dependence, varying from near zero to near unity during deposit formation. Dependence of ash deposition on coal rank and location of the boiler is also discussed.
A new method for detecting eye movement in sleep.

A new method of detecting eye movements (EMs) during sleep is described. The method consists of an electromechanical measurement using micro-miniaturized silver cup electrodes. These electrodes, when placed on the eyelid, produce electro-oculographic (EOG) recordings similar to the usual electrical method. The eyelid method offers the advantage of a relatively “clean” recording showing only EMs and movement artifact, with no intermingling of EEG and EOG. Furthermore, the method is at least one and one half times as sensitive as the usual EOG technique. In addition to these two special advantages, it also offers the features of conventional methods, convenience of DC coupling, independence from signal converters, ease of analyzing EM directionality, and durability despite the small size of the electrodes. Fabrication of the electrodes, recording configurations, and simultaneous comparisons to both the usual EOG technique and to a strain gauge method are described.
Effects of saturation on the nonlinear incoherent-erasure joint-transform correlator

A photorefractive nonlinear joint-transform correlator based on the incoherent-to-coherent conversion is presented and analyzed. The nonlinearity of this incoherent-erasure joint-transform correlator (IEJTC) is tunable from the classical-matched to the phase-extraction limit. Correlation peak intensity, sharpness, and discrimination ability increase with the incoherent beam intensity. At easily achievable incoherent-to-coherent beam intensity ratios the IEJTC has its optimal performance, at which the IEJTC approaches the performance of the inverse filter for clean inputs and surpasses the inverse filter performance for noisy inputs. We examine this nonlinearity by using the transform method of analysis and computer simulations. Our study focuses on the effect of saturation on the correlation ability. Our results provide an explanation of why extending the severity of saturation by increasing the incoherent-to-coherent intensity ratio beyond a turning point results in lower optical efficiency, degraded correlation peak, and increased higher-order harmonics.
Intravitreal pegaptanib as adjunctive treatment for stage 3+ ROP shown to be effective in a prospective, randomized, controlled multicenter clinical trial.

PurPose. Both intravitreal pegaptanib with laser therapy and intravitreal bevacizumab monotherapy have been found to be more efficacious than laser therapy alone in prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trials. results. The use of pegaptanib with laser therapy was efficacious in 91.2% compared with 69.0% in controls. The use of bevacizumab monotherapy was efficacious in 95.7% compared with 78.1% in controls. ConClusions. The use of anti–vascular endothelial growth factor therapy for retinopathy of prematurity has been shown to be efficacious, without toxicity reported to date; however, the best drug and dose which allows greatest efficacy with fewest recurrences and without toxicity must be determined.
Illness experience and reasons for nonadherence among individuals with bipolar disorder who are poorly adherent with medication.

Abstract Aim Nonadherent individuals are the most likely to avoid participating in research studies, thus limiting potential opportunities to develop evidence-based approaches for adherence enhancement. This mixed-method analysis evaluated factors related to adherence among 20 poorly adherent community mental health clinic patients with bipolar disorder (BD). Methods Illness experience was evaluated with qualitative interview. Quantitative assessments measured symptoms (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, Young Mania Rating Scale, Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale), adherence behavior, and treatment attitudes. Poor adherence was defined as missing 30% or more of medication. Results Minorities (80%), unmarried individuals (95%), and those with substance abuse (65%) predominated in this nonadherent group of patients with BD. Individuals were substantially depressed (mean Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, 19.2), had at least some manic symptoms (mean Young Mania Rating Scale, 13.6), and had moderate psychopathology (mean Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, 41.2). Rates of missed medications were 41% to 43%. Forgetting to take medications was the top reason for nonadherence (55%), followed by side effects (20%). Disorganized home environments (30%), concern regarding having to take long-term medications (25%) or fear of side effects (25%), and insufficient information regarding BD (35%) were relatively common. Almost one third of patients had individuals in their core social network who specifically advised against medication. Access problems included difficulty paying for medications among more than half of patients. Interestingly, patients reported good relationships with their providers. Conclusions Forgetting to take medication and problems with side effects are primary drivers of nonadherence. Lack of medication routines, unsupportive social networks, insufficient illness knowledge, and treatment access problems may likewise affect overall adherence. Complementary quantitative and qualitative data collection can identify reasons for nonadherence and may inform specific clinical approaches to enhance adherence.
Fourier-analytic technique for the separation of the signature of atmospheric ClO absorption from the solar background spectrum in the near ultraviolet

The high-resolution CIO absorption signature in the region of 308.1 nm has a very low absorption fraction, of the order of 6 x 10(-5), and linewidths comparable with those of the solar background spectrum. Because of the need for reliable absorption measurements of the abundance of this species, which is important in ozone photochemistry, a Fourier-analysis-based technique for the deconvolution of atmospheric solar absorption spectra in this region has been developed. The technique utilizes the regularity of the CIO spectrum and results in a significant reduction in the minimum signal-to-noise required for the retrieval of CIO abundances from absorption spectra.
On SHiPs and safety: a journey of safe patient handling in pediatrics.

Nursing personnel have consistently been ranked among the top ten professions impacted by musculoskeletal injuries. Inpatient pediatric nurses witnessed an increase in injuries and upon discovering limited evidence applicable to pediatrics, conducted a research study to evaluate the effectiveness of a safe patient handling program. Surveys were distributed to assess risk and workplace safety perceptions. Post-implementation, surveys revealed a statistically significant (p > 0.0001) increase in staff perception of workplace safety, reduction in risk perception for several nursing tasks, and reduction in injury related costs. As a result of this program, workplace safety was improved through education and equipment provision.