cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Eosinophilic pustular folliculitis.

We present the case of an American adult patient with eosinophilic pustular folliculitis. The majority of previously reported patients have been Japanese. Eosinophilic pustular folliculitis is a rare condition characterized by recurrent, peripherally expanding, sterile papulopustules and plaques. Hair-bearing areas such as the face, chest, back, and extensor surfaces of the upper arms are usually involved, although palms and soles can be affected as well. Histologic examination shows subcomeal and intrafollicular abscesses and spongiosis of the outer root sheath. The eosinophil is a prominent infiltrating cell, although mononuclear cells and neutrophils may also be seen. There is often a dense perivascular infiltrate of eosinophils in the dermis. Our patient was unusual in that he did not respond to multiple therapeutic regimens.
Immunochemical studies on lens protein-protein complexes I. The heterogeneity and structure of complexed α-crystallin

Abstract A buffered extract of young cattle lenses filtered through Diaflo XM-300 membranes, retaining molecules above 300 000 daltons, was found to contain in the non-filterable fraction constituting 50% of soluble lens proteins α-and β-crystallins. The non-filterable fraction of soluble proteins from mature cattle lenses, constituting 87% of all crystallins, contained not only α- and β-crystallins, but γ-crystallins as well. Only α-crystallin, with a molecular weight above 300 000 daltons, was expected to remain in the non-filterable fraction. All of the β-crystallins, which have a molecular weight below 200 000 daltons, and γ-crystallins, with a molecular weight of about 20 000 daltons, if free in solution and not complexed, were expected to be in the filtrate. The lens proteins with a molecular weight above 300 000 daltons from young lens tissue were separated by gel chromatography (Bio-Rad A 15 m) into free α-crystallin followed by an α-β-crystallin complex. By the same procedure, the proteins above 300 000 daltons from mature lenses were separated into two complexes of quantitatively different α-β-γ-crystallin composition. A dependence of lens protein complex formation on the ionic composition of the solvent was observed. The differences between calf cortical and bovine nuclear complexes, found in buffer extracts, were much less pronounced in water extracts in which both contained γ-crystallins. Specific dissociation of the lens protein complexes was obtained by use of an anti-α-crystallin immunoadsorbent, as shown by the passage of the previously retained β- and γ-crystallins through a Diaflo XM-300 membrane. An anti-β-crystallin immunoadsorbent reacting with complexes from mature lens tissue yielded a non-filterable α-crystallin and a filterable γ-crystallin in the supernatant, indicating an absence of direct α-γ complexes. These results point to a potentially central role of β-crystallins in complex formation among lens proteins.
Are landscapes over-irrigated in Southwest Florida? A spatial–temporal analysis of observed data

Monthly water billing records for eleven cities in Hillsborough County Florida were available from 2001 through 2007. Irrigation was estimated from total water use based on two different methods to estimate basic indoor water use and assumed impervious areas. Estimated irrigation use was compared with a calculated irrigation requirement by a water balance to test if homeowners were over-irrigating. Results showed that on average, the mean estimated irrigation was lower than the calculated irrigation requirements in most of the cities and years given the uncertainties in this analysis. The calculated irrigation ranged from 612 to 744 mm year−1, whereas the average estimated irrigation ranged from 264 to 684 mm year−1. However, there were some homeowners that greatly exceeded the calculated irrigation requirement. The estimated irrigation increased temporarily in areas under urban development, which was evidenced by built landscape expansion. Good correlation was found between the annual estimated irrigation and the annual calculated irrigation requirements, when the per capita method was used, but not between the annual estimated irrigation and the annual rainfall. Future conservation programs can use this methodology to identify users where substantial opportunity for water savings exists.
Is betamethasone effective longer than 7 days after treatment

Abstract Objective: To determine whether perinatal outcomes are influenced by the interval between antenatal betamethasone administration and delivery. Methods: We did a retrospective cohort analysis of live-born singleton neonates born between 28 and 34 weeks’ gestation after a single course of betamethasone, defined as two 12-mg doses over 24 hours. Subjects were grouped according to length of interval between initial betamethasone dose and delivery (1–2 days, 3–7 days, and 8–14 days). We excluded women who had membranes ruptured for longer than 24 hours before delivery, delivery before the second dose of betamethasone, or more than two doses of betamethasone. Data were analyzed by Student t test, χ2 test, or Fisher exact test. Multiple logistic regression analyses were done using suspected risk factors for respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) and intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH). We calculated that a sample of 200 women would provide more than 80% power to detect a 50% reduction in incidence of RDS for a two-sided test of significance at a critical level of .05. Results: Among 216 women, 97 delivered in 1–2 days, 78 in 3–7 days, and 41 in 8–14 days after a single course of betamethasone. Groups were similar in selected demographics, tocolytic exposure, gestational age at delivery, modes of delivery, and mean birth weights. There were no significant differences in frequencies of RDS (39.2%, 41.1%, and 36.6%, respectively) or grades 3–4 IVH (1.1%, 1.3%, and 0%, respectively) between groups. Frequencies of selected perinatal infectious outcomes also were similar between groups. Multiple logistic regression analyses found no association between RDS or IVH and delivery more than 7 days from betamethasone therapy. Conclusion: There were no differences in perinatal outcomes in pregnancies delivered 8–14 days after antenatal exposure to betamethasone compared with those delivered within 7 days of exposure.
Chicago's persistent traction problem some issues at stake

Laws have been enacted to enable a consolidation of Chicago's transit lines under an indeterminate franchise, but 120 enabling ordinance has been presented to the voters. Sharp division of opinion as to what the franchise should provide have arisen.
Long-term potentiation of hippocampal synaptic transmission affects rate of behavioral learning.

Electrical stimulation techniques were used to produce a long-lasting potentiation of synaptic transmission in the hippocampus of naive rabbits. Animals were then classically conditioned. Long-term potentiation of the hippocampus before training increased the rate at which animals subsequently learned the conditioning task. This result has significance for potential cellular mechanisms of associative learning.
Freeze tolerance adaptations in the centipede, Lithobius forficatus

Studies were conducted to investigate the adaptations of the wood centipede, Lithobius forficatus, to winter conditions. During winter centipedes were freeze tolerant. However, inoculative freezing initiated from external ice was required for survival of freezing. Because the lower lethal temperature (after 24 hr exposure) was only −6°C, it appears that the insulation provided by the overwintering microhabitat under large logs is important for survival. Freezing proved lethal to summer animals. Inoculative freezing points of live specimens remained steady at approximately −1°C throughout the year, as did the melting points of hemolymph. Although the supercooling points of the hemolymph stayed roughly constant at −7 to −9°C, those of live animals rose in winter and decreased in summer, suggesting the presence of nonhemolymph ice nucleators in winter. However, inoculative freezing was still essential for freeze tolerance. Centipedes did not accumulate carbohydrates or polyols in winter. Winter hemolymph showed marked recrystallization inhibition activity, indicating the presence of thermal hysteresis proteins, but summer hemolymph did not. However, only occasional individuals had measurable thermal hysteresis activity in winter, indicating that the hemolymph concentration of thermal hysteresis proteins is low. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A saturable-trap analysis of solute segregation applied to oxygen trapping in neutron-irradiated vanadium

Abstract The activation energy for the 0.2 T m resistivity annealing stage in neutron-irradiated vanadium containing 61 wt ppm oxygen was determined to be (1.21 ± 0.06) eV. This value is reasonably close to the oxygen diffusion activation energy in vanadium of 1.26–1.28 eV. Thus, an extrinsic mechanism for the 0.2 T m annealing stage is indicated, involving oxygen migration and trapping at radiation-produced defect clusters. A simple saturable trap model for the trapping of interstitial impurity atoms at radiation-produced defect clusters is described. The model is applied to the isothermal annealing curves for vanadium containing oxygen. A good fit to the shape of the annealing curves is obtained and approximate agreement to the measured activation energy is found. However, the model appears to overestimate the amount of oxygen participating in the trapping process.
Validation of an interactive approach for calculating ship boundary layers and wakes for nonzero froude number

Abstract An interactive approach for calculating ship boundary layers and wakes for nonzero Froude number is validated through detailed comparisons with recent extensive experimental data for the practical 3-D geometry of the Series 60 C B = 0.6 ship model at both low (0.16) and high (0.316) Froude number. The former case essentially simulates the zero Froude number condition such that the comparisons with the latter case enables the identification of the salient features of the wave-induced effects. Close agreement is demonstrated between the calculations and the data, which supports the conclusion that the present approach can accurately predict ship boundary layers and wakes, including free-surface effects; however, the present detailed comparisons enables a more critical evaluation. Additionally, comparisons are made with inviscid-flow results, which in combination enable an evaluation of the wave/boundary-layer and wake interaction. Lastly, some concluding remarks are made concerning the limitations of the present approach, prognosis and requirements for improvements, relative merits of interactive vs large-domain approaches, and implications with regard to ship design.
Fear and Loathing in the San Juan Islands: Endangered Orcas and the Legitimacy of Environmental Law:

Although a healthy environment is generally recognized as an important public good, environmental regulation often meets significant opposition. The legitimacy of environmental law is thus very much an uncertain political project, as is evident in many struggles over environmental protection. I use and extend literatures on legal consciousness, legal geographies, and environmental regulation to analyze a controversy that emerged over efforts to regulate vessels in the presence of endangered orca whales in the Pacific Northwest. I suggest that a significant component of the opposition to these regulations stemmed from a widespread distrust and fear of the federal government. This distrust and fear were sharply accentuated by the fact that the regulations were to be imposed on the space of the sea, an area commonly viewed as best left unregulated or as deeply unregulatable. Given the arguable need for robust state action to protect the environment, on the sea as well as on land, these ambient fears are sign...
Establishment of an International Type‐Slide Collection for the Ciliate Protozoa*

SYNOPSIS. An international collection center for type-specimens of protozoa belonging to the subphylum Ciliophora has been set up at the University of Illinois through the cooperation of the Museum of Natural History there. The writer will act as curator of slides deposited in this central collection. Syntypes are solicited from all protozoologists interested in ciliate taxonomy who may possess such specimens. In accordance with provisions of Article 72 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, all material received will be properly handled and indexed and regarded as “the property of science”; preparations will be made available on loan to qualified workers anywhere who need them temporarily for research purposes. Existence of such a type-slide collection should aid in alleviation of a growing number of vexatious problems in the systematics of the ciliate Protozoa at specific and generic levels.
Ethnicity in sexually transmitted infections and sexual behaviour research

Ethnicity has been a contentious issue in sexually transmitted infection and HIV research partly because it contributes to the mythology of beliefs that might add to discrimination and partly because it is an apparently potent marker of risk. A study by Kevin Fenton and colleagues in today’s Lancet is a welcome addition to the evidence and provides more light than heat. These investigators provide a comprehensive view of sexual behaviour across ethnic groups in Britain including solid information about differences in sexual behaviour. However sexual behaviour (the zero-order variable underlying the risk of sexually transmitted infection) might also be subject to other ethnocultural variables including religion gender and social class that are at present captured as ethnicity. (excerpt)
Treatment of infectious and latent syphilis

Abstract The current treatment of all stages and all forms of syphilis is by the administration of antibiotics. In this section, effective dosage schedules and suitable monitoring and follow-up procedures essential to the proper management of infectious and latent syphilis are outlined. Certain practical difficulties encountered in putting these procedures and programs into operation are also described.
Application of a generic evaluation methodology to assess four different chiller FDD methods (rp-1275)

A previous paper (Reddy 2007) suggested a generic approach for evaluating the performance of fault detection and diagnosis (FDD) methods and proposed general expressions normalized to an ideal FDD method. These expressions were then tailored to large chillers, and specific numerical values of several of the quantities appearing in these expressions were suggested based on discussions with a chiller manufacturer and service companies as well as analysis of chiller performance data from a laboratory chiller. This paper first describes four promising chiller FDD methods (two of which are modified versions of those proposed for rooftop units) and then illustrates their customization using steady-state chiller performance data gathered from a laboratory chiller as part of a previous research project. Subsequently, results of evaluating these four FDD methods in the framework of the generic assessment methodology are presented and their implications discussed. This paper illustrates the application of the FDD m...
Dynamic regulation of c‐Myc proto‐oncogene expression during lymphocyte development revealed by a GFP‐c‐Myc knock‐in mouse

c-Myc induces widely varying cellular effects, including cell proliferation and cell death. These different cellular effects are determined, in part, by c-Myc protein expression levels, which are regulated through several transcriptional and post-transcriptional pathways. c-Myc transcripts can be detected in cells at all stages of B and T lymphocyte development. However, little is known about c-Myc protein expression, and how it varies, in developing lymphocytes. Here mice have been generated in which the endogenous c-Myc locus has been modified (c-Myc(G)) so that it encodes a GFP-c-Myc fusion protein. c-Myc(G/G) mice are viable, appear normal and exhibit grossly normal lymphocyte development. Flow cytometric analyses revealed significant heterogeneity in c-Myc protein expression levels in developing c-Myc(G/G) B and T lymphocytes. GFP-c-Myc expression levels were highest in proliferating lymphocytes, suggesting that c-Myc up-regulation is important for promoting lymphocyte cell division, and demonstrating that GFP-c-Myc expression is a marker of proliferating lymphocytes in vivo.
Avoidance Behavior of Ruffe Exposed to Selected Formulations of Piscicides

Abstract Ruffe were introduced into Duluth Harbor, Minnesota in the early 1980s, probably by release of ballast water from sea-going freighters. Since then, it has become the most abundant species in the fish community. The sensitivity of ruffe to a number of piscicides has been demonstrated, however, the feasibility of using piscicides to control populations depends on whether ruffe can detect piscicides and move to untreated water. We used a two-choice preference testing system to evaluate avoidance or attraction reactions of ruffe during exposures to the lampricides TFM and bayluscide and the general fish toxicants rotenone and antimycin. We used a second testing system to evaluate the potential for benthic ruffe to move vertically in the water column to avoid piscicides dissolving from experimental bottom-release formulations of bayluscide and antimycin. Near-lethal concentrations of TFM and rotenone tended to repel ruffe. Antimycin and bayluscide did not seem to repel ruffe in the avoidance chamber, but bottom-release formulations (antimycin granules—0.25% a.i. and bayluscide granules—3.2% a.i.) did cause increased swimming and surfacing activity among ruffe in column tests. We conclude that TFM and rotenone could be used to treat entire bodies of water, while bottom-release formulations of antimycin and bayluscide may have more application for treating localized concentrations of ruffe.
A turbid plaque-forming mutant of phage P1 that cannot lysogenize Escherichia coli

Abstract The isolation and characterization of a new P1 mutant, called P1lyg, is described. P1lyg phage form turbid plaques, but are defective in ability to lysogenize Escherichia coli. The lyg− allele cannot be rescued from a P1 cryptic lysogen, and data from three point crosses show that lyg maps near vir and c4. A lyg mutant does not prevent a lyg+ phage in the same cell from lysogenizing, but a lyg mutant cannot exist alone as a stable prophage even after mixed infection with lyg+.
An in-silico study of solvent effects on the Kolbe–Schmitt reaction using a DFT method

It has been known empirically that some solvents facilitate homogeneity in the reaction mixture and potentially improve the reaction rate of the Kolbe–Schmitt reaction. The focus of this study is to reconcile the empirical observation with an in-silico study of the Kolbe–Schmitt reaction mechanism using density functional methods (B3LYP) and to investigate solvent effects on this reaction. The candidate solvents were designed using group-contribution based computer aided molecular design (CAMD) and tested using density functional methods for solvation calculations.
A blue-green emitting organic-inorganic hybrid nanocomposite

Nanocomposites of CdS quantum dots (QDs) encapsulated in poly(propyleneimine) dendrimer with 1,4-diaminobutane (DAB) core have been synthesized. The QDs are estimated to have an approximately 3-nm diameter and fluoresce in the 380-620 nm spectral range. The fluorescence lifetime has a 165 ps fast component, and a 40 ns slow component.
Measuring portfolio efficiency: a critique

The concept of mean variance efficiency widely used in portfolio theory of modern finance is examined here in terms of (a) its limitations in statistical and empirical applications and (b) the alternative non-parametric measures. The non-parametric measures and tests of portfolio efficiency raise some of the most fundamental issues of modern financial economics today and these are shown to have valuable implications for the theory of capital market efficiency.
Aerodynamic sensitivity coefficients using the three-dimensional full potential equation

The quasianalytical (QA) approach is applied to the three-dimensional full potential equation to compute wing aerodynamic sensitivity coefficients in the transonic regime. Symbolic manipulation is used and is crucial in reducing the effort associated with obtaining sensitivity equations, and the large sensitivity system is solved using sparse solver routines such as the iterative conjugate gradient method. The results obtained are almost identical to those obtained by the finite difference (FD) approach and indicate that obtaining the sensitivity derivatives using the QA approach is more efficient than computing the derivatives by the FD method, especially as the number of design variables increases. It is concluded that the QA method is an efficient and accurate approach for obtaining transonic aerodynamic sensitivity coefficients in three dimensions.
Reduction of X-Radiation Mortality by Cabbage and Broccoli.

SummaryExposure to 400 r of whole-body X-radiation resulted in 100% mortality in 10 to 15 days of young male guinea pigs fed a basal diet of bran and oats plus ascorbic acid. Supplementation with cabbage or broccoli for 2 weeks before irradiation and during 30 days after irradiation significantly reduced mortalty. Lyophilized cabbage retained ability to reduce radiation mortality. Pre-feeding of guinea pigs to time of radiation exposure, signficantly delayed onset of death and enabled some animals to survive test period. Post-irradiation supplementation with cabbage also yielded a lower total mortality. Feeding of cabbage both before and after radiation exposure produced greatest amount of protection.
Photolithographically patterned silver nanowire electrodeposition

Abstract We report the fabrication of silver nanowires using lithographically patterned nanowire electrodeposition (LPNE). The LPNE synthesis of silver nanowires proceeds by lithographically patterning, and then etching an evaporated nickel film to produce a nickel nanoband 20–80 nm in height. This nanoband, which traces the perimeter of the exposed region, is recessed by ≈500 nm into the photoresist producing a horizontal trench. A silver nanowire, of controlled height and width, is formed within this trench by electrodepositing silver from either of two aqueous solutions at the nickel nanoband. Silver nanowires with controlled widths ranging from 100 to 400 nm were obtained and the height of silver nanowires was independently controllable over the range from 20 to 80 nm. The LPNE process is wafer-scale and continuous silver nanowires millimeters in length are readily obtained. Data for the characterization of these nanowires using AFM, TEM, and XRD is presented.
Prolonged paralysis due to nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents and corticosteroids.

The long-term use of nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents (ND-NMBA) has recently been implicated as a cause of prolonged muscle weakness, although the site of the lesion and the predisposing factors have been unclear. We report 3 patients (age 37–52 years) with acute respiratory insufficiency who developed prolonged weakness following the discontinuation of ND-NMBAs. Two patients also received intravenous corticosteroids. Renal function was normal but hepatic function was impaired in all patients, and all had acidosis. Electrophysiologic studies revealed low amplitude compound motor action potentials, normal sensory studies, and fibrillations. Repetitive stimulation at 2 Hz showed a decremental response in 2 patients. The serum vecuronium level measured in 1 patient 14 days after the drug had been discontinued was 172 ng/mL. A muscle biopsy in this patient showed loss of thick, myosin filaments. The weakness in these patients is due to pathology at both the neuromuscular junction (most likely due to ND-NMBA) and muscle (most likely due to corticosteroids). Hepatic dysfunction and acidosis are contributing risk factors. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Efficiency of markets for heterogeneous, indivisible housing

Abstract A rental housing market with a finite number of traders is presented. Tenants trade money to landlords for the use of an indivisible, heterogeneous house. Equilibrium is defined as the outcome of a competitive bidding arrangement among agents, the bid rent approach. Using this bidding arrangement, the two fundamental welfare theorems are shown to apply to this market. The second welfare theorem is verified via an algorithm which constructs equilibrium prices for Pareto-efficient allocations.
Cancer metabolism, stemness and tumor recurrence: MCT1 and MCT4 are functional biomarkers of metabolic symbiosis in head and neck cancer

Here, we interrogated head and neck cancer (HNSCC) specimens (n = 12) to examine if different metabolic compartments (oxidative vs. glycolytic) co-exist in human tumors. A large panel of well-established biomarkers was employed to determine the metabolic state of proliferative cancer cells. Interestingly, cell proliferation in cancer cells, as marked by Ki-67 immunostaining, was strictly correlated with oxidative mitochondrial metabolism (OXPHOS) and the uptake of mitochondrial fuels, as detected via MCT1 expression (p < 0.001). More specifically, three metabolic tumor compartments were delineated: (1) proliferative and mitochondrial-rich cancer cells (Ki-67+/TOMM20+/COX+/MCT1+); (2) non-proliferative and mitochondrial-poor cancer cells (Ki-67-/TOMM20-/COX-/MCT1-); and (3) non-proliferative and mitochondrial-poor stromal cells (Ki-67-/TOMM20-/COX-/MCT1-). In addition, high oxidative stress (MCT4+) was very specific for cancer tissues. Thus, we next evaluated the prognostic value of MCT4 in a second independent patient cohort (n = 40). Most importantly, oxidative stress (MCT4+) in non-proliferating epithelial cancer cells predicted poor clinical outcome (tumor recurrence; p < 0.0001; log-rank test), and was functionally associated with FDG-PET avidity (p < 0.04). Similarly, oxidative stress (MCT4+) in tumor stromal cells was specifically associated with higher tumor stage (p < 0.03), and was a highly specific marker for cancer-associated fibroblasts (p < 0.001). We propose that oxidative stress is a key hallmark of tumor tissues that drives high-energy metabolism in adjacent proliferating mitochondrial-rich cancer cells, via the paracrine transfer of mitochondrial fuels (such as L-lactate and ketone bodies). New antioxidants and MCT4 inhibitors should be developed to metabolically target "three-compartment tumor metabolism" in head and neck cancers. It is remarkable that two "non-proliferating" populations of cells (Ki-67-/MCT4+) within the tumor can actually determine clinical outcome, likely by providing high-energy mitochondrial "fuels" for proliferative cancer cells to burn. Finally, we also show that in normal mucosal tissue, the basal epithelial "stem cell" layer is hyper-proliferative (Ki-67+), mitochondrial-rich (TOMM20+/COX+) and is metabolically programmed to use mitochondrial fuels (MCT1+), such as ketone bodies and L-lactate. Thus, oxidative mitochondrial metabolism (OXPHOS) is a common feature of both (1) normal stem cells and (2) proliferating cancer cells. As such, we should consider metabolically treating cancer patients with mitochondrial inhibitors (such as Metformin), and/or with a combination of MCT1 and MCT4 inhibitors, to target "metabolic symbiosis."
An analysis of quasi-frequency-modulated noise and random-sideband noise as comparisons for amplitude-modulated noise

Experiments were performed to determine under what conditions quasi-frequency-modulated (QFM) noise and random-sideband noise are suitable comparisons for AM noise in measuring a temporal modulation transfer function (TMTF). Thresholds were measured for discrimination of QFM from random-sideband noise and AM from QFM noise as a function of sideband separation. In the first experiment, the upper spectral edge of the noise stimuli was at 2400 Hz and the bandwidth was 1600 Hz. For sideband separations up to 256 Hz, at threshold sideband levels for discriminating AM from QFM noise, QFM was indiscriminable from random-sideband noise. For the largest sideband separation used (512 Hz), listeners may have used within-stimulus envelope correlation in the QFM noise to discriminate it from the random-sideband noise. Results when stimulus bandwidth was varied suggest that listeners were able to use this cue when the carrier was wider than a critical band, and the sideband separation approached the carrier bandwidth. Within-stimulus envelope correlation was also present in AM noise, and thus QFM noise was a suitable comparison because it made this cue unusable and forced listeners to use across-stimulus envelope differences. When the carrier bandwidth was less than a critical band or was wideband, QFM noise and random-sideband noise were equally suitable comparisons for AM noise. When discrimination thresholds for QFM and random-sideband noise were converted to modulation depth and modulation frequency, they were nearly identical to those for discrimination of AM from QFM noise, suggesting that listeners were using amplitude modulation cues in both cases.
Genetic predisposition to breast cancer.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women. Because metastatic breast cancer is an incurable disease, efforts to decrease breast cancer mortality have focused on early detection and improved treatment. Identification and analysis of a specific genetic susceptibility could permit detection of susceptible women and greatly increase the understanding of the initial step that eventually leads to cancer. Because susceptibility loci have been recognized as sites that often are altered during tumor progression, the identification and cloning of such loci could be important in developing cancer therapies. In this article, the progress being made in segregation analysis, linkage analysis, and cloning of breast cancer susceptibility loci is reviewed
Thermodynamic parameters of coupled chemical reactions from temperature jump relaxation amplitudes

Equations describing the temperature jump amplitudes associated with a system of two coupled reactions (TRIS-phenol red) as well as the ternary system (Mg2+-iminodiacetic acid-phenol red) are presented. The termodynamic parameters calculated from experimentally measured temperature perturbation amplitudes using a multiparametric curve fitting procedure are found to be in good agreement with those determined from pH- and costant rate thermometric titrations. For phenol red, pKI=7.55, ΔHI=3.45 kcal, and for Mg2+ iminodiacetic acid, log KM=2.84, ΔHM=3.25 kcal, were obtained. It is shown that this method can be used to determine accurate thermodynamic enthalpy changes over a narrow temperature interval of less than 1.0°C from a single experiment requiring about 50 μl of sample solution.
Role of the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor in Signaling Strain-dependent Activation of the Brain Natriuretic Peptide Gene

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and ectoshedding of heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HBEGF), an EGFR ligand, have been linked to the development of cardiac myocyte hypertrophy. However, the precise role that the liganded EGFR plays in the transcriptional activation of the gene program that accompanies hypertrophy remains undefined. Utilizing the human (h) BNP gene as a model of hypertrophy-dependent gene activation, we show that activation of the EGFR plays an important role in mediating mechanical strain-dependent stimulation of the hBNP promoter. Strain promotes endothelin (ET) generation through NAD(P)H oxidase-dependent production of reactive oxygen species. ET in turn induces metalloproteinase-mediated cleavage of pro-HBEGF and ectoshedding of HBEGF, which activates the EGFR and stimulates hBNP promoter activity. HBEGF also stimulates other phenotypic markers of hypertrophy including protein synthesis and sarcomeric assembly. The antioxidant N-acetylcysteine or the NAD(P)H oxidase inhibitor, apocynin, inhibited strain-dependent activation of the ET-1 promoter, HBEGF shedding, and hBNP promoter activation. The metalloproteinase inhibitor, GM-6001, prevented the induction of HBEGF ectoshedding and the hBNP promoter response to strain, suggesting a critical role for the metalloproteinase-dependent cleavage event in signaling the strain response. These findings suggest that metalloproteinase activity as an essential step in this pathway may prove to be a relevant therapeutic target in the management of cardiac hypertrophy.
Design Of A Laboratory Study Of Contaminant Film Darkening In Space

One of the most deleterious effects of spacecraft contaminant films is that they increase the solar absorptance of optics, such as silvered fused silica thermal control mirrors or solar cell cover slips. However, this effect cannot currently be predicted with precision. Here we discuss the design of a laboratory program to enhance the quantitative understanding of this effect, as determined by the composition of the contaminant film and subsequent simulated environmental radiation-induced darkening. This effort includes four major elements: the quantitative identification of the classes of organic materials likely to be precursors of photochemically deposited contaminant films; prediction of these materials' sensitivities to energetic irradiation in the space environment; measurement of rates of deposition and optical absorption spectra of photochemically deposited films on fused silica; and measurements of further film darkening by irradiation with electrons, vacuum ultraviolet light, and ions. Each of these elements is discussed. A set of organic materials that have been chosen as analogs for major classes of spacecraft contaminants is presented, including the rationale for their selection and a prioritization of their potential importance. Apparatus design and performance and early experimental results are also described.
Cardiovascular disease: Much more aggressive in patients with type 2 diabetes

It is estimated that 80% of individuals with type 2 diabetes die of coronary heart disease. Several factors have been found to contribute to the accelerated atherosclerosis present in diabetic patients. These include hyperglycemia-induced endothelial cell dysfunction, impaired fibrinolysis, increased platelet aggregation, and dysfunctional arterial remodeling. The evidence supports that a healthy lifestyle, statin drugs, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and aspirin can modify these factors and slow the atherosclerosis process observed in type 2 diabetes. Because of the high prevalence of cardiovascular disease in people with type 2 diabetes, early cardiac testing is indicated. The optimal strategy for coronary revascularization in diabetic patients remains controversial and is discussed in detail in this review.
Studies on the radiation-induced dissociation and reassociation of polysomes in Tetrahymena pyriformis

Abstract (1) A new high yield method for the isolation of polysomes from the ciliated protozoan Tetrahymena pyriformis employs the antibiotic cycloheximide, rapid chilling of the cells, and lysis in the nonionic detergent NP-40. (2) Following dissociation by sublethal doses of γ-radiation, the polysomes recover in a biphasic manner. The first, more rapid phase is complete in 15 min; the second, slower phase, requires an additional 90–120 min. These data suggest that two types of recovery occur. (3) When cycloheximide is present during the irradiation the drug prevents the radiation-induced dissociation of polysomes but does not induce a reaggregation of ribosomes previously dissociated by radiation. (4) Radiation blocks the recovery of polysomes from puromycin-induced dissociation but only during the period of exposure to the radiation. (5) Radiation blocks nearly all amino acid incorporation during the exposure period while 60% of the polysomes still remain intact. We can conclude that while radiation may interfere with initiation of protein synthesis, this cannot be the sole action of radiation on protein synthesis. A further effect on the systematic elongation and termination of polypeptide chains is proposed.
Comment on ‘Plasma current spikes due to internal reconnection during tokamak disruptions’

In tokamak disruptions, a brief increase in the total plasma current—an Ip spike—frequently precedes the current quench. The Ip spike is commonly attributed to an internal reconnection event that lowers the internal inductance. Plasma current spikes seen in four fixed-boundary MHD disruption simulations support this explanation and are discussed in terms of the evolution of poloidal flux and poloidal magnetic energy.
Male–female differences in fertility and blood pressure in ACE-deficient mice

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) is a dipeptidyl carboxy-peptidase that generates the vasoconstricting peptide angiotensin II and inactivates the vasodilating peptide bradykinin. The gene encoding ACE is composed of two homologous regions and codes for both a somatic and testis isoenzyme. Experiments with hypertensive rats and some, but not other, studies of humans suggest that sequences at or linked to the gene influence blood pressure. The testis-specific form of ACE has its own promoter within intron 12 (ref. 14), is encoded by the 3' region of the gene, and is found only in postmeiotic spermatogenic cells and sperm. Its function is unknown. Here we investigate the role of the Ace gene in blood pressure control and reproduction using mice generated to carry an insertional mutation that is designed to inactivate both forms of ACE. All homozygous female mutants were found to be fertile, but the fertility of homozygous male mutants was greatly reduced. Heterozygous males but not females had blood pressures that were 15-20 mm Hg less than normal, although both male and female heterozygotes had reduced serum ACE activity.
Preserving refractories containing free calcium oxide

A method was developed for preserving refractories containing free calcium oxide, enabling us to store freshly pressed articles without altering their basic properties for 25–30 days. In this case the maximum storage period of the heat-treated goods is not less than 3 months.
Time-Related Changes in Yield and Harms of Screening Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Abstract Purpose Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is accepted as a useful adjunct to screening mammography for women at high risk for breast cancer. Nevertheless, concerns about false-positive findings remain, and data about MRI harms and yields are limited. The aim of this study was to quantify harms and yields of breast MRI over time in a large series of patients. Methods A retrospective review was performed of patients at increased risk for breast cancer who underwent annual screening digital mammography and MRI from 2007 to 2013. Harms were defined as events not producing a breast cancer diagnosis (ultrasonography [US], imaging-guided core or surgical biopsy procedure, recommendation for short-term follow-up, or a combination). Results Of 350 high-risk patients offered MRI screening, 320 underwent 757 screening MRI procedures over time. The median age at the first MRI was 48 years. All patients met American Cancer Society criteria for annual screening breast MRI. Total harms were highest with the first MRI procedure and decreased with subsequent MRI screening. Of 75 biopsy procedures performed, including 58 US- or MRI-guided core biopsy procedures and 17 surgical biopsy procedures, 6 specimens were found to be malignant, including 2 resulting from biopsy procedures performed based on findings from the first MRI scan, 0 from the second MRI scan, 3 from the third MRI scan, and 1 from the fourth MRI scan. Conclusion Among women followed with screening MRI, the number of harms was shown to decrease over time. Breast cancer continued to be detected in MRI studies performed over time. This study demonstrates the utility of MRI screening performed over time in high-risk women.
A thermodynamic analysis of electron production during syngas fermentation.

Currently, syngas fermentation is being developed as one option towards the production of biofuels from biomass. This process utilizes the acetyl-CoA (Wood–Ljungdahl) metabolic pathway. Along the pathway, CO and CO2 are used as carbon sources. Electrons required for the metabolic process are generated from H2 and/or from CO. This study showed that electron production from CO is always more thermodynamically favorable compared to electron production from H2 and this finding is independent of pH, ionic strength, gas partial pressure, and electron carrier pairs. Additionally, electron production from H2 may be thermodynamically unfavorable in some experimental conditions. Thus, it is unlikely that H2 can be utilized for electron production in favor of CO when both species are present. Therefore, CO conversion efficiency will be sacrificed during syngas fermentation since some of the CO will provide electrons at the expense of product and cell mass formation.
Hemorrhagic Stroke in Children

Hemorrhagic stroke accounts for approximately half of stroke in childhood. Unlike arterial ischemic stroke, there are no consensus guidelines to assist in the evaluation and treatment of these children. This article reviews the literature on the evaluation, treatment, etiology, and neurologic outcome of hemorrhagic stroke in children. Important differences between pediatric and adult hemorrhage are highlighted, as treatment guidelines for adults may not be applicable in all cases. Required future research and potential therapies are also discussed.
Experimental method for obtaining critical densities of binary mixtures: application to ethane + n-butane

Abstract Van Poolen L.J., Niesen V.G. and Rainwater J.C., 1991. Experimental method for obtaining critical densities of binary mixtures: application to ethane + n-butane. Fluid Phase Equilibria , 66: 161-185. According to the experimental and analytical procedure proposed by Van Poolen and Rainwater, rectilinear diameters based on measured vapor-liquid coexistence densities along a path of constant overall density and composition have been determined and used to obtain critical densities of the binary mixture ethane+ n -butane. Seven experimental runs for the mixture were made at compositions ranging from, 21.65 to 80.75 mol% ethane. The procedure has been explored as a new way to determine critical densities of mixtures. Results are compared with densities generated from a modified Leung-Griffiths correlation of the extensive vapor-liquid equilibrium data of Kay. The critical densities obtained are in agreement with the correlation within the overall uncertainty of the method, thereby verifying the proposed technique.
Thermodynamics, Orientational Order and Elasticity of Strained Liquid Crystalline Melts and Elastomers†

A microscopic polymer liquid-state theory has been developed for the structure, thermodynamics and mechanical properties of strained liquid crystalline elastomers. The theory captures the experimentally observed phenomenon of spontaneous distortion and establishes a direct correlation between it and the nematic order parameter. Strain induced softening of the elastic modulus is predicted to emerge due to coupling of the induced orientational order and anisotropic interchain excluded volume interactions. Comparison of our results with limited experiments shows good qualitative and sometimes quantitative agreement. The theory predicts that deformation in the liquid crystalline state results in an increase of the amplitude of density fluctuations (compressibility) which becomes more pronounced as chain degree of polymerization and/or segmental density are decreased.
Does prestroke depression impact poststroke depression and treatment

Objectives: To 1) describe the prevalence of before the stroke depression (BSD) and poststroke depression (PSD) and 2) serotonin selective reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatment patterns. Design: Naturalistic, retrospective cohort design. Setting: Veterans Healthcare System. Participants: Seven hundred ninety veterans with confirmed stroke during fiscal year 2001. Measurements: Diagnosis of depression and dispensing for antidepressants before and after stroke. Results: A depression diagnosis was noted for nearly 10% (N = 74) of veterans before their stroke and nearly 26% afterward (N = 205). Among those with a BSD diagnosis, 75.7% received a PSD diagnosis after their stroke. Only 20.9% of the veterans without a BSD diagnosis received a PSD diagnosis afterward (odds ratio [OR] = 9.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 5.4–16.5). Nearly 32% were dispensed a SSRI. Veterans receiving an SSRI before their stroke were more likely to receive one afterward (OR = 31.9, 95% CI: 17.4–58.4). Nearly 48% of those with a BSD diagnosis were dispensed an SSRI ≤30 days if they had a PSD diagnosis ≤30 days, but 48% without a PSD diagnosis were still dispensed an SSRI ≤30 days if they had a BSD diagnosis. Conversely, among those without a BSD diagnosis, 39.4% were dispensed an SSRI ≤30 days if they had a PSD diagnosis but only 7.2% without a PSD diagnosis in ≤30 days with no BSD diagnosis. Conclusion: Patients' depression status before the stroke is a significant predictor of PSD and providers' SSRI prescribing behavior but not age. Given the deleterious effects of PSD, physicians may be tending toward prophylaxis or early treatment even before the evidence to support such treatment leads to standard practice recommendations.
Thermosensitive aqueous gels with tunable sol-gel transition temperatures from thermo- and pH-responsive hydrophilic ABA triblock copolymer.

This article reports on the synthesis of a well-defined hydrophilic ABA triblock copolymer composed of a poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) middle block and thermo- and pH-sensitive outer blocks and the study of sol−gel transitions of its aqueous solutions at various pH values. The doubly responsive linear triblock copolymer, poly(methoxydi(ethylene glycol) methacrylate-co-methacrylic acid)-b-PEO-b-poly(methoxydi(ethylene glycol) methacrylate-co-methacrylic acid) (P(DEGMMA-co-MAA)-b-PEO-b-P(DEGMMA-co-MAA)), was prepared by atom transfer radical polymerization of a mixture of DEGMMA and tert-butyl methacrylate with a molar ratio of 100: 5 from a difunctional PEO macroinitiator and subsequent removal of tert-butyl groups using trifluoroacetic acid. Dynamic light scattering studies showed that the critical micellization temperature (CMT) of this ABA triblock copolymer in a 0.2 wt % aqueous solution was dependent on the solution pH and can be varied in a large temperature range (>20 °C). To study the sol−gel transiti...
Room temperature magnetoelectric multiferroism through cation ordering in complex perovskite solid solutions

A strategy for developing ferrimagnetism through B-site cation ordering in thermodynamically stable ferroelectric complex perovskites is described, with the aim of realizing both a spontaneous polarization and magnetization at room temperature. Specifically, solid solutions of the complex perovskites Pb(Fe2/3W1/3)O3 ,S r (Fe2/3W1/3)O3 ,a nd Ba (Fe2/3W1/3)O3 with BiFeO3 are considered. Preliminary data on the 0.75Pb(Fe2/3W1/3)O3–0.25BiFeO3 ceramic show promising results.