cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Tc 99m-tilmanocept and filtered Tc 99m-sulfur colloid for breast lymphatic mapping

2522 Objectives Intraoperative lymphatic mapping together with lymphoscintigraphy has become the cancer diagnostic evaluation procedure of choice for surgeons. Until recently Tc 99m-sulfur colloid (SC) has been the only radiopharmaceutical used for lymphoscintigraphy. A new imaging agent, Tc 99m-tilmanocept (Lymphoseek, Navidea Biopharmaceuticals), is recently FDA approved. The purpose of this study is to compare the ability of Lymphoseek and filtered SC for detection of sentinel lymph nodes in patients with breast cancer. Methods This is a retrospective analysis of 32 patients consisting of two groups of 16 patients each. One group received Lymphoseek and the second group received filtered SC. The dosage was 3mCi diluted to 4.5 ml with normal saline combined with 40mg of lidocaine in three aliquots injected into the retroareolar breast region in the afternoon prior to the day of surgery. Dynamic planar imaging of the injection sites was performed for 20 minutes post-injection, followed by planar scinigraphy of the chest. Clearance rates were determined from decay-corrected time-activity curves of the injection sites. The surgical and histopathologic results were compared for the two radiopharmaceuticals. Results At 20 minutes post-injection, the injection site clearance of Lymphoseek was greater than SC. Lymphoseek cleared 5.3 +/- 2.3%, compared to SC which cleared 2.6 +/- 2.2% (P Conclusions Although the clearance rate of Lymphoseek was faster than SC, there was no significant difference in the two radiopharmaceuticals for the detection of radioactive sentinel lymph nodes in breast lymphatic mapping procedures.
SNP Set Association Analysis for Familial Data

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) are a popular approach for identifying common genetic variants and epistatic effects associated with a disease phenotype. The traditional statistical analysis of such GWAS attempts to assess the association between each individual single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and the observed phenotype. Recently, kernel machine-based tests for association between a SNP set (e.g., SNPs in a gene) and the disease phenotype have been proposed as a useful alternative to the traditional individual-SNP approach, and allow for flexible modeling of the potentially complicated joint SNP effects in a SNP set while adjusting for covariates. We extend the kernel machine framework to accommodate related subjects from multiple independent families, and provide a score-based variance component test for assessing the association of a given SNP set with a continuous phenotype, while adjusting for additional covariates and accounting for within-family correlation. We illustrate the proposed method using simulation studies and an application to genetic data from the Genetic Epidemiology Network of Arteriopathy (GENOA) study.
Self-organizing hierarchical knowledge discovery by an ARTMAP information fusion system

Classifying terrain or objects may require the resolution of conflicting information from sensors working at different times, locations, and scales, and from users with different goals and situations. Current fusion methods can help resolve such inconsistencies, as when evidence variously suggests that an object is a car, a truck, or an airplane. The methods described here define a complementary approach to the information fusion problem, considering the case where sensors and sources are both nominally inconsistent and reliable, as when evidence suggests that an object is a car, a vehicle, and man-made. Underlying relationships among classes are assumed to be unknown to the automated system or the human user. The ARTMAP self-organizing rule discovery procedure is illustrated with an image example, but is not limited to the image domain.
Toward medical management decision support systems

A computer conferencing system for source recording of all transactions in medical management of a patient is suggested. Its use for overcoming some weaknesses of current practice is illustrated on an actual case. We submit that for such a medical management decision support system to work, its 'thought units' should correspond to those of its users, possibly degrees of mllmbership rather than probabilities.
A Function with Locally Uncountable Rotation Set

The rotation set, Γ, of a Lebesgue measurable real valued function on the circle is the set of α e R for which \(\tfrac{1}{{n + 1}}\sum _{k = 0}^n f(x + k\alpha )\) converges as n → ∞ for almost every x. Z. L. Buczolich has constructed a non-integrable function whose rotation set contains at least countably many irrational rotations. In this paper we construct a function whose rotation set has uncountable intersection with each non-empty open subset of R.
ASSESSMENT OF GENETIC DIVERSITY IN WILD AND AQUACULTURE STOCKS OF MERCENARIA MERCENARIA IN FLORIDA

The northern hard clam Mercenaria mercenaria is one of the most commercially important bivalve species produced via aquaculture in the eastern United States. Breeding practices associated with large-scale hatchery production of hard clamseedmayresultinunintended,potentiallynegativeconsequencesincludinginbreedingandreducedlevelsofgeneticdiversity. Seven microsatellite markers were used to compare levels of genetic diversity in six hatchery stocks and four wild stocks from the state of Florida. Wild stocks of M. mercenaria had slightly higher levels of allelic richness and similar observed heterozygosity (wild ¼Ar ¼3.61,Ho ¼0.448;hatchery ¼Ar ¼3.46,Ho ¼0.452);however,thesedifferenceswerenotstatisticallysignificant(Ar:P ¼ 0.145; Ho: P ¼ 0.931). Differentiation was highest between hatchery stocks (GST ¼ 0.03, SD ¼ 0.007; P < 0.001) but minimal among hatchery-by-wild comparisons. In contrast, wild stocks were not differentiated (GST ¼ -0.002, SD ¼ 0.004; P � 0.58) and Bayesian comparisons of competing gene flow models (panmixia, stepping stone, and full-migration) suggested that wild stocks were effectively panmictic at this scale. Together, these results indicate that some genetic drift has occurred within hatchery populations, possibly as a result of broodstock selection and spawning practices. The genetic divergence between wild and hatchery stocks observed in this study are not as pronounced as seen in other aquaculture bivalve species. Given the large scale of hard clam production in Florida we argue that hatchery practices should incorporate long-term genetic goals (i.e., avoidance of inbreeding) to maintain the integrity of hatchery stocks. A secondary objective of this study was to amplify a congeneric species, Mercenaria campechiensis, using the same suite of microsatellite markers to assess their utility for detecting interspecific hybridization. Amplification success was poor and failed for four of the seven loci. The identification of microsatellite loci for different species of Mercenaria should be identified de novo in the future.
A comparison of EMLA cream versus nitrous oxide for pediatric venous cannulation

Abstract Study Objective: To compare the analgesic and anxiolytic effects of nitrous oxide (N 2 O) when inhaled by face mask with those of a cutaneous application of a eutectic mixture of local anesthetics (EMLA) cream with lidocaine and prilocaine during preoperative venous cannulation in children. Design: Prospective, randomized study. Setting: Outpatient presurgical area and operating rooms of a freestanding children's hospital. Patients: 50 unpremedicated ASA status I and II outpatients, aged 6 to 12 years, undergoing an elective surgical procedure. Interventions: Each patient received either 70% N 2 O in 30% oxygen (O 2 ) administered by face mask for 120 seconds or an application of 2.5 g of EMLA cream under an occlusive dressing for a minimum of 60 minutes. All patients then underwent a single attempt at venous cannulation in the dorsum of the hand with a 22-gauge intravenous catheter. Measurements and Main Results: A visual analog scale (VAS) pain score (0 to 100) was generated by the investigator and subsequently obtained from each patient immediately after the venous cannulation was completed. The pain scores generated by the investigator were significantly lower in the N 2 O group than the EMLA cream group ( p = 0.001). When compared with the patients in the EMLA cream group, the patients in the N 2 O group also self-reported significantly lower VAS pain scores ( p = 0.006). Conclusions: N 2 O administered by face mask appears to provide greater anxiolysis and attendant superior analgesia for pediatric venous cannulation than a cutaneous application of EMLA cream.
Effects of toxin from Helminthosporium maydis T on respiration and associated activities in maize tissue

Abstract Earlier work proved that toxin from Helminthosporium maydis race T uncouples oxidative phosphorylation by mitochondria isolated from susceptible but not from resistant plants. However, an effect on the mitochondrial site in vivo was never demonstrated. In our experiments, toxin-treated leaves and coleoptiles from susceptible plants had 20 to 60% greater oxygen uptake than did control tissues; resistant tissues were not affected. Toxin inhibited glycolysis in susceptible tissue; the inhibition was slow to develop and was not alleviated by intermediates of the glycolytic pathway. In contrast, 2,4-dinitrophenol (50 μm) stimulated glycolysis. Toxin did not affect glycolysis in resistant tissue and in cell-free preparations from susceptible or resistant plants; thus, the effect on glycolysis in vivo appears to be secondary or indirect. Levels of acid-labile organic phosphates were decreased in susceptible but not in resistant tissues after exposure to toxin for 1 h. Toxin did not affect phosphatase activities associated with microsomal fractions and with cell walls. These data, plus data from other sources, support the hypothesis that toxin affects a mitochondrial site in intact tissue; indeed, the mitochondrial site may be the only important site for direct action of the toxin.
CONTINUOUS ESTIMATION OF STROKE VOLUME WITH MEAN PULSE PRESSURE. 302

If the area of pressure waveform created by stroke volume is measured instantaneously, it will be possible to monitor cardiac stroke volume Beat-by-beat continuously. Mean arterial pressure is calculated from pulse pressure tracing by calculating the area of the waveform and dividing it by the length of the base; the height of the rectangle is the mean arterial pressure. Thus, the rectangle drawn by the difference between mean and diastolic arterial pressure which is defined here as “mean pulse pressure” is same as the area of pressure wave created by stroke volume.
One size does not fit all: current disposable laparoscopic devices do not fit the needs of female laparoscopic surgeons

Introduction An increasing number of women are entering the field of general surgery. Because surgical devices have traditionally been targeted at men, we hypothesized that, due to smaller hand size, female general surgery residents would have significantly more difficulty utilizing the ‘‘one size fits all’’ handles of disposable laparoscopic (lap) devices when compared with male residents. Methods General surgery residents were anonymously surveyed at four university general surgery training programs. Participants were asked to describe their use of four disposable lap instruments: the lap stapler, lap Harmonic scalpel (Ethicon, Inc., Somerville, New Jersey), lap LigaSure TM (Valleylab, Boulder, Colorado), and lap retrieval bag. Data were tabulated and analyzed, comparing male with female residents for each instrument as well as according to glove size. Results A total of 120 residents were asked to participate with 65 anonymous responses (28 women and 37 men). Women’s median glove size was significantly smaller than men’s (6.5 vs. 7.5, p \ 0.0001), whereas the clinical year and number of lap cases were not significantly different. Women reported the following devices more awkward than their male counterparts: lap stapler, lap Harmonic scalpel, and the lap LigaSure TM . Women were more likely to use two hands and describe these devices as ‘‘always awkward.’’ When results were analyzed by glove size independently of gender we found that, with increasing glove size, residents were more likely to describe these devices as easy to use and used these devices with only one hand. Conclusions Current disposable lap devices are not designed for individuals with small hands. Women have significantly smaller hands than their male counterparts and have difficulty with the ‘‘one size fits all’’ lap device handles. With the increasing number of women entering general surgery programs, this problem will likely persist until devices are designed for surgeons with small hand sizes.
Potential intermediate in CH4-assisted reduction of nitric oxide: the reactions of methyl nitrite on oxidized Mo(1 1 0)

Abstract The reactions of methyl nitrite (CH3ONO) on O-covered Mo(1 1 0) were studied in order to determine whether methyl nitrite is a possible intermediate in CH4-assisted reduction of NO. Methyl nitrite decomposes to NO and methoxy (CH3Oads) upon adsorption at low temperature. Most NO is evolved directly into the gas phase at 110 K, although a small fraction is trapped on the surface and is identified using infrared spectroscopy. Methoxy remains on the surface until ∼600 K, at which point it decomposes to gas phase • CH3 and adsorbed oxygen. Hence, the overall reaction is the reverse of the • CH 3 + NO reaction. However, no reduction products (N2 or N2O) are evolved. The absence of reduction may be due to the fact that all high coordination sites are occupied on the O-covered surface or to the low coverage of NO. These results are discussed in the context of • CH3-assisted NO reduction.
Toward a contextually-valid measure of social support among middle-aged and older African Americans in a southern urban community

A gap in the literature on social support among middle-aged and older African Americans and limitations in scales measuring social support among this group indicate a need for a new measure of social support that is sensitive to the cultural context in which this population lives. The literature indicates that social support is a multidimensional, fluid phenomenon, i.e., it has many dimensions and each dimension may have significance for individuals and communities at different periods in time and in different geographical locations. The specific goals of this research were to (1) identify the domains and dimensions of support among middle-aged and older African Americans, ages 38 to 65, that potentially moderate the effects of psychosocial factors on health outcomes; (2) use the research findings to construct a new, contextually valid scale that measures social support among this population in a southern urban community; and (3) document the methodological process by which the first two goals were achieved. The iterative research process consisted of thirty-one methodological steps in nine phases over a four-year period. Six sets of data obtained from a content analysis of popular magazines, five types of interviews, a semi-structured questionnaire, a visual assessment of the community, and participant observation were analyzed for recurrent themes associated with social support. The findings were used to construct scale items that reflect culturally-relevant domains and dimensions of social support that are not typically assessed in traditional scales.
A generalization of finite dimensionality for modules

Abstract Let R be a ring with identity. Let C be a class of R -modules which is closed under submodules and isomorphic images. Define a submodule C of an R -module M to be a C -submodule of M if C ϵ C . An R -module M is said to be C -finite dimensional if it does not contain an infinite direct sum of non-zero C -submodules of M. Theorem : Let M be a C -finite dimensional R -module. Then there is a uniform bound (the C -dimension of M ) on the number of non-zero C -submodules in a direct sum of submodules of M . When C = M R , we recover the definition of dimension in the sense of Goldie. When C is the class of torsion-free modules relative to a kernel functor σ, we derive the formula: dim M = σ-dim M + dim (σ( M )) where for an R -module N , dim N is the dimension of N in the sense of Goldie and σ-dim N is the dimension of N relative to the class of σ-torsion- free modules. A special case gives a new interpretation of rank of a module as defined by Goldie.
A vertical slice of acoustic intensity and velocity [2-D images of waves and turbulence]

Phased Array Doppler Sonars (PADS) have been developed at Scripps over the past 20 years. These provide sector-scan images of radial velocity and acoustic intensity over ranges of 0.1 m (medical ultra sound) to 1.5 km (ocean surface wave measurement). Most recently we’ve deployed a 200 kHz PADS from the R/V Revelle during EquatorMix (October 2012, at 140W on the Equator). The pie-shaped measurement area was oriented to probe a vertical slice under the ship parallel to the direction of travel, so that moving averages along the plane can be formed. At the surface, our speed over ground was near 1 m/s, while near 120 m depth, the core of the Equatorial Undercurrent exceeded our speed by about 0.5 m/s; i.e., the undercurrent was moving at 1.5 m/s relative to the surface, which was nearly stationary in an Earth-referenced frame. The objective was to image descending shear-layers that often occur in the early morning before sunrise, along with any associated turbulence or internal waves. Averages can be formed moving with the flow as a function of depth, yielding focused images of acoustic backscatter strength, Doppler bandwidth, and both sine- and cosine- weighted velocity estimates. Where conditions are favorable, the last pair can be recombined to yield horizontal and vertical velocities in some detail.
Low Temperature, Rapid Thermal Cycle Annealing of HgCdTe Grown on CdTe/Si

The HgCdTe(MCT) grown on CdTe/Si substrate has a high dislocation density due to lattice mismatch. Thermal cycle annealing (TCA) is effective in reducing the dislocation density. The TCA at high temperatures results in inter-diffusion of the constituent elements across the MCT/CdTe interface. In␣this study, we observed a reduction in dislocation density with good surface morphology due to proper design of the TCA system, low annealing temperature, and large number of annealing cycles. The ampoule containing the samples is placed in direct contact with the graphite heating tube which helps in increasing the heating and cooling rates of the annealing cycle. To maintain Hg overpressure, Hg is placed in the sample holder, instead of in the ampoule to avoid Hg condensation. The best results were obtained by cycling the annealing temperature between 290°C and 350°C. Anneals were performed by using 32, 64, 128 and 256 cycles. We obtained an etch pit density (EPD) as low as 1 × 106 cm−2. Lower EPD was not achieved either by increasing annealing temperature or number of annealing cycles. Through secondary ion mass spectroscopy analysis, we observed very little inter-diffusion of Cd across the MCT/CdTe interface for the 128 cycle annealing. These results show promise in bridging the gap in the device performance between the MCT material grown on CdTe/Si and CdZnTe substrates.
A note on planar graphs

Abstract Some new properties of the distribution of elements and vertices with respect to the windows of a connected planar graph G are established. It is also shown that a window matrix of G has properties similar to the properties of an incidence matrix of a graph which is not necessarily planar. A method to form the inverse of a nonsingular submatrix of a window matrix directly from the graph is given.
Space-time super-resolution from multiple-videos

In this paper, a new method for reconstructing a video of higher spatial and temporal resolutions from multiple low-resolution video sequences is introduced. The proposed cost function includes a new space-time regularization term based upon Huber-Markov random field (HMRF) model which is convex but non-quadratic. However, this prior can be efficiently and accurately approximated by a quadratic form through an iterative process. This regularization form is a type of variational integral that exploits the piecewise smoothness nature of high-resolution images. We also address in detail the main reason for appearance of the so called “ghosting effect” in the temporal super-resolution reconstruction and explain how it can be resolved.
High resolution X-ray computed tomography studies of Grasberg porphyry Cu-Au ores, Papua, Indonesia

High-resolution X-ray computed tomography (HRXCT) provides unique information of the geological and metallurgical significance for gold and related ore minerals in the supergiant Grasberg porphyry Cu–Au deposit. Digital radiographs have proved to be an effective means of screening samples for the presence of gold for HRXCT studies. Digital radiograph effectiveness is limited by the thickness of samples (typically to ≤2 cm), as well as the associated minerals. Thus, preselecting samples for gold studies using HRXCT is most effective using digital radiographs combined with assay information. Differentiating between metallic mineral grains with relatively small differences in density, e.g., bornite (5.1 g/cm3) from chalcopyrite (4.2 g/cm3), is relatively straightforward for isolated monominerallic grains or composites in a similar lower-density matrix, but difficulties are encountered with the interpretation of typical intergrown ore minerals. X-ray beam-hardening artifacts lead to inconsistency in attenuation determination, both within and among slice images, complicating quantitative processing. However, differentiation of chalcopyrite and bornite has been successful in smaller-diameter (≤22-mm) cores of Grasberg ores. Small-diameter (≤10 mm) cores of the Grasberg stockwork Cu–Au ore were analyzed using HRXCT methods scanned at the minimum spacing currently available (7.5 μm), and data reduction protocols using the Blob3D program were modified to improve the quantification of grain sizes and shapes. Grains as small as 6.5 μm have been identified. All of these grains are in direct contact with chalcopyrite, providing support for gold distribution in porphyry copper systems being a result of exsolution from copper sulfides. HRXCT scanning (±digital radiography) precisely defines the in situ location of mineral grains of interest within a sample, which then can be studied in conventional petrographic sections, and other types of analytical studies conducted, e.g., gold trace element geochemistry.
The Criteria of Punishment: Some Neglected Considerations

Discussion concerning the meaning and analysis of “punishment” has centered, in large measure, on claims for a logical connection between “punishment” and “guilt.” However, more and more in the literature focus has shifted from guilt as the defining feature of “punishment” to guilt as only one of many constitutive conditions satisfaction of which is necessary for standard cases with allowance made for other correct, though secondary, uses of the term.
Measurement and monitoring of neuromuscular blockade.

Purpose of reviewFor more than three decades, ‘experts’ in the clinical pharmacology of neuromuscular blocking agents have advocated routine intraoperative use of peripheral nerve stimulators as monitors of neuromuscular function. This advice is far from universally honored in practice. In part, thi
Cell adhesion molecules: signalling functions at the synapse

Cell adhesion molecules localized at synapses do more than provide a physical link between pre and post-synaptic cells. Dalva and colleagues review the evidence for the roles of these molecules in synaptic development, and in the regulation of synaptic function. Many cell adhesion molecules are localized at synaptic sites in neuronal axons and dendrites. These molecules bridge pre- and postsynaptic specializations but do far more than simply provide a mechanical link between cells. In this review, we will discuss the roles these proteins have during development and at mature synapses. Synaptic adhesion proteins participate in the formation, maturation, function and plasticity of synaptic connections. Together with conventional synaptic transmission mechanisms, these molecules are an important element in the trans-cellular communication mediated by synapses.
The dynamics of tadpole and horseshoe orbits I. Theory

Abstract The properties of the tadpole and the horseshoe orbit solutions of both the circular and elliptic restricted three-body problem with small mass ratio are examined using analytical and numerical methods. We show how the trajectory of a particle in a near-circular orbits is critically dependent on the initial radial separation between the particle and satellite orbits. This separation can also be used to derive an approximation to the minimum particle-satellite distance. A useful relation between the shape of a particle's path in a reference frame in which the perturbing satellite is stationary and the shape of the particle's associated zero-velocity curve is presented. We also determine the circumstances in which horseshoe paths rather than the more common tadpole paths are to be expected. By numerical integration of a number of horseshoe orbits we have investigated the effects of changes in eccentricity and longitude of pericenter over repeated satellite encounters. Such changes will determine the long-term stability of particles in horseshoe orbits.
Progression of peripheral arterial disease predicts cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality.

Objectives The purpose of this study was to examine the association of progressive versus stable peripheral arterial disease (PAD) with the risk of future cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. Background An independent association between PAD, defined by low values of the ankle-brachial index (ABI), and future CVD risk has been demonstrated. However, the prognostic significance of declining versus stable ABI has not been studied. Methods We recruited 508 subjects (59 women, 449 men) from 2 hospital vascular laboratories in San Diego, California. ABI and CVD risk factors were measured at Visit 2 (1990 to 1994). ABI values from each subject's earliest vascular laboratory examination (Visit 1) were abstracted from medical records. Mortality and morbidity were tracked for 6 years after Visit 2 using vital statistics and hospitalization data. Results In multivariate models adjusted for CVD risk factors, very low ( Conclusions Progressive PAD (ABI decline >0.15) was significantly and independently associated with increased CVD risk. Patients with decreasing ABI may be candidates for more intensive cardiovascular risk factor management.
Streamflow Chemistry and Nutrient Yields from Upland‐Peatland Watersheds in Minnesota

Twenty-two water quality parameters were determined for the streamflow from complex but typical upland-peatland watersheds over a period of 5 yr. Five watersheds with oligotrophic peatlands and one with a minerotrophic peatland were studied. Concentrations of organically derived nutrients are highest in the streamflow from watersheds containing oligotrophic peatlands; while concentrations of nutrients derived from solution of aquifer minerals are higher in streamflow from the watershed containing a minerotrophic peatland. However, flow-weighted concentrations of organically derived nutrients are similar for both watersheds. Annual nutrient yields (kilogram/hectare per year) calculated for two of the tight uplandoligotrophic peatland watersheds are generally low and are quite similar to values for other forested areas in North America which do not contain peatlands.
Self-, other-, and ideal-judgments of risk and caution as a function of the five-factor model of personality

Abstract We predicted that four ‘Big Five’ personality dimensions—Openness, Agreeableness, Neuroticism, and Conscientiousness—would be related to participants’ responses to decisions in risky and cautious situations. Three hundred and five students completed the NEO PI-R [ Costa, P. T., & McCrae, R. (1992). Revised NEO Personality Inventory (NEO PI-R) and NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI): professional manual. Odessa, FL: Psychological Assessment Resources ]. They then made self-other-, and ideal-judgments on risky and cautious dilemmas [ Kogan, N. & Wallach, M. (1964). Risk-taking: a study in cognition and personality. New York: Holt, Rinehart and Winston ]. People high in Openness made more extreme self- and ideal-judgments on risky dilemmas. People high in Agreeableness made more extreme, socially valued judgments across risky and cautious dilemmas. People high in Conscientiousness made more extreme ideal judgments on cautious dilemmas. People high in Neuroticism made more extreme ideal-judgments on risky dilemmas. These findings suggest that personality influences people’s perceptions of risk and caution.
Contributions of myeloperoxidase to proinflammatory events: more than an antimicrobial system.

Optimal oxygen-dependent antimicrobial activity of circulating polymorphonuclear leukocytes reflects the synergistic effects of the myeloperoxidase (MPO)—hydrogen peroxide—halide system. Delivered from its storage compartment to the phagolysosome during fusion of the azurophilic granules, MPO catalyzes the oxidation of chloride in the presence of H2O2, chemistry unique to MPO, and thereby generates an array of highly reactive oxidants. Recent investigations of a wide range of inflammatory disorders have identified biochemical markers of MPO-dependent reactions, thus indirectly implicating MPO in their pathogenesis, progression, or perpetuation.The implied involvement of MPO-dependent events in diseases such as atherosclerosis forces reexamination of several fundamental tenets about MPO that are derived from studies of myeloid cells, most notably factors important in the regulated expression of MPO gene transcription. The evidence supporting a role for MPO in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system, and specific cancers is reviewed and some of the new questions raised by these studies are discussed. Lastly, an appreciation for the existence of a broad family of proteins structurally related to MPO and the functional diversity implied by the corresponding structures may provide insights into novel ways in which MPO can function as more than an important antimicrobial component.
Does the AHA/ACC task force grading system predict outcome in multivessel coronary angioplasty?

To assess the ACC/AHA task force grading system as a predictor of outcome in patients undergoing multivessel percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty we analyzed all failures (residual stenosis > 50%, Q-wave myocardial infarction, coronary artery bypass grafting during hospitalization, or death) in 97 patients with 328 stenoses. There were 70 males and 27 females; 60 patients had stable angina, and 37 had unstable angina. The mean number of lesions dilated per patient was 3.4 (range 2-8). The mean preangioplasty percent luminal diameter narrowing was 80 +/- 14%. Thirty-eight stenoses were AHA/ACC classification type A, 192 type B, and 98 type C. One hundred twenty-eight lesions were located in the left anterior descending artery or its distribution, 89 in the left circumflex, 96 in the right coronary artery, and 15 in other vessels. Procedural success ( 3 months, followed by total occlusion 90 degrees) segment.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Otolaryngology Resident Selection Do Rank Lists Matter

Objectives. To examine the relationship between National Residency Matching Program (NRMP) rank list position and future otolaryngology residency performance.Study Design. Cohort study.Methods. Eight consecutive residency classes (starting 2001-2008; 4 residents/y) were reviewed. Three hundred and thirty-three applicants (40.6 applicants/y) were interviewed, and 316 (94.9%) were ranked. Residents matching with our program were divided 3 different ways: into quarters, thirds, and halves, based on their rank order. Correlation coefficients were obtained to compare resident rank number and rank group (quarter, third, half) to faculty evaluation, coresident evaluation, and in-service score. Chi-square tests were conducted comparing rank group to chief resident selection and annual teaching award.Results. Resident NRMP rank number was not significantly correlated with faculty evaluation, coresident evaluation, or in-service exam score (−0.21 .28). There was also no significant correlation betwe...
A Revision of the Genus Pholeomyia in North America (Diptera, Milichiidae)

The biology of the Milichiidae is briefly summarized, and observations are reported on association of certain Pholeomyia species with attine ants. Sixteen species are recognized and keyed; some of these are known presently only from Neotropical areas such as the West Indies, Mexico, and parts of Central America. New species described are Pholeomyia latifrons (Bahamas), P. poli , tifacies (W. Indies, Mexico to Brazil), P. hurdi (Mexico)- P. nitidula (Georgia), P. dampfi (Central America), and P. texensis (Texas). Brief diagnoses are given of the other 10 species, their distribution is summarized, and numerous earlier misidentifications are corrected.
Heavy ion radiolysis of liquid pyridine.

The radiation chemical yields of the main products produced in liquid pyridine radiolysis (molecular hydrogen and dipyridyl) have been examined as a function of particle linear energy transfer (LET) with protons, helium ions, and carbon ions of a few to 30 MeV and compared to γ-radiolysis published in a previous work (J. Phys. Chem. A 2005, 109, 461). Anthracene and biphenyl scavenging techniques have been used to clarify the role of the triplet excited state. An increase in triplet scavenger concentration leads to a decrease in pyridine triplet excited state with a concurrent decrease in dipyridyl, but formation of the latter does not primarily involve pyridyl radicals expected to be produced in the decomposition of the triplet excited state. A decrease in the yield of dipyridyl and an increase in molecular hydrogen are observed with increasing track average LET. The dipyridyl yield with 10 MeV carbon ions is 0.20 molecules/100 eV, which is only 16% of that of observed with γ-rays. The low yield of dipyr...
avpr1a length polymorphism is not associated with either social or genetic monogamy in free-living prairie voles

Recent discoveries of single-gene influences on social behaviour have generated a great deal of interest in the proximate mechanisms underlying the expression of complex behaviours. Length polymorphism in a microsatellite in the regulatory region of the gene encoding the vasopressin 1a receptor (avpr1a) has been associated with both inter- and intra-specific variation in socially monogamous behaviour in voles (genus Microtus) under laboratory conditions. Here, we evaluate the relationship between avpr1a length polymorphism and social associations, genetic monogamy and reproductive success in free-living prairie vole, M. ochrogaster, populations. We found no evidence of a relationship between avpr1a microsatellite length and any of our correlates of either social or genetic monogamy in the field. Our results, especially when taken in conjunction with those of recent experimental studies in seminatural enclosures, suggest that avpr1a polymorphism is unlikely to have been a major influence in the evolution or maintenance of social monogamy in prairie voles under natural conditions.
Algorithms Used in Heterogeneous Dose Calculations Show Systematic Differences as Measured With the Radiological Physics Center's Anthropomorphic Thorax Phantom Used for RTOG Credentialing

Purpose To determine the impact of treatment planning algorithm on the accuracy of heterogeneous dose calculations in the Radiological Physics Center (RPC) thorax phantom. Methods and Materials We retrospectively analyzed the results of 304 irradiations of the RPC thorax phantom at 221 different institutions as part of credentialing for Radiation Therapy Oncology Group clinical trials; the irradiations were all done using 6-MV beams. Treatment plans included those for intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) as well as 3-dimensional conformal therapy (3D-CRT). Heterogeneous plans were developed using Monte Carlo (MC), convolution/superposition (CS), and the anisotropic analytic algorithm (AAA), as well as pencil beam (PB) algorithms. For each plan and delivery, the absolute dose measured in the center of a lung target was compared to the calculated dose, as was the planar dose in 3 orthogonal planes. The difference between measured and calculated dose was examined as a function of planning algorithm as well as use of IMRT. Results PB algorithms overestimated the dose delivered to the center of the target by 4.9% on average. Surprisingly, CS algorithms and AAA also showed a systematic overestimation of the dose to the center of the target, by 3.7% on average. In contrast, the MC algorithm dose calculations agreed with measurement within 0.6% on average. There was no difference observed between IMRT and 3D CRT calculation accuracy. Conclusion Unexpectedly, advanced treatment planning systems (those using CS and AAA algorithms) overestimated the dose that was delivered to the lung target. This issue requires attention in terms of heterogeneity calculations and potentially in terms of clinical practice.
Stress and deformation heterogeneity in individual grains within polycrystals subjected to fully reversed cyclic loading

Abstract The influence of spatial variability of the crystal stresses on the evolution of intragrain lattice misorientations during cyclic loading of a polycrystalline copper alloy is examined using a combination of simulation and experiment. The experiments consist of measuring the mechanical responses of deforming individual crystals using high-energy x-ray diffraction and in situ mechanical loading. The simulations employ a crystal-based finite element formulation which is used to compute stress distributions and lattice reorientations in virtual polycrystals subjected to the same loading history. The hybrid methodology produces a picture of the evolving microstructural state during cyclic plasticity. For four target grains, comparisons are made between the diffracted peak intensity distributions as recorded by the experimental detector and those computed from simulation using a virtual diffractometer. Based on the comparisons, a relationship is presented between intragrain lattice misorientations and broadening of the diffraction peaks from individual grains. Stress triaxiality within grains is examined and regions with positive triaxiality throughout the tension/compression loading history are identified as potential locations for void growth.
Bleomycin-induced life prolongation of mice infected with Trypanosoma brucei brucei EATRO 110

Abstract The antitumour antibiotic bleomycin, supplied as commercial Blenoxane R (a mixture of bleomycinic acids), at 7 or 14 mg/kg prolonged life > 30 days beyond death of controls without relapse or sign of trypanosomes in the peripheral blood of mice infected with Trypanosoma b. brucei EATRO 110. Control mice died in three to four days. The purified A 2 and B 2 bleomycin congeners were also active at this dose. Spermidine, spermine and hirudonine (1,8-diamidinospermidine) but not putrescine, co-administered with drug, annulled the curative effects of these compounds, as signalled by appearance of trypanosomes in the blood and death of the animals.
Characterization of a Rapid and Sensitive Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) for Progesterone Applied to Conditioned Cell Culture Media

Abstract Progesterone accumulation in conditioned media is a frequently employed endpoint for in vitro cell culture of steroidogenic cells. Although radioimmunoassay (RIA) has been the predominant method for measurement of progesterone, a number of nonradiometric immunoassays have been described but they have not been applied to conditioned media. Here, we report the characterization of a microtitre plate enzyme immunoassay (EIA) for determination of progesterone in conditioned media. The EIA has a sensitivity of 0.3 pg per well with intraassay and interassay coefficients of variation of 7.3 and 10.2%, respectively. The specificity of the EIA is no different than that of a comparable RIA showing crossreactivities of less than 0.1% for other steroids except 5α-pregnan-3, 20-dione (47%) and 11α-hydroxyprogesterone (18%). Progesterone levels from conditioned cell culture media of either rat or human granulosa cell cultures measured by both EIA and RIA were in close agreement (r = 0.96) and serial dilutions o...
Systems planning in physical distribution: a pre‐production application

The justification for integrated management is known and accepted among most management scholars. Physical distribution offers a unique opportunity for instituting a systems approach to functional areas of the firm. Its three sub‐functional areas of purchasing, transportation and storage incorporate great opportunity for cost trade offs.
The Effect of Magnetic Resonance Imagers on Implanted Neurostimulators

This in-vitro study was designed to investigate the safety of various implanted neurostimulators in magnetic resonance (MR) imagers. The effects of the static and changing magnetic fields and the radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic field generated by 0.35 and 2.5 T MR imagers on the voltage output of four models of implantable passive neurostimulafors and two models of implantable self-powered neurostimulators was studied. The neurostimulators were mounted on a support and placed in the imagers. An oscilloscope monitored the voltages at the outputs of the neurostimulators. For an A very single-channel stimulator, located at the isocenter, the amplitude of the output pulses induced by the 0.35 T imager was 6V; from a 1.5 T imager, it was 12 V. These amplitudes can cause discomfort and possible harm to a patient if the typical therapeutic value is 1–5 V. The amplitude of the stimulator receiver's output decreased to relatively safe values beyond 40 cm from the isocenter. By contrast, there was no significant voltage output from the Medtronic SE-4 receiver. For two models of self-powered neurostimulators, the Medtronic Itrel and the Cordis MK If, the programmed stimulus parameters were not affected by the pulsed magnetic fields of the MR imagers. However, the RF fields at the isocenter heated the metal case of the stimulators. The rotational and linear forces produced by the fixed magnet on the Cordis MK II were judged to be too strong for a patient with this implant to be scanned. The study showed that patients with certain types of implanted neurostimulators can be scanned safely under certain conditions.
Discontinuation of long-term clopidogrel therapy is associated with death and myocardial infarction after saphenous vein graft percutaneous coronary intervention

Objectives This study sought to examine the pattern of death and myocardial infarction (MI) after clopidogrel cessation in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of the saphenous vein graft (SVG). Background The timing and incidence of adverse events by different durations of clopidogrel therapy after SVG PCI remain unknown. Methods This is a cohort study of patients undergoing SVG PCI between 2000 and 2009, followed for all-cause mortality or MI after stopping clopidogrel. Incidence rates were calculated across different time periods after clopidogrel cessation. Adjusted incidence rate ratios (IRR) were calculated with multivariable regression (piecewise exponential and Poisson). Results There were 603 patients who underwent SVG PCI, of which 411 were event-free at the time of clopidogrel cessation. The incidence rate (95% confidence interval: [CI])/1,000 person-days of death or MI after stopping clopidogrel in the time intervals of 0 to 90 days, 91 to 365 days, and 1 to 2 years were 1.26 (95% CI: 0.93 to 1.70), 0.41 (95% CI: 0.30 to 0.56), and 0.41 (95% CI: 0.30 to 0.55), respectively. In multivariable analyses, the overall IRR (95% CI) for death or MI in the 0- to 90-day interval after stopping clopidogrel compared with the 91- to 365-day interval was 2.58 (95% CI: 1.64 to 4.07). Similar results were observed over a broad range of clopidogrel treatment durations ( 2 years). The results were also consistent across subgroups, including sex, stent type, stent diameter, PCI period, and diabetes status. When death alone was evaluated, there remained a significant increase in the event rate in the 0- to 90-day interval compared with the 91- to 365-day interval (IRR: 2.33; 95% CI: 1.32 to 4.11). Conclusions A clustering of events was observed in the initial 0 to 90 days after clopidogrel cessation in all treatment durations of clopidogrel investigated after SVG PCI. These results might have important implications in high-risk cohorts undergoing PCI. Additional studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the early clustering of events after clopidogrel cessation.
Prognosis in Dissecting Aneurysm of the Aorta

Of 26 patients with dissecting aneurysm of the aorta diagnosed at the Henry Ford Hospital from 1950 through 1962, 13 patients lived less than six weeks from the time of initial diagnosis. Of the ot...
Emerging Subspecialties in Neurology: Neuroimmunology

Autoimmune and immune-mediated mechanisms are increasingly appreciated in many neurologic diseases. The goal of fellowship training is to develop an understanding of the pathophysiology and treatment of these diseases with a focus on immunology that is not traditionally afforded to most trainees during residency or fellowship. Neuroimmunology is an expanding subspecialty with rapidly emerging developments from the clinical and basic sciences necessitating frequent change in clinical practice. Historically, the first international congress of neuroimmunology was held in 1982, with the actual founding of the International Society of Neuroimmunology not occurring until after the second international congress in 1987. The origins of neuroimmunology, however, pre-date the establishment of the society by nearly a century, and modern clinical neuroimmunology has its roots in the interdisciplinary collaboration of neurologists, pathologists, internists, and other specialists in the early 1950s. The field of neuroimmunology intersects many traditional neurology subspecialties, including diseases within epilepsy, movement disorders, neuromuscular, autonomic neurology, neuro-oncology, behavioral neurology, degenerative disorders, and demyelinating diseases. The author thanks Theresa O’Brien for reviewing an earlier version of this manuscript.
pH Dependence of Complex Formation Between Condensed Tannins and Proteins

The interaction between condensed grape tannins and some proteins was studied turbidimetrically. Tannins precipitated protein efficiently at pH values up to the isoelectric point of the individual protein. At slightly higher pH values there was a sharp decrease in complex formation. This “critical pH” was usually observed within approximately 0.5 pH unit of the isoelectric point. A close correlation (r = 0.96) was obtained between the isoelectric point and the critical pH of proteins. The effects of pH and ionic strength on turbidity formation by tannins and bovine serum albumin showed that an increasing salt concentration tended to increase turbidity at pH 3, but it had no significant effect at pH 4. In contrast at pH 5 high salt concentration tended to decrease turbidity. Employing an ultrafiltration technique, the binding behavior of interacting tannin and protein was described by a typical Brunauer type II adsorption curve.